Flesh Trade industry flourishing in Nagaland is alarming

Morung Express News
Dimapur | May 30

Pubs and restaurants located along the roadside of National Highway 39 at Lahorijan area under Karbi Anglong district, Assam, is fast becoming a flourishing destination for flesh trade.

What was earlier dubbed as a bootlegger’s paradise, particularly for imbibers from dry state Nagaland, it now also caters to customers that fan the sex trade.

This thriving business, which takes place just two kilometer from Nagaland gate, is not a clandestine affair either.
As many as six to seven hotels are involved in the trade, it is learnt.

Waiters at the hotels openly act as ‘procurer’ or ‘pimp’ and the sex workers, referred to as ‘girls’ who arrive from different locations for ‘business’, can be seen lounging in the cabins waiting for customers.

Some can even be heard introducing themselves and inquiring if they (customers) want ‘company.’
Clients are presented a selection palate of an interracial array of girls and women from Nagaland, Manipur, Bokajan, Golaghat, Nepal etc. They are either paraded turn by turn by the waiter or dispatched to the cabin where the client is sitting.

A dingy room somewhere at the far end of the hotel compound is reserved for ‘cohabitation.’ The restaurant provides condom packets, available for Rs. 50 or more.

According to a waiter from one of the hotels involved in the racket, the ‘price of girls’ ranges from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 3000, depending on their looks, age or time required.

He points out that Naga girls are preferred by clients, so they demand a price higher than others. “While price for girls from other communities can start from Rs. 1000, Naga girls start from Rs. 1500,” he revealed. The bigger share of the amount is taken by the hotel’s management. Waiters also receive their cuts.

With an increasing demand for Naga girls, networking tentacles to lure more girls into sex trade, particularly from Dimapur area, have also increased. There have been alleged cases of trafficking where girls were forced into prostitution under the pretext of offering them mainstream jobs.

One waiter bragged he had in his cell phone numbers of ‘dozens of girls; some as young as 17 years and lots of college-going girls from Dimapur, who are ready to arrive the instant they are called.’

He further disclosed that Naga girls do not prefer to do business with Naga clients for fear that they may be identified or the client may be someone they know.

Diverse statuses of people, both young and old, are known to visit these restaurants and pubs looking for a “good time,” with married men and business people topping the clientele, said another source from one of the hotels.

For the waiter-turned-pimps, catering to clients at the hotel is one side of the business. They also hook up clients who wish to be more discreet, and make arrangements for their hotel stay etc.

Like the sprouting of restaurants, a number of stay-in hotels have mushroomed in the area in recent times- more so to cater to sex trade. These hotels have direct contact with call girls.

“Many of these customers are saab wallas (interpreted as high ranking government officials and affluent people) and they prefer special girls - some demanding as high as Rs. 10,000,” another waiter-turned-pimp revealed. “These girls are transported to the hotel in private vehicles,” he added.

Naga girls involved in sex work in Lahorijan are also known to frequent late night pubs in Dimapur. According to a source, some of them do business in Lahorijan till early evening and return to Dimapur to haunt pubs in the midnight.

An NGO field worker confirmed that there are countless women from Dimapur involved in the Lahorijan sex racket- both direct and indirect prostitution. “Many of these Naga girls are engaged in the trade either for pleasure or to buy themselves new clothes, accessories, unlike other sex workers who get involved to feed themselves and their families,” the field worker revealed.

Expedite talks with NE insurgents: Rajnath

INTERNAL SECURITY TOP PRIORITY
Promising “zero tolerance on terror” and to “deal with insurgent groups with a firm hand” as one of the BJP’s 2014 poll manifesto, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has directed the ministry to expedite and complete all pending dialogues with various Northeast insurgent outfits within a specific time frame.

After taking charge as the new Home Minister, Singh held a three-hour long meeting with senior officials wherein he had asked them for an actionable blueprint with regard to internal security as well as ideas to resolve border disputes with neighbouring countries without compromising national interests.

The Home Minister had asked officials to focus on completing the ongoing negotiations with various militant outfits at the earliest, sources said. “The Home Minister made it clear that solutions should not compromise the national security…. He also maintained that the ministry officials should work fast and must show results quickly,” the sources added.
Sources said internal security, Northeast, Jammu & Kashmir, Centre-state relations and Naxal division will be on top of the agenda of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

“All these five division heads were asked to prepare individual presentation related to issues which need immediate attention of the government. The Home Minister made it clear that he needed actionable points and a time-bound plan to implement a particular security programme and has asked the officers to make a list of programmes where his intervention is required,” sources said.
It maybe mentioned that the BJP’s 2014 election manifesto points out that the party would-- “deal with insurgent groups with a firm hand. “Talks with the insurgent groups will be conditional and within the framework of the constitution”.

The meeting was attended by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju, senior officials of the ministry, including Home Secretary Anil Goswami. Sources said that the MHA officials are likely to make another presentation on internal security, North East,Jammu & Kashmir and Left wing extremism.

Meanwhile, heads of three intelligence agencies-- Research and Analysis Wing, Intelligence Bureau and National Technical Research Organisation also met union Home Minister Friday and briefed him about security situation in India and its neighbourhood.

Singh was briefed about their respective organisations, intelligence gathering mechanism and inputs on security situation in the country as well as its neighbourhood, official sources said. During the meeting, the three heads are learnt to have shared information about activities of terrorist groups, militancy in Jammu and Kashmir and insurgency in the Northeast.
Illegal immigration issue: Illegal immigration from Bangladesh was also a major issue discussed during the meeting.

The minister was briefed about the problems along the international border, like infiltration from Bangladesh and the dispute with Pakistan on Sir Creek, and how to resolve them. Singh had asked his officials to let him know what kind of intervention he could make to facilitate inter-ministerial coordination, sanction of funds and ensuring cooperation of Central and state governments.
‘Will ensure security of people from NE’

Taking note of series of harassment of people from the Northeast living in different parts of the country, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said the issue was an area of concern and directed that the security of those hailing from the Northeast must be ensured at any cost.
Singh directed Home Ministry officials to ensure security of the people from Northeast, particularly those living in metros, and said their harassment cannot be tolerated.

Following his order, the Home Ministry will soon issue an advisory to all states, where there are sizeable numbers of people from the Northeast, to sensitize their police and take a serious note of any complaint of harassment, official sources said.
The Ministry of Home Affairs will ask the states to ensure zero tolerance to any such harassment and take speedy steps upon receiving any complaint of atrocity on people from Northeast and deploy adequate security personnel for their protection.
The states will also be asked to hold regular seminar, workshop to sensitize local people about the culture, customs and way of life of the people from the Northeast and respect it.

NP

Ao lanaguage ‘Ao Lanur Reju’ magazine released

First ever magazine to be published by a group of well wishers for the upliftment of Ao lanaguage,  “Ao Lanur Reju” magazine was released by  minister of agriculture Dr. Benjungliba Aier at his residence, Wednesday. 
Speaking on the launching of magazine Dr. Benjungliba lauded the youth for taking the initiative to release the magazine when “everyone was busy with their works”. He also praised the editorial team of the magazine for their relentless works for bringing out the magazine.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by associate pastor Kohima Ao Baptist Church, Rev. I. Yapang Walling.

~NP

‘Delay for decades shoots up cost of five NE projects’

An analysis by the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP), a network of organizations and individuals working on water-related issues, found that the cost of five large irrigation dams in the northeast has escalated manifold in the last three decades even as the projects remained incomplete.
The analysis, “Present Tensed, Future Expensive: Large Irrigation Projects in Northeast India”, said five of the 12 projects have ran into enormous cost escalation and time overrun. “But this focus on the five projects out of 12 should not be taken as an ‘all is well’ certificate for the remaining seven. 
There are significant issues with those projects as well, but from the perspective of time and cost overrun, these five projects present a very critical picture,” the report said.
According to the analysis, the Khuga Multipurpose Project in Manipur’s Churachandpur district was considered in 1980 when the cost of the project was Rs 15 crore.
The cost of the project rose to Rs 433.91 crore in 2012. The Dolaithabi Barrage Project in Manipur was first approved by the Planning Commission in 1992 at an estimated cost of Rs 18.86 crore. SANDRP said the cost increased 19 times in 2012 and the project is yet to be completed even after 22 years. In case of Thoubal Multipurpose Project in Manipur, SANDRP said it was first considered by the Planning Commission in 1980 and the original cost of the project was Rs 47.25 crore, but increased to Rs 982 crore in 2009 and Rs 1387.85 crore in 2012.
SANDRP’s analysis covered two projects in Assam - Dhansiri irrigation project in Darrang district and Champamati irrigation project in Chirang district. The Dhansiri project started in 1975 at an estimated cost of Rs 15.83 crore, SANDRP said. 
Now the project is slated to be completed by March 2015 and the cost has increased 35.82 times over a period of 40 years. The Champamati irrigation project started in 1980 with an original cost of Rs 15.32 crore, but in 2010, the cost increased 20 times. SANDRP said the benefits expected to be derived from these projects would hardly justify the expenses incurred.

NP

 

Need to review 1972 Nagaland and Assam border pact: Thomas

Taking serious note of the ongoing tension along Karbi Anglong and Nagaland border areas, newly sworn-in parliamentary secretary for Border Affairs and Women Development Thomas Lotha Friday said that there was a need to review the 1972 agreement between Assam and Nagaland. 
In an interaction with media persons at his residence, Thomas said that the 1972 agreement was not implemented in toto and the same was not acceptable to the Nagas. 
He said the agreement rather became a tool for the Assam government to strengthen their forces along the border while Nagaland was relegated to a “helpless position” as the state had to oblige to the terms of the agreement.
Fresh agreement should be made that would be accepted by both the state, the parliamentary secretary said.
Thomas, a former Congressmen who won the last assembly election as an Independent candidate, said that there was no need to place the disputed area under the neutral forces. “We need neural forces but so far the neutral forces have been one-sided,” he said.
Thomas also pointed out that the border issue was not confined to Assam and Nagaland only but also with other tribal states bordering Assam. 
There was a need to discuss the “common border issue” and take the issue to a higher level, he added.  
The parliamentary secretary said that his department would take up the issue by inviting the opinions of the other tribal states bordering Assam. 
Thomas also assured that he remained committed to safeguarding the people living in border areas. 
Thomas said that the village councils would be empowered to issue land patta in the border areas under Article 371 (A) by paying “nominal tax” to the government. 
Thomas Lotha said a coordination meeting with the district administration, forest department and land revenue would be held to work out a formula on authorizing the village council to issue land patta. 
Once the patta holders begin paying nominal tax to the government, it would compel the government to protect the land. 
Thomas Lotha said that forest land would also be demarcated by the forest department and added that the policy would be implemented keeping in mind the national perspective. 

Nagaland Post

AI withdraws Silchar-Kolkata services

SILCHAR: On March 15, 2003, Indian Airlines (now Air India) had started operating ATR 42-320 aircrafts on the Silchar-Kolkata and Imphal-Guwahati routes. Much to the dismay of fliers, Air India (AI) announced closure of services on the Silchar route.

Although AI sources confirmed the report on Thursday, the airline didn't explain its reasons for withdrawing flights on the Silchar route.

Sources said the affected aircrafts would be redeployed elsewhere.

Nagaland CM inducts 23 parliamentary secretaries

KOHIMA: A total of 23 parliamentary secretaries were sworn in by Nagaland chief minister T R Zeliang here on Thursday. The oath of office and secrecy were administered by the chief minister in the state banquet hall in Kohima.

Of the 23, eight were inducted for the first time. NPF got the lion's share with 15 parliamentary secretaries. Four Independent secretaries, two from NCP and one each from BJP and JD(U) make up the rest.

BJP's P Paiwang Konyak, JD(U)'s B S Nganlang and NCP's T M Lotha and Khumo found a place among the parliamentary secretaries. The chief minister retained all the parliamentary secretaries of the previous Rio government and added four Independent and two NCP legislators to the ministry.

Of the 8 newly-inducted legislators, two, T M Lotha (NCP) and Thomas Ngullie (Independent), had been ministers previously. The remaining six are first-timers in the state assembly. They are yet to receive their portfolios.

9 killed as massive storm slams Delhi-NCR, causes huge damage

NEW DELHI: At least nine people were killed in the national capital region, including six in Delhi, as a massive thunderstorm lashed the region on Friday crippling road traffic, Metro services and flight operations and hitting power supply.

Delhi Police said six people died and 13 were injured in various areas of the city in accidents like felling of trees, collapse of walls and electrocution following the storm which was accompanied by winds at a speed of over 90kmph.

The storm struck Delhi at 4.58pm immediately throwing normal life out of gear.

Thousands of people were stranded outside Metro stations and on roads as traffic almost came to a halt due the storm which darkened the sky.

Most areas in city plunged into darkness immediately after the storm as uprooted trees snapped power lines. Metro train services were disrupted on almost all lines for about an hour due to power failure during the evening rush time.

Met department attributed the storm to western disturbance over Pakistan. NCR areas of east Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad were most affected by the storm.


(Traffic jam on a Delhi road after the storm)

Met office said similar weather conditions are likely to persist for over the next two days. At least 12 flights were diverted due to the storm, an IGI official said.

Areas in south, east and north Delhi faced long power cuts ranging from one to four hours. Supply of power could not be restored till late in the evening in several areas in north and northwest Delhi.

The city saw massive traffic jams as the storm uprooted trees snapping power lines in many areas and affecting traffic lights leading to chaos on the streets.



"The cumulonimbus (dense towering vertical cloud associated with thunderstorms) brings tall thunderstorms and dusty winds with a speed of over 92kmph and are caused because of western disturbance, which is currently over Pakistan. The meeting of cold air and hot air on the Indo-Gangetic plains causes low pressure area and also lot of instability. This results in severe thunderstorm," IMD director general LS Rathore said.


(Vehicles plying on a Delhi road with their headlights on during the storm with dark clouds overhead)

The storm affected northeast Haryana and the NCR. But parts of east Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad were affected the most, he said.

Police in Ghaziabad said the storm claimed three lives and injured more than a 12 people besides causing heavy loss to property in different parts of the city.

Northeast dreams big on Sonowal, Kiren Rijiju

GUWAHATI: The induction of two MPs from the northeast - Kiren Rijiju from Arunachal Pradesh and Assam BJP president Sarbananda Sonowal in the Modi ministry - has given a ray of hope to people of the northeast who want the region to be put on the fast track to development.

While Sonowal was inducted as a minister of state (independent charge), Rijiju was sworn in as a minister of state.

People from the region are hoping that the new government will keep its promises, especially controlling price rise, curbing corruption and development of the northeast, made during Modi's election campaigns in the region.

Assam BJP general secretary Shantanu Bharali said it was a right decision on the part of the Modi government to induct the two MPs. "The duo, along with the NDA government, will work with full commitment to solve the problems plaguing the northeast for years. Our government will be sensitive to the people's aspirations and opinion regarding the development agenda," said Bharali.

Jhampa Tsering, a youth from West Kameng district, said with Rijiju's inclusion in the Union ministry, Arunachal Pradesh, along with other northeastern states, are looking forward to more development under the NDA regime.

The vice-chairman of Federation of Industry and Commerce of North Eastern Region, Amit Jain, wants the new government to come out with a five-year plan for the development of the northeast. "I think the Modi government and the ministers from the northeast will work together for the region's growth," said Jain.

Solving the problems of rhino poaching and influx from Bangladesh are also high on people's expectation list. "We definitely have high hopes from this government, especially when it comes to controlling price rise. Price rise is one of the important issues which Modi has raised very vocally in the run-up to the election. Now, it's high time the government translates its promises into reality," said Ajay Das, an advocate of Gauhati high court.

RTI activist and president of Social Justice Forum Golap Mazumdar said as the northeast is still lagging behind other parts of the country in terms of development, the Modi government should ensure development of the region and its people.

He added, "Though the two MPs from the northeast have found ministerial berths, we would have been happier if the ministry of DoNER was given to someone from the region. Overall, we want that ministers from the northeast and the Centre will work for the development of weaker and backward sections of our region, especially the minorities."

Mazedur Rahman of Char Chapori Sahitya Parishad, a literary body representing minority community in Assam, hoped that ministers from the northeast and NDA will work for promoting understanding between communities and ensure security of the minority community in the region.

This miraculous tree have been spewing water for two weeks! Locals call it the 'Raining Tree'

[caption id="attachment_11704" align="alignleft" width="191"] kiring tree[/caption]

A tree in Raksamgre, a small village lying about 120 kms from the town of Tura, West Garo Hills in Meghalaya, has been spewing water from its leaves since the last two weeks.

The tree named ‘kiring’ (in Garo dialect) located nearby the Raksamgre Higher Secondary School has been raining through the day and night and has now become a new tourist spot. Local folks and tourists have been flocking to see the bizarre tree and some visitors even harvesting the water from the leaves with anticipation that it would contain powers of healing to curse severe illness.

“This is miraculous to say the least”, said Tridip Sangma, a local of Tikrikilla who initially went to the place apprehensive that the whole thing could be a hoax. “I was amazed to see the tree actually raining through its leaves. My doubts have been cleared after the visit”, he exclaimed.

Treepon Sangma, a resident of Phulbari also went for a visit. “We initially thought the whole thing was a hoax and only went there on the insistence that the thing was real. It is true and we are amazed by it”.
Locals of the area said the phenomenon started about two weeks ago and has been continuing since. One local resident informed, “It suddenly started one day and we thought it was due to the rains. However, when it did not stop, the word spread and we had to put up a barricade to ensure over enthusiastic people did not destroy the tree. Our village has suddenly seen a huge influx of people, all coming to see the tree. Some of them have been carrying the water back from the tree hoping it will cure them of diseases”.

Whether the incident is unique is hard to decipher due to lack of information of related cases. However, the finding is sure to boost the numbers of people visiting the place just out of curiosity.

Source: Meghalaytimes, with inputs fromSevendiary

NSCN (IM) to cease dialogue with ACAUT

Joint Council of the NSCN (I-M) at its meeting at CHQ Hebron on May 23, resolved to cease engagement of dialogue with the ‘banned ACAUT with immediate effect”.
Stating this, MIP said the resolution was adopted by the house after serious deliberation on the “ treacherous activities of the banned ACAUT” and its implication on the Naga political issue and struggle and concluded that ACAUT “ has already politicised the taxation issue” to achieve “ its nefarious design” in undermining the Naga political stand”.
It accused ACAUT of being “guided by their own narrow personal whims, in total negation of the Naga people’s aspiration that has lasted beyond unquestionable length of time.”
Despite the ban, MIP said its government on humanitarian ground, made efforts in meeting ACAUT on several occasions but the latter “chose not to listen”. 
Accusing ACAUT of going to extreme with the deliberate intention of “misleading the Naga public” in the name of ‘One tax,One government’ that lacked transparency or courage to declare the right from the wrong”, MIP asked, whom were ACAUT trying to legitimise?
MIP said the house took serious note of ACAUT’s directive on May 2, not to pay “ Naga peoples committed tax to the national cause including the house tax” as it legitimised “the people’s movement”. It said this exposed ACAUT’s “sinister design” and lack of political maturity and clear antagonism against “ the sacred cause of the Nagas”. 
It said the after house concluded that ACAUT was “behaving as if they are above the national principle and above the Naga nation” it resolved to cease further dialogues. 
MIP said the house reaffirmed its endeavour to uphold the “sacred trust which the Naga nation entrusted upon us, to oppose any form of illegal taxation by groups or peoples, who claim to be representing the Naga people”. 

~NP

Land dispute in Manipur sparks clash, 8 injured

IMPHAL, May 25: Fuelled by a dispute over construction of a rest shed on the sacred site of a local sylvan deity, a group of people were attacked by ano-ther group using firearms in- flicting injuries to eight people including an MPS officer.

According to information culled from the spot, villagers of Uchiwa Wangma and Uchiwa Hayel were cleaning a sacred site (Lai-lam Thokpam) of Ikop Ningthou Maru Nongshaba at Ikop Pat at round 10.30 am today when a group of people armed with firearms from Khelakhong and Uchiwa Nastao attacked them.

This led to a tense stand-off. On learning about the un- folding situation, a police team led by Mayang Imphal OC came to the area. But even the police team was not spared. Compelled by the incessant attack, villagers of Uchiwa Wangma, Uchiwa Hayel and the police personnel ran helter-skelter in different directions.

Mayang Imphal P/S OC Sachidananda currently on probation was hit by two pellets on the back.

Salam Radhabinod (32) s/o Khaiba, Salam Khelendro (34) s/o Sanayaima, Salam Romen (33) s/o Khoibi, Ha-obijam Sanjit (23) s/o He- manta, Moirangthem Robin-son (22) s/o Jamini, Kon- jengbam Anand (22) s/o Ibo-sana and Thokchom Poireiton (47) were hurt in the attack. The first five victims belong to Uchiwa Wangma while the last two belong to Uchiwa Hayel.

Though five of the victims were taken to RIMS, all the injuries are said to be of minor nature.

Later, a large police team led by Imphal West Additio-nal SP (Ops) K Megha- chandra moved into the area and conducted a search operation. However, there is no report of any arrest till the time of filing this report.

A tense situation still prevails in the area which is un- der the jurisdiction of Mayang Imphal police station though it is a part of Thoubal district.

On the other hand, a public meeting was held at Uchi- wa Punsi Keithel in the afternoon where a joint action committee was constituted.

Talking by the sideline of the public meeting, social worker NC Luwang said that Lairapung, Sanapat, Mataopung and Wangjingpung located within Ikop Pat are sacred sites of Ikop Ningthou Maru Nongshaba and all these sites are being guarded by the people of Uchiwa since time immemorial.

Ikop Pat is the site where Khamba caught the wild ox of the Khamba-Thoibi legend.

NC Luwang accused the people of Uchiwa Nastao and Khelakhong for encroaching into the sacred area and building fishing/farming huts.

Paddy fields of Ikop Pat are under the occupation of the Ikop Ningthou Yakabung Shemgat-Shagat Lup since many decades back.

People of Uchiwa Wangma and Uchiwa Hayel were cleaning the sacred sites this morning when they were attacked by a large group of people are with shotguns (both double-barrel and single-barrel).

Demanding immediate arrest of all the assailants together with the firearms, the JAC urged the relevant Government authority to do justice with regard to the land dispute.

Meanwhile, a case has been registered at Mayang Imphal police station in connection with the incident. Wabagai A/C MLA Fajur Rahim later visited the area.

PM Modi announces list of Cabinet ministers with portfolios

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Monday sworn in as the 15th Prime Minister of India along with his key colleagues in the Cabinet.

Some of his key minister are senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley who has been given the charge of finance ministry and additional charge of the defence ministry in the Cabinet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Apart from Jaitley, Sushma Swaraj has been given charge of ministry of external affairs and Rajnath Singh was given charge of the home ministry.

The list of ministers includes: 
Sushma Swaraj - Ministry of External Affairs

Ananth Kumar - Parliamentary Affairs + additional charge

Nitin Gadkari - Surface Transport Ministry and Shipping Ministry

Sadanand Gowda - Railways Ministry

Venkaiah Naidu - Urban Development Ministry

Ravi Shankar Prasad - Telecom Ministry, Law and Justice Ministry

Maneka Gandhi - Women and Child Development Ministry

Najma Heptullah - Ministry of Minorities

Smriti Irani - HRD Ministry

Radha Mohan Singh - Agriculture Ministry

Nirmala Sitharaman - MoS Commerce

Piyush Goel - MoS Power (Independent)

Prakash Javadekar - MoS Information & Broadcasting

Ram Vilas Paswan- Food and Civil Supplies Ministry

Rajnath Singh - Minister for Home Affairs

Arun Jaitley - Finance Ministry and additional charge of the Defence Ministry

Let us script a glorious future for India - PM Modi

NEW DELHI: Around the time Narendra Modi was being sworn in at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the website of the Prime Minister's Office put up Modi's first official message as Prime Minister of the country.

Greeting the people of the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "On 16th May 2014 the people of India gave their verdict. They delivered a mandate for development, good governance and stability. As we devote ourselves to take India's development journey to newer heights, we seek your support, blessings and active participation."

"Together we will script a glorious future for India. Let us together dream of a strong, developed and inclusive India that actively engages with the global community to strengthen the cause of world peace and development," Narendra Modi said.

Modi has all through his campaign been very proactively interacting via the social media, even tweeting just a few hours before his swearing-in ceremony.

In his very first message on the official website of the Prime Minister of India, Modi said, "I envision this website as a very important medium of direct communication between us. I am a firm believer in the power of technology and social media to communicate with people across the world. I hope this platform creates opportunities to listen, learn and share one's views."

Modi also added the website would be constantly updated with "latest information about my speeches, schedules, foreign visits and lot more. I will also keep informing you about innovative initiatives undertaken by the Government of India."

Narendra Modi, India's 15th Prime Minister, took oath on Monday at a ceremony held in the open at Rashtrapati Bhavan and attended by the Who's Who of the nation, including political leaders, business honchos, celebrities and leaders of religious faiths, as well as leaders of neighbouring countries.

Sumi Hoho reaffirms previous resolutions

Zunheboto, May 25 (MExN): The Sumi Hoho in its executive meeting held on May 23 at Sumi Hoho Ki, Zunheboto reaffirmed previous resolutions. In a press statement, Sumi Hoho president, Toniho Yepthomi and general secretary Vihuto Asumi said the meeting reaffirmed the January 7, 2014 Sumi general session resolutions which included declaring December 28 as “Sumi Martyrs’ Day” to be observed yearly and the burial place to be called “Sumi Martyrs’ Park”.

Other resolutions included: “The relationship between Sumi and the NSCN-IM is hereby declared abrogated and no taxation in any form shall be paid to the NSCN-IM. If and when any act of violence or desecration is inflicted upon Sumi individual or community in the coming days, the entire Sumi populace will retaliate. The NSCN-IM will not be allowed to set up “Designated Camp” within the entire inhabited areas of Sumi land.”

The meeting also affirmed the January 15, 2008 Sumi Public Rally Resolution which was further strengthened at the Sumi general session on August 9, 2011 declaring the entire Sumi inhabited area as the “Peace Zone”. The Hoho further lauded the ACAUT Nagaland for the movement against corruption and unabated taxation which, it said, is a pro-people fight.

PHARRELL WILLIAM FANS IN DARJEELING RELEASES TRIBUTE VIDEO ‘HAPPY’

The Grammy-winning star Pharrell William fans in Darjeeling has released a parody video of his hit songHappy on YouTube on May 24. The song, which imitates thousands of similar clips by other Pharrell Williams fans across the globe, was produced by Angel’s Production Studio, based in this dazzling hill station of northernmost West Bengal in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Earlier last week, Six young men and women in Iran were arrested by the country’s police, for appearing in a tribute video of the same song Happy. Williams’ song has inspired hundreds of tributes since it was released last year on the soundtrack to hit animation Despicable Me 2, nominated for the best original song at the Oscar earlier this year.

Watch the parody video of “Happy Darjeeling” 

ALO WANTH RELEASES TWO BRAND NEW SINGLES!

Alo Wanth has just released two brand new singles titled, ‘ WITHOUT WINGS’ and ‘BEAUTIFUL YOU’. The song has been released on youtube, soundcloud and on indihut.com

Since the hit of his music video ‘Beauty Queen’, Alo Wanth’s music has taken a fresh new direction. The new singles ‘Without Wings’ and ‘Beautiful You’ reveals the amount of hard work the artist has put into creating two masterpieces defining Alo Wanth’s maturity and excellent composition skills as a musician.

Alo Wanth is backed up the band comprising of Alem Jamir on the lead guitars, Noksang Jamir’s drumming with vocals backed up by Tulu Lkr. Alo Wanth also experimented with an instrument ‘Bamhum’ that was created by Naga musicians Abiogenesis in the new single ‘Beautiful You’.

Alo Wanth wishes to acknowledge those who support and encourage our original Naga musicians with an early bird offer where the two singles can be downloaded from www.indihut.com

Trained in contemporary music from Dallas, TX, USA and School of Justice Graduate from University of the Nations, Hawaii, Kona, USA, Alo Wanth already has two albums ‘Beautiful’ and ‘Life’ to his credit.

Visit http://indihut.com/alowanth/ to download the songs.

Courtesy: Indihut

Last of the headhunters: Amazing images document the tattoo-adorned faces of historic warriors whose fierce tribal existence will soon disappear forever

The Konyaks are known for their fierce headhunting history, which continued until 1960. Found in large numbers in Nagaland, India, the former warriors are recognised by their facial tattoos and the animal skin, hair and horns which are ceremoniously draped over their bodies. Here, Adrian McGloin describes how he and photographer Jean-Christian Cottu travelled to the remote Mon district to get to know the people behind the tribal exterior.

'In ten or perhaps 15 years, most if not all of these former Konyak headhunters and their wives will be dead. Their faded tattoo-adorned faces will be buried beneath Christian headstones in hilltop villages in the remote Mon district of Nagaland in north east India.

With their demise, the living memories of their unique cultural existence will disappear for eternity.

 

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 These stunning photos, featured in the series Nagaland, were taken by photographer Jean-Christian Cottu, who travelled to the remote Mon district of Nagaland, north east India, to document the Konyak people. Many members of the tribe do not know their exact ages and do not have a birth certificate. Pictured here are Ginwang, 95, left, and Phongwang, 84, right

 These elderly men and women have lived through a time when tribal warfare still resolved certain territorial conflicts. Their backs, torsos and facial tattoos bear witness to mortal combat and the customary headhunting.

They were born into and inherited a strong tribal identity, which extended to the physical boundaries of their lands. They will die having intermittent access to limited aspects of modernity and having partially embraced a Baptist-based Christianity.

Jean-Christian Cottu’s photographs provide a visual record of these people. These are not anonymous, stolen images, as is too often the case. Importance is rightly given to the names, ages, and villages of origin of these people.

These images are by no means the only record of these former warriors and their families, but by taking a mobile photo studio, Jean-Christian wanted to go beyond the superficial cliché and instead capture the human dignity of these disappearing people.

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 The elderly men and women were born into and inherited a strong tribal identity and also embrace a strong Baptist-based Christianity, something which started to change the way the tribe operated. Pictured here are Phamman, 78, left and Pulei, 95, right

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 The former warriors are differentiated from other Nagas by the tattoos which are drawn all over their faces. Other symbols of the Konyak warriors are big pierced ears made ​​of animal horns and war hats made of hunted wild pigs horns, hornbill feathers and wild bear or goat hair. Pictured here are Wangjin, 92, left and Manbang, 78, right

 Each photograph is the result of a material exchange, in the form of a printed copy of their photograph or a monetary one, in the form of a few hundred rupees, and on occasions both.

But the encounters were not merely restricted to nominal transactions. Our mutual curiosity was rewarded with undeniable human exchanges between us and some frank interviews.

These elderly people have had a long, unscripted past. They are living through a challenging present and face a diminishing curtailed future.

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 The Konyak warrior tribe is one of the many Naga tribes known for their fierce headhunting history and hunting skills and trophies won through hunting are worn as part of their costume, as shown above. Pictured here are Jaiyang, 90, left and Bawang, also said to be 90, right

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The elderly men and women pictured by the photographer lived through a time when tribal warfare still resolved territorial conflict. They often wear a necklace with bronze faces, reflecting the number of heads they have cut. Pictured here are Gokpol, 88, left and Konwang, 76, right

These images and text attempt in a limited way to explain who the Konyak people we met are and to reveal a fraction of their respective stories.

When Jean-Christian asked me to accompany him on this project, I agreed to give a hand with the lighting and translate, on condition that I would also interview the people that he intended to photograph. I wanted to complement his images with some words.

So that those who would appreciate the beauty and poignancy of these photos might also have their curiosity rewarded with additional information about these unique people.

By observing their interactions with Jean-Christian’s mobile photo studio and by interviewing the Konyak people I was hoping to discover something about their identity, their way of life and how the recent generations have coped with change.

For the most part I relied on our guide Anyang to interpret my questions and their responses.'

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The Konyak tribes have traditionally had a strong warrior tradition and are mostly famous because they were still headhunting until the end of 1960. But there are now young members being born into the community, left, who will lead the tribe in a new direction. Pictured here are Jaylen, nine and Wangnea, one, left, and Princess Lemam, 16

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2638214/Last-headhunters-Amazing-images-document-tattoo-adorned-faces-historic-warriors-fierce-cultural-existence-soon-disappear-forever.html#ixzz32i7bCoBb
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T.R Zeliang, 11 ministers sworn in

T.R Zeliang was sworn in as the 20th chief minister of Nagaland on Saturday along with 11 ministers by the Governor at Raj Bhavan Kohima.

Governor of Nagaland Dr. Ashwani Kumar administered the oath of office and secrecy to 62-year old T.R.Zeliang who also became the tenth politician in the state and the first who is not from a major tribe, to assume the office of chief minister. 
Later, the Governor also administered oath of office and secrecy to T.R. Zeliang’s reshuffled council of ministers that included- Noke Wangnao, G. Kaito Aye, Kuzholuzo Nienu, Kiyaneilie Peseyie, Yanthungo Patton, P. Longon, Kipili, C. Kipili Sangtam, Nuklotoshi, Dr. Nicky Kire, C.L John and Dr. Benjongliba Aier. 

As reported by Nagaland Post, five ministers in the outgoing Rio ministry were dropped while six parliamentary secretaries including an advisor, were elevated as cabinet ministers.

The function was attended by DAN-III pre-poll partners BJP, JD-U, post-poll alliance partners (Independent MLAs, NCP) besides NPF president Dr. Shürhozelie Liezetsu, senior bureaucrats, officers of police and paramilitary forces and representatives of NGOs. Governor of Nagaland, on the advice of the chief minister allocated the portfolios and the business of the Government amongst the ministers under the provisions of Rule 5(1) of the REB, government of Nagaland.


NEW CABINET MINISTERS
T.R. Zeliang, Chief Minister : Finance, Personnel & Administrative Reforms and any other portfolio not allotted to any Minister

Ministers
Noke Wangnao: Public Health Engineering
G. Kaito Aye: Industries & Commerce
Kuzholuzo Neinu: Roads & Bridges, Parliamentary Affairs
Kiyanilie Peseyie: Social Security & Welfare
Yanthungo Patton: Home
P. Longon: Health & Family Welfare
Kipili Sangtam: Power
Nuklutoshi: National Highways, Mechanical Engineering 
Dr. Neikiesalie Nicky Kire: Forest, Environment & Wildlife
C.L. John: Rural Development
Dr. Benjongliba Aier: Agriculture


Narendra Modi congratulates T.R 
DIMAPUR, MAY 24 (NPN): Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated T.R Zeliang on tweeter after he assumed charge as the new chief minster of Nagaland state.
“Congratulations to T.R Zeliang on taking oath as Nagaland CM. My best wishes and support in Nagaland’s development journey,”— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 24, 2014.


CLP leader congratulates
DIMAPUR, MAY 24 (NPN): Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Tokheho Yepthomi on behalf of the CLP congratulated T.R Zeliang on being appointed as the new chief minister of Nagaland.
In a press release Tokheho said: “We are hopeful that he (TR Zeliang) will discharge the enormous responsibility entrusted upon him with diligence and sincerity.”
Stating that Nagaland had “a lot of issues” that needed to be addressed, Tokheho said the CLP hopes that T.R Zeliang would address the issues in the right direction.
CLP wished the new chief minister the very best in all the endeavors he is about to undertake.

FGN dedicates 50-yr Indo-Naga cease-fire monolith

Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) Saturday dedicated the 50-year Indo-Naga Cease-fire foundation monolith at Sakraba under Phek district.
FGN Tatar Hoho speaker Lhouvitsu while remembering the past said today people have gathered to witness the dedication of the monolith in commemoration of the “dawn of peace” in “our war torn land” wherein peace was made possible due to successive meetings at Sakraba. 
He recalled that a mammoth crowd gathered on May 23, 1964, which was a “rare” after decades of turbulence. He said that the meeting was followed by the meeting of FGN representatives and the Peace Mission Members on May 24, 1964. 
Lhouvitsu said that in this meeting, the FGN representatives agreed to the peace mission proposal for cease-fire in Nagaland, and the same was signed on May, 25, 1964. He said the Nagaland Baptist Church Council was deeply concerned about restoration of peace and normalcy in Nagaland and that the church leaders were determined to take tremendous pain and risks to travel throughout the length and breadth of Nagaland. 
Which he said eventually led to the successful organization of the third Nagaland Baptist Convention at Wokha from January 31 to February 2, 1964 during which urgent need for peace and normalcy and peaceful talks between the leaders of Nagaland and India was discussed. 
Consequently, the church leaders obtained consent of government of India to open avenues and also in availing the services of Jayaprakash Narayan, Shankar Dev, Bimala Prasad Chaliha and Reverend Michael Scott with the sole objective of exploring ways and means for the speedy restoration of peace and normalcy in Nagaland, he said. Lhouvitsu then said that through such initiatives international cease-fire agreement between Nagaland and India became effective on September 6, 1964.
Asserting that Nagaland is peace loving country, he said “our” leaders were committed to peace in the midst of Indian aggression adding that “we” paid dearly but for peace and harmony.
He also reaffirmed that NNC/FGN is committed for peace and that it would uphold its policy and endeavour with the hope that government of India realized its “folly sooner than later and withdrawn its armed forces from our land.” The monolith was unveiled and dedicated by Reverend Narola (NBCC) while Pastor Phola Baptist Church Vezokho read the Bible passage. The dedication concluded with a mass prayer.

NSF calls for justice in Delhi assault case

Dimapur, May 24 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has condemned the alleged assault and molestation of a Naga woman at Vishwavidyalaya metro station, Delhi on May 22, and also the assault on leaders of the Naga Students’ Union Delhi (NSUD) by a group of lawyers at Tiz Hazari Court on May 23 during the hearing of the aforementioned case. “It is quite disheartening and enraging to learn that none of the officials in the court intervened though the inhuman act is being perpetrated right in front of them,” stated NSF president Tongpang Ozukum and general secretary Esther Rhakho in a press statement. The NSF has condemned and questioned the “legality and integrity” of the Tiz Hazari Court. “Are they (Court) not supposed to protect and safeguard the people, no matter to which community, caste, religion of region they belong? Are they not supposed to deliver justice to the people of all section?”

The NSF has wondered why the Delhi police are always late when such incidents happen to the people of the North East. The NSF further asked whether the Government of India or the Government of Delhi has a “separate law” for the people of the North East. “The People of North East Region has suffered enough, therefore it is high time that the policy makers should enact stringent law against such perpetrators and strictly implement in letter and spirit,” asserted the NSF. The Federation has appealed to law enforcing agencies to punish the perpetrators and the lawyers involved in the assault incident as per the law. It also appealed to all the people of the North East, particularly the Naga people residing in Delhi, to participate in the protest on May 27 at Bar Council of India, Delhi to show solidarity and support for the cause “we have been fighting for.”

Formal charge hearing against Sharmila ends; verdict on June 4

IMPHAL, May 24: The Chief Judicial Magistrate, Imphal East will announce its verdict on June 4 after the formal charge hearing against Irom Sharmila ends on Saturday.

Sharmila has been under judicial custody on charges of attempting suicide under section 309 of Indian Panel Court for not partaking food. She remains steadfast on her fast unto death until her demand for repeal of AFSPA from the state is met.

The Superintendent of Police (SP), Prisons, Goulangmang, who was summoned on May 21 for not submitting Sharmila’s health status report, appeared before the court today.

After the hearing, Sharmila said she wishes to meet the new Prime Minister to inform him about the hardships faced by people due to the imposition of AFSPA, adding that she hasn’t asked for an appointment so far.

Stating that there was no problem with her health, she replied that she didn’t have any faith in politicians when asked about her opinion on the JD (U)’s decision to join her struggle.

“If they are honest and join the fight until the demand is conceded, it will be good for me and the people too,” she stated.

She said if her defense lawyers are not able to provide her justice, the social activists and others would.

Briefing the media, Sharmila’s counsel Khaidem Mani said that the legal charge hearing against Sharmila was over and on June 4 the court would announce its verdict.

Stating that the S0 (Prisons) submitted reports to the court on her mental and physical status which were found to be normal. He said something is amiss in the charges against her because hers is not an attempt to commit suicide but a fast unto death demanding the wellbeing of every citizen.

~IFP

UKLF instigating protest against designated camp: KNLF

IMPHAL, May 24: The Kuki National Liberation Front (KNLF) has alleged that the protest carried out by some sections against setting up of designated camp of the outfit is under the instigation of the United Kuki Liberation Front (UKLF).

Speaking to media persons somewhere in Chandel district, KNLF secretary Tonglenlal Haokip alias Lalmoi, revealed that the KNLF is one of the 15 armed wings under the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) that signed the Tripartite Suspension of Operation (SoO) Agreement on August 30, 2013 at the Banquet hall of 1st MR.

With the outfit entering in the SoO agreement on March 25, 2014, it petitioned the MHA NE division to establish a designated camp, he said.

Subsequently, the MHA responded positively, he said adding that the additional secretary (Home) on May 3, 2014, as instructed by the Ministry released an order giving green signal to its demand of setting up of designated camp at Simol Village under Khengjoy Sub-division, Chandel district, he continued.

At the same time, the chief of Simol village, Tilgoulen Haokip, had not objected to the move, he added.

Given the situation, the construction work began in full swing and altogether 40 cadres of KNLF who were under the security coverage of 9AR Moreh post were shifted at the camp on May 11, 2014 without any problems. Moreover, most of the cadres are from Khgenjoy sub-dvision, he continued.

Haokip, said that his group was taken by surprised when Kana Area Chief Association, Gunpi Area Chief Associatio and Chandel Naga Peoples’ Organisation on the open protest staged by them.

Owing to the prevailing situation the KNLF conducted an investigation and found out that the Chief association were summoned by the UKLF to attend a meeting on May 22, 2014.

UKLF warned the chiefs that they would imposed a fine of Rupees 10,000 before instructed them to opposed to the establishment of the camp, alleged Haokip.

According to Hoakip, Kana area and Gunpi are does not falls under Chakpikarong Sub-division and they are not related with the Khengjoy Sub-division.

The UKLF’s claimed of Chandel district being their ‘dominated area’ is beyond the ground rules of SoO, he asserted adding that none of the UKLF belong to Khengjoy Some Division.

The KNLF secretary clarified that the KNLF signed the SoO for peace process and not completely surrendered to the Government.

Before signing the SoO agreement the security was the only enemy of the KNLF however since it had entered into agreement it has no enemy including the UKLF as commonly perceived, he said.

Refuting the allegation levelled against the outfit that it has been extortion to saw mill owners and truckers is baseless, the KNLF secretary pointed out that its cadres in Simol Designated camp are unarm.

~IFP

Naga Society: Culture, Education, and Emerging Trends launched

In the pic:  (L-R) Dr. Lanusangla, Prof BS Chauhan, and Dr. Benjongkumba during the launch of “Naga Society: Culture, Education and Emerging Trends” on May 23 at Hotel Saramati.  (Morung Photo) 

Morung Express News
Dimapur | May 23

A book on the culture, education, and emerging trends of Naga society was today launched at Hotel Saramati here. The book entitled 'Naga Society: Culture, Education and Emerging Trends' covers topic from human rights to customary laws, women empowerment, development, land, and education etc. It is a compilation of 13 papers presented at a seminar held in 2012 at Immanuel College, Dimapur which was jointly organized by Zunheboto Government College and the former.

Dr. Benjongkumba, Asst. Professor of Department of Education, Zunheboto Government College and editor of the book stated that the objective of the book was to reflect the identity of the Nagas, hence, it portrays various aspects concerning Naga society.  The book, he said, is apt not only for the academicians, but for all, including non-Nagas who want to do research on Naga society. The book will become a reference book, he asserted. Further, the editor of the book expressed that “we” have many seminars but hardly turn them into a book. “We will strive for better, more publications,” he added.

Prof BS Chauhan, former pro-vice chancellor, SASRD, Nagaland University, who officially launched the book called the title of the book fascinating and exciting. He enunciated that emerging trends as mentioned in the title particularly is vital. Citing examples of change in Naga culture, customs, and practices, he stated, “Naga society is casteless, there is no class, but things are changing.” He further lamented that education in Nagaland has done little in the field of science and technology. Explaining that there are enough resources in Nagaland, he encouraged, “we must channelize our energy for the growth of the Naga society.”

According to Prof Chauhan, many trends are emerging in Naga society, but two trends are crucial – energy intensive lifestyle and global warming. In India, Prof Chauhan said, the lifestyle of North East region people is energy intensive. Giving example that 7 kgs of wheat is required to produce 1 kg of beef, he said such intensive lifestyle may not be sustainable. “Resources have to be used proportionately…we have resources, we are not able to identify,” he added. On the issue of global warming, he asserted it is here and is a reality. Underlining that if it continues, forest areas will become grasslands, he stressed, “We should do whatever for our future generations.”

Dr. Lanusangla, publisher & chief editor, Heritage Publishing House, chaired the launching programme and Imtijungla Longchar, who has already authored 17 books, said prayer. Imtijungla expressed that Nagaland has produced many scholars, yet there are very few writers. He encouraged the younger scholars to contribute to writing. She emphasized that Nagas should have their own books and younger Naga generation should read about their culture, history and traditions written by Nagas.
The book published by Heritage Publishing House has 152 pages and is priced at Rs. 280/-.
Book Review by Dr. Asangba Tzudir on Page 6.

~MExN

Sonia rejects Gogoi's resignation offer

NEW DELHI: Congress chief Sonia Gandhi today "outrightly" rejected the resignation offered by Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi following the party's debacle in the state in Lok Sabha polls.

"The Congress President outrightly rejected the Chief Minister's offer of resignation," State Agriculture Minister Nilomani Sen Deka told PTI after a meeting with Gogoi.

Gogoi, who met Sonia and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, did not speak to journalists and was closeted with more than a dozen of his supporters, mostly state ministers, MLAs and two former Union Ministers, at his residence here.

Senior MLA Anjan Dutta said the Congress President has authorised Gogoi to revamp the party organisation in the state and as the first step he will reshuffle his ministry after June 1 when Gogoi will complete three years in office in his third term.

Dutta said that during Gogoi's meeting with Rahul, the Congress vice-president too put complete faith in Gogoi's leadership in Assam. Former Union Minister B K Handique, who lost in the Lok Sabha polls in Jorhat, said Gogoi would continue as Chief Minister and lead the party in the state.

After Congress got its lowest ever tally in Assam -- 3 out of 14 Lok Sabha seats -- in the recent Lok Sabha elections, 78-year-old Gogoi had said on Saturday last that he would resign within a week. Gogoi has been Chief Minister of Assam since 2001.

During the day, Gogoi met Congress treasurer Motilal Vohra and Congress general secretary in-charge of Assam C P Joshi. The Chief Minister has already admitted to "arrogance and complacency" but said he would not leave politics and would continue to work for the party's recovery. Congress in Assam has been plagued by factionalism and dissidence with state Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma leading the anti-Gogoi campaign.

~MExN

Three killed in Manipur shooting

Imphal: Two militants and one Assam Rifles personnel were killed in a shoot-out between security personnel and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) in Tamenglong district of Manipur. Police said the exchanges of firing between the ZUF and the Assam Rifles occurred at Taodum village in Nungba sub division of Tamenglong district last night and this morning, resulting in the killing of two ZUF cadres and one Assam Rifles personnel.

According to the police, at around 6:30 pm, May 21, some cadres of ZUF in an apparent attempt to abduct one villager, identified as Chingkhudin, forced the man to drive his own vehicle to an undisclosed destination along with the ZUF cadres.

Feeling apprehensive, Chingkhudin took with him a relative of his wife, a 14 years old boy. On the way, the ZUF cadres put three more people in the vehicle. When they reached Taodum village vicinity, which lies between Nungba town and Kambiron, they saw personnel of the 13 Assam Rifles from F-Coy repairing one of their vehicles at around 8:30 pm.

Police said the security force personnel asked the incoming vehicle to stop but the ZUF cadres asked Chingkhudin to proceed. The security force personnel managed to stop them at which point Chingkhudin disclosed to the Assam Rifles personnel that he was being kidnapped by the ZUF cadres, the police added. The ZUF cadres jumped out from the vehicle and a gun-battle followed, which led to the death of one ZUF cadre, identified as one Makudin (42).

One Assam Rifles personnel identified as Takhellambam Gokil (25) and one Atuwa Oran were injured. While they were being transported to Leimakhing Military Hospital, Takhellam Gokil succumbed to his injuries.

Police said that a massive operation was conducted this morning in the Taodum village area which has been cordoned off since last night. At around 5:30 am on May 22, another gun battle broke out killing one more ZUF cadre. The deceased has been identified as one Mathuilan Haomei (30).

The Assam Rifles recovered two AK Rifles and two hand grenades from the site of the incident, the police stated. Meanwhile, the dead bodies of the two ZUF cadres and the jawan are deposited at the RIMS mortuary.

MExN

Modi to take oath as Prime Minister on May 26, top bureaucrats asked to stay in country

NEW DELHI: Narendra Modi, who steered BJP and the NDA to a landslide victory in the Lok Sabha election, was appointed Prime Minister on Tuesday, ushering in a new era of a non-Congress government with an absolute majority on its own in 30 years. 

"I came to call on the President. The President has given me a formal letter (of appointment as the PM) and has invited me for oath-taking ceremony on May 26 at 6pm as we had earlier decided," Modi told reporters after meeting with President Pranab Mukherjee. 

Modi's call on the President came after he was unanimously elected leader of the BJP parliamentary party and later at a combined meeting of the BJP and its allies constituting the NDA as leader of the coalition. 

Later, a Rashtrapati Bhawan communique said: "... As Modi has been elected leader of the BJP parliamentary party and BJP has majority support in the House of the People, the President appointed him the Prime Minister of India and requested him to advise the names of members of the council of ministers." 

"The President will administer the oath of office and secrecy on May 26 at 6pm at Rashtrapati Bhawan," the President's spokesman Venu Rajamony said. 

Top bureaucrats asked not to travel abroad 

Cabinet secretary Ajit Kumar Seth has written to secretaries of all ministries and departments asking them not to travel abroad this week unless it is to attend most important matters, officials sources said here. 

Seth has called a meeting of all the secretaries on Wednesday to discuss the presentations prepared by the respective departments to appraise the new Prime Minister, sources said. 

Seth has directed officials requiring to travel outside the country for pressing engagements, to seek prior written approval before travelling, they added. 

In a separate communication, the Cabinet secretary has also asked all departments to keep a presentation ready for appraising the new Prime Minister of the achievements as well as failures of the outgoing government. 

The presentation is also to list pending issues and steps that need to be taken soon. 

Sources said Seth directed that presentations must include things like five important achievements, failures and steps the department would like to take in order to boost the country's economic growth. 

He has asked all central secretaries to write what shouldn't have been done by the previous government and also provide "four or five practical goals/achievements" which can be pursued "for the next five years", if "freedom is given" to the bureaucrats. 

Officials have also been asked to furnish top achievements of their respective Ministry in the last 10 years and the gap between the actual result and the intended plan.

~TOI

Microsoft launches Surface 3, tablet that can ‘replace laptop’

NEW DELHI: Microsoft on Tuesday launched Surface Pro 3 at an event in New York. The company said that the device, which succeeds Surface Pro 2, combines the best of a tablet and laptop in a single gadget.

"So many people carry both a laptop and a tablet but really want just one device that serves all purposes," said Panos Panay, corporate vice president, Microsoft Surface. "Surface Pro 3 is the tablet that can replace your laptop — packing all the performance of a fully powered laptop into a thin, light and beautifully designed device."

Powered by an Intel Core i processor, Surface Pro 3 will be available in several configurations. The basic model, which has a Core i3 processor and 64GB internal storage, will cost $799. Despite packing in a Core i processor, the tablet runs cool. Microsoft claims it is the slimmest (9.1mm) device with a Core i processor.

"The product we're announcing today has been three years in the making. To get this thin, light, and powerful was a huge challenge - partly because the powerful processors that power Surface Pro 3 need to be cooled... we invented a new fan technology that is 30% more efficient than previous solutions. The new, thinner fan cools a series of fins placed around it instead of forcing the exhaust air out through a channel. Not having to create space for this channel allows Surface Pro 3 to be thinner without sacrificing performance," said Panay.

Surface Pro 3 will be available in the US and Canada from June 20. The availability will be extended to 26 additional countries by end of August but India is not one of them.

Microsoft has not yet launched a Surface tablet in India. It is likely that Surface Pro 3 may not come to Indian market any time soon. Amrish Goyal, the head of Windows division at Microsoft India, had earlier told TOI that the company believed the Surface tablets were too expensive for Indian market. He revealed that instead of Surface tablets, in India Microsoft was focusing on less expensive tablets created by Microsoft's hardware partners like Lenovo and Dell.

Surface Pro 3 has a 12-inch screen with a resolution of 2160 x 1440 pixels. It features an adjustable kickstand, has a casing made of magnesium and weighs around 800 grams. It has two cameras - 5MP each - in the front and rear. The device uses Windows 8.1 Pro.

The tablet will also be available with a Core i3 or a Core i7 processor. The device has 4GB RAM in standard configuration but consumers will have the option to go for 8GB RAM. Similarly, if consumers want, they would be able to opt for the model with 512GB internal storage. The fully upgraded model of Surface Pro 3 will cost around $1,949.

Like earlier Surface tablets, the Surface Pro 3 will also be compatible with a few accessories. "New Surface accessories like the improved Surface Pro Type Cover will take Surface Pro 3 from tablet to laptop in a snap. The new premium Surface Pen with pressure sensitivity enables a more natural writing experience, while a full-size USB 3.0 port, microSD card reader and Mini DisplayPort allow for quick file transfers and easy connections to a range of peripherals," said Microsoft. The accessories will cost extra.

Facebook Introduces New Way to Flirt With Relationship 'Ask' Button

If you've been eyeing someone on Facebook whose profile doesn't list a relationship status, the company is making it easier (or possibly more awkward) to find out if he or she's single.

Facebook has rolled out a new "ask" feature for those profile pages that don't list relationship statuses. The owner of the page doesn't see the button — only the person who is checking out the page.

 

IMAGE: BRIAN HERNANDEZ, MASHABLE

By clicking "ask," you must send the user a message related to the status (such as "want to grab a drink sometime?"), as well as a request to list a status as single, engaged, married or in a civil union. Note: users must be friends with the person in order for the "ask" button to appear.

 

The owner of the Facebook page then receives a request to list select a status that only the sender can see. This means your status can remain private but visible to only those who "ask" for that information, if you so wish to divulge it.

 It's also possible to update your entire network with this information too, but Facebook is probably guessing — correctly — that you'd simply list your status already if you wanted everyone to know.

The feature introduces a new way to use Facebook as a way to find dates. With the continuing success of online dating sites, and Facebook's massive user base, the only surprise here is that the feature wasn't introduced sooner.

A user's relationship status can also be of use to marketers that target products or services to certain demographics. By answering an "ask" request, a Facebook member is telling the site their status (even if it's not visible to the public) and in turn, giving the company that personal data.

It's also possible to "ask" for other unlisted information too, such as phone numbers, email addresses, current city, hometown and place of employment. That part of the "ask" feature started popping up on mobile and desktop versions of the site a few months ago, but the relationship status component is new.

http://mashable.com/2014/05/19/facebook-ask-button/#:eyJzIjoiZiIsImkiOiJfb2lwd2FtanNmdHp4NmNzOSJ9

Ukraine approaching point of no return, says UN chief

Ukraine is edging towards "the point of no return", a senior UN official says, amid rising tensions between security forces and pro-Russia separatists.

UN Assistant Secretary General for Human Rights Ivan Simonovic told the BBC that the crisis had worrying echoes of the 1990s war in his native Croatia.

Reports from eastern Ukraine say clashes between government forces and separatist militants have continued.

The separatists have not taken part in EU-brokered talks to defuse the crisis.

Overnight, attacks in the east wounded four Ukrainian servicemen, the ministry of defence in Kiev was quoted as saying by Ukrainian media.

Separatist militants are said to have attacked a military camp near the city of Izyum, in Kharkiv region, and four checkpoints near Sloviansk in Donetsk region.

On Saturday, the separatists appointed a prime minister for what they call the People's Republic of Donetsk.

The man, Alexandr Borodai, said the self-proclaimed entity would apply to join Russia.

The separatists have taken control of government buildings across cities in south-eastern and southern Ukraine.

Violence between the two sides has left dozens of people dead in recent weeks.

A new Ukrainian president is due to be elected on 25 May.

Mr Simonovic told the BBC: "What I'm really afraid is that country is approaching to a point of no return if there is no adequate and urgent action taken."

The UN says it has documented countless incidents of abduction, torture and murder in south and eastern Ukraine.

Deadlock

Although abuses have been committed on both sides, Mr Simonovic said, the majority were by the separatists.

He added that he hoped the planned presidential election could take place, but that it would be "extremely difficult".

"I firmly believe that there is a window of opportunity that should be used," he said, but added that it was closing.

The separatists have held referendums in the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, and claimed to have won overwhelming popular backing. Both the Ukrainian government in Kiev and Western countries regard the votes as illegitimate.

The BBC's Mark Lowen in Donetsk says both sides in the conflict are digging in.

The Ukrainian government refuses to talk to armed separatists and the self-proclaimed authorities say they will not hold a dialogue until Kiev ends its "occupation" of the east.

The revolt in the east gained momentum after Russia annexed Ukraine's mainly ethnic Russian region of Crimea in March.

Moscow acted after the overthrow of Ukraine's elected pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych during unrest in the capital Kiev in February.

Neiphiu Rio does a Modi, eyes cabinet berth

KOHIMA: In the biggest gamble of his political career, Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio of Naga People's Front (NPF) had contested the Lok Sabha polls this time. That risk paid off handsomely as Rio emerged victorious.

He won by over four lakh votes, defeating his nearest rival K V Pusa of Congress in a triangular contest.

Only the second chief minister after Narendra Modi to contest the LS polls, Rio had taken the plunge eyeing a ministerial berth at the Centre. NPF had already joined the NDA in March.

With the BJP-led NDA all set to form the next government, Rio looks to play an important innings in Delhi. There is a high chance that he could become the second politician from Nagaland to represent his state in the Union government, after S C Jamir. Jamir, currently Odisha governor, was a minister for state under Nehru in the 1960s.

In Christian-dominated Nagaland, many were left peeved with Rio's move to ally his party with NDA. However, his close aides dismissed such allegations. "BJP is a national party with secular credentials. It is a recognized political party," said close aide of Rio.

Playing a crucial role in northeast politics for over two decades, Rio heads the North East Regional Parties' Front (NERPF) and is its convenor. The NERPF, a conglomeration of 10 regional parties, has already supported NDA at the Centre. The NERPF constituents have won only two seats in this election. Apart from Rio, the other winner is former LS speaker P A Sangma of National People's Party, who won from Tura. Both Rio and Sangma are hopeful of a prominent place in Modi's ministry.

~TOI