May 13, 2020

Nagaland Post

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Vol XXX No. 156

DIMAPUR, WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020 Pages 8 ` 4.00

Vande Bharat: AI to operate 149 repatriation flights

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national, Page 5

nagalandpostofficial nagalandpostofficial

UK’s COVID-19 death toll tops 40,000; worst in Europe international, Page 6

urged to probe purchases PM announces `20L cr economic package Governor for COVID-19 under H&FW deptt Atmanirbhar Bharat

Lockdown 4.0 to have new rules

N E W D E L H I , M AY 12 (PTI): In a big push to revive the COVID-hit economy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced massive new financial incentives on top of the previously announced packages for a combined stimulus of Rs 20 lakh crore, saying the coronavirus crisis has provided India an opportunity to become self-reliant and emerge as the best in the world. Apart from the RBI assistance, the government had last month announced Rs 1.74 lakh crore to provide benefits to the poor, including cash transfers, Rs 50 lakh insurance cover and steps to ensure food security. In a televised address to the nation, the prime minister said the financial package will be around 10 percent of GDP and "will play an important role in the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan' (self-reliant India campaign), adding that the "announcements made by the government so far, the

Ao Senden tour 13 border villages

D I M A P U R , M AY 1 2 (NPN): Ao Senden volunteers undertook a tour of 13 villages in border areas on May 8 and 9 and donated money, besides distributing face masks. According to a release issued by the Senden president Chubawati Longchar and general secretary Imtipokyim, its leaders and villages resolved to completely seal the LongchemSaring road as per the government’s directive. Mentioning that all connecting roads, including footpaths, with Assam from Saring village and the four neighbouring villages would be closed, the release added that violators would be punished by four villagers along with Ao Senden. Further, it was decided that Senden would approach all departments concerned for making necessary arrangements with regard to the problems and requirements of border areas in Mokokchung district. And in order to attain self-sufficiency and stop dependence on others, the villagers also resolved to increase farming activities in their respective villages, the release added. Senden volunteers also visited the single-point entry check post for Mokokchung district on NH-2 under Longkhum village jurisdiction on May 12 and met the officials.

This is it!

"The virus has changed us. We'll have to maintain social distancing from now." K Y M C

The Road Ahead

Economy

5 Pillars of Self-Reliant India Infra- System Demography FullDemand utilisation

Quantum structure Vibrant One that Technology demography jumps, not driven of the largest incremental represents democracy a Indi ern mod ges chan

of power of demand and supply

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan

Package of `20 lakh crores (about 10% of GDP*)

Focus on Land, Labour, Liquidity and Laws

To cater to labourers, middle class, cottage industry, MSMEs and industries among others

*including recent economic measures and RBI announcements

Bold Reforms-Need of the Hour Supply Chain Reforms for Agriculture

Rational Tax System

Simple and Clear Laws

decisions of the RBI and today's package totals to Rs 20 lakh crores". Modi said the special economic package will have emphasis on land, labour, liquidity and laws, and will be for "our labourers, farmers, honest tax payers, MSMEs and cottage industry". India's self-reliance will be based on five pillars— economy, infrastructure, technology driven system, vibrant demography and

Capable Human Resource

Strong Financial System

demand, he said. Modi also hinted at big-ticket economic reforms in coming days, and said beginning Wednesday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will announce details of the special economic package. Modi said getting fatigued or exhausted was not an option in confronting the unprecedented challenge posed by the pandemic and India has to make sincere efforts to become a self-reliant

nation by transforming the crisis into an opportunity. Asserting that just one virus has destroyed the world, Modi said the pandemic has provided an opportunity to India to become self-reliant and emerge as a powerful country globally in the 21st century. The prime minister's address to the nation came a day after he held a marathon six-hour meeting with chief ministers on the road ahead after May 17 when the 54-day nationwide lockdown is due to end. There have been growing demands by industries, workers and several political leaders to withdraw the lockdown as it has been having a devastating effect on the economy and livelihoods of a large section of people. Lockdown 4.0 details to be announced before May 18: There were clear indications of extension of the COVID-19-induced lockdown with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday saying that "lockdown-4" will have completely different contours and rules. On the basis of recom-

mendations received from states, new rules will be framed, and information about it will be conveyed before May 18, Modi said. The prime minister said the fourth phase of the lockdown, which he described as "lockdown-4", will have completely different contours and will have a new set of rules. In a video conference with chief ministers on Monday, Modi had said he is of the "firm view that the measures needed in the first phase of lockdown were not needed during the second phase and similarly, measures needed in the third phase are not needed in the fourth." The country has been under lockdown since March 25 and the third phase ends on May 17. Modi during his address to the nation noted that several experts and scientists have said that the novel coronavirus is going to be part of our lives for a "long time". "But, it is also important to ensure that our life does not revolve only around it (novel coronavirus)," he said.

D imapur , M ay 1 2 (NPN): Taking up the issue of procurement of substandard medical equipment needed to fight COVID-19 pandemic and the highly irregular manner in which procedures were manipulated, four RTI applicants, not being satisfied with the reply by Department of Health and Family Welfare (DoHFW), are knocking for justice at the door of Nagaland Governor R.N. Ravi. The four RTI applicants— Niketu Iralu, Robert N. Solo, Kuolachalie Seyie and Visedel Kin—have urged upon the Governor to intervene in the matter by ordering a probe into the purchases of sub-standard medical equipment, manipulation of procedures and fixing responsibility on those responsible for misappropriation and putting lives of people and health care professionals at risk. The four in their representation highlighted the driving force behind these questionable procurements to a statement on April 21 in Kohima by the state health minister who said that these were done under “panic order and purchase”, as reported

in another newspaper. The four also cited earlier news reports by this newspaper on April 12 and April 13 revealing lack of preparedness by the government, which they said depicted “strong lack of seriousness of government in its response to the global pandemic.” The four pointed out that the DoHFW replied that it had received Rs.4143.88 lakhs as on April 25 of which the expenditure was Rs.12,27,24,000. They said DHFW replied that an amount of Rs.30,50,26,000 was due and therefore the shortage(deficit) was Rs.1,33,62,000. They also informed the Governor that the DHFW had claimed to have legally constituted its Purchase Committee (PC)on March 26, 2020 with the following as members—Director (Health) designated as chairman and the following as members: Addl. director Purchase; state programme officer NHM, jt. director Purchase, dy director Purchase, sr. accounts officer, expert(s) official(s) as coopted member. However, according to the four, the above PC was in

name only since the “actual Purchase Committee was also legally formed by the government in supersession of the above Purchase Committee with only four members- Dr. Neikhrielie Khimiao (Director DoHFW), Dr. Kevichüsa (director NHM), Dr. Longai Phom (dy. director) and Dr. K. Sorhie (jt. director). Again, they said the above four named members were “never informed and their appointment was kept in the dark till 04.04.2020.” Also the four said even after formation of the PC, the signatures of the members were missing from every document of purchase order and details. They said this clearly indicated that the PC was “regularly bypassed and trespassed” even after formation to serve vested interests. There was no record of any quotation being invited nor any open tender as mandatory, they pointed out. On various medical items procured through questionable procedures, the four claimed that only a very few of the items had Standard Packaging with (Cont’d on p-5)

Residents bear brunt of border sealing Govt to give `10k to people stranded outside state

Bridge that connects Bor-Lengri and Dimapur barricaded. (NP)

Staff Reporter

D I M A P U R , M AY 1 2 (NPN): Hundreds of people commuting daily between Bor-Lengri in Karbi Anglong, Assam and Dimapur district are facing huge problem following sealing of a bridge that connected the two sides by Dimapur district administration on Monday evening. The bridge was sealed following a directive by the Home ministry to seal all inter-State borders due to COVID-19 pandemic. Bor-Lengri Lotha GB Ren Jami told Nagaland Post

over telephone that residents near the border were ready to abide and follow the order of the district administration as they understood the gravity of the situation. But at the same time, he appealed to the Nagaland government to offer relaxations for medical emergencies. He claimed that there were 2,776 households in the area belonging to different Naga tribes. On the other hand, Balijan ‘C’ caretaker GB K Lichumo Lotha told this reporter that along with the Naga residents of BorLengri, villagers of Balijan

‘C’ too bought all their essential items from Dimapur. However, he regretted at the Dimapur district administration preventing them from entering Nagaland. He too demanded that exemption be made for medical emergencies and frontline workers residing in the vicinity. Bor-Lengri Block-I president Imli Walling said a meeting was held with the council, GBs and chairmen and Duncan Council and Lengrijan over the lifeline, which had been sealed. He said they called for giving exemptions during medical emergencies. Police manning the area said the bridge would remain closed till they received directives from higher-ups. When contacted, DC Dimapur Anoop Khinchi explained that the bridge was sealed in order to restrict free flow of people from both sides. He, however, assured that relaxation would be given on medical grounds.

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, MAY 12 (NPN): In what seems to be an attempt to discourage citizens from returning to the State, Nagaland government has announced a onetime financial relief of Rs 10,000 to stranded citizens choosing not to return. Speaking to Nagaland Post over telephone, chief secretary Temjen Toy confirmed that the State government would be providing Rs 10,000 only to those “genuine” stranded citizens of Nagaland who chose to stay back at the places they are currently located. He said the financial assistance would be given to those who had registered on the website (iamstranded.nagaland.gov.in.) and chose not to return. Toy mentioned that those who wished to stay back have to declare it on the website, adding the government would release

Special trains for those who wish to Registration on mobile must for returnees return, but quarantine to be mandatory App The State government

has made it mandatory for every stranded citizens of Nagaland, returning from different parts of the country, to register on nCOVID19 Nagaland-Visitors App available for android users. For iOS (Apple phone) users or any user having problems have been asked to contact the toll free helpline number 1800-345-0019 for technical support. Till date, the government has disbursed Rs 7.57 crore into bank accounts of 19,464 individuals – 14,357 working people, 4,933 students and 175 patients – stuck at various places of (Cont’d on p-5) India due to the lockdown as relief. This was stated by principal secretary (home) Abhijt Sinha. Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio has convened He said 6,532 persons a meeting with all civil society organisations at Dimapur were screened on Tuesday on Wednesday to seek opinions and discuss the return and 86 persons are under of stranded citizens. facility quarantine.

the money after screening. He claimed systems had been put in place to check fraudulent claims and punish “dishonest opportunists”. Appreciating and endorsing the appeals of several civil society organisations (CSOs) to citizens of Nagaland stranded outside the State not to return, unless unavoidable, the chief secretary cited examples of other States that witnessed an increase in COVID19 positive cases after allowing stranded people to enter. He maintained that the government was work-

ing on plans to bring in stranded citizens in a staggered manner, keeping in view the State’s limitations in infrastructure for quarantine and other resources. However, he regretted that the Centre’s announcement to allow special train services had “thrown these plans out of gear”, adding that the government had now started to work on a new standard operating procedure (SOP) so that required quarantine and other protocols were put in place before the arrival of the stranded and distressed citizens into the State.

To seek views, Rio to meet CSOs today

Stranded citizens urged to reconsider plans to return Nationwide COVID-19 tally crosses 74k D I M A P U R , M AY 1 2 (NPN): Naga tribal bodies including Angami public Organization (APO), Ao Senden and Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) have urged the citizens stranded in several parts of the country due to COVID-19 lockdown to reconsider their plans to return to the state. Meanwhile, as per the list prepared, around 2038 in various districts across the state-- Dimapur: 538 rooms, Kiphire: 89 rooms, Kohima: 240 rooms, Longleng: 47 rooms, Mokokchung: 236 rooms, Mon: 126 rooms, Peren: 173 rooms, Phek: 191 rooms, Zunheboto: 60 rooms, Tuensang: 194 rooms and Wokha: 189 rooms. APO: Taking note of the proposed return of thousands of stranded people particularly to Kohima and Dimapur, the Angami Public Organisation has appealed to all responsible to

Over 2000 rooms kept ready for returnees

Passengers aboard New Delhi-Dibrugarh special train, Tuesday. (PTI)

decide well before taking a decision to travel. Acknowledging that the stranded citizens could be facing various problems and difficulties, APO, however, expressed belief that staying wherever they were could be the safest thing at this juncture. APO stated that they could be free of virus at the moment, but there was a bigger risk of expos-

ing themselves to the virus during their travels. “We are here to facilitate your coming if you really need to return,” APO said, but urged them to think twice before taking decision to return. Unless it was very necessary to return, APO said it was best that the stranded citizens stayed where they were for the betterment of all. APO assured to extend

necessary help by requesting the government to initiate prompt and timely actions to help those in need. Ao Senden: Apex Ao tribal body, the Ao Senden through its president Chubawati Longchar and general secretary Imtipokyim has urged those stranded persons in various places across the country not to return home. Acknowledging the hardships being faced especially by those stranded outside the state, the Senden, however, added it was doing its best to ease the hardships by communicating with all the concerned. Also admitting that it would be very hard to be away from families at such a time, the It, however, maintained that it would be in the best interest of all for those stranded people to remain wherever they were until the pandemic sub(Cont’d on p-5) sided.

last 24 hours till Tuesday 8 a.m. However, a PTI tally announced by different states put the total number of confirmed cases much higher at 74,029 and the death toll at 2,338, as of 9 p.m. Global: Over 4.1 million cases of COVID-19 were recorded worldwide, including at least 285,000 deaths. United States reported at least 80,000 deaths.

Nagaland COVID-19: Results of 10 awaited

NEW DELHI, MAY 12 (PTI): Nationwide COVID19 tally crossed 74,000 and the death toll also crossed 2,300 Tuesday while nearly 24,000 people have recovered from the disease so far.

In its daily update, the Union Health Ministry said the COVID-19 death toll rose to 2,293 and the positive cases climbed to 70,756, registering an increase of 87 deaths and 3,604 cases in the

D I M A P U R , M AY 1 2 (NPN): State principal secretary Home, Abhijit Sinha Tuesday informed that out of 882 samples sent for testing from the State till date, results of 872 samples had tested negative, while results for the remaining 10 samples are awaited. Further, 11 samples were tested by TrueNat machines and all tested negative. K Y M C

state

TNAI Kohima celebrates ‘International Nurses Day’

Nurses singing hymns during the programme held at NHAK on May 12.

Donations toward needy people continue during lockdown

D I M A P U R : Va r i o u s organisation, banks and churches continue to donate towards needy people during the ongoing lockdown period due to COVID-19 pandemic. BoB extends essential goods to Zhadima villagers: Bank of Baroda (BoB) Kohima branch chief manager Suresh Kaushik together with high school branch, joint manager Seyie Vitsu and staff distributed essentials goods to the villagers of Zhadima on Tuesday. A brief programme was chaired by Zhadima village VDB secretary Roko Angami while invocation was pronounced by Rev Khriezolie. Vote of thanks was proposed by Head GB Kedilezo M Keditsu. Meanwhile, villagers thanked the bank officials for their help towards the needy villagers during the difficult situation. (Correspondent) STMS distribute food packs: St. Thomas Mission Society (STMS) members under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Dr. P. S. Varghese, Rev. Fr. Gemcy Eappen distributed food item packs at different locations in Dimapur on May 11. A press release from STMS

DIMAPUR: International nurses’ day under the theme “Nurses a voice to lead: Nursing the world to health” was organised by Trained Nurses' Association of India (TNAI), local branch Kohima at Naga Hospital Authority, Kohima (NHAK) on May 12. A press release from NHAK stated that, nurses of Naga Hospital held a short lamp lighting ceremony, wherein lamp was lit by Nothusanu, nursing superintendent, NHAK. President TNAI, local branch,

Kohima Rita Angami, said that this nurse’s day could not be celebrated in a grand manner like the other years, due to COVID-19 pandemic, but stressed that it was special because it was the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingal's birth. It must be noted that World Health Organization has designated 2020 as the year of nurses and midwife. Rita also urged all the nurses to unite even during such unfortunate situation and work with sincerity

Nagaland Taxes department informs

ASUD arrange buses for stranded citizens

School buses arranged by the ASUD

DIMAPUR, MAY 12 (NPN): With shortage of buses to transport stranded citizens from Dimapur to other districts, the Ao Students' Union Dimapur (ASUD) took the initiative to arrange more than 10 buses to ferry stranded citizens from various community to Mokokchung district. With thousands of stranded people wanting to go back to their respective

districts, the state government has not been able to cover all supposedly due to shortage of NST buses. ASUD with the help of institutions like Maple Tree School, Hope Academy and Saku Mission College were able to send at least 200 people on May 11 and May 12. According to reports, the district administration paid for the fuel cost and all other expenditures were

made by the students including refreshment. There are hundreds stranded and waiting to go back home, and more buses are needed, ASUD stated. The students' body also raised apprehension that if the authorities were unable to handle interdistrict stranded citizens, how would they cater to those returning from other states.

secretary stated that, teachers of MGM College & MGMHSS contributed one day salary towards the cause. Out of students from nursery to class 12 and undergraduates, teachers identified only 5 students in need of help due to COVID-19 lockdown. STMS has so far distributed 250 food kits to the needy people. PBC Zunheboto: Police Baptist Church (PBC) Zunheboto under the leadership of Rev Ahoshe Yeptho pastor and deacon board distributed food packages to all the Police personal on COVID-19 duty. Altogether around 500 food packs were distributed in and around Zunheboto town. Team also visited both the entry gates of the town, the Zunheboto Police station, SP office Zunheboto and the Indian Reserve Police camp. SBAK-Nito mount: Phisami Baptist Church (SBAK-Nito mount) under the leadership of Rev. Heito and deacon board distributed free vegetables to the village people who are currently settled and living in Zunheboto town. Altogether more 30 household were benefited.

K Y M C

NPAD informs on transfer of monthly pensions: Nagaland Pensioners Association Dimapur (NPAD) has informed all pensioners of Dimapur that as per the standing orders of the state government as well as directives from SBI that monthly pensions would be paid by transfer to respective pensioner’s bank accounts irrespective of pension amount. NPAD requested all the pensioners to create a bank account on or before September 30 and in the meantime those pensioners who presently do not have a bank account may contact district treasury office, Dimapur for necessary needful action to enable drawing of pensions during the lockdown. EE WED informs: Wokha electrical division (WED), EE Chonrothung Ezung has informed all the esteemed electricity con-

1 DEATH ANNIVERSARY LT. RÜSOKHRIE CHIESE 13th May 2019

We, the bereaved family of Late GANESH RAI would like to convey our profound and sincere gratitude to all individuals, communities, friends, relatives and well wishers who stood by us physically, spiritually, financially and materially at the sudden demise of our beloved father on 28th April 2020. We regret our inability to acknowledge everyone individually, but we thank you all for your gesture BORN : 01/03/1960 DIED : 28/04/2020 of kindness. We pray that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly. DP-2323

K-884

Loving wife, sons, daughter, grand-children & family members

There is no word to express the love we feel for you. The pain of losing you is immeasurable, All the moments we lived together were magical. Your guiding hand on our shoulder will remain with us forever. Loving wife & children

1st DEATH ANNIVERSARY

LT. KIYAPFEÜ CHADI

OF OUR BELOVED AZOU Today's the anniversary of the day that we lost you And for a time it felt as though our life had ended too What we shared will never die it lives within our hearts, Bringing strength and comfort while we are apart. Loving Husband, Children, Grandchildren & Relatives

25 May 1973 – 13 May 2019

1ST DEATH ANNIVERSARY

Assam Rifles apprehend NSCN (K-YA) cadre DIMAPUR: As part of relentless crack down by security forces, one active cadre of NSCN (K-YA) faction was apprehended in Zunheboto town on May 11 night. According to PRO HQ IGAR (N), Zunheboto Battalion of Assam Rifles apprehended self styled ‘sergeant major’ Bokaho Yeptho

sumers of Wokha town that the monthly electricity bill for the month of February 2020 has been released and uploaded in the department website. Due to COVID19 lockdown the hard copy of the bills will not be dispatched so all consumers are to view and pay the bills online www. dopn.gov.in or DoPN App from Playstore. WED requested consumers to bear with the inconvenience due to the breakdown of link distributor. KPO elects new officials: Khomi Public Organisation (KPO) has declared a new team of office bearers of KPO for the tenure 2020-2022. The new team is led by Huruda Rahuyi as president, Vezhosuh Lohe as vice-president and Zhoveto Lohe as general secretary along with seven others.

APC Nagaland Kikheto Sema (Right) who is also the overall incharge Dimapur district for COVID-19 along with DC and CP Dimapur and other officials inspecting the reception center at Agri Expo site, Dimapur ST on May 12. (DIPR)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

LT. KHRIEPHREZOLIE LIEZIETSU

of NSCN (K-YA) ‘ along with a 0.22mm US made pistol and non local identity cards of GPRN (9 numbers). The apprehended individual along with recoveries was handed over to Police Station, Zunheboto for further investigation on May 12.

FGN condoles demise of member

K-889

(13.05.2019) A year has passed by since you left us for your heavenly abode. Your life was a blessing and you remain alive in our hearts and memories. We deeply miss you. Loving wife, daughter, son & relatives

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

DP-2325

“Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven”. Luke 10:20

DP-2320(A)

D I M A P U R : Fe d e r a l government of Nagaland (FGN), western command (W/C), Naga army has expressed grief over the demise of late ‘captain’, Mapeng, army No. 1325l son of Kukeng of New Beisumpuikam village of 3rd Bn. 1st B’de, W/C Naga army, who passed away on May 11. A condolence note from ‘maj. gen.’ Pezangulie Khelietsu, GOC stated that late captain Mapeng joined national defence service on August 15, 1987 and was appointed as ‘adjutant’ of 3rd Bn. 1st B’de, W/C Naga army on August 18, 2018 and faithfully served the nation till his last. FGN stated that his untimely demise was “a great loss for the unit and for the 1st Brigade W/C, Naga Army of Zeliangrong region” and that his sacrifice for the nation will remain alive. Further, WC, Naga army, FGN prayed that the almighty grant solace and peace to the bereaved family members and relatives at this hour of grief.

news in Brief

DP-2320(B)

DIMAPUR: Commissioner of Taxes, Nagaland, Kesonyu Yhome in continuation to office order of March 23, and in order to facilitate issuance of tax clearance certificate to taxpayers has issued the following directives. Taxpayers have been informed that without physical interfaces, they can approach the department with scanned copies of filled applications in annexure ‘A’ along with invoice/invoices should be mailed to cotgon@rediffmail.com or whatsapp the images to 7005080401. On receipt of the application, the department will examine the application and the accuracy of the returns filing, issue the tax clearance certificate to the eligible applicants through email or whatsapp from which the application had initially received. Any queries pertaining to filing of returns may be contacted at help number 7005080401. The order shall be effective immediately till further order.

while dealing with people’s life. Being a nurse is a noble profession because it demanded tireless contribution, dedication and an extraordinary amount of compassion and selflessness, she added. Earlier, invocation was offered by NHAK chaplain Vikepu Tepa. TNAI, local branch Kohima also visited the Kohima Orphanage and Destitute Home and Cradle Ridge Hospice, Kohima. They distributed rice and other essential items to the home.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

DP-2302

2

Born: 01-04-1962 – Died: 12-04-2020 Through this column, we the bereaved family would like to express our profound gratitude to the staffs of Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA), relatives, friends, neighbours, churches and well wishers who stood by us through prayers and provided emotional and immense practical support through out the prolonged illness till the sad demise of our dearest father, Late Lokhro on 12th April, 2020. While we recount your kind gesture with gratitude, we also share our deep regret for our inability to reach you individually. Yet we pray that, “May the peace of God be with you, His love never ends”. Loving wife & daughters K-892 K Y M C

3

State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

Preparedness measures to combat COVID-19 pandemic continue

DIMAPUR: With the ongoing nationwide lockdown, the state government agencies continue to intensify preventive measures so the public do not become slack in following government guidelines. Trainings and meetings are being conducted for frontline workers in preparation for any eventuality of COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in the state. Farmers are being sensitised on growing local organic crops to sustain on a large scale. Sanitisation drives are also being conducted to ensure that public areas are kept scrupulously hygienic. Vehicle movement of odd and even numbers have been allowed on different days so there is no congestion during mobility. Public are however reminded to wear mask, use hand sanitiser and maintain social distancing even while shopping or in other public places.

Wokha DISTRICT

Dimapur DISTRICT

Commissioner & secretary, Anenla T Sato addressing the special drive at Wokha Sanitisation by spraying disinfectant carried out on May 12. (DIPR) in various places at Medziphema. (DIPR)

COVID-19 Horticulture special drive

Department of Horticulture, Nagaland, held a special horticultural drive and consultative meeting with department official at DC’s conference hall, Wokha on the theme “Grow more-produce more-earn more” on May 12. According to DIPR report, commissioner & secretary Horticulture & Women Resource Development, Anenla T. Sato, while speaking during the meeting, said in the wake of COVID-19 there were presently 135 million facing hunger globally due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. She added that it was likely to add 130 million people who were going to face hunger by the end of 2020, where she added that the state government is viewing seriously and came out with guidelines

to encourage farming community with a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). SOP is designed for farmers engaged in cultivation of vegetables, spices, fruits, flowers and plantation crops to reduce the risk of spreading the virus while protecting the farming operation in various horticultural fields. Sato further appealed to the department officials and other allied departments to help in collecting information and database of fruits, vegetables and spices growers so that department can come up with comprehensive strategy and marketing plans and activities so that farming community will be benefited. Director, Horticulture, Dr. R. Elithung Lotha who also spoke during the meeting said, everything has come to a standstill because

of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis and if this lockdown continues not only the farmers but the citizens would be adversely affected to a great extent. In this regard and with a view to reach out to the farming community, the department has come out with certain guidelines to encourage the farmers to carry on with their regular farming activities for selfsufficiency and economic development. He also added that Nagaland is blessed with natural resources and land and urged farming communities to make use of the resources to make the state sufficient and economically beneficial. Anenla was accompanied by jt. director Horti, N. Jerry Patton, dy. director Dr. Moa Walling, dy. director Mesetuo Pienyu and HEA Thungchobeni Kikon.

Sanitisation drive in Medziphema

In the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, ICAR Mithun Jarnapani in collaboration with Medziphema administration on Tuesday launched a sanitisation drive at Medziphema. According to DIPR report, the drive was initiated by Dr. Kobu Khati ICAR Mithun who personally monitored the sanitisation drive and provided all disinfectants. ADC Medziphema and ICAR Mithun Jarnapani made significant efforts by sanitising the subdivision, especially areas including Community Health Centre, MTC, ICAR Mithun Jarnapani and areas which are risk prone for local spread of Coronavirus. ICAR collaborated with Nagaland Fire and Emergency Service Chumukedima which used water wash pumps to sanitise all the areas in Medziphema town by spraying disinfectants.

APC Nagaland, overall in-charge of Dimapur district for COVID-19, Kikheto Sema convened a meeting for the empowered committee, DC Dimapur, CP Dimapur, medical department and discussed pertinent issues on the logistic arrangements for the returnees from other states at conference hall, DC Dimapur on May 11. (DIPR)

Kuda Village Council advisory

Kuda Village Council (KVC) held a special meeting on COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on May 9. A press release from KVC chairman, Achübu Meruno stated that during the meeting, the following resolutions were passed for safety and welfare of the citizens: Due to COVID-19 lockdown, many residents from Kuda village working outside Nagaland, students and patients under medical treatments, etc are stranded outside, unable to return. In view of govt plan to bring them home, any such

person/s returning home shall be liable to undergo quarantine protocol as per government norms, failing which no one will be permitted to enter village jurisdiction; In the event of any death due to COVID19 within village jurisdiction, the dead body shall only be permitted in the village jurisdiction after govt protocols are completed and certified by government COVID Hospital authorities. Thereafter, burial in the village will be allowed as per govt advisory; The dead body once sealed in the coffin

by govt authorities, shall not be re-opened under the village jurisdiction; The dead body of COVID-19 victim must be disposed/buried at the shortest span of time; In case of any dead body of COVID-19 victim released with full govt protocol and necessitated to transit in the village on a forward journey, such transit must be completed at the shortest possible time; KVC will adhere to all guidelines/advisory specified by the government in regard to disposal of COVID19 dead body.

Tuensang DISTRICT

Wokha DTF holds emergency meeting Wokha District Task Force (DTF) held an emergency meeting to discuss the matter regarding the arrival of the stranded students and persons from outside the state and other important issues on COVID-19 at the DC’s conference hall, Wokha on May 12, chaired by DC Wokha Orenthung Lotha. According to DIPR report, during the meeting a local committee was constituted in order to ensure smooth functioning while receiving the stranded students and persons from outside the state. Committee was constituted with the following members, transportation committee Echungbemo Erui, EAC convener 8132863735, Chophathung N. Tsopoe, DB, Shipemo Ezung, DB and Augustine, LDA as

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: If agricultural production affected will it ultimately cause food grain shortage? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

A B C

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A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

C

80% 0% 20%

Next poll

Q: Is India winning the war

members. Mess committee EAC Imtinungla as convener 9089386346, Renbeni, sr. supervisor CDPO office, all members of Nehru Yuva Kendra & IRCS volunteers and all executive members of Lotha Eloe Hoho. Electrification committee, Thanyalo Kath, SDO Power, Wokha as convener 7005603152, water & sanitation committee Beto Zhimomi, SDO PHED, Wokha as convener 7005072275. Sanitization committee I. Yentinoungbou EAC, Wokha as the convener 7005528270 and Orenthung Odyuo, sanitation inspector, Wokha Town Council as member. Quarantine center management committee at institutional quarantine center (men) GHSS all private hotels 9862918445 Chonpenthung Ezung,

SDO (C) Sadar as convener, Wokha, Sashi, UDA, A b e m o E z u n g, L DA , Khyochamo DB. Mt. Tiyi College institutional quarantine center, GA Rest House institutional quarantine center Tourist Resort institutional quarantine center (ladies) 8416096576 Arhomo Yanthan EAC Sadar, Wokha, Tsanthungo, LDA, Km Wonchibeni, LDA, Thungreni, LDA, Thechamo DB. On health care system, CMO was instructed to come up with local standard operation procedure and to constitute sub-committee for health workers and formation of receiving party. Later in the day the committee also visited the quarantine centres at GHSS for men and Mt. Tiyi College for ladies to oversee the preparedness for the returnee.

DC Tuensang Kumar Ramnikant speaking at the review meeting held on May 12. (DIPR)

Tuensang DTF COVID-19 review meeting Tuensang District Task Force (DTF) for COVID-19 held a review meeting with all the tribal leaders at DC’s conference hall on May 12, chaired by deputy commissioner Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant. According to DIPR report, the meeting deliberated on management of the people coming from outside the state, and also reviewed the preparedness of the quarantine centres across

Kohima DISTRICT

Essential goods available in the state

Joint secretary, Hiazu Meru issued the report on law & order and facilitation of essential goods and services regarding COVID-19 lockdown across the state as on May 11. According to DIPR, the report stated that 1(one) person violated the lockdown and 2 (two) persons were bound down. 746 (seven hundred and forty six) vehicles were imposed with fine that were challaned amounting to Rs. 1,41,050/-.

Regarding essential goods, shops for food grains and groceries, milk and also medicine were opened in all the districts. It also informed that there was no shortage in the supply of essential goods in the State. The report also stated that the movements of essential service providers like electricity, telecom facilities, medical facilities etc and personnel/workers in manufacturing units and commercial vehicles

for distribution of essential commodities and e-commerce were not restricted in the State. Suitable arrangements for providing food and shelter to affected migrant workers continue. As per the report, there are 4 (four) active relief camps where 64 (sixty four) migrant labourers are housed and in 4 (four) active food camps, more than 350 (three hundred and fifty) daily wagers and needy persons were provided with food and dry rations.

Peren DISTRICT

May 13

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala An afternoon thunderstorm

37 24

Partly sunny, a stray t-storm

30 18

Guwahati A heavy t-storm in the a.m.

31 21

A t-storm around in the p.m.

29 16

Itanagar Not as warm, a p.m. t-storm

26 19

Shillong

A thunderstorm in spots

21 16

Kohima

A thunderstorm in spots

23 15

Dimapur A strong afternoon t-storm Mkg

30 21

A stray morning thunderstorm 25 16

Tuensang A thunderstorm in spots Wokha

A stray afternoon t-storm

Zunheboto Mostly cloudy

Mon DISTRICT DC Mon notifies on video conference

been amended to open from 7 a.m. in the morning till 2 p.m. in order to avoid rushing in the market places and to maintain the social distancing in proper manner. House also decided to come up with an official appeal to the rent owners of the district to slash the monthly rent of the tenants on humanitarian ground due to the ongoing emergencies.

Yimchungrü Tribal Council (YTC) led by Throngso, president and Lankonsen Tsanglao ADC and chairman TFfC-19 Shamator along with TFfC-19 Shamator members and officer held a sub-divisional coordination at ADC conference hall. According to Task Force for COVID19 (TFfC-19) media cell, preparedness of tackling the tasks ahead was discussed. Col. Amit Thakur commandant 45 Assam Rifles and his MO also attended the meeting.

Kiphire DISTRICT

Deputy commissioner Mon, Thavaseelan K notified that a video conference (zoom) under the topic “experience with COVID-19 positive patients on ground” was held on May 6 in the office of the DC between Dr. Gunjan and Dr. Bharat from Mumbai as well as medical officers and doctors of district hospital, Mon. According to DIPR report, the video conference was initiated by district administration wherein, doctors interacted with doctors from Mumbai on various issues related to COVID-19 positive patient management. District administration, Mon conveyed gratitude to Dr. Gunjan and Dr. Bharat.

DC Longleng bans sale/ import of animals

WEATHER FORECAST

Imphal

the district and also on how the volunteers would be assist the district administration, police and medical personnel. House also decided to contact through phone, every individual staying out of state and planning to come back to Tuensang and review their opinions on coming and staying in the quarantine centres. Meanwhile, timing for shopping in the district has also

TFfC-19 coordination meeting

Longleng DISTRICT

against COVID-19?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

Aizawl

ADC Shamator Lankonsen Tsanglao along with YTC president and commandant 45 Assam Rifles at the meeting.

18 12 24 19 22 14

COVID-19 contact tracing training for volunteers of 9 wards under Peren town was held at All Saints Higher Secondary School auditorium hall on May 12, with MO Asappe Kauring and Dr. Kekhrie Sophie as resource persons. Training programme was organised by Medical department Peren in collaboration with district administration of Peren. (DIPR)

In connection with report of the death of animals such as mithun, cattles, goats in some parts of the district and suspected to be an outbreak of some unknown disease which is zoonotic and possess public health hazard, the deputy commissioner Longleng M. Shayung Phom has informed that selling/ slaughter of mithun, cattles, goat and import of the aforementioned animals is banned in the district with immediate effect until further order. According to DIPR report, necessary action against defaulters shall be initiated as per the prevention and control of infectious and contagious diseases in Animal Act 2009 and other relevant sections of law.

Stranded passengers after arrival at Kiphire helipad ground on May 12. (DIPR)

332 stranded persons reach Kiphire Altogether 332 stranded people reached Kiphire on May 12, mostly stranded at Kohima and Dimapur. According to DIPR report, a total of 11 buses, 4 from Kohima with 118 passengers and 7 buses from Dimapur with 214 passengers reached Kiphire on May 12. They were received at helipad ground by the district administra-

tion and Police. Refreshment was also provided by the USBLA staff and Kiphire Town Ao Baptist Arogo (KTABA). Meanwhile, one bus service was arranged by the district administration Kiphire for transporting 13 stranded Pungro passengers who arrived from Dimapur to Kiphire in the morning.

4

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 156 Dimapur, WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

Raptors’ last flight

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onservation efforts in Nagaland has been a mixed experience with mixed results and if it is to make headway, then the state government has to steer the action plans in the right direction so as to achieve the desired objective. Conservation of flora and fauna will remain as crucial as the existence of nature itself. Conservation can only be achieved through a path of sustainable biodiversity. This is to ensure the variety of plants and animals are maintained in the environment such that no species are lost. It also means maintaining ecological balance.Ecological balance is very important because life is supported by this balance. This newspaper has been highlighting environment and conservation issues since 1990. Though the state government(mainly the Forest department) has been pursuing the objective by attempting to get the landowners- tribes- on board, it has not been a success story. In many cases, the government has failed to deliver while on few instances, the landowners/village have chosen to follow their own path.This newspaper had recently published a story on the Amur Falcons in Pangti village Wokha district. In their annual migratory flight to South Africa from northern China and Siberia, Amur falcons pass through northeast India, particularly Manipur and Nagaland. In Nagaland, Pangti village attracted worldwide attention for the wrong reasons as villagers reportedly killed thousands each year when they went to roost at the area in and around Doyang hydro project.It may be mentioned that earlier, the raptors used to roost at Chuchuyimlang village under Mokokchung district. Quite clearly, poor sustainable management needed for the required environment had driven the raptors away. Pangti village found mention internationally as the “killing field” of thousands of Amur Falcons. Then by 2013-14 the villagers were transformed from predators to protectors and so Pangti village became the focus of international acclaim and also putting Nagaland on the map as the Falcon capital of the world. In November 2013, three birds, ‘Naga,’ ‘Wokha,’ and ‘Pangti’ were tagged with satellite transmissions. This brought thousands of bird watchers from both India and abroad. Normally, a raptor’s arduous migratory flight of over 22,000 kms and during which it sends signals. Sometimes, signals may stop for whatever reasons. The three birds stopped sending signals by 2015. By 2018 developments of another kind overwhelmed Pangti when the village council resolved to not allow visitors to the roosting site. The village was angry because projects meant for the roosting area were “hijacked” to another place.No programme could be held in 2019 and it is likely that it might continue unless the state government intervenes to resolve the issue. In November 2016, five Amur Falcons were tagged in Nagaland- Hakhizhe, Intanki, Longleng, Eninum, and Phom. While four stopped sending signals or died, only ‘Longleng’ continues to transmit signals. The bird had recently sent signals from somewhere in China on May 7,2020. ‘Longleng’ was tagged from Yaongyimchen Community Bio-Diversity Conservation in Longleng district. If Longleng either dies or stops sending signals, it would also signal the end of the Amur Falcon chapter for Nagaland. No new tagging has been done since 2016. On the other hand, Manipur is on the to open its Amur Falcon chapter. In Manipur, two birds were tagged in 2018 but both were killed. Then in 2019 five raptors were tagged of which three continue to send signals. The raptor approach in the two states explain the community approach towards conservation.

DailyDevotion The Habit of Having No Habits

If these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful… —2 Peter 1:8 When we first begin to form a habit, we are fully aware of it. There are times when we are aware of becoming virtuous and godly, but this awareness should only be a stage we quickly pass through as we grow spiritually. If we stop at this stage, we will develop a sense of spiritual pride. The right thing to do with godly habits is to immerse them in the life of the Lord until they become such a spontaneous expression of our lives that we are no longer aware of them. Our spiritual life continually causes us to focus our attention inwardly for the determined purpose of self-examination, because each of us has some qualities we have not yet added to our lives. Your god may be your little Christian habit— the habit of prayer or Bible reading at certain times of your day. Watch how your Father will upset your schedule if you begin to worship your habit instead of what the habit symbolizes. We say, “I can’t do that right now; this is my time alone with God.” No, this is your time alone with your habit. There is a quality that is still lacking in you. Identify your shortcoming and then look for opportunities to work into your life that missing quality. Love means that there are no visible habits— that your habits are so immersed in the Lord that you practice them without realizing it. If you are consciously aware of your own holiness, you place limitations on yourself from doing certain things— things God is not restricting you from at all. This means there is a missing quality that needs to be added to your life. The only supernatural life is the life the Lord Jesus lived, and He was at home with God anywhere. Is there someplace where you are not at home with God? Then allow God to work through whatever that particular circumstance may be until you increase in Him, adding His qualities. Your life will then become the simple life of a child.

Quotes

He who angers you conquers you. ~ Elizabeth Kenny

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

Post-mortem

Apprehensions on state govt’s plan to bring in stranded citizens

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am forced to issue this statement at my own personal level against the irresponsible and immature decision of the Nagaland State Government in facilitating and encouraging the return of stranded citizens from outside Nagaland. My statement is bereft of any personal benefit or political misgivings and as such I call upon every right thinking citizen to go through it and voice out their concerns for the utmost well-being of every single citizen of our State. At this crucial juncture when ever yone is taking every precautionary measure to avert a chaotic situation arising out of mismanagement of the COVID-19 situation, the State Government’s myopic decision to bring in the stranded citizens of Nagaland in such a hurried manner is highly ludicrous. It is beyond any iota of doubt that there has been no proper planning and handling of the situation. In other words, the State Government has yet again fallen short of reaching the people’s expectations and has sidelined the health and well-being of a majority of its citizens. Through this particular step, the government is putting the lives

of thousands of people in jeopardy. While there is no second opinion to the fact that we all have wefeeling for our brothers and sisters stranded outside and thus we sympathize with them. However, these are extraordinary times and sometimes during such situations, we have to use both our head and heart and not get carried away by whims and emotions. In the above context, I would like to cite the example of Assam where thousands of its stranded people were brought in from across the country in hordes and the resultant effect of it is that now Assam has become a hotbed of COVID-19 and there is no respite from it. There are several other such examples including Bihar and Tripura where COVID-19 cases have increased manifold only after the stranded citizens were brought back to their home states. These examples should make our State Government think twice on whether it is taking a right decision or not. We are not against any policies or decisions that the government takes for the general welfare of its citizens provided we had a state-of-the-art medical facilities. However, such decisions should not be

for cheap political mileage or for ulterior motives. At present, as we all know, Nagaland does not have enough medical infrastructures to contain such a deadly contagion and God forbid, if there is a sudden fall out of the pandemic after the stranded citizens are brought back, we can very well imagine the proportion of risk that we would be exposed to. Dimapur, the commercial capital of Nagaland has more reasons to worry because, as per the government’s plans, almost all of the returnees, mostly students, would be kept in quarantine facilities in Dimapur itself before they are allowed to proceed to their respective districts. Has the government pondered deeply on what unwarranted situation its unmindful decision would create for the Dimapurians who are already tensed due to the fears of not only the virus but also the constant rise of prices of commodities? Ju s t i m a g i n e t h e propensity of the risks that we are all involved in. The corona virus has not yet been fully isolated and there are no concrete evidences about its varied manifestations in the human body apart from some of the symptoms which

WHO has identified to be the accurate symptoms of COVID-19. There are certain cases where even asymptomatic people were found positive of the virus. This is in itself alarming! Here, I am not being pessimistic but these, as I said earlier, are not ordinary times and one is forced to be skeptic in such a situation. In a worst case scenario, if even one person is detected positive without manifesting any symptoms of the disease, as it has already happened in the case of asymptomatic people, the place where they will be quarantined will become a mass containment area and the people who are residing in and around the quarantine facilities will have to bear the brunt of the gross negligence of the State Government. Also since they will be travelling thousands of kilometers on their journey back home, they will also be putting many other co-passengers and other people to undue risks. This attempt on the part of the government to appease a few citizens will be a gross suicidal attempt. Instead the State Government should have been farsighted and calculative and should not have undertaken such a risky affair. Rather, it should have taken into

consideration the health and lives of thousands of people who are already living amidst fear and uncertainties. It should have made enough funds available for the stranded citizens to sustain themselves for another month or two. Moreover, there is no doubt that health care facilities in other states of India are much more superior and sophisticated than ours. Thus, the stranded people outside will stand a much better chance of recovery even if they are diagnosed positive of COVID-19. As for those citizens of Nagaland who are stranded outside, I would like to take the example of the brave girl from Sikkim who is also stranded in one of the mainland cities. She has, on her own, taken to the social media to educate the stranded people like her to practice restraint and not put the people back home at risk. The girl in the video very categorically says that “the decision to come back home is a matter of choice and not necessity to maintain a COVID-19 free status and that our plans to make a return journey not only puts our health at risk but also risks the health of our loved ones back at home. Let us make choices that can aid and secure the

public welfare of Sikkim all together. With the rise of asymptomatic cases, we need to be more aware and more careful of the choices that we make. Let us stay put wherever we are and let us do our bit to contribute in keeping Sikkim COVID free!” Though the girl was speaking in the context of Sikkim but is it not apt in the context of Nagaland too? Even our State, till date, has been COVIDfree, thanks to the efforts of our frontline workers. Why then should we take this undue risk and undo all the efforts of our frontline workers who have been spending sleepless nights till now, without much facilities, to maintain the COVID-free status? Why can’t we all make a humanitarian and unselfish choice? Finally, as a word of caution for our State Government, I would like to cite these strong and meaningful lines by Wanda Elizabeth “Beth” Moore, an American evangelist, author, and Bible teacher, “Let us all wise up. Some of us aren’t fighting the fire; we’re playing with fire. We’re flirting with the Devil. Stop it! Stop it now before all hell literally breaks loose!” Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema

Re-thinking higher education post Tragedy that could be averted COVID-19 lockdown: some perspectives

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(From previous issue) he kind of politics that had taken place in US in January this year did nothing good for them, and had only proved to the world that American politics is dirty like any politics in any working democracy of the world. A major political party in a world oldest democracy stooping so low to engaged in a petty politics at time of national and humanitarian crisis just because they refuses to come to terms with the upset victory of their political opponents against all odds four year earlier. This is a perfect reminder to all how dirty politics, driven by hatred of political opponents and greed for power, could spoil any nation and bring utter destruction for the lives of many. The congressional stalemate in January, caused by democrats’ impeachment pursuit, had bitterly torn the nation apart, diverts the whole attention from the looming crisis and tragically derailed any scope of preparation for effective handling and preventing the very crisis. This pre Covid-19 dirty politics should not happen in a country like US, and it’s just a reflection of bad leaderships who consciously chooses to ignore the interest of the country for the sake of pursuing their political convenience. For the sake of fairness and propriety, the US Congress should charge Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer for “obstruction of congress” causing the stalemate and preventing the working of the congress, if that don’t happen the country today would not have been the most affected country by the Covid19 pandemic and “abuse of power” in seeking the removal of an elected president without taking full authorization from the house and creating bipartisan consensus. For the world, there cannot be more tragic that it takes more than 200,000 lives to come to the realization point that the best way to secure the

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nation is the Donald Trump’s doctrine of “building wall” and “securing the country’s border”. Only with the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, nations of the world began to felt the need of closing their respective borders with the hope to prevent the spread of the virus. Ironically, these are the nations that are calling Trump as racist, xenophobic and an enemy of immigrants while decrying his plan of constructing a historic wall for the security of his country. There was never a time when the nations of the world are in desperate need to close their country’s border than this time around as the raging Covid-19 pandemic virtually affected the whole world with no sign of abatement. And there was never a time like the present one where nations never felt closing their borders as an indication of their unwillingness to welcome or entertain others. Unless they are still willing to continue to do politics with the president, by now critics of Donald Trump must accept that he is right on building wall and on imposing travel restriction on China, and that the country will be better off today because of his administration’s early regulations on handling the Covid-19 crisis until the obstructionist democrats becomes a hurdles in implementing those regulations. The pre-Covid-19 politics in US run too deep for the nation and the leaders to submerged completely into it, and in the process they fails to acknowledged the severity of the impending humanitarian crisis. By the time the impeachment dust got finally settled, the tragedy had taken root in the country. And this dirty politics spoiling the chances of timely and effective handling of the crisis, which is now costing several thousand of lives, should be a hard lesson to learn for the world. (Concluded) Dr. Nsungbemo Ezung, Wokha Town

ntroduction: As a rea- so total, swift and without ucation helped prepare sonably high-literacy any warning! One major people to face challenges rate society, it was ex- aspect was the closure of and threatening situations pected that we, as a people, educational institutions in life? In all of this, should would respond in a more where the pre-primary and our system of education efficient and organised primary, secondary to high- take some blame? For one, manner to the viral crisis. er education came all too has the system of educaBut the inverse happened. suddenly and forcefully tion failed to equip the As reported in newspapers on the 17th March 2020; people to face such an evenand social media in the before anyone could fully tuality? The main purpose country, there were many figure out the scale and of education is to prepare incidents where the public seriousness of the pan- citizens to face the future did not cooperate well with demic caused by the Novel with courage and dignity, the call of a lockdown; Coronavirus. All activities outside of facilitating them use of excessive force and in educational institutions to obtain careers/jobs. In abuse towards civilians and came to a grinding halt, this context, a relook into especially volunteers, doc- like many other institu- the system of higher educators, and health workers tions. All stakeholders in- tion is warranted. Serious who were sincerely work- cluding teachers, adminis- introspection/evaluation ing to get the situation un- trative staff, and students of our education in its der control – risking their along with their parents entirety: structure, conlives in the process; attacks were caught unawares, tent, method, evaluation on ambulances carrying and sadly, were grossly etc. - may be carried out, the dead; not sparing even unprepared for such a situ- the earlier this is done the doctors who died treating ation never faced before better. Some perspective COVID-19 patients. at this scale. But as the on higher education in the Sadly, this state of news and information of backdrop of COVID-19 emergency showed a reac- the threat of the virulent pandemic: It must be reittion where the innocent disease spread thick and erated and underlined with and driven were treated fast, especially on social a sense of urgency that all with contempt, and even media, the initial feeling faculty members need to denied dignified burials. of this ‘strange’ situation update themselves on the The downside in human turned to fear which gave use of information commubehaviour did not, how- way to gloom and doom. nication technology (ICT), ever, end there. It has been And soon the panic in the particularly in the use of a horrifying forty + days society was clearly visible. mass and social media so for some people at home What was in pretty much that it can open the possi– a spike in the rate of everyone’s mind was, “how bility of conducting online domestic violence caused might things pan out from classes, prepare study and by alcohol and substance here on out?” reference materials, etc. abuse, women and children Everyone had to re-so- The need to upgrade skills being the main victims as cialize so to speak - parents in this field has been vividly usual. These victims of had to become teachers, magnified in this lockdown abuse will have their ter- children had to do domes- situation. So, refresher rible experiences etched in tic chores, teachers had to courses and orientation their psyche forever. We provide study materials programs must compulsoall would have desired a online and /or conduct rily include hand-on sesbetter outcome, but in what online classes and step into sions in the use of such ways could the society the shoes of counsellors. technological devices and have behaved in a more Frontline workers like doc- software. In addition, eduresponsible and humane tors, nurses, and healthcare cational institutions must way? We ask this question workers had to re-orient urgently invest in setting in spite of the existence their skill set and knowl- up recording rooms and of many heart-warming edge, as well as rework installing video equipment stories that also presented their schedules to confront so as to enable the faculty themselves in the narrative, this unseen enemy they had to access aforementioned as we could all have been never encountered before; facilities. Institutions can better and done better for administrators, bureaucrats, also prepare to offer some ourselves and others all the and politicians alike were classes online should the same. And one question all at the point of befuddle- need arise again. However, arises in the mind- could ment on how to tackle the such an option will depend we have avoided and less- problem of smoothening on several factors such Sir, In all fairness and during such a critical situation which is so new to every ened the rise of the darker a new social order; reli- as electricity/power supside of human nature if gious leaders like pastors, ply, internet connectivity, nation in the world, our Nagaland government is also trying its best to help and we were better educated? deacons, and evangelists students’ access to laptops protect the citizens from COVID-19 pandemic. While it may be true that government should have invested more on health, There are definitely huge searched for the most ap- and smartphones. Hence, education and agriculture sectors in the past, this is not the time to keep blaming possibilities in it. propriate stories and verses the conducting of online In Nagaland espe- in the Bible to boost the classes and examinations the government especially when we are faced with such a new challenge. Henceforth, let this experience also be a lesson for future governments to put cially, most certainly, it morale of their flock so that will take some time for the the investments where required and not siphon it off to individual caches. would never have crossed they might hold on to their State to arrange. It must also be a lesson to the people that each one of us is responsible for anyone’s mind or imagina- faith and respond to the (To be concluded) the state of affairs that has engulfed us. Let us change our ways and become more tions that such a scenario turmoil with courage. Prof Buno Liegise responsible and honest in the future. of a ‘lockdown’ would have But a pertinent quesDept. of Education: occurred in the way it did - tion still stood – has EdNagaland University H Anito Yeptho, Dimapur 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.

Reader’s Post

Stop blaming and change for the better

national/state

Vande Bharat: AI to operate 149 repatriation flights

An Air India flight carrying 334 passengers leaves Chicago for India. Indian nationals, stranded in various countries amid COVID-19 pandemic, are being repatriated under Vande Bharat Mission. (PTI)

New Delhi, May 12 (PTI): Air India is planning to operate 149 repatriation flights to 31 countries between May 16 and May 22 during the second phase of the Vande Bharat mission to bring back home Indians stranded abroad amid the coronavirus-triggered lockdown, officials said. During the first phase of the Vande Bharat mission, Air India and its subsidiary Air India Express are scheduled to operate total 64 flights between May 7 and May 14 to bring approximately 15,000 Indians from

12 countries on a payment basis. “In the second phase, Air India and Air India Express will operate 149 flights to countries such as the USA, the UAE, Canada, Saudi Arabia, the UK, Malaysia, Oman, Kazakhstan, Australia, Ukraine, Qatar and Indonesia,” the airline officials stated. Other countries to where the national carrier would operate flights between May 16 and May 22 are Russia, Philippines, France, Singapore, Ireland, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Japan,

Georgia, Germany and Tajikistan, officials noted. The flights during the second phase will also be operated to Bahrain, Armenia, Thailand, Italy, Nepal, Belarus, Nigeria and Bangladesh, they mentioned. India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 70,000 people and killed around 2,290 people in the country till now. All scheduled commercial passenger flights have been suspended for the lockdown period.

Thackeray, 8 others set to enter MLC unopposed

Mumbai, May 12 (PTI): Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and eight other candidates in the fray for the May 21 polls to the legislative council are set to get elected to the Upper House unopposed. Five out of the 14 nominations were either withdrawn or rejected over technical ground, leaving only nine candidates in the fray for the same number of seats, said an official from Chief Electoral Office of Maharashtra. The Maharashtra Legislative Council election is scheduled for nine seats for which 14 nominations were received. Out of these, Dr Ajit Gopchade and Sandeep Lele of the BJP withdrew their nominations. “Two dummy forms submitted by Kiran Pawaskar and Shivajirao Garje from the NCP were also withdrawn today, said the official. He said the fifth nomination form was submitted by one Shehbaj Rathod, which was rejected on technical ground, leading nine candidates in the fray for as many seats. It means, including chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, all the nine candidates will get elected to the Upper House of the state legislature unopposed, the official said.

Post lockdown flights: Govt suggests no cabin baggage, detailed questionnaire for passengers MUMBAI, MAY 12 (AGENCIES): Filling up of a detailed questionnaire related to COVID-19, carrying no cabin baggage, using Aarogya Setu app and reaching airport at least two hours before a flight departure might well be among the requirements for air passengers during the initial phase after resumption of commercial flights. The civil aviation ministry has come out with a draft standard operating procedure (SOP) for restarting commercial air passenger services in the country, which remain suspended since March 25 in the wake of the lockdown to curb spreading of coronavirus infections. Green status on Aarogya Setu app, web check-in, and temperature checks for all domestic departing and arriving passengers have also been proposed. The draft SOP, accessed by PTI, has also mooted rostering the same set of cabin and cockpit crew as long as possible in order to prevent possible cross contamination. Not just for passengers, the draft SOP has suggested measures that could be followed by security agencies as well as airport operators, including doing away with identity card checks at airport entry gates and ensuring social distancing requirements. Another suggestion is to keep three rows of an aircraft vacant for isolating any passenger who has a

medical emergency onboard. The draft SOP was prepared after discussions with stakeholders, including airlines and airport operators. Comments have been sought from the stakeholders on it, according to sources. Notably, the draft document is silent on leaving the middle seat of the aircraft vacant for maintaining social distancing. Aviation regulator DGCA had made a suggestion about leaving middle seat vacant, prior to suspension of commercial flight services in March. “A questionnaire to be circulated to the passenger and filled up by them in advance about their past history related to COVID-19 and quarantine, if any, in last one month. “Any passenger who has undergone quarantine in the last one month to be sent for security at the isolated security check unit only,” as per the document. According to the document, passengers should be advised to familiarise themselves about the new procedures at the airport, especially about social distancing norms and ensuring minimum touching of various surfaces. They should also be familiar with baggage limitations, COVID19 questionnaire, need to register on Aarogya Setu app, possibly slower processes at airports and use of authorised taxis to reach airport,

it said. The ministry has proposed that passengers should reach the airport at least two hours before a flight and do away with passenger identity checks at airport entry gates to minimise rush at the entry points. Passengers can do web check– in and carrying cabin baggage should not be allowed in the initial phase of operations, as per the document. Further, the ministry has suggested that passengers denied travel due to high temperature or age should be permitted to change their date of travel without penalty and airlines would have to maintain their records. Airports should have an isolation zone in the terminal building as well as the airside for passengers showing symptoms and state governments should provide requisite help with medical infrastructure in case an airport does not have an APHO (Airport Health Organisation) set-up, it noted. Airports would have to put in place distance markings, disinfecting all common areas like lifts, escalators, chairs in seating areas, food and beverages, and retail outlets. Availability of moveable hand wash cart or alcohol-based hand sanitisers within the terminal should be ensured, the ministry has proposed.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut had on Monday said any contest during the ongoing coronavirus crisis would have sent a wrong message to people. He had said an election would have been against the guidelines related to gathering and maintaining social distancing. Members of the 288strong state assembly constitute the electoral college for these biennial council polls. As per legal provision, the returning officer will communicate to the Election Commission of India (ECI) about nine candidates remaining in the fray for as many seats once the nomination withdrawal deadline is over (on May 14). The returning officer will communicate the status to the ECI, which will issue certificate of nomination to these candidates by May 26, said the official. Shiv Sena has fielded Thackeray and deputy chairperson of Legislative Council Neelam Gorhe for the Upper House. The NCP has nominated Amol Mitkari and Shashikant Shinde, while the Congress has nominated Rajesh Rathod. The Sena, the NCP and the Congress are constituents of the ruling coalition.

Sr.Acct Offr and PD) purposely procured inferior quality PPE, N95 masks and surgical equipment at exorbitant rates, some of which were yet to reach the DoHFW store. They said when there was hue and cry by health workers over failure to constitute the PC to check quality of medical equipments, some officials “volunteered” on their own volition to act as Verifying Committee to save the situation. The volunteers included-- Dr Neikhrielie Khimiao, Director of Health and Family Welfare as convener and the following as members: Dr Thorhuseh Katiry, Dr Margaret, Dr. K Sorhie jt. director DoHFW, Dr. Longai Phom dy. director store DoHFW and co-opted members-- Dr. G Thong, Dr. John Kat, and Dr. Sendimeren. The four said the volunteering VC held a sitting on April 15 for the specific purpose of to certify PPE, masks, triple-layer masks to be despatched to various districts. However, all were rejected by the frontline workers due to poor quality and not being usable.

The four said the above VC was not given a free hand to verify, certify or check the items for COVID-19 when consignment arrived in the store. The four also countered the reply to their RTI application from DHFW that all items received till April 25 such as 56,000 PPE, 42,000 N95 masks, 2,76,000 Triple-layer masks, 11 ICU ventilators, 50 CPAP machines, 9 transport ventilators, 1007 B type oxygen cylinders,119 A-type nitrous cylinders, surgical items, medical equipment, drugs etc were verified and approved by the quality control committee and purchase committee. They said instead there exist neither verification document nor any signature of any of the members in file noting. The Store in-charge of the department acted as Designated Officer to receive all consignments and distribute them without any guidelines under the pretext of “emergency situation” bypassing and ignoring duly designated officers. Further, it was revealed that the DHFW did not ensure any safety or quality for PPE

B h o pa l , M a y 1 2 (IANS): All students from first to eighth standard will be promoted to the next classes in Madhya Pradesh, according to an announcement by the state government on Monday. School Education Department has issued instructions to all schools to promote students from class one to class eight in view of the corona crisis. Commissioner of State Education Lokesh Jatav asked all the collectors to take necessary action in this regard. Jatav said nongovernment or governmentaided schools in the state that have completed the annual examinations from classes one to eight on or before March 19 will declare the annual examination results as per rules. But in no case would the students be detained in the same class. In schools where annual examinations have not been held, students should be promoted to the next class based on monthly, half-yearly and internal assessment under the Right to Education Act. Students of classes one to eight studying in all government schools should be promoted to the next class based on monthly, half-yearly and internal assessment under RTE Act.

(From p-1) CPO: Expressing concern over Nagas stranded in different parts of the country, the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) has, however, appealed to the stranded citizens to reconsider their return plans and remain where they were for some period. In a press release, CPO president Mikha Kenye and general secretary Veduvo Rhakho said that to return at this juncture would not merit much as all the preparations were taking place. CPO added that any lapses on guidelines protocols would “lead to social unrest which will have far reaching consequences.” CPO also requested the parents to have considerate understanding even if they were desirous to bring back their children. It also requested the state government to provide necessary measures in case of students and employees decided to stay back.

Big spike in coronavirus cases in Madhya Pradesh BHOPAL, MAY 12 (IANS): The corona count in Madhya Pradesh has doubled from 1846 on April 25 to 3,785 on Monday. In 24 hours till Monday evening 171 new coronavirus cases were reported from all over the state. That is a new high. Indore continued to be the worst-hit with 77. The state reported six deaths in a day. The fatalities since the outbreak in March have risen to 221, health officials said. Three deaths were reported from Bhopal, two from Jabalpur and one from Indore on Monday. Mandla and Seoni reported their first cases. The virus has thus spread to 41 of the 52 districts. Of the total number of deaths due to the

pandemic, Indore accounts for the highest with 90. It has 1,935 confirmed cases -- almost 50 per cent of the state’s tally. Bhopal also reported 31 new patients, followed by Neemuch 15, Jabalpur,10 in , Khargone 8, Burhanpur 5, Khandwa 3, Dewas 5, four each in Gwalior and Sagar, two in Bhind, one each in Satna, Rewa, Ashok Nagar, Jhabua and Sehore. Bhopal now has 774 cases, Ujjain 237, Jabalpur 133, Khargone 89, Dhar 79, Raisen 64, Khandwa 59, Burhanpur 60,A Mandsaur 51, Dewas 48, Hoshangabad 37, Neemuch 27, Barwani 26, Ratlam 23, Morena 22, Gwalior 26, Vidisha and Agar Malwa 13 each.

PCAN appeals NPYC urges govt to stress on agri & allied sector MAY 12 (NPN): Expressing fecting the entire country, NPYC expressed members to assist DIMAPUR, concern over the “economic sufferings” of apprehension that sooner or later the supthe people of the state because of COVID- plies that the state gets from other states government 19 pandemic, the Nagaland Pradesh Youth would fall short with the decrease in pro-

DIMAPUR, MAY 12 (NPN): Private College Association Nagaland (PCAN), which met empowered committee for Covid-19, Dimapur district on Monday and agreed accommodate some of the returnees stranded outside Nagaland, has appealed to all its members to cooperate with the state government during unprecedented situation. The empowered committee during a joint meeting with the educational institutions of Dimapur at commissioner’s rest house Dimapur on May 11, 2020 appealed to private schools and colleges to come to the rescue by allowing their hostels to be used as quarantine centres. In a press release, PCAN president Dr. PS Lorin and general secretary Vezuhu Keyho said that on the request of the committee the association had agreed to assist the government primarily for the interest of the student community. PCAN said it was also working with Nagaland University and would be submitting a list of recommendations to ensure continuity of higher education in Nagaland. The association has informed all the colleges, which were yet to submit their own recommendations, to email at pcannagaland@ gmail.com.

Governor urged to probe purchases for COVID-19 under H&FW deptt (From p-1) Certification label while most of the items such as PPE, N95 masks had non-standard packing with ordinary labels or ordinary labels with nonstandard packaging. All 500 Dead Body Bags supplied (for COVID-19 victims) were non-air sealed with very loose stitching and porous. They said that often full amount of money was paid in advance before receipt of the items and done without the knowledge or consent of the Purchase Board or Verifying Committee ‘under the pretext of “panic order and purchase” as claimed’. Interestingly, the four pointed out that the procurement and receipt of all materials which were to be supervised under standard protocol by the four-member Purchase Committee (PC) were completely ignored. Instead, the four pointed out that the functioning of the PC was usurped by the store in-charge (DoHFW); sr. accounts officer (DoHFW); principal director (DoHFW). They said alleged that the triumvirate (store in-charge,

COVID-19: students upto 8th standard to be promoted

5 Stranded citizens urged to reconsider plans to return

since the items had no information about the quality, label, manufacture or expiry date or standard specification. In order to favour a firm, they said one firm- M/s Cozier Enterprises (Unit No.3426, Arya Pura, Old Subzi Mandi, Delhi-110007) issued a letter to the DHFW that it “had to forgo the standard packaging” to supply PPE kits due to nonavailability of standard packaging materials”. They also pointed out that DoHFW failed to furnish details of how quality assessment by various committees were done and the procedures followed. They also said the DHFW did not provide details of quoted rates, purchase rates along with GST and MRP of all items purchased till date which the RTI had sought. In the light of the above, the four applicants have urged the Governor to immediately intervene by ordering a probe, recall all the substandard items to safeguard lives of frontline health workers and also to bring those involved in misappropriation and offences to book.

Congress (NPYC) has urged the state government to come out with proper policies and programme for public sustenance, especially through the agri and allied sector. In a press release, NPYC president, Vilhousielie Kenguruse, stated that the state government, in order to make the agri and allied sector sustainable, should focus towards the performance of PHED, PWD and power departments that played crucial role in the overall economic enhancement of the state. With COVID-19 pandemic af-

ductivity. NPYC has, therefore, requested the state government to prepare the state well in advance before it was too late. Meanwhile, NPYC has expressed hope that COVID-19 testing labs, i.e. BSL3 and BSL2 would be functional at earliest so the state did not have to depend on others for testing of samples. NPYC has also appealed to all responsible to adopt forefathers’ practice of self-sufficiency and sharing with the community and fight to overcome the pandemic.

HC declares Guj BJP minister Chudasama’s election as void

AHMEDABAD, MAY 12 (PTI): The Gujarat High Court on Tuesday declared state BJP minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasama’s election in 2017 as void on grounds of malpractice and manipulation. Justice Paresh Upadhyay set aside Chudasama’s election in an order passed on a petition filed by Congress candidate Ashwin Rathod, challenging the BJP leader’s victory from Dholka constituency by a margin of 327 votes in the 2017 Gujarat Assembly polls. In his election petition, Rathod

Govt to give `10k to people stranded outside state (From p-1) Toy claimed that the government was working to arrange special trains for those who want to return home. He, however, said first priority would be given to senior citizens and patients who had gone for medical treatment, distressed persons and those facing difficulties during repatriation. He admitted that returning of these stranded citizens would be a matter of great concern and challenge for the State, which had fortunately remained COVID-19-free so far. Asked whether the government would quarantine those who returned back, Toy replied that anyone who returns would have to go through a mandatory quarantine in government quarantine facilities, initially either in Dimapur or Kohima. He, however, added that since the situation changes every day, these guidelines would be subject to the changing situations. “Every day the situation is changing. We cannot say for sure. Decisions will be taken keeping in mind the situation,” he stressed. When asked whether the government had any plan post lockdown, Toy responded, “Lockdown cannot go on indefinitely. Someday or the other, we have to get used to the new normal. But the lockdown cannot be lifted abruptly. Relaxations have to be made in a calibrated manner keeping in mind the overall public health.” On containing the spread of COVID-19 outbreak and reviving the State’s economy, the chief secretary explained, “Life is very important but then livelihood is also very important. Since COVID-19 is here to stay, at least for some time, we have to maintain a balance.”

had alleged that Chudasama indulged in “corrupt practice and breach of many of the mandatory instructions of the Election Commission, at various stages of the election process, more particularly at the time of counting of votes”. Chudasama currently holds charge of the education, law and justice, legislative and parliamentary affairs, and some other departments in the Vijay Rupani government. According to Rathod’s lawyer Sharvil Majumdar, the court observed in its order that the then returning officer (RO)

of Dholka constituency flouted guidelines of the Election Commission during the counting of votes, in the manner that it vitiated the entire election. He said the court also observed that the election was materially affected by the conduct of the then RO to reject 429 postal ballots illegally, when the victory margin with which Chudasama won was 327 votes. State Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Nitin Patel termed the order as “shocking”, and said it will be challenged in the Supreme Court.

IN THE COURT OF

MRS. KHESHELI CHISHI, DISTRICT & SESSIONS JUDGE ZUNHEBOTO : NAGALAND

No.JUD/SUCC-34/19-20/08 Dt.Zbto. the 5th March 2020 Notice Calling Objection for the issue of Succession Certificate Whereas application was received from Smti. LHOKHELI U/s 372 of Indian Succession Act, resident of New Colony Zunheboto for Succession of Debts & Security, PPO No 240559117213 & SBI Bank A/c No 11736628256 of Late Hoghushe Sema. Notice is hereby issued for filing objections to all who has interest in the said claim/s within thirty days from the date of publication to this notice. (Mrs. Khesheli Chishi) District & Sessions Judge Zunheboto : Nagaland DP-2319 OFFICE OF THE

SURUHUTO RANGE STUDENTS' UNION HQ. Suruhoto Town : Zunheboto, Nagaland

APPRECIATION

We, the Sürühuto Range Students' Union (SRSU) extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the following dignitaries and organization for their helping hand towards the people of Sürühuto Area who where stranded in Kohima and Dimapur. 1. Shri. Akheto S Jakhalu IAF Wing Commander, VSM, Project Director (North East) for donating Rs 1,07,500 (One Lakh Seven Thousand Five Hundred) procured two buses and special arrangement towards stranded people. 2. Shri Anoop Khinchi IAS Deputy Commissioner Dimapur. 3. Shri Tokai SDO (Civil) Medziphema. 4. Shri Samuel Thyug SDO (Civil) Chepobozou 5. Shri Tsidi EAC Dimapur 6. Shri Tohuka Chophy, PA to Hon'ble Advisor (Tourism Art and Culture). 7. DNSU The Union will place in record their contribution and sacrifices rendered by them. GHUSHEPU AWOMI President SRSU

HIKA S CHISHI General Secretary SRSU

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

6

international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

PoK PM asks Imran to UK’s COVID-19 death toll tops 40,000; worst in Europe attack India with forces Vaccine may never be found: UK PM

A woman wearing face mask as a precautionary measure against COVID-19 walks to take a London Underground Tube train at Waterloo station on May 11. hospitals in that week.” Care homes now account for a third of all COVID-19 deaths in England and Wales. Unlike the daily death toll announced by the government, Tuesday’s ONS figures include suspected deaths from COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus. In Italy, the next worsthit country in Europe, the death toll stood at 30,739 as of Monday, according to a measure based solely on confirmed cases rather

Wuhan draws up plans to test all 11 million residents

W u h a n , M ay 1 2 (IANS): Wuhan, the capital of China’s Hubei province where the COVID-19 pandemic emerged last December, was drawing up plans to test the city’s entire population of 11 million people for the deadly disease, state media reported on Tuesday. According to a report by China’s digital media outlet The Paper, quoting a widely circulated internal document, every district in the city has been asked to draw up a 10-day testing plan by noon on Tuesday, the BBC reported. Each district is responsible for coming up with its own plan based on the

size of their population and whether or not there is currently an active outbreak in the district. The document, which refers to the test plan as the “10-day battle”, also says that older people and densely populated communities should be prioritised when it comes to testing. However several senior health officials quoted by the state-run Global Times newspaper indicated that testing the entire city would be unfeasible and costly. Peng Zhiyong, director of the intensive care unit of the Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, instead that testing was

Crossword

instead likely to be targeted at medical workers, vulnerable people and those who had had close contacts with a case. Another Wuhan University director suggested that a large percentage of the city’s population - around 3-5 million - had already been tested, and it was “capable” of testing the remaining 6-8 million in a 10-days period. This development comes after Wuhan recorded six new cases over the weekend, the BBC reported. Prior to this, it had seen no new cases at all since April 3. As of Tuesday, China reported 84,011 COVID-19 cases, with 4,637 deaths.

than suspected cases. Broadly comparable British data on Tuesday showed 32,692 deaths. Early evidence, though, suggests Britain is faring badly on that front too. So far this year, there have been more than 50,000 excess deaths compared to a five-year average, ONS statistician Stripe said. The ONS said deaths from all causes decreased for a second week running as of May 1, but 8,012 more people than average died in the 18th week of 2020.

never find a vaccine. So our plan must countenance a situation where we are in this, together, for the long haul, even while doing all we can to avoid that outcome,” he said. Admitting that a vaccine or drug-based treatment is the only “feasible long-term solution”, he said the UK has accelerated this with “promising” vaccine development programmes and a collaboration between Oxford University and pharma major AstraZeneca was a vital step that could help rapidly advance the manufacture of a Covid-19 vaccine when it is ready. As part of global efforts, he flagged the GBP 388 million in aid funding for research into vaccines, tests and treatment, including GBP 250m to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations. “But while we hope for a breakthrough, hope is not a plan,” he said, as he unveiled his plan for starting to lift lockdown restrictions.

Raja Farooq Haider While speaking at an inaugural ceremony of the “Kashmir Centre” at National Press Club in Mirpur, he said with the current strategy of the Pakistan government, Kashmir won’t get independence even in the next 700 years. Since May 5, the Indian Meteorological Department’s regional weather centre has started including areas in PoK and Gilgit Baltistan in its weather forecasts, a departure from its earliest forecast. The development assumes significance as New Delhi has always maintained the position that all of Pakistan occupied Kashmir, including Gilgit Baltistan, which is an integral and inseparable part of India.

Trump campaign raises $61 mn in April, Biden $60 mn Washington, May 12 (PTI): US President Donald Trump’s re-election campaign raised an impressive USD 61.7 million in April while his Democratic rival and former vice president Joe Biden collected USD 60.5 million at a time when the world’s biggest economy has come to a virtual standstill and over 33 million Americans have lost their jobs. Presidential elections are scheduled to be held on November 3 and the two campaigns as of now are raising funds virtually. Trump, 73, is seeking his re-election in the November presidential polls. Biden, 77, is the presumptive presidential nominee of the Democratic party. He is

Donald Trump likely to be formally nominated by the Democratic National Convention in Wisconsin in August. The two campaigns have taken a hit as no public meetings are being held due to the social distancing measures. The Republican National Committee (RNC)

No. 9561 Yesterday’s solution No. 9560

Su doku

No. 4180 Yesterday’s solution No. 4179

KAKURO

No. 3205 Yesterday’s solution No. 3204

Across 9. Deserted (8) 10. Beverage (3) 11. Fairness (6) 12. Noiseless (6) 13. Painter’s mixing board (7) 14. Slippery fish (4) 15. Bad dreams (10) 17. Appraise (8) 18. Imperfection (7) 19. Wound mark (4) 21. Three times (6) 24. State social-security scheme (8,9) 27. In short supply (6) 29. Talon (4) 30. Skill (7) 33. Unsophisticated (8) 35. Disparaging (10) 36. Omit (4) 37. Meantime (7) 38. Essential character (6) 40. Wall painting (6) 41. Poem (3) 42. Cloudy (8) Down 1. Antibiotic drug (10) 2. Bird of peace (4) 3. Hobbies (8) 4. Big cat (7) 5. Soldier’s ordinary uniform (11) 6. Patron (10) 7. Desk (6) 8. Muscular or active (8) 10. Stories (5) 16. Rodent (7) 20. Porcelain (5) 22. Curl (7) 23. Inoculation (11) 25. Penal establishment (4,6) 26. Venture (10) 28. Plates, cups, etc. (8) 31. Novice (8) 32. Shade of red (7) 34. Reveal (6) 35. Mournful song (5) 39. Diplomacy (4)

Joe Biden announced that Donald J. Trump for President Inc, its authorised joint fundraising committees, and the RNC raised USD 61.7 million in April, a record for the month. This brings the total haul cycle to over USD 742 million to date, USD 288 million more than the

Obama re-election effort had at this point. The joint entities continue to be in a strong financial position, with over USD 255 million cash in hand. On the other hand, the average online donation to the Biden campaign was USD 32.63, showing a continued grassroots strength even in the time of crisis. Biden for President (BFP) and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) announced that they have raised a combined USD 60.5 million in April. “April was one of the toughest months in the history of our country. We now have over a million confirmed cases of COVID-19. More than 80,000 deaths. 33 million

Americans have lost their jobs to the pandemic. As a nation, we’ve experienced enormous pain. We’ve also witnessed incredible acts of heroism -- from healthcare workers, first responders, grocery store workers, truckers, teachers and millions more,” Biden said in an e-mail address to his supporters. “...The trust you all have put in me as your presumptive nominee is humbling. So I’m proud to announce that for the month of April, we raised USD 60.5 million between my campaign and the Democratic National Committee. And the average online donation to my campaign was only USD 32.63,” Biden said.

Russia to end COVID-19 restrictions amid surge in cases

M o s c ow, M ay 1 2 (IANS): Russia will end its COVID-19-related restrictions nationwide from Tuesday, President Vladimir Putin said, amid a steady surge in the number of confirmed cases taking the overall tally over 221,000. Putin said he had signed a decree ending nationwide paid leave beginning Tuesday and called on regional heads to ease restrictions where possible, reports Xinhua news agency. “From May 12 the period of non-working days ends for the whole country and for all sectors of the economy,” Putin said in a televised address to the nation. “But the fight against the pandemic is not over. Its danger persists, even in territories where the situation is relatively favourable.” He said Russia was starting to exit “gradually and very carefully” from coronavirus-related restrictions, some of which will be maintained for some territories and enterprises. Putin asked heads of the country’s regions, wherever it is possible, to give people an opportunity to leave home, go out for walks with children, and engage in individual sports. He called for sectors of the economy - including construction, industry, agriculture, communications, energy and mining - to begin the process of returning to normal starting. Putin said such sectors do not involve direct contact with consumers. But given that the pan-

Vladimir Putin delivers a televised address to the nation about COVID-19 outbreak at the NovoOgaryovo state residence on May 11. demic situation was uneven in such a big country, regional leaders should take flexible measures depending on the local situation, he said. “The exit or relaxation of restrictions should take place under strict observance of all conditions and sanitary requirements that guarantee people’s safety,” Putin stressed. In particular, mass events will not be allowed throughout the country, Putin said, adding that the self-isolation regime should

be maintained for people over 65 and those with chronic diseases. The President said that work restrictions have negatively affected many sectors of the economy. The number of officially registered unemployed in Russia reached 1.4 million, twice as many as in early April, Putin said. He asked the government to begin stabilizing the labour market, supporting the unemployed, and minimizing the risks of further unemployment.

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back to work, including advice on wearing homemade face coverings though his attempt to lift the coronavirus lockdown prompted confusion. The data painted a grim picture in care homes, which have been especially hard hit by the virus. “Care homes (are) showing the slowest decline, sadly,” ONS statistician Nick Stripe told BBC TV. “For the first time that I can remember, there were more deaths in total in care homes than there were in

L o n d o n, M ay 1 2 (PTI): British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has warned that a mass vaccine for the novel coronavirus may be over a year away and, in the worst-case scenario, may in fact never be found. In his foreword to the government’s new 50page guidance on a step by step easing of the lockdown measures in place to control the spread of the deadly virus, the UK prime minister lays out plans for businesses to gradually start reopening with “COVID-19 Secure” measures of social distancing and for the public to use “good solid British common sense” as the economy is unlocked. “A mass vaccine or treatment may be more than a year away,” said Johnson, highlighting the work being done in the UK by scientists at Oxford University and Imperial College London towards this mission. “Indeed, in a worstcase scenario, we may

Muzaffarabad, May 12 (Agencies): The Prime Minister of Pakistan occupied Kashmir, Raja Farooq Haider, who is known for his controversial statements on Kashmir, has asked Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan to attack India with forces. He reacted while speaking to media after visiting villages near the Line of Control (LoC) amid the COVID-19 outbreak. Pakistani forces have made bunkers inside these villages near the LoC and engage in constant ceasefire violations with Indian forces. Raza Farooq said, “PM Imran Khan must react now and take some strong steps. Only verbal statements will not work. You must move forward and order your forces to attack India.” He added, “It is your duty to protect your brothers and sisters. India is giving weather reports on PoK, we should start updating on Delhi”. A few months ago, Raja Farooq also said that the armed struggle (terrorist activities) in Jammu and Kashmir must continue.

DP-2326

L ON D ON, M ay 1 2 (Agencies): The United Kingdom’s COVID-19 death toll now exceeds 40,000, by far the worst yet reported in Europe, raising more questions about Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s handling of the coronavirus crisis. Figures published by the Office for National Statistics for England and Wales brought the United Kingdom’s official death toll to 38,289 as of May 3, according to a Reuters tally of death registrations that also includes Scotland and Northern Ireland. Since then, at least 2,251 people have died from COVID-19 in English hospitals, according to the latest daily data, bringing the true death toll as of Tuesday to just over 40,000. While different ways of counting make comparisons with other countries difficult, the figure confirmed Britain was among those hit worst by a pandemic that has killed more than 285,000 people worldwide. The data came a day after Johnson set out a gradual plan to get Britain

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northeast

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

Most NE CMs keen to start economic activities

G U W A H A T I / SHILLONG, MAY 12 (IANS): Most northeastern states are keen to restart economic activities, and public services in a larger way and stress on strengthening the health infrastructure, as per their Chief Ministers’ views shared in the video conference meet with the Prime Minister. Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, however, demanded extension of the ongoing lockdown for two more weeks beyond May 17. After the meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video link, on Monday, the Chief Ministers of the northeastern states tweeted or expressed their views through different channels about their resolve to strengthen the collective fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, and their view of the way ahead. According to officials, Sonowal had said that they had been able to contain the spread of coronavirus due to the lockdown, and

PM Narendra Modi interacting with CMs of Northeast via video link.

it should continue for two more weeks. “Relaxation would mean that people would start taking things lightly. Hence, we have to be careful in the opening of interstate movement. Inter-state movement should be kept limited. There should be gap of at least one week for a single train movement to Assam,” he had said, as an official of Assam CM’s

Assam police to book people for abandoning animals Guwahati, May 12 (PTI): The Assam police has issued an order to district police chiefs to ensure that action is taken against people abandoning their animal companions over COVID-19 fears and against pet shop owners who left animals unfed in locked shops, a police officer said on Tuesday. The state police headquarters issued the order to the Guwahati city commissioner of police and all superintendents of police following a letter from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India to the Assam Director General of Police Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta. PETA India Emergency Response Team’s associate manager Meet Ashari in a press release on Tuesday said, “We thank the Assam police for directing its officials to ensure that those who treat animals cruelly during the COVID-19 crisis are booked under the stringent provisions of the law. “Breeders and pet shops sell animals to anyone willing to buy them often on a whim no matter their ability to care for them. And now, there’s concern that both pet shops and the people who buy animals from them are neglecting or abandoning animals in their care.” According to the Indian Veterinarian Association, the current spread of COVID19 is a result of human-to-human transmission, Ashari said. “Till date, there is no evidence that companion animals spread the disease. Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare,” the release said.

secretariat. Sonowal also urged the Prime Minister to ensure devolution grants would be released in subsequent months. He told Modi that tea industry has been hit hard during the first phase of lockdown, but with easing of norms, they had been able to resume farm activities. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma

suggested formation of economic zones on regional basis for the benefit of all states. “Same policies would not work in the whole country and therefore, micro management and planning must be encouraged so strategies can be more effective,” Sangma said in a Facebook post. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khan-

du said that the lockdown greatly helped to slow down the spread of corinavirus in the country. Calling for a relook at the poor health infrastructures, Khandu said that the entire northeastern states are working collectively as a team to fight the pandemic. Pointing out that the economy needs a thrust in times of corona, he said the northeast region has huge potential for investment and urged the Prime Minister to continue working to bring investment in the state. Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, in a tweet, said: “I request the Centre to lift the current lockdown in a staggered manner. Abrupt lifting of the lockdown may prove disastrous.” Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb tweeted: “A range of issues on COVID-19 situation has been discussed. Also apprised the PM about the steps taken by our Govt to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.”

7

Meghalaya woman tests negative for COVID-19 in fifth re-test

Correspondent

SHILLONG, MAY 12: A 42-year-old woman in Meghalaya, who had tested positive for fourth consecutive time for Novel Coronavirus, has tested negative for the virus in her fifth retest, health official said on Tuesday. “The swab sample of the patient has tested negative in her fifth re-test,” Director of Health Services, Dr. Aman Warr said. “She is absolutely fine and stable. We will send her swab sample to North East

Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) after 24 hours to ascertain if the patient has recovered,” the medical official said. The woman is a family friend of Meghalaya’s first COVID-19 patient Dr. John L Sailo Rynthathing, who succumbed to the virus. She was tested positive for the virus on April 15, while Dr Sailo who tested positive on April 13, passed away on April 15. So far out of the 13 COVID-19 positive cases, which include one deceased,

10 have recovered and one case is still active that of a maid from the residence of the first COVID-19 victim in the State. The woman had tested positive for the virus on Saturday. Health official said that the maid apparently broke quarantine protocols to buy essential commodities for the family. Till Monday evening, 2480 people in the state have been tested, out of whom 2342 have tested negative and samples of 125 tests are awaited.

3 drugs peddlers arrested in M’laya

Correspondent

SHILLONG, MAY 12: Three drug peddlers, including a woman were arrested for possessing a suspected drug -yellowish orange powder, weighing 11.63 gram in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district in the early hours of Tuesday morning, police said. Based on specific information, the Anti Narcotic Task Force (ANTF) of East Khasi

Hills district along with officers and staff of Mawryngkneng police station nabbed three persons, including a woman, from Mawryngkeng junction and seized one transparent plastic packet containing the suspected yellowish orange powder weighing 11.63 grams. Police said the arrested persons were identified as Mrinal Kanti Das, (31), Rakesh Barua, (26) and Moitre Barua, (44). A case was registered under Mawryngkneng P.S C/ no. 11(05)2020 u/s 21(b)/9 NDPS Act.

Federation of Khasi States appeals Assam Police gifts 2-wheeler to young vegetable seller citizens to set up quarantine facilities SHILLONG, MAY 12: The Federation of Khasi States has strongly urged citizens and villages to cooperate and consider quarantine options for all returnees to Meghalaya and expressed its full support to the call given by the Synjuk Ki Rangbah Shnong as reported in the media on May 12. It may also be recalled that a similar request had been made by the Federation of Khasi States to the State Government on May 1 to draw up a roadmap for quarantining all returnees to Meghalaya and the FKS strongly supported and encouraged the citizens, especially families of the returnees to discuss with the village Dorbar Shnong to utilize schools, colleges, community halls, including churches and church assets, as quarantine locations to quarantine returnees in their respective villages. A press release by Chairman, Ka Dorbar Ki Khlieh Nongsynshar and Adviser & Spokesperson, Federation of Khasi States Bah John F Kharshiing stated that inconvenience is a small price to pay for the safety of the family members and the community and the state.

The release lamented that it would have been ‘much helpful if the State Government had put in place and considered the roadmap for quarantine to the last mile which is in the neighbourhood, community and villages.’ The Federation of Khasi States added there still time for such efforts if citizens come forward and cooperate and discuss with the Dorbar Shnong to make such arrangements for the benefit of their own family by requesting all returnees to quarantine themselves for a short period in specified places within the village so as to effectively combat COVID-19. Federation of Khasi States further urged citizens of Meghalaya to consider the suggestions urgently as part of its preparation to welcome the thirteen thousand odd returnees coming from all over India to Meghalaya. It also urged all the Syiem, Lyngdoh, Sirdar, Dolloi, Syiem Raid, Lyngdoh Raid, Sordar Raid, Rangbah Shnong, Sordar Shnong, Myntri Shnong, and Council of Nokma to take steps to create awareness on the importance and benefit from facilitating a quarantine location in the villages.

DIBRUGARH, MAY 12 (PTI): Assam Police has gifted a two-wheeler to a 20-year-old woman of Dibrugarh district, who has been for selling vegetables door to door on a bicycle to back her parents during the ongoing lockdown. A photograph of Janmoni Gogoi, with large bags hanging from the handle of her bicycle and a basket on its carrier, selling vegetables has gone viral on social media. After studying till class 12, Janmoni used to help her mother sell vegetables in a market to run their family that included her ailing father. She is the only child of her parents. “My father has been ailing for the past 18 years. He cannot walk. My mother sells vegetables in Borbaruah market. I have been helping her for two years,” said Janmoni, who lives in a village in Bogibeel area of Dibrugarh district. After the nationwide lockdown was imposed on March 25, she started selling vegetables door to door carrying her wares

Deputy Superintendent of Police Pallavi Mazumder handing over the moped to Janmoni Gogoi.

on a bicycle as it was not possible to go to Borbaruah market. Top officers of the district police, including SP Srijith T, came to know about her from mainstream and social media and asked her if she needed any help. “Her self-respect prevented her from taking monetary help. So we came up with the idea of gifting her a two-wheeler so that she can carry her vegetables

more comfortably and in larger quantities,” Deputy Superintendent of Police Pallavi Mazumder said. Handing her over the two-wheeler on Monday, Mazumder said, “At a time when everyone is indoors, Janmoni came out to support her family.” Janmoni, who nurtures a dream of pursuing higher education, expressed her gratitude to the state police, the SP and the DSP.

“I ear n a meagre amount by selling vegetables. Sometimes I have to return home without earning anything. The twowheeler will ease my problem of ferrying vegetables far. I am now determined to work harder,” she said. Her mother Monomoti said, “If my daughter did not sell vegetables on a bicycle, it would have been tough for us to sustain during the lockdown period.

Shed of umbrellas outside Arunachal Despite testing Corona-negative, COVID-19: Risk profiling of returnees bank for maintaining social distance neighbours boycott Tripura man to be conducted in Manipur

Locals wait under a shed made of garden umbrellas in front of a bank, during the ongoing COVID-19 nationwide lockdown, in West Siang district, Tuesday. (PTI)

Itanagar, May 12 (PTI): Aiding the West Siang district administration in enforcing social distancing norms, a doctor in Arunachal Pradesh has helped setting up a shed using garden umbrellas in front of a bank to ensure at least one-metre distance between two persons. Tired of making customers of the bank adhere to social distancing norms, the district administration asked people to come up with ideas and Dr Jumge Padu, a frontline COVID-19 warrior, responded to the call. Accordingly, 53 garden umbrellas were placed at a K Y M C

distance of one metre from each other in front of SBI’s Aalo branch on Sunday by Dr Padu with help from two organisations. The state is now coronavirus-free with the swab samples of the lone COVID19 patient having yielded negative result twice. Appreciating the initiative, West Siang deputy commissioner Swetika Sachan who visited the site said, “The shed will not only help in maintaining social distancing but also provide relief to people from the scorching heat and rain.” Volunteers of the Kibom Old Age Welfare So-

ciety monitor the people standing in the shed and there are separate entry and exit points for male and female customers. “As prevention is always better than cure, we cannot be complacent. “Precaution is all the more important with the movement of people from other districts. If the virus enters the district, the COVID-19 warriors have to fight a more difficult war,” Dr Padu said. He is also instrumental in providing training to various self-help groups in the area regarding the making of masks.

Agartala, May 12 (IANS): A 37-year-old man was not allowed to enter his home by the neighbours even as he tested negative for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), forcing him to go to a quarantine centre set up by the health authority in Tripura. Gobinda Debnath spent over Rs 30,000 to hire a car in Assam, and then it took him three days to reach Tripura, and finally his residence at Joynagar on the outskirts of state capital Agartala. Debnath, who works at a mechanical workshop in Agartala, recently went to Assam to accompany his father to Guwahati. For him, a fresh struggle began when he was about to enter his home at Joynagar on Sunday night. “Over 5,000 people, mostly intoxicated, prevented Debnath from entering his home. Police officers and health officials tried to pacify Debnath’s neighbours but they became more agitated and also tried to harass us,” West Tripura District Health Officer Sangeeta Chakraborty said. She told IANS: “We have tried to tell the people for several hours late Sunday night that Debnath has tested COVID-19 negative, but the locals remained unconvincing. With no other alternative, we took Debnath to the institutional quar-

antine centre in SIPARD (State Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development complex on the outskirts of the city) late Sunday night.” “By gathering in large numbers to prevent Debnath from entering his home, the crowd, who live in a small housing complex and near by, did not maintain social distancing,” the health official said. Sensing the hostile situation, Debnath’s wife Mampi Debnath, a pregnant woman, also asked her husband to go to the quarantine centre. The couple has also a teenage daughter. “As everyone asked me to go away, and prevented me from entering house even as I am a corona-free person, what can I say or do?” wondered a dejected Debath at the quarantine centre on Monday. Debnath lives with his three-member family and in-laws in a small flat allotted to his mother-in-law Bhanu Das under a government housing scheme for the people living below the poverty line. Following the standard practice, the authorities have tested Debnath’s samples near Churaibari, a TripuraAssam inter-state bordering point after he entered Tripura from Assam last week. After testing negative, he was escorted by the police to his residential complex in Joynagar on Sunday night.

Correspondent

IMPHAL, MAY 12: Risk profiling of returnees will be done and it will be a continuous process, the latest Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for handling people entering Manipur stated. State health department notified the latest SOP as the state is all set to handle people of the state returning from places where they are being stranded due to the nationwide lockdown. Of around 45,000 people stranded outside the state due to the nationwide lockdown that commenced from March 25, Manipur government is expecting around 35,000 returning home in the next few days. In first phase, a total of 1140 people had already left Chennai by a special train for Manipur and are expected to arrive at Jiribam railway station, the only railway station of Manipur around 3.30 pm on Wednesday afternoon,. “All necessar y arrangements are put in place to receive incoming passengers,” an official of the Jiribam district administration said. Of the 150 buses arranged for the onward evacuation of returnees to their respective districts, 50 buses sent from Imphal

yesterday (Monday) had already reached Jiribam and reported to the officials of the state government there. According to an official of the state transport department, another 50 buses will be sent for transportation of the returnees who will be arriving by another special train in the next few days. The next special train which will originate from Punjab is likely to bring back people of the state stranded at various places of Punjab and Chandigarh while the third lot of 50 buses will originate from Bangalore, the official said. Barely a day after state chief minister N Biren Singh expressed worry of a big challenge for the state government in the management of large number of returnees; state medical department notified the Standard Operating Procedure. Any symptomatic passenger having ILI (Influenza Like Infections) symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose etc. will be placed in isolated facility for testing. Risk profiling of incoming persons to be done by the medical staffs or state rapid response team for COVID-19 will be a continuous process, the

Standard Operating Procedure stated. The symptomatic person(s) will be transported in separate vehicle(s) to the isolated facility under prescribed procedures of the department in line with the guidelines for quarantine facilities COVID-19 of the Union ministry of health and family welfare, it stated. All the passengers entering Manipur will undergo thermal screening at the entry points to the state (Mao and Jiribam). They will further undergo secondary screening by medical teams in the home districts on arrival at the designated locations. All the asymptomatic passengers after the screening will be sent for community quarantine or institutional quarantine for 14 days. Home quarantine will be not be adopted, the Standard Operating Procedurestated while asserting that strict quarantine must be followed by all persons. Meanwhile, state surveillance officer has asked district health offices to ensure deputation of adequate number of medical team to avoid congestion and overcrowding at the screening centres for passengers arriving in large numbers by train. K Y M C

8

sports

‘Tokyo Olympics may be cancelled’

TOKYO, May 12 (Agencies): The postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympics will have to be cancelled if the coronavirus pandemic isn’t brought under control by next year, the organising committee’s president said in comments published on Tuesday. The pandemic has already forced a yearlong delay of the Games, which are now scheduled to open on July 23, 2021, but Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori said no further postponement was possible. In an interview with Japan’s Nikkan Sports daily, Mori was categorical when asked if the Olympics could be delayed until 2022 if the pandemic remains a threat next year, replying, “No.” “In that case, it’s cancelled,” Mori said. Mori noted the Games had been cancelled previously only during wartime, and compared the battle against coronavirus to “fighting an invisible enemy”. If the virus is successfully contained, “we’ll hold the Olympics in peace next summer”, he added. “Mankind is betting on it.” Masa Takaya, a To-

Yoshiro Mori

kyo 2020 spokesman, declined to comment on a possible cancellation of the Games, telling reporters that Mori’s remarks were based on “the chairman’s own thoughts”. Japanese organisers and the International Olympic Committee, under heavy pressure from athletes and international sports federations, agreed in March to a year-long postponement of the Games. Organisers and Japanese officials have said the delayed Olympics will be a chance to showcase the world’s triumph over the coronavirus, but questions

have arisen about whether even a year’s postponement is sufficient. On Tuesday, the head of Japan Medical Association warned it would be “exceedingly difficult” to hold the Games next year if a vaccine has not been found. “I would not say that they should not be held, but it would be exceedingly difficult,” Yoshitake Yokokura told reporters at a briefing. And last week a Japanese medical expert who has criticised the country’s response to the coronavirus warned that he was “very pessimistic” that the postponed Olympics

can be held in 2021. “To be honest with you I don’t think the Olympics is likely to be held next year,” said Kentaro Iwata, a professor of infectious diseases at Kobe University, at a briefing. B u t To k y o 2 0 2 0 spokesman Takaya countered that even medical experts said it was too early to make a judgement on such a possibility. In the interview, Mori also said organisers were considering holding joint opening and closing ceremonies for the Olympics and the Paralympics in an effort to cut costs. Under the plan, the Paralympics would join the Olympic opening ceremony on July 23, and the Olympic closing ceremony would be integrated into the Paralympics closing event in September. But Mori admitted that Tokyo organisers had not yet obtained the consent of the IOC and their Paralympic counterparts on that plan. “It’s going to a considerable cut in costs and a big message of victory against the global crisis, but it’s not easy,” Mori said.

Women’s ODI WC qualifiers postponed

Dubai, May 12 (PTI): The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday postponed the qualifying events for the 2021 Women’s World Cup and the 2022 men’s Under-19 showpiece in July owing to the COVID19 pandemic. The women’s event, from July 3-19 in Sri Lanka, was to feature 10 teams - the hosts, Bangladesh, Ireland, Netherlands, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, United States, West Indies, and Zimbabwe. Three out of these could have qualified for the World Cup in New Zealand next year. “...after consultation with members and with the relevant government and public health authorities, the decision has been taken to postpone the qualifier to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2021 and the start of the qualification pathway to the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2022,” an ICC press release stated. The start of the journey to the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2022 was scheduled to begin with the European Regional Qualifier in Denmark between July 24 and 30.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

U-17 Women’s WC to start on Feb 17

New Delhi, May 12 (PTI): The postponed FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in India was on Tuesday rescheduled to next year from February 17 to March 7 after the world body made a “thorough assessment” of the situation arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic. The tournament was originally scheduled to be held from November 2 to 21 this year but was postponed last month due to the coronavirus outbreak, which brought global sports activities to a grinding halt. FIFA announced that the tournament will keep its original eligibility criteria and allow “players born on or after January 1, 2003 and on or before December 31, 2005” to compete. “Following a thorough assessment of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent recommendations made by the FIFA-Confederations COVID-19 Working Group, the Bureau of the FIFA Council has taken the decision to confirm the proposed new tournament dates, subject to further monitoring,” the FIFA said in a statement. The tournament will be held at five venues in

the country - Kolkata, Guwahati, Bhubaneswar, Ahmedabad and Navi Mumbai - and competed among 16 teams, with hosts India being automatic qualifiers in what will be the country’s maiden appearance in the U-17 Women’s World Cup. Promptly reacting to the development, Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju assured full cooperation and support to the tournament. “I assure full cooperation and support to make it a grand success,” Rijiju tweeted. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Praful Patel, under whose leadership the country successfully hosted the men’s U-17 World Cup in 2017, promised an encore. “Delighted to share the new dates for the

U17WWC, which will now be held between Feb 17 to Mar 7, 2021. I would like to thank all our stakeholders for their continuous support over this period. AIFF & LOC remain committed to delivering a historic tournament,” Patel tweeted. The Local Organising Committee (LOC) welcomed the decision and assured full preparedness. Before the tournament was postponed, the only qualifying event that could be held was for Asia from which Japan and North Korea made the cut. Five remaining qualifying events - that of Africa, Europe, Oceania, South America, and Central, North America and Caribbean - saw a halt due to the ongoing global health crisis, which has affected millions worldwide.

Sania Mirza becomes first AIFF nominates Jhingan, Bala Devi for Arjuna Award Indian to win Fed Cup Heart Award

New Delhi, May 12 (IANS): Tennis star Sania Mirza became the first Indian to win the Fed Cup Heart Award. Sania was the nominee for the award from the Asia/Oceania Zone along with Indonesia’s Priska Madelyn Nugroho. “It’s an honour to win the Fed Cup Heart Award as the first Indian,” said Sania in a statement. “I dedicate this award to the entire country and to all my fans and thank everyone for voting for me. I hope to bring more laurels to the country in the future.” Along with the award, the 33-year-old also received a cheque for $2,000 to be donated to a charity and she opted to help with relief during the ongoing coronavirus crisis. “I want to donate the money that I get from this award to the Telangana Chief Minister’s Relief Fund as the world is going through very difficult times

Sania Mirza

with the virus.” Sania played an integral role in India securing a first-ever place in the Fed Cup playoffs. She won the decisive doubles match that helped India secure their win over Indonesia in their final Group 1 match and they finished second in the group. After giving birth to her son Izhaan in October 2018, Sania returned to the court in January this year.

She clinched the women’s doubles title at Hobart International, pairing up with Nadiia Kichenok, in her comeback competition. Along with Sania, Latvia’s Anastasija Sevastova won the Qualifiers award for her win against 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams with Mexico’s Fernanda Contreras Gomez and Estonian Anett Kontaveit being the other zone winners.

New Delhi, May 12 (PTI): The All India Football Federation has homed in on national team central defender Sandesh Jhingan and women’s team striker N Bala Devi as its nominations for the Arjuna Award, rewarding them for their consistency in recent years. Acting on the Sports Ministry’s directive to send nominations for this year’s sports awards, the AIFF did not have much trouble in finalising the names. “We have decided to send the names of Sandesh and Bala Devi for the Arjuna Award keeping their consistent showings. So, it’s one male and one female,” AIFF general secretary Kushal Das told PTI. He said their names have been considered for the prestigious award because of the their achievements as well as consistency in recent times. The 26-year-old Jhingan, who has spent his formative years playing alongside the great Bhaichung Bhutia and set-piece

specialist Rennedy Singh in Sikkim United, has over the years established himself as one of the most important players in the Indian team behind only Sunil Chhetri. Since making his India debut during a FIFA World Cup qualifier in 2015, ISL outfit Kerala Blasters’ most-capped player has firmly cemented his players in the Indian team back-line. His growth and maturity as a player impressed former national team coach Stephen Constantine so much that he handed him the captaincy when Chhetri was not around due to in injuries the coach was experimenting with his rotation policy in leadership. He has so far worn the captain’s armband on several occasions. For the Blasters in the Indian Super League, Jhingan has also often shouldered responsibility as right-back. He is known for his physical strength, aerial ball skills and willingness

Sandesh Jhingan

to put the body on the line. “I’m lucky to be a part of this team,” he had said recently. While he has always strived for consistency, Jhingan was at his best during the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. Another name that has attracted attention in Indian football is Bala Devi.

to reconsider Pulisic raring to go for Chelsea once football returns PLneutral venues

Christian Pulisic

Lo n do n, M ay 1 2 (Agencies): Christian Pulisic says the tendon injury that kept the Chelsea winger out for three months was more serious than expected but he’s now fully recovered and ready to return to football. The USA captain

has not played since New Year’s Day at Brighton and his recovery will be a boost to Chelsea once the sport resumes. “I didn’t take it as seriously as I think I should have,” he told Sky Sports News. “It was one of those

you felt you could do a lot of things but you try to push it that one extra step and realise it’s not ready yet.” “It was a fr ustrating process but I’m feeling good and ready to go again.” The 21-year-old has

returned to London following a spell back home in Pennsylvania where he is was spending lockdown. Pulisic said, “In times like these it’s nice to be able to spend time with family, finding shows to watch, playing video games and being able to work out.” “We’re training, following all the government guidelines and hopefully we’re back playing soon. I’m a big fan of golf and basketball and I’ve got a miniature hoop here so I can shoot at my house.” His hat-trick against Burnley remains the highlight of his short Chelsea career when he became the youngest Blues player in the Premier League era to score three in a game. Head coach Frank Lampard has previously praised his abilities but has also urged him to improve in certain areas. “I want to learn to be even more clinical in front of goal continue to boost my numbers, get more goals and assists,” he added. “I want to be stronger on the ball, being able to hold off players and those are two areas that I’m definitely working on.” Pulisic has been learning from experienced duo

Willian and Pedro during his time in west London. The American said, “I think it’s great to have f r i e n d ly c o m p e t i t i o n . They’re all great guys and it’s great to be learning from them and also getting to play with Callum (Hudson-Odoi). It’s a strong area of our team.” At 21 he’s already played with a host of formidable talents at Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea. Erling Braut Haaland is the latest player to choose Dortmund as the ideal spot for his development and Pulisic’s former team-mate Jadon Sancho has already made significant progress. “It’s one of the big reasons why I was really drawn there when I was very young,” Pulisic said. “I think they give younger players opportunities and it’s a great club to go and develop.” “He (Sancho) was given an opportunity, just like I was, at a very high level, and they show you right away that they trust you and they’re going to give an equal opportunity to all the players. He’s done an amazing job since he came in and has obviously shown what abilities he has,” added Pulisic.

Lo n do n, M ay 1 2 (IANS): The Premier League will check possibilities for playing the remaining season in home and away fixtures as no club is in favour of the plan to restart games in neutral venues. Following Monday’s meeting with the 20 clubs, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said there was “a really strong collective will to complete the season remains”, reports Xinhua news agency. The issue of where the remaining Premier League matches would be played was also discussed as many a club has already publicly opposed to the proposal of neutral venues. “Obviously it is the preference of all our clubs to play at home if at all possible,” Masters said. “It is an ongoing dialogue and we’ve been talking to the authorities about the conditions in which we could get the Premier League back up and running and are taking all that advice on board,” said Masters. The Premier League will also hold a meeting with players and managers later this week.

N Bala Devi

Earlier this year, the 30-year-old Manipuri created history when she signed an 18-month contract with renowned Scottish Women’s Premier League side Rangers FC, becoming the first Indian woman to play outside the country professionally. She has played quite a bit in the European top-

flight before the league was postponed owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. Bala Devi was among the leading players of the continent to join the Asian Football Confederation’s #BreakTheChain video campaign, aimed at raising awareness in the fight against the spread of the novel coeonavirus.

Cancelling IPL could cost half a billion dollars to BCCI New Delhi, May 12 (Agencies): The money-spinning Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 could lose more than half a billion dollars due to the coronavirus pandemic, a top official has told AFP. The world’s richest Twenty20 tournament is staring at a first wipeout in its 12-year history after the original March 29 start date was postponed repeatedly. Cancellation of the IPL for 2020 would mean a huge financial hit. “The BCCI is looking at a big revenue loss. In case the IPL does not take place, the loss would be close to 40 billion rupees ($530 million), or even more,” said Board of Control for Cricket in India treasurer Arun Dhumal. India, like other cricket nations, is anxious to see a return to competitive international sport, but has to follow government orders and advice. “We are not sure whether we will be able to have it this year,” he admitted. A one-day international series against South Africa in March has already been cancelled but

it is the IPL, which began in 2008, that generates the bulk of BCCI revenue and is thought to be worth more than $11 billion a year to the Indian economy. “We will only be able to figure out the exact revenue loss once we are sure of how many games we have lost,” said Dhumal. The IPL brand value was estimated at $6.7 billion last year by the Duff and Phelps financial consultancy. Indian broadcaster Star Sports paid more than $220 million for five years of TV rights up to 2022. But it was reportedly targeting $400 million of revenue in 2020 alone.

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