May 7, 2020

Nagaland Post

Watch us on YouTube

www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXX No. 150

DIMAPUR, THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020 Pages 8 ` 4.00

Top Hizb commander killed by security forces national, Page 5

Follow us on @Nagaland_Post

nagalandpostofficial nagalandpostofficial

Dilemma over evacuation of stranded citizens

(R) Neiba Kronu with Abhijit Sinha during the briefing. (NP)

Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 6 (NPN): With around 23,000 to 25,000 Nagas, currently stranded outside after the nationwide lockdown was announced, the state government is grappling with the huge challenge of having to arrange for their return journey, provide accommodation and quarantine them if they so choose to return.

Informing this to media persons at State COVID control room here on Wednesday evening, the minister said of these, about 16,000 were professionals and workers, 6,000 students and 300 patients.

He admitted that it was not possible to quarantine (14 days) all these people, if they returned, adding that the empowered committee

Excise duty on petrol up by `10 per litre, diesel by `13 a litre N E W D E L H I , M AY 6 (PTI): Government on Wednesday hiked excise duty by a record Rs. 10 per litre on petrol and Rs. 13 per litre on diesel to garner Rs. 1.6 lakh crore additional revenue as it repeated its time-tested formula of not passing on gains arising from a slump in international oil prices.

Retail prices of petrol and diesel will not be impacted by the tax changes as state-owned oil firms will adjust them against the recent fall in oil prices, industry officials said.

According to a notification issued by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, special additional excise duty on petrol has been hiked by Rs. 2 per litre and road cess has been hiked

by Rs. 8 a litre. In case of diesel, special additional excise duty has been hiked

by Rs. 5 per litre and road cess has been raised by Rs. 8 a litre.

With this, the total incidence of excise duty on petrol has risen to Rs. 32.98 per litre and that on diesel to Rs. 31.83. This is the second time since March that the government has hiked excise duty to mop up gains arising from fall in international oil prices.

This is it!

“This COVI D -19 has made them drunk. They’re imposing 75% tax on alcohol, which is sanitser for us.”

K Y M C

had been asked to resolve the matter.

Mentioning that Nagas stranded in various cities were not encouraged to return, Kronu however clarified that if the situation demanded that they need to return, then they would have to strictly follow the guidelines and would be quarantined before being allowed to go to their respective places.

For those Nagas stranded in other North Eastern States, he said the Nagaland government would reach out to them through other means of transportation, adding that the government was making arrangements in this regard.

He stressed that interState borders would remain sealed, though migrant workers stranded in various districts of the State would be allowed to move to their

respective districts considering that it was the sowing season. Kronu said the State government had so far received Rs 3 crore from North East Council, Rs 7.42 crore from the Centre and Rs 20.50 crore as SDRF fund. And as per guidelines, a State could spend Rs 7.175 crore of SDRF fund for COVID-19.

Mentioning that Agriculture Produce Market Committee did not function well earlier, he said with this pandemic, new measures would have to be adopted to improve agricultural production. Kronu called for exploiting the current situation to focus on agricultural sector and help make Nagaland self-sufficient.

Claiming that he

had long discussions with prominent entrepreneurs like Entrepreneurs Associates, YouthNet and those people having concern for the State’s economy, he said chief minister Neiphiu Rio has convened a meeting with entrepreneurs on May 8 to discuss how to move forward in assisting farmers and entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, to a query on transporting stranded students in various districts of the State, principal secretary (home) Abhijit Sinha said, besides NST buses, buses of civil secretariat and directorates were requisitioned for transporting, adding that, if required, private vehicles too would be requisitioned.

Inter-district movement till May 9

The State government has allowed inter-district movement of stranded persons to return to their home districts/ villages between May 7 and 9. All deputy commissioners have been directed to make necessary arrangements to facilitate the movement of people to their respective destinations, while NST bus services will be provided for transportation of such persons, Kronu stated.

He also confirmed that altogether 64 calls were received on the new dedicated COVID-19 helpline toll-free number 1800 345 0019 up to 4 p.m. on Tuesday for telemedicine consultation, mental health counselling, digital support for app users, COVID information and complaints and grievance redressal.

Defer salary of CL-I officials and above: CNCCI DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) has proposed to the State government to keep on hold the salary of class I category officials and above up to chief minister by 25% to 30% for the next six months and utilise the amount for tackling COVID-19 pandemic.

Pointing out that Meghalaya had already done the same, the confederation said the government should continue with the move till such time business picked up in the State and revenues realised from GST/SGST and other taxes.

Urging the government to bring in strong austerity measures to tide over the current poor fiscal health without burdening the common man, the confederation observed that a large chunk of the State’s income and revenue was being spent on payment of salary. Further, CNCCI suggested that all

substandard, non-functional and expired COVID-19related materials that were purchased be immediately returned and the money realised be used judiciously.

The government should know that a resource crunchState did not have the luxury of wastage of resource and burden the common man, a release issued by the organisation underlined.

The trade body’s suggestion came in response to the government’s justification of levying COVID-19 cess on petroleum products.

In a release, CNCCI stated that it was aghast at the State government’s response to demands for rollback of the cess across the State. And by trying to justify the move with some flimsy explanation, the confederation said the government had only laid bare its apathy towards public misery, which could be concluded as anti-public.

Out of more than 20 lakh people, the State government employed just about two lakh or 10%, while the remaining 90% people was dependent on farming, business and other economic activities. Therefore it was a simple logic that unless the government gave up its role as a welfare state, it should not have a second thought to rollback the cess immediately, the release emphasised.

Following CNCCI’s representation to the government of April 30 demanding rollback of the COVID-19 cess on petroleum products on the ground that this would affect the business community, additional chief secretary and finance commissioner Sentiyanger Imchen came out with a justification the following day that the cess would augment State’s resources by generating an additional revenue of Rs 55.58 crore annually.

(Cont’d on p-5)

Regulate smooth movement: APO

Angami Public Organisation (APO) has urged Kohima district administration to arrange/regulate smooth movement of migrants and other distressed persons held up in Kohima or any other district who want to return to their respective districts.

In a letter to DC Kohima, APO president Dr. Kepelhusie Terhüja and secretary information and publicity Neithono Sothu also urged the government to strictly adhere to the COVID-19: Guidelines on dead body management and deploy its agencies for managing the corpse till the burial in order to avoid any unwanted situations.

Meanwhile, APO expressed gratitude to the state government for going all out to safeguard all citizens. It also thanked Kohima district administration for distributing essential items to the needy, stranded students and citizens from within and outside the state. APO also expressed gratitude to the police and medical fraternity for their selfless sacrifices.

CPO resents noninclusion of Naga bodies in COVID meet D I M A P U R , M AY 6 (NPN): Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) has taken strong exception to its exclusion along with other Naga tribes’ organisations from the meeting held here on Wednesday to discuss the containment of COVID-19 pandemic.

The meeting was convened by deputy commissioner (DC) Dimapur Anoop Kinchi IAS, to discuss issues relating to people from Nagaland intending to come back from outside in the post lockdown. The meeting was held at the conference hall of DC’s office complex and attended by and Finance commissioner Sentiyanger Imchen.

According to CPO, out of the 15 organisations invited by the DC, only three bodies representing Nagas were included.

Infection rises outside New York as US opens up international, Page 6

Of course, we will share with all: Israel on COVID-19 ‘breakthrough’ NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (AGENCIES): Israel’s ambassador to India, Ron Malka, on Wednesday reacted to reports of Israel’s breakthrough on Covid-19 antibodies. Commenting on the status of Covid-19 clinical trials, Malka said he is awaiting details on the same, news agency ANI reported.

“The processes are not finalised, we are at an advanced stage, yes, of course, we will share it with the world,” Malka told reporters. Malka also said that the coronavirus crisis has brought India and Israel closer. “Both countries are sharing their best practices in combating Covid-19 and facilitating new processes,” the envoy added.

Malka’s comments came a day after Israel’s Defence Minister, Naftali Bennett, said scientists at the country’s top biological research institute have made a “significant breakthrough” in developing an antibody to tackle Covid-19. “I am proud of the institute staff for this terrific breakthrough,” Bennett said, adding that “their creativity and the Jewish mind brought about this

Large-scale antibody testing to begin soon

Ron Malka

amazing achievement”.

Israel’s Institute for Biological Research (IIBR) is supervised by the Prime Minister’s Office and mandated to develop a vaccine for coronavirus. Bennet visited the labs at the institute on Monday and was shown the “antibody that attacks the virus in a monoclonal way and can neutralize it within the bodies of those ill”, a statement from his office said.

The statement added that the antibody’s development had been completed and that the institute was in the process of patenting it.

“In the next stage, researchers will approach international companies to produce the antibody on a commercial scale,” the statement stated.

Israel is all set to begin a nationwide coronavirus antibody blood test among people to find out how widely the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID19 has spread across its population.

According to reports, the serological test will be initially carried out on so-called red zones having high incidences of coronavirus cases, as well as healthcare workers and police who have extensive contact with the public.

The antibody testing will help experts determine the prevalence of antibodies to COVID-19. The testing to be done by the Israeli Health Ministry for general survey purposes and not for diagnosing cases.

According to the report, these blood tests are currently being done on patients and staff at some hospitals in part to confirm COVID-19 diagnostic tests that make use of swabs estimated to be about 70 per cent accurate, reported Israeli newspaper Haaretz.

India’s COVID-19 tally crosses 52k 52,345

14183

1,702

giving an evening update of the COVID-19 tally from Wednesday, its morning update showed the death rising to 1,694 and the number of cases climbing to 49,391, registering an increase of 126 deaths and 2,958 cases since Tuesday morning.

However, a PTI tally of figures reported by different states and union territories till 9.15 p.m. put the total number of confirmed cases at 52,345 and the death toll at 1,702.

Nagaland COVID-19: Results of 51 awaited

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (PTI): The nationwide tally of confirmed COVID-19 cases crossed 52,000 on (Cont’d on p-5) Wednesday with many big

urban centres detecting greater spread of the deadly virus infection.

While the Union Health Ministry stopped

Out of the 763 COVID19 suspected samples sent for testing from the State, results of 712 samples that were received had tested negative, while results for 51 samples are awaited, Health & Family Welfare department informed. Further, 3,126 persons were screened on Wednesday, while 80 persons are currently under facility quarantine.

Demand for rollback on COVID-19 cess grows CNSA demands ‘public Strictly implement D I M A P U R , M AY 6 (NPN): Close on the heels of various business organizations, NGOs, tribe hohos, political parties who have also demanded rollback of COVID-19 cess, the Mokokchung Town Lanur Telongjem (MTLT), Wokha District Congress Committee (WDCC) and Kiphire Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry(KTCCI) have also slammed the imposition of COVID-19 and demanded its rollback.

MTLT: Mokokchung Town Lanur Telongjem (MTLT) has also flayed the decision to impose COVID19 cess on diesel and petrol that became effective on midnight of April 28,2020.

MTLT president Imkummeren Jamir and convener, Grievances Cell Aolong Imchen in a representation to chief secretary said various organizations, business communities, NGOs, politi-

cal parties and even petroleum dealers were taken by surprise by the imposition of the cess and have also urged upon the state government to revoke it without further delay.

MTLT said though it acknowledged that the state government was going through an extraordinary situation including all sections of society who have been affected by the nationwide lockdown, the government ought to understand the suffering of the people.

It said that the demands for rollback by business community, particularly the Chamber of Commerce and Industries of different districts, “are not without reason” and failed to understand why the state government imposed COVID-19 cess on petroleum products at a time when the prices of essential commodities are slowly increasing day by day.

MTLT said it joined the rest of the people in demanding a roll back of the COVID-19 without further delay.

WDCC: Wokha District Congress Committee (WDCC) in a statement issued by its president Rabomo Ngullie and general secretary Yanchumrhumo W. Jami expressed deep resentment at the hike in fuel prices which it said would only add to the woes of the common people at a time when everybody was facing problems caused by the lockdown due to COVID-19.

WDCC said while international prices of fuel have recorded the lowest in the past two decades, the government of Nagaland had stood above states in India and the globe in hiking prices of fuel that tax the common people instead of alleviating their problems.

WDCC further said while NGOs, churches and

individuals showed concern over COVID-19 by donating materially and financially, the state government has unwisely taxed the people and COVID-19 volunteers and caused more burden on the common people adding it was “totally unfair and need immediate redressal.”

KTCCI: Kiphire Town Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KTCCI), in a statement issued by its chairman C.S. Litingse and secretary Tsalichum expressed full support to the decision by the CNCCI against the imposition of COVID-19 cess by the state government. KTCCI said the hikes would jeopardise business and indirectly add to the suffering of the common people. KTCCI said the COVID-19 cess was an “utter catastrophe for remote districts confronting price rise”.

account’ on COVID funds border sealing: WSYF

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Calling for transparency and accountability in the utilisation of the funds received to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, the Central Nagaland Students’ Association (CNSA) Wednesday demanded “public account” of all the funds released by the central government under National disaster management and epidemic funds, NHM, NEC and any other grants to the state.

In a press release, CNSA president Himato Yeptho and finance secretary Imsutoshi Imchen also urged the state chief minister to clarify his statement on financial crisis of the state, which was being circulated on social media.

On the allegations that the state government supplied inferior PPE kits to frontline workers, the association demanded “immediate clarification” and through probe into the purchase of all the equipment by an independent inquiry committee.

CASA also appealed to the state government to immediately rollback the COVID-19 cess on fuel without further delay.

Meanwhile, CNSA has appealed to the state government to create jobs and employment avenues for unemployed youths by “providing assistance and logistics” for local youth to venture (Cont’d on p-5) into private and public enterprises.

DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Western Sumi Youth Front (WSYF) has appealed to the Dimapur district administration and law enforcing department to strictly implement border sealing and prevent any crossborder movement till government lifts the ban.

In a press note, WSYF president Mughavi Awomi and general secretary Bohoi K. Yeptho said expressed concern that with the opening of businesses and road transportation in Assam, it was critical to ensure strict vigilance and prevent any movement across the border areas. It also said sealing borders effectively would prevent transmission of COVID-19 and ensure overall safety the state.

Meanwhile, WSYF lauded the sincere efforts made by various units led by the district administration, healthcare workers, law enforcing agencies to prevent COVID-19 pandemic in and around Dimapur district.

WSF has also extended full support to the district administration in whatever manner the front could do.

K Y M C

state

2

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Facilitation cell for stranded people in Kma

Administrative officials registering stranded people ready to go back to respective districts on May 6 at local ground. (NP)

Correspondent KO H I M A , M AY 6 (NPN): With the government allowing movement of locals who are stranded and desire to return to their

home/district from May 7 to 9, a facilitation cell was set up at local ground by the administration (DC office) Kohima to help and guide the stranded persons.

ADC Kohima, in-

charge of Kohima Relief Camp, Lithrongla T Rutsa stated that around 2800 had submitted their names to return to their respective districts (both students and workers).

These people will be travelling from buses provided by Nagaland State Transport, civil secretariat and department buses. 51 buses have reported till now and more are awaited.

The first buses will go to Tuensang and Mon districts having higher number of stranded people. The registered stranded going to Mon is around 1500, which alone will require 40 buses and Tuensang more than 700. Lithrongla said that these stranded people have been advised to carry tiffin, refreshments, wear mask and carry hand sanitiser.

She also mentioned that they had received around 3000 applications from stranded people of other states, maximum being Bihar with a number of 1200-1300 and 800-900 for Assam. Numbers from Manipur and Mizoram are lesser, not exceeding 100.

They had forwarded the application to the government and will wait for their call for public transport.

As for Assam and Manipur

they had issued passes for people with private vehicle after screening. Till May 6 afternoon, 125 people were being screened. She remarked that the key issue was the social distancing at the moment. All travels are for free and passes will be for one way only.

ASU extending help towards students’ registration Angami Students Union (ASU) has been helping the registration of the students by collecting the forms online and through social media.

Speaking to Nagaland post, ASU president Vizokho stated that, with the main objective to maintain social distancing they had come up with the idea to collect the forms of all stranded students around Kohima online which would ease the workload of the administration. He stated that around 500 forms were being collected, most of which were from Eastern side and Phek and they will be contacted by the administration and given more details for travel.

EA reaches out to help local farmers and entrepreneurs Correspondent

With access of market linkage for procurement of Agricultural produces, SHGs of Serika and Pangtong villages under NSRLM-RD Department, Bhandari block, Wokha, sold fruits and vegetables to local vendors.

Relief drives and financial assistance for needy people

K Y M C

from the government has been a huge reinforcement in the process, whereby council could distribute hand sanitiser and soap to all the 700 (seven hundred) households in the village on April 29.

centre has been arranged in the control room DC office, where enlisting and monitoring of travelers will be carried out. Police department/enforcement have been requested to carry out proper screening at their arrival in each check points i.e at Longmatra, Yangzitong and Longthonger check points. DTF chairperson has also requested the Medical department to organise a mock drill once more in view of the administration and the Police department. She said that SOP issued by the government was not full proof and therefore organising a mock drill with full simulation is required.

Facilitation centre for the stranded at Zunheboto: Deputy commissioner Zunheboto, Peter Lichamo has informed that the facilitation centre for locals/indigenous persons who were stranded at Zunheboto district and wish to return to their home districts or villages has been set up at deputy commissioner office Zunheboto, ILP Cell with N. Nyamok Konyak EAC (J) Zunheboto as the nodal officer. Transportation facilities for local/indigenous stranded persons will be made available from May 7 to 9 only. Stranded persons may contact the given numbers for any queries 9615671064/8731926878.

ADC Tening notifies stranded people: Additional deputy commissioner (ADC), Tening, Rhosietho Nguori has issued an order for indigenous people/ locals stranded in other districts within Nagaland and desiring to return home town/ villages, for three days, with effect from May 7 to 9.

According to DIPR report, the movement of people would follow the guidelines as per laid down protocols: Stranded and in distress persons local/indigenous wanting to travel in their private vehicle (s) will be allowed after obtaining travel permit from “facilitation cell”/ District Control Room Jalukie at office of the additional deputy commissioner, Jalukie, after necessary authorisation from the office; The movement regime is permitted for local/indigenous people for inter- district travel only and having ‘permanent residence/address in Nagaland’.

As per directive, free NST bus will be provided for transportation to those who cannot avail private transport; Special care to be ensured while travelling and all travellers to wear mask and observe social distancing measures as laid down by the government from time to time.

FELICITATION

The office of the Northern Angami Youth Organization heartily congratulates Mr. Vikuolelie Keditsu, S/o Mr. Zhale-u Keditsu of Chiechama Village for securing 3rd Place in Sculpture Competition under “Young Artist Camp” organized by Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan during the 23rd National Youth Festival 2020 at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Mr. Vikuolie Keditsu is an inspirational and vibrant artist whose works are brilliantly and majestically done. The Northern Angami Youth Organization would like to wish him success in his future endeavor.

Roko Angami Neilie Zumu President, NAYO Press Secretary, NAYO

K-871

Union, Thenyuzumi Youth Social Welfare Oorganisation, Women Society collectively distributed fresh vegetables, snails, and local rice to the citizens in Kohima on May 6. A press release by NSRLM-RD Chetheba block area coordinators Surhotalu Swiho and Vekuto Kezo stated that the movement was initiated by the citizens of Thenyizumi.

AVC relief drives: Aoyimti Village Council (AVC) has initiated various relief drives to ensure sustainability of the needy villagers including migrant labourers, daily wagers and stranded people. A press release from AVC chairman Imnukloba and secretary A. Polongnok Lkr stated that, the grant in aid

DC Tuensang order on movement of stranded locals: Deputy commissioner (DC) Tuensang, Kumar Ramnikant has issued an order to all concerned that the government will allow movements of locals who are stranded in any parts of Tuensang district and in distress and desire to return to their home districts or villages. According to DIPR report, the following actions are therefore initiated to ensure seamless movement: A dedicated facilitation cell is opened in the office of the DC, Tuensang from May 5 onwards to issue travel permit and started receiving application of stranded local/indigenous people with following officers as members, SDO (C) Sadar, Shelley Katiry as nodal officer 9862089699, EAC HQ, Puhan Khiamniungan and SS NST S. Meju as members 8787500034/7005310509; Free NST bus services will be provided for transportation of such persons: Booking of NST bus tickets/private bus to be undertaken by this cell. The following details must be submitted to the cell to any of the contact details provided above, name/gender/age/designation/present location/home district/contact no; All executive magistrates through the ward or village authority may compile the list from respective jurisdiction and submit to the facilitation centre; Stranded local/ indigenous people wanting to travel in their own private vehicle to be allowed after the DC allows necessary permit specifying travel dates; This movement regime is permitted for local/indigenous people only and having permanent address in Nagaland; Special care should be taken to ensure that social distancing and other protocols are to be maintained at all times; The transportation of such stranded persons will be facilitated only during the permissible window period of 3 days from May 7 to 9.

Kiphire DTF deliberates on intra district transportation: Kiphire District Task Force (DTF) discussed on logistics in regard to the intra district transportation of the stranded citizens due to COVID-19 lockdown. According to DIPR report, the meeting was held at the DC's conference hall on April 5 led by Sarita Yadav, DC & DTF chairperson Kiphire. The members decided to set free movements of the citizens for few days with effect from Thursday onwards, so as to enable the people to reach their respective villages/ towns within Nagaland. Facilitation

PRESS RELEASE

DELHI DELHI JAIPUR 25 X 16.6

DIMAPUR DISTRICT TIMBER MILL OWNER'S ASSOCIATION (DDTMOA) has distributed rice to every registered timber mill under its jurisdiction on 23/04/2020. This was necessitated because of Covid-19 Lockdown; the labourers have no work and nothing to eat, as such, in order to supplement their ration the Association had undertaken this little deed for all the workers suffering due to this lockdown.

The Association is grateful to the District Administration for allowing us free movement and for making this distribution possible; a Big thank you to all registered members for their selfless contribution and also not forgetting the selfless service from Association office bearers and Advisors towards making this mission a complete success.

(HEVITO K. SWU) President, DDTMOA

(ALONG AO) General Secretary, DDTMOA

DP-2264

DIMAPUR: Financial assistance by various organisations and relief items are being extended to needy and stranded people. With the extended lockdown it has become even more difficult for many households to subsist without some relief from government and social organisations.

AUD and NCF extend financial assistance: Ao Union Delhi (AUD) contributed financial assistance for providing rations to the stranded people, which was handed over to DRC of Nagaland House, Emergency Centre, New Delhi.

A press release from NH PRO (IPR) Kuolie Mere stated that, Naga Christian Fellowship (NCF) Delhi had also provided financial assistance towards Nagas stranded in Delhi and NRC areas to NH, Emergency Centre. Till date the Emergency Centre has been able to provide assistance to over 1500 persons in terms of rations, about 50 patients in medical cases and 17 stranded passengers at Nagaland House, Delhi.

Avantika Associates Pvt Ltd: Avantika Associates Pvt Ltd based at Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh owner, Abhijeet Sahu has been actively donating essential commodities, medical equipments and accessories related to COVID-19 to Nagaland. Abhijeet Sahu donated 100 pieces of PPE kit to Dimapur COVID-19 Hospital, Nagaland in the presence of medical superintendent, Dr. Z Kheshito Zhimo, Dimapur-1 BJP, Yuva Morcha gen secy Nzanbemo Shitiri and staff of Dimapur Hospital.

Thenyizumi village: Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission (NSRLM) Self Help Groups Thenyizumi in collaboration with Thenyizumi Village Council, Thenyizumi Students

KOHIMA, MAY 6 (NPN): Entrepreneurs Associates (EA) has been gaping the bridge between consumer and struggling local farmers and entrepreneurs during this critical times and doing a commendable job to help the public.

EA has been sourcing vegetables and pork from villagers in different parts of the state through members and beneficiaries. Also as part of contributing to relief work, they had been carrying rice and dal to the villages and buying their goods in return to help them with accessing cash for their daily needs.

Speaking to Nagaland Post, EA stated that they had been using their own mode of transportation with permission from the local administration wherever they were working and helping local farmers and entrepreneurs.

They had reached out to more than 2000 farmers from all over Nagaland including the remote areas.

Prior to this, EA has not been engaged in any online

delivery systems and was not prepared for this situation but being requested by the KMC and vendors to buy their goods, EA entered the delivery scene where they came up with a simple strategy of asking well wishers to be their customers so that delivery was easier through bulk orders. It has also been informed that they are very actively distributing rice and vegetables to the needy families specially the stranded students, widows and families with disabled members.

Movement for stranded locals

K Y M C

State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Preparedness level steps up during 3.0 lockdown

3

DIMAPUR: Legislators, government officials and departments continue to monitor preparedness level in the state through meetings, visits and trainings. COVID-19 Hospitals in various districts are being improved and upgraded through setting up of ICUs for any eventuality of COVID-19 patient. So far Nagaland has been in the green zone and with the constant reminders to public to follow government guidelines, it is hoped that the state will maintain its status quo of zero COVID-19 case. Those in quarantine centres are also being visited by responsible officials to ensure their well being in every aspect. Mock drills continue to be part of the exercise in the preparation to combat COVID-19, where district administration closely monitors and participates during such programmes. Public are also assured by government not to panic but to continue with the preventive measures like wearing mask, using hand sanitiser and maintaining social distancing even in public places.

Mokokchung District

Longleng District

Metsubo Jamir and Sharingain Longkumer during visit to DC Longleng M Shayung Phom during the DTF meeting the District COVID-19 Hospital Mokokchung. (DIPR) held on May 5.

a review meeting on preparedness COVID-19 in the district, with the District Task Force COVID-19, in the planning hall Mokokchung.

While addressing the meeting on COVID-19 minister said that “we are facing a very serious situation and this seriousness of the situation should be taken up by all the people properly”.

He also added that those villages in the state border areas needed better intervention in essential commodities, medical and security issues. He also held interaction with the DTF on COVID-19 pandemic and also assured all possible help in his capacity.

Legislators visit district COVID-19 Hospital: Minister of Rural Development Metsubo Jamir and Sharingain Longkumer NLA speaker visited the district COVID19 Hospital Mokokchung on May 6 and interacted with the medical officials on the preparedness of medical response in the eventuality of outbreak of COVID-19 in the district.

According to DIPR report, they also inspected the ongoing improvement and new development of necessary infrastructural works undertaken in the hospital.

Earlier, minister in charge COVID-19 Mokokchung Metsubo Jamir held

DTF meeting cum declaration on burial: District Task Force (DTF) meeting on COVID-19 and joint declaration programme on “no objection for burial of COVID-19 cases” was held on May 5 at the conference hall of deputy commissioner (DC) Longleng. A press release from the office of chief medical officer (CMO) Longleng stated that the meeting chaired by deputy commissioner (DC) Longleng and chairman of DTF, M Shayung Phom, discussed on precautionary measures and transportation of stranded migrants and onward transportation to their home states and also bringing those who are stranded in

Dimapur District

Christian Forum Dimapur having fellowship with the stranded Naga students at Youth Hostel Dimapur on May 6. (DIPR)

CFD enlivens quarantined students: In coordination with the district administration Dimapur, Christian Forum Dimapur (CFD) has been encouraging the Naga boys and girls who have been on quarantine at Youth Hostel

Dimapur since March 24. According to DIPR report, CFD for the 2nd consecutive day starting yesterday has been having fellowship with the youth, singing and praying with them and also spreading the message of love and peace.

Q.: Has the centre failed to take care of migrant labourers?

A B C

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

A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

C

100% 0% 0%

Next poll

Q: Are petrol and diesel

too highly taxed?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST May 7

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Partly sunny with a t-storm

35 24

Partly sunny with a t-storm

31 18

Guwahati Partly sunny with a t-storm

32 20

Aizawl Imphal

Hazy sun with a thunderstorm 31 17

Itanagar Clouds breaking, a t-storm

27 19

Shillong Partly sunny with a t-storm

23 14

Kohima Partly sunny with a t-storm

24 14

Dimapur Partly sunny with a t-storm

31 19

Partly sunny with a t-storm

26 15

Tuensang Partly sunny with a t-storm

19 11

Partly sunny with a t-storm

25 18

Mkg Wokha

Around 48 stranded Naga boys and girls (mostly part-time workers and students working/ studying in the mainland) who have been stranded due to lockdown has been put in the Youth Hostel Dimapur under the initiative of district administration Dimapur.

Already 42 days in the camp some of them are reported to becoming restless and therefore the CFD has been taking the initiative in coordination with DC Dimapur, to enliven them before they were sent back in their respective districts. Meanwhile DC Dimapur, Anoop Khinchi has informed that this group would be given top priority and in all probability would be transported to their respective districts on May 7.

Jain religious initiative: Jain community of Dimapur Jain Samaj under the initiative

Zunheboto Hazy sun with a thunderstorm 23 13

Director of Horticulture Dr. R. Elithung Lotha speaking at the programme held at Zunheboto. (DIPR)

C OV I D - 1 9 s p e c i a l horticulture drive: A team of officials led by the director, Horticulture, Dr. R. Elithung Lotha visited Zunheboto on May 5, as part of their statewide tour creating awareness to the farmers on the importance of continuing to grow crops at this time of global crisis with the theme “Grow more! Produce more! Earn more!”. According to DIPR report, while addressing the heads of offices, NGOs, public leaders and farmers, the director said that, there were presently 135 million people facing hunger globally which could be pushed to additional 130 million more, to the brink of starvation by the end of year 2020 because of COVID-19.

He added that COVID19 was affecting cultivation and food supply chain in Nagaland state as well as the nation which would threaten food security ahead. He encouraged the gathering especially the farmers to continue farming to make

the state self sufficient in horticultural crops for nutritional and economic benefits but with strict adherence to the government’s guidelines of personal hygiene, social distancing like restricting from physical contact with other co-workers in the field, restricting from activities which were usually carried out in clusters and to change to phase manner to avoid crowding, adaption of staggering lunch/tea breaks, compulsory usage of face masks etc.

Sanitisations like importance of washing hands well before lunch /tea breaks, after using toilets, putting on gloves during contact with farm animals, cultivating habits of disinfectant spraying at regular intervals around farming areas, store rooms, adequate washing points at toilets, temporary lunch shelters, equipment rooms etc. He also expressed his concern about the consequences if the farmers decide to stop farming crops and said that

Additional secretary of Horticulture, Zarenthung Ezung Team member disseminating awareness at during visit to Longleng district. (DIPR) Bazaar ‘A’.

executive secretary, Tialemba Phom said the association mobilized and initiated all the villages, church leaders and village councils not to object burial of COVID-19 victims.

The consent of all 52 villages and towns in the district was obtained under the initiative of the district administration and full co-operation and support of the PBCA. The meeting was attended by all the DTF members.

Horticulture awareness at Longleng: Department of Horticulture led by Zarenthung Ezung additional secretary Horticulture visited Longleng district on May 6 and held a programme with various Agri allied depart-

of Ravi Jain Sethi conducted recitation of Shri Bhaktamar Path continuously for 12 hours in a day nonstop for 13 days from April 20 to May 2.

A press release from Shri Digamber Jain Samaj Dimapur member Rajesh Kr. Sethi stated that, a total of 340 different Jain families of Dimapur Jain Samaj united and participated in the “Ghar Ghar Bhaktamar Paath” under guidance of Ravi Sethi. Every day started with peace stream of the Lord, followed by Bhaktamar Path by 24 families (remotely at their own home) for half an hour slot, which ended on May 2.

Bhaktamar Path of 156 hours at each and every home of Jain community was conducted to ward off the evils of Coronavirus not only in the Jain community but in entire Nagaland and India as a whole.

Zunheboto District

nagalandpost.com Poll

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

other districts. The release informed that those stranded people who want to come back to Longleng will be screened at all check points – at Dikhu bridge, Shetap, Yonglok, Mongtikang and Chingtok – and certified. It said those coming back from other districts to produce certificates certifying that they are screened should be produced at the village gate before entering the village and maintain strict home quarantine. Later, another meeting was also held with civil society organisations, the meeting was chaired by EAC Longleng, Pichano. In the meeting, Phom Baptist Christian Association (PBCA)

it could lead to deep crisis in the coming days. He added that, the purpose of the tour was also to take stock of farmers distress across the state. He said the state is blessed with natural resources and fertile with abundant rain and favourable climate, thus, suitable for farming any types of crops and therefore should be encouraged to grow more to contribute. During interaction NGOs, public leaders and farmers thanked the department for their concern for the farmers of the state.

Programme was chaired by DHO Zunheboto, I. Chuba Toshi.

ICU inaugurated at District Hospital Zunheboto: A three bedded ICU was inaugurated at District Hospital Zunheboto on May 6 by CMO Zunheboto, Dr. Zhehokhu Chishi. According to DIPR report, the ICU will be available to all patients who require the facility in the district. The unit was inaugurated in a function attended by various stakeholders and the medical fraternity. Programme was chaired by Dr. Tovika Yepto and Dr. Shikato Sema gave the vote of thanks.

DC Zunheboto notifies: In continuation of the various notifications, orders and circulars issued by the office of the deputy commissioner, the following shall be applicable to Zunheboto district with immediate effect until further notice: The general public shall continue to strictly

teunsang District

ments of Longleng under the vision “Grow more! Produce more! Earn more!” at EBRC hall, Longleng. According to DIPR report, Ezung said the purpose for the visit was to create awareness among farmers and know the clear cut assessment from the grassroot level and to collecting data and identifying the farmers. He also said that the mission was for new policy based on ground reality. Programme was chaired by Y. Bongti Konyak deputy director, Horticulture, N. Kinimi, DHO Longleng delivered the welcome address and vote of thanks was delivered

by Pongshak Phom, AHO Longleng.

Tuensang H&FW, ECS awareness campaign: Health & Family Welfare Tuensang in collaboration with the Eleutheros Christian Society (ECS) Tuensang conducted awareness campaign on COVID-19 from May 4 to 5.

A press release from CMO office, district media officer Apheang stated that, team was divided into three groups and each team consisted of 3-4 members to cover up all the ward/sectors in two days.

The teams spoke on the importance of preventive measures, stigma social discrimination, disposal of dead body of COVID-19 and how to take care of quarantine person etc.

Teams also demonstrated hand washing.

They advised parents not to take children along for shopping during this pandemic lockdown. Further, they encouraged the ward/ sector leaders to take active part in imparting awareness to the people of their respective ward/sectors on the present situation.

MoN District

DC Mon Thavaseelan formally inaugurated the Truenat Lab for COVID-19 screening A patient along with frontline workers during the mock test room at District Hospital Mon on drill held in Aboi. (DIPR) May 5. (DIPR)

Mock drill on COVID-19 at Aboi: With a view to prevent the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, the Aboi sub-division under Mon district led by additional deputy commissioner Aboi, Ajit Kumar Ranjan issued various advisories and guidelines for the safety of public.

According to DIPR report, block level training has been

conducted phase wise for all the CHOs, ANMs, ASHAs, Anganwadis, Ward Task Force representatives with Dr. Neiphrezo Sorünuo, senior medical officer as the resource person.

To assess the preparedness of different agencies, a mock drill was conducted at CHC Aboi. The simulations involved a number of standard operation proce-

dure activities such as patient management, referral of patient for sample collection, testing ward task force meeting, activation of frontline health workers, defining of containment zone, public announcement n the role of ward task force members and volunteers. The incident commander was ADC Aboi, Ajit Kumar Ranjan.

Peren District

maintain social distancing, and wearing of face masks, even home-made, will continue to be mandatory; All social/political/ sports/entertainment/academic/cultural/religious gatherings will continue to remain barred; There shall be restrictions on gatherings at public places of more than 5 people; The movement of individuals, for all non-essential activities, shall remain strictly prohibited from 5 p.m to 6 a.m; All persons above 65 years of age, persons with co-morbidities, pregnant women, and children below the age of 10 years, shall stay at home; All schools and educational institutions, including home tutorials and vocational institutions shall continue to remain closed till further orders; People coming into Zunheboto district from anywhere within Nagaland shall not be subjected to quarantining. However, any person showing symptoms of cough, fever and/ or difficulty in breathing may immediately contact the CMO Helpline on the following numbers 9383 206362/8787853473/70 85122471; Taxis shall be permitted to ply within Zunheboto district only on the condition that they carry a maximum of 2 (two) passengers. Both the driver and passengers should wear mask and carry hand sanitisers. There shall be no hike in the fares charged failing which the permit shall be liable to be cancelled.

ADC Tening directives for shops: In another notification, the ADC directed all shops and business establishments under Tening sub-division to keep open from 6 a.m to 5 p.m on all business days till further order. The order directed that all shop owners must ensure that there was no overcrowding of people at any time and facilitate hand washing kiosks/sanitations. Use of face mask is mandatory in public places at all the times.

4

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 150 Dimapur, THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Cascading effect of COVID-19

W

hile India reels under lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic, the Government’s decision late Tuesday evening to raise excise duty levels on petrol and diesel by historic high levels has taken up tax component on retail price of auto fuels closer to 70 per cent level. This is the second hike in excise duty in less than two months and is expected to help the government garner over Rs.1.7 lakh crore in additional revenues annually at 2019-20 level of consumption. The Centre’s decision to raise excise duties on petrol and diesel by Rs.10 and Rs.13 per litre, respectively had taken up the component of this tax on retail prices by Rs.32.98 on petrol and Rs.31.83 per litre on diesel. The base price of petrol currently is mere Rs.17.96 a litre and diesel just Rs.18.49 a litre.

With this, the total incidence of excise duty on petrol has risen to Rs.32.98 per litre and that on diesel to Rs.31.83. The unprecedented increase in excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs. 10 and Rs 13 per litre on Tuesday may not be the end of the government to exercise to fleece the two petroleum products for additional revenue this year. Sources indicated that another Rs. 3-6 per litre increase in excise duty on petrol and diesel may come midway during the year if the Central government felt the need to mobilise more resources to finance additional economic recovery packages to fight Covid-19 related disruptions.

However, since lockdown, consumption has come down by around 60 per cent. As fuel is still out of GST, raising duties is easier for both the centre and states, helping them raise revenue whenever there is an emergency. Considering the slump in consumption due to travel restrictions imposed by coronavirus lockdown, industry sources believe the remaining 11 months of the current fiscal year(April 2020 to March 2021) will be close to Rs.1.6 lakh crore. A further increase in taxes on fuel would make the product most taxed globally. The current taxes account for close to 70 per cent of the price of petrol and diesel. With any further increase in duty, this could reach 75-80 per cent level. Higher retail price is not an option for the government at this juncture as it could push inflation.

Global oil prices have been at unprecedented low levels since mid-March paving the for steep cut in retail prices of petrol and diesel for Indian consumers as well. However, this has not happened as oil companies did not revise the price of the two products since March 16, (50 days) as if anticipating duty increase by the government. The excise tax on petrol was Rs 9.48 per litre when the Narendra Modi government took office in 2014 and that a litre of diesel attracted excise of Rs.3.56 per litre. Between November 2014 and January 2016, the Modi government raised excise duty on petrol and diesel on nine occasions which took away gains arising from plummeting global oil prices.With economy receiving a hit due to lockdown and revenues falling while need for funds to contain COVID-19 being high, the government the centre and state governments see fuel as the main source for ready revenue.However, high set price of fuel also adds inflationary pressure on the economy that would just not be right at this juncture when the country is fighting the coronavirus outbreak.

DailyDevotion Liberty and the Standards of Jesus

Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free… —Galatians 5:1

A spiritually-minded person will never come to you with the demand— “Believe this and that”; a spiritually-minded person will demand that you align your life with the standards of Jesus. We are not asked to believe the Bible, but to believe the One whom the Bible reveals (see John 5:39-40). We are called to present liberty for the conscience of others, not to bring them liberty for their thoughts and opinions.

And if we ourselves are free with the liberty of Christ, others will be brought into that same liberty— the liberty that comes from realizing the absolute control and authority of Jesus Christ.

Always measure your life solely by the standards of Jesus. Submit yourself to His yoke, and His alone; and always be careful never to place a yoke on others that is not of Jesus Christ.

It takes God a long time to get us to stop thinking that unless everyone sees things exactly as we do, they must be wrong. That is never God’s view. There is only one true liberty— the liberty of Jesus at work in our conscience enabling us to do what is right.

Don’t get impatient with others. Remember how God dealt with you— with patience and with gentleness. But never water down the truth of God. Let it have its way and never apologize for it. Jesus said, “Go…and make disciples…”

(Matthew 28:19), not, “Make converts to your own thoughts and opinions.”

Quotes

Problems are not the problem; coping is the problem. ~ Virginia Satir

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Post-mortem

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Re-ordering the world

S

cience and technology have been the key critical principles to the Homo sapiens that determine progress and advancements. Science and technology continue to offer us new gadgets and apps that facilitates change and in the process taking the world to the new levels. Our lifestyle, working conditions, communication networks and host of others that we use in our life and living are being elevated to new levels. Our boredom and monotonous life that we faced and experienced in the past are gradually being phased out. Nonetheless, Homo sapiens have the tendency to innovate striving to move higher and farther and to what levels no one knows.

We live in a world of technology and in an information age. Science and technology have taken Homo sapiens to new heights and unbelievable grandeur. On the one hand we experience progress in science and technology that contributes to gradual upward movement of Homo sapiens in life and living, while on the other natural catastrophes

and epidemics occur that devastates whatever we achieved questioning the human ability in times of crisis. One such devastating agency that we are experiencing currently is coronavirus (COVID-19).

Initially many brushed aside assuming that it could be countered with the help of medical science.

Almost four long months passed by. The indomitable coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to devastate and pulverize every single activity of Homo sapiens to a grinding halt that the world has ever witnessed. Millions of lives are lost and more and more people are being infected. Numbers of those dying and getting infected would continue to increase in due course of time. In such a challenging context, Homo sapiens with cognitive skills appear to be fragile as against the invisible COVID-19 that challenges the “invincible” Homo sapiens tend to think that they are endowed with cognitive skills and so have absolute control over nature and the cosmos as well.

In about four months coronavirus (COVID-19) covered the nooks and cor-

ners of the planet we live.

Homo sapiens identified what it is—a virus, but failed to eliminate. Our ability to understand what is it all about and the ways of arresting it seem to be prolonging. Paradoxically, as the conditions in life, work and others areas improve, it is obvious that our wants and expectations increase, and in such conditions fragility develops and vulnerability also increases.

Science and technology have extended and offered tools and mechanisms. We are placed in a setting which could perhaps be called as watershed moment.

It is a defining moment which could take the Homo sapiens to another level or we be pushed backwards. COVID-19 has impacted the global economy and has hit the world order so severely many times than that of 2008 global recession or World War 11, spanning over 140 years. With its severity and rapidity Coronavirus in just four months old but has brought about enormous changes in all facets of human activities.

It’s going to be in our midst for some more time and is going to shape the world

in the years to come. It has already halted the production and supply lines and every small and big human activity to a grinding halt ever witnessed.

Global economic order has crumbled and plummeted. Retrieving the world we lived some months ago that at least provided jobs, some sort of security and livelihood, a kind of life to sell labor next day would change and thus become worse. Billion (s) of workforce would lose their jobs resulting in hunger and poverty wherein huge number of death and destruction of people and families across the world.

This would trigger social unrest across the world. It is going to shape the world on a different format in the years to come.

In conjunction to this, on the governance side we seldom see any credible leader who could bring together the world as the crisis unleashed and started looming by the pandemic is indeed global assuming global proportions. Over and above the global scenario looms at large with the rise of extreme nationalism coupled with isolationalism pav-

ing ways to such rhetoric likes “America First”, “So what”, when thousands of people died in Brazil”, “Shut Borders”, “Blaming Others” and many such narrative we keep floating right across the world.

In a global pandemic crisis of this magnitude, there are leaders who operate on self-interest and bloated egos fail to believe in global co-operation and so refrain from sharing information such as data, medical personnel, equipments, research and resources. Agriculture and industrial production and its chains such as transport and delivery systems have come to grinding halt. We are caught between life and livelihood, economy and lockdown. In such watershed moments people want strong leaderships who could take care of their lives and livelihoods.

In such situations totalitarians make use of the situation to their advantage invoking stringent measures with all sorts of cover-ups and fakes news that leaves the debate open between dictatorship and democracy. In case if we make our decision in favor of dictatorship to democ-

racy then it becomes easier for them to hold to power and further build on it.

Citizens in such pandemic become extremely vulnerable and thus give in. The State under totalitarians in the guise of protectionism and lockouts would go all out muting its citizens with nationalistic and sectarian overtones sideling health and economic issues.

Coronavirus is transforming the world that we have hardly imagined. It is going to be a different world where the ways of life, jobs, travel, production and distribution including consumption would never be the same. COVID-19 is re-ordering the world.

It is likely that half of the world work force would lose their jobs and would be on edge of their survival. It is the poor who stay under cramped roofs die in millions and the figures of the infected is going to gets higher as the waves of the virus seem to be occurring in the coming months. Lockdown has pushed the world to digitalization and in the post-COVID-19 it would garner momentum.

Dr. John Mohan Raju

Plight of domestic workers in Dimapur Transforming leadership

A

domestic worker is a person who is involved in work like cleaning, washing, cooking, taking care of children, etc. They play an important role in the wellbeing of the family, There are approximately 4.2 million domestic workers in India. They remain part of an informal and unregulated sector, obscured in private homes, not recognized as workers but rather as “Informal Help” Out of this population, women constitute about two-thirds of the workforce in this unorganized sector.

The problems faced by the domestic workers: The nature of work of the domestic workers is not recognized as work by the state, General Public and also many of the employers. Their work of cooking, cleaning, dishwashing, babysitting, etc doesn’t verify the definition of organized work. Apart from this, poor bargaining powers with no provision for weekly holidays, maternity leave and health benefits, sexual harassment, caste discrimination and much more has only filled the bucket of sorrow of the domestic workers.

Role to be played by the government: Increasing cases of sexual harassment, overwork, acquisition of theft etc, has only jeopardized the workplace of domestic workers. The law should ensure the Right to life (Article 21), right to equality (article 14) and right to the freedom of domestic workers. India by far has only two laws for domestic workers: The Unorganized Workers’ Social Security Act 2008(UWSSA) and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act 2013. But seeing the increasing number of issues and challenges of domestic workers, these two laws are meagre. India should ratify the ILO’s 189th convention known as the ‘convention of domestic workers’.

The state should amend the existing labour laws to ensure domestic workers enjoy all the labour rights other workers do. Include them in the schedule of employment.

How long to wait for their recognition in the state.

Every household has a Domestic worker then why so delay in giving their dignity and recognition. Policymakers should also deliberate on bringing proper legislation that aims to improve social and economic conditions of people involved in this informal and unorganized work.

Role of the society at large: The society too needs to change their behavioral aspects and habitual negligence towards domestic workers. Sympathy and empathy should be there for this vulnerable section of society.

Working for their Rights and empowerment through skill training I have seen domestic workers take so much pride in their work and love the children they care for.”

Their office is their employer’s home. Treat them as workers not as helper or the slave.

Let us show them the reciprocity of love and care that they show us through their work, feel the dignity of work they do for their living. If we cannot bring the change single-handedly, at least be the catalyst to change.

Covid -19 has brought fear among the domestic workers because no work for many days, salary is not paid, they are not taken care of, they were not helped, when many of the employers have asked to stop reporting to work ever since they started taking the risk of the covid 19 spread .the issue of whether the forced holiday is going to affect their pay is also playing on the minds of the domestic workers. Let us not forget the employers, who have shown their love during the pandemic, when the domestic workers expressed their difficulties, the employers have taken risk to help them.

I salute those employers.

If all the employers could show such love and recognize their services for our homes I think there is no need of any law.

Therefore we urge the employers to give what belongs to them that is paid leave. To include them in the food relief. If we see here in Nagaland specially Dimapur there many do-

mestic workers who are migrated. We ask the State Government to request the employers not to cut their pay which is the only income to sustain their family. Let be considerate in recognizing their services for our homes, I am sure we have realized how difficult it is to maintain the homes without their presence. Because when we go out for our work they are the one who manage everything. Therefore let us show our extra love and recognize them as workers and pay what is belong to them expressed Sr. Pramila Lobo UFS , State Coordinator NDWM- Nagaland Region In Dimapur, domestic workers are reduced to helpless dependence on the goodwill of their employers, some who might pay salaries for work not done and some who might refuse due to their absence to work during the lockdown period.

Many domestic workers in Dimapur are just abandoned by their employers in the hour of crisis, asking them not to come to their houses for work resulting in loss of work and income, denied full payment for March and not even bothering to pay them for the month of April. Most of the domestic workers in Dimapur are laid off by their employers due to covid-19, thereby they are left with no means to earn their livelihood as many of them don’t even know where to go. One domestic worker said, ‘No one has asked me to come back for work. I am without any work for over 40 days now.

I did call the employer to check whether we can resume our work after 3rd May, but most denied citing ‘social distancing’, resulting in loss of work and income. ‘These experiences during lockdown indicate aggravated forms of injustices and disregard towards domestic workers in Nagaland. A systemic denial to recognize domestic workers as ‘workers’ in the Schedule of Employment of the Minimum Wages Act by the Govt. of Nagaland has always left them at the mercy of the employer.

Adv. Limanochet, Legal Advisor ANDWU

in the face of the pandemic

T

he world is currently experiencing the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which may well linger long after the pandemic itself is resolved.

Devastating death tolls are ripping apart families, and no one has been spared from the economic collapse brought on by this pandemic. Once we emerge from this crisis, the very fabric of our society may be irrevocably altered. As we put our faith in our leaders, we question if there is anything our leaders can actually do to alleviate this emergency; we also recognize that some leaders have responded better than others during this challenging time.

Leaders are simply a reflection of the Collective Consciousness of the people under them. In the words of psychologist Roger K. Allen, PhD: “People live in one of four states of being, which could be considered levels of emotional development or maturity. These are: survival (fear-based living); security (duty-based living), success (ego based living) and serenity (love/trust-based living).”

If the Collective Consciousness of the people is fear-based, their leader will exhibit characteristics reflective of that state: using power, coercion, blame, and other negative tools to accomplish ends which may not be in the best interest of the people.

If the Collective Consciousness of the people is rooted in love/trust-based living, their leader will have a more altruistic approach in dealing with crises, taking into consideration the needs of all the people and not just a select few.

The best way to gain a leadership that is grounded in love/trust-based living rather than fear-based living is to find a way to elevate the Collective Consciousness of the country. Transcendental Meditation is an effective way to do that.

There is a powerful brain-based technology known as Invincible Defense

Technology (IDT), which utilizes the non-religious Transcendental Meditation (TM) program and its advanced techniques. Militaries worldwide are beginning to use IDT as a ground-breaking and effective means to help solve supposedly insurmountable problems and create lasting peace. Scientific research has repeatedly demonstrated that this advanced IDT practice raises the consciousness of all those within its field.

Positive solutions to ongoing problems occur naturally and society more readily shifts from division to unity.

How can this be? While it seems too simple to be true, sometimes the simplest approach is the most effective. For those who remain skeptical, we recommend the following book: An Antidote to Violence: Evaluating the Evidence, by Barry Spivack and Patricia Anne Saunders which details in depth the scientific research supporting this approach.

Also, during these stressful times readers can follow Tony Nader, M.D., Ph.D., M.A.R.R. on Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/DrTonyNader. Dr. Nader is an Invincible Defense Technology (IDT) expert and medical doctor trained at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Ph.D. in neuroscience) and Harvard University. He leads daily online TM meditations, and his Facebook page has videos featuring a variety of breathing techniques which produce a calming effect.

COVID-19 may be an opportunity for the entire world to re-evaluate its approach to societal issues and try something new. Our governments have no time to lose: as the Coronavirus impacts its citizens and its economy during this stressful time, we all need to come up with immediate and effective solutions to this virus and societal issues in general before it is too late.

Arlene J. Schar and Dr. David Leffler

Reader’s Post

Early evacuation of stranded Nagas in West Bengal

Sir,

We, the Naga Students’ Union Kolkata (NSUK), have been waiting for the Government of Nagaland for the early evacuation of stranded Nagas here in West Bengal, but till date we have not received any official directive. We have come to know from the media that Nagaland Govt. is about to evacuate Nagas in phase manner; Nagas outside of North East will be the last on the list. We have been receiving numerous frantic calls from stranded Nagas here. Many are finding it difficult to survive since they have exhausted their ration and money and for which majority of stranded people are so apprehensive. Since we are not in a position to rehabilitate or give them relief, we request your esteemed office to give us a clear directive as to when stranded Nagas in West Bengal will be evacuated to Nagaland.

If the Govt. of Nagaland is not in a position to give a clear directive on it we shall arrange the transportation on our own in consultation with the stranded people and Nagaland House authority. Therefore, on behalf of the stranded Nagas we the NSUK would like to request the Govt. of Nagaland to kindly give us movement permit to cross West Bengal, Assam and enter Nagaland. Your prompt response to our urgent and desperate need is anticipated.

NSUK President Dinenli and General Secretary Vike C Nyuwi Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

national/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Top Hizb commander killed by security forces private phones and mobile internet SERVICE suspended in kashmir Valley

State govt servants don’t need pass D I M A P U R , M AY 6 (NPN): State government has notified that there would not be requirement of any separate pass for the movement of any government servant from his/her residence to office and back.

Further, the vehicles being used by the government servant for his/her movement including private vehicles, if any, would also not require any passes/permit for movement. The government servants have been advised to carry official ID card and produce wherever required so as to not face any inconvenience.

Defer salary of CL-I officials and above...

(From p-1) He had also asserted that imposition of the cess would not lead to hike in prices of essential commodities.

Reacting to this, CNCCI claimed that hike in fuel prices as a result of the cess would lead to price hike as essential goods were transported by goods carriage. It also reiterated its demand for rollback of the cess. Condemning the statement, the trade body said this proved that the government had no heart for the common man’s misery, besides showing its true colours. It also wondered how the government could even in its wildest imagination contemplate such a proposition to extract the last penny from the common man.

In this July 30, 2017 photo, is seen Commander-inChief of Hizbul Mujahideen Riyaz Naikoo. (PTI) ing two Army officers Colonel Ashutosh Sharma and Major Anuj Sood, were killed in Handwara.

News of the killing of 32-year-old Naikoo, who carried a reward of Rs 12 lakh on his head and had

A police spokesperson said earlier in the morning that a top terrorist commander along with an accomplice was trapped in an encounter but did not reveal his identity. Later in the day, officials disclosed that the man in their sights was Naikoo, the man they had been looking for for eight years.

He became the de facto chief of the terror group after the death of Burhan Wani, the poster boy of militancy in the Valley, in July 2016.

In a separate encounter at Sharshali village, two militants, who are yet to be identified, were gunned down in an encounter with security forces.

Acting on a tip-off about the presence of militants in the village, security forces launched a cordon and search operation. It turned into an encounter after militants opened fire towards security forces’ positions, officials said.

The forces retaliated, killing the two militants, they said.

NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (AGENCIES): Public transport, which has been off roads since the lockdown against coronavirus was announced on March 25, will soon begin rolling, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari assured transporters today. There, however, will be some restrictions, said the minister, who handles the Road Transport and Highways portfolio.

Sources said buses can start plying in the green and orange zones with half capacity post May 17, when the current phase of lockdown ends.

In a communique today, the government said Mr Gadkari, at a videoconference with the Bus and Car Operators Confederation of India, said public transport may open soon with some guidelines.

He, however, cautioned about maintaining social distance and adopting all safety measures like hand wash, sanitizing and face masks, while operating buses and cars, the government said.

Nitin Gadkari The government has already offered relief from some of the restrictions, especially in green zones where there are no instances of coronavirus.

The state gover nments, which decided on the specifics, have allowed some industrial sectors to operate and standalone shops to open.

In Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejrwial has allowed standalone shops, private offices with 33 per cent workforce, self-employed people including

domestic helps and technicians, to operate in nonhotspot zones.

But though partial movement of private vehicles has been allowed in these areas, in absence of public transport, not much has moved on the ground.

Mr Gadkari said he is in regular touch with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who are working overtime to uplift the economy during these difficult days of COVID-19 pandemic.

CPO resents Hydroxychloroquine no wonder drug for Govt to provide additional fogging non-inclusion of machines, sprayers to dists Naga bodies... treating COVID-19; can be fatal: Experts DIMAPUR, MAY 6 (NPN): Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday informed that the government, through the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority, will be distributing additional 17 fogging machines and 100 sprayers with sodium hypochlorite to all the district headquarters.

Earlier during the day, Rio also visited Tuensang and Mon district, where he inspected the designated COVID-19 hospital. He was accompanied by deputy chief minister Y Patton, environment, forest & climate change and justice & law minister CM Chang and health & family welfare (H&FW) minister S Pangnyu Phom.

Rio also distributed relief materials and Patton gave away walkie-talkie sets to village guards of Tuensang, Longleng, Kiphire and Shamator. The chief minister and his entourage also held meetings with district officials, representatives of civil society groups, church leaders and NGOs. Pointing out loopholes even in developed countries, he asserted that the State government was trying its best to fight the disease. Despite hardships increasing in the country due to lockdown, Rio

asked the government departments, civil society groups, churches and NGOs to strive for the safety of people.

He also announced relaxation of the lockdown and movement of inter-district stranded individuals. Taking advantage of the current situation and the Nagaland being a consumer society, Rio urged everyone to work hard and improve local economy by focusing on agriculture and allied sector and become progressive entrepreneurs.

He also spoke on the COVID cess levied on fuel to augment resources of the State government to enable it to improve medical infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Patton also directed the DCs to inform all villages to relax restrictions and allow the stranded people to enter. Responding to the memorandum demanding ventilator at Tuensang district hospital, H&FW minister said ventilators were currently being installed at Kohima and Dimapur, assuring that these would be made available in other districts too.

He advised the district administration and medical department to check the quality of incoming consignments and return, if these were not up to the mark.

Demand for rollback on COVID-19 cess grows

(From p-1) It said that far flung districts faced various problems such as people having to travel long distances, the deplorable roads and risks of travel during monsoon. It said vehicles carrying goods often get stranded mid-way and therefore the state government ought to understand these problems faced by the people particularly on hikes in prices of fuel.

KTCCI said hike in prices of fuel will definitely affect transporters and push up prices of all commodities which the common people will have to bear the brunt. In view of the above, KTCCI urged upon the government to rollback the cess on petrol and diesel while reaffirming its support to the stand taken by the CNCCI.

Aarogya Setu absolutely robust app, says Ravi Shankar Prasad NEW DELHI, MAY 6 (PTI): Rejecting charges by the opposition that the Aarogya Setu application breaches privacy, Union IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has asserted that the platform is “absolutely robust, safe and secure” in terms of privacy protection and data security.

“This is a technological invention of India -- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, our scientists, NIC, Niti Aayog and some private (entities) -- whereby it is a perfectly accountable platform to help in the fight against COVID-19,” Prasad told PTI. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has alleged that the Aarogya Setu app is a “sophisticated surveillance system, outsourced to a private operator, with no institutional oversight”. He also said it raises serious data security and privacy concerns. “Technology can help keep us safe; but fear must

escaped the police thrice, led to some incidents of people pelting stones at security forces. However, this was handled with care to ensure there was was no collateral damage, an official said.

Giving details of the operation, officials said security forces zeroed in on Naikoo’s hideout on Tuesday. But instead of initiating an immediate operation, the security forces fortified their cordon around the area and plugged all escape routes so he could not escape as he had done thrice earlier.

Army units were pushed along with the special operations group of Jammu and Kashmir Police at dawn, the officials said. A gunfight broke out after Naikoo and his accomplice fired at the security personnel.

CRPF and police forces laid an outer cordon to keep the public away from the encounter site.

Shortly after noon, one of the militants came out from the house firing indiscriminately at the security forces in his attempt to escape. However, he was shot dead in the retaliatory fire.

It was not immediately known whether that was Naikoo or his accomplice.

Public transport may resume soon with guidelines: Gadkari

not be leveraged to track citizens without their consent,” Gandhi had said. Countering the claim, Prasad said, “It is safe and secure. The data is in an encrypted form.

Most important, it is for safety of Indians in public interest because it cautions you in the event there is a COVID-infected person in your vicinity.” The minister said the mobile application also helps tracing contacts in the event a person is infected. “It is a very robust invention of technology and many other countries are using similar applications to fight COVID-19. And the second most important point is that the data is limited. Routine data remains for 30 days and in the event you are infected, then (for) 45 to 60 days. Then automatically it will vanish,” he explained. Prasad said there is always an option to scratch the app out of the phone or uninstall it.

(From p-1) CPO president Vichütuolie Mere and general secretary Mhiesisato Vüprü, urged upon Nagas in particular and people of Nagaland in general, to ponder on whether the State government could take decisions through these organisations to decide about “our people” intending to come home after the lockdown.

CPO also asked whether those non-Naga organisations invited to the meeting were competent to take decision on behalf of Nagas and whether they were capable and trusted by the people in general.

CPO also asked whether the government could handle the problems without the involvement of indigenous inhabitants of Dimapur? It also observed that it has happened to “us today” and feared that the same thing could happen in other districts.

It also appealed to the government, in case its machineries were not aware, to advise officials to have coordination with apex bodies within the district for containment of any problem.

CPO also demanded that the government immediately replace the officers who were not capable and creating more headache, not only to the government but to citizens as well.

Nikos Hospital & Research Centre CHANGE OF ADDRESS FOR CONSULTATION

Dr. Munguliba, MD FECG

ST. MARY’S HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL Latika Complex, Nyamo Lotha Road, Dimapur

CBSE AFFILIATED SCHOOL Website: www.stmarysdimapur.com

ADMISSION NOTICE

FOR Cl. 11 (Eleven) FOR THE SESSION 2020-21 FOR ARTS (GIRLS) COMMERCE & SCIENCE CO.ED. (BOYS & GIRLS).

SOME HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SCHOOL

DC-403

ZION HOSPITAL & RESEARCH CENTRE

(1) Experienced and Dedicated Teaching Faculties (2) Counselling Facility (3) Well-furnished Classrooms with smart class facility available.

(4) 24 Hours Generator Facility (5) Bus Service (6) Regular Weekly and Monthly Tests (7) Parent-Teacher Interaction (PTI) (8) Laboratories with all the latest equipments (9) Hostel Facility for GIRLS

PURANA BAZAAR : DIMAPUR

NOTICE

potentially prolongs the QTc (heartbeat) with consequences of sudden cardiac arrest death and various arrhythmias. This has also been documented in prominent studies,” he explained. The assistant professor of anaesthesia at AIIMS said there are contradictory reports on HCQ usage for treating COVID-19.

As the pandemic spreads and the urgency for effective treatment of COVID19 mounts, several countries, including the US, have started relying heavily on HCQ, majorly used in the treatment of malaria and rheumatoid-arthritis.

India has become the biggest supplier of the drug and has fulfilled large orders from countries such as the US, UAE and UK. With US President Donald Trump touting the anti-malaria drug as a definite cure for COVID-19, his administration has stockpiled millions of doses of HCQ despite the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issuing a safety communication regarding the known side effects of the drug.

The FDA said HCQ has been given ‘Emergency Use Authorisation’ for the treatment of patients who have tested positive for coronavirus but its side effects include serious and potentially life-threatening heart rhythm problems.

In India too, HCQ is being used by many hospitals to treat COVID-19 patients though there is no scientific proof of its benefit for the disease.

“We are using HCQ among other drugs but ignoring its extreme hazardous side effects,” Misra said.

 Interested students can mail their Academic records of Cl- 9 along with half yearly or Pre- Board marks of Cl- 10 in the School email id– stmarysdimapur1992@gmail.com with their Name, Contact Number & the Stream they are applying for.  For further information please come to the School Office between 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Midland, Dimapur-797112 Reg. No. NHCE/DMR/30/LIC/2012

CONSULTANT INTERNAL MEDICINE & ECHOCARDIOGRAPHER WILL BE AVAILABLE AT NIKOS HOSPITAL MONDAY TO SATURDAY TIMING :- 9 AM – 4 PM

New Delhi, May 6 (PTI): As countries around the world explore the potential of hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 patients, several experts have sounded a note of warning to say it is not a wonder drug and may even be fatal in some cases.

While frantic efforts are underway to develop a vaccine and doctors all over try and control the spread of the disease for which there is yet no cure, hydroxychloroquine, or HCQ, has emerged as a prime focus area of treatment.

This reliance on HCQ must immediately stop, the experts say, adding their voices to the growing debate to stress that there is no scientific evidence to prove that it is beneficial in treating COVID-19.

“It is only on anecdotal evidence that doctors are using HCQ along with other antiviral medication (used in HIV and other viral infections) as empiric therapy to treat COVID-19 patients as there is no definite treatment available yet,” said M C Misra, former director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi and one of India’s top surgeons.

“However, there have been reports of some patients developing cardiac arrhythmias due to hydroxychloroquine which can cause sudden cardiac death,” Misra told PTI. Yudhyavir Singh, a core member of AIIMS’ COVID-19 team deployed at the hospital’s trauma centre, agreed.

“Globally, some deaths have been reported due to the administration of HCQ alone and along with azithromycin as well.

HCQ blocks the potassium channel and

We are happy to announce that the hospital will resume all services i.e. OPD, IPD, Operations, Dialysis, Vaccinations and Emergency etc. from 9th May 2020.

The following practices will be strictly adhered to while inside the hospital premises.

1. Hand washing at the entrance.

2. Compulsory mask wearing by patient and attendants.

3. Screening at the FLU CORNER before registration at reception.

4. Only one attendant for outpatients and two for inpatients.

DC-402

SUBJECTS OFFERED ARTS STREAM

COMMERCE STREAM

SCIENCE STREAM

1 ENGLISH

1

ENGLISH

1 ENGLISH

2 HISTORY

2

ACCOUNTANCY 2 PHYSICS

3 POLITICAL SCIENCE 3

ECONOMICS

3 CHEMISTRY

4 PHYSICAL EDUCATION

4

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

4 PHYSICAL EDUCATION

5 PSYCHOLOGY/ SOCIOLOGY

5

BUSINESS STUDIES

5 BIOLOGY/ MATHS

6 PAINTING / IP/ DANCE/HINDI

6

PAINTING / IP/ DANCE/HINDI

6 PAINTING / IP/ DANCE/HINDI

DP-2269

S R I NAG A R , M AY 6 (PTI): In a major breakthrough in the fight against terror, top Hizbul Mujahideen commander Reyaz Naikoo, on the run for eight years, was killed on Wednesday by security forces in his village in Kashmir’s Pulwama district, police said.

Anticipating a law and order problem, authorities suspended mobile telephone services of private operators and mobile internet services across the Valley.

Security forces engaged with militants in two gunbattles in the south Kashmir district, one in Sharshalli village where two unidentified militants were killed and the other in Beighpora in Awantipora where they finally put down Naikoo who was holed up with another terrorist.

His accomplice attempted to escape by charging at security forces but was also killed.

The gunning down of the top terrorist commander comes three days after eight security personnel, includ-

5

6

international

Infection rises outside New York as US opens up

President Donald Trump speaks to the media on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday. (AP/PTI) Italy to become the highest When the still lockedin Europe and second-high- down area is included, new est in the world behind the infections in the US appear United States. The official to be declining, according to number of dead worldwide the AP analysis. It found that surpassed a quarter-million, the five-day rolling average

by Johns Hopkins’ count, for new cases has decreased though the true toll is be- from 9.3 per 100,000 people lieved to be much higher. three weeks ago on April 13 The densely packed to 8.6 on Monday.

New York metropolitan But subtracting the area, consisting of about New York area from the 20 million people across a analysis changes the story. region that encompasses Without it, the rate of new the city’s northern suburbs, cases in the U.S. increased Long Island and northern over the same period from New Jersey, has been the 6.2 per 100,000 people to hardest-hit corner of the 7.5. country, accounting for at While the daily numleast one-third of the na- ber of new deaths in the tion’s 70,000 deaths.

New York area has declined

China reports 2 COVID-19 cases; 20 asymptomatic infections Beijing, May 6 (PTI): China has reported two confirmed coronavirus cases and 20 new asymptomatic infections, including three imported ones, taking their total number to over 960, health authorities said on Wednesday.

The National Health Commission (NHC) said on Wednesday that no new locally transmitted cases of COVID-19 were reported on Tuesday across the Chinese mainland. However, two confirmed cases arriving from outside the mainland were reported in China’s Shaanxi Province, it said.

Twenty new asymptomatic infections of the novel coronavirus were reported Tuesday, including

three imported ones, the NHC said. With this total number of asymptomatic cases has increased to 967.

Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others. The death toll of coronavirus cases in China remained 4,633 people as no new fatalities were reported, the NHC said. The total number COVID-19 cases in China reached 82,883, while 339 patients who were still undergoing treatment, the NHC said, adding that 77,911 people have been discharged from hospitals after treatment.

Crossword

Su doku

KAKURO

markedly in recent weeks, it has essentially plateaued in the rest of the U.S. Without greater New York, the rolling five-day average for new deaths per 500,000 people dropped slightly from 1.86 on April 20th to 1.82 on Monday.

U.S. testing for the virus has been expanded, and that has probably contributed to the increasing rate of confirmed infections.

But it doesn’t explain the entire increase, said Dr. Zuo-Feng Zhang, a public health researcher at the University of California at Los Angeles.

“This increase is not because of testing. It’s a real increase,” he said.

Pockets of America far from New York City are seeing ominous trends.

Deaths in Iowa surged to a new daily high of 19 on Tuesday, and 730 workers at a single Tyson Foods pork plant tested positive. On Monday, Shawnee County, home to Topeka, Kansas, reported a doubling of cases from last week on the same day that business restrictions began to ease.

Gallup, New Mexico, is under a strict lockdown

until Thursday because of an outbreak, with guarded roadblocks to prevent travel in and out and a ban on more than two people in a vehicle. Authorities have deployed water tankers, hospital space is running short, and a high school gym is now a recuperation center with 60 oxygen-supplied beds.

On Monday, a model from the University of Washington nearly doubled its projection of COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. to around 134,000 through early August, with a range of 95,000 to nearly 243,000.

Dr. Christopher Murray, director of the institute that created the projections, said the increase is largely because most states are expected to ease restrictions by next week.

Without stay-at-home orders and similar measures, Murray said, “we would have had exponential growth, much larger epidemics and deaths in staggering numbers.” But cooperation is waning, with cellphone location data showing people are getting out more, even before their states reopen, he said.

COVID-19 cases rise by 42% in Africa Johannesburg, May 6 (AP): The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Africa has shot up 42 per cent in the week ending Tuesday, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

The number of cases is expected to surpass 50,000 later Wednesday, and the number of deaths could top 2,000. All but one of Africa’s 54 countries, tiny Lesotho, has reported virus cases.

The World Health Organization has warned that Africa could become the next epicenter of the pandemic.

Severe shor tages of testing kits mean the number of actual cases across the continent is unknown.

In Somalia, aid groups are warning that the number of virus cases is far higher than the 835 reported.

The country has one of the world’s weakest health systems. Twelve African nations now have more than 1,000 confirmed cases.

Taiwan pushes for inclusion in World Health Assembly Taipei, May 6 (AP): Taiwan’s exclusion from the upcoming World Health Assembly would harm the global response to the coronavirus pandemic and cannot be excused by mere rules of procedure, the island’s health minister said on Wednesday.

Chen Shih-chung told international media at a news conference that global health officials “have not been honest and failed in their responsibilities,” in an apparent reference to the UN World Health Organization that oversees the assembly.

“As I said since the beginning of the epidemic, no one is able to accurately predict how the situation will be,” Chen said.

“So the most important thing in the world pandemic is transparency. Each one has to share what they know about it.”

Taiwan is claimed as part of Chinese territory by Beijing, which has excluded it from the United Nations and its subsidiary organizations.

China’s growing influence in the UN has made

officials wary of crossing it, even while the US has withdrawn from or suspended funding for some of its bodies, including WHO, which it accuses of mishandling the outbreak and displaying a pro-China bias.

Chen said he acknowledged that UN member states would have to approve Taiwan taking part at the World Health Assembly, to be held in in Geneva beginning on May 17.

However, he said there were questions as to whether the WHO’s “procedural justice was manipulated.”

Beijing’s Communist leadership has increasingly shut Taiwan out of gatherings such as the World Health Assembly as part of a diplomatic and military drive to force Taiwan’s independence-leaning President Tsai Ing-wen to recognise the self-governing island democracy as a part of China.

Beijing has threatened military force to bring Taiwan under its control and has been courting its handful of remaining diplomatic allies to isolate it internationally.

South Korea eases social distancing amid drop in COVID-19 cases

Seoul, May 6 (IANS): South Korea on Wednesday introduced new relaxed social distancing measures by reopening schools and museums, as new coronavirus cases continued to fall in the country, which has gone three days without registering locally originated infections.

Authorities in South Korea, where forced confinement was not implemented and borders were not closed, ended a social distancing phase activated two and a half months ago to start another one dubbed “distancing in daily life.”

In this new phase citizens are asked to adhere to four guidelines: stay home 3-4 days if one becomes ill, keep people “one arm’s length away” wash their

People wearing protective masks walk in Jongno Ward, South Korea. (EPA Photo) hands regularly and cough into the elbow, and ventilate and clean spaces regularly, Efe news reported.

Starting May 13, the school year will begin (in

stages and until June 1), which was originally scheduled to start March 2 and has had to be taught online and on television since April 9.

No. 9555 Yesterday’s solution No. 9554

No. 4174 Yesterday’s solution No. 4173

No. 3199 Yesterday’s solution No. 3198

Across 4. Seaman (6) 7. Snake (8) 8. Bicycle for two (6) 10. Ordered pile (5) 13. Pieces (4) 14. Atmosphere (4) 15. Relative (4) 16. Hit lightly (3) 17. Loud explosion (4) 19. Primates (4) 21. Clove pink (9) 23. Festive occasion (4) 24. Skeleton part (4) 26. Skill (3) 27. Kick, informally (4) 29. Send by post (4) 32. Public pool (4) 33. Stage whisper (5) 34. Country (6) 35. Brolly (8) 36. Line on a weather map (6) Down 1. Light wood (5) 2. Detection system (5) 3. Cutlery item (4) 4. Glossy fabric (5) 5. Taverns (4) 6. Musical dramas (6) 9. Achieve (6) 11. Towboat (3) 12. Conspiracy (5) 13. Imaginary source of fear (7) 15. Girl’s name (3) 16. Female swan (3) 18. Foreign language (6) 20. Odes (5) 21. Feline (3) 22. Toddler (3) 23. Welcomes (6) 25. Concealed (3) 28. Smell (5) 30. C hurch gangway (5) 31. Lawful (5) 32. Arm, for example (4) 33. Land measure (4)

The Ministry of Education has ensured that 99 percent of schools, where the use of masks will be compulsory, have already completed their contingency

plans, including the supply of masks for students and teachers.

This new phase also involves the progressive reopening of museums (with currently limited spaces and operating hours), public libraries, gyms or nightlife clubs and the restart of professional sports leagues (currently behind closed doors).

“South Korea can return to the intensive social distancing system at any time if the situation worsens,” Jeong Eun-kyeong, director-general of the Korea Centre for Infectious Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC), said on Wednesday at a news conference.

The countr y registered two new infections

Wednesday (both originating abroad), the lowest number since Mar. 18, the day a major outbreak was discovered in the city of Daegu.

With its intensive tracking system, mass testing and widespread hospitalization of victims, South Korea, which at the time was the second country most affected by the virus after reporting more than 900 new infections in a single day, has managed to control the outbreak and its expansion.

In total, the country registered 10,806 infections, of which only 11.2 per cent are active cases (more than 86 per cent of those who became ill have been cured), while the case fatality rate is 2.36 per cent.

Largest number of children displaced in 2019: UNICEF

At the end of 2019, an estimated 46 million people were internally displaced by conflict and violence. More than four in 10, or 19 million, were children.

United Nations, May 6 (IANS): An estimated 19 million children, more than ever before, were living in displacement within their own countries due to conflict and violence in 2019 -- some of them for years, according to a new report of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

At the end of 2019, an estimated 46 million people were internally displaced by conflict and violence.

More than four in 10, or 19 million, were children, says the report “Lost at Home,” which was released on Tuesday, reported Xinhua news agency.

Millions more were displaced by disasters. Forced out of their homes and communities, these children are among the most vulnerable in the world. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic stands to bring even more harm and uncertainty to their lives, according to the report.

“Millions of displaced children around the world are already going without proper care and protection,”

said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore.

“When new crises emerge, like the COVID-19 pandemic, these children are especially vulnerable. It is essential that governments and humanitarian partners work together to keep them safe, healthy, learning and protected.”

Internally displaced children lack access to basic services and are at risk of exposure to violence, exploitation, abuse and trafficking, the report says. They are also at risk of child labour, child marriage and family separation which all pose direct threats to their health and safety.

The COVID-19 pandemic is making a critical situation for displaced children and families even worse. They often live in overcrowded camps or informal settlements, where access to basic hygiene and health services is limited, and where physical distancing is not possible. These conditions are highly conducive to the spread of

diseases like COVID-19, says the report.

There were 12 million new displacements of children in 2019, 3.8 million of them were caused by conflict and violence, and 8.2 million by disasters linked mostly to weatherrelated events like flooding and storms, according to the report.

Raffle Draw Postponed The Dimapur Khensa Senso Telongjem Raffle Draw in aid of Golden Jubilee, which was scheduled to be drawn on May 2, 2020, has been postponed to December 1, 2020 (Tuesday).

The venue and time remains the same.

DP-2268

New York, May 6 (AP): Take the New York metropolitan area’s progress against the coronavirus out of the equation and the numbers show the rest of the US is moving in the wrong direction, with the known infection rate rising even as states move to lift their lockdowns, an Associated Press analysis found Tuesday.

New confirmed infections per day in the U.S. exceed 20,000, and deaths per day are well over 1,000, according to figures from Johns Hopkins University.

And public health officials warn that the failure to flatten the curve and drive down the infection rate in places could lead to many more deaths — perhaps tens of thousands — as people are allowed to venture out and businesses reopen.

“Make no mistakes: This virus is still circulating in our community, perhaps even more now than in previous weeks” said Linda Ochs, director of the Health Department in Shawnee County, Kansas.

Elsewhere around the world, Britain’s official coronavirus death toll, at more than 29,000, topped that of

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Sd/Convenor Raffle Draw Committee

STOLEN BIKE

Regd No. : NL 07 EA 0926 Engine No. : JC73ET2107766 Chassis No. : ME4JC738FJT044661 Belonging to Sabnam Singh was stolen on 02.05.2020 from Duncan Bosti, Dimapur.

Contact : 9774194093 DP-2262

northeast

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Mizoram set to become Covid-19 free Aizawl/Shillong, May 6 (IANS): Mizoram became the fifth Covid-19 free state among the eight northeastern states as three consecutive samples of its lone coronavirus patient tested negative, top officials said on Wednesday.

There has been no coronavirus case in Sikkim and Nagaland. Three Covid-19 patients -- one in Arunachal Pradesh and two in Manipur -- recovered last month, making these two states coronavirus free.

After Tripura was declared coronavirus free on April 25, 40 Covid-19 cases -- all Border Security Force (BSF) troopers, wife of a jawan and their two children, and a mess worker -- have been reported in the state since Saturday. They are being treated in different hospitals.

So far 331 people, including 90 doctors and health workers and 241 BSF jawans, have been identified to have come in contact -- di-

R. Lalthangliana

rectly or indirectly -- with infected BSF troopers. “Their swab samples are being tested in a phased manner,” Education and Law Minister Ratan Lal Nath said.

Similarly, swab samples of the last and 11th Covid-19 patient in Meghalaya capital Shillong, tested positive after testing negative in earlier two tests.

Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the fourth test would be done after three days as per the standard protocol.

Mizoram Health Ser-

vices Director H. Lalchungnunga said the three successive tests of the state’s lone patient came out negative. “The middle-aged man, undergoing treatment at the Zoram Medical College and Hospital, is expected to be discharged this weekend,” Lalchungnunga told IANS over phone.

Mizoram Health and Family Welfare Minister R. Lalthangliana said the state could be declared Covid-19 free. The 50-year-old Christian pastor from Mizoram had tested positive for coro-

navirus on March 24 on his return to Aizawl from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, via Delhi and Guwahati on March 16.

Swab samples of his wife and two children tested negative and they are staying at home.

Health officials in Aizawl said four people, including two women, from Mizoram tested Covid-19 positive in Maharashtra in the third week of April. All the four, three of them cancer patients, along with their relatives were staying at Mizoram House in Mumbai.

A doctor from Mizoram, who worked at a Meghalaya hospital, also tested coronavirus positive in Shillong on April 14.

Of the 12 coronavirus cases in Meghalaya, a veteran doctor died, ten recovered and one is undergoing treatment.

Assam, at present, has 11 active Covid-19 cases.

While 32 patients recovered, one died in the state.

7

Bangladeshi woman, two kids held in Tripura

Total 40 COVID-19 cases in Tripura; most patients BSF jawans

Agartala, May 6 (IANS): A 35-year-old Bangladeshi woman and her two children have been arrested for entering India illegally, Tripura police said on Wednesday.

A police official said the woman and her fouryear-old son and 14-year-old daughter entered Tripura from neighbouring Sylhet district (eastern Bangladesh) much before the lockdown began in India.

“Acting on a tip-off, we arrested them from a relative’s house at Gandhigram (in western Tripura). Following health protocols and other legal formalities, we are taking necessary steps,” the official said.

The Indian government in mid-March closed the 4,096-km long IndiaBangladesh borders. The Border Security Force troopers are maintaining a strict vigil along the frontiers, vast areas of which remain unfenced.

Agartala, May 5 (PTI): With thirteen more Border Security Force (BSF) jawans testing positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday, the total number of active cases rose to 40 in Tripura, the state government said.

All the active patients are either BSF jawans or their children.

Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb wrote in his official Twitter handle, “Alert!

13 persons from 138thBn #BSF Ambassa found #COVID19 POSITIVE today including 1 Mess worker. Total #COVID19 positive cases in Tripura stands at 42 (2 already discharged, so active cases : 40) There is no POSITIVE case among civilians. Don’t Panic! #TripuraCOVID19Count”.

He also wrote on his Facebook page that the state government is doing maximum number of COVID-19 tests to ensure further safety of everyone. “We are con-

Biplab Kumar Deb

ducting maximum number #COVID19 tests to ensure further safety of everyone.

Our Govt is keeping close vigil on the current situations. Specialised Doctors are taking care of the Positive patients. I urge everyone not to Panic and Co-operate with Government. Don’t believe in rumours, Govt will take strict action if anyone found spreading any misinformation,” Deb wrote.

The fresh coronavirus cases were confirmed on the fourth consecutive day from a single location -- 138th bat-

talion of BSF at Ambassa in Dhalai district, 90 km from here -- where a Head Constable and a Constable were found to be affected by the virus on May 2. Twelve more jawans were tested positive with the virus on the next day and 13 other tested positive on Monday.

State nodal officer for COVID-19 Dr Deep Kumar Debbarma told reporters that the BSF battalion headquarters is being converted into a COVID-19 care centre and everyone is being tested.

Ten arrested for killing Himalayan Manipur re-imposes stricter COVID-19 lockdown restrictions black bear in Meghalaya Correspondent

IMPHAL, MAY 6: Man i p u r g ove r n m e n t o n Wednesday re-imposed most of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions which were earlier relaxed after all districts of the state were categorized as green zone.

The decision to reimpose the restrictions relaxed since May 4 after the third phase of COVID-19 lockdown was taken in a cabinet meeting convened by chief minister N Biren Singh today.

The cabinet had decided to re-impose the restrictions prior to May 4 after reviewing scenarios in the state as it eased most lockdown

Shillong, May 6: Ten villagers have been arrested for killing a Himalayan black bear from a remote village in Meghalaya on Wednesday, a wildlife official said on Wednesday.

Divisional Forest Officer Anu P. James said a team of foresters swung into action following pictures that went viral on the social media showing three men proudly displaying the black bear they killed in a jungle.

Based on inputs, she said a team of foresters cordoned off Mawpyrthuh village under Pynursla and arrested the ten villagers who were involved in slaughtering the Himalayan black bear.

“Now, we are interrogating the arrested persons to get the clarity in the entire incident,” James said refusing to divulge further details.

On the other hand, senior wildlife officials, said

The video that led to outrage on social media

that the villagers had laid a trap to kill the bear which they claimed that “it (bear) had destroyed their bee hives” in the forest.

“The investigating team have been to the site, where the Himalayan black bear was killed today and recovered parts of the body

of the bear,” the senior IFS official said on condition of anonymity.

Forest and Environment Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said that those involved in killing the bear will be booked under Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972.

One arrested for spreading fake news Imphal, May 6 (PTI): One person was arrested in Manipur on Wednesday allegedly for spreading fake news about COVID19 on social media, police said.The accused, in a Facebook post, claimed that a COVID19 case was reported in Khwairamband Keithel area in the heart of the city, leading to panic among the people, a police officer said. Many people closed their shops in the

area and customers rushed to their homes after the news spread, he said. “One person was arrested for spreading fake news that created panic among the people,” Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) L Kailun told PTI. A case has been registered against the accused with Imphal police station, the ADGP added.

and wearing face masks at public places, after easing relaxations, has compelled the state government to re-impose the restrictions, he said. The chief minister reminded that the state government eased most of the lockdown relaxations after the state was categorised as green zone.

Among others, the government has decided to close all market places in the capital city and other towns across the state which were allowed to open from 6 am till 4pm everyday since May 4 last, he said.

However, there will be relaxation in opening of grocery shops, vending of vegetables, fruits, poultry

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

meat and fish outside the market complexes, the chief minister added.

There will be no change in the public curfew relaxation hours during the day time. The state government had relaxed the curfew from 6 am till 6pm every day since March 4.

A cabinet meeting convened today discussed the latest development in the COVID-19 containment measures in the state after State Level COVID-19 Consultative Committee reviewed the same earlier on Tuesday, he added.

The chief minister added that as decided by the cabinet, the state government will now bear the

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Romans 8:38-39 “For I am convinced that neither death nor life... nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord”.

The family of Late Temsumenla Jamir wishes to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and kindness shown to us during our bereavement. To all who helped in any way, your contributions made our loss more bearable.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. May the peace of God be with you, His love never ends.

Born on 01/08/1971 – Died on 12/04/2020 We, the bereaved family members of Late MHONCHUMO LOTHA would like to convey our heartfelt gratitude to all who came and supported us physically, financially, morally and through prayer during his illness till his last breath.

Loving wife, children and family members DP-2260

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

STATE

Various orgs condemn rape incident

K Y M C

Bhattacharje stated that this was the extreme act of barbarism in civil society and has urged concerned authority to investigate the heinous act in a fast track court in order to dispense

justice to the victim. Minority wing also extended sincere gratitude to all the people and organisations including women council, who had stood by the victim.

IN MEMORIAM

DORIS SATHUNGLO KIKON If we could wish for anything in exchange for your life, we would have bargained for anything to be blessed with some precious moments with you, but God had better plans for you in the safe arms of Jesus.

We thank God for gifting us with a God-fearing, most loving and caring daughter and sister.

Life without you will never be the same again but we will fill the void created by your absence with the memories of your traits and emulate them till we meet again in His glory.

Loving father, mother, sister, brothers and loved ones.

DP-2265(B)

Born : 30.09.1985 – Died : 01.05.2020

-Loving Husband, Family and Dear Ones.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Late Shikhuli L Shohe 1.7.1937 – 20.4.2020

We, the bereaved family of Late Shikhuli L Shohe, wish to acknowledge the countless compassion and encouragement shown to our family during this difficult time. We extend our sincere gratitude to each individual, churches, friends, relatives and family who supported us spiritually, physically, emotionally and also materially during her prolonged illness and painful demise.

We express our appreciation to: 1. Er. Picto Shohe MLA 2. Er. Imsankaba E.E (Power Dept) Dimapur 3. L. Hukheto Yepthomi G.B Lhomithi Colony 4. Lhomithi Ghami Baptist Akukuhou 5. Lhomithi Ghami Baptist Akukuhou (Women Dept) 6. Eralibill Sumi Baptist Akukuhou 7. Eralibill Sumi Baptist Akukuhou (Women Dept) 8. Sumi Baptist Akukuhou, Chumukedima 9. Khrimtomi Welfare, Dimapur 10. Philimi Village 11. Rotomi Village 12. Akuhaito Town 13. Khrimtomi Baptist Akukuhou 14. Relatives, Friends and all Well Wishers Though we are unable to mention every individual for their deeds of kindness, it is our humble and sincere prayer that our Almighty God bless you all unconditionally and favors His Grace upon your life and family.

DP-2261

DIMAPUR: Netaji Railway Colony council, GBs and women union and NPF minority wing, central have condemned the rape of a woman allegedly by Ashish Ghosh and Samuel Yep on April 28, 2020 at the colony.

In a condemnation note, GB Netaji Railway NST Colony and chairperson of women union Netaji Railway NST Colony have urged the concerned authority to award maximum punishments to the accused. It has also asked the Bar association not to release them on bail.

In order to dispense justice to the victim and her family, the colony authorities have also asked the Judiciary to take the case in a fast track court.

Meanwhile, the colony authorities have informed that both the accused have been expelled from the colony and that action would be taken against those who entertain them.

NPF minority wing central: NPF minority wing, central in a condemnation by president Bishnu

travel fare of stranded state people at in different parts of the country on their return to the state by train upto Guwahati.

However, government will not bear the fare of people stranded at various places in the northeast states. The government will also pay Rs 200 per head for one day meal per person during community quarantine period, Singh said.

The decision of the state government came barely a day after opposition Congress remark insisted the state government to put in place a clear-cut policy on transportation of the people from stranded at various places.

DP-2267

Correspondent

restrictions and in consideration of the COVID-19 situation in other states, chief minister N Biren Singh said in a video clip dispatched to the media houses after the cabinet meeting on May 6.

In the video, Singh mentioned the case of mass COVID-19 infection of 380 people at a crowded market place in Chennai, 140 personnel of a CRPF battalion in Delhi, the scenarios of the pandemic in neighbouring state like Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya.

These scenarios coupled with the situation, particularly in Imphal city which witnessed rampant violation of lockdown protocols like social distancing

From loving Husband, Children, Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, In-laws & Relatives

We, the family members of Late DORIS SATHUNGLO KIKON, W/o Limachan Kikon would like to convey our sincere gratitude to all who stood by and supported us financially, materially and through unceasing prayers, during the prolonged illness and hospitalisation and till her demise on 2nd May 2020 at CIHSR Dimapur.

We regret our inability to express our gratitude to every individual and organisation and pray to the Almighty to bless each of you abundantly.

Loving husband, son, daughter and family members

DP-2265(A)

DORIS SATHUNGLO KIKON K Y M C

8

sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2020

Korea to begin football behind closed doors on Friday FIFA to probe Fernandes S.Goal celebrations, handshakes and talking not allowed transfer to Man United I N C H E O N, M AY 6 ( AG E N C I E S ) : S o u t h Korea’s football season kicks off on Friday after a two-month coronavirus delay, leading the way for the global game as other leagues strive to return to action.

Goal celebrations, handshakes and even talking are out under stringent new safety guidelines designed to prevent any contagion during games, which will be played behind closed doors.

While countries such as Belarus, Turkmenistan and Taiwan defied the virus to keep playing football, South Korea -- the 2002 World Cup co-hosts and semi-finalists -- are the first prominent nation in the sport to allow matches.

South Korea endured one of the worst early outbreaks of COVID-19 outside China, prompting professional sports to suspend or delay their seasons, a pattern that was repeated worldwide.

But the country appears to have flattened the curve thanks to an extensive “trace, test and treat” programme, and football’s

return comes after baseball started without fans on Tuesday.

The K-League is Asia’s first major competition to return to action, while Europe’s giants remain sidelined with only Germany’s Bundesliga so far making concrete plans to resume.

Friday’s opening game will be between defending champion Jeonbuk Motors -- the team is managed by Jose Mourinho’s former assistant Jose Morais -- and Suwon Bluewings.

It will be football with a difference from Friday, with strict health checks and hygiene measures enforced on the field.

Players and coaching staff are subject to temperature checks ahead of each game and if anyone gets infected during the season, the affected team and those who played against them will have to take a twoweek break.

Instead of the traditional pre-game handshakes, players have been asked to bow their heads from a distance, while also avoiding celebrating goals with teammates -- and talking.

Curry to feature in Jr. NBA leadership conference

MCC to extend chairman’s term amid coronavirus

Bruno Fernandes

MANCHESTER, MAY 6 (IANS): FIFA, world’s governing body for football, has launched an investigation after Italian side Sampdoria filed a complaint over the transfer of Bruno Fernandes to Manchester United from Sporting Lisbon. United roped in the Portuguese playmaker Fernandes for £47million in January.

But Serie A club Sampdoria have claimed that they are due a part of that fee, having negotiated a 10 per cent sell-on clause when selling Fernandes to Sporting in June 2017 for €8.5 million, as per a report in Manchester Evening News.

Going by that, Sporting were to pay Sampdoria around £4million after January’s deal that took Fernandes to English giants United. Since the amount has not been paid yet, the Italian club reached out to FIFA who will now look into the matter between Sampdoria and Sporting.

“We can confirm that on April 3, 2020 the Italian club, UC Sampdoria, lodged a claim with FIFA against the Portuguese club, Sporting Clube de Portugal, related to financial obligations set out in the contract corresponding to the transfer of the Portuguese player, Bruno Miguel Borges Fernandes,” a FIFA

spokesperson was quoted as saying by manchestereveningnews.co.uk.

Since joining United in January, Fernandes has impressed at Old Trafford before the Premier League had to be stopped due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Fernandes has recently revealed that Andres Iniesta has had a huge influence on his playing style and admitted his best attributes can still improve when compared to the Spanish star.

“The one I liked to watch and follow was Iniesta, because Iniesta is a mix between an eight and a 10,” Bruno told Manchester United’s official website in a Q&A session on manutd.com.

“It is a way I can do better, between eight and 10.

“It is the guy who always likes to have the ball, who always likes to take the risks, and I think Iniesta was one of the best in the world. For me, it was impressive how Iniesta finished his career without the Ballon d’Or (award).

With everything he won, it is difficult for me to understand!”

The K-League’s stepby-step response manual to the virus outbreak has been shared with some 40 professional football competitions worldwide including England’s Premier League and Germany’s Bundesliga, the K-League said.

But questions have been raised about the new safety guidelines.

“It’s impossible not to talk to your teammates,” Incheon United captain Kim Do-hyeok told reporters.

“If we can’t have conversations on the field, we may as well not play football at all.”

The new K-League season will be an oasis of live action in a world

L O N D O N, M AY 6 (AGENCIES): For mer Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara will be offered a one-year extension as president of the Marylebone Cricket Club in the “extraordinary circumstances” resulting from the COVID19 pandemic, the MCC said on Wednesday.

Sangakkara became the first non-British president of the MCC, the custodian of cricket’s laws, when he took over in October last year.

The disruption caused by the outbreak prompted the MCC committee to offer the 42-year-old to continue until Sept 30, 2021, a motion likely to be approved in its June 24 annual general meeting. “Whilst Presidents of MCC only normally serve for a twelve-month period, it is not unprecedented for longer terms to be introduced to respond to extraordinary circumstances,” MCC said in a statement, citing the stints of Lord Hawke (1914-18) and Stanley Christopherson (1939-45).

England’s Morgan goes to Safety of fans more important bat for T10 format at Olympics than football, feels Stones

Bayern agree to sign City’s Sane on 5-year deal

Stephen Curry

together members of the youth basketball community – including coaches, program administrators, partners, players and parents.

Fans from around the world will also join for discussions with the game’s leaders and public health experts on topics related to the current state of youth

Eoin Morgan

L O N D O N , M AY 6 (AGENCIES): England’s World Cup winning captain Eoin Morgan says cricket’s 10-overs format would be ideal for a global multi-sport event such as the Olympics as the entire tournament could be squeezed into 10 days.

Cricket featured at the 1900 Olympics and was played in the 1998 Commonwealth Games but has largely been absent from multi-sport events, which some say has restricted its growth beyond the traditional pockets.

The 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birming-

ham will feature a women’s Twenty20 competition but Morgan says the T10 format would be a better fit than T20, 50 overs or test cricket.

“The one thing that T10 offers above the three formats that makes it so appealing to an Olympic Games or a Commonwealth Games is the fact that you can play a whole tournament in the space of 10 days,” he said in a video conference.

“To have a tournament in such a short space of time maximises the opportunity and the exposure that it will have for the

sports. This year’s lineup will feature opening remarks by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, followed by a series of conversations, audience Q&As and panel discussions, including a one-onone conversation between Curry and Burke.

In addition, a coaches round table will discuss the

sport.

“When you can play a cricket tournament in eight-10 days it really does make it appealing, and on top of that it really would be extremely entertaining,” said the 33-year-old, who captains Delhi Bulls in the Abu Dhabi T10 league.

Twenty20 has emerged as cricket’s most popular format, having spawned several franchisebased leagues around the world including the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL).

But Morgan, who plays for the IPL’s Kolkata franchise, said T10 has its own merits.

“The most important part of a T20 game is always overs 10 to 20,” said Morgan, who also captains Delhi Bulls in the Abu Dhabi T10 competition.

“But if you look at a T10 game, the earlier overs are the most important.

You need to make the most of that very short powerplay, so who you put in those key positions and in the form that they’re in, is the most critical factor.”

state of the game and ways to support young athletes during this time.

The event will conclude with a 15-minute virtual, live basketball clinic demonstrating drills and exercises that boys and girls can complete at home and in limited space to stay active and develop their game in a safe and healthy way.

John Stones

MANCHESTER, MAY 6 (IANS): Manchester City defender John Stones wants to get back on the football ground but has urged the authorities to resume matches in the country only ‘at the right time’.

Premier League football has been suspended since March in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and Stones feels safety of fans and players is more important than the game itself.

“We all want football back, me more than anyone, but I want it to be at the right time and I want it to be safe for everyone,”

Stones told CityTV as per Daily Mail.

“For me as a player, you want to be playing in stadiums full of fans and the fans want to come to the game.

“If they can’t get to it, they’ll watch it on TV, but that’s the love and passion everyone knows and loves,” he added.

France, Belgium and Netherlands have already called off their respective league looking at the virus threat but football associations in England, Spain, Germany and Italy are trying their best to complete the season.

added in a statement.

On the ground, the K-League said spectators will be allowed back into stadiums progressively as the government eases its quarantining measures.

The new football season comes just two days after the return of professional baseball in South Korea, which has struck a television deal with ESPN for US fans.

And South Korea will next week become the first country to see women’s professional golf resume after COVID-19.

South Korean players dominate women’s golf with eight featuring in the world’s top 20, including number one Ko Jin-young.

Aus Open at risk due to COVID-19: Tiley M U M B A I , M AY 6 (AGENCIES): Next year’s Australian Open could be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and even if the first Grand Slam of 2021 goes ahead fans from abroad will not be able to attend, Tennis Australia chief Craig Tiley said on Wednesday.

The tennis season was halted in early March due to the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 3.68 million people around the world while killing over 256,000, according to a Reuters tally.

The Australian Open was able to take place in January as scheduled but French Open organisers have moved the clay-court major back to September from its May start while Wimbledon has been cancelled.

The fate of the U.S. Open in New York is expected to be decided next month.

Tennis Australia Chief Executive Tiley said next year’s Australian Open (AO) would not escape the

NEW YORK, MAY 6 (IANS): The National Basketball Association (NBA) on Wednesday announced that the fourth annual Jr. NBA leadership conference will feature three-time NBA champion Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors among other speakers.

Dallas Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle, former US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, University of South Carolina women’s head coach and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Dawn Staley and LA Clippers head coach Doc Rivers will also be there.

The conference will take place virtually for the first time on May 15.

It will be livestreamed on the NBA App, NBA. com and Jr. NBA.com and across the NBA and Jr. NBA’s Facebook, Twitter and YouTube accounts.

Shifting from an inperson forum to a free virtual event in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the conference will bring

where sports fans have been starved of such content by the virus, with broadcasters resorting to repeats of matches from past years.

The lack of live sport has resulted in a new-found global interest in South Korean football.

Ten foreign broadcasters from China, Hong Kong to Croatia have purchased rights to air the upcoming season, while those in Germany, France, Italy, US and Australia have also made inquiries, the K-League said.

The K-League will livestream Friday’s match on YouTube and Twitter with English-language graphics and commentary for international fans, it

MANCHESTER, MAY 6 (IANS): Manchester City forward Leroy Sane could be headed to Bayern Munich with the two clubs agreeing for a move and negotiating a suitable transfer fee. According to German newspaper Sport Bild, Bayern have made an initial bid of 40 million Euros for a five-year deal for the German winger.

While the amount is half of the 24-year-old’s market value, Sane has not played for City since last August due to a right knee ligament injury.

Moreover, prices of players in general are projected to fall considerably due to the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Manchester United chief executive Ed Woodward had said earlier that that any big money moves for the club in this summer transfer window is ruled out due to the financial implications of the pandemic. “Nobody should be under any illusions about the scale of the challenge facing everyone in football and it may not be ‘business as usual’ for any clubs, including ourselves, in the transfer market this summer,” he had said.

Craig Tiley

impact of the pandemic.

“Worst-case scenario is no AO,” he told the Australian Associated Press.

“Our best-case scenario at this point is having an AO with players that we can get in here with quarantining techniques and Australianonly fans.”

Australia has had less than 7,000 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus.

Fewer than 1,000 people are still sick, though 96 people have died from the virus.

The country is expected to announce on Friday a loosening of social distancing restrictions with curbs on most businesses removed

by July.

The men’s ATP Tour and the WTA, which runs

the women’s circuit, have suspended all tournaments at least until mid-July after countries started locking down borders to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Some players, both current and past, have said they fear the remainder of the 2020 season could be wiped out. Tiley has previously said he expected tennis to lose the remainder of the season to the pandemic.

“There’s four scenarios and we’ve modelled everything,” he said on Wednesday. “We’ve modelled the times we have to make decisions, dates we have to make decisions, who it impacts, how it’s going to impact them.

“We’ve done that for 670 staff. We’ve done that for all of our partners — our media partners, our sponsors and for all the governments and places we rent facilities.

“And now we’re working on the international playing group and getting them to understand what each of those scenarios are and what it means for them and how we can action it.”

Spanish club apologises after Djokovic training day mix-up

Novak Djokovic

MARBELLA, MAY 6 (IANS): Puente Romano tennis club in Marbella issued a clarification after Novak Djokovic shared a video practising at their court on Tuesday. In the wake of coronavirus pandemic, Spanish tennis federation had asked players to refrain from training on courts till May 11 in order to follow social distancing norms of the government.

“We understood that professional athletes were able to train and authorised Djokovic to use our facilities. After speaking with the tennis federation they made it clear to us he had to wait until 11 May to use the tennis club,” Puente Romano club said in a statement.

“We shared this clarification with Djokovic and both parties have agreed to restart training from that day. We regret that our misinterpretation of the rules may have inconvenienced Djokovic in good faith.”

Djokovic had earlier shared a video of himself practising on a clay court and his social media post read: “So happy to play on clay ... well, just for a bit with my phone in the hands. I don’t recommend this to any 18-year-old.”

The entire sporting calendar of the world is reeling due to Covid-19 pandemic and tennis is not different. The season has been put on hold with multiple tournaments being postponed or cancelled.

Printed, Published and Edited by Geoffrey Yaden at G.M. Printers, Circular Rd. Dimapur-797112. Ph: Desk 248489, Fax: 225366, e-mail-npdesk@gmail.com. Adm.& Advertisement  :248267 Fax: 248500 e-mail-npostadvt@gmail.com Kohima: 2290567, R.N. 40978/90 RN/NE 707 K Y M C

K Y M C