March 3, 2018 by Nagaland Post

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXVIII No. 85

SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018 Pages 12 ` 5.00

India one of the ‘most open’ economies: Prabhu

Man City close in on EPL title

Israeli police grill Netanyahu in telecoms corruption case

business, Page 8

sports, Page 12

international, Page 9

Counting of votes today

KO H I M A / AG A RTA LA/SHILLONG, MAR 2 (AGENCIES/NPN): Counting of votes for the Assembly elections in three North Eastern states-- Nagaland, Meghalaya and Tripura, will be held on Saturday from 8 a.m. amid tight security, officials said. While Tripura went to the polls on 18 February, elections were held in Nagaland and Meghalaya on 27 February. Though the strength of each of the Assemblies in the three states is 60 members, voting was held for 59 constituencies in all of them, for different reasons. While a CPM candidate died in Tripura, a Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) candidate was killed in Meghalaya, which resulted in countermanding of the polls in one seat each in the two states. In Nagaland, NDPP CM candidate, Neiphiu Rio was declared elected unopposed. Balloting in the Charilam (reserved for the tribals) has been deferred to March 12 after the death of a CPI-M candidate. BJP has emerged as a strong contender in all the three states and two exit

NPF still in alliance with BJP: Apong DIMAPUR, MAR 2 (NPN): The ruling Naga People’s Front (NPF) on Friday categorically clarified that it was still having an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a statement, NPF working president Apong Pongener referred to resolution no. 1 taken by party’s central executive committee (CEC) on January 23 this year, which states “... considering the urgency to create congenial atmosphere for the ongoing political dialogue between the Government of India and Naga national workers (NSCN I-M/NNPGs) for political solution, the Central Executive Council considered it necessary to review the matter and resolved to maintain the earlier status of having alliance with BJP”. Stating that rumours circulated by certain vested interests in social media had created doubts and misgivings in people’s minds about the actual status of NPF’s relation with DAN partners involving BJP, JD (U) and NPP now, Pongener hoped the clarification would put to rest all doubts and confusion on the matter.

This is it!

“Bhaiti, new Naga MLAs will form government. We can expect one faction to come here again.” K Y M C

Meghalaya

Seats 59

Congress NPP BJP Others

Tripura

BATTLE OF BALLOTS Results Today

Nagaland

Seats 59

NPF NDPP-BJP Congress Others

CPI(M) BJP-IPFT Congress Others

is contesting on 40 seats and the saffron party on 20. The Congress, which has given three chief ministers to Nagaland since the state’s inception in 1963, is contesting only in 18 seats, two less than the BJP. In Nagaland, 349 tables in 17 centres across the state would be set up for counting, chief electoral officer (CEO), Abhijit Sinha, said. Votes would be counted in presence of the candidates and agents under the supervision of the respective district returning officers and assistant returning officers, state Additional CEO N Moa Aier told PTI. Meghalaya chief electoral officer FR Kharkongor said a three-tier security arrangement has been made at all the 13 counting centres and 11 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed here for the counting process. “Adequate security measures have been made for the counting centres. Counting halls were also ready. General observers and police observers were appointed for all the counting halls,” Addl. Chief Electoral Officer of Tripura Tapas Ray said.

10 Maoists, elite force personnel killed in C’garh RAIPUR, MAR 2 (PTI): At least 10 Maoists, including six women, were killed Friday when Telangana Police’s Greyhounds swooped on a Naxal camp in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district in an early morning operation in which a personnel of the elite force also lost his life, officials said. Police suspect that there could be senior cadre members among the Naxals killed. “Ten Maoists were killed in the encounter. Screening of the bodies is going on to identify the deceased,” Ambar Kishor Jha, SP of Telangana’s Bhadradri Kothagudem district, told PTI. “Susheel Kumar, a junior commando of the Greyhounds, lost his life,” he said. Six women were among the ultras killed in the operation which took place around 6.30 AM, the SP said. Chhattisgarh Police has identified two of the dead Naxals as Sanjeev, a “deputy commander”, and a woman named Pedda Budri. Both were part of the protection team of Hari Bhushan, secretary of the Maoists’ Telangana state committee, DIG, Sundarraj P said.

73.05 per cent votes cast in re-poll Correspondents

KOHIMA/KIPHIRE/DIMAPUR, MAR 2 (NPN): Re-polling at 12 polling stations and fresh polling at one across seven districts of Nagaland passed off peacefully on Friday, with the voting percentage being pegged at 73.05%. According to sources in chief electoral officer’s (CEO) office, out of 7,841 total voters, 5,728 cast their franchise vote in 13 polling stations. Re-polling at 12 polling stations and fresh poll at one was ordered by Election Commission of India (ECI) and held between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Friday. Voting percentages in the re-polling at 12 polling stations constituencywise were 71.94% in 7 Peren (polling station no.15 Samzuiram), 68.67% in 9 Kohima Town (polling station no. 29), 80.59% in 17 Chizami (polling station no. 1), 80.09% in 17 Chizami (polling station no. 10), 89.25% in 19 Phek (polling station no. 9), 81.03% in 19 Phek (polling station no. 25), 82.41% in 20 Meluri (polling station no.1), 81.96% in 41 Tizit (polling station no. 13), 61.94% in

(From top) Voters stand in queue to cast their ballots at 29- AG colony upper -1, Kohima and Samzuiram ‘A’ sector in Peren.

52 Longkhim-Chare (polling station no. 3), 82.54% in 52 Longkhim-Chare (polling station no. 9), 54.26% in 60 Pungro-Kiphire (polling station no. 19) and 90.76 % in 60 Pungro-Kiphire (polling station no. 25). The fresh poll at polling station no. 1 under 49 Tamlu constituency recorded 83.24% voting percentage. Out of 967 voters, only 664 (68.67 %) cast their ballot at polling station no. 29 (AG Colony Upper-1) at Kohima under 9 Kohima

Town constituency under heavy security, including representatives of Kohima Village Youth Organisation (KVYO) and quick response team (QRT) of Kohima village, assisted the security forces in the smooth conduct of the re-poll. Members of Tsiepfütsiepfhe Youth Organisation, AG Colony, ward 15, along with polling officers, screened every voter standing in queue at the polling station.

Realignment of political forces on the cards Ahead of counting, Rijiju sees

Sec. 144 CrPC imposed in Zunheboto town

polls have predicted that the party would dethrone the 25-year-old Left Front government in Tripura and consolidate its position in the other two states. While the Congress has been ruling Meghalaya for 10 years, the NFP has been in power in Nagaland since 2003, except for a threemonth period of President’s rule in 2008. Buoyed by the formation of governments in Assam, Manipur and Ar-

unachal Pradesh, the BJP is making a bid to expand its footprints in the region. In Meghalaya, the Congress fielded 59 candidates, while the BJP put up nominees in 47 constituencies. For the first time, Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma is contesting from two seats. In Nagaland, the BJP has joined hands with the NDPP that was floated by former chief minister Neiphiu Rio. The NDPP

Correspondent KOHIMA, MAR 2 (NPN): With less than 12 hours remaining for declaration of the just-concluded Assembly election, there is realignment of political forces in Nagaland. Although Nagaland unit of JD (U) had decided to contest the Assembly election alone, the party informed that it had entered into an alliance with the NPF. On February 14, chief minister T.R. Zeliang had informed media persons that NPF was to sign an agreement with the JD (U). However, on February 15, JD (U) refuted Zeliang’s claim and denied any alliance with any party before the polls. According to NPF, the JD (U) later signed an agreement forging an alliance with the NPF on February 17 as a “prelude to post-poll alliance”. State JD (U) president NSN Lotha informed Nagaland Post that the party earlier had a “prepoll understanding on February 17 for a post poll alliance” after which the matter was endorsed by its central authority. He said

the two parties would come to an understanding and that there was no reason why the two could not have post poll alliance. Meanwhile, in another significant development, there were reports that BJP (currently an ally of NDPP) may cosy up to NPF after Assembly election result is announced on March 3, though NPF president Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu was very vocal against the saffron party throughout the election campaign. Highly placed sources informed this correspondent that BJP might align with NPF, if the latter emerged victorious as the single largest party. However, a senior BJP member refuted such reports and made it known that its alliance with the NDPP will continue. The member exuded confidence that NDPP-BJP alliance will be forming the next government in Nagaland. NPF’s chief ministerial candidate TR Zeliang had earlier openly announced in February that BJP had not severed its alliance with NPF though the former had officially entered into a pre-

poll alliance with NDPP. He had also said that the door for BJP was open. Meanwhile, in an interview with The Indian Express on Friday, chief minister T.R. Zeliang predicted “minimum 27” seats for the NPF alone. He asserted that NPF would be forming the next government with the NPP and JD (U). Zeliang said even as the NPF continues to have a cordial relationship with the BJP, it is up to BJP to decide whether they will continue the alliance with NPF. On the other hand, NPF president Dr. Shürhouzelie Liezietsu, a hardcore regionalist, has been known to be averse to BJP, but Zeliang assured that the veteran leader would not stand in the way of a NPF-BJP coalition. Zeliang further observed that NPF expected to do much better but before the election, many floor crossings had taken place. “Whoever didn’t get NPF ticket crossed over to other parties, so strategically there are some change. But only good people are remaining with NPF now.”

‘new political landscape’ in NE

NEW DELHI, MAR 2 (AGENCIS): A day before results for assembly elections to Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura are announced, union minister Kiren Rijiju says he is confident that the BJP will expand its footprint in the North East. Concurring with two exit polls that have predicted an end to the 25-year-old Left rule in Tripura, Rijiju told NDTV, “We will wrest Tripura from the Left Front. Our internal assessment is that we will win at least 36 to 42 seats”. Rijiju said the BJP would form the next government in Nagaland where elections were held against the backdrop of ongoing peace talks between the centre and NSCN (I-M), the framework agreement of which was signed in 2015. “We need a govt that can facilitate the implementation of the Naga accord, when and if it is signed. It’s very important that BJP remains a part and parcel

of the next government (in Nagaland),” he said. In Nagaland, the BJP contested 20 seats, leaving the remaining 40 seats to its ally Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party or NDPP that’s headed by former chief minister Neiphiu Rio. “NDPP-BJP will go beyond 30 seats. There are some smaller parties which has given some kind of support to us. I have already spoken to some of them. They will also come with us,” Rijiju said. Claiming that the BJP will set a “new political landscape” in the Northeast, Rijiju said the Congress will lose Meghalaya, one of the two North Eastern states where it is in power, down from the five it ruled when Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in 2014. The BJP has contested 47 of the 60 seats this time but Rijiju says “along with like-minded political parties, we will be able to cobble up a stable government in Meghalaya”.

(Cont’d on p-7)

DIMAPUR, MAR 2 (NPN): Zunheboto deputy commissioner & district magistrate (DC &DM) Tridibesh Roy has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC in Zunheboto town on Friday in order to maintain public peace and tranquillity. Accordingly, assembly of five or more persons and carrying of arms in Zunheboto town area have been prohibited. Further, the DC has also imposed prohibition on opening of shops and commercial establishments, including banks, in the town area from 6 am on Saturday till further orders. Essential services like pharmacies, hospitals and petrol pumps have been exempted from the purview of the restrictions.

Rival parties confident of forming govt in Tripura, M’laya BJP candidate KL Chishi Correspondent/IANS

SHILLONG/AGARTALA, MAR 2: Ahead of the vote count in the bitterly fought assembly polls in Meghalaya and Tripura, both the ruling Congress (in Meghalaya) and CPI-M (in Tripura) have voiced confidence of forming the government in their state. The BJP was also confident to oust the 25-yearold CPI (M) led government in Tripura. On the other hand National People’s Party (NPP), which is in the opposition in the state, has claimed that the ruling Congress will be rejected by the people of Meghalaya. Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma said that the Congress will retain power in Meghalaya. “The people of Meghalaya have full confidence on the Congress party. We (Congress) are eagerly waiting to serve the people. We

will cross the magic number,” he said. The BJP, which drew blank in 2013 assembly elections, is hopeful to win 8 to 12 seats. “We are expecting to win between 8-12 seats. A non-Congress government will be installed in Meghalaya in the next few days,” State BJP chief, Shibun Lyngdoh said. BJP insiders said that “top BJP leaders are already in touch with like-minded parties to form a non-Congress government.” NPP president Conrad K. Sangma maintained that the party will emerge as the single largest party in the 60 member Meghalaya assembly. “We will lead the government with like-minded political parties,” Conrad said. The combined regional alliance comprising UDP, HSPDP and Garo National

Council also was gung-ho about electoral victory. “The regional alliance will get around 20 seats. We will be working with likeminded political parties to provide better governance to the people. Consultation and confabulation are already on,” senior UDP legislator, Paul Lyngdoh said. The fate of 361 candidates, including 31 women candidates vying for the 60 member Meghalaya assembly will decided on Saturday by 15,50,951 out of 18, 09, 818 electorates exercised their franchise in 3,025 polling stations on Tuesday. Polling in Williamnagar constituency was countermanded following the death of NCP candidate Jonathone Sangma in an IED blast in Sawilgre area of East Garo Hills district on February 18. However, the election commission is yet to fix the

date to conduct polling to the Williamnagar assembly seat. In Tripura, both the ruling CPI-M-led Left Front and the opposition BJP sounded optimistic about forming the next government in Tripura as officials prepared for Saturday’s counting of votes cast in the February 18 assembly elections. Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Tripura state secretary, Bijan Dhar said the Left parties were “overconfident” of forming the next state government. “There is no doubt that the eighth Left Front government would be formed after the counting of votes on Saturday. People of Tripura voted for the Left parties on February 18 for peace and steady development in the state,” said Dhar. BJP Tripura unit president, Biplab Kumar Deb

said: “People want change. People strongly wish for a BJP government in Tripura. It is certain that the BJP will form the next government in Tripura.” Additional Chief Electoral Officer Tapas Roy told IANS that 59 counting halls would be set up 20 locations across Tripura to count votes simultaneously of all the 59 assembly constituencies. He said that metal detectors and six CCTVs in each counting hall would be installed while videography would be done to record the entire counting process. First the postal ballot would be counted and the votes of EVMs. Prohibitory orders 144 Cr Pc has been promulgated in and around the all 20 counting places as precautionary measures. ECI has appointed 27 general observers to oversee the counting process.

alleges rigging at Rotomi

DIMAPUR, MAR 2 (NPN): For mer chief minister K.L. Chishi who is BJP candidate of 32 Atoizu Assembly Constituency has appealed to the District Election Officer (DEO) Zunheboto to exclude votes cast under four polling stations at Rotomi on the ground of alleged booth capturing and rigging on polling day on February 27,2018. In his complaint letter, Chishi accused members of some prominent organizations of manhandling and preventing him from entering the polling stations at Roto Old 1 & 2 and Roto New 1 & 2 on polling day. On the other hand, Chishi also claimed that the rival candidate was allowed inside the polling booth and also allegedly voted thrice. He requested the

DEO to scrutinize CCTV footage as evidence of the alleged malpractice. To buttress his allegation, Chishi submitted photocopies of nine individuals whose names were enrolled twice under different households. Chishi in his letter informed the DEO that he was making the appeal on his behalf and on behalf of the BJP party and all the supporters. Multiple entry of voters in the lists were reported from various places especially where constituencies were close to each other. The modus operandi was to have different photos with almost similar name or same name in two constituencies. Various observers have also lamented that such cases are not rare but prevalent in several constituencies across the state. K Y M C

state

Governor celebrates Holi festival at Raj Bhavan

Governor PB Acharya lights the inaugural lamp of the Holi Milan at Gorkha Public Panchayat Complex, Chandmari, Kohima on Friday. DIMAPUR: Governor of Nagaland, P.B. Acharya and his wife, Kavita Acharya, celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, on Friday with all the officers and staff of the Raj Bhavan secretariat and their families at Raj Bhavan Kohima. A press release by PRO to Governor informed that the Acharya and his wife extended Holi greetings and had breakfast with all those assembled during the occasion. The couple interacted

with the children, families and staff and had pictures taken with them. They also wished the staff and their families’ good health and happiness. On the occasion, the Governor also prayed for peace, harmony, progress and prosperity in the State. The release informed that the celebration was also attended by Vivela Club members from Kohima. Earlier, the governor

attended the Holi Milan at Gorkha Public Panchayat Complex, Chandmari, Kohima Addressing the gathering, Acharya said that India was a democratic country and unity in diversity was the peculiarity of the country. He stated that Holi festival strengthens fraternity and togetherness amongst the people and spreads peace, prosperity in the society. The gover nor also

called upon all to build a New India which was “prosperous, strong and free of communalism, casteism and terrorism” under the leadership of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. He then said, “Be proud that we are Indians”. The Hoil Milan was organised by the Hindu Samaj Kohima. The programme was also attended by DGP, Nagaland Police, Rupin Sharma and additional PCCF, Ved Pal Singh.

Dmu celebrates festival of colours

Pughoboto EAC & EVM Nodal Officer informs

People celebrating Holi at Marwaripatti on Friday. (NP)

Staff Reporter

D I M A P U R , M ar 2 (NPN): With enthusiasm and gaiety, Holi, the festival of colours, was celebrated Friday, in and around Dimapur with people stained with powdered and water colours from head to toe, as well as dancing to the rhythm of music and singing with musical instruments like dholak, kirtal etc. The festival is celebrat-

ed every year in the month of Falgun (March) where young and old, gather on the streets to smear each other with coloured powder also known as “Gulal” in a replication of the arrival of spring with natural beauties and varied colours. At various junctions, children were seen throwing water filled balloons and using water missiles called “Pichkaris” to drench others from afar and try to

escape getting themselves drenched. In the midst of the colourful festival, they also enjoy savouring special sweets typical of the festival including gujhiya, mithai, papad, halwa, pani puri, dahi bade etc. Generally, people celebrate holi for a whole day during which they visit friends and welcome each other with lots of tasty foods and sweets.

PWD Rental Housing Campus celebrated Holi the festival of colours on Friday. K

Dimapur: EAC & EVM Nodal Officer Pughoboto Nuhuta Tunyi has informed that in accordance of the ECI, counting of votes for Nagaland Legislative Assembly 2018 under13 Pughoboto A/C will be conducted on March 3 from 8.00 AM onwards. According to a DIPR report, the Strong Rooms housing all the 33 polled EVMs and VVPATs machines, Postal Ballots, etc. will be opened at 7.45 a.m. in the presence of the General Observer, Pughoboto A/C. The report informed that the candidates had been intimated to send their respective representatives to be present for the opening of the Strong Room at 7.45 AM. Failing to arrive at the appointed time, the Strong Rooms will be opened in accordance to laid down rules of the ECI, the report stated.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

Bravo School of Music inaugurated at Wokha Correspondent

WOKHA, MAR 2 (NPN): Bravo School of Music (BSM) Wokha was inaugurated Friday here at Wokha Village Wothok Ki (Near Police Point), Wokha town with 7th NAP deputy commandant Mhalo Lotha as chief guest. Speaking at the inaugural function, Mrs Mhalo likened BSM Wokha’s managing director David to the Biblical David saying both were music enthusiasts and hoped that just like the Biblical David was able to chase away the demons disturbing King Saul, BSM Wokha’s David would also prove to be a torch bearer for the musically inclined youth of the district and beyond in advancing God’s ministry through music and go on to produce exceptional musical talents comparable with the best in the world. Expressing apprehensions about many start-ups and business establishments coming up in Wokha but failing after a year or two due to lack of enthusiasm and inspiration, the chief guest however hoped that BSM Wokha would continue with vigour as heard and witnessed from the vision laid out by BSM Wokha’s managing director. Earlier, LBES youth secretary Jenibemo Kithan read from the scripture before offering dedicatory prayer for BSM Wokha. Ts u n g i k i B a p t i s t Church (TBC) pastor Rev. R. Lotha said invocation, BSM Wokha managing director R. David Ngullie

delivered welcome address, BSM Wokha faculty member R. Wonjano Ngullie enthralled the gathering with a strong vocal rendition, TBC associate pastor T. Mhao Kikon pronounced benediction, and TBC women leader Tumchobeni Ngullie dedicated the refreshment at the short inaugural function chaired by Ovungbemo Ngullie. Dubbed ‘A Place For All Music Lovers’, BSM Wokha is located ideally at the centre of town at Wokha Village Wothok Ki (Near Police Point, Wokha Town) with dedicated faculties including managing director R. David Ngullie, vocal and theory mentor R. Wonjano Ngullie, violin mentor Albert Shitiri, piano mentor Thungjam Ngullie, drums and guitars mentor Yannithung Enni, and visiting vocal teacher R. Thunglamo Ngullie. BSM Wokha with the motto ‘Let The Music Speak’ offers courses including vocals, piano, guitars, drums, violin, and fundamentals of music theory and will give students the opportunity to sit for exams under 3 prestigious boards including the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music (ABRSM), London (UK), Trinity College of Music, London and Rock School, London. Classes at BSM Wokha are expected to start by 3rd week of March, 2018 and one can contact following phone numbers for more details: 8014-478843/7005-36-5571/700559-0350.

news in Brief GPRN/NSCN recovers: GPRN/NSCN Naga Army has recovered an unregistered two-wheeler Scooty Hero Maestro (white), chasis number – AAW.JF-33AAG, engine number – GG27356. Rightful owner has been asked to contact at 8837265696 and claim the same within three days. ANPWDFWA (R&B), Housing & NH general meeting: All Nagaland PWD Field Workers’ Association (ANPWDFWA) Housing & National Highways (NH) has convened a general meeting on March 14, 10 a.m. at Tourist Lodge Dimapur near Old NST Dimapur. All the unit presidents, secretaries along with advisors have been asked to attend the meeting. Stern action will be taken if any unit office bearers fail to attend the meeting. It further informed that all the expenses of the meeting will be borne by the unit fund. DoSE additional director informs SDEOs: Directorate of School Education (DoSE) additional director, Pollem Tep has informed all the SDEOs to collect the “Free Text Books” for the current academic year from Dimapur godown on March 6 and 7. Lost and found: Money found at Land Mark Colony, Dimapur by Tonoko and Tokupu. Rightful owner may claim the same by calling at 9077-24-4406 or 9856-40-7604.

AR nabs NSCN (I-M) cadre

Dimapur: Based on specific information, Kiphire Battalion of Assam Rifles, under the aegis of HQ IGAR (N) established a mobile check post alongwith a police representative in general area Phuvkiu – Pungro road on March 1. In a report AR said during the search of suspected vehicles, its troops apprehended an individual in possession of illegal arms and ammunition including one auto .22 mm pistol (country made), one magazine, sixteen live rounds, two mobile phones (Nokia & Micromax) and one motorcycle (Yamaha) with registration No NL01E-2504. The apprehended individual was identified as

The accused under custody.

“self styled Rajapeya”, Tomomusu Yimchunger, NSCN (I-M), aged 55 years, s/o late Rusumew Yimchunger, a resident of Phuvkiu village under PS/ PO Pungro, Kiphire district. The accused alongwith recovered items was handed over to Pungro police station for further investigation, the report stated.

Abiogenesis and NE artistes perform in Bhutan DImapur: Abiogenesis along with selected artistes from North East performed at Thimpu, Trongsa and Gedu in Bhutan to commemorate 50 years of Bhutan/India Diplomatic Relations. The first show was held at the Royal University of Bhutan on February 24 in presence of Indian Ambassador to Bhutan, Jaideep Sarkar, along with some cabinet ministers of Bhutan. The second was held at the College of Language & Cultural Studies in Taltse, Trongsa, the third at the Indian Dam Construction Camp in Trongsa and Culminated at the Gedu College of Business Studies at Gedu in presence of Shri. Pieyush Guptam, Indian Consul General to Bhutan, Phuentsholing. The colourful and vibrant culture of North East India was articulated through the Bamboo Dance of Mizoram, Folk and Martial Arts of Manipur, Bihu dance of As-

Abiogenesis members outside University Hall in Thimpu before their performance.

sam, Acrobatic Hozagiri Dance of Tripura, Songs of Arunachal Pradesh and Folk Music of Meghalaya. The modern section was showcased through Naga Howeymusic by Abiogen-

esis of Nagaland and Western Music by Bhooma & Band of Mizoram. The Bhutan Tour was initiated by The Regional Director, Shillong ICCR Regional Office. The three

first shows was organized by Nehru Wangchuk Centre, Thimpu and the fourth show by the Indian Consulate, Phuentsholing. The touring team was sponsored by NEC, Shillong.

General Observer, Kiphire, Dheeraj Kumar (IAS), interacting with public Rival candidates Dr Nicky and Dr. Ato during repoll at upper AG (PS 29) 9th Kohima Town A/C on Friday. leaders during the repoll at Pungro town on Friday. K

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is the BJP going to come to power in Tripura a Left bastion? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

A B C

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

Yes No Can’t say

38% 51% 11%

Next poll

Q: Has the conduct of the

February 27 election been free and fair?  Yes  No.  Can’t say

WEATHER FORECAST March 3

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Sunshine and summerlike

36 20

Aizawl

Mostly sunny and pleasant

Guwahati Hazy sun Imphal

A thunderstorm in the area

26 14 30 17 27 11

Itanagar A p.m. t-storm in spots

21 15

Shillong Partly sunny and pleasant

22 11

Kohima

An a.m. t-storm; partly sunny

22 10

Dimapur Partly sunny and pleasant

30 15

A thunderstorm in the area

23 10

Mkg

Tuensang Cooler; an a.m. shower or two 15 8 Wokha

Times of clouds and sun

Zunheboto A thundershower in spots

21 14 20 8

India says its position on Dalai Lama unchanged NEW DELHI, MARCH 2 (IANS): Responding to a newspaper report that cited a Union government advisory asking central and state government functionaries and leaders to stay away from the Dalai Lamaled “Thank You India” campaign, the External Affairs Ministry (MEA) on Friday said that Indias position on the Tibetan leader is “unchanged”. “The government of India’s position on His Holiness the Dalai Lama is clear and consistent. He is a revered religious leader and is deeply respected by the people of India,” MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said. “There is no change in that position. His Holiness is accorded all freedom to carry out his religious activities in India,” he added. However, the MEA steered clear of commenting on the advisory sent out by the Cabinet Secretary P.K. Sinha on February 26 at the Foreign Secretary’s behest -- as reported by daily Indian Express on Friday -- in which he has told “senior leaders” and “government functionaries” of the Centre and states that it was “not desirable” to participate in

Enact MP school safety rules like those in Delhi: LS Speaker

Sumitra Mahajan

INDORE, FEB 2 (PTI): Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, in a letter to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has suggested to the state government to enact safety norms regarding schools on the lines of the ones in Delhi. She wrote the letter against the backdrop of a school bus accident here two months ago in which four students of Delhi Public School, and the driver of the bus, were killed. Mahajan, who is representing Indore in the Lok Sabha, wrote, “According to the information I have received, the School Education Department has been strictly implementing the law regarding (private)

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

schools in Delhi. In case of violations, a strong provision has been made under which the government takes over and runs such schools.” Referring to the provisions in Delhi, the Lok Sabha Speaker stated that, if the chief minister considered it suitable, such rules and regulations could also be made for schools in Madhya Pradesh. She said in the letter that the conduct of schoolbus drivers should be monitored and it should be ensured that they follow traffic rules. She suggested that there should be different toilets for the younger and older students besides separate washrooms for the employees. CCTV cameras should be installed in every part of a school and police verification of its staff should be made mandatory, Mahajan said. On January 5 this year, a speeding bus belonging to the DPS had rammed into a truck at Kanadiya bypass here, killing four students and the driver. Six persons were arrested for violation of laws related to maintenance of school buses.

Dalai Lama

the events of the Tibetan leadership in exile. The Tibetan “government-in-exile” has planned a series of events in Marchend and early April to commemorate 60 years of the Dalai Lama’s arrival in India in 1959 to escape the Chinese persecution. The Cabinet Secretary’s directive refers to a note sent by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale sent on February 22 - just ahead of Gokhale’s visit to Beijing in which he had requested Sinha to issue a “classified circular advisory advising all Ministries/Departments of Government of India as well as sate governments not to accept any invitation or to participate in the

Tiger spotted in Bengal’s Lalgarh forest Kolkata, March 2 (IANS): A Royal Bengal tiger was caught on a camera trap in Lalgarh forest in Bengal’s West Midnapore district, a forest official said on Friday. “Following reports of catte kills from surrounding villages, we installed seven cameras in Lalgarh forest, a former Maoist area. We got a report this morning that a fully grown Royal Bengal tiger was captured by one of the cameras,” said an officer of Midnapore Division Forest Office. “We found pug marks and suspected the tiger’s presence after inspecting a killed cattle,” he said, adding that earlier there was no report of the presence of the big cat in that forest. Efforts would be made to capture the tiger and send it to Sundarbans, he said. Responding to a query as to how the tiger could have come to the forest, the official said: “It is difficult to say. We are exploring all possibilities.” It was expected that the tiger might have sneaked into the forest from Simlipal reserve in neighbouring Odisha.

proposed events”. The move is being seen as India’s attempt to mend ties with Beijing which sharply deteriorated after the Dalai Lama’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh in April (from April 4-12) last year. China first stopped sharing upstream data on Brahmaputra from midMay last year and then the standoff in Doklam started around mid-June which could be resolved only two-and-half months later in August. Although the Dalai Lama is widely revered in India as a great spiritual Buddhist leader, China sees him as a “dangerous separatist”.

K’taka unveils healthcare scheme Bengaluru, March 2 (IANS): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday unveiled a healthcare scheme aimed at benefitting about 1.43 crore households in the state. “The ‘Arogya Karnataka’ (Healthy Karnataka) will provide quality primary, secondary and tertiary treatment to both BPL and APL families in the state,” Siddaramaiah said after unveiling the scheme in the city. It is a step towards a healthier and more productive Karnataka, he said. “Through the scheme, all below-pover ty-line (BPL) households will get free treatment at government hospitals while for above-poverty-line (APL) households, the state will bear about 30 per cent of the treatment cost.” Nearly 1.05 crore households can get access to healthcare entirely free of cost through the “Universal Health Card” to be linked to Aadhaar card, he said. In line with the ‘Modicare’ of the central government, Siddaramaiah had announced during the Budget presentation last month that Karnataka, too, would soon provide healthcare for all.

Church sexton who killed Kerala priest nabbed

T H I RU VA NA N THAPURAM, MARCH 2 (IANS): The former church sexton who stabbed a 52-year-old Catholic priest to death on Thursday in Kerala’s Ernakulam district was arrested from a forest on Friday afternoon, police said. Priest Xavier Thelekkat, a native of Kochi, was attached to the Angamaly diocese of the SyroMalabar Catholic Church and was the rector of the Kuruishmala Church. He was attacked and killed by his former sexton, Jomy, an officer of the church who looked after the maintenance of its buildings and

the graveyard. On Thursday, when the priest was coming down the hill as part of the Kuruishmala pilgrimage, Jomy stabbed the priest several times and fled to the forest. The police with the help of locals had launched a search into the forest and on Friday afternoon, a visibly tired Jomy was spotted in the forests. He was taken into the police custody. The accused will be interrogated and produced before a magistrate on Friday or Saturday. According to sources, Thelekat had fired Jomy three months ago. Jomy

had approached Thelekat a few times thereafter, requesting to be reinstated. However, the priest was not keen to take him back.

Case registered against singer Palak Muchhal’s brother

AGRA, MARCH 2 (IANS): The Uttar Pradesh Police on Friday confirmed that an FIR had been registered against singer Palak Muchhal’s brother Palash for allegedly misbehaving with a member of the organising committee during the Taj Mahotsava held here in February. According to Shailendra Singh, SHO Taj Ganj, an FIR under sections 323, 504, 506, 332, 427 had been registered against Palash Muchhal.

During a performance on February 27 by Palak Muchhal, her brother got into a heated argument with Sudhir Narain of the organising committee over what he alleged as “mis-treatment” to Palak’s mother. Sudhir Narain alleged he was slapped and threatened. District Magistrate Gaurav Dayal said investigations were on. A senior police official said that action on the FIR would start soon after Holi.

Two foreign nationals among three arrested with drugs

MUMBAI, MARCH 2 (PTI): Three persons, including two foreign nationals, were arrested with drugs in south Mumbai by the police’s Anti Narcotics Cell, officials said today. Contraband like mephedrone and ecstacy drug worth Rs 2.1 lakh were seized from them, the official added. In one case, personnel from the Azad Maidan unit of the ANC laid a trap near Eastern Freeway at Reay Road on Wednesday and nabbed John Peter (22), an Ivory Coast national, and Abu Abrar Seham (28), a resident of Bandra, with drugs worth Rs 1.26 lakh. A taxi that was being used to ferry drugs was also seized, police added. On the same day, in another case, ANC officials arrested Vincent Koman (24), also a foreign national, near Wadi Bunder with drugs, officials said. Further investigations were on, he added.

Delay in all-party delegation meeting Himachal wants Rs 1,000 cr PM on Cauvery is worrying: Ramadoss for Japan-funded farm project CHENNAI, MARCH 2 (IANS): The continuing delay by an all-party delegation led by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami in meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the Cauvery waters issue -- post a Supreme Court judgement -- is worrying, PMK founder S. Ramadoss said on Friday. On February 22, at a meeting of leaders of all political parties and representatives of farmer associations here, it was decided Palaniswami would lead a delegation to meet Modi and urge him to set up Cauvery Management Board (CMB) and Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee -- as the Supreme Court had mandated. The Supreme Court had on February 16, while ordering the central government to set up the CMB and the Cauvery Water Regulatory Committee within six weeks, had also reduced Tamil K Y M C

S. Ramadoss

Nadu’s share in the waters to 177.25 thousand million cubic feet (TMC), down from 192 TMC allocated by a tribunal in 2007. Ramadoss said soon after the all-party meeting decided to meet Modi, the state government’s representative in Delhi should have got in touch with Prime Minister’s Office and sought an appointment. If that was not possible, Chief Minister Palaniswami should have spoken to Modi during his recent visit here and got an appointment for a meeting with the all-party

delegation. Ramadoss said even if this was not done, an official delegation led by the Chief Secretary or the Secretary, Public Works Department, should have been sent to the Prime Minister’s Office for fixing an appointment with Modi. Ramadoss said there is no news whether any of all this was done by those in power in Tamil Nadu. According to Ramadoss, it is worrying that there is no progress on the decision to meet Modi. Ramadoss said Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam used to meet Modi regularly earlier. But in the case of an important issue concerning the state it is unclear why the doors of the Prime Minister’s Office are not opening. There is again a fear that Tamil Nadu would again be cheated out its share of the Cauvery waters, he said.

S H I M L A , M A RC H 2 (IANS): Himachal Pradesh, country’s off-season cash crops bowl, has sought additional funds of Rs 1,000 crore from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for extending a crop diversification project, an official said on Friday. The state is aiming to expand the Himachal Pradesh Crop Diversification Promotion Project in all 12 districts of the state. The demand to extend the project was raised this week by Additional Chief Secretary Shrikant Baldi at a meeting here with JICA-India Principal Development Specialist Subroto Takuldar. The latter was here along a delegation of 13 Afghan officers. JICA has been providing an assistance of Rs 321 crore to the state under the crop diversification project since 2011

for enhancing the socioeconomic conditions of farmers in Mandi, Kangra, Hamirpur, Bilaspur and Una districts. Baldi said in the ongoing project emphasis was on to strengthen microirrigation, solar water lifting, construction of farm access roads, collection centres and creation of irrigation potential in 4,600 hectares. The farmers, who formed groups under the name Krishak Vikas Association, are operating and maintaining the irrigation system themselves, a government spokesperson told IANS. The ownership of the irrigation systems have been completely transferred to them. The Afghan officers, who were on a four-day tour of the state from February 24, were taken to the fields to showcase irrigation and post-harvest technologies. K Y M C

northeast

Army assures early release of land compensation in Arunachal

Pema Khandu handing over a letter of appreciation to Lt Col. Manu Virmani. GUWAHATI, Mar 2 (Agencies): The Army has assured expeditious payment of compensation to locals for areas occupied by the Army in Arunachal Pradesh. Major General R K Jha, GOC 5 Mountain Division based in Tenga in Arunachal Pradesh gave the assurance during a meeting with Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu on Friday. The meeting which

took place at DK Memorial Museum, Famla in Tawang dealt with myriad subjects ranging from land acquisition, compensations matters, recruitment rallies and Rajya Sainik Board, an official source in Itanagar informed. Briefing the chief minister about the status of compensation issues of other Army occupied areas, General Jha said that the matter is being expedited

Hibu wants to empower youths from north east New Delhi, Mar 2 (Agencies): IGP Robin Hibu, the first IPS officer from the North Eastern state of Arunachal, wants to serve the North East People in distress, and empower them by creating awareness among them and providing to them legal-emergency assistance as well as healthcare–education facilities. Hibu, who was recently honoured with the President of India Distinguish Service Medal for the second time for 2017 – 2018, by Home Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi, said, “I feel overwhelmed to be honoured with the President of India Distinguish Service Medal for the second time. Heartfelt gratitude for the countless good wishes and prayers that gives me the strength and inspiration to deliver more.” Hibu, who has had an extremely challenging journey, so far, says his objective is to serve the North East People in distress, and empowering them by creating awareness, providing legal-emergency assistance as well as healthcare–education facilities. “It’s been an extremely challenging journey so far, and I have no qualms in saying that I have never shied from taking the less

traveled roads. My resolve is to serve the North East People in distress, and empower them by creating awareness, providing legalemergency assistance as well as healthcare–education facilities,’ ‘he said. It is indisputably a rare honour for someone to be awarded again for the second time with the President of India Distinguish Service Medal. The First President of India Medal for Meritorious Service was awarded to him in 2009 – 2010. In the past, Hibu was conferred the Police Medal for his meritorious service in 2010, in addition to twice being honoured with the Gold Medal in 2003 and 2009. He was also decorated with the prestigious UN Peace Medals for Service in Kosovo in 2000 and Bosnia in 1999 by the legendary UN Secretary General Kofi Annan for his distinguish service in UN Police as UN Police Commander at Gjilane, Kosovo and Bosnia Herzgovina, Yugoslavia. By getting chosen for a stint in Rashtrapati Bhavan in 2017 last year, Hibu became the first IGP from the NE region to serve as Joint Commissioner in the Rashtrapati Bhavan Secretariat in New Delhi.

and the locals will soon be handed over with the compensation money. General Jha impressed upon the chief minister to take up establishment of Rajya Sainik Board at the earliest in order to infuse a sense of belongingness and encouragement to personnel of arm forces. While assuring that the matter will be expedited, Khandu said that the subject of Rajya Sainik Board which was under

the Disaster Management Department earlier is now taken up under the Home department. On the invitation of GOC, Khandu assured to visit Tenga and interact with the Army jawans there. “I would love to be amidst our brave jawans and share views” Khandu said. The chief minister appreciated the Army for facilitating recruitment rallies in different locations in the state which has given local youths ample chance to get recruited in the great Indian Army. Meanwhile, the chief minister in the presence of GOC handed over a letter of appreciation to Lt Col. Manu Virmani of Headquarter, 190 Mountain Brigade of Tawang for his concerted effort in establishing excellent Civil-Army relation and by winning over the heart and mind of the people of Tawang by associating the Army in all the mega events in Tawang. Lt Col Virmani was felicitated with a white scarf and a book with the appreciation letter.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

Bru repatriation unlikely to begin as per schedule: official Aizawl, Mar 2 (PTI): Repatriation of over 5,000 Bru families from Tripura is not likely to take off as scheduled from this month, as the refugees rejected a central government financial assistance proposal, a senior state home department official said Friday. Officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs informed the 5,413 refugee families last month that each repatriated family would be provided with a package of Rs 1.30 lakh besides Rs 5,000 per family per month and free ration for two years. “The Bru people in the relief camps rejected the proposals of the MHA during a meeting at Naisingpara relief camp on February 23. It is unlikely that the repatriation will begin as per schedule,” Mizoram Additional Secretary for Home Lalbiakzama told PTI. A memorandum submitted to the Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh by the Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Forum (MBDPF) in January had demanded a provision

of Rs 15 lakh to each repatriated Bru family. The MBPDF had also demanded that all the repatriated able-bodied youths should be given government jobs. The ball is now in the court of the MHA, he said. Lalbiakzama said the Mizoram government is fully prepared to conduct the repatriation from Tripura to Mizoram any time. The repatriation was scheduled to begin from the first week of March. Thousands of Brus are lodged in the six relief camps since the later part of 1997 following exodus from Mizoram due to communal tension triggered by the murder of a forest official by Bru militants. Mizoram government officials who conducted an identification in the Tripura relief camps from November 2 to November 23, 2016 had identified 32,857 people belonging to 5,413 families as bona fide residents of Mizoram, who were eligible for repatriation.

Dear Aku, As you turn another year older, we pray to God that He is always there to guide you in everything you do and dream of doing. May God bless you with love and luck, not just today but every single day of your life. Happy 8th Birthday! Love from mom, dad, bro, afo and angu. Dear Sungjem, Happy Birthday!! You are an amazing person.. It’s a pleasure to know you and be your friend. I pray God bless your special day with more joy than your heart can hold today! Love, Limasangla. Dear Atul Bhaiya, I wish you have a remarkable year ahead and prosper more than anything else in this world. Hope you have a luck as a companion in all circumstances to make the journey of life worthwhile and blessed. Enjoy your day. Happy birthday! From, Dohol Gudmrng Sis, You are truly a blessing for all of us you make our life brighter fill it with happiness and joy your birthday is another occasion to tell u that we love u infinitely........ Once again happy birthday Sis. With love Kaka, Bebe, Suman, Sunita, Ani......

Assam residents Mnp govt forms boards to simplify found enrolled in issuance of certificates to PWDs Mnp electoral roll Correspondent centres of each blocks, Imphal, Mar 2 (Agencies): Manipur Police has detected some cases of people already enrolled in Assam enrolling themselves in the border villages of Manipur. Manipur Police official said during verification of electorates at 40 Jiribam Assembly Constituency, four electors under Polling Station No.40/26 (Mullargaon) namely 404 Kritu Mia (35) , Sl.No.405 Gulerun , Sl.No. 406 Nur Khatun and 407 Masuk Ahmed were detected to have been enrolled in 13 Lakhipur (Sadharan) Assembly Constituency, Assam under Sl.No. 590, 591, 592 and 593. Manipur Police has requested the concerned authority to pay special attention to avoid such irregularities in the electoral rolls. Some of the constituencies including Jiribam have recorded abnormal increase in electoral roll largely due to large scale illegal immigration from neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar and Nepal. Various civil societies have demanded a law to protect the indigenous people as numbers of immigrants have increased causing lots of political problems.

IMPHAL, Mar 2: In a move to simply the issuance of disability certificate to persons with disabilities, Manipur government has formed state level, district level and block level boards. The boards were constituted in compliance with the assurance given by chief minister N Biren Singh to address the inconveniences being faced by persons with disabilities while obtaining disability certificate. Boards at state level, district level and block level have been constituted to simplify issuance of disability certificates to the persons with disabilities, a release of the state DIPR said on Friday. Director of state medical & health services has been appointed as the chairman of the state level board and he will be assisted by three members (doctors) including one specialist in the particular field for assessing disability, it said. Chief medical officers have been appointed as chairmen of the district level board. Block level boards, which will function from the community health

comprise of medical officer in-charge of the CHC concerned with three member doctors including a specialist in the field for assessing disability. An order issued by the joint secretary of health & family welfare stated that the concerned chairman of the state level board, district level board and block level board will requisite specialist doctors from the health institutions/hospitals located in the district headquarters under health and family welfare department and JN Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS), Porompat wherever necessary for their induction as members in the board. The chairman of the district level board and block level board will consult the district social welfare officers of the department of social welfare for payment of travelling allowance of the board members. Further, it stated that persons with disabilities will have to submit their applications in prescribed forms only to the concerned medical boards in their respective districts/ blocks for certificate for person with disabilities.

People celebrate holi at Fancy Bazar in Guwahati on Friday. (PTI)

Tripura minister Jamatia passes away Agartala, Mar 2 (PTI): Khagendra Jamataia, Tripura Fisheries and Cooperation minister and a CPI-M contestant in the recent state assembly poll died at a hospital in New Delhi Friday, Deputy Speaker Pabitra Kar said. Jamatia was CPI(M) candidate from the Krishnapur constituency in the February 18 assembly election. He was 64 and is survived by his wife and two sons.

Asked election office sources said counting would be held for the constituency tomorrow along with the others in the state as scheduled. Jamatia was admitted to Gobinda Ballav Panth Hospital here after he became ill on February 19, a day after the assembly election was held in the state, party spokesperson, Gautam Das said. He was shifted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in

New Delhi on February 25 where he was diagnosed with blood cancer, Das said. The poll results will be announced tomorrow. Jamatia joined the CPI(M) in 1983, was a party MLA for six consecutive terms since 1988 and a minister for two terms, the deputy speaker said. His body would be brought to Tripura from New Delhi for the last rites, he added.

Yaoshang festival kicks off in Manipur NERIST students strike over failure to appoint director

Children after taking part in a torch rally to mark the opening of Yaoshang festival in Imphal on Friday. (NP) Correspondent

IMPHAL, Mar 2: Hundreds of people thronged the historic Kangla fort to light sacred flame to inaugurate annual local sports competitions to be held during the five-day Yaoshang festival. Yaoshang, the biggest festival of Manipur, which

coincides with the mainland’s Holi will be celebrated over the next five-day. Sports and entertainment activities are being held besides religious fervor and merrymaking. The actual celebration of the youth oriented festival began in the evening with the burning of traditional

Yaoshang (a small thatch hut). It was followed by ‘Nakatheng’ - an age-old tradition of house-to-house donation campaign by children. Newspapers will stay off the stands for full five days. Business establishments, government offices and banks remain closed.

D i mapu r , M a r 2 (Agencies): At a time when examination fever starts in every educational institution across the country, North East Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) is caught in turmoil after the students launched indefinite strike since February 27 demanding appointment of regular director for the institute. Eight students have been on hunger strike since Thursday. The agitation spearheaded by Students Union of NERIST (SUN) shut the premier technical institute, paralysed all vehicular movement within the premise and locked the main entrance gates. “We are not asking MHRD for the Moon or the stars. Our demand is simple and basic, we only want a regular director as early as possible,” said SUN president Natung vowing not to back off until the demand is met. Agitated by non-response from MHRD, the students on Friday burnt

the effigies of HRD Minister Prakash Javedekar and Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju in front of NERIST gates. “Today, we had to take tough stand by burning effigies of HRD Minister and MoS Rijiju, because we are upset with MoS, he came to flag off Train here but did not visit us” said SUN president Natung. The students on Thursday observed ‘black day’ donning black dress and badges. NERIST has been without regular Director since October 2014 after then director Professor Dipankar Pal was unceremoniously removed from the post. NERIST, which was established in 1984, caters the students from eight Northeast states including many students from different parts of India. The agitating students also vowed not to back off until the appointment letter of new Director reached their hand. Rijiju on Tuesday attributed internal-strife

NERIST students burn effigies during a protest. among the NERIST faculty members as ‘glitches’ to early appointment of regular director by the MHRD and early resolution of internal issue would pave the way for the ministry to appoint regular director. However, faculty members have denied any knowl-

edge about internal strife. “Our role is limited to teaching, research and development activities. Why would any faculty member meddle with appointment of regular Director? Moreover, why would MHRD listen to any faculty complain on whom to appoint,”

questioned Professor Pradip Lingfa, president, NERIST Faculty Association. Meanwhile, expressing concern over the turmoil in the premier institute, All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union has urged the centre and state government to pay heed to SUN’s demand.

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

Owaisi dares PM Modi to go for early LS elections

HYDERABAD, MARCH 2 (IANS): MIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Friday dared Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold early general elections -- othewise to be held in 2019 -- and said people were “ready to teach him and his BJP a lesson”. “His four-year rule has not given anything except disappointment. The people are also keenly waiting for the elections to teach him and his party a lesson,” Owaisi told a meeting held to mark the 60th anniversary of Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM). The Hyderabad MP asked his party to be ready for early Lok Sabha elections and challenged Modi to dissolve Parliament and “face the people”. Referring to the humongous bank fraud involving Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, he asked the Prime Minister to explain what happened to his promise of ‘Na khaunga, na khane doonga’ (neither will I take bribe, nor will I allow others to do it). The MIM chief also demanded that Narendra Modi explain the threats from Bharatiya Janata Party leaders and right-wing outfits to send Indian Muslims to Pakistan if they raised voice against the killings and lynchings.

Asaduddin Owaisi “I ask -- why did they not send people who committed fraud on the country and looted the public money from banks?” Greeting the Hindu community on Holi festival, Owaisi said all attempts to brand his party as antiHindu had failed and that every community stood with the MIM due to its hard work and honesty. “The sangh parivar should know that saffron alone is not the colour of India. The beauty of India is that it emerges from the merger of all colours -- be it saffron, green, white or black. All colours belong to India,” he said. After hoisting the MIM flag at the party headquarters Darussalam, Owaisi said both the BJP and the Congress would be routed

in the next elections in Telanagana. “I challenge the two parties to pick up the strongest candidates -- not jokers -- to fight from Hyderabad. Let the Prime Minister address 10 meetings in the city. Still the Hindus, Muslims, Dalits and Christians will ensure MIM’s victory by more than two lakh votes,” he said. Defending the MIM’s decision to contest elections in other states, he said contesting elections and participating in the democratic process was the right given under the Constitution and it was the only way in which the Muslims could strive to secure their fundamental rights in the country. He said the party had an influential role in Telangana, and members in

SSC paper leak: Kejriwal urges Centre to initiate CBI probe

Agra mayor slammed for riding scooter sans helmet

Arvind Kejriwal NEW DELHI, MAR 2 (PTI): Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today said that the Centre should initiate a CBI probe in the alleged SSC paper leak, stating that the issue is related to the fate of thousands of exam aspirants. A similar demand was also made by Swaraj India president Yogendra Yadav this week. “Thousands of SSC exam aspirants have been demanding a CBI enquiry.

This issue is related to the fate of thousands of exam aspirants. The Centre should accept their demand for CBI probe immediately,” Kejriwal tweeted. The students have been protesting outside the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) office at CGO complex in Lodhi Road since February 27, seeking a CBI investigation into the alleged paper leak in the Combined Graduate-Level (CGL) examination held from February 17 to 21. Late last night, Yadav tweeted that there were rumours of police action on students protesting outside the SSC office. “The information coming out indicated towards a scam of massive proportion. The demand for a fair and independent CBI probe is absolutely right,” Swaraj India said in a statement quoting Yadav.

AG R A , M A RC H 2 (IANS): Images of Agra Mayor Navin Jain riding a scooter without a helmet have gone viral on the social media, evoking widespread criticism at a time when police are campaigning to enforce road safety rules, including that of two-wheeler riders wearing helmets. Leaders from the Opposition parties have slammed the mayor for “setting a bad example”. The mayor’s scooter ride without a helmet came against a spirited campaign by the police to ensure two-wheeler riders wear helmets. Hundreds of violators have been fined in the past week. Social activist Shravan Kumar Singh in his letter to the police on Thursday asked for stern action against the mayor.

Maharashtra Assembly and civic bodies, apart from presence in Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh. Tracing the 60-year journey of the MIM, which was revived as a political outfit by his grandfather Abdul Wahed Owaisi on March 2, 1958, amid turbulent times after the police action in Hyderabad, Asaduddin Owaisi said the biggest contribution of his party was to strengthen public confidence in democracy and the Constitution of India. Rejecting the charge that the MIM was derived from the Razakar militia, Owaisi said: “MIM is a party of nationalists and patriots who embody the spirit of secularism, pluralism and knows how to fulfil its reponsibility. (Muhammad Ali) Jinnah was asked to go to Pakistan. Razakars went to Pakistan but all nationalist Muslims stayed back,” he said. He lashed out at the Congress, calling it “janeudhari party” (driven by class compulsions) and asked why its Muslim members of Parliament remained silent when the Sharia “came under attack in Parliament”. “They also remained silent when the Babri Masjid was demolished,” Owaisi charged.

8 devotees killed in Himachal Pradesh accident S H I M L A , M A RC H 2 (IANS): Eight devotees from Punjab were killed when a private vehicle skidded off the road and fell into a gorge on the ChandigarhManali national highway in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh on early Friday, police said. The devotees, belonging to Kale Ghanpur village near Amritsar town, were returning home after paying obeisance at a famous Sikh shrine at Manikaran in Kullu district when the accident occurred near Swarghat, about 120 km from the state capital. One person got grievous injuries and was admitted to a government hospital in Nalagarh. “Most of the dead belonged to close-knit families,” a police official told IANS. Eyewitnesses said the Innova vehicle was overcrowded and the driver probably lost control while negotiating a turn. Rescuers, mostly locals, had a tough time in extracting the victims from the vehicle, said an eyewitness. The Manikaran shrine, located in the Parvati Valley along the banks of the Parvati river, is some 50 km from the Kullu district headquarters and 250 km from state capital Shimla. It’s one of the busiest Sikh shrines in north India and frequented by the devotees, especially during festivals like Holi.

Indian Coast Guard rescues severely injured Lankan fisherman

Indian Coast Guard team rescuing injured Sri Lankan fisherman. MUMBAI, MARCH 2 (IANS): An Indian Coast Guard team has rescued a Sri Lankan fisherman who had suffered a life threatening deep cut on his neck while fishing onboard a vessel. According to an official statement, the Director General Operations of the Sri Lanka Navy informed the Indian Coast Guard on Thursday morning that Lankan fisherman Malwatta Pathirannehalage Sunil Shantha, 47, was badly injured and that his condition was critical. The fisherman was onboard a vessel that was fishing 98 nautical miles from Chenyakara lighthouse in Lakshadweep. An Indian Coast Guard ship, Samar, which was on a

BENGALURU, MAR 2 (PTI): Launching a blistering attack on the ruling Congress, the BJP today launched its 14-day ‘protect Bengaluru’ march here, with a call to save the city from that party’s “misrule.” The ‘Bengaluru Rakshisi Padayatre’ that will criss-cross the city till March 15 is aimed at “reviving” and “rebuilding” the city from Congress’s “criminal neglect,” the party said. The march was kicked-off by Union ministers Prakash Javadekar and Ananth Kumar in the presence of former Deputy Chief Minister R Ashoka at Basavanagudi here after offering prayers at historic Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple. Launching the yatra, Javadekar asked the people to choose between good governance of BJP and “goonda raj” of the Congress. “Modi (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is known

who was busy preparing the ‘divine’ offering. A group of 10 transgenders also took an active part in the festivities. According to the traditions of this event, the women who take part in the Pongala festival have to be dressed in new clothes and every item used for cooking the ‘divine’ pongala has to be brand new. According to the leg-

for good governance, Congress is known for goonda raj..so you have to choose goonda raj or good governance,” he said. The Union minister also urged the people to “protect Bengaluru,” because Bengaluru “deserves much better”, as he slammed the Siddaramaiahled Congress government for indulging in “arrogance of power.” “Bengaluru will root out this arrogance of power, we are confident of it,” he said, adding, the yatra was against “goondaism, traffic jam, law and order failure, potholes on the city roads and condition of lakes in Bengaluru.” Referring to BJP governments in various states, Javadekar asked the people to ensure that “next is Karnataka BJP.” The party with this march is aiming to strengthen its prospects in the city that has 28 assembly seats,

Union ministers Prakash Javadekar, Ananth Kumar and DV Sadananda Gowda take out the Bengaluru Rakshisi. for the coming assembly polls expected in April/ May. This is the second march launched by the BJP, the first being the 85-day “Parivarthana Yatra” that concluded on February 4. The yatra criss-crossed all 224 assembly constituencies in the state and virtually sounded the bugle for the

end, Kannaki destroyed Madurai in Tamil Nadu after the king of Madurai wrongfully imposed the death penalty on her husband. After that, Kannaki travelled to Kerala, where she rested for a while at Attukal and women are said to have cooked pongala to please her. The festival concluded around 2 p.m. after the chief

priest sprayed holy water on the offering. Once this is done, followed by a prayer, the women pack their bags and make their way back. This year, state-owned transport department operated 400 extra services for the convenience of the devotees while Indian Railways made special arrangements for the travelers by operating seven special trains.

ple authorities, this year has been a record gathering and is estimated to run into several lakhs as women were found cooking in more than a 13 square kilometre radius of the temple. The rituals began around 10.15 a.m on Friday when the chief priest of the Attukal Bhagavathi Temple lit the makeshift stove with fire brought from the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The fire was then passed on to the stoves of the women who had lined up

on either side of the roads to cook their offering using rice, jaggery and coconut. This year, women from neighbouring states also took part in the festival. Even Saraswathy Sathasivam, wife of Kerala Governor P. Sathasivam, participated in the festival. Numerous film personalites and civil society members were also present. “This is the fourth time I am taking part in this event and next year also I will come,” said Sarawathy

INDIRA GANDHI RASHTRIYA URAN AKADEMI

Fursatganj Airfield, Distt. Amethi (U.P)-229 302 (An Autonomous Body under the Ministry of Civil Aviation Govt. of India) ISO 9001-2008 Certified "PROVIDE WINGS TO DREAMS" Join India's Best Flying Training Institution Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA) invites applications for Ab-initio to Commercial Pilot License course, scheduled to commence from Sep 2018/Jan 2019 / Mar 2019. The eligibility criteria is minimum 10+2 with Physics, Maths & English with min 55% aggregate marks in Physics & Maths for general category and min 50% for SC, ST and OBC (belonging to non creamy layer) candidates. 1. The training fee is Rs. 38 Lacs plus Boarding-Lodging and other expenses extra. 2. For detailed information and application formats etc please visit "IGRUA ENTRANCE" on our website www.igrua.gov.in The Employment News dated 3rd – 9th March 2018 (Page No.4) The last date of filling of ONLINE application is 24th Apr 2018 (for fee payment by bank challan) 01st May 2018 (for fee payment by online mode) The date of online exam

coming assembly polls in the state. Kumar said the party launched the yatra today to say that what Bangaluru wants is “Modigiri and not goondagiri.” Hitting out at BJP’s yatra, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah described it as an attempt to give “wrong information to people for

12 May 2018 (Saturday) 14:30 hrs. davp 03104/11/0001/1718

political gains.” Questioning as to what BJP had protected in Bengaluru while in power, he said “They have to first say what they have protected and then say what needs to be protected.” He asked BJP leaders to also tell people about their “misgovernance” in Bengaluru while in power.

Gram:Agricomplex Medziphema

Phone:247241/247250 Fax :03862 -247241

ICAR RESEARCH COMPLEX FOR NEH REGION (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, Nagaland- 797106

No.RCN/Tender/649/2013-Vol-V

Dated Jharnapani the 1st March, 2018

NOTICE INVITING TENDER Sealed quotations are hereby invited from the reputed Firms/ Suppliers/ Manufacturers/ Authorized Dealers for the supply 1) Animal/ Poultry feeds 2) veterinary medicine for poultry & piggery unit 3) PVC Pipe under NICRA Project. The bid should reach the office of the Joint Director on or before 4.00 PM of 22nd March, 2018. For details please visit our website www.icarnagaland.nic.in or office during office hours.

Sd/Asstt. Administrative Officer

DC-480

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND

OFFICE OF THE COMMANDANT 9TH NAP BN (INDIA RESERVE) SAIJANG : NAGALAND

No. 9BN(IR)RO-10/2017-18/1581

ENTRANCE 2018

Women takes part in Attukal Pongala festival, Kerala.

IMUL-A-0507-CHW had left Sri Lanka on February 14 with five crew. The Sri Lankan Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) had first informed its Indian counterpart in Mumbai about the injured fisherman on February 27. The vessel was then fishing at 100 Nautical Mile west of Suheli Par Island in Lakshadweep. The Colombo-based MRCC had said that the patient was stable and evacuation of the patient was being planned by the Sri Lankan Navy on February 28. But that couldn’t happen, forcing the Director General Operations of the Sri Lanka Navy to get in touch with the Indian Coast Guard on March 1 for the rescue operation.

BJP launches 14-day ‘protect Bengaluru march’

Lakhs of women take part in Attukal Pongala festival THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, MARCH 2 (IANS): Lakhs of women took part in the famed Attukal Pongala festival in Kerala on Friday. The event was listed in the Guinness World Records in 2009 for being the largest religious gathering of women on a single day. It marks the culmination of the 10-day-long annual festival at the Attukal Bhagavathy temple in the city. A record of 2.5 million women took part in the festival on a single day in 2009. The temple, located in the heart of the city, is dedicated to Attukal Bhagavathi, believed to be an incarnation of Kannaki, the central character of the Tamil epic “Silappathikaaram”. The Pongala event takes place on the penultimate day of the 10-day-long Attukal Pongala festival. The most prestigious seat for cooking is in the temple compound where devotees cook the offering for the deity on makeshift brick stoves. According to the tem-

separate operational mission in the area and was approximately 174 nautical miles from the Lankan vessel, was diverted for medical aid to the injured fisherman, the statement said. The Indian ship located the Lankan boat on Thursday evening and a medical team gave first aid to the fisherman with an 8 cm long and 1.5 cm deep cut. The injured fisherman was taken onboard Samar and stitching and scalp suturing of the wound were done under local anesthesia. The patient was stable and was under observation as the ship sailed towards Kochi for further treatment. It was likely to reach there on Saturday. The Lankan boat bearing registration number

Dated, Saijang, the 28th Feb. 2018

No. 171 Rank, NCE Name : Deepak Mani Tripathi S/o. : Umesh Mani Tripathi Vill : Dewaria PO : Dewaria PS : Dewaria Dist. : Dewaria, UP CALLING NOTICE Whereas you have been found absent from bonafide Govt. duty with effect from 30/11/2017 till date without leave or permission from the competent authority and despite issuing the following calling notice you have failed to report for duty till date. 1. NO. 9BN(IR)RO-10/2017-18/1446 dated 08/12/2017 2. NO. 9BN(IR)RO-10/2017-18/1614 dated 09/01/2018 3. NO. 9BN(IR)RO-10/2017-18/1869 dated 08/02/2018 You are therefore, directed to report at Bn. Hqr. Saijang within 7 (seven) days of publication of this notice, failing which you will be declared deserter and dismissed from the service without serving any further notice and legal action will be taken against you. (VIKLUTO JOHN) Commandant th 9 NAP Bn (India Reserve) Saijang, Nagaland DC-479

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

Vol. XXVIII NO. 85 Dimapur, SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

Mirage

ust like some people who talk against corruption merely to sound like persons of high integrity ; politicians from various parties have been demanding that all black money, estimated at around Rs.30 lakh crore should be brought back to India and those who had violated tax and other rules be booked. The issue of black money has been used as a favourite weapon by political rivals. Despite promises to reveal the names of those tax evaders and also bring back the money to the country, nothing really moved much. Those holding so-called black money include politicians, business persons and corporate honchos. No doubt the issue of black money is important those account holders have to prove that the money is for and from legitimate business and not from commissions or bribes. The demand has been heard for several decades and the closest promise was in 2014 when Narendra Modi promised to bring back all black money within 100 days of coming to power and deposit Rs.15 lakh into the bank accounts of every Indian citizen at home. The 100 days may take another 100 years and the amount may only get fatter as more people continue to deposit money into their black accounts abroad. Black money is said to be untaxed and therefore constitutes a serious economic offence. India is the world`s most corrupt country where corruption has become a major factor of the government. The Swiss government has agreed to disclose the names of the account holders only if the respective government formally asked for specific names. India has more money in Swiss bank than all the other countries combined. Russia is in fourth position. Interestingly, the US does not even figure among the top five countries having their money in Swiss banks. The black money belongs to those who evaded taxes and they are dishonest persons, scandalous politicians and corrupt IAS, IPS officers. Of the approximate total black money, it is reported that a whopping sum of around $ 1500 billion, or around 9 lakh crore rupees which the amount of misappropriated money, is kept in Swiss banks. According to reports appearing in the media, the among of black money stashed in foreign banks is said to be 13 times larger than India’s foreign debt. Black money has been siphoned off from the people through corruption, exploitation and betrayal. While India conveniently grapples with taking an important first step, countries like the USA have settled their Swiss bank accounts where billionaires have had to pay at least 50% of the money as tax. Big names of American business like Gates and Bloomberg had to do that. In the same way, Italy got back 6.4 billion dollars from Swiss Bank while Germany got 5.7 billion and France got 1.7 billion dollars. Much of the money in Swiss banks and other tax havens in places like the Bahamas etc were routed into the Indian stock exchanges Participatory Note (PN) bought in Mauritius through front companies. The UPA government then and now the NDA, had vowed to get back the money and prosecute the offenders but the pace has not been promising. It may be recalled that on March 16,2014 The Supreme Court slammed the Centre for failing to bring back black money stashed in foreign banks for over six decades. Political parties continue to indulge in finger pointing but appear hesitant to act and that, perhaps is an indication that everybody is as guilty as the other.

DailyDevotion Have You Felt the Pain Inflicted by the Lord? He said to him the third time, “…do you love Me?” —John 21:17 Have you ever felt the pain, inflicted by the Lord, at the very center of your being, deep down in the most sensitive area of your life? The devil never inflicts pain there, and neither can sin nor human emotions. Nothing can cut through to that part of our being but the Word of God. “Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, ‘Do you love Me?’ ” Yet he was awakened to the fact that at the center of his personal life he was devoted to Jesus. And then he began to see what Jesus’ patient questioning meant. There was not the slightest bit of doubt left in Peter’s mind; he could never be deceived again. And there was no need for an impassioned response; no need for immediate action or an emotional display. It was a revelation to him to realize how much he did love the Lord, and with amazement he simply said, “Lord, You know all things….” Peter began to see how very much he did love Jesus, and there was no need to say, “Look at this or that as proof of my love.” Peter was beginning to discover within himself just how much he really did love the Lord. He discovered that his eyes were so fixed on Jesus Christ that he saw no one else in heaven above or on the earth below. But he did not know it until the probing, hurting questions of the Lord were asked. The Lord’s questions always reveal the true me to myself. Oh, the wonder of the patient directness and skill of Jesus Christ with Peter! Our Lord never asks questions until the perfect time. Rarely, but probably once in each of our lives, He will back us into a corner where He will hurt us with His piercing questions. Then we will realize that we do love Him far more deeply than our words can ever say.

Quotes

Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago. ~ Warren Buffett

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

I am still for clean election!

es! You read it right that I am still for clean election. You all have seen or witnessed what had happened: the beauty and ugly side of election. One must be wondering why I should come up with the topic of clean election again when it’s all over and settled. Election enemies becomes your best friends and your election friends becomes your worst enemies. The parties or groups that travels up and down and talks to you like an angel during election are nowhere to be found, you hardly see anybody waving at you. We all have heard or seen that lives are just turned into objects. Families are broken; friendships are broken. Proxies are still considered as fashion, polling officers failed to exercise their power, repolls are on the process and the list goes on. All you do now is go back to your own field and resume your own profession. The end! Game over! I must say the clean election is a successful one though I know things are not right in our own family. I say it’s a success because for the first time in the history of Nagaland election many families decided not to sell their votes, this is the first step of clean election. I believe there are hundreds of families who decided to clean their own family before pointing fingers on someone, I bless you all; keep going, we have a long way to go. I also believe there are some families that are divided between clean and unclean election, I tell you, you are just one step behind, don’t give up but keep on cleaning. Maybe your brother or your dad have a choice but decided not to follow what is right, do not blame them but instead tell them it’s not too late to change though election is over because we are going to run miles and miles again. Tell them to join the clean election with you because this campaign is not confined to just a season but it is a continuous process; as long as the state exist this campaign will continue. I am sure NBCC will agree with me and it will continue to fight for

The Leaky Bucket The water carrier went back and forth Each day From the well to the village, He carried two leather buckets, One old and leaky, The other new and shiny. One day the old leaky bucket objected. “Why,” he said, “Do you continue to use me, old man? Look at your new bucket. Each time you get to the village it is still full While I am half-empty. I make you work twice as hard.” T h e o l d wa t e r c a r r i e r laughed. “Have you not noticed the flowers,” he said, “On your side of the path? I water them every day, Using your leaks, There are no flowers on the other side of the path for No water spills on that side.” (Extract from “The grace of giving” by Dr. John For. DeVries) How many of us feel like that old, leaky water bucket? We feel discouraged, down, insignificant. What does one imperfect tiny life matter? The world needs Change; our society needs reformation and you wish you could do something about it, but you think you are so small and can hardly make any significant impact.

clean election. NBCC have sown the seeds, it is up to each and every individual to destroy or to nurture. It’s our choice. Some of you might be surprised why I emphasize so much on this campaign when my dad was a unit member in one of the political parties. You must have seen him going house to house doing which are not allowed in the constitution of India. I have no doubt in that. I called up my dad and I can proudly say he is honest, he didn’t take any money. But, what he and the other agents did to the voters need to be changed. So what am I saying here is, there are two types of people. The voters and the candidates; and one can see clearly from my family. One can say my dad represents the candidate who tries so hard to win the election by any means and the rest of my family represents the voters. I am not blaming my dad here I am just so proud of him, because he never lied to me. He promised me that our votes are not for sale. This is one hell step he took it for clean election. He took one step this time though he failed to take the second step. Dear beloveds, the whole point of talking about my kitchen here is, we Nagas are not bold enough to point a finger on our own when we clearly know something is not right. Instead we waste our time finding a fault in someone. We blame the govt. officials, people in power and so on for everything when we all know solution and corruption starts from our own small family. I am sure my dad will be very proud of me because he always reminds me to be honest and truthful in what I do. I am sure he is proud to have a family like us. And I pray that he will take one more step very soon to clean election. So, you have read it how a Naga family during election is all about because I represent a Naga as a whole. I am sure everybody has their own stories and I would love to hear them too. I have no doubt that some of you have accepted a few thousand

bucks in exchange of your vote, you took it because you are broke as you are jobless since December, all your earnings are gone during Christmas and New Year parties and election was the only source of income. You accepted the money because you need to pay your children’s school admissions and fees; you need to send pocket money to your children studying in the cities. You had a choice not to take it but you did because it was the only chance in five years. I am sure some of you have washed your hand by saying that you didn’t accept money or buy votes during election. And now you are a proud citizen but deep in your heart and in your file you want something if your candidates comes to power, you might have already budget everything, like how much you will gain from this and that project instead of the real development. Some of you need a good vehicle, and you’ll ask because you did everything for that person to let him be in power, as if your vote carries hundred votes. Some of you will demand a job instead of asking the govt. to create more job opportunities. The list goes on and on, your representatives can say no to all these but he’ll say yes and let you have it all because he wants to be elected next time too. So, there are two types of people in the process- one who takes money before election and one who takes it after election. And at the end nobody gets development. This is our story and our society. I think some of us have failed some way or other, but we can all still change. Our representatives are supposed to bring developments and opportunities to our constituencies, yet we stop them by asking our own personal share. We started eating the seeds before it turns out to be a fruit where it can feed many families. I was sharing to my mom and dad how a small development can change a generation. I am so proud and thankful to my grandfather under whom the Civil Hospital Chizami (Now primary

health center) was born. It’s a small hospital but when you really studied the details you will know there are hundreds and thousands of people that got benefited from that small development. I personally want to ask those people who are going to form a govt. this time. Please give us development, create more job opportunities by bringing better infrastructures and we will show you the real Nagaland. The other day I was talking to my uncle about clean election and what he said was true, “Unless the youth of our generation started to have a work culture, chances are less to have clean election.” I totally agreed with him, we the youths are failing to do our job; we are looking for easy money; we are looking for four hours jobs that pays high; we are looking for a jobs where we can be the boss of the bosses; etc. we are still looking because we are over qualified for all those jobs and so we become jobless because there are no such jobs in our state, we have to create one. “Know your roots and your roots will lead you to clean election and a better society.” Let me tell you my story how I was failing and how Jesus pulled me out. I was working in Mumbai when I got a call from my dad that there are some chances that I could get a job in Police Department through officers’ quota (I believe there is no such thing). He told me that a friend (a church worker) of his knows one of the officers and he recommended that I should take it. His intention was good; he wants to help my family but in a wrong way. It took me one week to think about it, I say yes but on one condition, that, it should be a level of Sub Inspector. I prayed to God that I am failing and I promised to God that I will do my job well if appointed. God was silent. When God is silent then there is something happening. (To be concluded) Wedekhro Naro, Kuwait City, Kuwait

Who is the winner?

he days of high and low blood pressure, depression and fear are almost gone with the clearance of the storms of election. Yet the residue is still alive. All candidates are awaiting the result with lesser peace of mind. The party workers and supporters are still angry and aggressive. Winning will bring few days of smile, while losing will aggravate the nervous system. The necessity for revenge still runs from head to toe. It boils the blood. The steam comes forth from the ears and the nose. The loser blame the winner, the winner condemn the loser. At the end, the public meet the sad ending of losing the game of life. The real winner is nowhere to be seen again. He disappears only to be seen after five years of paradise living. The common people continue to live their normal lives in silence. This is the game of politics; a game played by many unprofessional players. Yet the winner will still be called winner irrespective of his deeds. It is good to examine the mode of election in Nagaland. If election is conducted every five years, than every fifth year will witness violence, vandalism and bloodshed. It will become a normal routine. Nagas will happily accept the year of destruction called ‘election.’ Unless there is violence, revenge will find no place in the society. Unless there is vandalism, the joy of election is not fulfilled. Unless there is bloodshed, it cannot be called election. Shall we allow Nagaland to continue in this series of tragedy? How many lives are snapped and how many houses are destroyed during election? Who shall be held responsible for such act? No one knows. The culprit can become the winner. The winner can become the victim. The qualities needed to win the election are bravery, violence, aggressiveness and doubled-tongued. Somehow, the game must be won to appease the gods. He becomes the winner. Nagaland must implement traditional system of election. We need not consume the poison of Indian system of election. Most politicians try to win by hook or crook, life or death.

The purpose behind every creation

You feel angry, disappointed and sad... Most of us tend to give up trying to effect the change we seek in our family, community...and in our part of the world. But you say to yourself, What can one small man do, but dream away disheartened- pondering and thinking, at times, if God has given up on us. Take heart, beloved brethren. There’s still hope and God ain’t dead! He watches close- silently and patiently- holding onto His Faithfulness and Grace although He may seem far away. Unseen, HE is at work... manifesting and “flowing out of our so called selfassumed hopeless self ”. And so long we have the gift of a new dawn in our hand, we ought to realise, that no matter what we think about our “giving-up-attitude; selves” God still has a purpose for our “leaky life”! And you and I stand to live and play our part in realizing our dream of a better world, and allowing Him to reign in our lives while enacting our given roles which majority of us have been ignoring. Let’s recommit ourselves today and ponder on what, you and I, as individuals can do in order to be used by our Creator to realize our dreams and aspirations for a “cultured and a civilized mankind”. We realize the need and

importance of CHANGE in our society. From a mere public to the great leaders in the present social, economic, religious and political dispensation, mighty talks about the express need of CHANGE have been echoed through political/public platforms, social networking groups and print media. Sadly, the effects of these “talks sans action” have had little/ or no impact. Today’s write up is this writer’s perspective on how to effect Change by a single, disheartened person in our part of the World. We read that the great empires and governments, and wars change the course of history and the face of the World, so sometimes we’re discouraged and think, “Well, who am I? What can I do? It all seems hopeless and IMPOSSIBLE! It looks like there’s nothing that one person can do to change things for the better, so what’s the use of trying, what’s the use of trying anything?”And we are tempted to give up and let the world go to HELL, which it sometimes seems to deserve. But despair not, and don’t give up! The foundation of Change we desire lies within us… If you have changed one life (maybe your life), you have changed a part of the world, and you have proven that there is a Hope and that it can ALL be changed! If one life can be changed then there’s a possibility that more lives can

be changed, whole locality/ region can be changed and the World can be changed, starting with just one person—maybe you! You say, you can’t change the World? It’s too late, too bad, too big, and just too difficult? Well, why don’t you start with your OWN HEART, your OWN MIND, your OWN SPIRIT, and your OWN LIFE? If you’ve even changed your life, you’ve changed a whole universe, the UNIVERSE OF YOUR LIFE. The place and the atmosphere around you will be changed. Change not only your own life but those of your OWN FAMILY, of your OWN HOME! You’ll then have a new home, a new family, with new lives and new spirits filled with the truth and life and love of God. Then the whole home will have been changed, and that’s a whole world, YOUR WORLD! Then your little family can start trying to change the NEIGHBOURS and YOUR FRIENDS, BUSINESS ASSOCIATES or SCHOOLMATES, VISITORS etc. you can start individually, personally, just YOU, your little family, just planting SEEDS one by one, in heart by heart, day by day into that empty hole of an empty heart. It may seem only a little bud at first, just little sprig just one insignificant little green shoot. What is that to the forest that is needed? Well,

IT’S A BEGINNING. It’s a beginning of the miracle of a new life and it will thrive and grow and flourish and become strong, turning into a whole tree, a whole new life, and perhaps a whole new world! SO WHY NOT TRY IT? YOU say you can’t change the World and wait for others or the World to change? – Well, why don’t you try? Why don’t you try changing your part of the World, the World of your life- your family, your neighbors, your town, and JUST SEE WHAT HAPPENS!!! WHEN you do what you are supposed to do, day

They easily induce the commoners towards violence by feeding them day and night. Some villagers in Nagaland were happy to be fed for almost a year. Yes, they must become healthier and stronger to face the enemy. Material happiness in many other forms are supplied at the doorstep to tempt the innocent soul towards wrong living. Some stood firm, while others fell instantly. The fallen ones are also called winners. They have won many friends except their family and close relatives. The highest rate of employment is seen during the time of election. Every unemployed youth is entrusted with some responsibility, from party President to cook. After election, they go back home and continue to yawn inside the kitchen unemployed. On the other side, the women folk become so energetic. They check the flow of liquor in many places but have no single complain in receiving illegal money. There are numerous stern faces to check liquor. They suddenly turn into smiling faces to receive some cash in hand. I have not heard or seen the women folk with a huge catch of money during election. Have you? They know when to close and open their eyes. For some people, drinking is evil, money is good. Whatever is good is also clean. This is called Clean Election. You are clean, the rest are unclean. Such people are the winners of election. All the above winners are in fact losers of selfcontrol. Failure to control oneself can lead us to control others in an aggressive manner. The life of the common man is equally important as the candidate. Even in the darkest occasion, life must be respected. A home made of love and care should not be destroyed. Every life is the life of God, and every home is the dwelling place of God. Whoever goes against another man is also against God. Let us not allow election to dictate our life. We are all greater than election. With prayerful condolences to those who lost their lives and homes during this election. Rev. Fr. G. L. Khing, Kohima

by day, hole by hole, heart by heart, you are bound to reap a harvest. Not all may grow, but surely some would grow healthy to give you a rich harvest. (Matthew 13; 18-23). God works in mysterious ways, and, you and I, no matter how “leaky” we might be, HE still has a purpose for us, and that’d be to firstly, effect change in our lives which may serve as the starting point towards fulfilling HIS purpose behind our creation. Thanking you Sir in anticipation. A. Anato Swu, Satakha, Zunheboto

Reader’s Post

Sir,

An appeal to elected Representatives

Nagaland sheds blood and lost lives during the pre-poll violence which cannot be bought back with the wealth of mankind. Today as you embark on to your new journey called “Government”, the electorates of Nagaland has high hopes and aspirations to see peace and tranquillity in the state which is under the fingertips of your government to put a stop from such bloodshed. As you have had exhaustive days going from place to place wooing the electorates with many positive manifestos and propagandas, the electorates will be looking forward to the promises you had made; we would like to see you having a sleepless nights working for the prospect of the state, bringing back the ‘Dead Nagaland” (Development & Infrastructure) to Live. Idosile, BA 6th semester PGC, Peren

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.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

national/state

1 killed, four injured in bee attack in TN

WCD Ministry announces three proposals under Nirbhaya Fund

Govt slams allegations against I&B as ‘defamatory’

NEW DELHI, MAR 2 (PTI): The government today described as ”defamatory” and “sinister” news report that said the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry has withheld funds meant for paying salaries to employees of Prasar Bharati over an alleged stand-off between the two. The Prasar Bharati in an autonomous body that runs Doordarshan and All India Radio but receives grant from the I&B ministry. “The misinformation is based on ill-will and incorrect appreciation with half baked facts and is tantamount to causing loss of reputation of the Government in public eyes. It is patently defamatory in nature,” the I&B Ministry said in a statement in response to reports in the media, including the news website ‘The Wire’. The Wire quoted Prasar Bharati Chairman A Surya Prakash as saying that the public broadcaster had to pay staff salaries for January and February out of its contingency funds as the ministry had not released the funds. If the standoff continued, the broadcaster will run out of money by April, The Wire said. It said the standoff was the result of differences between I&B

Smriti Irani

Minister Smriti Irani and Prasar Bharati. The government statement said Prasar Bharati is bound by the General Financial Rules (GFR) of the Government of India since it receives grants-in aid from the government. It said that any autonomous organisation that receives grant-in-aid must sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ministry clearly describing physical and financial targets with timelines for activities to be done by utilising the money during that financial year. “For the record, irrespective of repeated reminders from the ministry, no MoU has been signed by Prasar Bharati,” the statement said, without specifically denying Prakash’s claim that the funds had been withheld.

Prakash was not available for comment but other Prasar Bharati officials maintained that there has been a delay in the release of funds previously also, and the latest delay was not out of the ordinary. However, they said that if the issue was not resolved soon it would create problems for Prasar Bharati as it does not have adequate internal funds. The Wire had indicated that the confrontation between the ministry and Prasar Bharati was over the public broadcaster’s refusal to pay nearly Rs 3 crore as fees to a private company hired by the ministry to cover the opening and closing ceremonies of the International Film Festival of India held in Goa recently. It said Doordarshan felt that it had enough expertise and manpower to cover the event itself and there was no need to outsource the job to an outside private company, and then be stuck with the bill for it. The ministry statement described the report as “a deliberate, sinister, motivated campaign...by some elements to wrongfully tarnish the image of the Ministry of I&B by reporting that money to Prasar Bharati

J-K courts connected to prisons through video-conferencing

View of Jammu & Kashmir high court, Srinagar.

SRINAGAR, MAR 2 (PTI): To expedite the process of disposal of cases, courts in Jammu and Kashmir have been connected with jails through videoconferencing. The facility was inaugurated by Jammu and Kashmir High Court justices Alok Aradhe and Ali Muhammad Magrey from the district court complexes in Jammu and Sringar respectively. Aradhe is the chairperson of the computer and e-courts (e-governance) committee while Magrey is the panel’s member. The inauguration was attended by DGP (Prisons) Dilbagh Singh, Commis-

sioner Secretary Home R K Goyal, Secretary Information Technology Saughat Biswas, and other officers of the state administration, prisons department and judiciary. Highlighting its importance, Aradhe said it will minimise the security risk attached with the production of accused before courts. Video-conferencing will be used in recording statements of witnesses during the trial who have difficulty in attending the courts, he said. Terming it an important step in the speedy delivery of justice, Magrey said that video-conferenc-

ing will be used for extending judicial remands of accused before or during trial without producing the under trial prisoners before courts. This will not only save time of courts but it will also save resources of the state which are being spent in producing an accused or under-trial prisoners before courts, he said during an interaction with jail authorities and judicial officers of Srinagar and Jammu. He said the judiciary in the state is fast adopting information technology in judicial processes to provide cost-effective and expeditious services to litigants. Magrey said stakeholders will be able to avail services such as case status, details and list, and short orders through internet or through information kiosks. The kiosks have been set up in various courts across the state. He also said that that video-conferencing facility will also be used in recording statements of specialist witnesses like doctors, forensic experts and others.

is not being released after December, 2017 as a retaliation to Prasar Bharati not obeying certain dictates of the Ministry.” “However, the Ministry would like to reiterate that the Government remains committed to protect the interest of all Prasar Bharti employees,” it said. The Union government earmarked around Rs 2,800 crores in budget 2018-19 towards Prasar Bharati, The Wire said. The allocation is routed through the I&B ministry, which releases money to Prasar Bharati on a monthto-month basis for the salaries of its approximately 5,000 employees, it added. It qouted Prasar Bharati sources as saying that the crisis began after Prakash, who heads the ‘autonomous’ institution, started questioning some of Irani’s “actions”. Apart from rejecting the ministry’s demand that Doordarshan pay the private company Rs 2.92 crore for the film festival event, Prakash and his board have angered Irani by blocking a move to fill two key editorial posts with journalists whose salaries would have been much higher than Prasar Bharati could bear, The Wire reported.

ERODE (TN) MAR 2 (PTI): A devotee was killed and seven others were injured when they were stung by a swarm of bees at a temple in the district, police said. They said the incident occurred yesterday, after some devotees out for a walk around their tents reportedly damaged a big hive in a tree near the Adhi Karuvanrayar temple at Thengumarahatta. The 41-year-old man who was attacked and seriously injured, died at the sathyamangalam government hospital, while the others are still undergoing treatment, police said. This is the second such incident in Erode district On February 4 two devotees were killed and four seriously injured when they were attacked by bees at a temple in Jambai village in the district, where some rituals were being performed.

NEW DELHI, MARCH 2 (IANS): The Ministry of Women and Child Development on Thursday announced three more proposals for women’s safety and security, with a major focus on the safe city project, Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) and a Central Forensic Science Laboratory under the Nirbhaya Fund. The decisions were taken at the 14th meeting of an Empowered Committee of Officers here, chaired by WCD Ministry Secretary Rakesh Srivastava. The Ministry was made the nodal agency for maintaining the Nirbhaya Fund in 2015. The Ministry said that the Safe City project is a major new initiative with a budget of Rs 2,919 crore. It has been prepared in coordination with Municipal Corporations and Police Commissionerates of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and

Lucknow. A model forensic science lab will be set up in Chandigarh entailing an expenditure of Rs 99 crore. “The proposed lab will help address gaps in DNA analysis in sexual assault cases pending in the country. At present, there are six central forensic labs (Chandigarh, Guwahati, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune, and Bhopal) and one state forensic lab in each state/ UT,” the Ministry said. ERSS or panic button application installed on

mobile phones to ensure emergency response to women in distress will be launched in Uttar Pradesh in March 2018. “The panic button will send signal to the nearest police control room and selected friends/family, identifying the location through satellite-based GPS in an emergency. This has been integrated with 112 number -- Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) -- in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs,” it added.

Kerela CM visits lynched tribal’s home; assures of strict action

NRMSATA-2016 demands salary

73.05 percent votes cast in re-poll

(From p-1) N a g a l a n d Po l i c e, CRPF and IRB mahila personnel were deployed in and around the polling station and live webcasting done with additional CCTVs installed for monitoring the re-election. Similarly, re-polling passed off peacefully at polling station no. 7/15 Samziuram ‘A’ under 7 Peren constituency too. According to an official report, 71.70% voters turned out to exercise their franchise. Re-polling also concluded peacefully at Khonga Part 25 and Pungro Town “B” Part 19 polling stations, both under 60 Pungro Kiphire constituency, under high security and in the presence of general observer for Kiphire district. Out of a total 184 voters, 167 voters exercised their franchise at Khonga Part 25, with the voting percentage being pegged at 90.7%. And at Pungro Town “B” Part 19, out of 184 total voters, 630 voters cast their votes, with 54.26% being the voting percentage. Kiphire district was peaceful till the filing of this report.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan interacting with the family members of the deceased.

ATTAPADY (KER), MAR 2 (PTI): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today visited the home of the tribal man, who was lynched here last month for allegedly stealing food articles, and assured his family that stringent action would be taken against the accused. The chief minister, accompanied by Health Minister K K Shylaja, met 30year-old Madhu’s mother, sister and other relatives and gave them the assurance. At least 16 persons have so far been arrested on charges of lynching the mentally chal-

lenged man, whose death had recently triggered outrage in Kerala. In a Facebook post, Vijayan said he visited Madhu’s house, consoled his relatives and assured them that the probe in the case was going ahead and the government would take all steps to ensure that the accused get the punishment as per the law. Stringent action would be taken against those indulging in malicious propaganda in the social media, he said. The chief minister also held discussions with government officials on providing facili-

ties for the tribals. Later talking to reporters, Vijayan said the government would take all steps to ensure that tribals in all districts get enough food, drinking water and employment opportunities. District Collectors would ensure this in their respective areas, he said. The government has also decided to ensure that tribals get at least 200 days of employment, he said. As tribals are facing severe problems relating to liquor addiction, a massive awareness drive would be held in such areas, the chief minister said.

DIMAPUR, MAR 2 (NPN): Nagaland RMSA Teachers’ Association (2016) Friday demanded that the responsible department immediately release their four months’ pending salary. In a press release, NRMSATA-2016 president, Vinoto Achumi, and general secretary, Kezhothito Keyho, cautioned that the teachers would be left with no option but to resort to protest if required. The association maintained out that their salary has been delayed time and again even after receiving funds from the Centre. NRMSATA-2016 stated that delay in releasing salary “gives a clear picture” that the responsible officials do not have any idea that the teachers have not been paid for four months since November 2017. The association while questioning the credibility of the officials responsible for not processing the file lamented that teachers were doing the election duty with an empty pocket. “It’s impossible to continue the service after exhausting all the resources that can be availed,” stated NRMSATA-2016.

People dance during ‘Rangotsav ‘as they celebrate the festival of Holi at P.C.Chandra Garden in Kolkata on Friday. (PTI)

NEW DELHI, MARCH 2 (IANS): Millions of young and old across the country on Friday celebrated Holi, smearing vibrant colours on each other and exchanging sweets to spread joy and welcome the beginning of spring in India. Amid shouts of “Holi Hai” and roadside dances to the beat of drums, people -- rich and poor, Hindus and Muslims and from other religions -- swarmed into public spaces to splash powders of myriad colours on

each other and celebrate the seasonal festival of colours, marking the end of winter. The celebrations began early on Friday morning amid bright sunshine in many parts of the country. People came out of their houses to smear each other with coloured powder, coloured water and mud as well. Families prepared traditional delicacies like ‘gujia’, a sweet fried dumpling made with semolina. The festival which like many Indian festivals is em-

bedded in a Hindu mythology -- that of the triumph of good over evil -- brings together people of all classes and religions who sing and dance, distribute sweets. In Delhi, people were seen dancing to the beats of drums and smearing each others’ faces with ‘abir’ and ‘gulal’, as colours traditionally used in Holi are known. Delhi Police said it had made proper arrangements in case of any hooliganism during the celebrations, requesting the people to obey rules for safe celebration and stay away from drunken driving. Authorities said no untoward incident was reported from anywhere in the national capital where barricades had been set up at many places to check trouble as more than 2,500 traffic policemen were on duty to keep a close watch on those flouting road safety norms and creating problems, particularly for women. As the festival is as-

sociated with revelry and boisterous fun, many were seen consuming ‘bhang’ (an edible preparation of cannbis) to add zest to their celebrations. Youngsters rode motorbikes, throwing colours in the air and shouting ‘Holi hai!’. Similar celebrations were reported from other urban and rural pockets of the country. Children did what they do best - playing pranks by spraying coloured water with “pichkaris” or water guns and hurling waterfilled balloons at passers-by from rooftops and balconies of their houses. Even politicians and celebrities also did not remain far off from the revelry of the day. President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweet greeted the countrymen. Kovind prayed for peace, joy and prosperity in everyone’s lives, remarking that “Holi is a celebration of harmony in our society.

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India celebrates festival of colours - Holi

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business

India one of the ‘most open’ economies: Prabhu

SINGAPORE, Mar 2 (PTI): India is a “very open economy” and wants to have trade relations and pacts with all countries, Union minister Suresh Prabhu Friday told the business community here, ahead of a Regional Comprehensive Economic Cooperation (RCEP) meeting. Prabhu also made a fervent pitch for having a more dynamic, global trading system, as he said India is working with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on the RCEP -- a mega free trade agreement. “India is a very open economy. We want to have trade relationships and trade pacts as continuing as possible, particularly with ASEAN, with which we already have a pact,” the Commerce and Industry minister said in a lecture titled ‘India’s Economic

Suresh Prabhu

Reforms and Global Integration’. The Indian economy, he said, is one of the “most open economies” with a liberal Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in all sectors including defence. “We are also working along with the ASEAN and other neighbours on RCEP, for which I am here,” Prabhu said, adding, “our idea is to get into bilateral and multilateral pacts, as many as possible, to ensure that many countries benefit and we also ben-

efit.” He said that thought these (bilateral and multilateral trade agreements) are “very difficult negotiations” but India is “always ready to be involved and is very positive”. “We want to find out a solution but as you can always understand that domestic interest is always reflected into the talks as it is with all countries including Singapore, ASEAN and RCEP (member countries) who would like to protect (their interests) and India would also like to (do the same),” Prabhu said. “But we are finding a way, whereby we can work together,” the minister said. “Also on a multi-lateral (level), we are very keen (that) we must have a global trading system which would be on a more dynamic way,” he said, citing the success of the World Trade Organisation in managing global trade

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

GDP growth picks up pace

affairs. “Therefore, we are very keen and active participants with a quest to find out a very workable solution to bring in as much global integration as possible so that countries all over benefit from it and benefit in a way that they don’t have to compromise their domestic concern, but at the same time they benefit as well,” he said. RCEP ministers are in Singapore for a ‘closeddoor’ meeting. RCEP envisages regional economic integration, leading to the creation of the largest regional trading bloc in the world. It is currently being negotiated between Asean member states -- Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam -- and Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.

New Delhi, Mar 2 (Agencies): India regained the status of the world’s fastest-growing major economy in the OctoberDecember quarter, driven by a pick-up in growth in manufacturing and services sectors. Gross domestic product or GDP grew 7.2% in the October-December quarter from a year earlier, according to government data. This is the highest quarterly growth recorded since July-September quarter of 2016-17. The growth rate is higher than what the Street had expected. A Reuters poll of more than 35 economists estimated the economy to grow 6.9% in the October-December quarter. China had recorded a growth of 6.8% in the December quarter. India’s GDP or gross domestic product growth had fallen to a three-year low of 5.7% in the AprilJune quarter due to destocking in the run-up to the July 1 launch of the goods and services tax (GST) and a lingering impact of demonetisation. But in JulySeptember quarter, the eco-

nomic growth picked up to a revised 6.5% annually. Meanwhile, for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018, the government revised its GDP growth forecast higher to 6.6% from 6.5% earlier. During the December quarter, the gross valued added (GVA) for manufacturing grew at 8.9% higher than 6.9% in the previous quarter. Similarly, the farm sector GVA grew at 4.1% compared to 2.7% in the previous quarter. The construction sector recorded a growth of 6.8%, higher than 2.8% in previous quarter. The services segment including financial services grew at rate of 6.7% up from 6.4% in previous quarter. Separately, infrastructure output grew by a strong 6.7% in January from a year ago, government data showed on Wednesday. The growth in output compares with an upwardly revised 4.2% year-on-year growth in December. Infrastructure output, which comprises eight sectors such as coal, crude oil and electricity, accounts for nearly 40% of industrial output.

Economists widely expect India’s GDP growth to accelerate further this year. “Settling down of Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms will boost growth in next fiscal year,” said Anita Gandhi, a director at Arihant Capital Markets. Moody’s Investors Service estimates India to grow at 7.6% in calendar year 2018 and 7.5% in 2019, amid signs of economic recovery from impact of demonetisation and GST. The Indian economy is in a high growth mode and 7.2% expansion in the December quarter marks its return as the fastest growing major economy in the world, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said. He said strong fixed capital growth also indicates that investment is picking up very well and agriculture and services have performed quite well. “Very encouraging and solid 3rd quarter growth numbers from CSO. 7.2% growth marks return of India as the highest growing major economy in the world,” Mr Garg said in a tweet.

Steel demand pick-up positive for industry: ICRA Kolkata, Mar 2 (PTI): Domestic steel demand has grown by 5.2% during the first nine months of 2017-18 which is positive for the industry, rating agency ICRA has said. The rise in demand was aided by a buoyancy in the automobile sector and recovery in the construction and capital goods sectors, the agency said in a statement. Going forward, ICRA expects domestic consumption growth to be favourable in the backdrop of the government’s thrust on infrastructure, particularly in affordable housing and power transmission segments. “A combination of favourable factors like domestic demand rise in domestic and international markets and lower growth in imports would help the sector in the days forward,” ICRA said. In a sample study of 22 large and mid-sized steel companies accounting for about 60% of present internal capacity of the industry, ICRA found that operating margins in the third quarter of the current fiscal had increased along with better interest cost coverage.

Small growers’ contribution Home, auto loan EMIs to go up Centre directs PSBs to consolidate 35 overseas operations rise; Tea Board voices concern as SBI, PNB hike lending rates

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growth in volumes at 44,505 units against 42,327 units in February last year. The company, which had recently launched a new version of the Verna sedan, said comfortable economic growth and steady interest rates and fuel prices have helped achieve higher numbers. Ford India witnessed a rise in demand as sales grew to 9,041 units against 8,338 units. “Improvements in GDP growth and other industry indicators continue to support year-on-year growth of the auto industry,” Anurag Mehrotra, president and MD of Ford India, said.

No. 8797 Yesterday’s solution No. 8796

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No. 2442 Yesterday’s solution No. 2441

Across 1 A daughter’s choice — one way to create a family (8) 5 Repeat what is said in the newspaper? (4) 8 Search messily for a firearm (5) 9 Homeless person happy to occupy recess (3,4) 11 Very old African party that is not without love (7) 12 Mushy peas entertaining old story-teller (5) 13 Top cow (6) 15 Spies coming back for items in canteen? (6) 18 Bones one associated with fish (5) 20 Get high at first with father in capital (7) 23 Leader in priesthood, say (7) 24 Child starts to behave and is rarely naughty (5) 25 A job to do — to ask if nothing’s missing (4) 26 One runs out of clothes (8) Down 1 Vessel seen in Zambia or Tanzania (5) 2 One gets caught, hugged by tender policeman (7) 3 Film music from Keith Emerson (5) 4 Paths of planets or particles? (6) 6 Garments ordered for Ascot (5) 7 A Greek mountain could be so lumpy! (7) 10 Get hold of good tool (5) 13 Knave gets trophy and big winnings (7) 14 Some American girl (5) 16 Devil seen in former police station? (3,4) 17 Missing suspect’s first to stop a criminal (6) 19 Birds share nuts (5) 21 Clark up on the roof? (5) 22 Half-hearted meal served here? (5)

Mumbai, Mar 2 (PTI): Two state-run lenders State Bank of India and Punjab National Bank raised their lending rates by up to 20 basis points, a move that will increase the interest rates on existing as well as home, auto loans and personal loans. While the nation’s largest lender SBI raised its one year MCLR (marginal cost of fund-based lending rate) by 20 basis points (bps) to 8.15 per cent, PNB increased its loan prices by 15 bps to 8.30 per cent. The lending rate hike by these lenders come even as the Reserve Bank has been in an accommodative/ neutral stance since January 2015. The present RBI rate or repo rate is 5.75 per cent now. Even in the last policy review early last month, the central bank had sounded more accommodative than hawkish even though it increased its inflation forecast. Defending the hike that will hurt all borrowers, especially the individual borrowers the most, SBI said “in the past one month, liquidity situation, which used to be in

surplus has become neutral or maybe in a minor deficit mode. “Also bond yields have gone up by around 125-150 basis points over the past few months. Given the liquidity situation, some alignment was required and it has been done today,” SBI managing director and head of retail and digital banking PK Gupta said. The lending rate hike also comes in the wake of banks as a whole seeing pick-up in credit demand. After many years of low single-digit credit growth, the quarterly loan demand crossed the double-digit mark at close to 11 per cent in the three months to December 2017. Gupta said even after this increase, SBI’s lending rate is marginally lower than what other banks are offering. “Earlier, the whole market was in a downward cycle but now the feeling is that the risk for inflation is on the upside only. We think that the downward cycle is over and the rate should probably

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remain stable around the current rates for some time,” Gupta of SBI said. The State Bank raised its six-month MCLR by 10 bps to 8 per cent, while its three-year loan pricing goes up by 25 bps to 8.35 per cent. The Delhi-based PNB, which is firefighting the largest financial fraud in the country and staring at a possible loss of around Rs 13,000 crore, has also followed its larger per hiked its one year MCLR rate by 15 bps to 8.30 per cent. PNB, which is the second largest public sector lender, also raised the overnight, one-month, three-month and six- month rates by 15 bps to 7.80 per cent, 7.95 per cent, 8.10 per cent and 8.25 per cent, respectively.

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NEW DELHI, Mar 2 (Agencies): New models fuelled car sales growth in February as companies such as Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors posted higher volumes on healthy demand. However, with interest rates moving up, companies fear that the going may be tough in coming months. Maruti saw a 13% growth in numbers at 1.4 lakh units against 1.2 lakh units in the same month last year. The company launched new-generation Swift hatchback at the Delhi Auto Expo in February. Hyundai had a relatively slower

BLFs were paying pittance to the small growers for purchasing green leaf, making them to sustain at subsistence levels, Bezbaruah said. The proportion of contribution of small growers has been the highest in south India, followed by West Bengal and Assam. Bezbaruah said that there was a need to pluck good quality green leaf also, which was hardly practiced by the small growers and some composite gardens at the moment. The small growers are plucking big-sized leaves and a bud to raise production, he said. This practice, according to him, is reducing the quality of tea. In such a situation, the Tea Board has been trying to sensitize the growers on plucking good quality tea leaves and also finding means to raise internal demand.

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Kolkata, Mar 2 (PTI): Contribution of small growers in the context of overall tea production has been growing to touch almost 50 per cent as per 2017 estimates, according to Indian Tea Association (ITA). The Tea Board feels the trend does not augur well and could cause “disruption” in the market. In 2017, total production during January-December period was 1,348.84 million kilograms, while the estimated contribution of the small growers was 631.69 million kg. Tea Board chairman P K Bezbaruah told PTI that unless the demand goes up, this trend would destabilise the entire industry and cause disruption. He said that the production cost of the bought leaf factories (BLF) and the small growers was low when compared to the established composite gardens. On top of that, the

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joint ventures, subsidiaries, remittance centres and representative offices. As per the Secretary of the Department of Financial Services(DFS), Rajeev Kumar, the proposal of consolidation aims to improve cost efficiency and synergies in the overseas market. The ministr y confirmed that a total of 216 overseas operations will be examined to ease the

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New Delhi, Mar 2 (Agencies): In the wake of the recent banking scams reported, the government has directed public sector banks (PSBs) to consolidate nearly 35 overseas operations without affecting the banks’ international presence in these countries. In this regard, 69 operations were identified for further examination, including bank branches,

international

Israeli police grill Netanyahu in telecoms corruption case

JERUSALEM, MAR 2 (AGENCIES): Israeli police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday for the first time in a corruption case that involves the country’s largest telecommunications company, Israel Radio said. According to Reuters report, along with two other corruption cases, in which Netanyahu is suspected of bribery, the probes announced in February pose a serious threat to the fourterm prime minister’s political survival. Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing in all the cases. In the newest investigation, known as Case 4000, police allege that the owners of Bezeq Israel Telecom provided favorable coverage of Netanyahu and his wife on a news website they controlled in return for favors from communications regulators. The company has denied wrongdoing. A police spokesman declined comment on the report that the prime minister was questioned. A Reuters cameraman saw a vehicle

FILE -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends the weekly cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister’s office in Jerusalem February 25, 2018.

carrying two police officers pull into the prime minister’s official residence on Friday morning. Netanyahu’s wife Sara was also questioned at the same time as her husband, at a police station near Tel Aviv, her lawyer told Reuters. Sara Netanyahu’s interview took place under caution that she might be named as a suspect, the lawyer said. Israeli media said the controlling shareholder of Bezeq Telecom, Shaul Elovitch, and Nir Hefetz, a former Netanyahu spokesman, were also being questioned. They are both in custody

and have denied wrongdoing. A representative for Elovitch had no immediate comment and Hefetz’s lawyer did not respond to a request for comment. Shlomo Filber, a confidant of Netanyahu and former director general of the Communications Ministry, has also been arrested in connection with the case. Israeli media have reported that he has agreed to turn state’s witness. About 70 protesters gathered outside the prime minister’s residence, demanding he step down. “We want to see Ne-

Brexit: May to outline vision for ‘deepest’ EU trade deal LO N D O N, M A R 2 (AGENCIES): British Prime Minister Theresa May is promising to tell an impatient European Union on Friday what Britain is prepared to give and what it wants to take in a postBrexit trade deal with the bloc, reports AP. In a speech aimed at answering critics who accuse Britain of failing to grasp the tough realities of leaving the EU, May will call for “the broadest and deepest possible agreement — covering more sectors and cooperating more fully than any free trade agreement anywhere in the world today.” May’s office says she will say Britain wants to maintain “high standards” of regulation, like the EU’s, while having the right to diverge from EU rules over time. She will say that Britain’s joint aims are “a bold and comprehensive economic partnership with our neighbors in the EU, and reaching out beyond to fos-

Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May greets EU Council President Donald Tusk at 10 Downing Street in London, March 1, 2018.

ter trade agreements with nations across the globe.” That could be seen by the EU as cherry-picking benefits of membership, something it insists Britain can’t do. The U.K. is due to leave the EU in March 2019, but the two sides have yet to negotiate new arrangements for trade, security, aviation and a host of other fields. E U l e a d e r s h av e warned that May’s insistence on leaving the EU’s

single market and customs union makes the close ties she is seeking impossible. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, an opponent of Brexit, said May could no longer get away with “vacuous, meaningless rhetoric.” Sturgeon tweeted that May’s speech “must set out exactly HOW she intends to achieve her (seemingly contradictory and unachievable if we leave single market/ customs union) objectives.”

tanyahu go to trial and, if needed, go to jail or go home. Let our people go free from all the corruption surrounding the government and the head of it,” said Shimrit Orr, 72, a writer, from Tel Aviv. Some cars beeped their horns in support as they drove by. “A prime minister under investigation cannot, and may not, take crucial decisions,” said Shuki Cohen, 63, an economist from Moshav Arugot. The rightwing prime minister has been Israel’s dominant political figure for a generation, in power since 2009 and for 12 years in total since 1996. He calls the allegations against him a “witch hunt” and has said he will seek a fifth term in an election due in late 2019. Police recommended in February that Netanyahu be indicted in two other corruption investigations. The attorney-general must determine whether to accept the police recommendation to charge him. The final decision on both cases could take months.

NATO objects Putin’s warning to its allies B R U S S E L S, M A R 2 (AGENCIES): President Vladimir Putin’s warnings to NATO allies are “unacceptable” and do not help efforts to calm tensions, the alliance said on Friday, a day after the Russian leader announced an array of new nuclear weapons, reports Reuters. Already angry at NATO’s expansion eastwards into its old Soviet sphere of influence, Putin said in a speech on Thursday that any attack on Moscow’s allies would be regarded as an attack on Russia itself and draw an immediate response. While it was unclear which ally Putin had in mind, the U.S.-led NATO said the speech, one of the Russian leader’s most bellicose in years, did not help calm tensions that have surged since Russia seized Ukraine’s Crimea four years ago. “Russian statements threatening to target allies are unacceptable and counterproductive,” NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu said in a statement.

Myanmar defends troop build-up on B’desh border YA N G O N, M A R 2 (AGENCIES): Myanmar on Friday defended deploying fresh troops to a border zone with Bangladesh where thousands of Rohingya refugees are camped, blaming a militant threat as Dhaka called for an immediate retreat to lower tensions along the troubled frontier, reports AFP. The increased security presence this week has centred around a strip of “no man’s land” between the two countries where some 6,000 Rohingya sought shelter after fleeing a brutal Myanmar army crackdown last August. The military campaign drove some 700,000 Rohingya across the border in total, with most travelling on to sprawling refugee settlements in Bangladesh’s southeastern border district of Cox’s Bazar. The UN has accused Myanmar of waging an ethnic cleansing campaign against the Muslim minority. Yet Myanmar has staunchly defended the crackdown as an effort to snuff out Rohingya militants who raided police posts last year. The recent spike in security along the border is a response to new intel-

EU, ASEAN to strengthen trade, investment ties BANGKOK, MAR 2 (IANS): The European Union Commissioner for Trade on Friday met with her counterparts from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Singapore to strengthen ties in trade and investment between both blocs. In her speech during a business forum, Cecilia Malmstrom highlighted the importance and growth of the Asian market and said that the progress of forging interregional agreements between the EU and ASEAN is moving forward, Efe reported. Malmstrom and the Southeast Asian trade ministers also seek to advance negotiations on possible trade agreements. During the two-day visit, the European Commissioner for Trade will also meet in Singapore with European entrepreneurs working in the region. Headquartered in Jakarta, the ASEAN was founded in 1967 and is composed of Myanmar, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Thai junta allows pol parties to register

BA N G KO K , M A R 2 (AGENCIES): At least 42 prospective political parties have submitted registrations to Thailand’s Election Commission after the military government that has run the country since 2014 allowed new parties to form ahead of polls supposed to be held by next February, reports AP. Registration is just the start of the process, and does not automatically mean the parties have been officially recognized. They must satisfy a raft of requirements within 180 days and still need the junta’s permission to operate. Submissions are being accepted from Friday through March 31. There is skepticism about the announced election date because several previously promised deadlines were pushed back, and in announcing the February date last week, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha suggested it is conditional on the political situation remaining calm. There is also speculation that some parties are being established to support the military’s continued dominance over the government. They would support having Prayuth remain the country’s leader under a new constitutional clause that allows the next parlia-

BEIRUT/GENEVA, MAR 2 (AGENCIES): Syrian government forces aim to advance into the eastern Ghouta region one “bite” at a time, a pro-government commander said on Friday, as a war monitor said the army had seized new ground from rebels, reports Reuters. In one of the deadliest offensives of the war, government air strikes and bombardment have killed hundreds of people over 12 days in eastern Ghouta, an area of besieged towns and farms that is the last major rebel-controlled area near the capital. U.S. President Donald Trump spoke to the leaders of France and Germany about the situation on Friday. France said President Emmanuel Macron and Trump agreed to work together to implement a U.N.backed ceasefire that has failed to stop the onslaught, and called on Russia to get Damascus to abide by it. The Security Council on Saturday called for a 30-day countrywide truce. Russia, which backs the Syrian government in the war, has instead called for daily humanitarian ceasefires from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (0700 GMT to 1200 GMT). The U.S. State Department on Thursday dismissed Russia’s humanitarian ceasefire plan as “a joke”, saying people were afraid to leave the area through a “humanitarian corridor”

Men sit in a damaged truck in the besieged town of Douma in eastern Ghouta in Damascus, Syria, March 1, 2018.

because of fear of conscription, exile or death. The war has escalated on several fronts this year, with the collapse of Islamic State giving way to other conflicts between Syrian and international parties, including Turkey which said eight more of its soldiers had been killed fighting Kurdish militias in the Afrin area of northwestern Syria. Government forces, including the elite Tiger Force, have been attacking rebels in the Maraj area of the Ghouta for several days. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Friday they had captured two villages - Hawsh al-Dawahra and Hawsh Zreika - in addition to hills and farmland. Rebel sources could not immediately be reached for comment on Friday. The spokesman for Jaish al-Islam, one of the main Ghouta rebel groups,

ZHUIKHU GHAMI KUPOSHUKULU, DIMAPUR

(Zhuikhu Village Union Dimapur) ZGKD extends hearty congratulations to Shri Inalo Zhimomi, S/o Edward Zhimomi for being promoted to District & Sessions Judge. DP-1718

Dr. Kakheto Zhimomi President, ZGKD

he added. On Thursday Bangladesh’s foreign ministry said it summoned Myanmar’s envoy to call for an “immediate pullback of Myanmar security forces along with military assets from the area.” In recent weeks the Rohingya living in the no man’s land strip have faced growing pressure from Myanmar soldiers, who have stepped up patrols

along the barbed-wire border fence near the camp and ordered the group to leave over loudspeakers. On Thursday some 100 Myanmar soldiers arrived near the refugee camp in heavy military vehicles, according to Bangladesh border guards and Rohingya. The heightened tensions will do little to speedup a stalled repatriation plan signed by the neighbours in January.

ment, parties must have at least 500 registered members and 1 million baht ($31,770) in funds to qualify for registration. A range of political groups were present at the Election Commission on Friday to register for the much-anticipated elections. Election Commission Secretar y-General Jarungvith Phumma said the turnout “shows that people have drive and belief in democracy.” Among the parties suspected of fronting for the military is the New Phalangdharma Party, whose leader, Ravee Machamadol, said that if the situation calls for an outsider prime minister, that’s what his party would support.

said on Thursday government forces had tried to divert their attention by opening a new front in the Hazerma area while also waging battles in nearby Hawsh al-Dawahra. Rebels had used artillery fire to disable two tanks. The commander in the military alliance that backs Assad said government forces had taken some villages on the Maraj area. Government forces had also made “notable” advances on the western edge of the rebel enclave at Harasta, he said. The Observatory said gov-

ernment forces had seized a group of buildings in that area. “What is happening at present is biting and taking some villages from the eastern side,” the commander told Reuters. The Observatory says the government bombardment of Ghouta has killed 617 people since Feb. 18, while intensified rebel shelling of government-held areas of Damascus has killed 27. Assad has steadily won back territory from rebels with critical military backing from Russia and Iran. With no sign of decisive Western pressure, eastern Ghouta appears on course to eventually fall to government forces too. Damascus appears to be applying tried and tested military means, combining air strikes and bombardment with ground assaults, as it did to recapture eastern Aleppo from rebels including groups that once received U.S. support. While Washington has backed away from supporting rebels fighting to topple Assad, Iranian and Russian military aid to the government has remained steadfast.

The Chakhroma Youth Organisation would like to congratulate Nagaland U21 Team crowned Champion in the recently concluded Dr. T. Ao Memorial Gold Cup held at Guwahati 2018. The Organisation would specially thank and congratulates Mr. Neithovilie Chalieu who has brought laurels to the people of Chakhroma for being awarded the Best Goal Keeper, Hero of the Match and Player of the Tournament. Further the CYO expressed its heartiest congratulations and wishes him best of luck in his future endeavours. Sd/Information and Publicity, CYO DP-1726 OFFICE OF THE

OFFICE OF THE

ligence about the movement of Rohingya militants, said Myanmar government spokesman Zaw Htay. “We acted this way based on the information we got regarding terrorism, especially the ARSA movement,” he told AFP, using an acronym for the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, a militant group, and declining to elaborate further. “It was not aimed at antagonising Bangladesh,”

ment to choose an unelected “outsider” prime minister. After ousting an elected gover nment in May 2014, the military regime introduced a ban on political activities, citing the need to avoid disorder. Thailand had been wracked by occasionally violent political fighting between supporters and opponents of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra after he was ousted in a 2006 coup. Disruptive street protests by anti-Thaksin demonstrators beginning in late 2013 led to the takeover by the army, which has sought to prevent a comeback by Thaksin’s powerful political machine. Under a new Political Parties Act, introduced by the junta-appointed parlia-

Syrian govt. seizes ground in Ghouta advance

CONGRATULATORY NOTE

An increased Myanmar security presence has centred around a strip of “no man’s land” at the border with Bangladesh.

Representatives of Pheu Chart Thai Party register to set up the political party at the Election Commission Bangkok, Thailand, March 2, 2018.

WOKHA TOWN WOKHAE EKHUNG (WTWE)

MIZPAH CLUB, HENINGKUNGLWA PEREN : NAGALAND

HQ- WOKHA, NAGALAND

NOTIFICATION The Wokha Town Wokhae Ekhung (WTWE) with general consensus impeached Shri. Benathung Humtsoe from the post of General Secretary (WTWE). All executive power vested on him shall be nullified with immediate effect. Sd/Chairman WTWE DC-483

Date: 2/3/2018

CONGRATULATIONS Mizpah Club of Heningkunglwa Village, district : Peren expresses our heartiest congratulations to our member Mr. Asie Iralu on being promoted to Assistant Director in the School Education Department, Government of Nagaland. As you take on greater responsibility in the Government hierarchy, may you always be a great asset to the Govt. and to the society. Ahube Iralu Chairman Mizpah Club Heningkunglwa Peren : Nagaland

Kwerangchung Thou General Secretary Mizpah Club Heningkunglwa Peren : Nagaland

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

Infotainment

W ho is the wealthiest hip-hop act of 2018?

‘Living Biblically’ creator wants to bring religion to primetime

Keith Richards throws shade at Taylor Swift, again

he Rolling Stones‘ Keith Richards has suggested that Taylor Swift‘s success might be short-lived. Despite Swift joining The Stones on stage to perform ‘As Tears Go By‘ in 2013, the veteran guitarist has now issued her an ultimatum via the Wall Street Journal, telling her: “Good luck girl — wish her well while it lasts.’ He continued: “I’ve just been around too long to be picking the bones out of kids. It wouldn’t be fair of me and I’ve always been an opinionated bastard anyway. And I never did really like pop music ― even when I became pop music, I was listening to the blues and jazz and not interested in the hits.” This echoes comments he made several years ago when he told GQ Magazine: “Taylor is a pretty girl… (but she’s just a) flavour of the month.” Speaking of the honour of performing with The Stones, Swift described it as ‘the best moment ever‘. “The whole band, they’re so welcoming and wonderful and approachable and all the things you would hope your heroes would be,” she said. “It’s wonderful getting that phone call. Like, ‘Hey, would you like to go and play with The Rolling Stones?’ That is a bold, underlined, exclamation point ‘Yes’!” Both Taylor Swift and the Rolling Stones will be heading out on tours of their own later this year. Today saw Taylor Swift confirm support acts for her tour, where she’ll be joined by Charli XCX and K Y M C

Camila Cabello. Tickets to The Rolling Stones’ tour meanwhile, went on sale today. The band also made headlines this week when drummer Charlie Watts denied that David Bowie was a musical genius. (NME)

want to get more prepared and better at touring and better at things that make money,” he told Forbes in 2013. “If I’m not on your list this year, I’d be gravely disappointed…That’s pretty much my objective every year, other than making good music.” Jay-Z has been making the most of his money, as he recently racked up a massive bar tab at a New York bar – and left a pretty generous tip for staff. Meanwhile, fans have been speculating whether Beyoncé and husband Jay-Z will be announcing a joint UK tour, after eagle-eyed gig-goers spotted a ‘Beyoncé and Jay-Z tickets’ landing page on UK Ticketmaster. (NME)

-Men fans have a lot to be thankful for as it’s been revealed that eight X-Men movies are set to hit the big screen over the next three years. Disney acquired the rights and assets of Twentieth Century Fox back in December last year, but it’s looking like this won’t affect the output of X-Men movies that are already in development with Twentieth Century Fox. As it stands, two XMen movies will be released this year – a ‘Deadpool’ sequel on 18 May, and ‘XMen: Dark Phoenix’ on 2 November. It has already been confirmed that X-Force character Domino will appear in ‘Deadpool 2‘, with

both Janelle Monae and Kerry Washington linked to the role. The Hollywood Reporter reports that a further three X-Men films will arrive in 2019, with three more expected in 2020. One of the films for 2019 will be ‘The New Mutants’, which was pushed back from a 2018 release. The movie – starring ‘Game of Thrones‘ actress Maisie Williams – is now due for release on 22 February, 2019. X-Men spin-off, ‘Gambit’ is currently scheduled for release on 14 February, 2019, however it’s not known whether the departure of three directors will cause the film to be delayed.

Gore Verbinski followed in the footsteps of previous directors Rupert Wyatt and Doug Lipman by quitting, after joining the project last year. The film is still without a director. ‘Gambit’ is set to star Channing Tatum as the titular mutant. Meanwhile, Jennifer Lawrence has explained why she is returning to the ‘X-Men’ franchise, after her contract expired with 2016’s ‘X-Men: Apocalypse’. Marvel creator and XMen co-creator, Stan Lee, recently revealed that he’s been fighting pneumonia, letting fans know via a video that he’s been sick, but is hoping to recover soon. (NME)

Trump fires back after Alec Baldwin ‘agony’ remark

nyone wondering what President D o n a l d Tr u m p thinks of Alex Baldwin’s impression of him on “Saturday Night Live” no longer has to wonder. The president tweeted about it Friday morning. “Alec Baldwin, whose dying mediocre career was saved by his terrible impersonation of me on SNL, now says playing me was agony. Alec, it was agony for those who were forced to watch. Bring back Darrell Hammond, funnier and a far greater talent!” the president wrote. Donald J. Trump @ realDonaldTrump Alec Baldwin, whose dying mediocre career was saved by his terrible impersonation of me on SNL,

now says playing me was agony. Alec, it was agony for those who were forced to watch. Bring back Darrell Hammond, funnier and a far greater talent! (Hammond, of course, was best known for portraying Bill Clinton.) The tweet, which appeared around 6 a.m., was actually Trump’s second of the day about Baldwin. It followed a previous tweet

that referred to the actor as “Alex” and also misspelled “dying” as “dieing.” The errant tweet was removed when the replacement appeared. The tweets were apparently Trump’s reaction to an interview that Baldwin gave to the Hollywood Reporter, in which Baldwin was promoting his upcoming talk show on ABC. The magazine asks

Baldwin how much longer he intends to portray Trump on the NBC show. Baldwin’s response: “Every time I do it now, it’s like agony. Agony. I can’t. If things don’t go in the right direction for the midterms. … “ Baldwin then takes a direct shot at the president: “I could go out on the street, stand on any corner and tap 10 people on the shoulder. And all 10 of them, in all likelihood, would be more qualified — ethically, morally, intellectually and spiritually — than Trump. I’ll vote for Mitt Romney. I don’t care. Anybody over this guy. It doesn’t matter. We have to get rid of him.” (FoxNews)

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35TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

VIKHEYI AWOMI & ASHILI AWOMI WITH EVERY PASSING YEARS, YOU ARE THE LIVING EMBODIMENT OF A GREAT MARRIAGE. MAY YOU TOGETHER GROW IN YOUR LOVE FOR EACH OTHER ALWAYS. YOU DESERVE THE HAPPIEST ANNIVERSARY. From loving Sons, daughter, in-laws and grandchildren

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Diddy wasn’t knocked far from the top spot, as he ranks at number two, with $825 million (£599 million). Dr Dre is in the third spot, with a net worth of $770 million (£559 million). His increasing wealth is thanks to a nine-figure windfall from Apple’s $3 billion buyout of Beats in 2014. Wealth drops dramatically after the top three, with Drake and Eminem tying fourth and fifth place, with a net worth of $100 million (£73 million) each. Drake – who gave away almost $1 million in his ‘God’s Plan’ video – has been wanting to make the Forbest list since 2013. “Every year, we just

in with his parents, what have you. I met with Johnny Galecki, and he had the rights to this book and said he wanted to do a comedy about religion and I couldn’t believe it,” Walsh told Fox News in a phone interview. “Especially on a major network, it’s just not done. There has not really been a comedy about religion, to my knowledge.” While Walsh, who wrote the premiere episode of the series, is excited about the idea of bringing religion to primetime, the controversy that one could encounter when faith is not lost on him. The pilot e pisode, which garnered positive reactions from viewers on social media, took great pains to not turn people of faith or non-believers off with its premise. Walsh said the series had a consulting priest and rabbi that were honorary members of the writing staff to help get the scholarly details right. However, the creator hopes to speak to secular people and how religion comes up in their day-to-day lives as well. (FoxNews)

A whopping six X-Men films will be released over two years

DC-478

ay-Z has been named the wealthiest hip-hop act of 2018, according to Forbes’ annual list. Forbest released their ‘Hip-hop’s wealthiest artists 2018‘ list today, which showed that Jay-Z had taken the crown from Diddy, who was named 2017’s wealthiest last year. This is the first time the rapper has topped the list. Forbes reports that Jay-Z increased his net worth from $810 million (£589 million) to $900 million (£654 million) over the past year. This is apparenty thanks to the rising value of his interests in Armand de Brignac champagne and D’Ussé cognac, as well as his huge stakes in Roc Nation and Tidal.

atrick Walsh has been in the TV business for a long time. However, with his new show, “Living Biblically,” he’s excited to do something new and bring something to the world of sitcoms that’s been considered taboo for many years, religion. The writer and producer, best known for his work on sitcoms like “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and “2 Broke Girls,” teamed up with “Big Bang Theory” star Johnny Galecki to create a series that tackles religious themes while simultaneously welcoming audiences of all creeds and backgrounds. “Living Biblically,” based on AJ Jacobs’ book “The Year of Living Biblically,” focuses on a main character named Chip who, in an effort to become a better man before the birth of his first child, decides to live his life to the literal letter of the Bible. “I was looking to write a show, and you can either pitch your own idea or kind of hear what the town has available. I was just hearing a lot of pitches that all sounded vaguely the same. You know - young people dating or a guy moves back

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

K Y M C

Russian athletes shine at World Indoor C’ships

Russia’s gold medal winner Mariya Lasitskene makes an attempt in the women’s high jump final at the World Athletics Indoor Championships. (AP/PTI)

Birmingham, Mar 2 (IANS): Russia’s Danil Lysenko captured the men’s high jump title while his compatriot Mariya Lasitskene won the women’s gold on the opening day’s competition of the World Indoor Championships. Lysenko, competing as an authorised neutral athlete on Thursday, gained revenge on Mutaz Essa Barshim of Qatar for his defeat in last year’s London World Championships, Xinhua news agency reported. The 20-year-old extended his 2018 win streak to nine by clearing 2.36 metres as against the Olympic silver medalist’s best effort of 2.33m. Having registered lifetime bests on three occasions this winter campaign with 2.35m, 2.36m and 2.37m respectively, Lysenko’s Birmingham victory marks his first major international title in an event he only began

competing in five years ago. Enjoying first-time clearances at 2.20m, 2.25m, 2.29m and 2.33m, he needed all three attempts at 2.36m before sailing over on his final chance to deny Barshim the opportunity of a jumpoff contest for gold. The bronze medal wento Germany’s Mateusz Przybylko, who registered a second-time clearance at 2.29m for his first major international championship medal. China’s Wang Yu, European junior champion Maksim Nedasekau of Belarus and 2007 world champion Donald Thomas of The Bahamas finished joint sixth at 2.20m. Lasitskene won her second world indoor title following her 2014 victory by topping 2.01m with her second attempt for her 38th straight victory, eight centimeters higher than the rest of the field. The field of challengers

trailed far behind. Just four jumpers remained in contention at 1.96m, a height none could manage. Defending champion Vashti Cunningham of the United States won the silver with 1.93m and Italy’s Alesia Trost took the bronze by clearing 1.93m with her second attempt. In the women’s 3,000m final, Ethiopia’s Genzebe Dibaba won the title for the third time in a row after beating world 5000m champion Hellen Obiri, 2016 world indoor 1,500m champion Sifan Hassan and double European indoor champion Laura Muir. Dibaba, who won the event in 2014 and 2016, clocked eight minutes and 45.05 seconds, ahead of Dutchwoman SHassan in 8:45.68 and Britain’s Muir in 8:45.68. It was also Dibaba’s fourth world indoor title. She won the 1,500m event at the 2012 World Indoor Championships.

sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

BCCI’s refusal leaves Pak tournament in doubt

KARACHI, Mar 2 (PTI): The BCCI’s refusal to send its team to the Asia Emerging Nations Cup scheduled in Pakistan this April has put a question mark on the tournament’s organisation in the country. An official in the Pakistan Cricket Board said that since India was not willing to send its team to Pakistan, the Asia Emerging Nations Cup could be shifted to either Sri Lanka or Bangladesh. “We agreed to host the event in April this year on the understanding that all nations would participate in it,” he said. PCB chairman Najam Sethi told the media in Dubai that as head of the Asian Cricket Council, he would soon be calling a meeting of the ACC in Colombo to take final decisions on the Asia Emerging Nations Cup and Asia Cup, scheduled to be held in In-

dia in September. He said Pakistan’s participation in the Asia Cup in India was also subject to conditions. India has steadfastly refused to play Pakistan in a bilateral series since the 2008 terror attack in Mumbai. And even in the ICC and ACC forums, it has been reluctant to give any concessions to Pakistan. Sethi also made it clear that his participation in the ICC board meetings in Kolkata in April would be dependent on whether the ICC could obtain a visa for him from India. “I have no interest in traveling to India. If the Indian authorities issue a visa I will go if not the ICC should see,” he said. Sethi also said that the next meeting of the ACC would be conclusive as venues and dates for the Asian Emerging Nations and Asia Cup events would be decided.

Women will ‘soon’ be allowed at games in Iran: Infantino

ZURICH, Mar 2 (Agencies): FIFA President Gianni Infantino received assurances from Iran that female fans will “soon” be allowed into soccer stadiums after they were blocked from getting into a game he attended in Tehran. Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency cited the interior ministry as saying about 35 women were stopped from entering the Azadi Stadium on Thursday for a game between Esteqlal and Persepolis and “were instructed to a proper place by police.” Amid criticism of the

trip, Infantino opened a FIFA equality conference on Friday by claiming the trip could help “many women around the world” while acknowledging he was reluctant to be heard “criticizing anyone.” “I hope, I am confident, I was promised that women in Iran will have access to football stadiums soon,” Infantino said at FIFA headquarters in Zurich. “We will see but I hope this experience which I made only yesterday afternoon can maybe help many, many women around the world.”

Bairstow fit to face New Zealand Wellington, Mar 2 (Agencies): Jonny Bairstow has declared himself fit for England’s third ODI against New Zealand in Wellington on Saturday. The Yorkshireman twisted an ankle when he stepped on his own water bottle while fielding on the boundary in Wednesday’s win at Mount Maunganui. Bairstow likened the incident to the time when Glenn McGrath was injured warming up at Edgbaston during the 2005 Ashes. “It’s one of those things - a freak thing like Glenn McGrath standing on that ball,” he said on Friday. “I had just been signing a couple of kids’ autographs, I turned round and stood on the water bottle. It was my own water bottle which made it even more of a kick in the teeth. (But) life goes on - I’m fine for tomorrow.” England’s one-day international opener, and Test wicketkeeper, excels in all formats of the game but he has made it clear that he prizes his Test career above all else. Bairstow, who has won 50 Test caps, does not disparage ODI teammates Adil Rashid and Alex Hales’ decision to relegate Test ambitions by agreeing white-ball-only county contracts, but he will not be following suit

A year has passed and things have changed without you. Life is filled with heartaches and sorrows. Never would have thought, very soon a day to remember you in such a way but the journey of life is uncertain. Your legacy of wisdom for life will always be an inspiration towards us. Though the journey of life together wasn’t as long as we thought but love will bring us together in Heaven someday. Your love is still our guide, you’re always at our side an Angel from Heaven. Remembering the most beautiful soul, greatly loved and deeply missed!

1ST DEATH ANNIVERSARY Lt. Thejangulie Kapfo

our dearest father

Late Neingulie Metha

On his 25th Death Anniversary “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” Rev. 21:4

Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us everyday.... unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear. Forever in our hearts. From loving wife, children, in-laws and grandchildrenNeikehenuo, Sedevi, Thejasevor, Kelevi-ü, Thejasi. K-537

Died on 03.03.2017

I have fought the good ﬁght, I have ﬁnished the race, I have kept the faith.

time and effort into white and red-ball cricket over a long period of time to get into the teams and play for England. That’s what I want to do for a long time.” “I want to go on and play as many Tests as I can - because you get remembered for how many Tests you’ve played.”

OF OUR BELOVED LATE C ANGSHEM PHOM

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forward, scored 13 goals in 34 Championship games this season. “I’m honoured to receive this award. I’d like to say thank you to everyone, thank you to the team. This season we’ve played some really good football,” the 17year-old Sessegnon said. Other winners on the night include Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson for Manager of the Year, and Brentford’s Daniel Bentley was named Goalkeeper of the Year.

suit any time soon. “I won’t be going down that route just yet we can put that to bed for the next few years at least,” he said. “We need to back individuals’ decisions... you can’t force people into playing things. (But) I want to play all formats for England. I have put a lot of

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY

Kane named PL player of the year Fondly Remembering

Lo n d o n, M a r 2 (Agencies): Harry Kane was named Premier League Player of the Year, while teenager Ryan Sessegnon took home Young Player of the Year and EFL Player of the Year at the London Football Awards on Thursday. Kane beat Chelsea’s Cesar Azpilicueta, Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace and teammates Christian Eriksen and Son Heung-min to the prize. Sessegnon, a Fulham

Jonny Bairstow

From loving husband, children and family.

Died on 3rd March 2017

Died on 3rd March 1993

(2 Tim. 4:7)

1ST DEATH ANNIVERSARY

Word can’t express how grateful we are to you.

OF OUR BELOVED LT. TIARENLA PONGEN

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We miss you dearly.

(Chuchuyimlang)

Loving wife, children, grandchildren & relatives.

VIZOL

on his 10th Death Anniversary 03-03-2008

Born : 2/8/1982 – Died : 3/3/2017

“It is vital that you strive to be remembered not merely for what you have done but for who you are, for good character is the true measure of a well lived life”.

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It has been a year since you said goodbye, But not a day passes by without us thinking about you. The agony is impossible to describe and we miss you terribly, If only we could have you back for just a little while. Your death has left us bereft and this void can never be filled. But, we know you are in God's loving presence and watching over us. And as long as life and memories last, you are forever in our hearts. Until we meet again, We shall cherish those beautiful moments shared with you in celebration.

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K Y M C

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS. Loving parents, brothers, sister, friends and relatives

In man’s sight, 10 years seems too long It however feels like yesterday That you were here with us. Teaching love, wisdom, grace, kindness And living it as you did. You showed us what it meant to be Christ-like The test of time has not weakened, Nor has memory betrayed us of all that you were We miss you and remember you everyday -FamilyK-543

K Y M C

sports

Man City close in on EPL title

Sane celebrates with Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva after his goal gives Manchester City a three-goal lead in the first half.

LO N D O N, M a r 2 (Agencies): Manchester City tore Arsenal apart for the second time in five days on Thursday, beating them 3-0 on a freezing night at The Emirates to restore their 16-point lead as they close in on the Premier League title. Arsenal hoped for redemption after City thrashed them by the same scoreline in the League Cup final at Wembley on Sunday but first-half goals by Bernardo Silva, David Silva and Leroy Sane handed the Gunners their second home league loss this season. Arsenal’s club record signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang added to the home side’s woes when

his penalty was saved by Ederson early in the second half after fellow new arrival Henrikh Mkhitaryan was brought down just inside the area. The win leaves Pep Guardiola’s scintillating City side on 75 points from 28 games ahead of secondplaced Manchester United and they only have to win five of their last 10 matches to be crowned champions for the third time in seven seasons. “We are close. It’s in our hands, we can’t deny it,” Guardiola said, while stressing his team must focus on the next game at home to last season’s champions Chelsea on Sunday. He expressed some sympathy

for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who has faced renewed speculation over his future at the London club as the Gunners slide out of contention for Champions League football next season for the second year in a row. “He knows my admiration for him... I know all the managers can be in that situation. I’m sure he’s going to take the right decision for him and for the club,” Guardiola told a post-match news conference without elaborating. The result leaves Arsenal sixth, 10 points outside the top four places that guarantee Champions League football next term. They can still qualify for Europe’s elite club competition, but

Del Potro through to Acapulco semis

Juan Martin Del Potro raises his racket to salute fans after defeating Austria’s Dominic Thiem. (AP/PTI)

ACAPULCO, Mar 2 (Agencies): Argentine Juan Martin del Potro maintained his perfect career record against Dominic Thiem on Thursday with a popular 6-2 7-6(7) victory over the Austrian in their Acapulco Open quarterfinal in Mexico. The former U.S. Open champion raced through

the first set against the world number six but had to battle much harder to secure the win in a tight second stanza on the outdoor blue hard court. The victory came in the tiebreak on a Thiem double fault, which was confirmed after the third seed, with nothing to lose, challenged the call.

Hawkeye revealed the ball had been a few millimetres long, sending the enthusiastic pro-del Potro crowd into wild cheering and applause. Del Potro will have little time to savour his victory as he prepares for Friday’s semi-final against second seed Alexander Zverev. German Zverev, the highest seed still standing after the pre-tournament withdrawal of Rafa Nadal, earlier dusted American Ryan Harrison 6-4 6-1. Kevin Anderson also reached the last four after serving 18 aces and saving six break points to edge South Korean young gun Chung Hyeon 7-6(5) 6-4 in a quarter-final that stretched nearly two hours. Standing in the South African’s path to the final will be 21-year-old unseeded American Jared Donaldson, who won 100 percent of his first serve points in a 6-3 6-1 thrashing of Spaniard Feliciano Lopez.

to do so they will almost certainly have to win the Europa League in which they meet AC Milan in the last 16. On a snowy night at The Emirates, City’s Portuguese forward Bernardo Silva opened the scoring in the 14th minute, collecting a pass after a long weaving run from Leroy Sane and delightfully curling his shot into the far corner past goalkeeper Petr Cech. City sliced open Arsenal’s defence again just before the half-hour, moving the ball swiftly upfield to Aguero who laid it into the path of David Silva racing up on the left, and the Spaniard drove a low shot into the corner to double the lead. Sane made it 3-0 five minutes later, walking the ball into the goal after another quick-fire City move had bamboozled Arsenal’s ramshackle defence who were left chasing shadows. The young German’s goal drew the first of many boos from the home fans in the less than full stadium as their team headed for home and away defeats by City for the first time in 42 years. Arsenal had a chance to get back into the game when they won a penalty early in the second half but their Gabon striker Aubameyang saw his spot kick saved by Ederson to complete a miserable night that piles more pressure on Wenger’s team.

Zeliang wrestling tournament on March 6

Dimapur, Mar 2 (NPN): The 24th Zeliang wrestling tournament organised by Zeliang Wrestling Association (ZWA) will be held on March 6 at Ngwalwa village ground. Dr. Hiabe Zeliang, deputy director, veterinary & animal husbandry and Keyirangding Hegui, project director, DRDA Peren will grace the meet as the chief guest and guest of honour respectively. Altogether, 64 wrestlers from northern, southern, eastern and western Zeliang wrestling associations will compete for the champion title. Officials from Nagaland Wrestling Association, Angami Sports Association and Chakhesang Wrestling Association and various sports associations will also attend the meet. Therefore, ZWA has invited all village councils and well wishers to be a part of the grand event.

Navjot wins gold in Asian Wrestling C’ships Bishkek, Mar 2 (PTI): Navjot Kaur clinched India’s first gold medal of the Senior Asian Wrestling Championships as she outclassed Japan’s Miya Imai in the final bout of the women’s 65kg freestyle category here Friday. Navjot beat Imai 9-1 in a one-sided contest on a fruitful day for India. Rio Olympics bronze medallist Sakshi Malik won a bronze in the 62kg freestyle category after getting the better of Kazakhstan’s Ayaulym Kassymova 10-7 in a tough fight. The two medals took India’s medal tally to six -- a gold, a silver and four bronze medals. Navjot produced a thoroughly dominating performance. She was impressive throughout her final bout as she recorded a convincing win. The 28-year-old Navjot has been around the wrestling circuit for a while as she had previously won a silver at the Asian Championships in 2013 and a bronze in 2014 Commonwealth Games in 67kg. Sakshi, meanwhile, emerged from a hard-fought b r o n z e m e d a l p l ayo f f against Kazhakstan’s Ayaulym Kassymova with a 10-7 scoreline. Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat had to be contend with a silver medal as she lost 2-3 to China’s a Chun Lei in the summit clash of the women’s 50kg freestyle.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

Ibra hints at World Cup comeback STOCKHOLM, Mar 2 (Agencies): Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has opened the door for a return to the Swedish national team at this year’s World Cup in Russia if he can recover his fitness in time. “We’ll see, it’s a tough question. I want to feel that I can perform and give back. I don’t want to come just because I’m somebody. The door isn’t closed for anything,” he said. Speaking to reporters at the opening of his new paddle tennis centre in Stockholm, the 36-yearold added that it was hard to watch the Swedes play without him. “I miss the national team. When you’ve played in the national team for 20 years and then you’re not in it anymore, and you see the others playing in the national team, it’s tough,” he told reporters on Thursday. “It’s tough in general, when you think that I’m injured and not playing. I want to play, with the club team, with the national team, it’s the same thing. They (the Swedish national team) have done a good job,” he added. Without him, Sweden came second to France in World Cup qualifying Group A, edging the Netherlands on goal difference, and then beat Italy in a playoff to reach the finals. Ibrahimovic has struggled to recover from

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

a serious knee injury sustained in April 2017 and he missed United’s Europa League final victory over Ajax Amsterdam in Stockholm last May. Sweden’s record goalscorer with 62 goals in 116 games, Ibra quit after their exit at the Euro 2016 group

stage but said even a phone call may not be necessary for him to return. “I don’t think anyone needs to call. If I want to, I’m there, that’s how it is. But one thing at a time. When I can do what I want to, I’ll have other thoughts,” he said.

Sushil targets 2018 Asian Games, World C’ships NEW DELHI, Mar 2 (Agencies): In the corridors of wrestling, people have of late been talking in hushed voices about double Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar’s impending retirement after the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in Australia from April 4 to 15. Top officials of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) have been of the same view. And, anticipating Sushil’s departure from international arena, Sushil’s challengers in the 74kg category, Praveen Rana and Jitender, have even started preparing for this year’s Jakarta Asian Games to be held in August-September, hoping to make the cut. But for all those nursing the desire to dethrone Sushil and become his successor, the 2012 London Olympics silver medallist isn’t looking to hang his boots, at least not after Gold Coast as speculated. In fact, the 34-year-

Sushil Kumar

old from Baprola village in Najafgarh is looking to play the party-pooper. The celebrated wrestler said on Thursday that he is looking to compete at the Asian Games and the Senior World Championships to be held in Budapest, Hungary from October 22-28. “I am not going anywhere. All those who are talking about my impending retirement after the CWG, let me set the record straight. I will be appearing for the

trials for the Asian Games and will also compete for a place in the squad for the Worlds. This year I will play both the events and then take a call on my future. I am ready to face Rana, Jitender or whoever comes my way,” Sushil told TOI. “My body is holding up well. I am fitter than ever before. I am recovering well from my knee injury (which forced him to miss the PWL and Asian Championships in Kyrgyzstan). I didn’t want

to aggravate it keeping the CWG in mind. I will soon leave for a training stint in Georgia before flying straight to Gold Coast,” he added. With Sushil eager to prolong his career, all fans who want to see another mouth-watering duel between Sushil and his rival Rana, would get to see the two clash during the trials for the Asiad and Worlds. It may be recalled that their bout during the CWG trials led to a fracas between Sushil and Rana’s supporters. Sushil’s name hasn’t been recommended by the WFI for receiving funding under the Target Olympic Podium (TOP) scheme. He also isn’t entitled for Rs 50,000 monthly stipend offered by the sports ministry to elite athletes. But Sushil has no qualms. “I will continue to pay for my training from my own pocket. I will go to Georgia on my own,” he informed.

Barcelona held 1-1 by Las Palmas in La Liga Wawrinka to skip Indian Wells, Miami

Barcelona star Lionel Messi shapes to shoot as four Las Palmas players surround him as he gets set to strike the ball.

LAS PALMAS, Mar 2 (Agencies): Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said the controversial penalty which earned Las Palmas a 1-1 draw on Thursday and gave Atletico Madrid hope in La Liga’s title race had left “a bad taste”. Barca host Atletico on Sunday, in a clash of first against second with extra weight, now that the Catalans’ lead has been cut to just five points. Atletico thrashed Leganes 4-0 on

Wednesday night. Lionel Messi’s brilliant free-kick looked set to restore their advantage to seven points ahead of this weekend’s showdown at the Camp Nou but two decisions from referee Antonio Mateu helped lowly Las Palmas take a share of the spoils. First, Mateu overlooked a handball from goalkeeper Leandro Chichizola outside the box, which could have drawn a red card, and then he

awarded a penalty when the ball struck Lucas Digne on the arm. Former West Ham striker Jonathan Calleri made no mistake. Barcelona will feel hard done by given Digne’s handball looked entirely accidental, with Gerard Pique on the pitch after the final whistle venting his anger at the officials. “We do not know what happened in this play,” Valverde said afterwards. “From the field I found it

unspeakable, but these are things that happen.” Even after Calleri’s equaliser, however, the visitors had 42 minutes to find a winner and, in truth, they created little. The question now is whether three days is enough for Barcelona to recover, physically and mentally, before facing an Atletico team hunting their ninth win on the bounce. “The match comes fast,” Valverde said. “But that’s how it is. There remains a bad taste, after not winning here when we thought we could have done.” Valverde had already lamented the scheduling this week but Luis Suarez started, despite sitting one yellow card away from a suspension, which he successfully avoided. It is hard to think of two better players than Messi and Suarez in a two against one but the former’s final pass to the latter was underhit and the first big chance of the game was lost. Messi seemed deter-

mined to atone for his error and in the 21st minute he won a free-kick after another irrepressible run to the edge of the box. The Argentinian planted the ball left-footed into the top righthand corner. The first controversy came on the stroke of halftime as Chichizola came rushing out of his area but, after skewing his clearance, the keeper quickly stopped the ball with his hand. Mateu blew only for the interval. Any sense of injustice was then doubled three minutes after the break, when Mateu awarded Las Palmas their penalty. Barca failed to clear a cross into their box and as the ball cannoned off the back post, it struck the oblivious Digne on the arm. Calleri coolly dispatched the spot-kick. On came the extra firepower, as Philippe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele replaced Aleix Vidal and Andres Iniesta but Barca rarely troubled Las Palmas in the latter stages. They must improve on Sunday.

Stan Wawrinka

Los Angeles, Mar 2 (Agencies): Stan Wawrinka will play no part in this month’s ATP Masters series tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami as he continues his recovery from knee surgery. The 32-year-old was forced to miss the second half of last season after undergoing a knee operation following a first-round exit at Wimbledon in June. Wawrinka returned to the circuit at the Australian Open but has struggled for form and suffered an open-

ing-round exit to world No 259 Tallon Griekspoor in Rotterdam, before being forced to withdraw against world No 193 Ilya Ivashka in Marseille. The world No 12 had shown encouraging signs of a return to form with a run to the semi-finals in Sofia last month, but Wawrinka hopes a period of recuperation will aid his return to full fitness. “ U n f o r t u n a t e ly I need to announce that I won’t be able to play in Indian Wells and Miami,”

Wawrinka said. “They are both amazing events but coming back from a big surgery is complicated and after having played a few tournaments I have discussed with my team that it is best for me to build on the progress and go back to practice.” “I’ve enjoyed being back on tour playing matches and this gives me even more motivation to go back on the practice court. My goal is to find my highest level again and in order to do that I will keep working hard every single day.” Wawrinka, a threetime Grand Slam champion, has targeted a return in time for the clay court campaign, which - for the sport’s biggest players - begins with the Monte-Carlo Masters in April. “I need to be patient and give my body the time it needs, but as of now my goal is to come back on clay,” he said. “I love that part of the season and hope to be ready by then.”

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