November 16, 2020

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXX No.342

DIMAPUR, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020 Pages 8 ` 4.00

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Economic blockade on Nagaland from Nov 17 Correspondent/Agencies

DIPHU, NOV 15 (NPN): Various Karbi Anglong based civil society organizations led by Karbi Students’ Association (KSA) on Sunday decided to call for an indefinite economic blockade on Nagaland starting from November 17 in protest against alleged illegal encroachment by people from neighbouring Nagaland.

Movement of all trucks/vehicles carrying essential items will be prohibited.

On Thursday, Karbi Students’ Association, United Karbi Anglong Women Association, Karbi Anglong Women Justice Forum, Students and Youth Council and Hills Progressive Youth Association among others alleged that encroachment inside Daldali reserved forest had been taking place under the patronage of Nagaland government.

In this regard, the organizations had demanded for a tripartite talk between governments of Assam, Nagaland and Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council to deliberate and resolve the border issue.

Addressing a press meet

A group of Assam offiOn Wednesday, assiscials led by deputy commis- tant conservator of forest, sioner (DC) Karbi Anglong, Karbi Anglong, Prahalad Superintendent of Police, Kro along with sub-divisionChief Conservator of For- al police officer Bokajan, est and others visited the John Das, during the border disputed area of the border survey/inspection, observed on Saturday. DC Karbi Ang- substantial destruction of long requested his Dimapur forest areas inside Karbi counterpart for an official Anglong. The officials also meeting to sort out the issue took note that most of the at official level. inhabitants were allegedly Karbi Anglong forest issued land pattas by Naofficials have also raised galand government. concern over continuous enJohn Das stated that Dillai check gate, one of the main entry point to Dimapur. (NP) croachment by people from the whole issue needed to here on Thursday, Simeon the Assam government had Nagaland by removing pil- be discussed between AsRongphar-led KSA had also failed to protect its own lars demarcating the border sam and Nagaland governments. warned of imposing a ‘four- land. The organizations also between the two States. hour’ economic blockade on put forth several demands November 20 if the Assam that include eviction of all and Nagaland governments illegal occupants/encroachIn another border-related issue, the All Assam including KAAC failed to ment inside Daldali reserved Students’ Union (AASU) Jorhat unit on Sunday also convene a meeting to discuss forest, disconnecting power threatened to launch an economic blockade against about the border problem. supply allegedly being proHowever, after a joint vided to some occupants by Nagaland to protest against encroachment inside Dissoi meeting of the Bijoy Bey-led Nagaland government inside valley reserve forest under Mariani.

According to reports, a delegation of AASU Jorhat KSA, Rongphar-led KSA Karbi Anglong, removal of and other organizations held Nagaland police personnel unit visited the area on Sunday. They warned of imposhere on Sunday, the house de- near border pillars no. 1 & ing an economic blockade if such encroachments were not stopped. cided to call for an indefinite 2 etc.

Jorhat district officials claimed that Assam police blockade against Nagaland They also alleged that had erected a temporary camp in the area on November from November 17. encroachment activities by They said that the people from neighbouring 11 soon after Nagaland police personnel erected a shed blockade has been called state had increased since Oc- and refused to move from their position. Efforts were on to protest against unabated tober last. They also alleged to pursue the Nagaland authorities to vacate the area and illegal encroachment in- that encroachers frequently dismantle the structure, Assam officials said.

The Nagaland government however, denied “illegal side Karbi Anglong. They entered the district’s Daldali said that the Karbi Anglong Reserve Forest to cut down occupation” of land in Assam, claiming that its police personnel were keeping vigil within the State’s periphery.

Autonomous Council and trees.

AASU threatens economic blockade

Slovakia beat Scotland 1-0 in nations league sports, Page 8

NVCO asks govt to rollback tax on fuel D I M A P U R , N OV 1 5 (NPN): Nagaland Voluntary Consumers’ Organisation (NVCO) has asked the State government to rollback the new tax it had imposed on fuel and motor spirits.

Pointing out that common people were still suffering with skyrocketing of prices due to COVID-19 cess imposed on fuel imposed earlier by the government but subsequently rolled back, the organisation in a statement said the citizens were aware of the State government’s rising deficit due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Alleging that the State government do not have an effective mechanism for price regulation and its agencies are poorly performing in price regulation, NVCO observed that therefore the new tax on petroleum products might not be the right way for the government to create revenue ignoring public interest.

The consumers’ body pointed out that the government could always save its budget by removing “nongovernment employees enjoying government’s monthly salary” with cabinet rank, PROs, PS, media officers, commissioner & secretaries/ joint/deputy secretaries at-

Says, govt can save budget by removing non-govt employees tached to politicians and top officers, non-legislators holding the posts of advisors, party workers and defeated politicians holding posts of chairmen with minister’s status, etc. It suggested that another way could be “clean election” where political parties spending crores of rupees during election campaigns avoid the same to the extent that they stop deducting commission from developmental project in the name of “party fund”, etc.

Meanwhile, NVCO has appealed to the State government to implement Nagaland Street Vendors’ (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Scheme and Rules 2019.

Observing the International Street Vendors’ Day at the State Capital on Saturday by holding an interaction with street vendors, organisation’s president Kezhokhoto Savi remarked that the street vendors were rarely treated with the same measures of dignity and

tolerance. He alleged that they are targeted by municipalities and police in urban areas as illegal traders.

However, as per the Act, Savi asserted that the street vendors are entitled for a proper site or area on relocation, maintenance of cleanliness and public hygiene, maintenance of civic amenities in vending zone in good condition, etc.

The interaction was organised for the vendors coming and bringing organic vegetables and other items from Peren district (Jalukie), villages from Tseminyu, etc, and selling these at Wednesday market, Chandmari, Kohima and other places.

During the interaction, NVCO said it learned from the street vendors that they were compelled to sell their products at a higher price due to higher transportation charges following the hike on fuel prices. According to Savi, it was not just the street vendors, but the new tax on fuel has caused much burden to common people, including daily-wage earners, private sector employees, local entrepreneurs, small-scale business, etc, as prices of essential and non-essential items have shot up due to hike in prices of fuel.

Police nab 13 for violating firecracker ban

Nagaland COVID tally 9885 COVID-19: State Sectt office complex Delhi Fire dept gets strange

D I M A P U R , N OV 1 5 (NPN): Dimapur police arrested 13 persons on November 14 for defying the total ban on bursting/sale of firecrackers.

According to police, the defaulters were caught from areas like Marwari Patti, Burma camp, Railway station and other locations in Dimapur.

The defaulters were warned and later released after signing an undertaking, police said.

Till November 15 evening, sounds of firecrackers were heard across Dimapur.

It may be recalled that the state government has prohibited sale and use of fire crackers in all parts of the State from November 10, 2020 till January 31, 2021.

The notification issued by chief secretary J Alam ordered complete ban on sale and use of fire crackers in the state and any person found violating the order would be punished under relevant provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other relevant laws. The chief secretary had also directed Commissioner of Police Dimapur and all district SPs to take necessary action to ensure compliance of the order.

District

ACTIVE CASES Symptomatic AsDeath MiympRecovunder Total Critical-ICU Death grattomered InvestiCases Mod- Se- With- With On ed atic Mild erate vere out gation Oxy- VentiOxygen gen lator

Dimapur

509

17

7

7

0

0

0

4876

33*

4

61

Kiphire

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

23

0

0

0

24

Kohima

238

3

7

5

3

0

2

2660

14

0

14

2945

Longleng

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

9

0

0

9

18

Mokokchung

6

0

0

1

0

0

0

109

1

0

3

120

Mon

85

2

0

0

0

0

0

476

2

0

9

574

Peren

8

0

0

0

0

0

0

306

0

0

0

314

This is it!

“Joe Biden has beaten Trump not only with votes but also age.”

K Y M C

COVID-19 STATUS AS ON november 15, 2020

5514

Phek

3

0

0

0

0

0

0

37

0

0

0

40

Tuensang

12

0

0

0

0

0

0

155

1

0

0

168

Wokha

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

28

1

0

0

29

Zunheboto

1

0

0

0

0

0

0

135

0

0

3

139

Total

862

22

14

13

3

0

2

8814

52

4

99

9885

*6 deaths not due to Covid-19 *4 deaths in under investigation

D I M A P U R , N OV 1 5 (NPN): Nagaland on Sunday reported 135 COVID-19 positive cases from across the state-- Kohima- 71, Dimapur- 53, Tuensang- 9 and 1 reach in Kiphire and Mon, taking the tally to 9885.

Further, out of 9885 positive cases, the distribution across various categories include 4128 cases from the

armed forces/police, 1731 returnees, 3554 traced contacts and 472 frontline workers.

India’s tally over 88 lakh

PTI: India’s COVID19 caseload has gone past the 88-lakh mark (88,14,579) with 41,100 of those reported in a day, while the death toll climbed to 1,29,635 with 447 new fatalities.

sealed for 48 hrs; 2 deaths in Dimapur ‘oil rain’ calls from citizens

D I M A P U R , N OV 1 5 (NPN): Following the detection of several COVID-19 positive cases, the Nagaland Civil Secretariat office complex, Kohima has been declared as ‘sealed area’ for a period of 48 hours with effect from November 16 till November 17.

In a notification, ADC Kohima Lithrongla Tongpi Rutsa stated that sealing has been done as per the guidelines on preventive measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 in workplace settings issued by the Health ministry.

Fumigation of the premises will be carried out and aggressive contact tracing will be initiated following all health safety measures and SOPs of the government, ADC said.

The sealed area has been mapped and cordoned off and the public and all

concerned have been advised to follow all safety precautions, maintain social/ physical distance to ensure public hygiene and personal safety within the proximity of the sealed area.

2 deaths in Dimapur

Dimapur district has reported two more COVID19 fatalities. Health officials informed that two deaths were reported in Dimapur, taking the state’s death toll to 56.

As per Health department’s data Sunday, out of 56 deaths, 6 were not COVID related while 4 deaths were under investigation.

Though the Health & Family Welfare department has not admitted that community transmission has also taken place in Nagaland, COVID-19 cases continue to show a spike

in cases and inability of contact tracing. The spikes are mainly in Dimapur and Kohima where markets as well as offices are functioning near-normal.

Despite strict safety protocols in place, the Nagaland Secretariat has been sealed due to recent confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Even as the state government is vainly trying to resume normal functioning, reports of spike in COVID19 cases among government employees including some ministers has been reported.

The recent by-polls may have exposed thousands of people to COVID-19 during electioneering campaigns but it has not left even the State Election department unaffected. According to reports over 60 staff and employees under the Election department have reportedly tested positive for COVID-19.

People walk in the rain near India Gate, Sunday. (PTI)

NEW DELHI, NOV 15 (IANS): Just as the drizzle started in the city on Sunday evening, the Delhi Fire Department started receiving multiple calls reporting “oil rain” from all over the city and were investigating, amid some roads being closed after bikers slipped.

“We are receiving calls from all parts of Delhi about oil rain and so far, we have responded to more than 40 calls,” a Fire department officer said. Another official said that these calls were reported from all directions, and began after the drizzle

started at around 5 p.m.

Police had to close one of the roads leading to Jamia Nagar in South Delhi after some bikers slipped on the road. A senior police officer said that a call of oil spill was received after which the Fire Department was informed. “Many bikers slipped and fell on the road because of the slippery oillike material spilled on the road. As a precautionary measure, the Fire Brigade was called and the road was washed,” one of the callers told IANS. Further investigation is underway.

Selection panel defends induction of new NCD team MGDVA meet over pending land compensation D I M A P U R , N OV 1 5 (NPN): Search/Selection Committee formed by the outgoing NCD office bearers, have defended the installation of the new NCD team, that has become controversial as those opposed, claimed that the NCD constitution was flouted.

However, the search/ selection committee in a rejoinder issued by its chairman T.L.Merry, membersecretary Munthin Newmai, members- K.V. John, Joyous Shingnaisui and ex-officio member and president NCD, maintained that the process on formation of new office bearers, search/ selection commission was carried out as per the constitution Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) and that their actions cannot be termed as arbitrary, ultra-vires or illegal.

Emphasising that installation of a strong ex-

ecutive or team of office bearers was of paramount importance under the prevailing situation vis-à-vis COVID-19 pandemic, the search/selection commission claimed that the background of councillors with special focus on his/her eligibility in accordance with the needed criteria as clearly enshrined in the NCD’s constitution had been strictly and transparently adhered to.

They said the general body of NCD and office bearers are either nominated, selected or elected for a period of five years by any commission set up by NCD, duly approved, authorised and empowered at the Annual General Meeting of the Councillors.

They said to be an executive member (office bearer) of NCD, the basic requirement is that one should have experience of

at least one tenure as councillor and only in the second consecutive tenure is he/ she eligible to be installed as an executive member.

Responding to the earlier rejoinder, they alleged that the statement given by some dissidents/vested interest groups was nothing but “an after-thought, concocted and with mala-fide intention of misleading the people”.

T h e r e j o i n d e r ex plained that the basic idea behind the formation of NCD was to set up a common platform for all tribes living in Dimapur and promote cooperation and unity among them to encourage social and cultural values, uphold harmony among members of the different tribes and promote and propagate the customary practices of Naga way of life. To give effect to these ideals, there is a general

body of NCD comprising of councillors representing all Naga tribes of Dimapur Though the tenure of the outgoing NCD expired on March 31, 2020, the Committee said the previous office bearers continued to officiate as caretakers due to exigencies and unavoidable circumstances due to the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic and thereafter the lockdown being imposed in Dimapur.

Consequently, as a prevalent practice, a search/ selection commission was set up on July 4. Hence, they asserted that “ no illegality could be attributed to the stop-gap arrangement that was in place during the lockdown”. They said due to the lockdown and ban on gathering/meetings, the commission could not call for a general meeting.

Section of the gathering at the general meeting of PDMGDVA at Chozuba town on November 14.

KOHIMA, NOV 15 (NPN): Maytas Gayatri Damaged Victims’ Association (PDMGDVA) Phek district has expressed its sincere appreciation to Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) for having resolved at its extended executive meeting at Phek town on June 29, 2019 to pursue the matter of pending damaged compensation for Maytas-Gayatri (JV) damaged victims and subsequent filing of PIL at high court.

(Cont’d on p-6) In a general meeting

held at Chozuba town local ground on Saturday, PDMGDVA also recorded its deep appreciation to all VCCs and GBs of affected villages for taking bold decision to ensure that justice is delivered to the victims, MGDVA general secretary Kuvesa Medeo stated in a press note.

In a resolution adopted in this regard, the association reposed confidence on the wisdom and decision of CPO and petitioners of PIL, besides unanimously

resolving to give full cooperation and comply with any condition set hereafter

by CPO for welfare of the victims in particular and the community in general.

Taking cognizance of strong resistance and defiance of CPO’s resolution by 2-Lane Sedzü to Dzülha Aggrieved Property Owners’ Association, the house warned that if the crucial court process is affected or hampered in any manner, all signatories of the “premedit a t e d ” (Cont’d on p-6) K Y M C

2

state

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

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

Inspection of soil testing laboratory at Sechu-Zubza

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

A

B

A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.

C

93% 7% 0%

Next poll

Q: Have the bans on sale

and bursting of firecrackers been successful ?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

Y Kikheto Yeptho APC interacting with state nodal officer of Soil Health Management, Khekiho Shohe.

WEATHER FORECAST november 16

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Hazy sunshine

31 17

Aizawl

Sunshine and patchy clouds

Guwahati Hazy sunshine Imphal

Brillant sunshine and nice

29 15 30 16 27 10

Itanagar Sunny and not as warm

27 14

Shillong Sunshine and pleasant

23 8

Kohima

Sunny and pleasant

23 11

Dimapur Sunny and cooler but pleasant 27 14 Mkg

Sunny and not as warm

Tuensang Sunny and cooler Wokha

Sunshine and not as warm

Zunheboto Sunny and not as warm

25 11 17 8 23 14 22 10

DIMAPUR: Agriculture production commissioner (APC), Y. Kikheto Sema inspected the ongoing installation of soil testing laboratory (STL) at Soil and Water Conservation (S&WC) Training & Research Institute, SechuZubza on November 14.

A press release by S&WC additional director, Khekiho Shohe stated that, Kikheto lauded the Soil & Water Conservation department for the having the laboratory and working tirelessly to facilitate similar laboratories in all the 11 districts of the state. He

said that with the STL in place, there would be better understanding of soil and more output of crops and that department can guide farmers towards sustainable livelihood by utilizing the facility. He also mentioned that the department after lot of hard work was seeing the light of the day with the establishment of the laboratories, which would be followed by testing and providing the soil health cards to farmers.

Kikheto further said that it was time for the Nagas to stand on their own feet by going back to the land and

news in Brief

DIMAPUR: Modern College Kohima (MCK) observed the “National Education Day” with a seminar on “National Education Policy 2020” on November 11, organised by MCK research committee.

A press release by MCK stated that, programme was divided into two sessions, where panel of speakers for first session Kaikho Ezhiini, Vekuno Cukhamu, Mezhuvi Thorie, Weche-ü Thahu and Kikatemba Ozukum dealt on NEP with special focus on school education.

The second session focussed on higher education by panel of speakers, Senjano N Murry, Deepali Thapa, Nukchala Jamir and Watimongla Imchen. Sessions were followed with series of questions from the audience.

Concluding remark was given by Dr. Vitsou Yano, principal, Modern College, Kohima and vote of thanks

by Keleseno Longkumer, academic officer.

K Y M C

remedial measures so far.

Claiming the “ice-cold like response by the network providers as nothing sort but a total rebuff to the honest consumers and the public in general”, the PTYO said that the constant disruptions of mobile network service was bringing untold hardships to the students and hampering their careers at large.

In addition to the hardships faced by students, the PTYO said that consumers had to face the usual automatic shut down of all mobile networks with every single electricity outage, terming it as “day light robbery”.

Coordination meeting held at Meluri

DIMAPUR: Co-ordination meeting of government departments, CSOs & NGOs under Meluri sub-division for empowerment of people’s rights and entitlements through constitutional provision was organised by NBCC/PBCC in partnership with Nagaland Development Outreach and in collaboration with administrative department Meluri, supported by Church Auxiliary for Social Action (CASA) at Pochury Hoho conference hall on November 12. According to DIPR report, ADC Meluri, Chuba Temjen focused on fundamental rights and directive principles of state policy of the Indian constitution. Others who spoke included SMO, Dr. Chukhusie CHC Meluri, SDAO Lisütho Phoji, CDPO Porütho and Raso SIS on behalf of educational department. SOWSORD director, Moses T. Fithu highlighted on the concept of the programme.

3

RD

IN REMEMBRANCE

DEATH ANNIVERSARY Mrs. P. N. AJUNGLA

DIMAPUR: Denouncing the defection of 5 GPRN/ NSCN members led by one A. Khampei Opeiham Konyak and ‘capt.’ Nahjan Konyak to NSCN/GPRN, Yung Aung group on November 7, the GPRN/NSCN has urged the concerned “to first thoroughly ascertain their agenda(s) before incorporating the name of GPRN/NSCN in future.”

GPRN/NSCN through its MIP stated that, A. Khampei Opeiham Konyak, a deputy kilonser in the NSCN (I-M) has been known by GPRN/NSCN as a habitual defector who approached and sought to join the GPRN/NSCN in the month of October 2019. MIP stated that based on his past activities and records, the GPRN/ NSCN had denied and no sort of membership was confirmed or accorded to him and his followers till date.

GPRN/NSCN has therefore clarified that “A. Khampei Opeiham Konyak was neither a member nor a kilonser of GPRN/NSCN but a habitual defector who have least concern and value of the general Naga people’s aspiration but is best characterized as a habitual defector with no locus standi”. GPRN/NSCN further warned that any individual/group taking the name and maligning the image of the GPRN will be reattributed as per their actions.

2ND DEATH ANNIVERSARY of our beloved mother Lt. Hukali Yeptho

You left us two years back without a goodbye.

All we have are memories and picture in a frame.

Your memory is keepsake from which we will never be apart. God has you in his arms and we have you in our hearts. Our dear Mom Loving husband & sons

Born on 09/09/1972 Died on 16/11/2018

1ST DEATH ANNIVERSARY OF LATE PUSWEZO PORU

of

LATE K. HUTOLI AWOMI

13th Feb. 1944 – 16th Nov. 2017 Time flies.

Life goes on at its own pace.

But some Memories can never Be forgotten or erased.

You will always remain In our thoughts.

We love you, dearest Mom! Husband, children, in-laws & grandchildren

MKC-254

16th November 2019 Dear, Apo Though you are no more physically with us, still we feel your presence within us and alive in our hearts. We always remember you.

Missing you today and always.

Loving family members K-1840

6TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY

Police recovers unidentified body

MCK observes ‘National Education Day’

DIMAPUR: Dismayed over the poor mobile network services of BSNL, Jio, Vodafone and Airtel at Peren town, the Peren Town Youth Organisation (PTYO), Peren town has appealed all mobile network providers to immediately redress the matter at the earliest.

A press release by PTYO president, Nduzeu and general secretary, Gamsa Insing stated that, various civil organisations, administration, institutions etc had at regular intervals complained about the constant disruption of network service but with no positive and

6TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY

National press day to be observed: Kohima Press Club (KPC) and Dimapur Press Club (DPC) will be observing the National press day on November 16, under the theme “Role of media during the COVID19 pandemic and its impact on media” at Hotel Japfü Kohima and Tourist Lodge Dimapur respectively.

All the press and media fraternity of Kohima and Dimapur have been invited to participate in the respective programmes.

Lost and found: UT, GPRN (NSCN-IM) has recovered one four wheeler Bolero pick up 4WD PS, chassis number-MA1ZC4TBKK1J73589, engine number TBK1J79687. Rightful owner has been informed to claim by producing the original documents within 7 days from date of this publication.

One may contact at 7085596462. Meanwhile, the Circuit House Colony chairman Zulu Longkumer has informed that a scooty bearing NL 07 M8117 has been abandoned at Circuit House Colony for almost a week. Rightful owner has been informed to collect the scooty with valid document within 15 days.

Lt. K. Arhomo Lotha Born: 14.07.1960 Died: 16.10.2014

09/10/1965 – 16/11/2014

Six years ago, on this day 16/11/2014, our beloved mother and my wife left for her heavenly abode. All the sweet memories that we shared together remain afresh in our heart till today. We fondly remember her beauty, cheerful smile, warm love, care and her prayer of faith in Jesus Christ. We thank God for blessing her in our lives.

Even though your soul has left this earthly world, we always remember your love and compassion showed to the people and us. We all dearly miss you and the beautiful memories shared.

May God Bless your soul.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13

We deeply miss you.

DP-4995

DIMAPUR: Dimapur Police has recovered one unidentified body, male/non-local lying at Dimapur Railway Station, platform number 2 on November 14.

According to Police/PRO, inquest was conducted over the dead body and the cause of dead was ascertained to be due to illness. On completion of all legal formalities the dead body has been shifted to District Hospital Dimapur for PM examination/identification.

The deceased was wearing black sweater and long pant with woolen blanket. PRO has informed claimant/ relatives/friends of the deceased to contact officer-incharge/GRPS, Dimapur.

starting organic farming, as after 57 years, there was a full fledged proper facility to test the soil.

During interaction with departmental officials, he was positive that in near future the soil testing lab would serve as a gateway and unify various agri & allied departments.

He also felt that setting up of soil testing laboratories in every district by the department would bring prosperity to all the communities. Later, the APC visited upcomimg Organic AC Market at Agri Expo Site, Dimapur.

PTYO dismayed over poor GPRN/NSCN denounces network service in Peren reports about defection

K-1835

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Should the NHIDCL clarify to public why the 4-lane work is taking so long?

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

We shall meet again in heaven.

Loving husband, sons and daughters.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

DP-5011

Loving wife, children, grandchildren, relatives and friends

IN LOVING MEMORY of our Beloved Apfo

Lt. THENUKESAÜ IVON KERETSÜ On her 1st Death Anniversary 16/11/2019 - 16/11/2020

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His Saints”.

Pslams 116:15

Born on 12/02/1986 – Died on 08/11/2020 We the bereaved family of Lt. Vilhoutsinuo Pfüsenuo would like to express our deepest gratitude to all who stood by us spiritually, emotionally, physically, financially and through prayer support and kind presence in our time of bereavement at the sudden and sad demise of our beloved on November 8, 2020.

We would like to convey our special thanks to : 1. Zhadi Bawe A.G. Church 11. GIVF Hospital Kohima Doctors & staff 2. Zhadi Basa A.G. Church 12. O.C. and Staff Chiephobozou P.S 3. St. Peter & Paul Church, Zhadima 13. Zhadimiapfü Krotho, Kohima 4. Baptist Church, Zhadima 14. Chazou Krotho Pfüko 5. Christian Revival Church, Zhadima 15. Zhadima Union Kohima 6. Christian Church, Zhadima 16. Loucü Student’s Union . Children Ministry Zhadi Bawe 17. First A.G. Church Kohima 8. Children Ministry Zhadi Basa 18. Kekhrie Group Kimho 9. Youth Alive Zhadi Bawe 19. Summer Club, Zhadima 10. First A.G. Church Kohima Women 20. Zhadi Bawe A.G. Thenupfüko We deeply regret our inability to thank each and everyone of you individually but we pray that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

Loving husband, daughter, son and relatives DP-5007

Dearest Apfo On this very day a year ago, you left us for your Heavenly Abode but the memories of you are still alive with us. We miss you ever more with each passing day as if it’s the only way for us to remember someone who is so far away.

Your sheer will and courage towards life will continue to inspire us throughout our lives and ever more your loving heart towards the people in your life. You will always be our pride and joy as we remember you.

Until we meet again at the feet of Jesus. We miss you Apfo Yours lovingly, Children, Relatives & Dear Ones.

K-1831

K Y M C

India-Pak war memorial to be built in Tripura

Kumar Yadav told IANS. He said that at the Post Office Chowmuhani in the middle of the state capital Agartala was a war memorial that housed one battle tank and one artillery gun captured from East Pakistan during the 1971 war.

On Sunday, these were shifted to the Lichubagan park where the Albert Ekka war memorial is coming up.

“The Army also had a small war memorial at Lichubagan, dedicated to the martyrs of the 1971 war. Lance Naik Albert

NSCN (I-M) condoles DIMAPUR: The Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN) has expressed grief at the untimely demise of (L) Horngathing Horam, Section Officer (SO), Ministry of Forest and Environment (MFE), NSCN/GPRN from Sihai Khunou village under Wung Tangkhul Region (WTR) on the November 14, 2020. Horngathing Horam enrolled in the Naga national service on the November 19, 2004.

A press release by the MIP,NSCN 9I-M) stated that Horngathing Horam served the Naga nation with unwavering patriotism until his demise, adding that the void created by his demise is deeply felt and would be difficult to fill in.

For his selfless contribution to the Naga national cause, his name shall be recorded in the pages of the Naga history and his sacrifices for the Naga nation shall ever be cherished by all, the release added.

NSCN/GPRN further conveyed condolences to the bereaved family members and friends of Horngathing Horam and prayed for his soul to rest in eternal peace.

Ekka was awarded Param Vir Chakra for the battle of Gangasagar (in Bangladesh along India’s Tripura), which was a part of the 1971 war theatre. He saved Agartala from getting captured by Pakistani forces.”

A replica of the existing 40-feet victory pillar at the post office Chowmuhani has been constructed at the Lichubagan park,” said Yadav, who is also the West Tripura District Magistrate and Collector.

He said that it was a long standing demand of Indian Army to construct

a bigger war memorial by combining both of these war memorials. The Indian Army and Tripura Sainik Board raised this issue with Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb after the BJP-led government came to power in the state in 2018.

The ASCP CEO said that the war memorial project was taken up under the Smart City Mission.

He said that to ease traffic congestion in the city, the historic tank and the artillery gun were shifted to the under-construction war memorial.

Yadav said that according to Brigadier JP Tiwari (retd) of Tripura Sainik Board, the tank and the gun shifted on Sunday have no connection with erstwhile kings of Tripura.

“Some unscrupulous elements are spreading rumours regarding this to create communal disharmony,” he said.

“The only aim is to fulfil the longstanding demand of our armed forces to create a befitting war memorial for the 1971 war and war hero Albert Ekka, a demand which remained unfulfilled for decades,” the ASCP CEO pointed out.

Womenfolk protest against bomb threat in Manipur

Correspondent

IMPHAL, Nov 15: Manipur police on Sunday recovered two hand grenades suspected to have been planted by militants at two different areas in Imphal.

One of the hand grenades was found planted at the main entrance gate of Hindustan Construction Company Private Limited at Lamshang in Imphal West district early Sunday morning.

Police suspect the bomb was planted as a threat to the company in relation with extortion activities of an armed militant group.

The police further recovered a Chinese made hand grenade planted at the veranda of a house belonging to Khuraijam Nabakanta at

Kongba Kshetri Leikai under Irilbung police station of Imphal East district.

Nabakanta is an official of the state consumer affairs, food and public distribution (CAF&PD) . His family members found the hand grenade lying at the gate in the around 6.30 am on Sunday.

Police suspect the bomb was planted to threaten the officer in connection with monetary demands. Militants have been frequently threatening officials of the CAF&PD in the state.

Bomb experts of the state police who rushed to the spot defused the hand grenade and later disposed it in an open space.

Denouncing the bomb threat at the house, womenfolk of the locality staged a protest at the entrance gate

“The 1971 war comprised two major operations -- Operation Cactus Lily and Operation Nut Cracker -- and 57 Mountain Division was actively involved in both operations with fire power support from 57 Mountain Artillery Brigade,” pointed out defence analyst Manas Paul.

“Both operations progressed from Agartala westwards towards Dhaka. The war finally culminated on December 16, 1971 with the unconditional surrender of 93,000 Pakistani soldiers. Lt Gen Jagjit Singh Aurora, Maj Gen Ian Cardozo, Lt Arun Khetrapal, Lance Naik Albert Ekka are a few of our war heroes,” the analyst added.

He underscored the valiant sacrifices made by officers and soldiers of the Indian Army, specially Lance Naik Albert Ekka (of Jharkhand) in the 1971 war.

Paul said: “The Indian Army, accompanied by the people of the then East Pakistan, fought the war most effectively, decisively and protected the sovereignty of both present day Bangladesh and India.”

of the house today.

A woman in the protest registered a strong protest against the bomb threat amid the bad time of COVID-19 pandemic.

“Why bomb threats to an individual at this time of pandemic that threw the people not only in the state but in the entire globe into the pool of woes. It is not the time to threaten people with bombs. This is the time we stand united and fight COVID-19 that threatens the existence of human beings, ” she said. She further stated that if any group resorting to armed struggle to regain Manipur’s lost sovereignty is behind the bomb threat, they should to clarify their act. Placards with slogans denouncing the bomb threat were displayed at the protest site.

Manipur CM N Biren Singh tests COVID-19 positive

Correspondent

IMPHAL, NOV 15: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh who had attended a series of events in the last few days on Sunday made known in a Facebook post that he has tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

The chief minister said he was fine at the moment but did not explain whether he was hospitalised or on home isolation.

“Friends, I have tested Covid positive today after having some symptoms.

All those who have been in close proximity to me in the last few days are requested to get themselves tested.

I am fine at the moment” Singh wrote.

Sources said that the chief minister was tested after he developed symptoms of the new coronavirus like cough and headache on Sunday morning.

He was first tested with a Rapid Antigen kit .After the result turned out positive, his swab sample was again tested with RT PCR to confirm the infection by the virus.

The chief minister had attended a series of events in the last few days after he

was actively involved campaigning for his party (BJP) candidates in the recently concluded by-polls in four Assembly segments.

The by-polls that his party (BJP) won in three of the four seats were held on November 7 last.

At the latest, the chief minister met with some leaders of the Thadou Students’ Association (TSA) at his native residence at Luwangshangbam in Imphal.

“Thadou Students’ Association (TSA) leaders called on me at my residence at Luwangsangbam to congratulate me on the huge mandate of the people and thumping victory at the recent by-election. I urge the student group to assist the Government and help in eradicating the drugs menace,” the Singh tweeted on the same day.

Earlier on November 12, Singh had attended the swearing in ceremony of the newly elected members of the state Assembly.

On the same day, he had also addressed a press conference held at the chief minister’s secretariat and launching function of an oil palm project earlier.

On November 10, he chaired a cabinet meeting held at the cabinet room of the chief minister’s secretariat.

The positive result of the chief minister has come at a time when the state government is considering mass testing of people in the four Assembly segments where the by-polls were conducted on November 7 last.

The chief minister was the latest among the sitting legislators of the state to test positive for COVID-19.

Earlier, state works minister Th Bishwajit and the then social welfare minister Nemcha Kipgen had been infected by the contagion. Nemcha has been removed from the council of ministers in the last week of September this year.

Congress MLA Md Fajur Rehman was the first state legislator who contracted the virus. Rahman who tested positive after his return from New Delhi had even skipped a one session of the state Assembly on August 10 last.

Among the top officials of the state administration, DGP LM Khoute had also recently tested positive for the viral infection.

Assam gas well 'killed', fire fully doused after over 5 months Guwahati/Tinsukia, Nov 15 (PTI): In a multi-agency effort, the damaged gas well at Baghjan in Assam was successfully 'killed' and the blaze was fully doused on Sunday after over five months of a blowout, Oil India said.

The worst industrial disaster of the Northeast took away the lives of three employees of the PSU major and injured several others.

The process to control the well by joint efforts of multiple teams, including foreign experts, also faced a series of setbacks.

"The well has been killed with brine solution and under control now. Fire has been doused completely," Oil India Ltd (OIL) spokesperson Tridiv Hazarika said in a statement.

There is no pressure in the well now and it will be under observation over the next 24 hours to check if there is any amount of gas migration and pressure build-up, he added.

"Further operation to abandon the well is in progress," Hazarika said, adding that experts from Singaporean firm Alert Disaster Control were actively engaged in the final operation to control the well.

Senior officials from the company said Alert Disaster Control's snubbing unit from Canada reached the site last month and the success could be achieved in an effort by experts from the global firm, OIL and ONGC.

DC-736

The work on the new war memorial at Lichubagan park began around three months ago and is likely to be completed in another 9-10 months.

AGARTALA, NOV 15 (IANS): After around 50 years, the Tripura government has undertaken a Rs 4.83 crore project to construct a war memorial on the city outskirts to commemorate the 1971 India-Pakistan war, resulting in the creation of Bangladesh.

The work on the new war memorial at Lichubagan park began around three months ago and is likely to be completed in another 9-10 months,” Agartala Smart City Project (ASCP) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shailesh

3

northeast/State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

State

Legal literacy awareness held in Longleng

Chief judicial magistrate Ajongba Imchen and LDLSA team with Ao Union Longleng at Longleng on November 14. (NP)

Correspondent LO N G L E N G, N OV 1 5 (NPN): Longleng District Legal Services Authority (LDLSA) conducted a programme on “legal literacy awareness” at Shamakok Mission School Longleng, with Ao Union on November 14, with Ajongba Imchen CJM and panel lawyer, M. Chingmei Phom as resource persons.

During the first session, speaking on the subject “cybercrime”, M Chingmei Phom said that cyber crime referred to any type of illegal activity that takes place via digital means. He also cited that “data theft” was one of the most common types of cybercrime, but cybercrime also included a wide range of malicious activity, such as cyber

bullying or planting worms or viruses.

He also said that cybercrimes can be divided into two distinct categories, such as causing intentional and those that cause unintentional damages. With advancement of technology, many incidents ofmonetary cheating on social media and mobile phone, defamation on social networking sites and copy right reserve cases were common, therefore he called upon every individual to be aware of its uses and consequences.

At the second session, Ajongba Imchen spoke on the topic “First Information Report” (FIR), wherein he said FIR refers to information recorded by a police officer on duty given either by the aggrieved person or by any other

person to the commission of an alleged offence. Based on the FIR, the police commence its investigation under various section of IPC & CRPC, he added and that an FIR was an important document as it sets the process of criminal justice in motion. Ajongba also spoke on Motor Vehicle Act, Victim Compensation Act, Domestic Violence, Fundamental Rights & Duties, BPL and Old Age Pension Scheme.

During the interaction sessions, many queries were raised by the participants and clarified by the resource persons. Earlier, programme was chaired by T. ChingyauPhom, para legal volunteer, Obser vation Home LDLSA, while pastor Ao Baptist Church Longleng invoked God's blessings.

JJM campaign on safe drinking water to children DIMAPUR: As part of the nationwide 100 days campaign to provide assured safe water supply in schools and Anganwadi centres under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), the PHED (rural) division Dimapur organised an IEC campaign on “Safe drinking water to children” on November 13 at Kuhuboto block, Dimapur.

A press release by PHED (rural) division Dimapur stated that, Er. Myanbemo presiding over the campaign programme pointed out that providing safe water to children was a priority under the JJM. He briefed the participants on the objective of the 100 days campaign.

State chemist, PHED, Roland Kikon speaking on water quality and monitoring, said that clear water was not necessarily an indicator of safe water and that one has to test in order to determine the water quality. While discussing on the pH of water, bateriological, chemical and physical aspects of water, he stressed on the importance and methods of protecting water sources from contamination.

A brief message on safe drinking water to children was given by Imojungla Longkumer, sanitation and hygiene consulatant DWSM, PHED (R) division and vote of thanks was delivered by Er. Longchendi Longchar, JE, PHE-Kuhuboto. Earlier WATSAN chairman, Kheshiho Zhimomi pronounced invocation prayer in the programme attended by Anganwadi workers and teachers. The IEC campaign was sponsored by Sanitation and WSSO, PHED Nagaland.

DC Dimapur convenes meeting DIMAPUR: Deputy commissioner of Dimapur, Rajesh Soundararajan has informed all concerned that draft electoral roll with January 1, 2021 as qualifying date will be published on November 16, 12 p.m at DC’s conference hall, Dimapur. All concerned have been requested to attend positively.

NAME/LOGO OF NEWSPAPER

On this National Press Day

Our Newspaper reiterates its commitment to free, fair and ethical journalism.

November 16

4

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 342 Dimapur, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

N

Minority CM

itish Kumar is to become the chief minister of Bihar for the fourth consecutive term, a record that will be difficult to beat as much as the difficulty in finding another wily politician like Nitish who has dominated Bihar for over 15 years but who is definitely on his way out. Nitish may not be forced into retirement that early because the BJP needs him as part of its 2021 West Bengal assembly polls and 2024 Lok Sabha election. In Bihar, the BJP has at long last, surpassed the Janata Dal(United) but is saddled with an exhausted leader in Nitish Kumar. It is only a matter of time before the party asserts itself and takes the driver’s seat in the state. The Bihar scenario is baffling- BJP won 74 -almost double the seats won by JD(U) which won 43 seats, yet the latter will head the government.

Again, though the Rashtriya Janata Dal(RJD) won the mandate with higher voting percentage and 75 seats, yet it will not form the government.

The BJP has Nitish eating out of its hands now and installing him amid a massive Nitish-hatao campaign isn’t going to be popular. BJP can dispense of Nitish sooner rather than later. He has served three terms as the state’s chief minister since 2005, but has been a pale shadow of himself - directionless, fickle and far from his earlier alluring image of sushasan babu. RJD leader Manoj Jha had taken a jibe at Nitish, saying he was becoming chief minister but did not have the people’s mandate. Jha was having in mind the Bihar result where Nitish’s JDU could win only 43 and with BJP’s 74 seats, forms the government.

Though the NDA has dashed Tejashwi Yadav’s hopes of becoming the chief minister of Bihar,his party RJD emerged as the single largest party in the state by winning 75 seats with a total vote share of 23.1 per cent. If anything, Nitish’s image and popularity have both seen a significant dip, a factor that has possibly weighed the BJP down.

Nitish’s flip-flop on the BJP, his commitment to the idea of secularism, his frequent campshifting and the absence of any coherent political, ideological or social thought have made him a far paler and diminished version of his earlier self. The JD (U) chief’s ‘silent’ women vote bank may have remained intact, but his reduced numbers are a reflection of his reduced stature and political clout. Letting Nitish be the face of Bihar government is most definitely going to weigh the BJP down in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Probably what is keeping the BJP from doing what it wants is the forthcoming big West Bengal assembly election in 2021. The BJP needs Nitish in Bihar so as to work together work in West Bengal to oust Mamata Banerjee. The BJP’s other unlikely blessing in disguise, has been the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM), under Assauddin Owaisi. AIMIM has been ensuring that Muslim votes do not go to Congress or other nonBJP parties. In Bihar, AIMIM cornered majority of Muslim votes and won five seats. Though Nitish will become chief minister again, he will have to be beholden to the BJP, in a situation where he may not be comfortable as he will now have to play second fiddle.

DailyDevotion “What Is That to You?”

Peter…said to Jesus, "But Lord, what about this man?" Jesus said to him, "…what is that to you?

You follow Me." —John 21:21-22 One of the hardest lessons to learn comes from our stubborn refusal to refrain from interfering in other people’s lives. It takes a long time to realize the danger of being an amateur providence, that is, interfering with God’s plan for others. You see someone suffering and say, “He will not suffer, and I will make sure that he doesn’t.” You put your hand right in front of God’s permissive will to stop it, and then God says, “What is that to you?” Is there stagnation in your spiritual life? Don’t allow it to continue, but get into God’s presence and find out the reason for it. You will possibly find it is because you have been interfering in the life of another— proposing things you had no right to propose, or advising when you had no right to advise. When you do have to give advice to another person, God will advise through you with the direct understanding of His Spirit. Your part is to maintain the right relationship with God so that His discernment can come through you continually for the purpose of blessing someone else.

Most of us live only within the level of consciousness— consciously serving and consciously devoted to God. This shows immaturity and the fact that we’re not yet living the real Christian life. Maturity is produced in the life of a child of God on the unconscious level, until we become so totally surrendered to God that we are not even aware of being used by Him. When we are consciously aware of being used as broken bread and poured-out wine, we have yet another level to reach— a level where all awareness of ourselves and of what God is doing through us is completely eliminated. A saint is never consciously a saint— a saint is consciously dependent on God.

Quotes

Tell me who admires and loves you, and I will tell you who you are. ~ Antoine de Saint-Exupery

P

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

Rs 1.2 lakh cr stimuli impact in 3 years

ost Bihar poll, a new stimulus package was being awaited. Its impact would be felt in the next three years though it may gradually give a boost to the housing sector and some others that have been linked to production-linked incentive.

The raucous Bihar election discussion on economy, jobs and serious financial problems of the poor has forced the government to announce yet another package of Rs 2.65 lakh crore aimed at creating jobs, boost demand, augment infrastructure and ensuring growth back on track. However, it needs to be understood that not much money actually would flow in from official coffers. The Rs 1.2 lakh crore guarantees to the sectors would be given only to loans that had an outstanding limit ranging from Rs 50 crore to Rs 400 crore as on February 29, 2020.

The additional budgetary burden would remain limited to Rs 1.2 lakh crore with which Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman wants to achieve all that she is aiming at.

It would have been a welcome package in a

no-covid19 lockdown situation. It is not unwelcome now either but the homeopathic dose would show time to reflect on the economic growth. The country needs some immediate steps and some of the euphoria being shown on rise of purchasing manager index (PMI) and GST realization are a bit too premature. The rises look great in the face of virtually no activity till two months ago.

The government needs to pay more attention on easing its rules on GST penalty, issuing reckless number of high value unnecessary traffic challans, irregular power metering in many states, covid19 rent seeking and similar other harassment of the people, the brunt of which is borne by the businesses also.

Another issue that has hit the common man is the sharp rise in prices of vegetables, food grains and other commodities. Prices have gone at a six-and-ahalf-year high. Food inflation at 7.66 percent has emerged as major policy concern. For 13 months in a row, it is above the RBI 4 percent inflation target and breaches the 6 percent tolerance level for succes-

sive seven months, the Care Ratings says.

Sitharaman quotes Moody’s Investor Service’s projection of revised contraction (not growth) of 8.9 percent from the earlier 9.6 percent. It may elate the officials but it would cause little improvement at the base level. She says that together with RBI the total package announced is of Rs 29.8 lakh crore. It looks big but actual budgetary costs would not be that high. Most of the brunt is to be taken by the banking sector as most outgo would be on credit account.

It lowers the gains of PMI as actual purchasShivaji ing power is reduced by the inflation numbers. Though it may reflect in figures, the gains to producers would be far less.

The loan guarantees are given for 26 stressed sectors, including power, construction, iron & steel, roads, real estate, consumer durables, aviation, wholesale trading, logistics, hotels, tourism and mining identified by the KV Kamath-headed committee and healthcare sector. Earlier, the guarantee was limited to small

businesses. Now it has been extended all stressed sectors irrespective of turnover till March 31, 2021. New loans availed during the lockdown would not be covered by it. According to SBI chief economist SK Ghosh, it might help 40,000 units but if the overall cost is around Rs 3 lakh crore it could be a constraining factor.

Strangely enough the Kamath committee has not said that the banking sector is stressed. In reality, India’s finances are critical as deposits are receding with policies of taxing deposits, interest accruals (not earning) Sarkar and levying of charges even on realization of money through cheques and creating other disincentives, including lower interest rates. Keeping deposits is like a sitting duck to be preyed on continuously by the income tax and GST. The government needs to consider banking being kept away from GST as well as tax-deduction at source. It is the most stressed industry and the waivers given to companies like DHFL hits the balance sheet more.

As inflation is likely

to remain elevated, hopes for a rate cut by RBI is unlikely. In reality, the rates are below the threshold. To match with the rising prices, interest rates should be raised to keep the economic direction on right path. Low rates are further detrimental to banking health and should be a key concern.

While it is nice to see that the government is keen on giving relief to road and construction sectors, it also needs to consider relief for the users. High tolls and many other levies are making road travels expensive further retarding growth.

In fact, the road sector cess and charges are the highest in the world. It appears that in pursuit of revenue realization and profits, the government overlooks the fact that how unrealistic the charges are. The continuous increase of levies cause economic retardation as it adds to inflation.

So the 20 percent relief that the government wants to give on circle rates is welcome. It also means that circle rates are unrealistically high. The prudent action would be to reduce the circle charges. This way it would neither need to tax people nor a package needs

to be proffered. It is an unnecessary rigmarole.

The covid19 itself has been given an extra stress.

The lockdown itself could not have been so stringent.

The stimuli are becoming more cosmetic with the government itself taking a hit. Atmanirbhar Bharat needs freedom to function and shed all covid19 restrictions to let the society come back to normal, including educational institutions.

The NSO data show industrial production rise by 0.2 percent in September against 8 percent contraction in August. The October data indicate improvement in auto output, electricity generation, GST largely led by the festive season. The market still is not having the normal footfall. Growth of Coal India and nonoil exports looks positive.

But doubts are expressed at sustenance beyond the present festivities by Aditi Nair, principal economist of ICRA ratings.

The government has fine intentions but such stimuli may have limited effect. Once again it must sit with all to decide on a policy for course correction that can ensure sustained growth for the next three years.

Post-mortem

Why effective e-governance at the local level is a challenge

T

he development of ‘E-Governance Index’

by Indian states will go a long way in assessing the impact of India’s digital initiatives down to the district level in each state.

Local bodies, whether rural or urban, are the first point of citizen-government interface. Thus, their role in the successful implementation of any policy initiative is crucial.

The idea of 'e-governance', which is one of the pillars of the ‘Digital India’ initiative, is no exception in this regard.

According to the Internet and Mobile Association of India and Nielsen report 2019, there are 504 million active internet users in India aged five and above. To provide effective and efficient e-governance to this ‘digital dividend’, work needs to be done at the local level.

This means a strict focus on developing district-level e-governance index, building public trust regarding digital initiatives, and providing reliable internet connectivity. This can be achieved by an increased digital penetration down to the local level and subsequent centre-state cooperation for timely implementation of digital policy initiatives.

The National E-Governance Service Delivery Assessment (NeSDA) report published in 2019 measured the depth and effectiveness of service delivery mechanisms from the citizen’s perspective in the Indian states. This shows the noble intent of the government, in compliance with Digital India’s third vision area — ‘Digital empowerment of citizens’.

This effort is commendable.

However, India’s 100th rank out of 193 countries in UN E-Government Development Index 2020 and its 83rd rank out of 85 countries (ranked in terms of speed and stability of internet connection) in ‘Digital Quality of Life Index 2020’ shows that there still is a long road ahead.

The low-ranking states in the NeSDA report reflect that their districts performed poorly on the parameters of ‘accessibility’, ‘ease of use’ and ‘end service delivery’ among others. Districtlevel assessment becomes paramount for the better performance of states on these parameters. It will play a major role in improving India’s overall performance

in the UN E-Government Development Index because there is an intricate connection between local, state and national development. India’s improvement in the rankings of international e-government indices depends on the improvement of the states’ performances, which thereby depends on the performances of individual districts.

The quasi-federal system in an Indian democratic setup expects certain development and welfare roles on the part of state governments as well.

The development of ‘E-Governance Index’ by the Indian states will go a long way in assessing the impact of India’s digital initiatives down to the district level in each state. It will help the states in assessing their own performances related to digitalisation and its efficacy for delivering services to the people.

The United Nations E-Government Survey has outlined participation as the cornerstone of governance, fundamental in increasing government’s accountability and making public services more responsive. Without participation, the idea of ‘citizen empowerment’ seems murky and diluted. Since the local bodies are in close proximity to the people as compared to the state or central governments, the perception formed by the citizens based on their experience with the processes of public service delivery by these bodies cannot be ignored. Thus, the district-level e-governance index should include indicators related to the impact of e-participation on the quality of online public services and timely redressal of grievances to comprehend and address citizen participation perspectives.

Since public trust-building is critical to ensure eparticipation; the central government needs to expedite the legislation regarding ‘Personal Data Protection’. This legislation, when enacted, will go a long way in building public trust regarding digital initiatives, thus facilitating e-participation. Additionally, the government will benefit from consecutively improving digital literacy among the citizens.

Slow internet speed is another issue that mars the delivery of effective and efficient e-governance. It creates short-term problems in the delivery of online services to

the people which results in wastage of time and eventual frustration in the minds of the citizens. In the long term, it may hinder the whole public service delivery mechanism affecting both the service provider in terms of public trust as well as cost-effectiveness and the recipients in terms of benefits.

Even after efforts to improve 4G coverage and provide faster internet access, India ranks a dismal 131 in the latest Ookla Speedtest for the mobile network. Hence, close cooperation is required between the centre and the states for improving the internet infrastructure in general, and for successful completion of BharatNet in particular, whose aim is to provide stable internet connectivity to all gram panchayats in India.

This initiative when completed at the earliest will bring India one step closer to realising the goal of e-governance through ‘Digital India’.

For the development of the district-level index, India does not need to look towards the West. One of its own northern states in the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh, has taken an initiative with an index on the state of governance in its districts named ‘Himachal Pradesh District Governance Index’.

However, this index developed by the Public Affairs Centre, Bangalore and commissioned by the state government of Himachal Pradesh takes into account the indicators related to the supply side alone (in the form of Number of Services provided under eGovernance plan). Although this initiative is commendable, it could be developed further or as a separate index with more indicators related to e-governance and citizen participation.

It will also help the state governments in targeting those districts where the ‘Digital India’ project has not produced desired results in terms of digital literacy and e-participation. Moreover, the data related to these indices could also serve as evidence for future policy regarding e-governance or digitalisation to achieve the vision of the incumbent Indian government, ie. “minimum government and maximum governance”.

Bhanu Pratap, Amit Kumar and Saurabh Kumar

Covid-19: Preserving the gains on education

I

t’s the job of institutions and government to provide infrastructure. We need a coherent policy tailored to specific regions and needs that will look at the complexities of online learning.

In Kerala, a 14-year-old girl set herself ablaze in June because she could not attend online classes since she didn’t have a smartphone. Kerala is one of the few states that offers classes on TV, but the set at home had stopped working a long time ago. In West Bengal, a 16-yearold girl hanged herself after her brother accidentally damaged the smartphone they shared.

A second-year scholarship student in Delhi’s Lady Shri Ram College, the daughter of a mechanic and a tailor, returned to Telangana following the closure of the college hostel. In her dying note, she said she did not want to financially burden her parents and asked that the scholarship money due to her should be paid to them.

Some fledgling efforts have been launched. Alumni of colleges and schools have stepped up to raise funds for devices for students in need. St. Stephen’s alumni have raised Rs. 200,000 so far. That’s a tiny drop in Delhi University, where 42% of students say they lack devices, connectivity or finances for data packs. What about rural India where only 15% of households have internet?

Such a gaping gap needs institutional aid or corporate social responsibility funding. In a Delhi slum, a schoolgirl I had interviewed told me that she and her sister shared a single smartphone between them and took turns to attend classes. Half classes were better than no classes, she figured. If classes have

gone online due to the pandemic, you have to ask who is benefitting from them. Unless every student can access this learning, you are only serving to exacerbate existing socio-economic and gender gaps.

Anurag Behar, CEO, Azim Premji Foundation, advocates communitybased classes for school children: Get the teachers to go to the mohallas where the children live; collect five to 15 of them, whoever lives in that mohalla and is anyway interacting closely; and conduct classes in a community space.

In places where Covid-19 numbers are rising sharply, keep classes shut. “If it’s a trade-off between the lives of people and six months of academic loss, which will you choose? At the same time why should we keep schools shut where the risk is minimal or can be managed?” he asks. Where numbers are flattening, classes can go on, but the risk can be minimised — schools can run on alternative days for half the students, for instance. It’s the job of institutions and government to provide infrastructure.

We need a coherent policy tailored to specific regions and needs that will look at the complexities of online learning.

Education, particularly the education of girls and the near-universal enrolment in primary and secondary education, has been India’s success story thanks to imaginative schemes such as mid-day meals and free bicycles.

Education during Covid-19 conditions needs a similar ability to reimagine learning coupled with a big dose of empathy, lest we lose the gains made in recent years.

Namita Bhandare

Reader’s Post Sir,

Kudos to KABC

When the Christians in Nagaland have almost forgotten ‘Nagaland for Christ’, the greatest commitment of the Naga believers ever made to God, as the commitment has been kept in the backburner for decades together, when the systems of election in Nagaland overshadowed the aura of Christianity in the State, when corruption has been the most dominant and vibrant factor that has filled the length and breadth of Nagaland, when timidity has substituted the bravery of the Nagas, when trust deficit has been peaking, when the malevolence has diluted the benevolence and when altruism has been displaced in our Christian society, there is still someone lightening a corner somewhere in Nagaland. That is no other than the Kohima Ao Baptist Church (KABC) for the sake of the needy people.

On Sunday, the 15th November, 2020, the local papers splashed the story about the benevolent act of KABC of donating a multi-storey RCC building with 34 beds, 12 double rooms, 2 dormitories with 16 gas connections, running water and cooking utensils to Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK). The KABC spent Rs. 165 lakhs on the project.

The NHAK has received this permanent facility on a platter which is expected to be a great relief particularly to the poorer section of our people. I hope the NHAK will manage it with efficiency and judiciousness. The rich and the powerful can survive with or without the facility now available, yet it is indispensable for the poorest section. How it is going to be managed I do not know and yet it should not be commercialized which then will be a defeat of the purpose of KABC. If at all, occupation is not going to be free of cost, the cost of rent must be nominal so as to give relief to those who deserve it. Congratulations to KABC. The humility, the humbleness and the generosity shown is indeed the fulfillment of James 2:17. The gift to the people of Nagaland is a catalyst whether the second Church emulates it or not. The exaltation of the name of Jesus Christ in action is the magnanimity of KABC. Z. Lohe 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.

Tarkishore or Renu tipped to be Bihar Deputy CM

Tarkishore Prasad

Renu Devi

Not much is known about Prasad in the political circles.

He hails from the Kalwar caste, which is a part of the Vaishya community that comes under the backward class category.

Prasad won from Katihar assembly segment in the current assembly elections for the fourth straight term.

The 52-year-old BJP leader has risen from the ranks of Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), an affiliate of the RSS. Prasad, who has been winning Katihar constituency since October 2005, is an Intermediate (10+2) science pass out from D S College, Katihar in 1974 and has shown agriculture

as his profession in the affidavit submitted in the recently held elections.

Renu Devi is from the Noniya caste, which is an extremely backward class community.

She has been elected four times from Bettiah to the Bihar Legislative Assembly and was a minister in Bihar in the second NDA governmnet in 2010 headed by Nitish Kumar.

“Congratulations to Tarkishore jee for being unanimously elected as BJP legislature party leader,” Sushil Kumar Modi said in a tweet.

Bihar BJPs president Sanjay Jaiswal also hails from Vaishya community.

BJP, which has traditionally been considered as the party of upper castes

Cong leader Ahmed Patel in ICU HM condoles weeks after contracting COVID demise of Bengali

Ahmed Patel New Delhi, Nov 15 (PTI): Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel, who tested positive for COVID19 a few weeks ago, has now been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of Medanta Hospital, Gurgaon for further treatment, his family said on Sunday.

Patel, 71, had announced on Twitter on October 1 that he had contracted coronavirus. In a tweet on Sunday, Ahmed Patel’s son Faisal said, “On behalf of his family, we would like to share that Shri Ahmed

Patel had tested positive for Covid19 a few weeks ago.

He has now been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of Medanta Hospital, Gurgaon for further treatment.”

“His condition is stable and he continues to be under medical observation...We request you to pray for his speedy recovery,” he said.

Several Congress leaders wished a speedy recovery to Patel. “Deeply concerned and praying for the good health of my friend and comrade Ahmed Patel. Please join us in praying for his early recovery,” senior Congress leader Anand Sharma tweeted. Many Congress leaders, including Abhishek Singhvi and Tarun Gogoi, had also tested positive for COVID-19 earlier. Besides Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, several Union ministers had also been infected with the novel coronavirus earlier.

actor Soumitra

NEW DELHI, NOV 15 (PTI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday condoled the demise of renowned actor Soumitra Chatterjee and said he took the Bengali cinema to new heights.

Chatterjee, 85, died at a hospital in Kolkata after over-a-month-long battle with multiple ailments.

“Deeply pained to learn about the demise of legendary Soumitra Chatterjee ji. An iconic actor, who took Bengali cinema to new heights.

“In Soumitra Da, Indian silver screen has lost a gem. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and countless followers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti,” Shah tweeted.

and Vaishyas/Baniyas, seems to be consolidating its base especially among Vaishyas and EBCs. Out of 24 Vaishyas/ Baniyas MLAs who won in the just concluded 2020 assembly polls, 15 are from BJP. Similarly, BJP won five while its ally JD(U) won nine seats out of the 19 EBC legislators.

Prasad said as a dedicated BJP worker whatever responsibility is given to him he would try to perform with all dedication.

“I came to know about my selection only in the legislature party meeting. Whatever work is given to me by the party I will try to perform it sincerely,” he told reporters.

Renu Devi said she will follow the party’s order.

Suspense on other ministers in Bihar

Also it will be interesting to see who all from the four NDA constituents -- the BJP, JD(U), Hindustani Awam Morcha and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) – form the state cabinet. The outgoing Bihar government had a total of 30 ministers, including Nitish Kumar and Sushil

Modi.

Among them 18 were from the JD(U) and the rest 12 from the BJP. With the BJP emerging as the largest party in the NDA with 74 MLAs and the JD(U)’s tally going down to 43 from 71, it would be interesting to see if the saffron party, which has sacrificed the post of the chief minister in honour of its pre-poll promise, will insist on having a larger share in the cabinet.

A total of 24 ministers of the previous cabinet had contested the polls and 10 of them, both from both the JD(U) and the BJP, lost.

Kumar, Sushil Modi and four others are members of the state’s Legislative Council and did not contest the polls. Since, two pre-poll constituents HAM and VIP have won four seats each, pushing the NDA’s tally past the magic figure of 122, there will be representation from them in the cabinet this time.

Jitan Ram Manjhi, who heads the HAM has made it clear that since he has already served as chief minister he won’t take up any ministerial assignment.

Jharkhand CM greets people on state’s 21st Foundation Day Ranchi, Nov 15 (PTI): Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Sunday extended his greetings to people on the occasion of the state’s 21st Foundation Day, and urged them to join hands and work for its progress and development.

Soren, along with Governor Draupadi Murmu, paid floral tributes to tribal leader and freedom fighter Birsa Munda on the occasion. The chief minister felicitated several police personnel for their service to the state.

The state of Jharkhand, carved out of Bihar, came into being on Munda’s birth anniversary in 2000.

The CM said that statehood was achieved after a long struggle, and Jharkhand, now just 20 year old, is moving forward on the path of development.

“Our goal and resolve is to build a Jharkhand of Dharti Aba’s (Birsa Munda) dreams. Today, on the occasion ofJharkhand’s Foundation Day, I extend my greetings to the people of the state,” Soren tweeted.

Leaders cutting across party lines have wished the people of Jharkhand on the occasion. In a tweet, Prime

Tribal community perform rituals after paying floral homage to the statue of Jharkhand founder Birsa Munda.(PTI)

Minister Narendra Modi said Munda was a true messiah of the poor and always fought for the deprived and disadvantaged sections of the society.

Soren’s counterparts in Bengal and Odisha also paid tributes to the tribal leader.

“Paying homage to the great freedom fighter & tribal leader ‘Dharti Aaba’ Bhagwan Birsa Munda on his Jayanti today. He founded a new religion & fought for rights of the tribes. His life serves as an inspiration

till date,” West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee tweeted.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said Munda’s struggle and sacrifice for the protection of tribal rights and the independence of the country will always be remembered.

Born in 1875 in present-day Jharkhand, Munda had challenged the British rule and is credited with mobilising tribals against the empire. He died in British custody at a tender age of 25 years.

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Patna, Nov 15 (IANS/ pti): The fourth term Katihar MLA Tarkishore Prasad was on Sunday named as the BJP legislature party leader, indicating he could be deputy chief minister in the new NDA government headed by Nitish Kumar.

Bettiah MLA Renu Devi has been made party’s deputy legislature party leader and she could be another deputy CM from the saffron party in the NDA ministry which will be sworn in Monday evening.

Prasad and Renu Devi’s names were announced at the BJP legislature party meeting here during the day.

The meeting was attended by senior BJP leader and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the party’s state in-charge Bhupendra Yadav, election in-charge Devendra Fadnavis, Union minister Nityanand Rai and state party chief Sanjay Jaiswal, among others.

Sushil Kumar Modi proposed name of Prasad as the party’s legislature party leader which was seconded by all the newlyelected MLAs. Prasad will perform the responsibility this time in place of Sushil Modi.

5

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur monDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

Pak used heavy artillery in 95 more die of COVID-19 in Delhi; positivity rate over 15% 250 register for Covid vaccine trial at AMU shelling in J&K: BSF officer

Crossword

Su doku

KAKURO

ilhu Vadeo spoke on behalf of CPO petitioners for the victims and called upon the public to stay united in their fight for justice.

Others who spoke at the meeting included CPO vice-presidents Vehuswu and Süneyi, Chozuba Range Public Organisation (CRPO) president Kutipra Lohe, Centre Chakhesang Public Organisation (CCPO) president Nehüsa Cükhamo, MGDVA convener Pushovoyi Nyekha and co-convener Vepozoyi.

The meeting was chaired by MGDVA coconvener Zhopopra, while vote of thanks was given

by PDMGDVA treasurer Rüdangoyi Shijoh.

(From p-1) The signatories pointed out that the then NCD president and general secretary had written to Dimapur deputy commissioner (DC), permission for holding the AGM but it was not granted due to pandemic.

However, the signatories said they were taken aback to learn that some individuals with vested interests had approached a court in Dimapur and had also obtained an interim order, whereby the election/selection/nomination was stayed. Nevertheless, as law abiding citizens and respect for due process of law, they said the commission kept the search/selection of new office bearers in abeyance till further order was passed by the court on August 13 vacating the Interim order of July 9. As a natural corollary to the interim/stay order being vacated, the commission convened a general meeting on August 22 and appointed the new team of office bearers for 2020-2025 tenure in the presence of councillors of the current tenure of various Dimapurbased tribal hohos, including presidents and officials of different tribal hohos, attending the NCD AGM. Therefore, they said the rejoinder by “some of the dissidents/vested interest group” as appeared in local dailies on November 13, was “nothing but an after thought, concocted and with mala-fide intention of misleading the people.”

No. 9747 Yesterday’s solution No. 9746

No. 4366 Yesterday’s solution No. 4365

No. 3390 Yesterday’s solution No. 3389

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Bengaluru, Nov 15 (IANS): Karnataka would seek more funds from the Centre to speed up relief and rehabilitation works in dozen of districts across the state that were ravaged by heavy monsoon rains and flash floods due to release of excess water from dams on major rivers, an official said on Sunday.

“Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa will seek more funds from the Centre during his official visit to Delhi after Diwali. A revised assessment of the damage caused by floods to agriculture and infrastructure in the state will be presented to Union Home Minster Amit Shah for more funds from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF),” a revenue official told IANS here.

The decision to seek more funds came a day after the Centre on Friday gave Rs 578 crore from NDRF for relief and rehab works in the flood-hit districts.

Bagalokote, Ballari, Belagavi, Bidar, Dharwad,

Gadag, Haveri, Hubballi, Kalaburagi, Koppal, Raichur and Yadgir in the state’s north and northwest regions were the worst affected by the incessant rains and flash floods. According to revised estimates, the state has suffered Rs 9,883-crore losses due to heavy rains from August to October as the southwest monsoon extended till October.

“As the state is eligible for Rs 1,306 crore relief aid from the NDRF, we hope the Centre will release the balance amount to speed up relief and rehab works as per the norms,” said the official.

“Release of excess water from dams across major rivers like Krishna and Bheema in the region and from neighbouring Maharashtra flooded villages/ towns and damaged rural infrastructure and crops

ahead of harvesting,” the official recalled.

Rural infrastructure, including roads, bridges, state highways, electric poles, telephone lines and houses were destroyed or damaged in the natural disaster.

The state disaster management authority has declared 173 talukas in 25 of the 30 districts across the southern state as floodaffected areas,” said the official. According to the state agriculture department, crops in 20.6-lakh hectares of farmlands were damaged in October as the southwest monsoon extended beyond September in the coastal, northwest and northern regions of the state.

The state government has already utilised Rs 2,385 crore for rescue and relief operations from the State Disaster Relief Funds (SDRF).

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complaint letter would be held accountable and bear every penny of damaged compensation to Maytas-Gayatri victims.

And in the event of their failing to make or guarantee the payment, MGDVA warned that it would resort to its own course of action and the above-mentioned persons would be held entirely responsible for any consequential social tension or hindrance to ongoing two-lane road projects, the resolution stated, which was read out by MGDVA general secretary Kuvesa Medeo at the meeting.

The meeting mandated

MGDVA to act as sole representative of the victims and accordingly authorized existing office bearers to coordinate with apex body CPO and petitioners to pursue the court case till justice was brought to doorsteps of the victims.

The resolutions were adopted after the meeting deliberated at length over pending compensation to the victims whose normal lives have been severely affected for nearly 10 years now due to random construction of 2-lane (Zunheboto-Chakhabama and Pfutsero-Phek Road in Phek district).

Earlier, Zhovehu Lohe, Vaprumu Demo and Zach-

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volunteered himself for Phase-3 trial of the Covaxin.

According to the protocol for the trial, “person participating in the trial should not have taken any licensed/experimental vaccine within four weeks before enrolment in the study”.

On perusal of his recent medical history by the Principal Investigator, it has come to light that a few days back, the ViceChancellor was administered influenza vaccine (Fluarex-Tetra), which is administered to him annually. Since his case falls in the exclusionary criteria according to the protocol for the vaccine trial, he may not be able to participate in the trials, and hence his name will not be included in the initial study period of the trial.

K-1839

MGDVA meet over pending compensation

breached the 5,000-mark for the first time and it crossed the 8,000-mark on Wednesday, also for the first time.

The sudden spike in cases comes amid festive season and rising pollution level. While Durga Puja celebrations ended on October 25 and Diwali on November 14, Chhath Pooja will be celebrated on November 20.

The National Centre for Disease Control in a report drafted recently had warned that Delhi needs to be prepared for about 15,000 fresh cases of COVID-19 per day taking into account the upcoming winter season-related respiratory problems, large influx of patients from outside and festive gatherings.

According to the Sunday bulletin, out of the total 16,654 beds in COVID hospitals, 7,913 are vacant.

DP-4988

Uri sectors of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, even as the Indian Army caused extensive damage to Pakistan Army’s infrastructure in retaliation.

Those killed in the Pakistani aggression include four armymen, a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan and six civilians.

“Pakistan fired heavy artillery without any provocation, but the Army and the BSF fought with bravery, gave a befitting response to them and many defences

single-day spike of 8,593 C OV I D - 1 9 c a s e s o n Wednesday. On Thursday, 104 fatalities, the highest in a day in over five months, were recorded. The city had registered 93 deaths on June 16. On Sunday, 95 more fatalities were recorded.

The 10-day average death rate in the city stands at 1.23 percent, the bulletin said. The total number of cases reported so far has climbed to 4,85,405.

As many as 1,258 COVID-19 deaths have been recorded in the national capital in the last 17 days, with experts attributing it to sudden surge in cases, deteriorating air quality, laxity by people in adhering to safety norms, among other factors. Coronavirus cases in Delhi have registered a sudden spike since October 28 when the daily infection

DP-4985

SRINAGAR, NOV 15 (PTI): Pakistani troops used heavy artillery during Friday’s unprovoked ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) in several sectors of Jammu and Kashmir, causing loss of lives and a huge damage to property on the Indian side, a top BSF officer said here on Sunday.

Five security forces personnel were among the 11 persons killed in multiple instances of ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the LoC between the Gurez and

Amit Shah chairs a meeting over the Covid-19 situation in the national capital with Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. (PTI)

A L I G A RH ( U T TA R PRADESH), NOV 15 (IANS): More than 250 applications have been received for the trial of Covid-19 vaccine ‘Covaxin’ at the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Hospital of the Aligarh Muslim University.

According to Prof Mohd Shameem, principal investigator, all applications will be screened as per the protocol and procedure laid down by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) before inclusion in the study/trial.

The resource persons from Bharat Biotech will visit AMU in the coming days for training of staff for the vaccine trials.

Shameem informed that the registration is moving satisfactory but there is an exclusion, as well as inclusion criteria, and other detailed procedural/ protocol formalities for the COVAXIN trial.

He said that written consent and other related formalities will be completed in due course of time.

He further informed that the Vice-Chancellor Prof Tariq Mansoor had

DP-4831

A burning house following cross-border shelling between Pakistani and Indian forces in Tehjain village in Neelum Valley on November 13, 2020.

(installations) of Pakistan were destroyed,” Inspector General of BSF, Kashmir Rajesh Mishra said.

He was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the wreath-laying ceremony of BSF Sub-Inspector Rakesh Doval, who was killed in the Pakistani firing.

Mishra said the Pakistani firing caused loss of lives and a huge destruction of civilian property on the Indian side of the fence.

He said the slain BSF man deserves the highest tributes as he fought despite getting injured in the shelling.

Mishra said about 250300 militants were ready at launchpads across the LoC to sneak into the Indian side.

“Security forces, including the BSF, have been successful in foiling their designs and will continue to do that,” he said.

The BSF officer also said human rights organisations should take note of the killings of civilians and the damage caused to civilian properties in the intense shelling by Pakistan.

New Delhi, Nov 15 (PTI): Delhi recorded 3,235 fresh COVID-19 cases, the lowest since October 26, taking the infection tally in the national capital to over 4.85 lakh on Sunday, while the positivity rate increased to 15.33 per cent.

Ninety-five more fatalities pushed the death toll to 7,614, authorities said.

The fresh coronavirus cases were detected from 21,098 tests conducted the previous day, the lowest since August 14, when 14,389 tests were done.

A health department official said the low number of tests was due to Diwali holiday. “However, most of the testing centres/dispensaries in the city remained opened,” he said.

Of the total tests conducted, 11,877 were rapidantigen tests, and 9221 RTPCR tests, the bulletin said.

Delhi recorded a positivity rate of 15.33 per cent amid the festive season and rising pollution in the city, according to the bulletin issued by the health department.

At 3,235, it was also the lowest number of fresh cases since October 26, when 2,832 cases were reported.

The national capital had recorded its highest

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international

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

7

Trump acknowledges Biden ‘won’ US election 15 Asian nations sign world’s biggest

WASHINGTON DC, NOV 15 (AGENCIES): President Donald Trump appeared to acknowledge publicly for the first time on Sunday that Democrat Joe Biden won the November 3 U.S. presidential election but asserted that it was “rigged”, reiterating his false claims of widespread voting fraud.

Biden defeated Trump by winning a series of battleground states that the Republican incumbent had won in 2016. The Democratic former vice president also won the national popular vote by more than 5.5 million votes, or 3.6 percentage points. Trump seemed to acknowledge Biden’s victory in a Twitter post in which he listed unsubstantiated allegations of fraud. “ H e wo n b e c a u s e the Election was Rigged,” Trump wrote on Twitter on Sunday morning, not referring to Biden by name.

“NO VOTE WATCHERS OR OBSERVERS allowed, vote tabulated by a Radical Left privately owned company, Dominion, with a bad reputation & bum equipment that couldn’t even qualify for Texas (which I won by a lot!), the Fake & Silent Media, & more!”

Trump’s campaign has filed lawsuits seeking to overturn the results in multiple states,

Donald Trump

though without success, and legal experts say the litigation stands little chance of altering the outcome of the election.

Election officials of both parties have said there is no evidence of major irregularities. Democrats and other critics have accused Trump of trying to delegitimize Biden’s victory and undermine public confidence in the American electoral process. Before the election, Trump had refused to commit to a peaceful transfer of power.

Tr ump’s refusal to concede did not change the fact that Biden was the president-elect, but it has stalled the government’s normal process of preparing for a new presidential administration. The Trump administration’s decision

not to recognize Biden as the winner has prevented Biden and his team from gaining access to government office space and to funding normally afforded to an incoming administration to ensure a smooth transition.

The federal agency in charge of providing those resources, the General Services Administration, has yet to recognize Biden’s victory. Biden has spent days huddled with advisers as he weighs Cabinet appointments, fields congratulatory calls from world leaders and maps out the policies he will pursue after being sworn in on Jan. 20. He is expected to continue meeting with advisers in private on Sunday.

Biden has won 306 votes in the state-by-state Electoral College system that determines the presi-

dential winner, according to Edison Research, far more than the 270 needed to secure a majority.

Trump earned the same number of electoral votes in 2016 over Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, a victory he has called a “landslide” despite the fact that she won the national popular vote by about 3 million ballots.

On Saturday, tens of thousands of Trump supporters ventured into Washington to echo his claims of election fraud. The “Million MAGA March,” referring to Trump’s campaign slogan of “Make America Great Again,” drew a crowd of flag-waving supporters to downtown Washington.

“Hundreds of thousands of people showing their support in D.C. They will not stand for a Rigged and Corrupt Election!” the president wrote on Twitter, though most crowd estimates were well short of Trump’s figure. Trump’s motorcade passed through the crowd on its way to his golf course in Virginia, producing cheers from demonstrators as the president waved from the back seat. The march was largely peaceful, though numerous scuffles broke out between Trump supporters and counter-protesters that

continued after dark. One person was stabbed and taken to a trauma center, the city’s fire and emergency medical services department said. The Washington Post reported the stabbing occurred amid a brawl that broke out after 8 p.m.

Dozens of Proud Boys, a far-right group, marched in the streets, some wearing helmets and ballistic vests, while members of the loose far-left movement known as Antifa staged their own counter-demonstrations.

The city’s police force arrested at least 10 people, including several who were charged with assault.

With his chances of reversing the outcome virtually extinguished, Trump has discussed with advisers potential media ventures that would keep him in the spotlight ahead of a possible 2024 White House bid, aides said. States are in the process of certifying their election results. The Electoral College meets to vote for the new president on Dec. 14.

Biden’s pick for White House chief of staff, Ron Klain, said this week that a rapid transition is necessary to ensure the government is prepared to roll out a potential coronavirus vaccine early next year.

trade deal; India withdrew last year

Vietnamese PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Minister Tran Tuan Anh applaud next to a screen showing Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Minister Zhong Shan in Hanoi. (AP/PTI)

NEW DELHI, NOV 15 (IANS): China and 14 other Asian countries have agreed to form the world’s largest free trade bloc with nearly a third of all economic activity.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, or RCEP, was signed virtually on Sunday on the sidelines of the annual summit of the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

“RCEP will soon be ratified by signatory countries and take effect, contributing to the post-COVID pandemic economic recovery,” said Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Prime Minister of Vietnam, which hosted the

ceremony as ASEAN chair, Al Jazeera reported. The report said RECP will take tariffs lower between member countries. It will account for 30 per cent of the global economy, 30 per cent of the global population and reach 2.2 billion consumers, according to Vietnam.In addition to the 10 ASEAN nations, the accord includes China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, but not the US. Officials said the accord leaves the door open for India, which dropped out due to fierce domestic opposition to its market-opening requirements, to rejoin the bloc, Al Jazeera said. The accord is a coup for China,

by far the biggest market in the region with more than 1.3 billion people, allowing Beijing to cast itself as a “champion of globalisation and multilateral cooperation” and giving it greater influence over rules governing regional trade, Gareth Leather, senior Asian economist for Capital Economics, said in a report.

Al Jazeera said the US is absent from RCEP and the 11-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) deal that US President Donald Trump pulled out of shortly after taking office. This leaves the world’s biggest economy out of two trade groups that span the fastest-growing region on earth.

Christian churches will be UN chief urges all countries to stop protected: Azerbaijani leader building new coal power plants turned over on Sunday.

Kalbajar is home to the well-known Dadivank monastery of the Armenian Apostolic Church. A day before the territory’s handover, workers removed many of the monastery’s sacred objects. Other residents in Kalbajar torched their own homes, fearing what will happen when Azerbaijani forces take over.

Azerbaijan is about 95% Muslim and Armenians fear that churches would be damaged or closed when it takes control of the territories. “President Aliyev said that Christian churches in Azerbaijani territories, which are returned to Azerbaijan in accordance with the trilateral statement, will also be properly protected by the state. Christians of Azerbaijan will have access to these churches,” said the statement from his office.

Hundreds, if not thousands, of combatants and civilians have been killed since fighting flared anew in late September.

UNITED NATIONS, NOV 15 (IANS): United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday called on all countries to stop building new coal power plants in his video message to the East Asia Summit 2020.

“To reach carbon neutrality by 2050, I am calling for all countries to stop building new coal power plants and for partners to stop financing them,” said the Secretary-General.

“Countries also need to put a price on carbon and end subsidies for fossil fuels.

Our response to the Covid19 crisis must be aligned with the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals. In all these efforts, you can count on the support of the United Nations system,” the UN chief added.

Guterres noted that efforts must be made to “use the Covid-19 recovery effort to build green climate-resilient economies and work towards carbon neutrality

Antonio Guterres

by 2050,” the Xinhua news agency reported.

“This will, incidentally, also drive the job creation that will reduce inequality and address the air pollution that is choking many Asian cities. I commend the recent decisions of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea committing to net zero emissions,” the SecretaryGeneral added.

The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a regional forum held annually by leaders of, initially, 16 countries in

the East Asian, Southeast Asian, South Asian and Oceanian regions, based on the ASEAN Plus Six mechanism. Membership expanded to 18 countries including Russia and the United States in 2011. Since its establishment, ASEAN has held the central role and leadership in the forum.

EAS meetings are held after the annual ASEAN leaders’ meetings, and plays an important role in the regional architecture of AsiaPacific.

Acting Pentagon chief tells US troops ‘time to come home’

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approach.

Tr u m p p r ev i o u s ly tweeted that he wanted troops returning home by Christmas.

His National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien later noted that Trump’s tweet was only an expression of desire, saying US troops in Afghanistan would be reduced to 2,500 level by early 2021.

The US and Taliban signed an agreement in late February, which called for a full withdrawal of the American military forces from Afghanistan by May 2021 if the militant group meets the conditions of the deal, including severing ties with terrorist groups.

Dear Friends, I am truly humbled and honoured for God's abundant blessings in this Bye-Election journey of the 14 th Southern Angami-I Assembly Constituency, 2020.

I sincerely convey my special thanks to all the electorates of the constituency and supporters for extending all immeasurable possible prayers and help. I am also immensely grateful to my family, friends, and loyal supporters who so generously contributed their time and effort to our campaign in winning the Bye-Election.

Christopher Miller

in American history.

Miller, a US special forces veteran who fought in this war, was appointed

by President Donald Trump on November 9 as Acting secretary of Defence to replace former Pentagon chief Mark Esper.

The message indicated that he might accelerate the pace to pull US troops out of Afghanistan.

Currently, there are around 4,500 US troops in the country.

Trump has long sought a full withdrawal from Afghanistan, but some of his senior aides from the military and the Pentagon suggested a condition-based withdrawal, a more cautious

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I owe a debt of gratitude to the Hon'ble Chief Minister, Hon'ble Ministers and Hon'ble Advisors of PDA Government of Nagaland for their courage displayed and their commitment to democratic ideals that have distinguished our party making it appealing and also all their sacrifices towards the success of this Bye-Election. Receiving the endorsement and nomination to represent the NDPP party ticket in the Bye election is one of the greatest honour of my life and I am deeply moved by the expression of confidence bestowed on my candidature by Hon'ble President, Respected Secretary General, all rank and files of NDPP. My sincere acknowledgement also goes to the State Hon’ble BJP President and his members, the PDA Alliances for unwavering support and participation.

To my fellow comrades Shri Kikovi Kirha of the NPF Candidate and Shri Seyievilie Peter Zashümo of the Independent Candidate, I humbly appeal you to join hands as we envision and aspire to work for the welfare and interest of the constituency. "Together we can have a meaningful journey."

I am humbled that you have chosen me to be a representative for all.

I assure that I will keep the faith that you have placed in me. I look forward to steadfastly work as your representative, to address and make a place where people of all ages can count on a better future.

DC-709

WASHINGTON, NOV 15 (IANS): Newly appointed US Acting Secretary of Defence Christopher Miller told the military that all wars must end and it is time to come home, according to a memorandum issued by the Pentagon.

“All wars must end.

Ending wars requires compromise and partnership.

We met the challenge: we gave it our all. Now, it’s time to come home,” Xinhua news agency quoted Miller as saying on Saturday in his first message to all employees of the Department of Defence.

The acting Pentagon chief also said that the US remains committed to ending the war against Al Qaeda since 2001 and is “on the verge of defeating” the terrorist group.

“This fight has been long, our sacrifices have been enormous, and many are weary of war - I’m one for them,” he said.

“But this is the critical phase in which we transition our efforts from a leadership to supporting role.”

The war in Afghanistan, which has caused about 2,400 US military fatalities, is the longest one

DP-5008

MOSCOW, NOV 15 (AP): The president of Azerbaijan has promised that Christian churches will be protected when the strongly Muslim country takes possession of areas formerly controlled by Armenians.

President Ilham Aliyev’s office said he made the promise in a telephone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is deploying peacekeeping forces in the areas under an agreement that ended six weeks of fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Ethnic Armenian forces had controlled NagornoKarabakh and sizeable adjacent territories since the 1994 end of a separatist war.

Fighting resumed in late September and ended with an agreement that calls for Azerbaijan to regain control of the outlying territories as well as allowing it to hold on to parts of Nagorno-Karabakh that it seized during the fighting. The first of the territories, Kalbajar, is being

I fervently pray to God Almighty to constantly guide and lead me and the people of the constituency in His will and plan.

Medo Yhokha Newly Elect NDPP Candidate

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8

sports

Slovakia beat Scotland 1-0 in nations league

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2020

Hamilton wins seventh F1 world title, equals Schumacher’s record

icised Oli McBurnie had the opportunity to convince his doubters and, although the Sheffield United striker showed plenty of endeavour, one chance eluded him after a heavy touch and another header was placed straight at goalkeeper Marek Rodak.

McBurnie was not the only culprit, Christie, Stuart Armstrong and Liam Palmer all failing to find the target.

Slovakia made the most of their only other chance before half-time as Minnesota United midfielder Gregus left Gordon flat-footed with a low 18-yard drive that took a deflection off Kenny McLean.

McLean came close to restoring parity with a powerful header that was pushed away superbly by Rodak.

While Patrik Hrosovsky fired just wide at the other end, Slovakia were defending their lead in a manner you would expect from a side who knew defeat would relegate them to League C. Leigh Griffiths was inches from adding more late drama to Scotland’s story, but the substitute striker’s thumping effort was touched wide by Rodak’s fingertips with the final kick off the ball as Slovakia secured their first group win.

ISTANBUL, NOV 15 (AGENCIES):Britain’s Lewis Hamilton choked back the tears as he won a record-equalling seventh Formula One world championship on Sunday and became the most successful driver in the sport’s history.

The Mercedes ace put on a masterclass in wet and slippery conditions to take a record-stretching 94th career win at a rollercoaster of a Turkish Grand Prix and secure the title with three races to spare.

Only Ferrari great Michael Schumacher has seven titles to his name, a number once thought unlikely ever to be matched, but most of the German’s records have passed to Hamilton.

S o c o m p l e t e wa s Hamilton’s domination that he lapped sole rival and team mate Valtteri Bottas with 12 laps to go on a nightmare afternoon for the spinning Finn who finished 14th.

Hamilton already had more race wins, pole positions and podium finishes than anyone in the history of the sport but, despite starting a season-low sixth, the 35-year-old was determined to add to the tally.

Mbappe could have signed for Barcelona IOC president in Tokyo to review for €100m, claims ex-Camp Nou director preparations for Olympics

Japan’s Takahashi smashes world best for 10k m race walk

BARCELONA, NOV 15 (AGENCIES): Kylian Mbappe could have been Neymar’s replacement at Barcelona, according to Javier Bordas, the former director of the Camp Nou club. Neymar moved to Paris Saint-Germain in a blockbuster €222 million (£198m/$263m) deal in the summer of 2017, leaving a void at Camp Nou. Bordas has explained that Barca investigated the potential of signing Mbappe but instead elected to go for Ousmane Dembele because technical secretary Robert Fernandez wanted to bring more width to their side.

“When we were to sign Dembele, agent Josep Maria Minguella called me to tell us Mbappe was within reach,” Bordas told Mundo Deportivo.

“I spoke with Josep Maria Bartomeu and he told me to look at him.

INZAI (JAPAN), NOV 15 (IANS): Japan’s Eiki Takahashi won the 10,000m race walk event at the Juntendo University Long Distance meeting by completing in a record time 37:25.21. Takahashi managed to hold off a strong challenge from 2018 World Race Walking Team Championships 20km winner Koki Ikeda, who finished second in 37:25.90 on Saturday, according to World Athletics. Ikeda had clocked a Japanese 5,000m race walk record of 18:20.14 - the fastest time in the world for 12 years - just three weeks ago on the same track.

Yuta Koga, the World University Games bronze medallist, was at the third spot with timing of 37:35.00.

Earlier in 2014 and 2015, Takahashi had set Asian records for the 10,000m race but both were relatively short-lived, as was his 1:18:03 Japanese record for the 20km race walk in 2015.

TRNAVA, SLOVAKIA, NOV 15 (AGENCIES): Slovakia ended Scotland’s nine-match unbeaten when a first-half goal from Jan Gregus gave them a 1-0 win in their Nations League match on Sunday between teams who both qualified for Euro 2020 amid drama last week.

Gregus scored his fourth goal for his country with a deflected shot in the 32nd minute to deny Scotland a chance to win League B Group 2, and promotion to the top league, with one match to spare.

Scotland, who won a penalty shootout against Serbia to qualify for Euro 2020, nearly equalised with the last kick of the game when Leigh Griffiths got in behind the Slovakia defence but goalkeeper Marek Rodak got his fingertips to the ball.

Scotland have 10 points from five games, four ahead of Czech Republic who host Israel later on Sunday.

Slovakia, who beat Northern Ireland in extra-time on Thursday, are bottom with four points.

Scotland failed to turn dominance into goals as their nine-game unbeaten run came to an end in Slovakia. Steve Clarke rested eight of the side that beat

Slovakia’s Jan Gregus celebrates after scoring a goal against Scotland. (reuters)

Serbia in the Euro 2020 play-off final on Thursday, as the Scots attempted to go 10 without defeat for the first time since 1924.

However, Jan Gregus’ deflected first-half drive was enough to prevent them sealing promotion with a game to spare.

Despite that, Scotland stay four points in the Nations League Group B2.

That lead could be cut when the Czech Republic host Israel later on Sunday, but Scotland win in Israel on Wednesday would seal promotion.

Kylian Mbappe

“I called Mbappe’s father and he told me that we was not going to go to Real Madrid because Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale were there and that instead he could go to Barca because Neymar had left.

“The president of Monaco preferred that he signed for Barcelona so as not to reinforced PSG, a

Achyuta Samanta elected as President of VFI

Achyuta Samanta

DIMAPUR: Professor Achyuta Samanta, MP Kandhamal & founder, KIIT & KISS has been elected unopposed as the president of Volleyball Federation of India (VFI).

He is the first person from Odisha to be elected for this highest and prestigious post of the Volleyball Federation of India.

With this, Prof. Samanta is entitled to be the member of the Olympics Association of India. It is not only a great honour for the Odisha Volleyball As-

This was always going to be about who best balanced the need to freshen up sides suffering the emotional and physical exhaustion following 120 minutes in Thursday’s play-off victories with the desire to tap into the elation of progress to the Euro 2020 finals.

While Slovakia caretaker head coach Stefan Tarkovic went with a degree of continuity, making only four changes, Clarke retained only Kieran Tierney, John McGinn and Ryan Christie.

It looked like the home

sociation, but also a matter of pride for Odisha. Raj Kumar of Punjab has been elected as executive vice president, while nine others were elected as vice presidents of VFI. Anil Choudhury of Rajasthan has been elected unopposed as Secretary General of VFI. The term of the newlyelected body is from 2020 to 2024. Prof. Samanta thanked the VFI for electing him as the president.

He assured to try his best to take the federation to a new height.

direct rival. And it could have been done for €100m (£90m/$118m).

“Rober t prefer red Dembele and Pep Segura supported him. The explanation was that Mbappe plays for himself and Dembele plays for the team, and since a winger like Ney had left, Robert preferred a winger more than a finisher.”

strategy might pay off best as Michal Duris gave recalled goalkeeper Craig Gordon an early test from range with the Scots defence looking like they had not recovered from those well-publicised celebrations to the tune of Saturday Night and Yes Sir, I Can Boogie.

The danger seemed to awaken the Scots’ dormant dancing feet and suddenly Clarke’s side were on top only to fail to trouble the scoring charts after creating a series of chances.

With Lyndon Dykes suspended, the much-crit-

TOKYO, NOV 15 (IANS): Inter national Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach arrived in the Japanese capital on Sunday for a four-day visit to review the preparations for the postponed Olympic Games with top Japanese officials, including Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

Tokyo 2020 organising committee had announced on Friday that Bach will be awarding the Olympic Order to former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the Japan Olympic Museum on Monday afternoon.

According to Kyodo news agency, Bach will meet with Suga on Monday.

He will next visit Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and then hold talks with the organising committee officials before attending a joint press conference with Tokyo 2020 president Yoshiro Mori. The IOC chief is also scheduled to

Thomas Bach

visit the Olympic village and the Olympic Stadium on Tuesday afternoon, as per the organisers.

The Olympics are set to be held from July 23 to August 8 next year after being postponed from 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic but leading health experts have, over the past few months, expressed doubts on whether the Games can be held without a vaccine for the virus.

However, Bach has said that he doesn’t expect countries to pull out of next year’s Olympics due to the pandemic and that athletes too won’t be barred if they test positive.

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton of Britain reacts after winning the Turkish Formula One Grand Prix (AP/PTI)

“Thank you so much guys...that’s for all the kids out there who dream the impossible. You can do it too man, I believe in you guys,” he whooped over the radio after taking the chequered flag.

The Briton finished a massive 31.6 seconds clear of Racing Point’s secondplaced Mexican Sergio Perez in a race run behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Seven is just unimaginable but when you work with such a great group of people and you really trust each other, there is just no end to what can do together,” said Hamilton, who has yet to sign a new deal for 2021. “I feel like I’m only just getting started.”

Hamilton was congratulated after parking up

by Perez, who still has no seat for 2021, and Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel who completed the podium in a race full of spins and changes of lead.

“I told him that it was very special for us because we can witness history being made today,” said Vettel, a four-times world champion with Red Bull and on the podium for the first time this year.

“There is no doubt Lewis is the greatest in terms of what he has achieved.” Bottas, who said over the radio four laps from the end that he wished the race was already finished, also went across to extend his hand.

Jannik Sinner youngest in 12 years to clinch ATP title

Jannik Sinner

SOFIA, NOV 15 (IANS): Italian teenager Jannik Sinner has become the youngest man to capture an ATP Tour title in more than 12 years after his title win at the Sofia Open. On Saturday, Sinner defeated Vasek Pospisil of Canada 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (3) in the summit clash to win his first ATP title. Pospisil was also attempting to capture his first ATP Tour crown.

“It is a great feeling ending the year with a tournament win,” said Sinner as per the ATP Tour website.

“Now I think the hard work is going to start once more…

I hope I am going to start

even better next year than I did this year,” he added.

The last player to have lifted a tour-level trophy at a younger age than Sinner was Kei Nishikori who had earned his maiden ATP Tour title as an 18-year-old at the 2008 Delray Beach Open. Sinner’s title run in Sofia completes a memorable 2020 campaign in which he claimed three top 10 wins and finished the year with a 19-11 record. As a result of his title run in the Bulgarian capital, he will crack the top 40 of the ATP Rankings for the first time on Monday at number 37.

Batra wins Capital Australians love to hate polarising Kohli: Paine Narinder Foundation National Award

SYDNEY, NOV 15 (PTI): Test captain Tim Paine says Australians have “polarising” opinions on India skipper Virat Kohli, one whom they love to hate as rivals but at the same time enjoy watching him bat as fans.

Australia and India are set to lock horns in a four-Test series with the opening Day-Night game in Adelaide starting December 17.

“I get asked a lot of questions about him, he’s just another player to me it doesn’t really bother me.

There’s not really a relationship there with him to be fair, I see him at the toss and play against him and that’s about it,” Paine told ABC Sport.

“With Virat it is a funny one, we love to hate him but we also love to watch him bat as cricket fans. He certainly is polarising in that type of scenario. We love watching him bat, but we don’t like seeing him score too many runs.”

The last time the two sides met tempers flared with both skippers having a go at each other at every given opportunity. The duo even had to be separated by

Virat Kohli and Tim Paine during the Perth Test in 2018.

the on-field umpires on a couple of occasions.

“Australia and India, it’s a heated competition and he’s obviously a competitive person and so am I, so yeah there were a few occasions when we had words but that wasn’t because he was the captain and I was the captain, it could have been anyone,” Paine said.

Comparing his onfield battle with Kohli to the likes of Joe Root and Ben Stokes, the wicketkeeper-batsman said it is always a heated affair

when the best players are out in the middle.

“There is always a bit more tension when a player is as good as he is, it’s the same when you play against England, its Joe Root or a Ben Stokes,” Paine said.

“It’s often the best player is the one that your team goes up a little bit, the intensity goes up when the best players in the world come out to the crease.”

Last year, India had stunned Australia 2-1 to win their maiden Test series Down Under and

Paine feels the rivalry between the two sides intensifies with every passing series.

“I’m looking forward to everything to be honest, it’s a huge series. They beat us here last time obviously with a different team, and as I said the rivalry between the two countries building all the time...,” Paine said. “... I think any time you get to test yourself against the best is something that you look forward to as players and as a team, and we certainly are.”

NEW DELHI, NOV 15 (IANS): Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra was on Sunday awarded with the Capital Foundation National Award 2020. Batra has been recognised for his contribution spread across four decades in the field of sports.

Congratulating Batra, Hockey India President Gyanendro Ningombam said: “Given his role in professionalising sports administration in India and his dedication towards the upliftment of all sports, it is a much deserved recognition.” “Indian hockey has also benefited under his earlier leadership as Hockey India president with him dedicating more than three decades of his life towards creating a new path for the sport with his popular initiatives that have helped in reviving the sport and has resulted in India truly embracing the hockey revolution,” he added.

Batra was himself a former hockey player during his youth. However, his major involvement with sport came after he started his administrative journey

Narinder Batra

by becoming the president of the Jammu & Kashmir Hockey Association in 1997, a position he held till 2011.

He was also the treasurer of the Delhi & District Cricket Association between 2005 and 2013, and also went on to become the secretary general of Hockey India after its inception, and also served as its president from 20142016.

In November 2016, he became the first and the only Indian to lead the International Hockey Federation (FIH) as its president.

In June 2019, Batra was also elected as a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) after being among the 15 out of 207 NOC members of the IOC to get nominated for the post.

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