Singapore doctor becomes billionaire

 Singapore doctor becomes billionaire on COVID-19 vaccination drive*

Gulf News

Aug'6, 2021

A Singapore doctor has joined the ranks of billionaires after his company became involved in efforts to fight the pandemic, helping send its profit and stock surging.

Loo Choon Yong, executive chairman of Raffles Medical Group Ltd., is now worth $1.1 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, as the health-care provider's net income more than doubled in the first half of this year and its shares climbed 104% from a low in March 2020.

Raffles Medical has been operating 15 vaccination centers in the city-state, and helping with air-border screening, pre-event testing and pre-departure swabbing of cruise passengers. It's the latest example of how businesses adapted during the coronavirus outbreak when other lines of work were hit.

"When the country is facing a challenge like this, we have to help out," Loo, who owns about 52% of Raffles Medical with his family, said in a video interview. "Although we're private, we're part of the health-care system."

Singapore has been speeding up its COVID-19 vaccination drive, expecting to have 80% of the population fully inoculated by September so that it can relax more virus curbs, including starting to allow quarantine-free travel. Raffles Medical, which operates more than 60 clinics and practices and one hospital across the country, began working on the efforts in January.T

The fact that Raffles Medical is one of the largest health-care providers in Singapore meant that they were able to assist in more ways than one," said Wee Kuang Tay, an analyst at CGS-CIMB Securities Singapore Pte. Their involvement "has benefited them," he said.

Loo, 72, co-founded Raffles Medical in 1976. He and his friend, Alfred Loh, initially bought two clinics and gradually built the company. As well as its presence in Singapore, Raffles Medical has three hospitals in China, the latest one opening in Shanghai last week, and also operates in Japan, Vietnam and Cambodia.e

"The principle was to look after patients properly," Loo said. "The business will look after itself. That's how we grew over the years."

Things didn't look so bright when the virus started to spread last year. Raffles Medical's regular business declined as people stayed away from clinics and hospitals, and medical providers were only allowed to provide essential services, according to Loo.

"During the COVID period, patients get worried and try to stay home," he said. "You don't want to go for health checkups and pick up COVID."

So the company deployed doctors, nurses and other staff into areas such as Covid testing and screening at airports.

Raffles Medical reported profit after tax of S$38.8 million ($28.7 million) for the first half of this year, up 138% from the same period a year earlier. Revenue rose 42% to S$343.8 million.

The company's shares have climbed 50% so far this year, compared with a 12% gain for the country's benchmark stock index.

Tay of CGS-CIMB Securities sounds a note of caution, saying contributions from Covid-19 efforts may have peaked.

W"e do not know how the situation will evolve," he said. Future share-price upside may "need to come from border reopening that can boost medical tourism, and even testing of passenger arrivals at our air border," he said.

Loo, meanwhile, said amassing a fortune of more than $1 billion isn't how he judges his success.

"I don't measure our contribution or the meaning of my life by the market cap or share price," he said. "What's seriously important is how Raffles Medical, as an organization, looks after patients well."



42 Indian return from Myanmar

 42 Indian workers return from Myanmar following political unrest

(All the returnees are workers of IMT Expressway Co Ltd engaged in construction work of Yagyi-Kalewa section) 

Aug' 5, 2021

FOLLOWINF the recent political unrest and incidents of violence after the February 1 military coup in Myanmar, 42 Indians who were engaged in construction work in that country have returned to India and reached the border town of Moreh on Thursday.

All of them are workers of IMT Expressway Co Ltd engaged in construction work of Yagyi - Kalewa section (Milepost 40/0 to Milepost 115/5) in Myanmar.

Superintendent, LCS SK Gangte; inspector, LCS Kenedy; and senior officer, Immigration department Anand along with SIs Rajiv and Tiken verified the documents of the 42 Indian workers at ICP Moreh.

A medical team from Moreh Hospital led by Dr Khwairakpam Pritam and Dr Isak Ali conducted COVID-19 tests of the 42 Indian workers, and one out of the 42 workers tested positive for the virus.

It may be mentioned that the construction workers have returned to India since the atmosphere was not conducive for execution of work anymore due to the political unrest and incidents of violence following the February 1 military coup in Myanmar.A

 A labourer engaged in the project was attacked with a knife by unidentified persons on July 17. He succumbed to his injuries. Another labourer engaged in the same project was allegedly arrested by unidentified armed personnel in a case of mistaken identity. He has reportedly failed to return till date.

-Fr  Agrncy



40 Bodies found in Myanmar Jungle

 At Least 40 Bodies Found in Myanmar Jungle Area After Army Crackdown: Reports

(The bodies were found in several different locations around Kani, a town in the Sagaing area, which has seen fierce fighting in recent months between the army and the militia groups set up by opponents of military rule.) 

Aug'6, 2021

A Myanmar militia force fighting the army in a central part of the country and residents have found at least 40 bodies in jungle areas in recent weeks, including some showing signs of torture, a militia member and media reports said.

Since the military overthrew the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1, hundreds of people have been killed as the army violently quelled protests, and in clashes between soldiers and often hastily assembled, lightly armed local militias.

The bodies were found in several different locations around Kani, a town in the Sagaing area, which has seen fierce fighting in recent months between the army and the militia groups set up by opponents of military rule.

Reuters could not independently verify the claims and a spokesman for the military did not answer calls seeking comment.

Fighting in the area has now mainly stopped and it was unclear if more bodies would be found, said a member of the Kani militia, who asked not to be identified.

“Most villagers in the remote area had fled to the nearby town," he said, accusing the military and a rival pro-junta militia of carrying out reprisal killings and looting.

Twelve more bodies had been found on July 30, including a 14-year-old, and all showed signs of heavy bruising, The Irrawaddy newspaper reported, citing residents.

Earlier in July, 16 bodies were found near another village in the area and a further 12 in other areas, the paper said.

Reuters reported last month that at least seven bodies had been found and militia groups were searching for more.

The militia member also put the total number of bodies so far at around 40, found on several occasions.

The Myanmar Now news portal said that, in the most recent discovery, the victims were found covered by a sheet under a burned hut and were starting to decompose.

A military information newsletter dated July 30 said security forces had been attacked by around 100 “terrorists" with small arms near Zeepindwin village in Kani. It said soldiers had retaliated and nine bodies had been retrieved, along with hunting rifles, homemade mines and a grenade.

Security forces have killed at least 946 people since the coup, according to the Assistance Association of Political Prisoners, a Thai-based activist group. The junta has disputed the tally and also said many members of the security forces have been killed.

By: CNN-News18



NAB nabbed 2 drung traffickers

 NAB nabbed 2 drug traffickers ;  1 from Ukl 

The HungHao

UKHRUL,Aug'6,021:   Narcotics and Affairs of Border (NAB), Manipur has nabbed two drug traffickers from different places of the state.

One of the drug dealers was apprehended from Gwaltabi foothill area of Imphal-Ukhrul road on Wednesday while the other was apprehended from Mantripukhri on Thursday.

The first one was identified as Vareihao Tinphei, 62, son of late Zurrei Tinphei, resident of Shangshak Phunghon village, Ukhrul district.

The second one was identified as Anil Kumar Gupta, 49, son of Rain Gopal Gupta, resident of 49, Rohiti Tola, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh.

Tinphei was nabbed when two teams of NAB went towards the foothills along Imphal — Ukhrul Road for surveillance of suspected poppy and ganja cultivation on Wednesday afternoon.

In the surveillance one Alto Car bearing registration number WB-02Q-7488 was seen coming towards Imphal at Gwaltabi foothill area. Due to suspicious nature, the vehicle was stopped and checked, superintendent of police/NAB public relation officer, Manipur Police department, Imphal told reporters here on Thursday.

Tinphei was found carrying a black polyethene bag containing 10 packets of suspected articles. He stated that those were some edible items. Due to suspicious nature, the small packets were checked and they were suspected to be brown sugar. Accordingly, testing kit and weighing machine were called and when tested the articles were found to be Brown Sugar, weighing approximately 5 kg. He was arrested and the Brown Sugar was seized along with the Alto Car and other incriminating items including his mobile phone on spot verification, the senior officer said.

Tinphei revealed that the suspected contraband brown sugar was delivered to him by three persons in the ManipurNagaland border. He took it to Ukhrul district and tried to sell it at Imphal at an opportune time, he added.

It is confirmed that an interstate gang is involved in the drug smuggling. Further investigation is carried on to establish the chain of drug trafficking and to arrest other associates. A case has been registered at NAB-PS, Manipur, the officer said.

Meghachandra said the value of the drug seized from Tinphei would worth Rs 50 lakh in the local market. However, it would value upto Rs 5 crore in the international market once it is refined.

Anil was apprehended with about 1 kg of Brown Sugar from his possession, which was concealed in a white flower pot.

He revealed that he has been indulging in this drug business since the past. He is a part of Inter-state drug trafficking gang whose top leader is presently in Uttar Pradesh. A case has been registered at NAB-PS, Manipur for further investigation, Meghachandra said.

Manipur is a state close to Golden Traingle, having porous border with numbers of alternative routes in Manipur connecting Myanmar. Hence, smugglers have the advantage to avoid the routes that have VN security posts, he added.

Meghachandra appealed to the people to inform police if any suspect of existence of drug dealers are present in their areas.

(photo courtesy;Shaheer) 

Mnp CM on Naga issue

Solution for Naga issue expected soon;  Mnp CM N Biren Singh

The HungHao

 Aug'6, 021: WITH State Assembly elections just months away, Manipur is expecting an amicable solution for troubles in areas dominated by the Naga community soon.

When asked about peace in the state Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said that solution is expected soon for the Naga issue.

Manipur is affected by disturbances in its neighbouring state. Recently, the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isaac - Muivah) faction called for a shutdown in Naga dominated areas of Manipur.

"NSCN (IM) is a very chronic issue and prayer is to have a peaceful solution without affecting the neighbouring states," said Manipur Chief Minister.

Singh further said, "We are aspiring for an amicable solution. For now, talks are happening between NSCN (IM) and the Centre. We are expecting a solution very soon. This won't affect elections, however. Also, resolution, whatever that may be, should not impact any neighbouring state," said the CM.

Singh is in the national capital to seek financial assistance for an infrastructure project lying incomplete and has met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to invite him to inaugurate these projects ahead of polls.

"I met Prime Minister, Home Minister, Defence Minister and Finance minister. I apprised them about the prevailing issues in the state. We have issues related to railways. The projects got delayed due to COVID-19. Main buildings in Imphal should be completed before elections are announced. For Ghar Ghar Jal scheme we need some financial assistance," said Singh.

The Chief Minister said that he has invited Prime Minister for the inauguration of many projects. "As we are going on the battlefield I sought the senior leaders' blessings," he added.

The chief Minister said before Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, Manipur was a troubled state with issues like insurgency and hill division and faced shut down and bandhs around the year. "We worked with civil society and the Central government extended support. We are going harmoniously forward," he added.

Speaking on the tension between Assam and Mizoram and whether it has an impact on Manipur or not, Chief Minister called the incident "unfortunate".

Everything happened because of a misunderstanding. The solution is being worked out. The impact won't spill over to other states. Everyone is ours," said Singh.

Speaking about the situation of COVID in his state, Singh claimed that there was no casualty due to a shortage of oxygen and that neighbouring states like Assam helped the state with the supply of oxygen. However, Manipur is becoming self-reliant in oxygen now, he added.

"We have established four to five plants within five months including cryogenic liquid medical oxygen plant. There are a few more to be inaugurated. There were cases of death due to COVID it was mainly because of comorbidities people had," informed Singh who also praised the Centre for extending help with supplying the vaccines as the positive rate of COVID cases is high in the state.

"I have requested the Centre to send a team to the State. Yesterday, the ministry issued an order and are monitoring the situation. However, we are improving gradually. Within September, we are hoping to vaccinate 80 to 90 per cent of the population in the state," said Singh.

Source:ANI



RIIN imple delayed

 RIIN implementation delayed due to COVID-19, says Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio

The HungHao

Aug'5, 2021: mplementation of the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) has got delayed due to COVID-19.

This was informed by Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio recently in the State Assembly. Rio said that necessary discussions with the civil society organisations for implementation of RIIN got delayed because of the pandemic.

After discussions with civil society organisations, a report would be tabled in the Assembly for discussion, the Nagaland chief minister informed.

Officials of tea gardens, oil companies in Assam may fall prey to insugent groups' abduction bid!

RIIN aims at preventing 'outsiders' from obtaining fake indigenous certificates for seeking jobs and benefits of government schemes.

Meanwhile, the Joint Committee for Prevention of Illegal Immigrants (JCPI) has accused the Nagaland government of 'deliberately missing' the 'right time' to table the Banuo Commission's report on RIIN in the Assembly.

The JCPI has demanded "documentation and authentication of any indigenous Inhabitants certificate issued henceforth".

"If the creation of RIIN is to prevent issuance of fake indigenous inhabitant certificates, safety measures should be taken as thousands of such certificates will be issued after the recent results of the post matriculation and secondary boards," it stated.



Pentagon Experimenting AI

 The Pentagon Is Experimenting With AI That Can Predict Events 'Days in Advance'

Aug, 5,2021:  If you're wondering just how advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems are getting, then know this: the US military is testing an experimental AI network tasked with identifying likely future events worthy of closer attention, and days before they occur.

The series of tests are called the Global Information Dominance Experiments (GIDE), and they combine data from a huge variety of sources, including satellite imagery, intelligence reports, sensors in the field, radar, and more.

Cloud computing also plays an important part in this setup, making sure that vast chunks of data collected from all over the world can be processed efficiently, and then accessed by whichever military officials and agencies need them.

"GIDE, the Global Information Dominance Experiments, embodies a fundamental change in how we use information and data to increase decision space for leaders from the tactical level to the strategic level – not only military leaders, but [it] also gives opportunity for our civilian leaders," US Air Force General Glen D. VanHerck explained in a press briefing last week.

The idea is to anticipate the moves of other nations way ahead of time, which means deterrents and precautions can be put in place before the fighting starts, or before hostilities have a chance to ramp up.

In fact, the jumps in logic aren't as huge as you might think – if preparations are being made for a submarine to leave port, for example, then it's fairly obvious it's on its way out to sea. Where the AI really helps is in using machine learning to spot and collate all this information much more quickly than human operatives can.

Another example is the number of cars in a car park, at a military base or research station perhaps. If the AI sees increased activity, it can flag this to other parts of the system, where it's then analyzed as part of a massive data set.

"The data exists," said VanHerck. "What we're doing is making that data available, making that data available and shared into a cloud where machine learning and artificial intelligence look at it. And they process it really quickly and provide it to decision-makers, which I call decision superiority."

"This gives us days of advanced warning and ability to react. Where, in the past, we may not have put eyes on with an analyst of a GEOINT satellite image, now we are doing that within minutes or near real-time."

Understandably, the US isn't giving too much away about how exactly these new AI systems work, or how they process the information they're gathering, but the end result is more data processed in a quicker time. This third set of GIDE testing was recently completed, and a fourth is planned.

While the experiments sound a bit Minority Report at the moment – people being arrested for crimes before they've been committed – officials are framing them as a form of supercharged information gathering, rather than ways to actually see into the future.

VanHerck stresses that humans are still making all the decisions based on the data that the machine-learning systems produce – and says the AI under development will likely end up de-escalating situations, rather than the opposite.

"The ability to see days in advance creates decision space," said VanHerck. "Decision space for me as an operational commander to potentially posture forces to create deterrence options to provide that to the secretary or even the President."

                                          By- David Nield



Minority students scholarship

 

Ministry of Minority Affairs

Scholarships to Minority Students

PIB Delhi

The Ministry of Minority Affairs implements Pre-Matric, Post Matric, Merit-cum-Means based Scholarship Schemes and Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship Scheme for the educational empowerment of students belonging to six notified minority communities i.e. Buddhist, Christian, Jain, Muslim, Parsi and Sikh in all States/UTs across the country.  During the last seven years more than 4.52 Crore scholarships have been provided to the eligible students belonging to the minority communities, out of which 53 % have been given to the girl students. The number of scholarships approved during the last three years i.e. 2018-19 to 2020-21 are as under:

Year

Number of Scholarship approved

2018-19

66,93,890

2019-20

67,24,551

2020-21

63,40,579

The three Scholarship Schemes being implemented by the Ministry is an ongoing process.
This information was given by the Union Minister for Minority Affairs  Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

*****

Assam-Mizoram Dialogue

 Assam & Mizoram Decide To Pursue ‘Meaningful Dialogue’ To Solve Border Issue*

The HungHao

Aug 5, 2021: ASSAM Border Protection Minister Atul Bora & Minister for Urban Development Ashok Singhal met with Mizoram Home Minister Lalchamliana & MoS Lalruatkima at Aizawl today to chart a way forward to resolve the border dispute brewing between both the states.

The much-anticipated meeting was vital in mending the strenuous relationship between both the states, after the bloody Vairengte clashes which took the life of six Assam Police personnel at the Assam Mizoram border on July 26.

In the joint statement issued after the meeting at Aijal Club, it was agreed by both sides to find ‘lasting solutions’ to the interstate border dispute and to take forward the steps taken by the union home ministry and both the chief ministers. The representatives of the Mizoram Govt also conveyed their condolences on the loss of life on July 26.

Both the state governments have also agreed to maintain peace in the interstate border area welcoming the deployment of a neutral centrally armed police force.

Assam and Mizoram have also decided not to send their respective police and forest protection forces for ‘patroling’, ‘domination’, ‘enforcement’ or for fresh deployment in any of the areas where “confrontation or conflict has taken place between the police forces in recent times,” in the districts of Hailakandi, Cachar, and Karimganj in Assam & Mamit and Kolasib in Mizoram.

Representatives of both sides also agreed to “take all necessary measures to promote, preserve and maintain peace and harmony among the people living in Assam and Mizoram particularly in the border areas.”

Earlier Assam Agriculture Minister Atul Bora who is in charge of Border Protection & Development along with Minister of Housing Ashok Singhal reached Aizawl in a special chartered flight on the morning of August 5.

Before leaving speaking to ANI in Guwahati, Atul Bora expressed hope for a fruitful interaction reiterating “Assam wants to keep the spirit of unity and brotherhood alive”.

Landing in Lenpui Airport they were welcomed warmly by the representatives of the Mizoram Govt later moving to Aijal Club where the discussions took place.

Later speaking to the media the Assam Border Protection Minister said that happenings in Virengte were ‘unfortunate’ and there will be discussions in the future when everything will be “sorted out.” He also appreciated the Mizoram Chief Ministers’ approach that border disputes can be solved amicably.

“Our Chief Minister also desires it (border dispute) should be settled amicably through meaningful dialogue” Bora added.

On being asked about the happenings of Vairengte and the role of the police forces of both sides he declined answering saying he did not want to create controversy for people residing in the border areas.

Mizoram Home Minister Lalchamlina echoed the sentiments. “We should forget the past and move on,” he said answering a query on the disturbances in the border area.

Source: Northeast today. 



Asain news Myanmar Envoy

 Myanmar Envoy Alerts UN To Alleged "Massacre" By Military Junta

Aug 5,021:  UNITED  Nations Myanmar's ambassador to the United Nations, who has refused to leave his post despite being fired after the February coup, has alerted the world body to a "reported massacre" by the military junta.

Kyaw Moe Tun sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday saying 40 bodies had been found in Kani township in July in the Sagaing area of northwestern Myanmar.

The junta has denied the massacre, while AFP has not been able to independently verify the reports due to mobile networks being cut in the remote region.

The representative wrote that soldiers tortured and killed 16 men in a village in the township around July 9 and 10, after which 10,000 residents fled the area.

He said a further 13 bodies were discovered in the days following clashes between local fighters and security forces on July 26.

Kyaw Moe Tun added that another 11 men, including a 14-year-old boy, were killed and set on fire in a separate village on July 28.

In the letter, the ambassador repeated his call for a global arms embargo on the ruling junta and "urgent humanitarian intervention" from the international community.

We cannot let the military keep on doing this kind of atrocity in Myanmar," Kyaw Moe Tun told AFP.

"It is time for the UN, especially the UN Security Council, to take action."

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the army ousted the civilian leadership on February 1, launching a crackdown on dissent that has killed more than 900 people, according to a local monitoring group.

Kyaw Moe Tun has passionately rejected the coup and brushed aside the junta's claims that he no longer represents Myanmar. The United Nations still considers him as the rightful envoy.

The representative was sacked by the junta in February a day after he gave a three-finger salute at the UN General Assembly following an impassioned speech calling for the return to civilian rule.

The "Hunger Games" gesture was widely used by pro-democracy demonstrators.

Kyaw Moe Tun, who has repeatedly called for international intervention to help end unrest in Myanmar, said Wednesday US authorities had boosted his security after an apparent threat was made against him.

"There was a reported threat against me," he told AFP.

"The police and the security authorities here in New York are working on it," he added, without giving details about the nature of the threat.

Myanmar's junta chief said on Sunday elections would be held and a state of emergency lifted by August 2023, extending the military's initial one-year timeline announced days after the coup.

Source:NDTV



Mnp CM meets PM & key Minis

 Mnp CM Biren Singh meets PM Modi & Key Ministers In Delhi; COVID & More Discussed

(Invites PM to inaugurate major projects) 

The HungHao/DIPR

Aug'5, 021:   Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss a wide range of topics. The meeting took place at the PM's official residence at Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi. The prevailing condition of the COVID-19 pandemic along with the state's effort in tackling the situation was discussed during the meeting.

Manipur CM meets key ministers during his visit to capital. 

Chief Minister N Biren Singh is currently camping in New Delhi. He left Imphal on July 31. Expressing his gratitude towards PM Modi and his assistance to help the state recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Biren also highlighted the state's current situation. The State officials also informed that the PM and Biren had a detailed discussion on sectors including roads and bridges, water resources, drinking water supply, building infrastructure, airport development, livelihoods and law and order, amongst others.

PM Modi has given assurance of all possible assistance in Manipur in its efforts to tackle the grim COVID-19 situation. PM Modi further accepted the state chief minister's invitation for laying foundation stones and inaugurate several major projects. The PM also congratulated the CM and the people of Manipur for the excellent performance shown by athletes of the state in the ongoing Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Before this on Tuesday, Biren Singh met Union Home Minister, Amit Shah and Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Manipur's alarming COVID-19 situation

Over one lakh people in Manipur had been affected by COVID-19 taking the cumulative tally to 1,00,625. The virus had claimed the lives of 1,592 people taking the fatality rate to 1.8% against the national average of 1.4%. These figures speak volumes about the prevailing COVID-19 situation in the state, despite restrictions being in place for three months and partial or total curfew having been imposed by the state government to prevent the spread of the pathogen. The COVID-19 situation in the state is grim with a rapid rise in infection since the second wave of the pandemic. Last month (July), the state witnessed the peak of the second wave with an average of 1000-mark daily infections and over 10 fatalities daily.



Assam Nagaland border

 Assam - Nagaland withdraws its Police forces from Border areas.

The HungHao

Aug' 2021:   THE dismantling and withdrawal of all temporary huts, tents, bunkers and disengagement of security forces from both Assam and Nagaland at Vihoto area, Vikuto village was completed yesterday. 

The process was completed under the supervision of the joint committee that was set up earlier by both Assam and Nagaland.. The dismantling of camps and withdrawal of troops, was initiated on Monday, was delayed due to heavy rainfall. 

It may be mentioned that the Chief Secretaries of Nagaland and Assam signed an agreement on July 31 to de-escalate the tense situation prevailing in the border area and withdraw police forces from.

-(Photo Courtesy: PTC, Mokokchung) 



PMJAY 5Lakhs Free insu for children U18

 PMJAY Ayushman Bharat Yojana 2021

 (Centre Announces Free Health Insurance of Rs 5 Lakh For Children U 18) 

The HungHao

New DelhiAug' 5,021:  ALL children up to 18 years of age who were affected by Covid-19 will be provided free health insurance up to Rs 5 lakh by the Centre under Ayushman Bharat PradhanMantri - Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), Union Minister Anurag Thakur said in a tweet on Wednesday. More than 13 crore families could benefit from this scheme, which was announced during the Monsoon Session of the Parliament.

As part of the steps taken to take care of children affected by #COVID19, children up to 18 years will be provided free health insurance of Rs 5 lakhs under Ayushman Bharat and its premium will be paid by PM Care," the Union Minister tweeted today.

Beneficiary families for the free health scheme have been selected on the basis of SECC 2011 database for deprivation and occupational criteria in both, rural and urban scenarios. The health insurance premium will be paid from the PM-CARES fund and it will cover secondary and tertiary healthcare hospitalizations of the children.

The Ministry of Health had earlier noted that Ayushman Bharat would provide an insurance cover of up to Rs. 5 lakhs per family every year.

(Pic; courtesy Shaheer) 

National:India-France Rafale-Fighter Jet

 .

What Is The India-France Rafale Fighter Jet Deal All About?

OUTLOOK

5AUG.2021.

AS India continues to embark on modernizing its aging military amid ongoing geopolitical challenges, one of Delhi's biggest defense deals continues to draw controversy years after it was concluded.

In 2015, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the landmark defense deal with French aviation company Dassault to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets to refurbish India's rusting air force.

In late July, India's Defense Minister Ajay Bhatt told media that deliveries of the aircraft were on schedule, with 26 having arrived in India so far. The remaining jets are expected by the end of 2021.

However, the deal, worth €7.8 billion ($9.4 billion), has been mired by allegations of corruption and cronyism.

On July 2, France opened a judicial investigation into corruption allegations, according to the national financial prosecutors' office (PNF).

The investigation was prompted by a report by the French investigative website Mediapart, which claimed that "millions of euros of hidden commissions" were given to a middleman who helped Dassault conclude the sale.

Some of the money may have also been given as bribes to Indian officials, the report claimed.

Dassault has said its audits have uncovered no financial malfeasance.

What is the Rafale deal?

Modi's 2015 deal came years after India's United Progressive Alliance (UPA), led by the opposition Congress party, led negotiations with Dassault after the French company was chosen as the winner in 2012 of India's Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) competition, which was intended to supply 126 aircraft to the Indian military.

However, negotiations between the UPA and Dassault stalled over disagreements that 108 of the planes would be produced in India by the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Dassault had concerns over technology transfer to the Indian aerospace company, along with doubts over HAL's capacity to produce the complex aircraft.

Modi's new deal, worth €7.8 billion, came as somewhat of a surprise amid reports that the original deal was close to being finalized.

However, after a meeting in April 2015 between Modi and then French President Francois Hollande, it was announced that 36 Rafale jets would be delivered from France to India in flying condition. The MMRCA tender for the 126 jets was scrapped in July 2015.

Ater it was finalized in 2016, Modi's new fighter jet deal was touted as a major victory in cutting through red tape by his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which used the occasion to showcase the prime minister as a skilled negotiator.

Why is Modi's Rafale deal controversial?

However, Modi's political opponents in the Congress party quickly stepped up criticism of the BJP government, saying the jet purchase was India's "biggest ever" corruption scandal.

Congress alleged the BJP government was paying a lot more than the UPA government had negotiated for the jets, and that the BJP was favoring private business over public enterprise.

These accusations were centered on Reliance Aerospace, a conglomerate headed by Anil Ambani, a businessman with close ties to Modi.

Reliance, which had no prior experience in aeronautics, replaced HAL as the Indian partner in the deal. The company had been registered just 12 days before Modi announced the deal in April 2015.

A so-called offset requirement, which was included in the deal to promote research and development in the Indian defense industry, raised eyebrows, as Reliance reportedly stood to gain a chunk of the money reinvested into India through a joint partnership with Dassault.

The offset obligations required Dassault to reinvest 50% of the deal's earnings back into India's defense sector.

In a joint statement in 2016, the companies said that the joint venture would be a "key" part in the completion of offset obligations.

Private vs. public profits

The involvement of the private company Reliance over the public enterprise HAL, which had been selected as a "lead integrator" in the previous deal, was criticized by opposition parties.

Critics accused Modi of crony capitalism and the government of favoring big businesses.

Amit Cowshish, a former financial adviser of acquisition at the Defense Ministry, told DW that HAL had been chosen as a production partner to make jets in India, while Reliance was chosen as a partner for the sole purpose of fulfilling the offset obligation.

Under the Modi's revamped deal, no aircraft would be made in India, although Dassault would still have to fulfil its offset obligations.

The Congress party has repeatedly requested the creation of a joint parliamentary committee to investigate allegations of fraud. However, India's Supreme Court ruled out investigating the allegations in 2018, and rejected pleas to re-examine its judgment in 2019.



ICC Info Portal launched

 

Government today launched the Indian Customs Compliance Information Portal for providing free access to information on all Customs procedures and regulatory compliance.

The Central Board for Indirect Taxes and Customs said, it will handle nearly 12 thousand Customs Tariff Items. The portal www.cip.icegate.gov.in/CIP is yet another facilitation tool to empower the business as well as any interested person with up-to-date information on the legal and procedural requirements of Customs for carrying out imports and exports.

The portal will also provide complete knowledge of all import and export related requirements for all items covered under the Customs Tariff.



SP National unity award

 

                      D   I   P   R  
                 PRESS RELEASE

NOMINTATION FOR SARDAR PATEL NATIONAL UNITY AWARD

Nominations/recommendations are invited for the highest civilian award in the field of contribution to the unity and integrity of India ‘Sardar Patel National Unity Award, 2021’.

Eligible citizens/institutions may submit their details to State Home Department by 7th August, 2021 in the format available on the website www.nationaluntityawards.mha.gov.in, designed for this purpose.

It may be mentioned that the award is instituted by the Government of India and it will be announce on the occasion of the National Unity Day, i.e, 31st October, 2021. The Sardar Patel National Unity Award seeks to recognize the notable and inspiring contributions made by the citizens/institutions of India to promote the cause of national unity and integrity and to reinforce the value of a strong and united India. All citizens of India without distinction of religion, race, caste, gender, place or birth, age or occupation and any institutions/organizations are eligible for the award.

Mass Vaccination speed up

 Out of over 30 lakhs population 13.5 lakhs people vaccinated 

(State health dept'authority speed up Mass vaccination ) 

Ukhrul vac in action

The HungHao
UKHRUL,Aug'4,2021:   THE global pandemic  Covid -19 cases is still unable to bring down in the state, the authority has speed up mass Covid -19 vaccination across the state.

So far, as many as 13,47,537 people above the age of 18 has been vaccinated in the state. The total population of the state is around 30 lakhs. That means thet state authority has successfully vaccinated around 60% of the total population. 

However,the number of people who gets second dose vaccine stands at around 3 lakhs as of today(4th Aug'21). 

Around 12 lakhs people have got the first dose population.

The state had lost as many as 1592 people due to Covid -19. Of  this 36 people were succumbedt to Covid 19 in the last three days of August.

With an aimed to gain herd Immunity state health department authority had speeded up the mass vaccination programme in association with respective constituencies MLAs and local CSOs members.

Loktak Essay Competition

 

ONLINE
ESSAY COMPETITION

                   

The Loktak Lake of Manipur

Open to the Citizens of Manipur Only

Last Date:
31 August 2021, 7 pm (IST)

Dedicated to late Khangembam Ibohal Singh (1957-2016) by his son Somorendro, daughter-in-law Indira, and granddaughters Thadoi and Nganthoi.

Prizes:

1st prize Rs. 5000
2nd prize Rs. 3000
3rd prize Rs. 2000
Every participant receives a certificate

Organised by:
Campaign for Peace & Democracy (Manipur)

Supported by: (1) KanglaOnline, (2) Yaol Publishing London, (3) Beyond the Horizon, and (4) Gateway Trading Academy, Imphal.

WhatsApp Contact: +918447342687

************************

TIPS OF WRITING
The Loktak

“Loktak Lake is considered the lifeline of the State of Manipur due to its importance in the socioeconomic and cultural life of the people. A large population living in and around the lake depends upon the lake resources for their sustenance. The lake is rich in biodiversity and has been designated as a wetland of International Importance under Ramsar Convention in 1990.” Loktak, 1 (October, 1999)

Focus:
* Loktak lake and its relation with the Manipur river system.
* Loktak biodiversity before the commission of Loktak Project 1983.
* Socio-economic relation between Loktak and People after 1983.
* Phumdis as economic resource?
* Economic problems and hardships of those dependent on Loktak.
* Ownership of Loktak water, phumdis, tourist places, and infrastructures.
* Are you aware of the Chinampa farming system? Can it be applied to develop a sustainable Loktak eco-system? Can Loktak feed the entire Manipur?

************************

RULES AND TIPS OF PARTICIPATION:

The essay competition is opened to:
* the people of Manipur only

Submission rules:
Submission rules:
* Submit application form to given link.

* Obtain registration number and link to submit essay online.
* Essay may be written in either English or Manipuri (roman script).
* Essay should be sent as text in MS word file formate.
* Essay should be written between 2500 and 3000 words.

Selection procedure:
* The organizer may reject an application or essay that does not fulfil the submission rules.
* A registration number will be issued to an approved applicant.
* All essays will be examined to select the best ten essays.
* Candidates of the ten best essays will be interviewed online.
* The total marks scored by a candidate in the essay and interview will determine the result.

Form submission link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScFHiKkDyKbWjjOrn9pR3VXJLCvLJx7gB0GEoVxUORAwUDL1w/viewform?usp=sf_link

TNL observed 6 Anni of FA

 TNL observed 6 Anniversary of Indo- Naga Framework Agreement

The HungHao

UKHRUL,Aug'3,2021:   THE Naga political movement is all about land and it's people because land represents economic, political and social power and identity of the people. People’s based revolutionary movement revolves around the land. Significantly, land is the driving force of the people’s movement said TNL. 

The 6th anniversary observation of 'FA' was organised by Tangkhul Naga Long(TNL) at it's conference hall, View land, Ukhrul and  participated by  various frontier organization of the district. 

Former director of Tangkhul Theological Association (TTA) Dr. YL Mingthing was the chief guest and president TNL Qr. Hopinson A. Shimray gave the welcome address  during the program. 

Earlier before the participants enter the hall they assembled at the TNL gate and hoisted the Naga 'National Flag'  symbolize the covenant between God and Naga people to make Nagalim captivatingly enchanting.

 No wonder Nagalim geographical structure is endowed with various tribes that share a common traced origin and historical tradition. They are culturally homogeneous, inhabit a common contiguous territory and have a common desire and expressed free will to exist as one people, explains one elders. 

"Nagalim” when translated in significantly, the primary goals of the Naga nationhood are sovereignty, territorial integrity and political identification. NSCN have already defined Nagas’ political goals by signing the historic Framework Agreement (FA) with the Government of India on the 3rd August, 2015. Consequently, we shall stand the ground to defend FA in letter and spirit  the chief guest amplified. 

Meanwhile, the 12 hours total shutdown call by UNC in Nagas areas and GPRN/NSCN(IM) in Nagalim was concluded peacefully without any untowards incident till the time of filing of this reports. 

Nagalim

 NAGALIM VOICE

POLITICAL VALUE OF LAND

THE Naga political movement is all about land and people because land represents economic, political and social power and identity of the people. People’s based revolutionary movement revolves around the land. Significantly, land is the driving force of the people’s movement. Our political movement is deeply rooted in the God’s given land and political identity. Importantly, Nagalim have a strong emotional hold in our hearts, politically and spiritually as symbolized by the Naga national flag. Naturally, land ownership is our God’s given right. No wonder our land is the springboard of Naga revolutionary movement towards determining our political destiny.

Naga areas are never part of India. The Government of India (GoI), however, argued that taking over Naga area is a matter of hereditary prerogative right from the British. This is most unjustified and ridiculous. The factual historical accounts stated that only small areas of territories came under the British rule, known as the “Naga Hills District”. The British established their authority over the Naga Hills District in 1879, after the last major battle between the Nagas and the British in Khonoma. Nevertheless, in most places, the Nagas remained free from the British rule and were able to retain physical ownership of their territories. These were known as “Free Naga Territories” which remained entirely self-governing and independent, even when India attained independence from the British Empire in 1947.

So, the fact remains that the occupation of Naga territories is illegal and unjustified by any international human rights narrative.

It is pertinent to assert that in the current Naga revolutionary movement, upholding the right of the Nagas for territorial integrity of Nagalim is crucially important as people crave for a new life and a new political rebirth. Certainly, revolutionary people who carried the mandate of their people anticipated new elements of pride, confidence and hope through political settlement with the Government of India.

The Naga national flag symbolize the covenant between God and Naga people to make Nagalim captivatingly enchanting. No wonder Nagalim geographical structure is endowed with various tribes that share a common traced origin and historical tradition. They are culturally homogeneous, inhabit a common contiguous territory and have a common desire and expressed free will to exist as one people.

The Nagas persistently defended their dignity and freedom connected to their lands, upholding the rights to decide their own destiny. They were never conquered by any external power. Those days Nagas had very little contact with the people beyond their natural territory of existence until they came into contact with the British Empire.

God blessed the Naga people with a geo-political strategic region where three great states of India, China and Burma (now Myanmar) intersect. Nagalim also stands as the link between the two regions of South Asia and South East Asia and share close physical, social, cultural affinity and habits with South East Asian cultures.

The Nagas live in a compact area of about 120,000 square kilometers (sq. kms.) on Patkai Range that spreads approximately between the Longitudes 92. 5E and Latitudes 23. 5N and 28. 5N. It is bounded in the North by China, in the West by Assam (India), in the South by Manipur Valley and Mizoram (India) and the Chin Hills (Burma), in the East beyond the Chindwin River and along its tributary Uyu River (Burma).

When the Nagas refer to Nagalim they mean the entire homeland inhabited by the Nagas which was partitioned by the British between two states- India and Burma. The Indian state occupied the western and central parts while the Burmese state occupies the eastern parts of Nagalim. Without the consent and knowledge of the Nagas, India and Burma imposed a physical and technical “international boundary line” to divide and rule over the Naga people and their lands. 

The Indo-Burma “international line” which was formalized only in 1972, arbitrarily runs through houses and villages. In fact, in Longwa village of the Konyak Nagas, the international boundary cuts through the middle of Angh’s (Village Chief) house.

As part of the policy of occupation, the Indian State further fragmented Naga territories under its occupation. Though a contiguous compact geographical area, the Naga territories have been placed under four Indian administrative states: Nagaland, Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh. The Nagas are a minority in the latter three states and a majority in the first one. 

Out of the total Naga Homeland of 120,000 sq. Kms, an area of 16,579 sq. Kms. was carved out to form the present “state of Nagaland” in 1963 to create the impression that the Nagas has accepted to join the Union of India. The Nagas under Burmese occupation have also been divided under two states, Sagaing Province and Kachin State.

“Nagalim” when translated in the English language means “Nagaland” refers to the whole Naga homeland. Nagalim is the political vision that transcends all artificial state boundaries imposed by India and Burma; and represents the sovereign rights and will of all the Nagas to live as one unified geographical entity which is free from all forms of subjugation, exploitation and domination.

Significantly, the primary goals of the Naga nationhood are sovereignty, territorial integrity and political identification. NSCN have already defined Nagas’ political goals by signing the historic Framework Agreement (FA) with the Government of India on the 3rd August, 2015. Consequently, we shall stand the ground to defend FA in letter and spirit. There is no other way forward.

Importantly, geopolitics cannot be understated as it places a critically strategic factor towards fulfilling the desire of the Naga people to live together as one people under one administrative system with sovereign identity as defined in FA. Thus, to acknowledge geopolitics that arranges determined guidelines for achieving strategic political advantage, preventing conflict and coming to an amicable solution as good neighbours (Nagalim and India) is the stress we have laid while signing the historic FA.

Ura Uvie

AR organised Save Shirui mega tree plantation

 

Assam Rifles organised  Mega Tree plantation at Shirui Peak

(Under the banner of 'Save Shirui' AR Somsai Bn Ukl initiated go green mission at Shirui kashong ) 

The HungHao

UKHRUL, Aug'2,021:   SOMSAI  Battalion of Assam Rifles under the aegis of IGAR (S) and Ukhrul Forest Division organised a joint Tree Plantation Drive at Shirui kashong Tourists park one kilometre from the main road of Ukhrul- Jessami National Highway, here today. 

Nevertheless,as part of preserving the majestic abode of famous Shirui Lily flower and it's  ecological balance the onus was carried out by the AR  with an aim to promote ‘Go Green Initiative’ and spread awareness about climate change and global warming amongst the villagers and the troops and also to educates them about the importance of trees in maintaining the ecological equilibrium. 

Over 4000 saplings of different types of tree saplings were planted by local youths, villagers and AR troops lead by Commandant Col. Ripon Bora, Shangam, IFS, DFO Ukhrul division and Shirui village headman and his VA's amongst other. 

Mnp Fertilizer

 No shortage of fertilizer in state;  Minister Lukhoi rules out 

The HungHao

 Aug'2, 2021:  OVER 1,78,093 bags of Urea fertilizers  have been distributed  to the state farmers as of today informed MANIPUR Agriculture minister Oinam Lukhoi Singh. 

While briefing the media at his office at Old Secretariat on Monday  Lukhoi ruled out any possible shortage of fertilizers in the state.He urged the farmers to avail the fertilizers by providing required documents through concern district agriculture officers.

Urea fertilizers are given to the farmers at a subsidized rate of Rs 266.80 per 45 kg. It is clearly mentioned in Clause 3 (3) of the Fertilizer (Control) Order 1985 that no dealer, manufacturer or pool handling agency shall sell or offer for sale any fertilizers at a price exceeding the maximum price or rate fixed under this clause, the minister said.

As per the Fertilizer (Control) Order 1985, only registered certificate/license holders can carry out the sale of fertilizer. The department strictly monitors the unauthorized sale of fertilizers at a high rate and action will be taken against those found guiltyguilty, the minister adds.

Furthur, he agriculture minister reiterated on maintaining transparency by the concerned officials and staff while distributing the fertilizers to the farmers as it is the sole responsibility of the government to always work for the welfare of the farmers in our state.

Meanwhile, Lukhoi expressed his gratitude to Farmers Group for their constructive ideas and suggestions for the welfare of all the farmers of the state. 



Pl. don't test our resilience Article

 PLEASE DON'T TEST OUR RESILIENCE

                         ~Diki Fanai

     

 The question "Who shot first?" is no longer a bone of contention. There is a video clip that reveals the truth. But, another pertinent question has emerged in the continuing  Mizoram/Assam conflict and the rhetorics voiced.Is there an attempt to pull back some of the states in the North- East to the colonial past?We have seen what happened in J&K.

   Lies after lies are being spread about what actually happened on 26th July 2021 at Vairengte within Mizoram on social media and some National channels. Now our Rajya Sabha  member is alleged to be the conspirator and his speech on TV interview as inflamatory. ( Our support to him)

      The CM of Assam said he will deploy 4000 commandos  in the border. Isn't this inflamatory too? He offers Rs 5 lakhs to any person who could identify those who had killed the Assam police men ( Our condolences to the families of the Assam police. It was an unnecessary loss of lives) Does the the CM of Assam think anyone could identify whose bullet hit who in a cross- fire? Could his IGP and the DC who accompanied the 200 policemen and the hundred plus civilians from Lailapur do so? OR Is this the Assam CM's  attempt to humiliate our people and and our policemen hoping that  somebody would jump to the offer and betray his fellow- men. Would they know also? The Assam CM needs to understand the context where cross- firing takes place.

       When the worst Mautam Famine took place in the late 1950s in Mizoram. We were still a district in Assam. A Mizo delegation went down to Gauhati to meet Mr Chaliha ,the then CM of Assam for help. He offered them a sumptuous dinner but they refused because their people( Mizo people) were impacted by the famine. Finally ,at the fag end of the famine,food supply were dropped by air. BUT THE MIZO SURVIVED.

          This was followed by a 20 year long insurgency.

1. Parents who sent their children outside Mizoram  to continue their education to Meghalaya/ Nagaland/ Half long had to bundle their children at the back of  trucks and they were spat upon at Cachar. Coming home for holidays to Mizoram was a test of endurance.The 7 to 8 hours journey only took 1 week escorted by a military convoy. BUT WE SURVIVED.

2. Our villages were burned and the villagers were forced to live at different Village Grouping Centres with minimal sustenance. BUT WE SURVIVED

3. Our Mizo men were arrested in hoards ( civilians) and put in prison. Men in the villages were hung upside down in the open air with chillies burnt under them. BUT WE SURVIVED.

4. Our women were raped and recovered fully without any psychological impact . ( The only one who didn't survive was Vanengzampuii, a mentally retarded woman) who was raped an gagged to death at Chanmari,a locality in Aizawl by the CRPF who were on duty during Curfew hours.Yet WE STILL SURVIVED.

5. To cut it short, when the Peace Accord was signed in 1986, we accepted it with humiliation because we are peace- lovers.

We are intelligent enough to understand the humiliation of being given:-

a) a statehood

b) a Central University

c) a seperate Judicial system as part of the conditions of the Peace Accord. ( None in the states of the Indian Union has earned this with their blood. They were given on  platters.) Bearing our humiliation in Silence WE STILL SURVIVE.

       We are not against the Assamese people. We do have close friends in Assam and all over India who comfort and  support us through their calls now.

    However,the destruction of the railway tracts ,the paid protests and Bandh denote what your strategies are Mr CM of Assam. Do whatever you want. Spread the lies. Continue to make your false allegations. Our RESILIENCE AND DEFIANCE will grow stronger if you continue to touch upon the apples of our eyes. And WE WILL SURVIVE.

Women car Mec Kebu Mansa fr. Nagaland

 INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (IHRC) TUENSANG ACKNOWLEDGES 'SMTI KEBU MANSA'- CAR MECHANIC.

The HubgHao

WHEN the whole Nation/State is going around, running from pillar to post in search of employment opportunities and earn their livelihood but here, Smti Kebu Mansa, a mother of three children stands out beating all odds of gender bias in rigid Patriarchal society of Nagaland.

Mansa is a talented and a hard-working women working as a Machanic in all sort of Petrol running Vehicle.

She lives in a small rented house with her family. Her husband Namang also works in the same garage. Mansa is a native of Tuensang Village and since childhood, she was intrigued and always had a curiosity to fix things.

IHRC Tuensang salutes her and pay highest respect to her and her family for standing against all odds of the society and setting up an example for the people.

Mansa's repair shop is located in the heart of TUENSANG TOWN NEAR NST BUS STATION.

Citizen are requested to visit her repair shop in any kinds of despair and encourage her.



Inter news Indo-China

 

International news

Positive indications' post Indo-China 12th round talks at Moldo

The HungHao

Following the 12th round of military-level talks between the Indian Army and the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Saturday, sources said a possibility of disengagement from Gogra, Hot Springs near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) may take shape.

The meeting began at 10.30 am and ended at 7.30 pm at Moldo on the Chinese side of the LAC. Sources acquainted with the development has termed it to be the shortest meeting as of yet that went on for about nine hours between military delegates of both sides. However, it is learnt that an official statement may be issued on Monday deliberating on the outcome of the recent meeting.

It was learnt that the impasse between forces of both countries might have come to an "agreeable position" where disengagement from friction areas such as Gogra, Hot Springs may soon become apparent. The meeting was also to deliberate on solutions to end the impasse at Depsang which initially was not in its priority since it was not considered to be a part of the current standoff that started in May last year. It may be noted that the conflict in Depsang occurred in 2013.

Sources said this decision on part of India was reached after deliberations that sought to conclude it is better to resolve all issues along the LAC once and for all. However, it is yet to be known what decision was made, or whether at all a solution could be found in the 12th round of talks to resolve the Depsang conflict.

The Peoples' Liberation Army (PLA) of China, meanwhile, is using heavy machine guns, a rocket launcher and mortar bombs to train troops in the Tibet region. As per media reports, in the hinterland of the plateau, a certain brigade of the Tibet Military Region is training troops.

Reportedly, the officers and soldiers have crossed the muddy mountains to reach the target area. They utilised weapons such as heavy machine guns, bazookas, and mortars for the battle scenario training.

More than 10,000 China, Russian soldiers will attend joint drills in Ningxia, SCMP reported. Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said on Thursday that the exercise in China's Ningxia Hui autonomous region would take place in early August. It will 'consolidate cooperation' and 'maintain regional peace.'

Sources:The statesman



NEnews MiAss

  North -East news

Mizoram, Assam CMs agree to dial down tensions after HM Shah's intervention

The HungHao, 

Aug 2,2021: ASSAM and MIZORAM have decided to dial down the border tensions following the intervention of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Both the Chief Ministers agreed to resolve the ongoing border disputes amicably through dialogue.

Mizoram's CM Zoramthanga took to the social media and said that the boundary dispute with Assam will be resolved amicably through dialogue.

He referred to his telephonic conversation with Shah and Assam CM, Himanta Biswa Sarma and said that as per the telephonic conversation, we have agreed to resolve the Mizoram-Assam dispute amicably through meaningful dialogue.

Assam set to move Supreme Court to resolve Mizoram border row Later Sarma said, "our main focus is on keeping the spirit of North-East alive. What happened along the Assam-Mizoram border is unacceptable to the people of both the states. Mr Zoramthanga had promised to call me after his quarantine. Border disputes can only be resolved through discussion."

There had been an impasse between the two states following the killing of six Assam Police personnel.

The Centre had said that it wanted a peaceful resolution to the problem and Shah was in touch with both the CMs. Both the state governments are cooperating and the centre has assured that there will not be any more border flare ups.

S

arma later told reporters that he had always wanted peace from the Assam side. We have never tried to encroach on any land. In fact last year when the issue had surfaced, I had only fixed it by means of discussion. The priority of my government is development and these types of incidents are never good, he also said.

Sarma also said that he called his Mizoram counterpart not less than 20 times. He told me that he will talk to me once the quarantine is over. I am sure he will call me back, Sarma also said.

Source: oneindia



First Indian Football captain Talimeren Ao

 On 31 July 1948:

THE first independent India's football team played at London Olympic

                FRANCE  Vs INDIA

France vs India

India lost 2:1

THE Indian Football team, who played BAREFOOT, was led by  Eno. Talimeren Ao from Nagaland. He was also a Doctor by profession.

After his team came close to upsetting fancied France in the 1948 London Olympics, India skipper Talimeren Ao was asked why his team played barefoot. “In India, we play football, whereas you play bootball!” he said, winning the British media over with his wit.

A few years later, Ao stepped into a doctor’s shoes to virtually boot the footballer out of his persona, as did the Naga Hills of Assam that eventually became Nagaland.

But the State has rediscovered the legendary footballer — captain of independent India’s first soccer team in the Olympics — in the year of his birth centenary. Nagaland’s coalition government, headed by Neiphiu Rio, has decided to rename the Indira Gandhi Stadium in the capital Kohima after Talimeren Ao.

Many, including his wards, would rather have a new stadium named after him, lest a government in the future should revert to the stadium’s original name.

How did he play for India?

Very few footballers have gone on to become doctors. Ao was not just an exception; in 1950, he became the first Naga to complete his MBBS. That was two years after the most glorious phase of his life as the first Naga Olympian. But a foul by an opponent in a club-level competition had threatened to end his career before it had begun in 1938. He had joined Guwahati’s Cotton College — the best in the Northeast since 1901 — for his intermediate science that year, was elected general secretary (athletics and sports) of the college and became a regular in the college football team. In a match against a local club, a player drove both fists into his jaw as he headed the ball. He spent weeks in hospital but returned the following year to help his college team win all local trophies. He graduated to Kolkata’s Mohun Bagan club while studying at Carmichael Medical College (now R.G. Kar Medical College), helped Bengal win the Provincial Santosh Trophy in 1945 and was offered the captaincy of the Indian football team at the 1948 London Olympics. At Wembley Stadium in London, he was the flag-bearer of the Indian contingent.

Why did he stop?

Young Talimeren was as much inclined to academics as he was to athletics; a lesser-known fact is that he, as a student, held the unofficial Indian long jump record of 23 ft for several years. He was the fourth of Reverend Subongwati Ningdangri and Maongsangla Changkilari’s 11 children, born on January 28, 1918, at Changki village in the Naga Hills of undivided Assam. His love for football did tend to affect his studies, but his father’s death in 1935 — and a dying wish for his son to become a doctor — made him devote as much time to academics as sport. A scholarship from the Assam government in 1942 to study medicine helped him fulfil his father’s wish eight years later. In 1951, still at his prime as a footballer, he hung up his boots. In 1953, he became the medical superintendent at Kohima Hospital, where he treated, and operated on, patients. In 1963, when Nagaland attained statehood, Ao became the first Naga director of health services and held the post till retirement in 1978.

What made him popular again?

In 1968, Ao became a member of the All India football selection committee. But, as the Nagaland Olympic Association says, he did not get the recognition he deserved in his homeland. One of the reasons was probably because he played for India at a time when the Naga struggle for sovereignty had taken root. But the State’s sportspersons rue that Nagaland virtually ignored Ao while West Bengal and Assam revered him, naming a stadium (at Kaliabor) and the Cotton College indoor stadium after him. Ao probably foresaw this, etching his soccer feats in the names of his sons – Talikokchang, meaning ‘he who has excelled’ in the Ao Naga dialect, and Indianoba, meaning ‘one who led India.’ Father, Indianoba said, was too humble to demand attention but welcomed the government’s new-found appreciation for the football legend. “But we would prefer a new stadium to be named after him, not an existing one named after a former Prime Minister,” Talikokchang said.



MPCC ex Prez joins BJP

 

MPCC  Ex- Prez joins BJP 

The HungHao

Imphal, Aug'1,2021: POLITICAL heavy weight and former President of the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee Govindas Konthoujam, who recently resigned from the State As- sembly today joins the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)in the presence of Senior BJP leader and in charge for Manipur Sambit Patra, Chief Minister N Biren Singh, BJP Manipur Pradesh President A Sharda Devi and others atthe BJP Party Headquarterin New Delhi. Union minister of state for educationand foreign affairs Dr RKR anjan Singh and Rajya Sabha MP Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba werea lso present. 

On Sunday morning, BJP spokesperson Anil Balunihad tweeted about Govindas joining the BJP, the tweet reads as “An eminent personality will join @BJP4India today (Sunday)01 August, 12 noon at BJP HQ, 6A DDU Marg, New Delhi.

CM N Biren Singh while addressing the press conference said, With the induction of 5 ministers from NE region, PM Narendra Modihas showed that he cares for the entire North East and promises to make the PM Modi government stronger.

Later on CM N Biren Singh tweeted, “Giving a major boost to bjp Manipur, former Manipur Congress President, Konthoujam joined Bharatiya Janata Party today. In presence of Sambitswaraj , Prabhari, BJPManipur and A ShardaDevi,President BJP Manipur.”Govindas Konthoujam who was the former President of Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee and six time MLA from Bishnupur AC had resigned from the post of President and primary membership of MPCC last week and also submitted his resignation from thestate assembly on July 28.

It may be mention that,the Congress party emerged as the single largest party in 2017 Assembly election with a total of 28 seats. However, the BJP winning just 21 seats formed the government with support from NPP,

NPF, TMC, LJP, a lone independent and a defected MLA from Congress party.With the resignation of Govindas Konthoujam from state assembly, the total legislature of Congress party is again decreased to 16.

Notorious Disturbed Area Act

 NAGALIM VOICE JULY 2021

EDITORIAL

NOTORIOUS DISTURBED AREA ACT

 THE most contemptuous act, “Disturbed Area Act” (DAA) under the ‘Armed Forces Special Powers  Act’ (AFSPA) has become the belligerent policy of the Government of India (GoI) to settle score with the Nagas using the barbarous culture of the Indian Armed Forces. Certainly, the situation does not warrant imposition of such obnoxious act, but the Government of India (GoI) do not care a hoot about Nagaland except to talk through the barrel of guns. Even the ongoing 1997 Indo-Naga ceasefire which the GoI coaxed NSCN to sign after acknowledging the Naga issue as ‘political issue’ and not ‘India’s internal law and order issue’ have had no bearing on the approach of the GoI to change its stand on the application of AFSPA against the Nagas. This is the perverse irony of India always dwelling in the past and not giving a damn even after the peace process has made substantial progress.

Even before Nagaland state was created in 1963, Nagaland was already targeted under Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), given the fact that Nagaland was under India’s illegal occupation.

It may be mentioned that the Disturbed Area Act (DAA)/AFSPA has lost its legal battle in the highest court of justice, the Supreme Court of India. But the GoI’s Defence Ministry simply refused to honour the verdict. More than that, even the official recommendation for repeal of AFSPA initiated by the earlier non-RSS/BJP government has had no effect under this present BJP/RSS dispensation. However, the repeated imposition of DAA despite the peaceful environment is provoking the good thinking of the Naga people. It is no less important to say that anything counter-productive should have been dispensed with in order to re-establish the broken faith of the Naga people against the Government of India who keeps messing up the Naga political issue under one pretext or the other.

Notorious for over indulgence in divisive politics, the GoI is playing with the sentiment of the Naga people by repeatedly imposing DAA against the wishes of the people in Nagaland. Too much of anything like DAA will contribute nothing good other than help create unhealthy claustrophobic atmosphere.

It is exasperating to even think that in a modern civilized democratic society where peace talks is underway under the 1997 ceasefire, such draconian laws should be imposed while the Indo-Naga peace talks is going on. This is the tragic irony of the GoI in dealing with the Indo-Naga political issue.

Significantly, India has acquired a certain notoriety for showing scant respect for United Nations (UN) Universal Declaration of Human Rights that all are equal before the law, and is entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law. If DAA is so important for India, why it is not imposed in other parts of the country like UP where law and order issue is more disturbing and dangerous than Nagaland. It may seem paradoxical, but it would not be too farfetched to say that the Government of India is characteristically abusive towards the Nagas.

Kuknalim!