April 22, 2020

Nagaland Post

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Vol XXX No. 135

DIMAPUR, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2020 Pages 6 (Online Edition)

Limited economic activity starts in Northeast

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NORTHEAST, PAGE 5

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NEW DELHI, APR 21 (AGENCIES): As the number of novel coronavirus cases in India increased to 1,329 in last 24 hours, the total count of Covid-19 cases the country surged to 18,985 on Tuesday, according to the latest data from Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Along with that, the country has recorded 603 deaths

Nagaland govt unable to tackle pandemic: NPF

DIMAPUR, APR 21 (NPN): Naga People’s Front (NPF) has once again questioned the state government’s handling of the present pandemic and claimed that loopholes in its action towards tackling the pandemic was being discovered almost every day. NPF through its press bureau said that the government was unable to deliver as per the desire and expectations of the people despite cooperation by the general public. Unlike other days, NPF said there were sufficient funds both from the Centre as well as through the generous donations of various individuals and organisations. However, it said that the state government was “unable to tackle the pandemic effectively.� Alleging that the state government has proven its “incompetency� in many ways to tackle the present pandemic, the NPF maintained that the longer the present government hold on the reigns, the more problem it would be for the general public. Further, NPF said that though national lockdown officially started only on March 20, 2020, the warning bell of coronavirus was

since the outbreak after 44 deaths were reported since yesterday. So far, India has 15,112 active cases. There are also 77 foreign nationals who are affected by the virus, the ministry said. Health Ministry joint secretary Lav Aggrawal said that at least 3,252 people recovered from the infection

on Tuesday morning, showing that the recovery rate has gone up to over 17.47%, an improvement over 14.75% on Monday. Aggrawal also added, “61 additional districts from 23 States/UT have not reported any fresh cases in last 14 days. 4 new districts have been included in the list-Latur, Osmanabad, Hingoli & Washim in Maharashtra.� However, as a good news, all coronavirus posi-

tive cases in Goa and Manipur are now negative, informed respective state officials. Moreover, the health ministry added that Covid19 growth has declined in Odisha and Kerala. Global cases over 2.4 million: Across the world, the total number of novel coronavirus cases have shot past 2.4 million with over 1.65 million deaths, according to the latest Johns Hopkins University data.

Nagaland COVID-19: Result of 81 awaited STATUS REPORT AS ON APRIL 21, 2020 NORTH EAST CONFIRMED RECOVERED DEATH Nagaland Nil Nil Nil Assam 35 19 1 Manipur 2 2 Nil Meghalaya 11 Nil 1 Mizoram 1 Nil Nil Arunachal Pradesh 1 1 Nil Tripura 2 1 Nil DIMAPUR, APR 21 (NPN): State principal secretary Home, Abhijit Sinha in his daily briefing on Tuesday informed that 537 samples of suspected COVID cases were sent for testing so far, out of which 103 samples were sent on April 21. He said the results of 456 samples received were all negative while results of 81 samples were awaited. According to Health department, 996 persons were screened on April 21 and 120 persons were under facility quarantine.

INTERNATIONAL, PAGE 6

States asked to stop using rapid test kits for 2 days NEW DELHI, APR 21 (AGENCIES): Indian Council of Medical Research Tuesday told states to stop using the newlydistributed Chinese rapid testing kits (RTPCR) to detect coronavirus for the next two days after huge variations in the accuracy of results were noticed across regions. The RTPCR test is the gold standard for frontline test for Covid-19. Head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at ICMR Raman R Gangakhedkar said: “We got a complaint of less detection from one state. So we spoke to three states and found that a lot of variation is there in the accuracy of test results of positive samples, in some places it is 6 per cent while others it is 71 per cent.� “This is not a good thing because when such a huge variation is seen we need to investigate further even if it is the first generation of the test. This disease is only 3.5month-old so all technologies will be refined over time but we can’t ignore these findings,� he said. He added that over the next two days the ICMR will be sending eight expert teams on the field to validate the results. “Hence, all states are requested to not use the rapid testing kits on the field for the next two days,� Gangakhedkar said. Earlier on Tuesday, the Rajasthan government stopped using the China-made rapid testing kits for coronavirus after they delivered inaccurate results. ICMR had also received complaints related to repeat testing of patients in West Bengal as the RT-PCR kits were not working properly. India procured five lakh rapid antibody testing kits from China last week and these were distributed to states for the districts with a high burden of the infection.

To get PPEs from China

Paiwang Konyak chairs a meeting with Mon district ofďŹ cials. (NP)

Correspondent

KOHIMA, APR 21 (NPN): Transport, Civil Aviation & Railways and Land Resources minister Paiwang Konyak reached out to Nagas of Myanmar by donating a sum of Rs. 1 Lakh, while doctors of Mon district hospital donated medicines for Naga brethrens in the neighbouring country. The donation was handed over to Konyak Union (KU) through which the cash and medicines will reach the Nagas of Myanmar via Konyak Baptist Bumeinok Bangjum. Informing this to Nagaland Post, the minister said the money and medicines were handed over to KU representatives during the

second phase of review meeting on COVID-19 held at Mon town on Tuesday. According to him, the meeting also decided not to return the single ambulance meant for Mon district to Kohima. Paiwang briefed the meeting about the decision of the State cabinet on vehicular movement of essential and non-essential goods and said trucks would be disinfected at Tizit check point before entering Mon town. The meeting also deliberated on ways at working out modalities to bring back students of Mon district stranded in and outside the State in consultation with district administration and villagers. (Cont’d on p-3)

In a significant development, Mon district will be getting personal protective equipment (PPE) kits and N-95 masks from China probably within this week. Initiated by Mon District Task Force, Mon will be the first district to be receiving such a consignment from China in the state. Sources informed Nagaland Post that the consignment comprising of 90 PPE kits and 500 N-95 masks was procured from District Task Force fund amounting to Rs 2.90 lakh. Meanwhile, Mon district hospital had returned some PPE kits to the Health department as these were was not as per specifications. According to sources, 1,143 PPE kits were returned, which included 33 HIV kits (Medizone Surgicals), 45 PPE kits (Om Sai Enterprise), 33 disposal PPE kits (Kanson Overseas Ltd), 46 PPE kits (Allwinmed Medical Equipment Solution), 150 PPE HIV kits (Sterimed Medical Devices Pvt Ltd), 247 both side white paper/plastic (no label), 163 transparent plastic inside blue inside (no label), 221 half transparent half paper (no label), and 205 white pullover (no label). It also included 300 Venus V-44+ Class FFP1S masks (Venus Safety & Health Pvt Ltd), 400 Frontier Grit FFP1S (Midas Safety Pvt Ltd) and 50 N-95 flat fold type, AFF-N95 (Balaji).

Nagaland’s ďŹ rst COVID-19 patient recovering at GMCH Spl. Correspondent

GUWAHATI, APR 21 (NPN): Amidst speculations that Nagaland’s first COVID-19 patient has been tested negative recently, it has been confirmed that the news report was incorrect and that he was confirmed as COVID-19 positive even after the second test. Sources at GMCH told Nagaland Post that the patient was recuperating and shifted out of the ICU to the isolation ward where his condition continues to be stable. It may be recalled that the patient, a resident of Dimapur was admitted to Guwahati Medical College Hospital (GMCH) after being referred by Zion Hospital Dimapur on April 11. He was admitted to GMCH in a serious condition and when his condition worsened, he was taken to ICU. The patient was tested for COVID-19 the next day, on April 12 and the result was positive for the virus. A second test was done on April 17 and that too confirmed he was COVID-19 positive, sources said. The sources said the patient was shifted to the isolation ward of the hospital on Monday night after his health condition improved. The sources said the condition of the patient remained stable. “Seeing that the patient’s condition has improved, we shifted him to isola-

tion ward last night. We’ll carry out another test on him on Day 14 from the date he first tested positive (on April 12),� confirmed a senior GMCH official. That would mean that the patient will again undergo the third test for COVID-19 on April 26. It was learnt that social media went viral with fake news that the patient was tested COVID-19 negative after the first test. The patient’s COVID-19 status has been included under Assam though he is a resident of Dimapur who was only referred to Guwahati. Officials here maintained that the patient’s status should have been included under Nagaland since he had the symptoms for COVID-19 before coming to Guwahati. Meanwhile, Nagaland principal secretary Home Abhijit Sinha has informed that in the light of the patient from Dimapur tested positive for COVID-19 in Guwahati, containment of Marwari Patti and Murga Patti in Dimapur continues. He also said sur veillance teams in Dimapur have visited and screened 2347 persons covering 353 households as of April 20,2020. Altogether, 281 samples of persons in Dimapur, connected with the positive case, have been tested from April 12, 2020, in Dimapur ,and all were tested negative for COVID-19.

law-breakers warned of strict action

Correspondent

KOHIMA, APR 21 (NPN): Nodal officer for COVID 19, PHQ Kohima and IGP range, Limasunep said a strict order had been issued to the entire rank and file of State security forces to maintain restraint and to be empathetic, sensitive and adopt a humanitarian approach during the current crisis caused by COVID19 pandemic. He however warned that blatant violation of laws would be dealt with sternly. Speaking to Nagaland Post at his office chamber here on Tuesday, Limasunep also regretted the recent alleged incidents of police highhandedness at Dimapur and Wokha, but added that both the cases had been amicably settled between the parties involved. He said order had been issued to policemen asking

them to be more restraint in their conduct as the current situation was not just about law & order but a humanitarian crisis, while still maintaining public order. The nodal officer said company commanders had been instructed to supervise jawans and that district police would have to be more sensitive and adopt humanitarian approach to people in distress, but warned that blatant violation of rules and laws would be dealt with as per the law. He appealed to citizens to stay at home unless there was extreme necessity like buying essential commodities and medical reasons, as had been directed by the State government, insisting that people should abide by the law. Limasunep informed this correspondent that currently 27,000 police men

and women were involved in various duties across the State, including in hospitals, for carrying blood samples to various testing centres, in quarantine centres, containment duties, community policing and ensuring lockdown. Being par t of the government machinery in combating COVID-19, he claimed that all efforts were being made to ensure that all the advisories of the government were followed strictly. N P F WA p r e p a r e PPEs: Nagaland Police Family Welfare Association, which comprises wives and children of police personnel, is making personal protective equipments (PPEs), re-purposed from ponchos used as raincoats by police personnel and donated to Naga Hospital Authority, Kohima (NHAK). (Cont’d on p-3)

Heavy rain, hailstorm lash Nagaland Wildlife crime bureau warns poachers

This is it!

(L) A house damaged by hailstorm in Kiphire district (R) Villagers in Merangkong clearing the debris.

K Y M C

nagalandpostofďŹ cial

Paiwang reaches out to Nagas of Myanmar Police force ordered to maintain restraint;

(Cont’d on p-3)

“Aah. So you’ve started a corona garden on the rooftop?�

SL postpones parl elections to June 20

nagalandpostofďŹ cial

DIMAPUR/KIPHIRE/ TULI, APR 21 (NPN): As forecast by the Met department of heavy rainfall activity in the North Eastern region, several parts of Nagaland on Tuesday morning witnessed heavy downpour

and hailstorm. In Kiphire district, heavy hailstones with strong winds damaged properties and crops. Villages like Salomi, Wongti, New Wongti,Penkim and other parts Pungro Town under

Kiphire district were affected. However, there were no reports of any casualty. Dimapur also witnessed heavy downpour on Tuesday during the wee hours and witnessed widespread drizzle during the

day. Heavy rainstorm also battered several villages under Mokokchung district. In Merangkong village several houses were damaged including the Church by the storm coupled with heavy rain. On April 19, houses and crops at Sungratsu, Mopungchuket and Chungtia villages were also destroyed by heavy rain accompanied by hailstorm. Similar incidents were reported across several parts of the state. Met department predicted heavy rainfall activity, between April 20-23 in parts of East and North East India. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the incursion of moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal was expected over North East and adjoining east India for the next 3-4 days.

reau in charge has, however, affirmed that strict action KOHIMA, APR 21 (NPN): would be taken against any Following the videos and law breaker. photos of hunters posing with slain wildlife went viral State department of on social media platforms, the state wildlife crime bu- Environment, Forests and reau has cautioned that strict Climate Change Tuesday action would be initiated informed that the four suspects, who were seen celagainst the defaulters. Wildlife crime bureau ebrating ‘lockdown festival’ in-charge, Tokaho Kinimi, in a viral video that depicted said that recent video of in- “ruthless killing� of wild dividuals with slain python animals including Barking was traced to Zunheboto deer and large Indian civet district, but there was delay cat had surrendered. In a statement, the chief in reaching out to them due to the lockdown. Tokaho wildlife warden said that the said another video had been four suspects identified as traced to Nihoshe village un- Imchainba of Longkhum der Aghunato sub-division. village, Osungkum N Jamir He said that both cases of Unger village, Yanger were under investigation Jamir of Unger village and and those responsible would Opangtemsu of Asangma be penalised under Wildlife village surrendered before Protection Act 1972. Stating wildlife wing of the departthat there was an increase in ment on April 21, 2020. According to the chief wildlife hunting activities due to the lockdown, the bu- wildlife warden, the suspects Correspondent

4 suspects surrender

surrendered after the department conducted investigation into the incident and zeroed down on the suspects seen in the video. Meanwhile, Wildlife conservationist RĂźvuotuo Belho, who owns mini zoo in Kohima, lamented the killing of wildlife by some people despite the government orders warning of serious action. He said that lockdown should not be an excuse to kill the animals and flaunt them on social media platforms. Kohima village youth organisation (KVYO) stated that the village was keeping a strict vigil on all the hunters and people moving around its jurisdiction without valid reason. Kigwema village community reserve, which had been keeping a check on hunting, has also cautioned that strict actions would be taken against the defaulters. K Y M C

2

state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2020

District-wise reports on COVID-19 pandemic preparedness

DIMAPUR: As the nationwide COVID-19 pandemic lockdown enter 28 days, Nagaland state government and its agencies are keeping vigil to enforce the lockdown. The government and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have also been taking all preventive measures to contain the spread of the deadly virus. Various directives, appeals and information have been issued for public interest.

Longleng District

Children after receiving mid day meal food grains.

Students receive mid-day meal: Phom Community Development Society (PCDS) under Phom Baptist Christian Association which is the implementing agency of mid day meal in Longleng district delivered the mid day meal consignment to every school under the district. In a release, PCDS said that the meal was distributed with the help of churches under PBCA and district administration. Despite the lockdown, it was necessary to reach out to the student beneficiaries in such a time as this when

villages gates are sealed with no movements allowed, stated the release. Since all the schools are closed, PBCA said the students were given food grain and cash following proper government directives on social distancing and necessary guidelines. PBCA also informed that teachers from all the schools under the district contributed few kilos of food grain from their share to the needy and differently able people in the villages who are economically affected by the lockdown.

Mon District

Sample collection booth installed at DHM.

Walk-in-sample Kiosk at DHM: As part of COVID-19 strategy under “Mon against COVID-19”, the Deputy Commissioner, Mon, Thavaseelan K on April 20 announced the installation of a sample collection booth, also known as Walk-In- Sample Kiosk (WISK) at District Hospital, Mon. According to DIPR report, the project was initiated and fully sponsored by the district administration. The deputy commissioner said the Kiosk was constructed keeping in mind the safety of the health workers in the fight against COVID-19. Thavaseelan said the Kiosk would act as a physical barrier between the patient and the health worker during the sample collection for COVID-19 which requires close contact between them, thus minimising the chance of exposure to infection. This kiosk will also reduced the number of PPE being used, as the doctor collecting the sample from inside the kiosk does not require donning a complete PPE set, stated the report.

Dimapur District DC notifies on supply of food grains: In pursuance to the government of India, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution letter, the deputy commissioner of Dimapur Anoop Khinchi has granted permission for supply of food grains under OMSS to charitable/non-governmental organisations etc. engaged in relief operations/running relief camps for migrant labourers/vulnerable groups due to the present lockdown condition. According to DIPR report, the DC has informed that food grains would be supplied at a uniform rate of Rs. 21 per kg for wheat and Rs. 22 per kg for rice and there will be no upper limit for allocation of food grain to each such organisation from any FCI depot. However the quantity should not be less than 1 MT at a time. It was also informed that whoever wants to avail the scheme can apply through the office of the Deputy Commissioner Dimapur. DC Dimapur has directed the Assistant Director of Supply, Dimapur and District technical team to ensure that the additional food grains under PMGKAY is issued/distributed by the FPS to the targeted group (PHH&AAY beneficiaries) through ePOS device without fail and to be alerted immediately incase of technical problem, the

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Should social media be under legal scanner ? 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

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

A

B

A Yes. B No. C Can’t Say.

C

82% 9% 9%

Next poll

Q: Should the govt further

extend the lockdown?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST April 22

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Cloudy with a t-storm or two 32 21 Aizawl

A morning thunderstorm or two 26 18

Guwahati An afternoon t-storm or two Imphal

A p.m. t-storm in spots

29 18 26 16

Itanagar Cloudy with a t-storm or two 23 17 Shillong

A heavy t-storm in the p.m.

20 12

Kohima

Cloudy with a thunderstorm

20 14

Dimapur A thunderstorm in spots Mkg

A t-storm around in the p.m.

Tuensang A thunderstorm in spots

29 18 21 14 15 10

A t-storm around in the p.m.

21 16

Zunheboto A t-storm around in the a.m.

18 13

Wokha

More state news on Page 5 K Y M C

Wokha District

System Integrator (Integra) & NIC Dimapur. Stating that the distribution of additional food grains at 5kg/beneficiary/month Free of Cost under PMGKAY Scheme is meant for members of AAY and PHH Ration Card Holders, DC in an official letter addressed to Assistant Director of Supply, maintained that there is clear directive from the Ministry of Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution, New Delhi that all states to ensure the food grains are distributed through ePOS devices and details of each and every transaction should be reflected at Annavitran Portal. DC further cautioned that any laxity in the following directives will be viewed seriously and action as deemed fit will be taken without any further notice. AHODs, HoDs, HoO asked to report: DC Dimapur Anoop Khinchi has informed all Administrative Heads of Department, Heads of Department and Heads of Offices of respective departments in the district to be in their respective headquarters from April 21. According to DIPR report, in case of any AHOD/HOD/HoO presently not in his/her respective headquarters have been informed to immediately contact the respective deputy commissioner and obtain necessary passes/clearance for proceeding towards his/her headquarters.

Peren District

ZYON concern over DHP; appeals for transparency: Zeme Youth Organization Nagaland (ZYON) on April 20 carried out its second “look-see” by visiting Peren Town as part of COVID-19 preparedness. A press release by ZYON joint secretary, Keyi Sephe stated that the visit was carried out to ensure that basic needs of the people and commodities are sold as per the price rate issued by Peren district administration. While thanking the service of the medical staff of District Hospital Peren (DHP), ZYON also expressed concern over the “poor infrastructure” of the hospital despite it being declared district hospital a decade back. ZYON also informed that it members attended the review meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Peren Sentiwapang Aier and attended by Leader of Opposition, T.R. Zeliang, head of departments and various frontal leaders. ZYON thanked the district administration, police department and medical department for all their selfless service in combating COVID-19 pandemic. It also requested the concerned authority to maintain transparency in regard to COVID-19 relief fund sanctioned for Peren district. Meanwhile, ZYON has urged the public to cooperate and follow safety guidelines and precautionary measures issued by the government.

It was also informed that the Kiosk will be disinfected with sodium hypochlorite spray after each collection. Training on ‘contact listing & tracing’: District administration Mon on April 20 conducted one day training on “contact listing & tracing” for COVID-19 District Control Room/War Room personnel, police and frontline health workers. According to DIPR report, the resource person, Dr. Kumkiuba explained the contact listing and tracing plan for Mon district. He said the main objective was to trace all suspected persons who have come in contact with COVID-19 positive patients and quarantine/isolate them as the case may be. Dr. Kumkiuba said contact listing and tracing was critical to contain the spread of the virus. It may be noted that Mon District COVID-19 “War Room” comprising of the official from district administration/ police/health and family welfare and various line departments of the district was set up on April 10 Four Sub-Divisional “War Room” was also setup at Tobu, Aboi, Tizit and Naginimora Sub-Divisions to function as an auxiliary of and in tandem with the district COVID-19 “War Room”.

HoDs asked to obtain clearance: In view of the total lockdown due to COVID19, Deputy Commissioner & Chairman District Task Force for COVID-19 Wokha, Orenthung Lotha has directed all the Head of Offices (HoDs) under Wokha district, presently not in the district headquarters, to obtain necessary clearance from the DC Wokha to proceed to the station for duty. DC issues guidelines; shops to remain open till 2 p.m: Deputy Commissioner & Chairman District Task Force COVID19 for Wokha district, Orenthung Lotha has issued order under Sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Epidemic Diseases Act 1897 applicable throughout Wokha district from April 20 till further notice. According to DIPR report, the DC has exempted officials/ staff/ person belonging to medical/ police/ district administration/ paramilitary/ media/ fire& emergency services/ postal services/ NIC/ DDMA/ Power/ PHED/ food & civil supplies/ treasury and accounts/ forest/ telecom services/ AH & veterinary/ social welfare on official duty and vehicles carrying essential commodities with prior permission/ emergency medical cases from the purview of this order. In view of the harvesting and sowing season, DC has also exempted farming operations by farmers and farm workers, procurement of agricultural production, movement of agricultural machinery, etc. while maintaining social distancing. The partial modified guidelines are

as follows: 1. Grocery Shops/Bakeries/Vegetable vendors and business establishments dealing with essential commodities will henceforth be permitted to open only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays during the lockdown period. The shops will remain open from 07:00 AM to 2:00 PM only; 2. Only one member from each family shall be permitted to come out of their homes for procurement of essential commodities from the market within the given time; 3. All vehicular movement of nonessential nature is prohibited; no private vehicular movement will be allowed except for purchase of essential commodities and medical emergencies. Further, no private or commercial vehicles will be allowed to carry passengers; 4. The colony council/village councils will regulate the operation of shops selling essential commodities in their respective localities & villages as per the given timing and ensure due compliance to the advisories of the Government with special reference to social distancing of at least 1 metre and compulsorily wearing masks in public places; 5. All pharmacies are advised to remain open 24x7 and business transaction hours of all Banks in Wokha District will be from 9:00 AM to 03:00 PM on all working days. 6. The public are advised not to resort to panic buying or hoard essential items since adequate stock is available.

Mokokchung District

Imkong Imchen interacting with village leaders and others. (NP)

Imkong raises concerns over COVID-19 preparedness: Mokokchung District Task Force on COVID-19 held a review meeting Tuesday to take stock of the situation and preparedness of the district in the fight against the pandemic. During the meeting, Imkong L Imchen, MLA, who is also a member of the Task Force Mokokchung district, raised concerns over the preparedness to prevent spread of the deadly virus. Imkong while expressing concern over the status of medical departments across the state said though the state government has claimed that it was prepared for any eventuality the ground reality paints a different picture. The MLA also raised issues of burial facility of COVID-19 victims, to which the deputy commissioner informed that a meeting has been scheduled to discuss the

matter. Imkong also spoke on resuming agricultural activity in the district particularly in the villages and urged the district administration and the concerned department to facilitate for the same. The MLA also assured to extend all possible help to the district task force in the fight against COVID-19. The DC Mokokchung also took note of the various suggestions and propositions of the MLA especially with regard to inclusion of representatives from various political parties in the district task force. Earlier in the day, the MLA held a series of consultative meetings with village leaders and civil society organisations at his private residence. After thorough deliberation, the MLA took note of various points and shared those points at the meeting of the District Task Force. (Correspondent)

Kohima District NAYO appeals to state government: Northern Angami Youth Organization (NAYO) has appealed to the state government and the concerned authority to relax certain outlets selling basic amenities in order to cater to needs of the people. In a statement, NAYO president Roko Angami and general secretary Ruokuoneitso Kire suggested allowing hardware stores, garage and tyreworkshops etc. to open once or twice a week during shopping hours, which would help farmers. It also suggested opening of shops selling essential items on all working days, within the specified time, stop hoarding. While seeking cooperation of all and urging all to abide by the lockdown guidelines, NAYO said safety of people was their primary concern. It therefore urged all affiliated units to abide by the rules and guidelines set by the government. NAYO also acknowledged all frontline warriors, doctors, nurses, police, district administrations, municipal councils and all organizations steadfastly and selflessly sacrificing their lives for the welfare and wellbeing of the people. It also acknowledged the state government’s effort in fighting this pandemic.

Tuensang District

Meeting held for partial relaxation at Shamator: As per the directive of the state government on partial relaxation of the lockdown, a emergency meeting at DB’s Court Shamator which was attended by Shamator base members of Task Force for Covid-19 along with representatives from YTC, YAA, Chambers of Commerce Shamator, Public Forum Shamator, Ward Leaders, DBs and GBs. According to DIPR report, the meeting convened by district administration was chaired by ADC Shamator, Lankonsen Tsanglao deliberated on the details of the partial relaxation. In the meeting, the administration cautioned all present to maintain strict vigil and follow the directives of the government.

Kiphire District

NMC partners with H&FW to provide for OPD services in Kohima: Nagaland Medical Council (NMC) has partnered with the Health and Family Welfare (H&FW) department to provide OPD service in Kohima in the backdrop of the Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) being converted to a COVID Hospital. The OPD service will start with effect from April, 21 2020 in the following locations: Place

Time

Para Medical Training In- 10:00 AM to 01:00 PM stitute (PMTI), Kohima (Monday to Friday) Agri Forest Sub Centre. 10:00 AM to 01:00 PM Kohima (Monday to Friday) According to DIPR, healthcare professionals, who have volunteered their service during the COVID-19 pandemic, were being utilized to offer this service. The services will also be expanded to other locations in a phased manner, depending on the availability of the volunteers. In this regard, any healthcare professional who wishes to volunteer have been asked to send a message mentioning name, age/sex, qualification, and address to the following WhatsApp number: 940224 5812. It said that the services was complementary to the arrangement of specialist consultation in Urban Primary Health Centres, routine services continuing in all other non- COVID health centres, and PMJAY services in empanelled private hospitals. Red Cross volunteers training: A training programme for the Red Cross volunteers was held at Red Cross Conference Hall, Kohima and attended by 25 volunteers. According to DIPR report, Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, Gregory Thejawelie urged them to give unrelenting support as and when need needed during this COVID-19 pandemic. In the training, Dr. Hoito Chishi spoke on “introduction on COVID-19”, Supongmenla Jamir, consultant NUHM spoke on “district COVID-19 strategy”, Avikali Jakhalu, DPM Kohima gave a presentation on “district Microplan on COVID-19” and Dr. Toshimongla QA (DPM) gave a presention on “doffing & donning of PPE”.

BUFFET Postponement

CMO Kiphire conducts ‘sensitising tour’: A “sensitising tour” for Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) and Anganwadi workers including health units and village council members under Kiphire district was carried out on April 17-18. A press release from office of CMO Kiphire stated that the medical team led by DPO (RCH/UIP), Dr. Pewezo Khalo distributed hand sanitizer, masks, and gloves to all the ASHAs and Anganwadi workers in the villages, including health units. The team also distributed masks to village guards manning their respective village gates. During the visits, the DPO interacted with health workers and village council leaders and briefed them of their duty in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Pewezo instructed them to sensitise families and others about the virus and asked them to set up a hand washing facility in their respective houses. He also emphasised on hygiene and sanitation, including the practice of social distance, cleanliness, and social etiquette of spitting, sneezing and coughing during the interaction. DCM, Seli also interacted with ASHAs and anganwadi workers in all the villages and directed the ASHAs to visit 25 households per day. He asked them to report to the nearest health unit if any suspected cases were detected. The anganwadi workers was also asked to carry out home to home visits in their villages and sensitise families about the importance of hand washing, cleanliness, and hygiene. The medical team covered 14 villages, including Kiusam circle, Pungro circle, and Longmatra town in a span of two days, informed the release.

Dear well Wishers, We regret to inform you that the buffet organized by Outreach Gospel Harvest Ministry scheduled to take place at Dimapur Lotha Hoho ki on 25th April 2020, has been postponed due to present crisis. The new date will be intimated as and when situation normalized. (T.R JAMES LOTHA), Director, OGHM, Dimapur Contact No.8729882284

Phek District ADC Pfutsero informs on relaxation order: As per the latest relaxation order issued by the government of Nagaland, Additional Deputy Commissioner Pfutsero, Phuleshe K. Yepthomi has allowed certain activities under the lockdown measures. The ADC has also informed that all other restrictions which were in place earlier will continue. Following activities have been permitted: Vehicles carrying goods and essential commodities; shops and outlets dealing with food grains, food items, vegetables and daily use items will be allowed to open; E-Commerce for essential commodities, vehicles used by e-commerce operations will be allowed.; home delivery services; services provided by Self-employed persons like electricians, IT repairs, Plumbers, Carpenters etc permitted; all Construction activities, all agricultural activities and farming related activities, MGNREGA activities, Mid-day meal schemes, Social Security Schemes may resume. PTCSU expresses concern over public movement: Phek Town Chakhesang Students’ Union (PTCSU) has expressed concern over public movement despite the nationwide lockdown. In a press release, PTCSU president, Surhoveyi Khesoh and press secretary, Diezekho Vadeo claimed that some citizens of the district have been travelling to other districts to bring back their children, without prior information or permission from the concerned authority. In this regard, PTCSU has requested the concerned authorities to strictly monitor public movement. The student union has also encouraged citizens to compulsory wear masks, maintain social distancing and extend cooperation to the state government.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2020

Naqvi attacks OIC over ‘Islamophobia’ allegations

NEW DELHI, APR 21 (PTI): Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Tuesday hit out at the OIC for its criticism of India over alleged incidents of “Islamophobia”, saying the country is “heaven for Muslims” and those trying to vitiate the atmosphere of prosperity cannot be friends of Indian Muslims. Asserting that the social, economic and religious rights of Muslims are secure in India, Naqvi said “secularism and harmony” is not a “political fashion”, but a “perfect passion” for India and Indians. Naqvi’s sharp retort come two days after the 57member prominent international Mulim grouping, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), asked India to take “urgent steps” to protect the rights of its minority Muslim community and stop the incidents of “Islamophobia” in the country. “We are doing our job with conviction. The prime minister whenever he speaks, he talks about the rights and welfare of 130 crore Indians. If some-

Says India heaven for Muslims

Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi wearing face mask amid COVID-19 outbreak, addresses a press conference, in New Delhi. (PTI)

body cannot see this, then it is their problem. India’s Muslims, its minorities, all its sections of the society, are prosperous and those people trying to vitiate this atmosphere of prosperity, they cannot be friends of Indian Muslims,” the minister told reporters when asked about the OIC’s criticism. On some scholars in Gulf nations censuring India for alleged crimes against Muslims, Naqvi asserted, “India is a heaven for Muslims and minori-

ties. If somebody is saying something with a prejudiced mindset, then he should look at the ground reality…”. Muslims have been empowered in the last five years in various spheres and have an equal share in the progress of the country, he said. “In this country, there is such a large population of Muslims. An analysis of their educational, social and economic conditions in the last five years should be looked at, their share in gov-

ernment jobs has increased and they have been educationally and economically empowered,” Naqvi said. Asked about Maulana Azad National Urdu University Chancellor Firoz Bakht Ahmed’s suggestion that the lockdown be extended till May 24 to cover the period of Ramzan, Naqvi said the government has been taking steps at appropriate times. Muslims have had an equal share in the progress of all sections and if India is progressing, the community is also progressing, he asserted. “We should ensure that our strength of unity in diversity’ is not weakened under any circumstances. Professional bogus bashing brigades” are still active and conspiring to spread misinformation, Naqvi said. Cautioning against fake news and conspiracies aimed at spreading misinformation, he said the authorities have been working for safety and well-being of all citizens, and rumourmongering and conspiracies are a “nefarious design” to weaken the fight against coronavirus.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the entire country is united in the fight against coronavirus by breaking all barriers of caste, religion and region” and the cooperation has brought great relief to India in the war against COVID-19, but still several challenges are there before the country, he added. Speaking about the holy month of Ramzan, which is to start from April 24 or 25, Naqvi said all Muslim religious leaders, imams as well as religious and social organisations have jointly decided to offer prayers and perform other religious rituals during Ramzan staying inside their home. More than 30 state waqf boards have already started working on a strategy to ensure strict and honest implementation of lockdown, curfew and social distancing during Ramzan with the cooperation of the Muslim community after a decision in this regard was taken during a meeting, chaired by Naqvi through videoconferencing, last week.

Nagaland govt unable to tackle pandemic: NPF (From p-1) ringing as early as the first week of March 2020. The opposition party, therefore, said that state government ought to have geared up all its machineries well ahead of time to face the situation. NPF said that even after a lapse of so many days and weeks the state government was still under preparation stage and nothing was ready on the ground, it added should prick their conscience and step down on moral ground. Stating that lockdown was nearing almost 30 days now, the NPF said it was only on April 20, 2020 that the state government had announced some incentives/ex-gratia for the frontline workers of COVID-19 pandemic, which described was “too late too little”. “Had there been any casualty amongst the frontline workers prior to this announcement what would have been the reaction of the government? NPF questioned. Opposition NPF said

that almost all the state governments have taken such measures/steps long before the lockdown or right after the lockdown was announced. However, it stated that the PDA government was taking the step only when the lockdown was about to be over. That too, NPF said the amount indicated for the professionals/ working person and the students was too meagre especially for those people who were stranded outside the state. Stating that other states have either announced ex gratia or incentives to all government accredited journalists as they were also in the frontline, NPF, however, said the state government did not announce any ex gratia or incentive for media personnel in Nagaland. NPF pointed out that media plays an important role during the time of crisis particularly at the time of pandemic they were considered as frontline workers. While perfor ming

their duties, NPF said the media should also be given a well equipped protective gear. The opposition also pointed out earlier “lack of co-ordination” amongst various departments in managing the affairs of the present pandemic. It said the “highhandedness” of the police on duty was surfacing almost every day. “This clearly indicates lack of coordination within the government which evidently reflects the incompetency of the government,” NPF said. NPF said with all those incidences coupled with poor PPE kits the question was whether the frontline workers especially the medical fraternity would give their best to perform their duties diligently? Meanwhile, the opposition party has demanded that the government reveal the present status of the person from Dimapur who was tested positive in Guwahati and steps taken for the safety of the citizens of Nagaland.

NLA speaker takes part in video conference 115 families at President’s Estate in self-isolation

Speaker, Nagaland Legislative Assembly, Sharingain Longkumer participated in a video conference on 21st April 2020 with the Speakers of all the State Legislatures in India.

DIMAPUR, APR 21 (NPN): Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) speaker Sharingain Longkumer along with the speakers of all the state legislatures Tuesday took part in a video conference hosted by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The

focus of discussion was the COVID 19 pandemic affecting the country and the rest of the world. A statement issued by the assembly secretariat stated NLA speaker Longkumer spoke about various initiatives taken by the state under the

leadership of Nagaland chief minister, Neiphiu Rio, for containing the spread of the virus within the State. In his concluding remarks, Lok Sabha speaker appreciated the efforts of the state in addressing the situation.

NEW DELHI, APR 21 (PTI): Anxious moments were witnessed at the President’s Estate after a kin of an employee, working in the housekeeping department, was detected with the COVID-19 disease prompting authorities to keep 115 families under “self-isolation” as a “preventive measure”. Spread over 330 acres from the famous Raisina Hill till South Avenue, the Rashtrapati Bhawan houses nearly 1,000 families who are engaged in various duties which include maintenance of the majestic palace with 340 rooms, a central lawn, Ashok Hall and Durbar Hall. The detection of the COVID-19 case from the premises of the President’s

Advisories under revised guidelines of lockdown 2.0 ADVISORY ON

OPEN

ACTIVITIES & SERVICES

STRICTLY OBSERVE PHYSICAL DISTANCING ACTIVITIES CONSTRUCTION, AGRICULTURAL, FARMING RELATED, VETERINARY SERVICES ETC. ESSENTIAL SERVICE PROVIDERS BANKS& ATMS, LPG, INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS, MEDIA, PETROLEUM OUTLETS, POSTAL SERVICES ETC. SERVICES SERVICES BY SELF EMPLOYED ELECTRICIANS, PLUMBERS, CARPENTERS, IT REPAIRS. SCHEMES

MID-DAY MEAL SCHEMES, SOCIAL SECURITY SCHEMES, MGNREGA ACTIVITIES TO RESUME

EFFECTIVE 20 APRIL - 3 MAY 2020 FOR MORE DETAILS GO TO WWW.COVID19.NAGALAND.GOV.IN/ADVISORIES

CLOSED

UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

ADVISORY FOR

SHOPS/EATERIES

TYPE OF SHOP ALLOWED

ACTIVITIES

SOCIAL, POLITICAL, SPORTS, ENTERTAINMENT, CULTURAL, RELIGIOUS, WEDDING RECEPTIONS.

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

NOT ALLOWED

ALLOWED

DEALING WITH FOOD GRAINS, FOOD ITEMS, DAILY USE ITEMS, VEGETABLES, ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES. DHABAS AT STRATEGIC LOCATIONS.

TYPE OF SHOP NOT ALLOWED DEPARTMENTAL STORE, SHOPPING COMPLEX, SALON.

DINE-IN RESTAURANT, EATERY, FOOD STALL, HAWKERS, CROWDED MARKET AREAS. NO TAKEAWAY

SCHOOLS, EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, HOME TUITIONS, VOCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

HOME DELIVERY HOME DELIVERY FROM RESTAURANT/FOOD OUTLET. HOME DELIVERY ONLY ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES.

FUNERALS

Proprietor must get clearance from District Administration.

CONGREGATION OF MORE THAN 20 PERSONS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED.

NO TAKE-AWAY FROM RESTAURANT/FOOD OUTLET.

Proprietor must ensure staff & customers maintain social distancing (6 feet/2m). Proprietor must ensure staff & customers are wearing face masks. Proprietor must arrange hand sanitizers or provide facility for hand washing with soap.

PUBLIC PLACES

PARKS, GYMS, LIBRARIES, MUSEUMS, RELIGIOUS PLACES, THEATERS, SPORTS COMPLEXES ETC.

COVID- 19 WAR ROOM NAGALAND

Proprietor must clean and disinfect door handles, surfaces and objects frequently touched by people. Use of common public toilets is not allowed.

EFFECTIVE 20 APRIL - 3 MAY 2020

FOR MORE DETAILS GO TO WWW.COVID19.NAGALAND.GOV.IN/ADVISORIES

COVID- 19 WAR ROOM NAGALAND

Paiwang reaches out to Nagas of Myanmar MP CM expands Cabinet;

(From p-1) During the meeting, fire & emergency service, SIRD and relief & rehabilitation advisor Pohwang Konyak called for maintaining law and order and urged everyone not to create a situation that could spoil the relationship between the police and public. He claimed that there was continuous monitoring and strict vigilance was being carried out at the entry point at Nagaland gate both at Tizit and Naganimora. Representatives of KNSK and KBBB thanked the hard work of Mon district administration headed by deputy commissioner (DC) Thavaseelan K and other organisations, besides acknowledging mobile ATM service offered by the banks for convenience of general public. Thavaseelan K, who chaired the meeting, appealed to all the villages to arrange quarantine centres. Pointing out that 14 days of quarantine did not always show symptoms of the virus in a person, the DC insisted that a person should be quarantined for 28 days for preventing spread of COVID-19 virus.

Police force ordered to maintain restraint; law-breakers warned of strict action

(From p-1) Limasunep said the association was all set to supply 3,000 PPE kits and other protective gears to various hospitals and agencies by this week. Mentioning that the police department had received a lot of support from various individuals and agencies, including governor RN Ravi and health & family welfare department, he claimed that the protective gears were distributed to all districts and battalions, including police units, adding even battalion unit hospitals were equipped now. He said N-95 masks and others equipment were given to policemen and policewomen involved in high-risk jobs like in hospitals, adding those on normal patrolling duties were given three-layer masks and hand sanitizers. K Y M C

Estate prompted Rashtrapati Bhawan to issue a statement in which they clarified that “no employee of the President’s secretariat has tested positive for COVID-19 and the secretariat along with the local administration is taking all the preventive measures required under the government guidelines.” A COVID-19 positive patient from central Delhi, who was neither an employee of the President’s secretariat nor a resident of the President’s Estate, died on April 13, 2020 with co-morbidities at the B L Kapoor Hospital in New Delhi, the statement said. After contact tracing of the deceased, it was found that a family member of an employee of the Presi-

Sanitation workers wearing PPE kit at Defence Colony during the ongoing coronavirus lockdown, in New Delhi. (PTI)

dent’s Secretariat had been in contact with the deceased prompting the authorities to shift the employee along with the family, residents of Pocket 1, schedule A area of the President’s Estate, to a quarantine facility at Mandir Marg on April 16, the statement said.

GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND DIRECTORATE OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE NAGALAND : KOHIMA

No: DHFW/COVID-19/2019-20/

Dated Kohima, the 19th April 2020.

ORDER In order to facilitate surveillance to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, the department has developed a Mobile App known as “nCOVID-19 Nagaland Visitor’s App”. In exercise of the powers conferred by the Nagaland Epidemic Disease (COVID-19) Regulations, 2020 under the Epidemic Disease Act 1897 and in the interest of public service, the following categories of contact persons shall mandatorily download the App from Google playstore and register: 1. All inbound travelers entering Nagaland. 2. All persons put on quarantine, either at home or institutional quarantine facility. 3. All persons in “at Risk” contact with positive case, as indicated by mobile footprints. 4. All persons in Contact Tracing Lists within the containment zone. They are to “sign up” and update their sign/ symptoms status twice daily by 10.00 AM and by 7.00 PM till completion of quarantine period. The instruction of how to use the app is given at Annexure 1. Any act of non registration/ non-compliance shall be deemed to have committed an offence punishable as per the provisions of the Epidemic Disease Act, 1897. (DR. VIZOLIE Z SUOKHRIE) Principal Director Directorate of Health & Family Welfare Nagaland::Kohima

rewards 2 Congress rebels

BHOPAL, APR 21 (PTI): Amid the coronavirus crisis, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday expanded his Cabinet for the first time by inducting five ministers, two of them Congress rebels who joined the BJP, nearly a month after taking charge. The five new ministers, three of them sitting MLAs and two former legislators, were sworn-in by Governor Lalji Tandon in the afternoon at Raj Bhawan here. The swearing-in ceremony, attended by Chouhan, was kept low-key in view of the coronavirus-induced lockdown. Social distancing norms were followed at the ceremony. Among the new entrants in the Cabinet, two ex-Congress MLAs Tulsi Silawat and Govind Singh Rajput, are supporters of former Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, who along with 22 MLAs, including six ministers, quit the Congress last month to join the BJP. The other ministers who took oath are Narottam Mishra (Brahmin), Meena Singh (Scheduled Tribe) and Kamal Patel (OBC), all sitting BJP MLAs. The 15-month-old Congress government headed by Kamal Nath collapsed last month after 22 MLAs of the then ruling party - supporters of Scindia - revolted and resigned, paving the way for the BJP to assume power in the key central state where the saffron party had narrowly lost polls in 2018.

“Subsequently, one of the family members who was in contact with the deceased tested positive. All other family members including the employee of the President’s Secretariat have tested negative,” it said. Adhering to the instructions and guidelines under

the Disaster Management Act, 115 houses in Pocket 1, schedule A area of the President’s Estate were identified for movement restriction and residents have been advised to remain indoors, the Rashtrapati Bhavan said. “The residents of these houses are being provided doorstep delivery of essential commodities,” it added. Spread over 2.5 kilometres, the estate provides residential accommodation to employees posted with the President’s Secretariat which includes the home and office of the President, a museum complex and famous gardens - The Mughal Gardens, Herbal Garden, Musical Garden and Spiritual Garden.

No: DHFW/COVID-19/2019-20/

Dated Kohima, the 20th April 2020

Annexure 1: How to use the app 1.1. Download the app from Google Playstore “nCovid-19 Nagaland visitor’s-app” (if you have an earlier version downloaded, please uninstall and install the latest app from play store) 1.2. If you have already registered in the App, then Login in with your registered mobile number. 1.3. If not registered earlier, select “Sign up”, select “I am a citizen”, register with your mobile number (OTP based authentication). 2. 1. If you are a traveler entering Nagaland, after login, please fill up the “self declare” form. 2.2. If you are within Nagaland, and is in quarantine (home or facility), after login, please select “have you been notified at risk” enter your phone number and quarantine start date. 3.1. Quarantine- daily reporting: 3.2. Go to “Home quarantine”, fill up your symptoms twice daily for 14 days. Day 1 shall be the start date of quarantine. 3.3. Timing for daily symptom status reporting: a. Morning 6 AM to 10 AM. b. Evening 3 PM to 7 PM 4. Mobile GPS/location should be mandatorily enabled to submit daily report. 5. If you are iOS user, then go to the link: Self Declaration for iOS User* https://www.nagalandhealthproject.org/covid/login-user.php 6.

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If you have any technical issues please contact: 98560 67538 / 87949 44850 (DR. VIZOLIE Z SUOKHRIE) Principal Director Directorate of Health & Family Welfare Nagaland::Kohima K Y M C

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OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 135 Dimapur, WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2020

Tracking COVID-19

A

s the state government moves ahead to set up two test laboratories in Kohima and Dimapur especially in the light of the emergent need to contain COVID-19, perhaps the demands of several organisations in this regard need to be taken into consideration so that it would serve well to enlighten public about the logic behind setting up different grade/levels in the two cities. As reported and commented in this column, there needs to be some consideration of the ground reality with regard to the decision making since it directly affect public health and safety. Of all north eastern states only Nagaland, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh are yet to establish laboratories to test and detect infectious virus and bacteria causing diseases. Nagaland will be soon on the map and also likely Arunachal Pradesh. As per the decision of the state government, a Bio Safety Laboratory of the 3rd level will be set up in the Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) while a Bio Safety Laboratory of a lower, 2nd level will be set up in Dimapur.What has surprised many observers is the reason behind establishing a lower grade laboratory in Dimapur. Various organisations have recently aired their views in favour of a similar level 3 BS Laboratory in Dimapur. They have also based their demands on ground reality of Dimapur being an endemic zone for various viral and bacterial diseases and so a level 3 laboratory is desired. Dimapur has a much higher incidence of various viral and bacterial diseases and setting up a BSL-3 laboratory would be only be befitting. There may not be much difference between levels 2 and 3 so if that is so, then it stands to reason that a level 3 laboratory should also be set up in Dimapur. Doing so would provide virologists, microbiologists and laboratory technicians working in the laboratory with ample opportunities to help contain various infectious diseases. In fact, Dimapur district itself is like a laboratory of various endemic diseases. Biosafety Level or-BSL- is a set of biocontainment precautions required to isolate hazardous biological agents in an enclosed manufacturing or research laboratory. These levels of protections are to safeguard laboratory personnel and the surrounding environment. The levels of containment range from the lowest biosafety level 1 (BSL-1) to the highest at level 4 (BSL-4). These levels, from 1 to 4, are ranked according to the lethality of the agents or organisms that are being worked with in the laboratory. COVID-19 or coronavirus is a deadly virus that causes serious and often lethal symptoms. It is transmitted from human to human through inhalation of virus-infected atmosphere, objects touched by infected patients etc. Since it’s a new strain, there is no specific vaccine that can treat it and that’s what makes coronavirus highly dangerous. The current fight against spread of COVID-19 will not end with lifting of lockdown, according to many virologists. The virus has to be stopped from spread and that is going to be the biggest challenge otherwise, it could spring back with a bang in the expected second wave.

DailyDevotion Don’t Hurt the Lord Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? —John 14:9 Our Lord must be repeatedly astounded at us— astounded at how “un-simple” we are. It is our own opinions that make us dense and slow to understand, but when we are simple we are never dense; we have discernment all the time. Philip expected the future revelation of a tremendous mystery, but not in Jesus, the Person he thought he already knew. The mystery of God is not in what is going to be— it is now, though we look for it to be revealed in the future in some overwhelming, momentous event. We have no reluctance to obey Jesus, but it is highly probable that we are hurting Him by what we ask— “Lord, show us the Father…” (John 14:8). His response immediately comes back to us as He says, “Can’t you see Him? He is always right here or He is nowhere to be found.” We look for God to exhibit Himself to His children, but God only exhibits Himself in His children. And while others see the evidence, the child of God does not. We want to be fully aware of what God is doing in us, but we cannot have complete awareness and expect to remain reasonable or balanced in our expectations of Him. If all we are asking God to give us is experiences, and the awareness of those experiences is blocking our way, we hurt the Lord. The very questions we ask hurt Jesus, because they are not the questions of a child. “Let not your heart be troubled…” (14:1, 27). Am I then hurting Jesus by allowing my heart to be troubled? If I believe in Jesus and His attributes, am I living up to my belief? Am I allowing anything to disturb my heart, or am I allowing any questions to come in which are unsound or unbalanced? I have to get to the point of the absolute and unquestionable relationship that takes everything exactly as it comes from Him. God never guides us at some time in the future, but always here and now. Realize that the Lord is here now, and the freedom you receive is immediate.

Quotes

Keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead. ~ Oscar Wilde

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2020

Post-mortem

COVID-19: Risk and impact on NE students or migrants in India?

A

s novel Coronavirus disease (COVID19) sweeps across the globe, many concepts are being developed to explain its ferocity. One, commonly circulated within right-wing conspiracy circles, is that it originated as a biological weapon developed at a secret Chinese military lab in the city of Wuhan in Hubei province that somehow leaked into the civilian population. For now, that theory has been debunked, the US President Trump and his supporters continue to call COVID-19 the “China Virus” the “Wuhan Virus” or even the “Kung Flu,” arguing its world-wide spread was the outcome of an untrained and secretive Chinese government response. However, scientists believe that the virus originated in bats and was transmitted to humans at a Wuhan wet market. But perhaps there is another far more ill-omened probability to consider; that this is one of Mother Nature’s ways of resisting humanity’s battering on her essential systems. All these theories and concepts are different subject matter to analyse and critique. But COVID-19 is much more than a health crisis. It is a human, economic, and social crisis. The CVOVID-19, which has been characterised as a pandemic by the WHO, is attacking societies at

their core and its impact on the Northeast youth (migrants) is yet to be fully assessed. If not properly addressed through policy and social crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic may increase inequality, exclusion, discrimination, and unemployment in the short and longer-term. Across India, hundreds of thousands of Northeast people migrated to the metropolis, since the liberalisation of the Indian economy in the 1990s, to study and work in different universities and sectors. As COVID-19 destroys the economy and absence of jobs, homes, and food loom large; most of the Northeast migrants studying and working across different cities are set to return. This reverse migration, possibly carrying disease can have a devastating impact on our society. Northeast students/ migrants living in various cities in India would likely be disproportionately unemployed, and those who are employed often work in the informal economy or gig economy, on precarious contracts or in the service sectors of the economy, that are likely to be severely affected. Besides, that racism and acts of racial discrimination shall increase once lockdown restrictions are removed. Currently, the people of Northeast living in various cities and towns across the country are

facing a problem of a different kind, such as racial discrimination based on their Mongoloid features because of the origin of the virus in Wuhan, China. Northeast students/ migrants across cities are increasingly worried about how they are going to pay their bills as COVID-19 forces businesses to close and costs their jobs. The surge in jobless claims is being fuelled by the growing number of companies that have announced layoffs or shutdowns as they try to weather the economic storm of time. Here are some top hiring trends which will directly or indirectly affect Northeast students/migrants. Job losses and salary cuts are in the high-risk service sector, including airlines, hotels, malls, multiplexes, restaurants, and retailers, where the majority of the Northeast migrants are working. Aviation Sector The aviation sector, one of the sectors where many Northeast people work already fleecing with IndiGo announcing a salary cut for its employees. Besides that, GoAir has already retrenched many of its workers and ex-pat pilots. There is extra pressure mounting on the aviation companies and they will be forced to sack more employees. Many companies contemplating salary cuts and a voluntary no-pay

leave scheme up to certain management positions. Besides, domestic airlines, the global companies like Singapore Airlines, United Airlines have suspended all their hiring until the least June. Unfortunately, all airlines, including SpiceJet, Vistara, Air India, and others are not too immune to the situation which has unquestionably affected the airlines in the most severe from across the globe. The crisis is indiscriminate, affecting everyone from budget operators to national flag carriers. Tourism, Travel, and Hospitality Sectors Indian tourism and hospitality industry are starting at a potential massive job loss. COVID-19 effect is such that it can lead to severe to very severe impact on the travel and tourism sector in India with thousands of jobs being axed. According to the news report, many hotels both luxury and budget in India are running at just 10 per cent of occupancy levels as thousands of people have cancelled their trips. This may further worsen in the times to come at least till the end of this year. The tourism sector has taken a massive hit due to the outbreak and likely to continue for a longer period. Slowdown in Hiring According to an industry expert, the overall hiring sentiments are

Has COVID-19 wrecked world economy?

C

o n c e r n s ove r t h e spread of the COVID19 virus have translated into an economic slowdown. The world economy will go into recession with a predicted loss of trillions of dollars of global income due to the COVID-19 pandemic; it’s a serious trouble for developing countries with the likely exception of India and China, according to a latest UN trade report. The coronavirus pandemic is set to leave 170 countries with lower GDP per capita by the end of the year, but the projection may be actually a more optimistic picture than reality produces. One of the reasons is that America is constituting less than 5 percent of the world’s population. Americans generate and earn more than 20 percent of the world’s total income. America is the world’s largest national economy and leading global trader but worse part is that they are badly affected due to Corona Virus. India is on the verge of an unprecedented economic catastrophe as the humanitarian disaster from the COVID19 pandemic unfolds. The sheer scale of disruption from the ongoing national lockdown to contain the outbreak is unprecedented in Indian history. The greater part of the non-agricultural work force will have no livelihood for the duration of the lockdown and it may continue beyond May 2020. In the absence of massive public intervention, there will be widespread increases in poverty. The macroeconomic concern now is to stabilise an economy that is in free fall, which requires measures to sustain some demand as well as to ensure supplies. Restrictions on movement of people, goods and services, and containment measures such as factory closures have cut manufacturing and domestic demand sharply all over the world. The impacts have also seen on business travel and tourism, supply chains, commodities which has lower confidence in growing. Following the pandemic, the shortage of manpower led to a rise in the daily wages of labourers, as they were able to market themselves to the highest

bidder. Negative impacts of the coronavirus disease are mainly borne by people working specific industries, such as restaurants, hotels, transportation companies, movie theatres and tourism. Infrastructure investment will not directly absorb many workers who worked in the industries mostly impacted by the disease. There is need of all countries to introspect and reevaluate their supply chains to become less dependent on China. The world is opening its wallet to fight the effects of the coronavirus outbreak. The United States unveiled a $2 trillion rescue package. European countries have announced their own spending blitz, and Japan approved a nearly $1 trillion economic stimulus plan. The Indian government has announced a $22.6 billion stimulus plan to directly aid poorer communities affected by the coronavirus lockdown. The Asian Development Bank has assured India $2.2 billion in its fight against the COVID - 19 pandemic. The International Monetary Fund recently announced the “Great Lockdown” recession will drag global GDP lower by 3% in 2020, but its managing director now thinks the gloomy outlook could be too positive. A look back at history can help us consider the economic effects of public health emergencies and how best to manage them. In doing so, however, it is important to remember that past pandemics were far more deadly than coronavirus, which has a relatively low death rate. A fully-funded health system is key to fighting both virus and stemming the economic impact. Following points of concern can be looked into to overcome present crisis:1. Strengthening health systems financially:(a) Full funding for core public health measures such as case-finding, testing, contact tracing, collecting data, and communication and information campaigns. (b) Strong financial supporting for health systems to ensure that health workers are paid their salaries, and health facilities have the reliable funding and need to purchase

essential medical supplies. (c) The removal of financial barriers to provide free testing and care for coronavirus patients regardless of insurances. (d) Need to have more number of medical colleges and Hi-Tech hospitals. (e) Need to establish more number of research laboratories. (f) Requirements of HiTech ambulances for speedy transfer of patients without endangering lives. (g) Sharing of case studies of patients between states and countries. (h) Mandatory to have medical treatment cashless cards for every citizen. Premiums of poor can be funded by government whereas middle and rich class can purchase themselves. 2. Strengthening the world’s economies:(a) Prioritized help for emerging markets and developing economies which are hard hit by the crisis. (b) Emergency financing to the countries running out of lively stock. (c) Eased debt obligations for the IMF’s poorest members through the Catastrophe Containment Relief Trust. (d) Need promote economic growth of state or country through innovation. We must have national policies that promote innovation to ensure that there will be enough prosperity to carry on into the next generation. (e) Countries have to aggressively reach out own skilled labours to reduce dependency on other countries. We have to make it more difficult for foreign entrepreneurs to come to and stay in India. (f) Eradicate illiteracy by compulsory education system for every citizen and also providing skills for various job options to eradicate employment. (g) Lower interest rates – reduce the cost of borrowing and increase consumer spending and investment. (h) Increased real wages – if nominal wages grow above inflation then consumers have more disposable to spend. Marina Seyie, Dieze colony, Chümoukedima

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likely to witness with 6065 percent interviews getting delayed particularly service sectors. Sectors like BFSI (Banking, Financial, Ser vices, and Insurance), retails, and logistics, where a lot of frontline hiring takes place are certain to witness deferment. C-suite hiring has fallen by 50 per cent following the COVID-19 outbreak. According to an executive hiring company, the worst affected has been the hiring of expatriates. B-School Internship and Final Placements The summer internship season that would have ideally begun in April has now hit hard amid the COVID-19 scare at some of the top B-Schools. Students of B-schools like IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Indore, FMS Delhi and XLRI Institute of Management have been issued deferred joining date or have been asked to work remotely. Many national and international internship projects stand cancelled with the internship period reduced from 7-8 weeks to 5 weeks now, the report said. The above list of impacts and reasons is by no means comprehensive, nor do any of this challenge come with easy solutions. The COVID-19 crisis is a mirror of our underlying economic and social fabric. The risks for the Northeast students/migrants are con-

siderable. Without family and friends’ networks and government support, they are more likely to become homeless. Alternatively, they may rely on already overstretching charity organisations, good Samaritans, and government aid. Northeast migrants would likely to have reverse migration, which will have a significant impact on our society. While adhering to physical distancing and other measures, it is extrem ely im por ta nt to strategise and plan to deal post-COVID-19 pandemic remaking socio-economic problems. The leaders, government, community leaders, religious leaders, intellectuals, and every individual must prepare to embrace approaches that can ease further damages to our social fabric and economic burden. To the extent that migration is crucial to our economy and education, reverse migration is also a broader challenge for our society in the longer-term, which pragmatic, humane, and community-minded response is urgently needed. Unfortunately, the COVID19 pandemic inhumanely pushing many Northeast migrants across cities in India to make an unexpected journey home. Dr Pamreihor Khashimwo, Post-Doctoral Fellow, University of Delhi, (khashimwo.jnu@gmail.com)

COVID-19 pandemic: Suggestion and feedback

OVID-19 pandemic responses involve sacrifices of forefront liners – the medical fraternity, military personnel, scientists, administrators, funding organizations both government and non-governmental agencies like Civil societies, Churches, Tribal Hohos, Students’ Unions, and other related bodies, and not forgetting the generous well-wishers coming forward to help the needy during this trying time. You all have “given enough” and you deserved sincere THANK YOU & BIG SALUTE! Everyone can “DO GOOD” or “GIVE” to the needy in our own capacity. Perhaps, being belittled to the needy is a sin (Prov 14:21). “If everyone had the madness for doing good, there wouldn’t be any misery in the world” @Naskar. So, do good, give, help, support, donate, contribute... UNCONDITIONALLY. Serving humanity is serving God. The fund received/collected (be it by the state government/organizations/ individuals) for the cause should be formulated and allocated for the execution of smooth monitoring as per planned for the well-being of the people. This will enable the task force like NGOs and other concerned bodies to implement the work effectively. Coordination and cooperation among the government administrations and civil organizations irrespective of any level and the general public is the need of the hour. The collective fight can ameliorate the plight and fulfilled the purposes by paying close attention to the needs and suffering of the people - to prevent and protect from deadly

novel coronavirus and other untoward eventualities. Strict enforcement of legal prosecution must be served to the offence both who misuses the fund and failed to adhere to the policy directives. Everything should be in the letter and in spirit. This will avoid and prevent the unscrupulous and mischievous acts, be it the government administrators, social leaders/activists, police personnel, medical fraternity, and the general public so as to regulate the whole system in a decent and better manner. The willy-nilly governing strategy will less intensify and improve the working mechanism. For this, everyone must join hands, because no legislation or rules can be implemented or answered the social maladies without the response from everyone. The Corona pandemic should not be coloured with religious, communal or racial agenda. The writing on the wall needs to be taken great care. This is not the time to mix-up ugly games with this worldwide life-threatening epidemic. Last but not the least, “kind and charity” “GUIDING PRINCIPLE” is to help privately or in secret (Matt 6:4). “Receiver’s Criteria” - Everyone is not needy EXAMINE whether you and I “DESERVE” it or not, there is a big difference between “deserving” and “undeserving” #Integrity counts plus God knows! Thank God, I come under the “undeserving” criteria. In this way, I’m still helping the needy; very simple rule. Tunchapbo SP

Reader’s Post

Issue of car pass to district HoD (officers)

Sir,

As per the order/notification by the government, several district officers went to Dimapur DC’s office to collect car pass to proceed to their respective districts. But to the discomfort of the officers we were made to wait around 7 hours. The administrative officer incharge concern was actually not paying attention. We were asked to apply in written which I should say can be done away with, at least in the case of officers who come personally. Their ID card where all particulars such as designation, name, photo, department etc. are available should be taken as proof enough for the purpose of issue of the car pass; after all they’re also on their way to perform government duties in their posting places as directed by government. It is found that all kinds of applications, private and others were mixed up and the movement from table to table was taking too long. I would suggest that one officer take charge of issue of car pass to government officers across the table on production of official ID card by maintaining a register. Otherwise, it’s share wastage of time and pure red-tapism. Shiloh Kath, Assistant Controllerm Legal Metrology And Consumer Protection, Kohima

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.

NORTHEAST/STATE

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2020

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Limited economic activity starts in Northeast NVA endorses, support IMA’s ‘White Alert’ call

GUWAHATI/AGARTALA, APR 21 (IANS) : With no fresh positive coronavirus cases reported in the past 48 hours from any of the eight northeastern states, some economic activities were restarted on Monday following the centre’s guidelines and advices, ministers and officials said. Chief Ministers, Ministers and top officials briefed the media in the respective state capitals about the economic and manufacturing activities partially resumed in all the northeastern states maintaining the lockdown and social distancing guidelines. Works in around 850 tea gardens in Assam and Tripura had started last week while all liquor shops and wholesale warehouses in Assam and Meghalaya re-opened on April 13 for limited hours and stipulated days. According to Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, of the 34 novel coronavirus positive cases found so far in Assam out of which one had died, 19 patients have so far been released from the hospital as they recovered from the dreaded disease and the remaining would be discharged from hospitals

One more tests positive for COVID19 in Meghalaya Correspondent

SHILLONG, APR 21: One more person tested positive for COVID-19 in Meghalaya, taking the total number of cases in the State to 12, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said. “One of the family friend of the positive patient has also been tested positive. The person is already in quarantine centre,” Sangma stated in his twitter handle. Meghalaya recorded the first COVID-19 positive case on April 13, that of Dr. John L. Sailo Ryntathiang, the Director of the Bethany hospital, which is now declared as COVID-19 hotspot in this state capital. In less than 48-hours, Dr. Sailo died in his hospital which he established three decades ago. Out of the ten COVID19 patients, two are domestic helpers and eight are family members of Dr. Sailo. However, the Chief Minister did not specify whether the latest person infected with COVID-19 is a family friend of the deceased Dr. Sailo or two of his helpers. Earlier, during his regular briefing on Monday evening, Sangma said, “ Of 838 samples tested for COVID-19 in the state so far, 714 yielded negative results and results of 113 were awaited.” He said the ten positive patients were quarantined and are stable as of now.

Assam police distributes foods items to security personnel during the nationwide lockdown, in wake of the coronavirus pandemic, in Guwahati. (PTI)

soon. Briefing the media in Guwahati, he said that to accelerate the process of sample tests, the health workers would start ‘rapid testing’ on suspected Covid patients from Wednesday in selected places in Assam. “The state has received the first installment of 10,000 rapid test kits from the ICMR (Indian Council for Medical Research) and the state government on its own has started the process of procuring more 50,000 rapid test kits soon. The rapid test kits would

facilitate ascertain whether one is novel coronavirus positive or negative in just 15 minutes,” Sarma said. Sarma also said that with the virus case load decreasing, the medical colleges and civil hospitals in Assam would be opened for general patients from April 24. Assam Chief Secretary Kumar Sanjay Krishna announced relaxation in several sectors and activities. He told the media in Guwahati that all the state government offices would be opened from April 21.

“Right from the Deputy Secretaries to the high-level officials of the Assam Secretariat will have to attend their respective office regularly,” he said. In Agartala, Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb explained in detail about the sectors where works are being allowed maintaining the social distance, lockdown guidelines and government’s do’s & don’ts. According to Deb, the industrial units and establishments would be allowed to operate include manu-

Mnp bans spitting in public

Sikkim gives cash incentives to journalists

Correspondent

IMPHAL, APR 21: Ban on spitting in public place which was earlier imposed in Bishnupur district has now been extended to the whole of Manipur. Using and chewing of smokeless tobacco products, paan masala and areca nut in public places were banned in the state by an order of the state health department issued on Monday (April 20). The ban with immediate effect till further orders was imposed as a measure against the spread of COVID-19 and in the interest of public health, an official source in the state health department said on Tuesday. Violators of the bans will be prosecuted under relevant provisions of the Disaster Management Act, the Epidemic Diseases Act, Manipur Epidemic Diseases COVID-19 Regulations, 2020 and under provisions of the Indian Penal Code 1860 and the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). Union ministr y of home affairs had already prohibited spitting in public spaces in its latest consolidated revised guidelines on measures for containment of COVID-19 in the country. The consolidated revised guidelines issued on April 15 stated that “spitting in public spaces shall be punishable with a fine. It stated, “There should

be a strict ban on sale of liquor, ‘gutka’, tobacco etc. and spitting should be strictly prohibited and violators are to be prosecuted under section 51(b) of the Disaster Management Act.” It stated chewing of smokeless tobacco products, paan masala and areca nut (supari) increases the production of saliva followed by a very strong urge to spit. “Spitting in public places could enhance the spread of the COVID-19 virus,” a recent letter (dated April 15, 2020) of the Union health and family welfare ministry asking all states and union territories to prohibit spitting in public spaces stated. In view of the increasing danger of the corona virus pandemic, the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) had also appealed to people to refrain from consuming smokeless tobacco products and spitting in public spaces, the source said. Ahead of the state health department’s order, Bishnupur district of the state had banned spitting in public places which is now punishable offence under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, in a bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19. An order of the DC of the district on April 16 last, has also imposed a complete ban on sale of any kind of liquor, gutka, tobacco which violation of the ban will attract a fine of Rs 200.

BANGALORE, APR 21: The Northeast Welfare Association Karnataka ( NEWAK) has apprised respective state governments of the Northeast of ochallenges ahead for people from the Northeast as most employees (private sectors) will not get their salaries for April month. A press release b NEWAK president Vezokho Resu stated that non receipt of salary will affect payment of house rent, personal expenses, refilling Gas, EMI’s etc etc. Apart from this, NEWAK said people from the Northeast are often faced discrimination by being “Corona virus” and not allowed to buy groceries in some places, stating that this is racism. The release stated that returning home for migrant workers is not a solution now because ‘there is no jobs security in our home States’, further asking who will pay their house rent and other bills? NEWAK appealed to States and Centre Government to step forward and address the issue. It stated that of their grievances are not taken seriously , many migrant workers especially those from the Northeast will be forced to move out and go back to their home States because there will be no way to pay the bills and survive, adding that it will create more unemployment issues for the eight north-eastern states. NEWAK reminded it is the responsibility of every organizations/religious institutions/NGO’S/unions/societies from every section of communities from NE, besides the States and Central Government to come forward and help them at this juncture

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NEWAK appeals to state governments of Northeast

G A N G TO K , A P R 2 1 (PTI): Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Monday gave cash incentives to 176 journalists in recognition of their coverage of the coronavirus outbreak. He presented a cheque for Rs 31.10 lakh to Joseph Lepcha, president of the Press Club of Sikkim, for distribution of the cash incentives to the journalists of daily and weekly newspapers, besides those from electronic and digital media for coverage of the coronavirus outbreak in the state. A total of 135 journalists of daily newspapers will get Rs 20,000 each, while 41 journalists of weekly newspapers as well as of electronic and digital media will get Rs 10,000 each, Tamang said. The chief minister lauded the members of the media fraternity for their valuable contribution in ensuring timely dissemination of news and information to the people on the coronavirus outbreak. He said the financial incentive is a small gesture from the state government to express gratitude towards the mediapersons who have risked their lives for news gathering and dissemination during the difficult time of the COVID-19 outbreak. Tamang said his government will continue to provide necessary support and encouragement to the media fraternity in the state.

facturing of fertilisers, pesticides, and animal feeds, essential goods including drugs, IT hardwares, seeds, works in tea gardens, rubber and bamboo plantations, processing, packaging, rural and food processing industries, sale and marketing of tea, coffee, rubber, cashew, production of coal and minerals, refineries, oil and gas exploration, and brick kilns with maximum of 50 per cent workers. Besides, MGNREGS and limited construction works were also allowed. In Mizoram, many government sponsored programmes are giving relief to the poor people to minimize the economic impact due to the spread of Covid-19 and ongoing lockdown. With the MNREGS works coming into force in this period, peole have started getting wages in their bank accounts. The state government has also increased the MNREGS wage to Rs 225 per day per person. An official of Mizoram’s Food and Civil Supplies Department said that notified poor people are presently getting free ration and various other benefits under various flagship schemes.

DIMAPUR: Nagaland Veterinarians’ Association (NVA) has endorsed and extended support to “White Alert” call by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) on April 22, 9 p.m. as a protest and vigil against the violent atrocities made against the doctors. In a press release, NVA president, Dr. Ilang and general secretary, Dr. Imomanen Tzudir condemned the assaults on Dr. Nosesol Sezo on April 3 and Dr. Mongshithung Murry on April 17 by police personnel. The association pointed out that the medical as well as Animal Husbandry and veterinary Services come under essential services and urged the con-

utter resentment against April 17 incident has extended support to the ultimatum served on the state government by Indian Dental Association Nagaland State Branch (IDANSB), Indian Medical Association (IMA) Nagaland State Branch and Nagaland AYUSH Doctors Association (NADA). In a release, NIDA president, Dr Ritu Thurr pointed out that the April 17 assault on Dr Mongshithung has occurred barely a month after a similar attack on a doctor at Dimapur. The association also solicited public support on NIDA supports the event of a state wide ultimatum cease-work strike should N a g a l a n d I n - S e r - such a despicable incident vice Doctor Association recur on any medical staff (NIDA) while expressing in future.

cerned authority to educate and sensitise law and enforcement personnel deputed on duty. NCA also appealed to the public to ensure that doctors and officials of the essential services are not rendered to face such ugly incidence. It may be noted that IMA has asked doctors and medical professionals across the country to light a candle at 9 p.m. on April 22 as protest and vigil against the violence and abuse. The IMA has termed it as “White Alert” to the nation.

Govt. issues guidelines on construction activities

DIMAPUR: In continuation of the order issued by the office of the chief secretary, Nagaland wherein directions for the strict adherence to the consolidated revised guidelines of lock down throughout the state have been given with immediate effect up to May 3. According to DIPR report, the construction activities allowed vide para 4 (I) of the consolidated revised guidelines has been further clarified as follows: 1. Construction of roads, irrigation projects, buildings and all kinds of industrial projects, including MSMEs, in rural areas,

i.e. outside the limits of municipalities/ town/urban stations, and all kinds of projects in industrial estates. 2. Construction of renewable energy projects. 3. Continuation of works in construction projects, within the limits of Municipalities/ Town/ Urban stations, where workers are available on site and no workers are required to be brought in from outside. Further, it has been informed that strict measures should be taken to ensure social/ physical distancing and all other necessary health safety protocols.

H&WF deptt launches App NDRF sanitises CM’s bungalow DIMAPUR: In order to facilitate surveillance to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, the department of Health and Family Welfare (H&FW) has developed a mobile app called “nCOVID-19 Nagaland Visitor’s App”. According to DIPR report, the department in exercising the powers conferred by the Nagaland Epidemic Disease (COVID-19) Regulations, 2020 under the Epidemic Disease Act 1897 and in the interest of public service has asked certain persons to mandatorily download the App from Google playstore and register. The categories of contact persons are: All inbound travellers entering Nagaland; all persons put on quarantine, either at home or institutional quarantine facility; all persons in “at Risk” contact with positive case, as indicated by mobile footprints and all persons in Contact Tracing Lists within the containment zone. The persons are to “sign up” and update their sign/ symptoms status twice daily by 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. till completion of quarantine period. The department has warned that ny act of non registration/ non-compliance shall be deemed to have committed an offence punishable as per the provisions of the Epidemic Disease Act, 1897. The instruction of how to use the app is as follows: 1.1. Download the app from Google Playstore

“nCovid-19 Nagaland visitor’s-app” (if you have an earlier version downloaded, please uninstall and install the latest app from playstore) 1.2. If you have already registered in the App, then Login in with your registered mobile number. 1.3. If not registered earlier, select “Sign up”, select “I am a citizen”, register with your mobile number (OTP based authentication). 2.1. If you are a traveler entering Nagaland, after login, please fill up the “self declare” form. 2.2. If you are within Nagaland, and is in quarantine (home or facility), after login, please select “have you been notified at risk” enter your phone number and quarantine start date. 3.1. Quarantine- daily reporting: 3.2. Go to “Home quarantine”, fill up your symptoms twice daily for 14 days. Day 1 shall be the start date of quarantine. 3.3. Timing for daily symptom status reporting: Morning 6 am to 10 am. Evening 3 pm to 7 pm 4. Mobile GPS/location should be mandatorily enabled to submit daily report. 5. If you are iOS user, then go to the link: Self Declaration for iOS User* https://www.nagalandhealthproject.org/ covid/login-user.php 6. If you have any technical issues please contact: 98560 67538 / 87949 44850.

NDRF personnel sanitising CM official residence.

DIMAPUR: 12th Bn National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Doimukh Tuesday carried out a “mass area sanitisation drive” at Chief Minister official residence, Kohima. A press release by NDRF informed that the team under command of sub inspector, K.P. Singh “sprayed out disinfectant” into the surrounding areas as well. The release informed that “rescuers” of 12 Bn NDRF are equipped with personal protective equipment including biological suit, N-95 face mask, gloves, eye protection, shoes cover as well as medical first responder kits to assist district authority and state medical teams.

Pochury Hoho greets

DIMAPUR: Pochury Hoho has extended greetings on the occasion of 30th Pochury Day commemorating the recognition of Pichury as a tribe on April 21, 1990. In a message, Pochury Hoho general secretary, Er. Vichutho Nyusou said as the tribe celebrates the day with pride, they should also honour and remember the visionary leaders who made supreme effort to turn the dream into a reality. The Hoho also called upon every Pochury to pray for the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death. (Isaiah 57:2)

LATE MR. P. LUNGPHE PHOM Born :- 25-10-1962 – Died :- 13-04-2020 We the family of Lt. P. Lungphe Phom would like to acknowledge and appreciate the many expressions of love, kindness and support shown to us physically, spiritually and financially during the sickness and demise of our beloved father. We pray that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly. We seek an apology to those whom we failed to thank individually. 1) S. Pangnyu Phom, Minister Health & Family Welfare Nagaland 2) B.S. Nganglang Phom. MLA, 49AC Tamlu 3) A. Pongshi Phom, Contractor 1st class, Dimapur 4) Mr & Mrs. Moiyong, Dimapur 5) Dr. Tali Longkumar City Clinic Dimapur 6) Doctors & Nurses, Zion Hospital Dimapur 7) Dr. Temsu Sashi & staffs Longleng 8) LTBC Longleng 9) PBCA Nyengching Longleng 10) PPC HQ. Longleng 11) Hükphang Council 12) Lingtak Council 13) Hükphang Union Longleng 14) Shayung Ward Longleng 15) Mr. H. Leisha Public Leader 16) Mr. Y. B. Angam Public Leader 17) Phonghopang Hükphang Village 18) Pongching Council 19) Bhumnyu Council 20) Orangkong Council 21) Mongtikang Council Loving Wife, Children, Grandchildren, In-laws & Relatives

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International/sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2020

SL postpones parl S Korea, China cast doubt on reports of Kim being ill elections to June 20

C O LO M B O, A P R 2 1 (IANS): Sri Lanka has announced June 20 as the new date for its parliamentary elections, after the initial plans to hold them on April 25 had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “It is hereby notified that the election for electing the members of Parliament for the aforesaid Electoral Districts will be held on 20th June 2020,” announced the official gazette of Sri Lanka late Monday. The elections were initially scheduled for April 25, after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa ordered the dissolution of Parliament in the beginning of March, six months before its term was scheduled to end, reports Efe news. These were set to be the country’s first parliamentary elections after Rajapaksa - considered a hero of the civil war against Tamil rebels - registered a landslide victory in presi-

Worst yet ahead of us in COVID-19 pandemic: WHO

GENEVA, APR 21 (IANS): Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), warned that “the worst is yet ahead of us” in the coronavirus pandemic that has infected millions and killed thousands across the globe. Addressing the media here on Monday, the WHO chief said: “Trust us. The worst is yet ahead of us... Let’s prevent this tragedy. It’s a virus that many people still don’t understand,” the Evening Standard newspaper reported. “There is no secret in WHO because keeping things confidential or secret is dangerous. It’s a health issue. “This virus is dangerous. It exploits cracks between us when we have differences,” he added.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa

dential elections held in November. However, the rapid spread of the highly contagious coronavirus infections forced the Sri Lankan authorities on March 19 to postpone the elections in a country that had 59 positive cases at the time. Around the middle of last month, Sri Lanka also imposed a curfew, which was relaxed Monday in 19 of the country’s 25 districts, but restrictions on movement have been maintained in areas considered highrisk, such as Colombo.

Due to the economic impact of the lockdown, the government has encouraged the people to return to work but after taking adequate precautions, such as wearing a mask and maintaining social distance. The curfew will be lifted in all areas between 5 a.m. and 8 p.m., although schools and cinemas will remain closed until further notice. As of now, the curfew in high-risk areas is expected to continue until April 27. On Monday, the country recorded 33 fresh cases of COVID-19, marking the highest infections in a single day. The total coronavirus cases now stand at 304, with seven deaths. The pandemic has dealt a severe blow to the tourism sector of this South Asian country, which was only just beginning to recover from the Easter Sunday terror attacks on April 21 last year that left over 250 dead.

SEOUL, APR 21 (AGENCIES): South Korean and Chinese officials on Tuesday cast doubt on reports North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was ill after media outlets said he had undergone a cardiovascular procedure and was in “grave danger”. Daily NK, a Seoulbased speciality website, reported late on Monday, citing one unnamed source in North Korea, that Kim was recovering after undergoing the procedure on April 12. The North Korean leader is believed to be about 36. CNN cited a U.S. official with direct knowledge of the matter as saying Washington was “monitoring intelligence” that Kim was in grave danger after surgery. Bloomberg quoted an unnamed U.S. official as saying the White House was told that Kim took a turn for the worse after the surgery. However, two South Korean government officials rejected the CNN report without elaborating on whether Kim had undergone surgery. The presi-

In this undated file photo provided by the North Korean government on April 12, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects an air defense unit in western area. (PTI)

prices and consequent concerns over global demand. Daily NK said Kim had been admitted to hospital on April 12, just hours before the cardiovascular procedure, as his health had deteriorated since August due to heavy smoking, obesity and overwork. It said he was now receiving treatment at a villa in the Mount Myohyang resort north of the capital Pyongyang. “My understanding is that he had been struggling (with cardiovascular problems) since last August but it worsened after repeated visits to Mount Paektu,” a source was quoted as saying, referring to the country’s sacred mountain. Accompanied by senior North Korean figures, Kim took two well-publicised rides on a stallion on the snowy slopes of the mountain in October and December. An authoritative U.S. source familiar with internal U.S. government reporting on North Korea questioned the CNN report that Kim was in “grave danger”.

dential Blue House said there were no unusual signs coming from the reclusive, nuclear-capable state. Kim is the unquestioned leader of North Korea and the sole commander of its nuclear arsenal. He has no clear successor and any instability in the country could be a major international risk. The state KCNA news agency gave no indication of the whereabouts of Kim in routine dispatches on Tuesday, but said he had

sent birthday gifts to prominent citizens. An official at the Chinese Communist Party’s International Liaison Department, which deals with North Korea, told Reuters the source did not believe Kim was critically ill. China is North Korea’s only major ally. Chinese foreign ministr y spokesman Geng Shuang said Beijing was aware of reports about the health of Kim, but said it does not know their source,

without commenting on whether it has any information about the situation. South Korean shares exposed to North Korea tumbled and the Korean won fell on the reports. The won traded down more than 1% against the dollar even as South Korean government sources said Kim was not gravely ill. U.S. stock futures were trading 0.5% lower, but it was not clear how much of that weakness was owing to the collapse in U.S. oil

Names of 4,000 terrorists removed from Pak’s watchlist

Global COVID-19 deaths top 170,000

Pakistan PM may get tested for COVID-19

NEW DELHI/WASHINGTON, APR 21 (IANS): Pakistan has discreetly removed the names of around 4,000 terrorists from its watchlist, including that of one of the major planners of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) startup has revealed. Due to Pakistan’s long history of exporting terror to India and the rest of the world, the country has been placed under grey list by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global watchdog for terror funding. Dissatisfied with Pakistan’s efforts to curb terror-funding, the FATF in February noted that Islamabad had addressed only 14 points out of 27 conditions to get off the grey list. The FATF is to again evaluate Pakistan’s progress in June. The New York-based

startup Castellum, which automates watchlist compliance, has found that in the last year and a half, Pakistan has deleted “3,800 names from the Proscribed Persons List, without explanation or notification to the public”. The Imran Khan government removed about 1,800 names from its terrorist watchlist since March 9th “without any public explanation, including Zaka ur-Rehman, an alias of the Lashkar-e-Taiba leader and alleged mastermind of the Mumbai attacks”, the Castellum report said. According to a FATF report, Pakistan’s terrorist watchlist had about 7,600 names in October 2018. Castellum.AI, which regularly uses new data sources, added the Pakistan Proscribed Persons List to its database on March 9. Between March 9 and March 27, Castellum.AI

data showed that the Khan government removed 1,069 names from the Proscribed Persons List, and that all those names then appeared on Pakistan’s official denotified list. Since March 27, another 800 or so names have been deleted. To ensure that the AI looked at only the most likely cases where internationally listed terrorists were removed, the startup first downloaded the official Denotified List, then screening the names against its watchlist database. Following this, the AI removed all matches that did not match all name par ts and removed all matches where the listed persons were not citizens of Afghanistan or Pakistan (the Proscribed Persons list seems to only have these two groups). Then the AI ensured that exculpatory informa-

tion does not exist, for example, IDs that do not match, or news reports that the individual is deceased. The AI also ensured that the name, if not exact, matches an official alias. For example, Zaka Ur Rehman, who is more commonly known as Zaki Ur Rehman Lakhvi, but has an official alias ‘Zaki Ur Rehman’. “In the case of Zaka Ur Rehman, the difference between Zaka and Zaki fits within the parameters of an accurate phonetic translation. Castellum.AI also searched for the Lashkare-Taiba leader’s full name, Zaki Ur Rehman Lakhvi, on the Pakistan Proscribed Persons list, and he was not on the list. This means that if the removed name is a false positive, that Pakistan has not added the Lashkare-Taiba leader to its terrorism watchlist,” the report said.

WASHINGTON, APR 21 (IANS): The global COVID19 death toll has topped 170,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University. As of Tuesday morning, a total of 170,324 people have died of the disease, while the global number of coronavirus cases stood at 2,477,426, data compiled by the university’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) showed. The US with 42,335 deaths and 787,370 cases currently accounts for the highest number of infections and fatalities in the world. The other countries with over 20,000 deaths are Italy (24,114), Spain (20,852) and France (20,265). On Monday, Italy for the first time recorded a fall in its total active COVID-19 infections, and Spain saw its lowest single-day fatalities in the past four weeks.

ISLAMABAD, APR 21 (PTI): Imran Khan may be tested for the coronavirus or asked to go into isolation after a well-known philanthropist was tested positive for the COVID-19, days after meeting the Pakistan prime minister, his doctor said on Tuesday. Faisal Edhi, the son of late philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi and chairman of the Edhi Foundation, met Khan last week. Khan’s personal physician and CEO of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital, Faisal Sultan, told media that would meet Khan on Tuesday. “I will meet him and recommend that he gets tested…We will follow all protocols in place and make recommendations accordingly,” he said. The protocols recom-

mend self-isolation for people who meet those tested positive for the coronavirus. Pakistan on Tuesday reported 16 more deaths from the coronavirus, taking the country’s toll to 192, while the number of confirmed spiked to over 9,000. It is not clear how Khan will run the government if he was asked to go into quarantine. Khan is currently working as per routine and also chaired a meeting of Cabinet. Earlier, Saad, the son of Faisal Edhi told the Dawn newspaper that his father started showing symptoms last week, soon after meeting Khan in Islamabad on April 15. “The symptoms lasted for four days before subsiding,” Saad said. “He has not been admitted to any hospital and is selfisolating,” he said.

‘Tokyo Games not rescheduled to I-League: Mohun Bagan Zlatan threatened to kill after finishing 13th in MLS, says Galaxy midfielder 2022 out of management concerns’ declared champions

BEIJING, APR 21 (IANS): The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has explained that the Tokyo Olympic Games were scheduled to 2021 instead of 2022 because the host country, Japan, could not manage a postponement beyond next summer. “Our Japanese partners and the PM made it very clear that Japan could not manage a postponement beyond next summer at the latest. It is a mammoth undertaking, both for the Organizing Committee and the country as a whole,” the IOC said in a Q&A post, reports Xinhua news agency. “First of all, you need to secure the availability of the Olympic Village, since that is at the heart of the Games. The same applies to all the sports venues. Thousands of people will need to carry on working. All the partners,

sponsors and regional and local governments need to pull together. “Postponement will involve restrictions and compromises on the part of everyone involved. There is no blueprint for postponement, but the IOC is very confident that all the complex parts will come together and give us a marvellous Games.” The postponement also caused financial difficulties to some International Federations (IFs) which rely on the dividends of the Olympic Games. “We are conscious of the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on the International Federations and have already started discussions with them on which role the IOC can play in addressing this situation, including support in accessing government and other support programmes which may be available.”

The IOC also made clear that athletes who finish serving their anti-doping suspensions before the Tokyo 2020 unveils in 2021 could be eligible to participate in the Games. “WADA, as the global anti-doping regulatory body, has clarified that under the current rules, doping bans are chronological and not event-specific. The IOC has tried on several occasions to introduce rules that would exclude athletes convicted of doping from the subsequent Olympic Games. This has never been allowed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS),” the IOC stated. The IOC added that it will continue to support WADA to take measures “to protect clean athletes and ensure that the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 and the qualifying events are held in the best possible conditions under current.”

NEW DELHI, APR 21 (IANS): The 2019-20 season of I-League has been concluded by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) with Mohun Bagan declared as champions. AIFF’s League Committee, following a meeting on Saturday, had sent its recommendations to the Executive Committee in light of the COVID-19 pandemic which have been approved. Since the league is not completed, no team will be relegated to the Second Division I-League, while the prize money -- apart from Mohun Bagan’s share -- will be given equally to the remaining 10 teams. “The Executive Committee agreed with the conclusions and the recommendations of the League Committee that this was a force majeure circumstance and the AIFF

and all stakeholders must focus on a priority basis on safety and health aspects of players, officials and fans. In fact, there is still no certainty of when sporting activities including football can be resumed across the country,” said an AIFF media release. All youth leagues in the current season -- the SubJunior League, the Junior League, the Elite League, and the U-17 Khelo India Girls League -- have been concluded due to coronavirus outbreak and will start afresh from 2020-21 season. The AIFF further said it waits to discuss with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to understand the feasibility of organising a shorter duration tournament next season with 2nd division clubs for qualification to the I-League 2020-21.

England’s series against Aus postponed till September LONDON, APR 21 (IANS): England’s white-ball series against arch-rivals Australia has reportedly been pushed back to September due to coronavirus pandemic that has gripped the entire world. So far, more than 2.4 million people have been infected by the virus while in excess of 1.7 lakh individuals have lost their lives worldwide. According to a report in The Daily Mail, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) concluded that their white-ball series in July won’t be feasible in such conditions and asked their Australian counterparts to postpone it by at least two months. England are scheduled to play thee T20Is and three ODIs against Australia from July 3-16. If the change in dates do take place, then England will lock horns against Australia straight after the series against Pakistan, which is currently schedule to end on September 2.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

TO N D E L A , A P R 2 1 (IANS): LA Galaxy midfielder Joao Pedro has made sensational claims that his former teammate Zlatan Ibrahimovic went on an angry rant in the dressing room after team’s defeat in the final match of 2018 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. Despite taking a 2-0 lead, Galaxy lost to Houston Dynamo in the final match of the season on home turf as one of the most recognised American football teams ended the season at a lowly 13th

place. Ibrahimovic, who is known for his unnerving winning mentality, lashed out at his teammates after the end of the match and even went on to the extent of threatening to kill them, according to the Swede’s former teammate Pedro, who is currently on loan from Galaxy to Tondela in Portugal. “At the end of the game, he gave us a talking to,” Pedro was quoted as saying by a Portuguese outlet Record. “He said ‘if you are going to come here

Joao Pedro

to go to the beach or take a walk in Hollywood, just say so. I have 300 million on my account, an island, I don’t need this for anything. The first one who says something to me, I will kill him’.” Despite not adding any trophy into his bulging cabinet in the USA, Ibrahimovic scored 52 goals in his two Major League Soccer seasons. After his goal-laden spell in North America, Ibrahimovic returned to Europe for his second spell with Italian giants Milan.

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