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        <description><![CDATA[ The Morung Express is an independent English language newspaper based in Nagaland, India. ]]></description>
        <language>en</language>
        <pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2026 03:36:17 +0530</pubDate>
        <docs>https://www.morungexpress.com</docs>
        
          
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland recording poor response to subsidised solar energy scheme]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-recording-poor-response-to-subsidised-solar-energy-scheme</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Only 800 installed out of 10k target under rooftop solar pushMorung Express News&amp;nbsp;Dimapur | October 14Nagaland has recorded only about 800 rooftop solar installations against its target of 10,000 households under the Prime Minister Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, while neighbouring Assam has already met its target of one lakh units. The poor public response is despite the scheme coming with a subsidy.&amp;nbsp;“Out of the 10,000 consumers which we have earmarked, we have hardly reached around 800 consumers only till now,” said Albert Ovung, Executive Engineer, Chümoukedima Electrical Division, at the launch of the two-day Seva Setu Abhiyan at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Chümoukedima on October 14.&amp;nbsp;The Nagaland state government reportedly provides the highest subsidy, among the states, under the scheme, in the country. Yet public response to the subsidised solar energy initiative remains poor for reasons unknown.&amp;nbsp;Meanwhile, Nagaland struggles to meet its energy requirement, primarily sourced from external conventional sources like hydro and thermal plants. According to Ovung, the state’s power demand stands at 200 MW at present, and is projected to reach 300 MW by 2030.&amp;nbsp;At the current energy cost, he projected that Nagaland would need around Rs 450 crore, annually, to meet the deficit of 100 MW from the energy market.&amp;nbsp;“When the power cost goes up, our tariff also will go up,” Ovung said, projecting that the energy tariff could reach Rs 15 per unit within five years.The state has hydro energy potential but he said that building hydel dams is held back by land acquisition hurdles – while taking years, and lots of investment – making solar a relatively quick, cost-effective and reliable alternative.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;He said that the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and Nagaland&#039;s very own Chief Minister&#039;s Community Solar Partnership initiative are “a good opportunity” to become energy-independent. The former is for individual households, while the latter is for community spaces and assets.&amp;nbsp;Under the state’s Chief Minister’s programme, solar units have already been installed across community halls in 14 of the 24 selected villages in Chümoukedima.He appealed to residents to bring electricity bills, identity cards, and bank details to the Seva Setu camp for on-the-spot registration. The Prime Minister’s solar scheme can also be availed through soft loans.&amp;nbsp;Later asked the probable reasons for the poor response, Ovung surmised it could be linked to consumers accustomed to paying minimum electricity charges, adding that the eventual consolidation of smart meters and rising tariffs would push households toward rooftop solar.&amp;nbsp;He stated that Dimapur leads the state with over 200 installations under the scheme, while Chümoukedima holds the largest overall solar capacity at nearly 800 kW through private and community installations.A beneficiary, at the event today, said that he installed a 3 kW unit by securing a low-interest bank loan. He added that residents can avail banking assistance at the Seva Setu camp as well.PHED Minister Jacob Zhimomi, who was the special guest, said that growing urbanisation has driven up power consumption, turning electricity bills into a household strain. He encouraged residents to use the scheme to lower their expenses.“When we purchase power with hard cash, we only recover around 40 percent in revenue; it is running at a deficit, with no recovery,” Zhimomi said.The Minister observed that the 10,000-household target covers only a fraction of Nagaland’s 1487 villages. He also cautioned empanelled vendors against installing substandard equipment, warning that the public would hold them accountable.&amp;nbsp;Zhimomi, who received a 3 kW solar unit donated by empanelled vendors during the event, handed the system over to the Sovima Village Council for installation at its community hall. He insisted that Chümoukedima, Dimapur, and Niuland should work towards becoming model districts in the transition to solar energy.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-recording-poor-response-to-subsidised-solar-energy-scheme</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:17:06 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Duly appointed GBs in Nagaland has voting rights in Village Councils: HC]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/duly-appointed-gbs-in-nagaland-has-voting-rights-in-village-councils-hc</link>
                <description><![CDATA[•&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Dismisses petition challenging Old Jalukie Village Council chairman’s selection•&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Rules hereditary status not mandatory for GBs’ ex-officio membershipMorung Express News&amp;nbsp;Dimapur | October 14The Gauhati High Court Kohima Bench (GHCKB) &amp;nbsp;has held that duly appointed Gaonburas (GBs) are ex-officio members of Village Councils with voting rights, irrespective of whether their positions are hereditary or not, provided they are validly recognised by the competent authority.In a judgment delivered on October 13, Justice Yarenjungla Longkumer dismissed a writ petition challenging the selection of the chairman of Old Jalukie Village Council for the 2026–2031 tenure.Why the selection was challengedThe petition was filed a former chairman of Old Jalukie Village Council who had also been selected as a new member for the 2026–2031 tenure and intended to contest for the chairmanship.The dispute arose after a meeting on March 28, 2026, convened by the Head GB of Old Jalukie, in which the newly selected Village Council members and incumbent GBs chose another as the chairman.Accordingly, the ex-chairman challenged the meeting proceedings on the ground that the GBs of Old Jalukie, belonging to the Zeliang community, held non-hereditary positions and therefore could not be treated as ex-officio members of the Village Council with voting rights.He argued that their participation in choosing the chairman violated Section 4 of the 1978 Act.The petitioner sought to prevent the State government from approving new chairman’s selection and requested a fresh meeting of the Village Council members to choose a chairman without the GBs’ participation.Petitioner’s contentionThe petitioner’s counsel argued that the GBs of Old Jalukie were not hereditary village chiefs and, under Zeliang customary practices, the office of GB was filled through appointment rather than hereditary succession.According to the petitioner, a vacancy arising from the death or resignation of a GB was filled by appointing another eligible candidate rather than passing the position to the next of kin. The GBs, therefore, could not claim ex-officio membership or voting rights under Section 4, the petitioner contended.The petitioner also challenged the State government’s clarification of October 28, 2022, which recognised GBs as ex-officio permanent members of Village Councils with voting rights. The court noted that a government order or circular cannot override statutory provisions.State government’s positionOpposing the petition, the State government submitted that GBs have long played an integral role in village administration and customary dispute resolution among the Zeliang community.It stated that village elders traditionally resolved disputes within their respective khels, while issues involving different clans or khels were settled collectively.The government argued that GBs had become integral to the customary governance framework and had routinely participated in Village Council meetings as ex-officio members with voting rights since the enactment of the 1978 Act.It further contended that Section 4 lists “hereditary village chiefs, GBs and Anghs” as ex-officio members, and that the word “hereditary” should not be read as a qualification applying to all three categories.The private respondents, including the Head GB and the selected chairman, also maintained that the selection was conducted in accordance with prevailing customary practices and the provisions of the Act.Court’s interpretation&amp;nbsp;The principal question before the court was whether the word “hereditary” in Section 4 applies to all three categories - village chiefs, GBs and Anghs or only to village chiefs, leaving GBs and Anghs as separate categories entitled to ex-officio membership and voting rights.The provision states that a Village Council shall comprise members chosen by villagers according to prevailing customary practices and usages approved by the State government, while “hereditory Village Chiefs GBs and Angs” shall be ex-officio members with voting rights.The court observed that statutory interpretation cannot be determined solely by punctuation or grammatical construction. The provision must instead be read in its wider context, considering the purpose of the law and the circumstances in which it operates.It noted that hereditary succession to the office of village chief or GB is associated with customary arrangements among the Sumi Nagas, while GBs in other Naga communities are ordinarily appointed or selected on a non-hereditary basis. The court also referred to hereditary succession among the Kuki tribe.The judgment cited a 2007 Full Bench decision in Tukiye v. ADC(J), Zunheboto, which recorded the customary position among the Sumi Nagas, where the offices of village chief and Gaonbura were one and the same and hereditary.Against this background, the court observed that extending the word “hereditary” to all categories in Section 4 would effectively restrict voting rights to GBs in communities where the office is hereditary, excluding GBs appointed or selected under the customary practices of other tribes.The court also noted that non-hereditary GBs had routinely participated as voting members in Village Councils across different villages and tribal areas, a practice accepted by the State government over many years.It considered the government’s October 28, 2022 clarification and this established practice as supporting the interpretation that “hereditary” qualifies only village chiefs.Court’s conclusionThe court held that the word “hereditary” should not automatically be extended to every category appearing after it in Section 4 of the Act.It ruled that duly appointed GBs are ex-officio members of their respective Village Councils with voting rights, regardless of whether the office of GB is hereditary in the community concerned, subject to valid recognition by the competent authority.The court, however, clarified that the ruling does not confer ex-officio status on persons who have not been duly appointed or recognised as GBs, nor does it alter the distinct customary position of hereditary village chiefs or GBs under the provision.Holding that the petitioner had failed to establish grounds for interference under its writ jurisdiction, the court declined to interfere with the impugned orders and dismissed the petition. Any interim order was also vacated.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/duly-appointed-gbs-in-nagaland-has-voting-rights-in-village-councils-hc</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:16:56 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland Police to recruit 1137 Constables]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-police-to-recruit-1137-constables</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The Nagaland Police has invited applications from eligible male and female candidates belonging to indigenous Naga tribe of Nagaland for recruitment to 1137 posts of Constable (General Duty) through open rally.According to an advertisement issued by the Office of the Director General of Police, Nagaland, the recruitment will be conducted by a Departmental Recruitment Board (DRB) duly constituted and authorised District Level Screening Committees (DLSC) simultaneously across all district headquarters. “Non-Indigenous Tribes applicants shall not be eligible,” the notification stated.The vacancies comprise 1053 posts being filled in compliance with judgments and orders of the Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench, dated September 20, 2024, in Case No. W.P(C) 189-199/2022, and dated September 26, 2024, in Case No. W.P(C) 318/2022, along with 84 backlog vacancies of Constables (GD) arising from the preceding Recruitment-2025.The 1053 posts carry a pay scale of Level-3 with Grade Pay of Rs 1800 in the pay band of Rs 5200-20,200. Post allotment will be done as per tribal ratio based on the 2011 Census, as was followed in the preceding recruitment.The 84 backlog posts, also in the same pay scale, are applicable only for those tribes and districts whose vacancies could not be filled in the recruitment advertised vide notification dated September 30, 2025.Under the backlog category, Mokokchung district has 47 vacancies for the Ao tribe and one for Phom, while Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland has eight for Ao, nine for Sumi, four for Chakhesang (three male, one female), one each for Chang, Khiamniungan and Rengma, two for Phom, and three each for Sangtam (three male, one female) and Zeliang. Tseminyu district has three vacancies for the Rengma tribe. The Phom backlog vacancy is reserved only for members of the Phom tribe belonging to Anaki (Old) and Anaki &#039;C&#039; villages under Mokokchung district, it stated.&amp;nbsp;The online application window will open on October 31, 2026, and close on November 30, 2026.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-police-to-recruit-1137-constables</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:16:42 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/50787535_1792000002_thumb_29899175_1792000002_Nagaland Police.jfif"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[EF&CC Dept and CCYO reach amicable settlement]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/efcc-dept-and-ccyo-reach-amicable-settlement</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kohima, October 14 (MExN): The Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Centre Chakhesang Youth Organisation (CCYO) on Wednesday resolved their differences amicably with regard to the three demands raised by the latter, following the intervention of Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio.The two sides, at a meeting held at Japfu Hotel Kohima at 2 PM, reached an agreement to settle the matter outside the court, stated a ‘Joint Declaration’ appended by PCCF &amp; HoFF Vedpal Singh, IFS, and CCYO President Dode Nakro.Of the three demands made by the CCYO to the government, the demand for immediate return of the bird (Great Barbet) seized from Porba village was settled on September 30, 2026, and the bird was jointly released back in the community forest of Porba village.On the demand for immediate withdrawal of the case against Vezhoto Hesuh, together with appropriate corrective action, the Department had a meeting with the CCYO on October 1, 2026 to resolve the issue amicably outside the court. However, it was delayed as the Department alone cannot settle the case without the cooperation of Vezhoto Hesuh and the Court of Law.On the demand for an independent, impartial enquiry into the allegation of the Rs 1 lakh demand, including identification of the officials involved, the police have already initiated an enquiry and the outcome is awaited.Vezhoto Hesuh had declared that he is ignorant of any of the laws and lacked awareness and had acted on a rescue mission only. He also expressed his desire to settle the issue outside the court, it stated.&amp;nbsp;The Department and the CCYO appreciated the efforts of the Chief Minister, Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Village Guards CL John, MLA and Advisor Science and Technology Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, and Y Kikheto Sema, IAS, Principal Secretary and Development Commissioner, Nagaland, “for a settlement outside the court through amicable means.”&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/efcc-dept-and-ccyo-reach-amicable-settlement</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:16:42 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Kohima-Jessami Road: JAC gives contractor October 30 ultimatum]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/kohima-jessami-road-jac-gives-contractor-october-30-ultimatum</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kohima, October 14 (MExN): A joint action committee on the Kohima-Jessami Road NH-29 on Wednesday expressed strong resentment over the alleged continued negligence of M/s Ratna Infrastructure Project Ltd and the NHIDCL, and set an October 30 deadline for the company to mobilise all required machinery and materials at the site.In a meeting held at the Red Cross building Kohima, the JAC, after thorough deliberation, said the company must honour its written assurance to mobilise all required machineries and materials to the site on or before October 30, 2026.&amp;nbsp;“In the event of failure to fulfil the said assurance, the JAC shall be compelled to initiate any appropriate action, and the company shall be solely responsible for all consequences arising therefrom,” it said in Resolution No. 1. In Resolution No. 2, the JAC resolved to write to the Executive Director, NHIDCL, and the EPC contractor of Package-1 to immediately repair the damaged road stretch as per the norms of the contract agreement.The house expressed strong resentment over the alleged failure of M/s Ratna Infrastructure Project Ltd and the NHIDCL to deliver justice to the affected people. The meeting was attended by various stakeholders, including representatives of Chakhesang frontal organisations, and Pochury, Sangtam and Angami representatives, besides village representatives from Kezoma.The meeting update was issued by Vivolie Kezo, Convenor, Joint Action Committee (JAC), Kohima-Jessami Road NH-29.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/kohima-jessami-road-jac-gives-contractor-october-30-ultimatum</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:16:37 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[157 displaced, 23 houses  destroyed in Kiusam circle]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/157-displaced-23-houses-destroyed-in-kiusam-circle</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kiphire, October 14 (MExN): At least 23 houses were burnt and 157 people displaced in the Kiusam circle of Pungro Subdivision under Kiphire district following the recent outbreak of conflict between Tikhir and Yimkhiung communities, as per the official assessment carried out by the district administration.According to assessment reported through the state IPR report, 12 houses were burnt, five partially damaged and one motorcycle burnt in Pokphur village, displacing 60 persons. In Longtsunger village, 11 houses were burnt and one house vandalized, displacing 83 people. Besides, 14 people from Thulun village were reported to be displaced at the time of filing of this report.A day after the conflict broke out, the administration led by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kiphire Headquarters, Longdiba L Sangtam, NCS, along with in-charge officials, began a detailed assessment of damaged properties and the number of people displaced around Kiusam circle.Deputy Commissioner Kiphire Temsuwati Longkumer, NCS, and Superintendent of Police Kiphire Chinese Chakhesang, NPS, also undertook a visit to the affected villages under Kiusam circle on October 13 along with the charged officials.IR police personnel have been deployed at Kiusam Headquarters, Longtsunger village and Pokphur village to control law and order, while relief and rehabilitation efforts continue to be carried out tirelessly.The prevailing law and order situation continues to remain tense but under control, the report said.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/157-displaced-23-houses-destroyed-in-kiusam-circle</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:16:35 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NBCC calls for reconciliation among  Tikhir and Yimkhiung communities]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nbcc-calls-for-reconciliation-among-tikhir-and-yimkhiung-communities</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kohima, October 14 (MExN): A delegation of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) on Wednesday held prayer and consultation meetings with the Tikhir Tribal Council (TTC) at Kiusam and the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC) at Shamator, appealing to both communities to uphold peace and pursue reconciliation amid the prevailing situation.The meetings were attended by public leaders, representatives of associations and church leaders, according to a statement issued here.NBCC delegation with the leaders of Yimkhiung Tribal Council and church leaders.&amp;nbsp;The NBCC delegation engaged with both communities “in a spirit of prayer, seeking God’s wisdom and guidance amid the prevailing situation.” The council appealed to both communities to uphold peace, pursue reconciliation and strengthen mutual understanding, it said.&amp;nbsp;It encouraged the leaders and communities to exercise wisdom, restraint and a spirit of forgiveness, emphasising the importance of dialogue and peaceful coexistence in resolving differences.The NBCC reaffirmed its commitment to praying and working towards lasting peace, reconciliation and harmony among the communities.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nbcc-calls-for-reconciliation-among-tikhir-and-yimkhiung-communities</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:16:29 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland University hosts ICSSR  RMC on digital research tools]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-university-hosts-icssr-rmc-on-digital-research-tools</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Our CorrespondentKohima | October 14A ten day Research Methodology Course (RMC) on “Enhancing Research Capacities through Digital Tools: From Theory to Practice” organised by Department of Teacher Education, Nagaland University, Kohima Campus, Meriema and sponsored by Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) concluded on October 14.Addressing the valedictory function, Dr Nigamananda Das, Senior Professor, Department of English, Nagaland University, described the RMC as educative, relevant and fruitful exercise and urged upon the participants from across the country to become expert in their respective fields and contribute for social growth and development.He also encouraged them to keep writing research papers and gain recognition for their expertise.Later, he released a book on “Work Life Balance among women: Challenges opportunities transformation” written by Prof. Anju Verma and Dr. Seema Rani Thappa.Presenting consolidated report of the ten day course, Angukali S Swu, PhD Scholar, Department of Teacher Education said that the RMC held from October 5 to 14, aimed to strengthen research competencies through expert lectures, practical demonstrations, and hands-on activities covering digital research tools, literature reviews, data analysis, academic publishing, plagiarism detection, and research ethics.&amp;nbsp;Professor GN Tiwari’s discussed on the theoretical foundations of digital research tools. He emphasized that conceptual understanding and critical thinking must take precedence over blind dependence on technology.Professor Pranab Prabhakar talked on research quality indicators, including the H-index, Impact Factor, and SCImago Journal Rank (SJR), highlighting that research quality cannot be determined by publication metrics alone.Dr Anu GS took session on the ethical aspects of digital technologies, addressing data privacy, responsible technology use, and research ethics.Professor PK Patnaik discussed technology integration in the context of the National Education Policy 2020, highlighting digital learning platforms, Open Educational Resources, virtual laboratories, and the role of technology in strengthening higher education.Dr Sushil Kumar Singh demonstrated the applications of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint in academic writing, data management, and research presentations.Dr Monita Wahengbam, explored AI-supported data analysis, Agentic AI, and research platforms such as Consensus and SciSpace.Dr Thongam Thomas Singh introduced participants to Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Forms, Slides, and Analytics. The demonstrations covered document management, collaborative research, questionnaire development, data collection, and digital data organisation.Dr Roopam Bachhil introduced Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), with reference to SPSS and AMOS. Participants gained insights into data cleaning, sampling adequacy, factor analysis, and examining relationships among research constructs.Dr Subhashish Banerjee, delivered a lecture entitled “Researching the More-than-Human World: Digital Humanities and Arboreal Consciousness.”Professor Manoj Saxena discussed plagiarism, authorship concerns, publication ethics, and the responsible use of AI in academic writing.Professor Amit Gautam of NIEPA conducted sessions on AI applications in different fields and their relevance to research.Dr K Thiyagu Suriya Q from Central University of Karnataka introduced digital tools such as VOSviewer, R, Dimensions, and Bibliometrix.Dr Prabhakar Sharma discussed journal selection, publication procedures, journal metrics, and the identification of predatory and cloned journals.Dr Prasenjit Pal, focused on developing research instruments such as questionnaires, checklists, rating scales, and schedules. The session also introduced JASP statistical software.Professor Vimal Kishor from Central University of Jharkhand discussed the role of Open Educational Resources in promoting accessible, affordable, and inclusive education.Dr Subhash Mishra of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, focused on qualitative data analysis and the systematic interpretation of textual and descriptive information.Dr Chanlang Ki Bareh, Prof. Ashutosh Tripathi, Dr Seema Rani Thappa and Prof Lungsang Zeliang also spoke on the programme.Chairing the valedictory function, Dr Prasenjit Pal said that “In the modern academic and professional landscape, research and digital tools have become inextricably linked, fundamentally transforming how knowledge is discovered, analysed, and shared.”He said that digital research platforms-ranging from scholarly search engines like Google Scholar and Semantic Scholar to specialised databases allow scholars to rapidly access vast libraries of peer-reviewed literature from anywhere in the world.Shivam Mohra from Central University of Haryana was declared as the Best Research paper while Visalieto Lhousa from Nagaland University bagged second place. Anisha Chhetri from Sikkim Central University was adjusted as the Best Poster Presentation while Zevisanuo Khate from Nagaland University stood second place. Anisha Chhetri, from Sikkim Central University, Mintu Kumar from Tezpur University, Raj Kr Chhetri from NU Kohima Campus and C Yelih Konyak from Nagaland University, Lumami shared their experiences.Meanwhile, Prof Anju Verma proposed the vote of thanks. Mentioanably, Prof N Venuh, Pro-Vice Chancellor NU Kohima Campus and Prof Jano S Leigise, Dean, School of Humanities &amp; Education, NU-Kohima Campus were the patron and co-patron respectively of the RMC.Following the academic session, participants, accompanied by the course coordinators, visited Khonoma Village for cultural and environmental exposure.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-university-hosts-icssr-rmc-on-digital-research-tools</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:15:49 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland bags PMAY-U award  for high completion rate of houses]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-bags-pmay-u-award-for-high-completion-rate-of-houses</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kohima, October 14 (MExN): Nagaland has been recognised in the ‘Best Performing State in North Eastern and Hilly States and Union Territories’ category under the Beneficiary Led Construction (BLC) vertical of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban (PMAY-U) Awards 2026.The award was presented recently by okhan Sahu, Minister of State, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, on October 5, 2026, during the celebration of World Habitat Day 2026.The recognition was conferred on the state for achieving the highest completion of BLC houses against the total sanctioned units under PMAY-U.According to the figures provided, Nagaland has completed 98.06 per cent of the 29,973 dwelling units sanctioned under the scheme, reflecting significant progress in urban housing implementation.The state was represented at the award ceremony by Kekhrievor Kevichusa, Commissioner and Secretary, Municipal Affairs, and Temjenrenla Kechu, Director of Municipal Affairs and State Mission Director, PMAY-U.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-bags-pmay-u-award-for-high-completion-rate-of-houses</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:12:30 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[JCF raises concern over irregular  garbage collection, urges DMC action]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/jcf-raises-concern-over-irregular-garbage-collection-urges-dmc-action</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The Joint Council Forum (JCF), comprising Middle Point Council, Churches Colony Council, NST Colony Council, Nyamo Lotha Colony Council and Khermahal Area Council, has raised concerns over irregular sanitation services in various localities and urged the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) to take immediate corrective measures.In a statement issued in public interest, the JCF said garbage collection remained irregular despite residents regularly paying the enhanced Residential Sanitary Fee (RSF).The situation had led to the accumulation of waste, causing inconvenience to households and posing risks to public health and hygiene, it said.The forum said sanitation was a fundamental civic service linked to public health, cleanliness and the dignity of every household, and should be delivered with regularity, transparency and accountability.The JCF appealed to the DMC to ensure timely and scheduled waste collection across all wards and strengthen on-ground monitoring to prevent service gaps.It also called for clear communication with residents regarding waste collection schedules and corrective measures to address lapses in service delivery.While acknowledging the challenges of managing civic services in a growing city, the forum expressed its willingness to extend cooperation at the community level.The JCF expressed confidence that the DMC would treat the matter with urgency and take immediate steps to ensure efficient and reliable sanitation services.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/jcf-raises-concern-over-irregular-garbage-collection-urges-dmc-action</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:10:48 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[CAWD Advisor reviews departmental works]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/cawd-advisor-reviews-departmental-works</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kohima, October 14 (MExN): Nagaland Civil Administration Works Division (CAWD) Advisor Kudecho Khamo conducted a coordination meeting with CAWD officials at the department’s conference hall in Kohima on October 14.Highlighting the extensive administrative network across Nagaland’s 17 districts, Khamo pointed out that the administration extended from Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to Extra Assistant Commissioners (EACs) at various headquarters. He acknowledged the difficult working and living conditions faced by administrative officers in some parts of the state, particularly the lack of adequate infrastructure and residential facilities.He said the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, was working to improve these facilities gradually, acknowledging that the process could not be completed all at once, to enable officers to discharge their responsibilities with dignity.He underscored the importance of preparing Detailed Project Report (DPRs) on time to facilitate the execution and timely completion of projects, adding that infrastructure development needed to keep pace with the requirements of the state&#039;s administrative machinery.Khamo expressed concern over instances where landowners continued to create obstacles to government projects despite having handed over their land after receiving due compensation and employment benefits. Describing such practices as traditionally wrong and morally sinful, he said they hindered development.The Advisor also welcomed the posting of the new CAWD Assistant Chief Engineer (ACE), Er Ketuoselie Kenguruse.Earlier, Vekhoyi Chakhesang, Deputy Commissioner from the Office of the Commissioner, Nagaland, welcomed the new Assistant Chief Engineer and emphasised the need to address the requirements of administrative officers posted in the districts.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/cawd-advisor-reviews-departmental-works</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:07:37 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[ENDBU urges restrain between  Tikhir and Yimkiung communities]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/endbu-urges-restrain-between-tikhir-and-yimkiung-communities</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The Eastern Nagaland Dobashi&#039;s Union (ENDBU) has issued an earnest appeal for sanity and peace following recurring violence between the Tikhir and Yimkiung communities.&amp;nbsp;In a statement issued on October 13, 2026, and signed by G/Secretary Ngoubangsomba and President Imkong Phom, the union expressed deep grief that the ongoing cycle of hate and violence continues to claim precious lives despite collective yearnings for peace and goodwill. &amp;nbsp;&quot;Let us face the heard truth that &#039;Violence offers no Solution&#039;. It does not bring justice. It only breeds suffering and bitterness. There is no victory in a grieving land,&quot; the statement read.&amp;nbsp;The ENDBU has urged community leaders, mothers, fathers, and particularly the youth to turn away from the path of violence.&amp;nbsp;The union also called for collective prayers, expressing hope that the wisdom of the people will prevail to secure a shared future built on peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/endbu-urges-restrain-between-tikhir-and-yimkiung-communities</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:06:00 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[DNSU condemns alleged Langkho  drone attack, demands AFSPA repeal]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/dnsu-condemns-alleged-langkho-drone-attack-demands-afspa-repeal</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has condemned the October 3 drone attack on Langkho village in the Naga Self-Administered Zone (NSAZ), which injured two civilians, including a minor girl, and caused extensive damage to civilian properties.In a statement issued on Wednesday, the DNSU expressed profound outrage over the attack and said the deliberate or indiscriminate targeting of civilian-populated areas constituted a violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), including the Geneva Conventions and the core principles of the United Nations Charter, irrespective of the identity of the perpetrators.The union said military operations under international law must adhere to the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution, adding that aerial strikes in inhabited civilian areas disregarded human life, dignity and fundamental international legal norms.“Civilian lives, especially those of women and children, are sacred and cannot be dismissed as ‘collateral damage’ under any circumstances,” the DNSU said, adding that reckless military actions in civilian territories created fear, insecurity and trauma among innocent populations.The union demanded an immediate halt to all military operations and aerial strikes in civilian-populated areas in accordance with international humanitarian standards.The DNSU also expressed grave concern over the re-extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) across the Naga homeland by the Ministry of Home Affairs, with effect from October 1, 2026.For decades, AFSPA had acted as an instrument of fear and oppression, shielding perpetrators through legal immunity while stripping people of their fundamental human rights, the union alleged.Demanding the immediate repeal of AFSPA from the entire Naga homeland, the DNSU said its withdrawal was necessary to restore human rights, democratic values and genuine peace.The union also expressed solidarity with the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) and the victims of the Langkho attack.It called upon international human rights organisations, the United Nations and civil society bodies to take cognisance of the alleged violations and ensure justice for the affected people.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/dnsu-condemns-alleged-langkho-drone-attack-demands-afspa-repeal</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 23:04:44 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/77079725_1791999284_thumb_76480834_1791999284_Dimapur Naga Students&#039; Union.jpg"/>

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                            <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Reflections - October 15, 2026]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/reflections-october-15-2026</link>
                <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
                <category>
                        Reflections
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/reflections-october-15-2026</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:55:00 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Manipur CM calls for collective efforts to restore peace, strengthen unity]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/manipur-cm-calls-for-collective-efforts-to-restore-peace-strengthen-unity</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Imphal, October 14 (IANS): Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday called for collective efforts to restore peace and strengthen unity among the state’s diverse communities, stressing that mutual understanding and a shared commitment to work together were essential for the state’s progress. &amp;nbsp;The Chief Minister was speaking at the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan programme held at Chumthang Shanapung under the Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Assembly constituency in Imphal West district.The month-long Seva Sankalp Abhiyan is being organised to mark 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s public service and leadership.Khemchand Singh observed that despite expressing love for Manipur, some people remained unwilling to go beyond the valley region and embrace all communities. He emphasised that Manipur, home to 36 communities, needed leaders capable of bringing people together and fostering unity.Speaking on India’s economic progress, the Chief Minister stated that the country had been progressing towards becoming one of the world’s fastest-growing economies since Narendra Modi became Prime Minister. He noted that India had entered the top four economies globally in terms of economic growth.Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, Khemchand Singh stated that as India moves towards becoming a developed nation, the people of Manipur must also contribute meaningfully to achieving this national goal. He stressed that efforts to restore peace in the State must be pursued collectively, with all sections of society working together towards this objective.Citing Singapore as an example, the Chief Minister said that while there were valuable lessons to be learnt from the experiences of other countries, people must also be willing to learn, work hard and bring about positive changes in their own society. Highlighting the development of Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Assembly Constituency, he stated that roads in the constituency were now being constructed using the rigid pavement system, although the construction process required considerable time.As part of the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, outreach camps were organised by 42 different government departments, enabling people to access government services, obtain information and avail themselves of various welfare schemes.The programme was attended by MLAs Sagolshem Kebi Devi and Tongbram Robindro Singh; Chairperson, Imphal West Zilla Parishad, R.K. Taruni Devi; officials of various government departments; local representatives and members of the public.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/manipur-cm-calls-for-collective-efforts-to-restore-peace-strengthen-unity</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:52:31 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland launches GHH Scheme;  121238 beneficiaries identified]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-launches-ghh-scheme-121238-beneficiaries-identified</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The Department of Food and Civil Supplies, Government of Nagaland, launched the General Household (GHH) Scheme at the Directorate of Food and Civil Supplies, Dimapur on October 14.&amp;nbsp;The scheme extends food grain support to eligible households not covered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, protecting them against food inflation and seasonal grain shortages, stated a DIPR report.&amp;nbsp;Launching the scheme, Advisor for Food and Civil Supplies KT Sukhalu (IAS Retd) said it addresses the shortfall in food grain allocation after NFSA implementation and extends food security support to households excluded from the existing PDS.He said it is open to all eligible Indian citizens, including indigenous and non-indigenous residents who meet the prescribed criteria. He said 1,21,238 beneficiaries were identified in the first phase, with the number expected to rise as implementation progresses.On the Centre’s Tide Over Rice allocation, he said the provision has existed since 2017 to meet additional food grain needs. Under it, the state appoints stockists who lift food grains from FCI at their own expense, subject to government regulations.He said the department often receives requests for rice during festivals, jubilees and celebrations, and from old-age homes, destitute persons and social organisations. Assistance has also been extended in cases such as fire incidents, based on requests from district administrations and with approval from the competent authority.Sukhalu clarified that the Tide Over allocation is not a free distribution scheme, and that food grains provided for relief are purchased through the concerned agencies, including disaster management authorities where applicable.He said the department has completed the groundwork to streamline distribution and address confusion over the allocation mechanism, and hoped the GHH Scheme would dispel misconceptions and promote greater transparency in food grain distribution.Secretary of Food and Civil Supplies Wonchio Odyuo, NCS, said the GHH Scheme is being implemented under the State Government&#039;s guidelines for the Tide Over allocation of the National Food Security Act, 2013.Eligible households must have an annual income of Rs 2.5 lakh or above and be indigenous inhabitants of Nagaland or bona fide Indian citizens. Non-indigenous residents must submit a self-declaration certificate. Applicants must not hold active AAY, PHH, or other PDS ration cards, per the one-card policy.The eldest female member aged 18 or above will be Head of Family (HoF) for the ration card; in her absence, the eldest male member will be HoF. Enrolment is Aadhaar-based. Each beneficiary will receive 5 kg of rice per month at a subsidised rate on payment, distributed through verified Fair Price Shops in urban and rural areas, with monitoring by district administrations.Odyuo said effective implementation is expected to improve food grain access for identified General Household beneficiaries, strengthen last-mile delivery through FPSs and local institutions, and promote transparency in allocation and distribution. It will also enhance coordination among the Directorate, district administrations, Village Councils, and FPS dealers while establishing reliable monitoring and reporting.So far, 26,982 GHH ration cards have been generated, covering 1,19,401 units, with a total food grain allocation of 5,97,455 kg.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-launches-ghh-scheme-121238-beneficiaries-identified</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:49:28 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[KVC mandates registration of  property transfers and mortgages]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/kvc-mandates-registration-of-property-transfers-and-mortgages</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The Kuda Village Council (KVC) has issued a directive regarding the regulation of landed property transfers and mortgages within its jurisdiction.&amp;nbsp;In a communication to the Dimapur District Deputy Commissioner on October 14, 2026, the KVC noted that Kuda Village—established in 1941 as Nagarjan—is the first Naga village within the peripheral area of Dimapur town and continues to function under &quot;The Nagaland Village And Tribal Councils Act, 1978&quot;.&amp;nbsp;Accordingly, the KVC invoked Section 15(g) of the 1978 Act, which empowers the council to grant consent for every transfer of immovable property and maintain official written records to check illegal or unauthorized transactions.&amp;nbsp;The council noted that these protective measures trace back to Section 7 of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) 1873, Sections 160–162 of the Assam Land Revenue Regulations of 1886, Point 16 of the 16-Point Agreement, and the Nagaland Land and Revenue Regulation (Amendment) Act, 1978.&amp;nbsp;Following government notification No. LR/2-118/76 dated November 21, 1979, Dimapur was declared a tribal belt, restricting land transfers strictly to indigenous inhabitants of Nagaland.&amp;nbsp;To combat a rising wave of land scams, such as individuals mortgaging or selling the same plot to multiple parties, the council has mandated that any property owner intending to create a charge (such as a mortgage for bank or private loans) must compulsorily register it with the KVC.&amp;nbsp;The council announced that it will not impose any fees for obtaining written consent or for registering property charges.&amp;nbsp;Furthermore, the KVC cautioned that individuals buying, accepting, or mortgaging properties without council consent or registration do so entirely at their own risk and peril.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/kvc-mandates-registration-of-property-transfers-and-mortgages</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:46:58 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland: HC reserves judgment on Yaongyimsen ‘excommunication’ case]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-hc-reserves-judgment-on-yaongyimsen-excommunication-case</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Morung Express NewsDimapur | October 13The Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench, has reserved its judgment in a case challenging the excommunication of 38 individuals and their families from Yaongyimsen village in Mokokchung district.In an order dated October 13, Justice Yarenjungla Longkumer recorded that the hearing had concluded and reserved judgment in the matter.The petitioners had approached the court challenging decisions of the Yaongyimsen Riongsanger Putu Menden (Village Council) and the Yaongyimsen Senso Mundang, which allegedly excommunicated them and their families from village citizenship.According to the case background recorded in an earlier court order dated May 29, 2025, the petitioners, originally from Yaongyimsen but residing in Chümoukedima, had formed an association in 1989 with villagers living there.&amp;nbsp;However, a dispute arose when the Putu Menden and Senso Mundang asked petitioners to declare their formation and establishment in the year 2021, it added.&amp;nbsp;Subsequently, the village bodies issued three orders dated April 4, October 21 and December 10, 2024, excommunicating the 38 petitioners and their families from village citizenship.The petitioners challenged these orders before the High Court, contending that the excommunication had caused them difficulties, including prohibiting them from entering the village, and violated their fundamental rights under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution.In its May 2025 order, the High Court, in an interim, had stayed the three excommunication orders.On October 13, counsel for the petitioners, the village bodies and the State respondents were heard before the court reserved its judgment.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-hc-reserves-judgment-on-yaongyimsen-excommunication-case</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:45:38 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[LVC clarify October 10 incident]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/lvc-clarify-october-10-incident</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kiphire, October 14 (MExN): The Longtsunger Village Citizens (LVC) has issued an official statement to clarify the sequence of events surrounding the October 10, 2026 violence in Longtsunger village, aiming to counter widespread misinformation and rumours on social media.&amp;nbsp;According to the LVC, villagers were going about their daily lives in peace when armed intruders from the Kiusam area equipped with sophisticated weaponry entered the village without warning.&amp;nbsp;The attackers allegedly targeted the residence of the Village Council Chairman, damaged property, set fire to residential structures and public properties, and opened fire with heavy firearms.&amp;nbsp;In response, local residents confronted the attackers, resulting in a violent clash where one alleged intruder was shot dead at the scene and others sustained injuries. The deceased was subsequently taken into the custody of the civil administration.&amp;nbsp;Strongly condemning the incident as a pre-planned attack involving an armed mob, the LVC has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the violence and the destruction of property.&amp;nbsp;The LVC also expressed grave concern over the alleged dereliction of duty by nine Village Guards (VGs) assigned to protect the village, stating that the personnel failed to discharge their responsibilities, deserted their posts, and absconded with government-issued weapons.&amp;nbsp;The union demanded immediate government intervention, a thorough inquiry, and legal action against the concerned personnel.&amp;nbsp;While expressing sorrow over the tragic incident, the LVC urged authorities to ensure justice, maintain peace, and prevent further violence.&amp;nbsp;The union further cautioned that any further intrusion or action threatening the village&#039;s peace and territorial integrity would be viewed with utmost seriousness, while calling upon all concerned to respect the rule of law.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/lvc-clarify-october-10-incident</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:44:43 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[RPF rescues 591 children, 22 trafficking victims in nine months]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/rpf-rescues-591-children-22-trafficking-victims-in-nine-months</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Maligaon, October 14 (MExN): The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) rescued 591 children and 22 trafficking victims from trains and railway premises between January and September this year, an official NFR update stated on Wednesday.Of the 591 children rescued under Operation ‘Nanhe Farishtey’, 387 were boys and 204 were girls. They were found to be runaways, left behind, destitute or missing, according to an NFR statement.During the same period, the RPF rescued 22 trafficking victims, including 13 minors — eight boys and five girls — and nine women, while apprehending 10 alleged traffickers.The force has also stepped up measures to ensure passenger security, with particular emphasis on the safety and dignity of women travelling alone, through preventive measures, onboard security and prompt grievance redressal.Under the ‘Meri Saheli’ initiative, dedicated teams have been deployed at 22 major stations across NFR to interact with women passengers, particularly those travelling alone, provide assistance and help make their journeys safer and more comfortable.RPF personnel escort an average of 45 trains daily across NFR, including 13 Mail and Express trains covered by mixed escort teams comprising male and female personnel.To prevent unauthorised entry into ladies’ compartments, the force regularly conducts special drives against male passengers violating railway rules. Between January and September 2026, 2,466 persons were apprehended and prosecuted under Section 162 of the Railways Act.Further, between June 19 and September 30, 219 persons were apprehended and penalties amounting to approximately Rs 4.9 lakh were realised under the Jan Vishwas Act, the statement said.Under Operation ‘Matrishakti’, which focuses on assisting pregnant passengers requiring help during childbirth, RPF personnel, particularly women officials, assisted in two childbirth cases on railway premises during the current year.Awareness videos on railway safety and assistance available to women passengers are also regularly shared through the social media handles of RPF/NFR and the official platforms of NFR.In another initiative, the force has used the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal to trace lost or stolen mobile phones. A total of 2,437 phones have been traced, of which 352 were recovered, while 21 criminals were arrested in connection with these cases.The RPF also apprehended and prosecuted 1,023 persons under Section 145 of the Railways Act for nuisance and disorderly conduct on railway premises during the first nine months of 2026.During September, the force received passenger grievances through the Rail Madad platform relating to 321 cases of luggage left behind, 52 cases of passenger nuisance, seven complaints of misbehaviour with women passengers, 126 cases involving missing or non-responsive passengers, and 27 cases concerning unauthorised persons in ladies’, disabled or reserved coaches.RPF personnel responded to the complaints and resolved the reported issues, the statement said.Between January and September, the force registered 434 cases of theft of passenger belongings. Of these, 241 cases were detected, leading to the arrest of 315 criminals.]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/rpf-rescues-591-children-22-trafficking-victims-in-nine-months</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:43:48 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Bank of Baroda extends support to TNT Centre in Aizawl]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/bank-of-baroda-extends-support-to-tnt-centre-in-aizawl</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Aizawl, October 14 (MExN): Bank of Baroda has extended support to the Thutak Nunpuitu Team (TNT) Centre at Muanna Veng, Aizawl, Mizoram, reaffirming its commitment to corporate social responsibility and the welfare of disadvantaged communities.The TNT Centre is a major rehabilitation facility in Mizoram providing care and support to orphans, persons with disabilities and persons with substance use disorders. The Bank provided essential food supplies to meet the centre&#039;s daily kitchen requirements.The supplies were received by R Malsawmtluanga, General Secretary, TNT, in the presence of Shiba Pada Nayak, General Manager &amp; Zonal Head, Bank of Baroda, Northeastern States Zone, and Diwakar Jha, Deputy General Manager &amp; Regional Head, Bank of Baroda, Guwahati Region, along with TNT volunteers and Bank staff.Lal Singh, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda, who visited the centre, said, “Supporting the vulnerable and disadvantaged sections of society is an important aspect of our commitment to inclusive growth. Organisations such as TNT play a meaningful role in providing care, rehabilitation and support to those who need it most.”]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/bank-of-baroda-extends-support-to-tnt-centre-in-aizawl</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:42:10 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Dr T Ao Trophy: Tuensang, Zunheboto  record big wins; Mon edge Dimapur]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/dr-t-ao-trophy-tuensang-zunheboto-record-big-wins-mon-edge-dimapur</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): Tuensang District Football Association (FA) thrashed Meluri District FA 9-0, while Zunheboto District FA defeated Noklak District FA 7-0 and Mon District FA edged Dimapur District FA 1-0 in the 25th Dr T Ao Trophy Inter-District Football Championship, the Silver Jubilee edition, on Wednesday.In Match No. 2, Tuensang produced a dominant performance, with Bichumli opening the scoring in the second minute. Ayenmongba extended the lead in the seventh minute before completing a hat-trick with goals in the 32nd and 48th minutes.Relithong scored twice in the 31st and 60th minutes, while Bongcheli M, Besuchingmak and Yimtitopong added goals in the 51st, 64th and 70th minutes, respectively, to complete the 9-0 victory.Tuensang enjoyed 75 per cent possession and registered 17 shots, including 15 on target, compared to Meluri&#039;s three shots. Tuensang also won eight corners, while Meluri managed one.Tuensang&#039;s Namang Yimjong received a red card in the 16th minute. Bongcheli M was shown a yellow card in the 34th minute, followed by Jmti Kumzuk in the 53rd minute.&amp;nbsp;Zunheboto stuns NoklakIn Match No. 3, Zunheboto District FA registered a 7-0 win over Noklak District FA, with Atopu scoring a hat-trick.Atopu found the net in the 12th, 20th and 26th minutes to give Zunheboto an early advantage. Pulovi added the fourth goal in the 34th minute.Mangholen scored in the 52nd minute, followed by Tohika in the 61st and Ato in the 65th, as Zunheboto completed the emphatic victory.Zunheboto had 65 per cent possession and registered 13 shots, including 11 on target. Noklak recorded 15 shots, eight of which were on target, but failed to score.Mangholen received a yellow card in the 23rd minute, while Kanavi was booked in the 26th minute.&amp;nbsp;Mon edge past DimapurIn Match No. 4, Mon District FA secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Dimapur District FA, with Eshong Konyak scoring the decisive goal in the 56th minute.Both teams were unable to break the deadlock in the first half. Mon capitalised on its opportunity after the interval and held on to the lead until the final whistle despite Dimapur&#039;s attempts to equalise.Both sides shared 50 per cent possession. Mon recorded 14 shots, including 11 on target, while Dimapur registered 13 shots. The match statistics also listed 16 shots on target for Dimapur. Mon earned five corners against Dimapur&#039;s three.Dimapur&#039;s Temsemeren Imsong received a yellow card in the 37th minute.&amp;nbsp;Thursday&#039;s fixtures (October 15):•&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Match No. 5: Niuland vs Chümoukedima — 7.30 am•&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Match No. 6: Phek vs Peren — 10 am•&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Match No. 7: Shamator vs Longleng — 12.30 pm•&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Match No. 8: Kohima vs Tseminyu — 3 pm&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/dr-t-ao-trophy-tuensang-zunheboto-record-big-wins-mon-edge-dimapur</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:05:59 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Dr T Ao Trophy Silver Jubilee edition kicks off in Mokokchung]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/dr-t-ao-trophy-silver-jubilee-edition-kicks-off-in-mokokchung</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mokokchung, October 14 (MExN): The 25th Silver Jubilee edition of the Dr T Ao Inter-District Football Championship 2026 began at the Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung, on October 13, with state leaders calling for the promotion of grassroots football and the preservation of the legacy of the legendary footballer.Minister for Housing and Mechanical Engineering Bashangmongba Chang attended the inaugural ceremony as the special guest, while Nagaland Legislative Assembly Speaker Sharingain Longkumer was the guest of honour.The Silver Jubilee monolith of the championship was virtually unveiled by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio from Kohima, while Longkumer formally declared the tournament open at the venue.In his address, Chang described the Dr T Ao Trophy as a celebration of football&#039;s continuing journey, from the legacy of Dr Talimeren Ao to a new generation aspiring to achieve greater heights.He said the championship represented not only the spirit of football but also the values of unity, discipline, brotherhood and togetherness among the Nagas.Appreciating the state&#039;s young footballers, Chang referred to 12-year-old Wangshem Konyak from Mon district, who has received recognition, including the Young Achievers Award, Nagaland, 2026.He said sporting talent could emerge from even the most remote corners of the state if young players received proper training and guidance. He called for collective efforts to identify and nurture emerging talent at the grassroots level.Chang said Dr T Ao&#039;s contribution had instilled a sense of unity, brotherhood, discipline and healthy competition among the people. Acknowledging the continued support and guidance of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, particularly in sports, he encouraged young people to train consistently and urged players to compete with teamwork, dedication and discipline.Longkumer said the 25th edition was more than another chapter in the history of the tournament, describing it as a celebration of a journey spanning generations and shaped by passion, commitment, perseverance and sportsmanship.&amp;nbsp;He said the Silver Jubilee offered an opportunity to reflect on past achievements with gratitude while looking ahead with renewed hope, aspiration and determination.Recalling Dr T Ao&#039;s legacy, Longkumer said he was not only an exceptional footballer but also a leader who captained the Indian football team at the 1948 London Olympics, taking the country to the international stage.The Speaker said the trophy represented a legacy of humility, discipline and service, and urged players to compete in the spirit of friendship and discipline, respect their opponents and play with compassion.Advisor for Transport and Technical Education and convenor of the organising committee, Temjenmemba, delivered the welcome address and acknowledged the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) for nurturing emerging talent and promoting sports across the state. He also thanked the children and grandchildren of Dr T Ao for joining the Silver Jubilee celebrations.NFA president K Neibuo Sekhose described the occasion as a homecoming.Advisor for Sericulture and Minority Affairs and chief host of the event, Imkongmar, extended greetings and said the occasion celebrated the enduring legacy of Dr T Ao, whose life and achievements continued to inspire younger generations.Chief Minister Rio, in his virtual address, said the occasion marked not only the commemoration of a monument but also the beginning of another chapter in Nagaland&#039;s continuing football journey.Reflecting on the life of Dr T Ao, a pioneering figure in Indian football who captained the national team at the 1948 London Olympics, Rio said his life exemplified discipline, courage, humility, perseverance and dedication to the greater good.&amp;nbsp;He noted that Dr T Ao had excelled both in sports and in his professional life as a public servant, and urged young people to imbibe these values. Rio also appreciated the NFA and everyone associated with the game for their contribution to the championship&#039;s journey.The opening ceremony featured a special appearance by singer and songwriter Methanielie Jutakhrie.The opening match of the Silver Jubilee edition was played between Mokokchung and Wokha district teams.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/dr-t-ao-trophy-silver-jubilee-edition-kicks-off-in-mokokchung</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:02:55 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[India, Brunei Darussalam agree to expand bilateral trade]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/india-brunei-darussalam-agree-to-expand-bilateral-trade</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): India and Brunei Darussalam on Wednesday agreed to expand bilateral trade, including the exports of agricultural goods and pharmaceutical products from India. &amp;nbsp;The third meeting of the India–Brunei Darussalam Joint Trade Committee (JTC) was convened to review bilateral trade and economic cooperation and identify avenues for strengthening commercial ties between the two countries. The meeting was co-chaired by Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Amit Verma, and Brunei Darussalam&#039;s Permanent Secretary, Economy &amp; Trade, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, May Fa&#039;ezah Ahmad Ariffin.Representatives from relevant Ministries, Departments and organisations of both countries participated in the deliberations, according to a statement issued by the Commerce Ministry after the meeting.The discussions focused on expanding bilateral trade, addressing market access priorities and identifying institutional mechanisms to facilitate business-to-business exchanges. Both sides also deliberated on facilitating exports of agricultural and animal products from India to Brunei Darussalam, with a view to supporting food security and diversifying trade, the statement said.Pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and energy were identified as key areas for further cooperation. Both sides explored opportunities for regulatory collaboration, procurement and healthcare services, recognising the potential for greater engagement in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. Discussions on energy covered traditional and emerging energy partnerships to support sustained industrial growth.The two sides also emphasised the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties and commercial outreach through cooperation in tourism and participation in trade fairs and exhibitions. They noted that targeted trade promotion events and reciprocal business delegations could help identify investment opportunities in manufacturing, infrastructure and services.The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regular communication between relevant nodal agencies and working groups to monitor follow-up actions and advance the trade and investment objectives discussed during the meeting.The next meeting of the India–Brunei Darussalam Joint Trade Committee will be held in Brunei Darussalam, the statement added. &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/india-brunei-darussalam-agree-to-expand-bilateral-trade</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:55:12 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland’s Baby League wins SKOCH Silver Award]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagalands-baby-league-wins-skoch-silver-award</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The Youth Resources and Sports Department of the Nagaland government has received the SKOCH Silver Award for its Grassroots Football Festival (Baby League), in recognition of its efforts to promote grassroots sports development and encourage sporting participation among children in the state.The SKOCH Award is a nationally recognised honour that acknowledges excellence in governance, innovation and public service delivery. It recognises institutions and organisations for implementing initiatives that contribute to socio-economic development.The award marks a significant achievement for the department, bringing national recognition to its efforts to strengthen grassroots sports development in Nagaland, according to a statement issued by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR).Launched in June 2024, the Grassroots Football Festival (Baby League) is an annual initiative aimed at introducing children to football at an early age and fostering a sporting culture at the grassroots level.The programme provides a platform for children aged five to 12 years to participate in organised football activities in a fun, engaging and inclusive environment.Unlike conventional competitive tournaments, the Baby League emphasises participation, enjoyment, learning and the overall development of children.The festival features age-appropriate, small-sided football matches across four age categories — five to six years, seven to eight years, nine to 10 years, and 11 to 12 years.The initiative also provides opportunities for coaches to observe young players, identify emerging talent and encourage their continued involvement in sports.Since its inception, the programme has witnessed encouraging growth in participation and public response. From approximately 142 children in an earlier edition, participation increased to around 420 children in the third edition held in 2026.The growing involvement of children, parents and the sporting community reflects increasing interest in grassroots football and the positive response to the initiative, the department said.The initiative also received national recognition when Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Nagaland’s grassroots football efforts during his Mann Ki Baat address in June 2026, acknowledging the importance of encouraging sports participation among young children.The SKOCH Silver Award marks an important milestone for the department and is expected to encourage further efforts to make sports accessible to children across the state.The department said it remained committed to building on the success of the Baby League and expanding opportunities for children to participate in organised sporting activities, with the broader objective of promoting a strong and inclusive sporting culture in Nagaland.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagalands-baby-league-wins-skoch-silver-award</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:55:04 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[High-level demographic committee launches website seeking relevant inputs]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/high-level-demographic-committee-launches-website-seeking-relevant-inputs</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): The High-Level Committee on Demographic Changes (HLCDC) has launched a website to facilitate ministries and departments of Union, States, and Union Territory governments, various other bodies, and individuals to provide relevant inputs. &amp;nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the constitution of the committee on Independence Day last year, with the Union Cabinet giving approval to the proposal on September 11, 2025.Retired Justice of the Supreme Court Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar is the Chairperson of the body, with Mritunjay Kumar Narayan (retired IAS), Durga Shanker Mishra (retired IAS), Balaji Srivastava (retired IPS) and Shamika Ravi (member, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister) as its members. Prashant Sitaram Lokhande, IAS, is Member Secretary.HLCDC was constituted by the Ministry of Home Affairs to study demographic changes usually related to variations in fertility, cross-border movement, including illegal immigration, economic opportunities and other socio-environmental factors. The committee will identify the underlying factors behind these changes, analyse structural population changes at the level of religious or social communities, especially those diverging from uniform trends and recommend a well-organised and permanent operational system for the legal, fair, and time-bound identification, detention and deportation of illegal immigrants.The terms of reference also include recommending an appropriate institutional mechanism to strengthen border management, population stabilisation and identification systems for sustained monitoring of such trends. It will further propose a comprehensive policy framework to enhance coordination between Central and State governments in matters related to illegal immigration and resultant demographic imbalance, and also recommend any other measure it deems appropriate to address the challenges.The website (demography.mha.gov.in) seeks all concerned to share inputs by completing an online questionnaire and, where appropriate, upload supporting documents, research materials, photographs, and videos. All submissions received will be examined by the committee and may be considered, as appropriate, while formulating its recommendations.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/high-level-demographic-committee-launches-website-seeking-relevant-inputs</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:29:19 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Former Shin Bet chief sues Netanyahu over October 7 blame]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/former-shin-bet-chief-sues-netanyahu-over-october-7-blame</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Jerusalem, October 14 (IANS): Ronen Bar, former chief of Israel&#039;s Shin Bet domestic security agency, on Wednesday filed a 3 million shekel (around 975,000 US dollars) defamation lawsuit against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over allegations concerning responsibility for the failures to prevent the Hamas-led surprise attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023.In the lawsuit, Bar argued that Netanyahu made false accusations against him to evade responsibility for the October 7 events and place the blame exclusively on Bar, who served as Shin Bet chief between 2021 and 2025.Bar acknowledged the Shin Bet&#039;s share of responsibility for the attack, but accused Netanyahu of spreading a &quot;blood libel&quot; by claiming that Bar had advance knowledge of the October 7 attack but chose not to alert the relevant authorities and withheld the information.The lawsuit includes a timeline of warnings of an impending disaster that Bar claimed he presented to Netanyahu beginning in November 2022, which he alleged were ignored or met with inadequate responses, Xinhua news agency reported.He also pointed to what he described as Netanyahu&#039;s responsibility for a policy of containment toward Hamas, maintaining calm in Gaza and allowing the group to strengthen its military capabilities through funding.Bar added that the absence of steps toward establishing a state commission of inquiry to uncover the facts, alongside reports of alleged attempts to falsify protocols and incitement against security chiefs, contributed to his decision to file the lawsuit now.Shortly after the lawsuit was filed, Netanyahu issued a brief response, saying that Bar could have contacted him immediately on the night of October 7 through his secure phone line, and that lives could have been saved had Bar called in time.Netanyahu and Bar had been in a standoff since early 2025 against the backdrop of a blame game over the failure to prevent the October 7 attack.Netanyahu announced Bar&#039;s dismissal in March 2025, citing a loss of confidence in him, while Bar, in his response, reiterated his call for a state commission of inquiry to investigate &quot;all relevant parties,&quot; including government policies and Netanyahu himself.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/former-shin-bet-chief-sues-netanyahu-over-october-7-blame</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:28:03 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Indian contingent confident of good show in World U-19 Boxing Championships in Montenegro]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/indian-contingent-confident-of-good-show-in-world-u-19-boxing-championships-in-montenegro</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): An 18-member Indian boxing contingent left for Budva, Montenegro, on Wednesday determined to clinch medals in all weight categories they will be participating in the second edition of the World U-19 Boxing Championships 2026 and maintain their position as one of the top boxing nations in the world.India finished second behind England in the inaugural edition of the World Championships in Pueblo, Colorado, US, two years ago by clinching four gold, eight silver and five bronze medals for a total of 17 medals.The Indian contingent for the second edition consists of gold and silver medallists from the Asian U-19 Boxing Championships held in Jakarta earlier this year and the winners of the selection trials conducted in other weight categories.&quot;We have a very strong contingent going to Montenegro and almost every player in the squad has been performing exceptionally well throughout the year. I am confident that we can win a medal in most weight categories and hopefully improve our gold medal count from two years ago,&quot; said Boxing Federation of India President Ajay Singh while wishing all the luck to the contingent.India had won two gold, eight silver and four bronze medals in the Asian U-19 championships, and leading the charge in the women&#039;s category would be Asian U-19 gold medallist Prachi (57kg) along with silver medallists Joyshree Devi Chirom (54kg), Chahat (60kg), Anshika (75kg), Megha Sheokand (80kg) and Prachi Tokas (80+kg).The men&#039;s squad comprises Asian U-19 silver medallist Aditya (55kg) and Dhruv (90kg), along with the experienced Mausam Suhag.Indian squad:Women: Himanshi (48kg), Joyshree Devi Chirom (54kg), Prachi (57kg), Chahat (60kg), Harshika (65kg), Lakshu (70kg), Anshika (75kg), Megha Sheokand (80kg), Prachi Tokas (80+kg)Men: Aman Dev (50kg), Aditya (55kg), Shivam (60kg), Mausam Suhag (65kg), Prashant (70kg), Lokesh (80kg), Tridev (85kg), Dhruv (90kg), Krish (90+kg)&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/indian-contingent-confident-of-good-show-in-world-u-19-boxing-championships-in-montenegro</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:24:54 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NIPER Raebareli, AstraZeneca partner to expand clinical trials to 25 emerging hubs]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/niper-raebareli-astrazeneca-partner-to-expand-clinical-trials-to-25-emerging-hubs</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Raebareli and AstraZeneca India have collaborated to expand clinical trial capabilities beyond metros to strengthen India&#039;s clinical research capabilities and increase the country&#039;s participation in global clinical trials, according to an official statement released on Wednesday.According to the government, the partnership aims at building a trained workforce and inspection-ready sites in 25 emerging research geographies across India.The MoU was signed in the presence of Manoj Joshi, Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, here.This collaboration furthers the vision of Biopharma SHAKTI, the Government of India&#039;s flagship initiative to build a stronger biopharma ecosystem, including setting up 1,000 clinical trial sites across the country, the ministry said.The pact will begin with adopting 25 clinical trial sites, assessing their capabilities, providing targeted training and mentoring, and strengthening documentation and support processes related to ethics, safety and trial feasibility, it added.Moreover, the government will provide direction and endorsement, aligning the initiative with national clinical research priorities.Building on this government-led framework, AstraZeneca India will contribute clinical development expertise to design and deliver the programme, engage India and global faculty and support the participating sites through training, workshops, governance and site-readiness.In his address, Secretary Manoj Joshi said, &quot;Our country has the talent and expertise to play a larger role in global clinical trials. Strengthening clinical trials capabilities beyond major metropolitan centres will help expand the pool of skilled professionals and research-ready sites across the country. This collaboration brings together government, academia and industry to strengthen clinical research capabilities in a structured manner and directly advances key objectives of Biopharma SHAKTI.&quot;NIPER Raebareli Director Shubhini Saraf said, &quot;The Centre of Excellence will provide a dedicated platform for structured training and certification in clinical research.”By combining academic and industry expertise, NIPER Raebareli will help develop a skilled workforce and create a model that can be expanded to other geographies and therapeutic areas, Saraf said.Praveen Rao Akkinepally, Country President and Managing Director of AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited, said, &quot;Clinical research is central to bringing innovative medicines to patients. Our collaboration with NIPER Raebareli, with the government support, aims to strengthen India&#039;s clinical research capabilities, expand trial participation and build a sustainable, high-quality research ecosystem.&quot;The initiative is designed as a scalable national model, with the potential to expand to additional geographies and therapeutic areas beyond oncology following the proof-of-concept phase, according to the ministry.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Health
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/niper-raebareli-astrazeneca-partner-to-expand-clinical-trials-to-25-emerging-hubs</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:22:52 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[With just 5-6 per cent target achieved, Nagaland pushes rooftop solar adoption]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/with-just-5-6-per-cent-target-achieved-nagaland-pushes-rooftop-solar-adoption</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Morung Express News&amp;nbsp;Dimapur | October 14With only around 5–6% of its target of 10,000 households covered under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, Nagaland launched the Seva Setu Abhiyan across the state on Wednesday to promote rooftop solar installations and facilitate access to subsidies and other benefits.Executive Engineer (EE), Electrical Division, Dimapur, Lhuvoyi, said around 5–6% &amp;nbsp;or 500-600 households in Nagaland had been covered so far, compared to nearly 40% achievement against the national target of one crore households. He was speaking at the inauguration of a three-day camp in Dimapur on October 14.Being conducted from October 14 to 16 at designated locations across the state, the campaign aims to connect citizens with government welfare schemes through awareness, on-the-spot registration and assistance with applications, documentation, financing and installation.Launched in February 2024, the rooftop solar scheme provides financial assistance to eligible residential households to reduce electricity bills and promote clean energy. In Kohima, Chief Engineer, D&amp;R, Er Lobosang Jamir said eligible consumers could receive subsidies of up to Rs 85,800 from the Centre and Rs 50,000 from the state government, totalling Rs 1,35,800. He urged consumers to avail themselves of the scheme, which is available until March 2027, and visit the roadshow for registration and guidance.Dimapur: Deputy Commissioner Dr Tinojongshi Chang inaugurated the camp at the DC’s Office Complex, Purana Bazar, urging residents to avail themselves of the scheme. He said vendors and bank representatives were available for on-the-spot registration and highlighted the option of feeding surplus electricity into the grid.Kohima: At Secretariat Junction, Principal Secretary, Power, Dr KD Vizo encouraged citizens to adopt rooftop solar, citing subsidies, banking facilities and potential savings. He said solar energy could reduce the government’s power purchase expenditure while allowing consumers to benefit from excess generation.The camp also provides installation guidance and access to 26 empanelled vendors across Nagaland.Wokha: DC K Mhathung Tsanglao inaugurated the campaign at the DC’s Conference Hall. EE Chenosing Kemp highlighted subsidies, bank loans and the possibility of earning returns by supplying surplus electricity to the grid. He also explained the scheme through a presentation.Longleng: At an awareness programme at the DPDB Hall, EE CTN Temjensangba explained rooftop solar generation and government subsidies, while empanelled vendor Shilunaro Jamir outlined the application, approval and installation processes. SBI representative C Mhaden Yanthan explained the subsidy claim process and briefed participants on available loans.Mokokchung: SDO (Civil) Ajay Moktan inaugurated the campaign at the DC’s Office Complex. Beneficiary Asung Jamir said his monthly electricity bill had fallen from Rs 1,700 to Rs 230 after installing rooftop solar in July.EE Chutsusie Thowachu said vendors would assist with registration during the October 14–16 camp. He clarified that installations under the scheme were currently available for domestic use and not commercial purposes.SEVA SETU ABHIYAN IN NAGALANDWhat: Awareness and facilitation camp under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana to promote residential rooftop solar installations.Where: Across Nagaland&amp;nbsp;When: October 14–16Who can apply: Eligible residential householdsBenefits: Total subsidy upto Rs 1,35,800 (Rs 85,000 from GoI) and Rs 50000 from State GovernmentSubsidy deadline: March 31, 2027&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Nagaland’s progress: Approximately around 5-6% &amp;nbsp;or 500 households covered against a target of 10,000.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/with-just-5-6-per-cent-target-achieved-nagaland-pushes-rooftop-solar-adoption</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:16:37 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Kenye reminds Phek officers of Article 371(A) amid Forest Department issue]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/kenye-reminds-phek-officers-of-article-371a-amid-forest-department-issue</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Phek, October 14 (MExN): Amid the ongoing Forest Department issue in Pfutsero and Phek, Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs KG Kenye has urged district officers to remain mindful of Article 371(A) of the Constitution concerning Naga customary laws.Kenye, who is also Chairman of the District Planning and Development Board (DPDB), Phek, made the remarks during the board’s monthly meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference hall on October 13.According to a DIPR report, the House discussed a proposal from Porba Village Council concerning a February 6, 1983 agreement under which the village donated 411.99 acres of land for establishing the National Research Centre on Mithun (NRCM) at Porba.However, the centre was subsequently established at Medziphema under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The House resolved to write to the ICAR Director, Medziphema, requesting its relocation to Porba. The board also decided to approach the Urban Development Department for a survey and detailed estimate for an approach road connecting the Academy Building and Teachers’ Residential Complex at Phek Government College.Other matters included recommending the proposed renaming of Tezatse village to Tuzatse and registration of Dawn Library Welfare Society, Chozuba, to higher authorities. The proposal to upgrade the Government Middle School at Zhavema to a Government High School was also recommended, subject to a detailed report from the District Education Officer, Phek.On the proposed introduction of three-wheeler services, the House asked the District Transport Officer to pursue the matter with the Transport Department.The meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner and DPDB Vice Chairman Rhosietho Nguori, District Commandant, Home Guard, Civil Defence and SRDF, Phek, Muzhul and Junior Engineer, CAWD, Er. Vezovoyi Nienu, presented updates on their respective departments’ activities. MLA and Advisor Kudecho Kamo also attended the meeting and shared his views on various matters, the report added.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/kenye-reminds-phek-officers-of-article-371a-amid-forest-department-issue</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:12:36 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[New rural ASHAs trained in child,  maternal and community healthcare]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/new-rural-ashas-trained-in-child-maternal-and-community-healthcare</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): A five-day induction training programme for newly recruited rural Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) was conducted by the Chief Medical Officer’s (CMO) Office, Dimapur, from October 8 to 14 focusing on community healthcare, maternal and newborn care, disease prevention and health service delivery.According to a press release from the CMO’s Office, the programme began with an orientation on the National Health Mission (NHM) and the functioning of health facilities under it.The training adopted a practical, participatory approach, combining theoretical instruction with demonstrations and hands-on exercises to equip the trainees with essential skills for their roles as community health workers.ASHA trainees learning about Janani Suraksha Yojana incentives through information, education and communication materials during the induction training programme held the CMO’s Office, Dimapur from October 8 to 14. ((Photo Courtesy: &amp;nbsp;CMO Dimapur)&amp;nbsp;Key areas covered included the roles, responsibilities and values of ASHAs; community health and hygiene; health rights; violence against women; and support for vulnerable populations. Sessions also focused on maternal and newborn care, including antenatal care, pregnancy diagnosis, anaemia management, birth preparedness, postnatal care, home-based newborn care, breastfeeding and the identification of danger signs in mothers and infants.The trainees were also oriented on malnutrition assessment, growth monitoring, immunisation, diarrhoea and oral rehydration solution (ORS) management, acute respiratory infections, fever management, wound and burn care, and animal bites. Other topics included communicable and non-communicable diseases, adolescent health, menstrual hygiene, family planning, safe abortion, and the prevention of reproductive tract and sexually transmitted infections.ASHA trainees demonstrating oral rehydration solution (ORS) preparation as part of practical training on diarrhoea management during the induction training programme held the CMO’s Office, Dimapur from October 8 to 14. ((Photo Courtesy: &amp;nbsp;CMO Dimapur)&amp;nbsp;The programme further covered national health programmes and ASHA incentives, Village Health Committees, Mahila Arogya Samitis, malaria rapid diagnostic testing, government entitlements and the expanded package of services, including elderly care, palliative care, eye and oral healthcare, ear, nose and throat care, mental health, substance use and emergency services.The trainees also received orientation on the new Mother and Child Protection (MCP) card, ASHA records and reporting procedures. The programme concluded with a recap and post-training assessment, during which participants demonstrated the skills acquired.The training was facilitated by resource persons Imlilemla DCM, Tirang BAC, Orensali BAC and Toshikala CHO.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/new-rural-ashas-trained-in-child-maternal-and-community-healthcare</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:11:52 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Listen, Understand and  Act: Nagaland marks  World Mental Health Day]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/listen-understand-and-act-nagaland-marks-world-mental-health-day</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The District Mental Health Programmes (DMHP) in Mon and Dimapur observed World Mental Health Day 2026, emphasising the importance of listening to lived experiences, addressing stigma and strengthening community support for people experiencing mental health difficulties.Observed under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” the programmes highlighted the need for empathy, early intervention and accessible mental health services.In Mon, Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Mon, Dr Benchilo Ngullie, urged the community to prioritise mental health. A key highlight was an experience-sharing session by Phamsa, a student of Wangkhao Government College, who spoke about overcoming psychological distress and the importance of friendship, understanding and emotional support in recovery.Loungnyem Konyak, Psychiatric Social Worker, DMHP Mon, highlighted the importance of recognising early signs of mental distress, addressing stigma and seeking professional help. Clinical Psychologist Linokali Sumi stressed three principles — “Listen, Understand and Act” — while underscoring the need for compassionate care and recognition of healthcare workers’ mental health needs.In Dimapur, the programme held at District Hospital Dimapur on October 13 brought together healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and representatives of organisations, including Blessed Bonding, Operation Salvage, Little Angels Home, Prodigal’s Home and Gracious Life Foundation.A spoken-word poetry presentation, “The Architecture,” by Merasenna Jamir and fellow DMHP interns highlighted unseen emotional struggles and the importance of kindness and self-acceptance. Students of the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research also presented a role-play on mental health stigma and seeking help.Psychiatrist Dr. Yansaroni Ngullie highlighted how listening to personal experiences could foster social change, while Lisali Humtsoe, Founder and Director of Gracious Life Foundation, stressed the role of community support and psychosocial rehabilitation in recovery.Both observances called for collective efforts to create supportive, compassionate and stigma-free communities where people feel safe to share their experiences and seek help.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/listen-understand-and-act-nagaland-marks-world-mental-health-day</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 21:09:45 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Longleng and Mon road upgradation project launched]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/longleng-and-mon-road-upgradation-project-launched</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Longleng, October 14 (MExN): A launching programme for upgradation of inter district connectivity road from Yongphang village via Yangching to (BRO Road) Ukha Lampong was held on October 14, at Yeangmon (Pangsha Bridge), between Longleng and Mon.&amp;nbsp;The programme was attended by MLA, Naiba Konyak, MLA, A Nyemnyei Konyak and Advisor &amp; MLA, A Pongshi Phom, stated a DIPR report.&amp;nbsp;Advisor for Airways and Railways, A Pongshi Phom, emphasizing the traditional brotherhood between the Konyaks and Phoms, community leaders have called upon the people of both tribes to extend full cooperation to the ongoing road construction project in the region.Addressing the gathering, he said, “the Konyaks and Phoms are considered brothers, and therefore the construction of the road on either side should not cause inconvenience to anyone. The road is meant for all as a single unit, and it should be welcomed as a blessing for the people.”He appealed the public to cooperate with all workers and departments coming for the work, irrespective of who they are, and to work together for the success of the project.He further informed that many surveys will be conducted to determine the direction of the road alignment and to identify better water sources for the villages. “Road and communication,” he said, “is the key to all developmental works, and therefore this project should be given top priority.”The project will be implemented in a phased manner. Though it will take time, he assured that it will eventually be completed.MLA, Naiba Konyak and MLA, A Nyemnyei Konyak, also addressed during the programme. Short speeches were delivered by Chairman Yongphang Village Council, Yangching Village council, Ukha Lampong Village council, Ukha Village council, E.E. PWD Longleng Division and Presented Phom People’s Council.The programme commenced with an invocation pronounced by Pastor Yongphang Baptist Church. It was chaired by, JE PWD Longleng Division, Lakphak, and concluded with a benediction pronounced by Pastor Ukha Baptist Church.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/longleng-and-mon-road-upgradation-project-launched</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:12:43 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Noklak observes girl child day with call to end child marriage]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/noklak-observes-girl-child-day-with-call-to-end-child-marriage</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Morung Express NewsNoklak | October 14SANKALP – District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Social Welfare Department, Noklak, organised an event to mark International Girl Child Day 2026 under the theme “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.” The event was held at White Hall, Noklak, on October 14 and was attended by students and representatives from various organisations.Dr Meyachungla Jamir, Medical Officer at Integrated AYUSH Hospital, Noklak, highlighted the causes, consequences, and health risks of child marriage. The practice remains a concern in India despite progress in many parts, she stressed.Dr Jamir emphasised that child marriage is deeply rooted in gender inequality and has consequences for a child’s education, sexual and reproductive health, and psychological well-being.She underscored the challenges faced by girls in various parts of India, highlighting the health risks associated with early marriage, including increased vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexual and physical violence. She also pointed to the vulnerability of young people aged 15–24 to sexually transmitted infections, stressing the importance of awareness and education on sexual health.Referring to findings from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), she highlighted how early marriage can affect a young person’s ability to make decisions, develop self-understanding, and achieve emotional maturity.She further stressed that child marriage affects not only individuals but also society. Dr Jamir emphasised the importance of equal participation from both genders, stating that mutual understanding is essential for building healthy relationships and a progressive society.Speaking on the status of women in Nagaland, Dr Jamir observed that “although women enjoy greater freedom in certain areas, equality remains a challenge within a patriarchal society.”She said that education is a fundamental tool for empowerment, encouraging young people, particularly girls, to pursue education, develop their potential, and establish their identity in society.Dr Jamir strongly emphasised that education, awareness, and gender equality are essential to addressing child marriage and building a society in which every child can enjoy the freedom and opportunity to shape their own future.Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam (KMH), President K Chongkoi, shared insights into the traditional way of life during the time of their forefathers and spoke about the status of women in society.&amp;nbsp;She encouraged young girls to prioritise their well-being, maintain a healthy lifestyle and lead their lives with dignity and purpose.Supervision Child Helpline, Khumeng T, emphasized key areas of investment in the girl child: education, health and well-being, protection from violence, and legal and social protection. He urged community members, women’s organizations, and churches to work collectively with government agencies to identify school dropouts, children in need of care and protection, children in conflict with the law, and underprivileged girls, ensuring that no child is left behind.Khumeng highlighted the importance of confidentiality and informed the gathering about the National Child Helpline 1098 and support services available through the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Sakhi One Stop Centre, Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA), and District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW).District Programme Officer (DPO), ICDS, Noklak, Ajongla Temjen, briefed the significance of the day, stressing the need to openly discuss child marriage. She expressed concern over its prevalence in the area, describing the situation as saddening. She emphasized that child marriage is not merely a social issue but also a personal concern, with consequences for the health and future of the children involved.Earlier, the programme was chaired by H Hang Shio, Gender Specialist, DHEW; invocation was led by H Ngoun, Associate Pastor Women, BDTN; and vote of thanks was delivered by Shing B, Gender Specialist, DHEW.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/noklak-observes-girl-child-day-with-call-to-end-child-marriage</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:11:55 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[SJS Longleng students tour Yachem village, explore Phom Naga culture]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sjs-longleng-students-tour-yachem-village-explore-phom-naga-culture</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Longleng, October 14 (MExN): Students of Class VII from St Joseph’s School (SJS), Longleng, accompanied by their teachers, undertook an educational tour to Yachem village in collaboration with the Yachem Students Union (YSU) on October 10.The tour was organised to provide students with an opportunity to explore new things and learn about Phom Naga culture, traditions and historical sites. The students were guided by four officials from the YSU, stated a press release.During the visit, the students explored Yongtap and learned about its history, as well as that of Naüveyong, the male stone from Yongshei Village. According to local folklore, Yongtap (female stone) and Naüveyong were a couple who came from the deep oceans but eventually settled in different places.The students also explored local artifacts, ornaments, pottery and the rich cultural heritage of Yachem Village at the YSU Museum. They further visited the magnificent Yakang Pang (Chief Morung) and Langtu Park, where they participated in the final activities of the day.The students appreciated the cleanliness of the village, its peaceful surroundings and its scenic beauty. They also learned about Yachem Village’s reputation as one of the cleanest villages in Longleng District.One of the students, Owphen Aeihly of Class VII, said, “Yachem is not just a village, it is a place where the history, culture, tradition and changing life of the Phom people can be experienced.”]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sjs-longleng-students-tour-yachem-village-explore-phom-naga-culture</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:11:11 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/22970966_1791988871_thumb_78838835_1791988871_IMG-20261014-WA0012.jpg"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[SIR: Political parties cite poor network,  staff shortage as major hurdles in Meluri]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sir-political-parties-cite-poor-network-staff-shortage-as-major-hurdles-in-meluri</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Meluri, October 14 (MExN): Political parties in Meluri district have raised concerns regarding network connectivity issues and acute staff shortage in the district election office as major hurdles in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.The concerns were raised during a meeting between political party representatives and Electoral Observer Akumla Chuba, IAS, at the Office Chamber of the Deputy Commissioner, Meluri, on October 13.As per the DIPR report, the meeting, initiated by ADC Meluri Shelly Katiry NCS briefed the observer on the number of electors in the district and provided an overview of the electoral roll revision process.During the meeting, representatives of various political parties raised concerns and shared grievances regarding challenges faced in the implementation of the revision process. They highlighted network connectivity issues in certain areas of the 20 Meluri Assembly Constituency, which could hamper the smooth and timely completion of the assigned tasks.Riepetho, President of Naga People’s Front (NPF), Meluri highlighted the acute shortage of staff in the District Election office, stating that the limited manpower was affecting the timely execution of official assignments.&amp;nbsp;He also pointed out that the existing office equipment was inadequate to meet the office operational requirements, and stressed the need for proper equipment and essential office materials to facilitate efficient functioning.Addressing the meeting, Akumla Chuba emphasised the importance of cooperation from all political parties and their Booth Level Agents (BLAs) to ensure the successful and transparent conduct of the SIR.She stressed the need for careful verification of electoral rolls, particularly with regard to deletion of ineligible entries, inclusion of eligible voters and correction of discrepancies.The observer urged party representatives to convey to their BLAs the importance of ensuring that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) complete the verification process, including deletions, inclusions and corrections, within the stipulated timeframe for the SIR.The meeting provided a platform for the Electoral Observer and political party representatives to discuss issues concerning the SIR, and identify challenges requiring attention to ensure the smooth and effective revision of the electoral rolls in Meluri District, it stated.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sir-political-parties-cite-poor-network-staff-shortage-as-major-hurdles-in-meluri</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:10:39 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Seva Setu Abhiyan launched in Wokha to promote rooftop solar]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/seva-setu-abhiyan-launched-in-wokha-to-promote-rooftop-solar</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Morung Express NewsWokha | October 14The Seva Setu Abhiyan under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana was launched in Wokha district on October 14, with officials highlighting the potential of rooftop solar installations to reduce electricity costs and promote clean energy.The launch programme was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Wokha, with Deputy Commissioner K. Mhathung Tsanglao as the special guest. It was chaired by Er N Chichamo Humtsoe, Junior Engineer, Power Department, Wokha.Delivering the keynote address, Er Chenosing Kemp, Executive Engineer, Power Department, Wokha, highlighted the benefits of installing residential rooftop solar (RTS) systems under the scheme. He informed that consumers could install rooftop solar systems through authorised vendors and avail themselves of bank loan facilities.Kemp said limited awareness had prevented many consumers from adopting solar energy despite its potential to reduce electricity expenses and environmental impact. He explained that the scheme provides subsidies for the purchase and installation of rooftop solar systems. Consumers could also earn returns by feeding surplus electricity into the grid, with payments of approximately Rs 2 per unit credited directly to their bank accounts, he said.He further explained the scheme’s features and benefits through a PowerPoint presentation.Addressing the gathering, Tsanglao encouraged citizens to take advantage of the initiative and adopt more efficient energy practices. He observed that conventional electricity billing systems could contribute to inefficiencies and revenue losses in the power sector.Emphasising responsible electricity consumption, the Deputy Commissioner said the government procures electricity at a cost and urged consumers to be mindful of their usage and bills. Sharing his experience with smart-meter billing, he said the system encouraged consumers to pay according to actual consumption and avoid wastage.He added that wider adoption of rooftop solar systems could contribute to better energy management and more efficient electricity consumption.The programme was attended by colony union and council chairpersons from Wokha Town, Wokha Town councillors and representatives of Nexgen Solution, who also delivered a PowerPoint presentation.The programme culminated with Tsanglao formally declaring the launch of the Seva Setu Abhiyan under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana in Wokha district.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/seva-setu-abhiyan-launched-in-wokha-to-promote-rooftop-solar</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:08:42 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Mokokchung launches Seva Setu Abhiyan to promote rooftop solar scheme]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/mokokchung-launches-seva-setu-abhiyan-to-promote-rooftop-solar-scheme</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mokokchung, October 14 (MExN): The Seva Setu Abhiyan under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana was inaugurated by SDO (Civil), Mokokchung, Ajay Moktan at the DC’s Office Complex, Mokokchung, on October 14.Addressing the occasion, Moktan highlighted the benefits of residential rooftop solar (RTS) installations in generating electricity for household consumption and reducing power bills.&amp;nbsp;He said the scheme provides subsidies from the Central and State governments, under which 70–80% of the total installation cost could be reimbursed directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts.He informed that more than 26 RTS vendors were empanelled across the State, with installation rates varying according to the capacity of the systems installed.&amp;nbsp;Beneficiaries can choose vendors of their preference, who undertake the installation and provide free maintenance for up to five years. Citizens can also avail themselves of bank loans for installing rooftop solar systems, he said.Highlighting the State’s rising energy consumption, Moktan encouraged citizens to adopt solar energy and urged participants to spread awareness about the scheme. He further informed that the deadline for availing the subsidy was March 31, 2027.During the programme, beneficiaries shared their experiences of installing rooftop solar systems.&amp;nbsp;Asung Jamir, a resident of Mokokchung, said he installed the system in July, following which his monthly electricity bill dropped from Rs 1,700 to Rs 230. He added that the installation took only one and a half days and that he received the subsidy within two months.Another beneficiary shared that installing a rooftop solar system had significantly reduced household gas consumption and firewood use, enabling her to use an induction cooktop powered by solar energy, the State DIPR reported.&amp;nbsp;Executive Engineer, Electrical Division, Mokokchung, Er Chutsusie Thowachu, in his brief address, said energy demand had increased with population growth and the expanding use of machinery. He observed that conventional sources, including thermal and hydropower, faced growing challenges in meeting the rising demand, prompting the government to promote solar energy as an alternative.He clarified that rooftop solar installations under the scheme were currently available for domestic use and not for commercial purposes.&amp;nbsp;He informed that vendors, including M/s Smart Tech and Native Enterprises, would be available to assist with registration and other requirements at the DC’s Office Complex from October 14 to 16, between 10 am and 2 pm.Thowachu urged citizens to visit the camp and avail themselves of the scheme’s benefits.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/mokokchung-launches-seva-setu-abhiyan-to-promote-rooftop-solar-scheme</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:07:34 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/57970159_1791988654_thumb_25004991_1791988654_PMSG-Muft Bijli Yojana.jpg"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[Longleng holds awareness programme on rooftop solar scheme]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/longleng-holds-awareness-programme-on-rooftop-solar-scheme</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Longleng, October 14 (MExN): The Electrical Department, Longleng, organised an awareness programme on the Seva Setu Abhiyan under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana at the DPDB Hall, Longleng, on October 14.At the event, Executive Engineer Temjensangba CTN briefed the gathering on the rooftop solar scheme and highlighted the benefits of generating electricity for household consumption.He explained that surplus electricity generated during the day could be fed into the grid and drawn from the grid after sunset, when solar panels stop generating power. He also outlined the government subsidies available to eligible consumers, according to a DIPR report.Shilunaro Jamir of M/S Shan Enterprises, an empanelled rooftop solar (RTS) vendor, explained the application process for availing subsidies, including the approval and installation procedures. She also briefed the gathering on the timeline and stages involved in releasing the subsidy amount to beneficiaries.C Mhaden Yanthan, a representative of the State Bank of India (SBI), clarified that beneficiaries must claim the subsidy individually through the designated portal, as the bank does not process subsidy claims on their behalf.He further informed that loans of up to Rs 2 lakh were available for rooftop solar installations of up to 3 kW capacity. Applicants must be between 18 and 65 years of age, with a maximum loan tenure of 10 years, he said.The programme was chaired by SDO (Electrical) Er Moichung Shambu Phom.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/longleng-holds-awareness-programme-on-rooftop-solar-scheme</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:06:31 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/48552839_1791988591_thumb_59468029_1791988591_Seva Setu Abhiyan PM SURYA GHAR.jpg"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[Seva Setu Abhiyan facilitates rooftop solar registration in Kohima]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/seva-setu-abhiyan-facilitates-rooftop-solar-registration-in-kohima</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kohima, October 14 (MExN): A three-day Seva Setu Abhiyan under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is being conducted at Secretariat Junction, Kohima, from October 14 to 16 to promote rooftop solar installations and facilitate access to the scheme’s benefits.Organised by the Department of Power, the camp aims to create awareness and assist eligible residential households with registration, application procedures and installation guidance. It also facilitates on-the-spot registration and provides information on government subsidies, bank loans and installation requirements. Consumers can choose from 26 empanelled vendors across the State for rooftop solar installations.Principal Secretary, Power, Dr. KD Vizo urged citizens to avail themselves of the benefits of solar energy, highlighting the subsidies offered by the Central and State governments, banking facilities and potential savings on electricity bills.He said solar energy could help the government reduce expenditure on power purchases while enabling consumers to benefit from surplus power generation. He also highlighted the availability of on-grid, off-grid and hybrid solar systems and stressed the need for greater public awareness to encourage wider adoption.Vizo encouraged citizens to make use of the facilities and resources provided by the Government of India to promote solar energy.Chief Engineer, D&amp;R, Department of Power, Er Lobosang Jamir, said the initiative seeks to raise awareness and reduce dependence on grid electricity by promoting rooftop solar adoption.He informed that eligible consumers could avail themselves of subsidies of up to Rs 85,800 from the Central government and Rs 50,000 from the State government, amounting to a combined subsidy of up to Rs 1,35,800. He urged consumers to take advantage of the scheme, which is available until March 2027, and visit the camp for on-the-spot registration and guidance.The initiative aims to encourage clean energy adoption, reduce household electricity expenses and make rooftop solar installations more accessible to eligible residents, the State DIPR reported.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/seva-setu-abhiyan-facilitates-rooftop-solar-registration-in-kohima</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:05:33 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Seva Setu camp promotes rooftop solar scheme in Dimapur]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/seva-setu-camp-promotes-rooftop-solar-scheme-in-dimapur</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): A three-day Seva Setu Camp for awareness and facilitation under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG: MBY) was inaugurated at the DC’s Office Complex, Purana Bazar, Dimapur, on October 14. The camp will continue until October 16.According to a DIPR report, Executive Engineer, Electrical Division, Dimapur, Er Lhuvoyi, in his introductory speech, said the scheme aims to bridge the gap between government welfare programmes and citizens by creating awareness and facilitating access to available benefits.He highlighted the scheme’s potential to reduce household electricity expenses through rooftop solar installations. While the national target is to cover one crore households, nearly 40% of the target had been achieved, whereas Nagaland had covered only around 5–6% or 500-600 of its target of 10,000 households so far, he said.Lhuvoyi explained that government subsidies could significantly reduce the initial installation cost, allowing households to recover their investment through electricity savings over time. He urged participants to spread awareness about the scheme and encouraged households to install rooftop solar systems to move towards energy self-reliance.The camp was formally inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, NCS, who urged the public to avail themselves of the scheme’s benefits.Chang said the initiative provides an opportunity for households to generate clean energy with financial assistance through subsidies from the Central and State governments. He expressed gratitude to both governments for introducing the scheme and acknowledged the support of banks and financial institutions in extending loans to beneficiaries.He informed that vendors and bank representatives would be available at the camp to assist people with on-the-spot registration. He also urged the public not to delay availing themselves of the benefits, stating that the subsidy benefits were available only until March.Chang further noted that surplus electricity generated through rooftop solar systems could be fed back into the grid, contributing to the power supply and benefiting the wider community. He appealed to public representatives to disseminate information about the scheme and help ensure wider participation in Dimapur.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/seva-setu-camp-promotes-rooftop-solar-scheme-in-dimapur</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:04:19 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/29058841_1791988458_thumb_22627709_1791988458_Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, interacting with vendors.jpg"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[DMHP Mon observes World Mental Health Day]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/dmhp-mon-observes-world-mental-health-day</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mon, October 14 (MExN): The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), Mon, observed World Mental Health Day 2026 on October 10 under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” emphasising mental health awareness, empathy and collective responsibility in building a healthier community.According to a press release NHM Mon, the programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Benchilo Ngullie, Medical Superintendent, District Hospital, Mon, who urged the community to prioritise mental health under the slogan “Together for a Better Community.”A key highlight was an experience-sharing session by Phamsa, a student of Wangkhao Government College, who shared her journey of overcoming psychological distress and underscored the importance of friendship, understanding and emotional support in recovery.Loungnyem Konyak, Psychiatric Social Worker, DMHP-Mon, spoke on recognising early signs of mental distress, addressing stigma and seeking professional help. He also highlighted the programme’s community outreach initiatives and the availability of counselling and referral services.Delivering the theme address, Linokali Sumi, Clinical Psychologist, DMHP-Mon, emphasised three essential principles: “Listen, Understand and Act.” She highlighted the importance of respecting lived experiences, providing compassionate care and recognising the mental health needs of healthcare workers.The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. A.P. Lemwang, Nodal Officer, DMHP-Mon, who stressed that mental health deserves the same attention as physical health and called for collective efforts to build a supportive and stigma-free society.The observance reaffirmed DMHP-Mon’s commitment to promoting mental health awareness, encouraging early intervention and strengthening community support.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/dmhp-mon-observes-world-mental-health-day</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:02:58 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[World Mental Health Day observed at District Hospital Dimapur]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/world-mental-health-day-observed-at-district-hospital-dimapur</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 14 (MExN): The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), Dimapur, observed World Mental Health Day on October 13 at the District Hospital Dimapur (DHD) Conference Hall under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” highlighting the importance of listening to individuals with mental health difficulties and strengthening community support.The programme brought together representatives of NGOs and organisations, including Blessed Bonding, Operation Salvage, Little Angels Home, Prodigal’s Home, Children with Special Needs and Gracious Life Foundation. Patients, clients, caregivers, family members, and doctors and nurses of District Hospital Dimapur also attended the event.The programme was chaired by Ketousenuo Phewhuo, Clinical Psychologist, DMHP Dimapur, who highlighted the importance of providing a safe platform for individuals experiencing mental health difficulties and their caregivers to share their experiences and contribute towards building a compassionate and supportive society.The programme began with an invocation prayer, followed by a spoken-word poetry presentation titled “The Architecture” by Merasenna Jamir and fellow DMHP interns. The poem highlighted the unseen emotional struggles people carry and underscored the importance of kindness and self-acceptance.Dr. George Thirah, Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Dimapur, delivered a special address, emphasising that mental health is an essential component of overall well-being.Students from the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) presented a role-play demonstrating the stigma associated with mental illness and highlighting ways to seek help.Addressing the theme, Dr. Yansaroni Ngullie, Psychiatrist, District Hospital Dimapur, spoke on the importance of listening to personal experiences to foster meaningful social change. She also highlighted the significance of observing World Mental Health Day.A key highlight was the “Real Voices” session, which featured personal reflections and testimonies. The participants’ willingness to share their journeys left a lasting impression on the gathering, highlighting the importance of empathy, understanding and support in mental health recovery.Speaking on “Psychosocial Rehabilitation: Lived Experiences,” Lisali Humtsoe, Founder and Director of Gracious Life Foundation, emphasised the vital role of community support and rehabilitation in recovery.The programme underscored the importance of addressing stigma, encouraging people to seek help and building a supportive environment for individuals experiencing mental health difficulties.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/world-mental-health-day-observed-at-district-hospital-dimapur</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:01:42 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/72645327_1791988302_thumb_96220989_1791988302_IMG-20261014-WA0003.jpg"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[The Hearth vs. The Screen]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/the-hearth-vs-the-screen</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The quiet takeover of Naga ImaginationIn Naga villages, stories were once told around the hearth. Elders spoke, children listened and questions were asked and answered. The teller was known to everyone and the story carried the weight of a name, a clan and a lifetime of trust. Today, much of that storytelling has moved to the screen.A chapter from William F Fore’s book Mythmakers: Gospel, Culture and the Media offers a useful lens for this change. It is argued that the mass media did not simply arrive and take over a society. Something in the culture itself was found to need them. In the author’s view, the driving force was industrial capitalism, with its values of efficiency, standardization and profit.The lessons of this argument are not distant from Nagaland. Television, mobile phones and social media are now present in nearly every home, from the commercial hub to the remotest village. The question is seldom asked whether these tools are being used, or whether they are quietly doing the shaping.One concern raised in the book is the separation of the message from the messenger. Before the telegraph, news came from neighbours who could say, “I was there, and it was not like that.” Now, information arrives from unknown sources, stripped of context. Forwarded messages travel through village WhatsApp groups with no author and no way of being questioned. Rumours spread faster than facts, and trust is placed in what is seen on a screen rather than in what is known about a person.Another concern is the way constant consumption is encouraged. Advertising, it is argued, teaches that identity is found in ownership, that the old must be discarded, and that newer is always better. Among Naga youth, the pressure to follow fashion, gadgets and lifestyles seen on screen is already visible. Dress, music and even aspirations are increasingly borrowed from distant markets, while traditional songs, shawl patterns and oral histories are left unlearned.Fore also points to the power of stories that are not taken seriously. Disneyland is described as a place that appears to offer only fun, yet teaches lessons about progress, good and evil, and conquest. The most influential messages, it is observed, are often those that are enjoyed rather than examined. The same can be said of films, reels and serials consumed daily without reflection.None of this means that modern media should be rejected. Education, livelihoods, church life and the voice of Naga communities have all been strengthened by technology. Local online news portals and digital archives are helping to preserve languages and record history.What is needed is awareness. Families can be encouraged to ask who is speaking, who benefits and what is being sold. Churches and schools can be places where media is discussed, not merely consumed. Parents and elders can be reminded that the hearth is still available, and that a story told face to face carries a trust no screen can supply.A people that tells its own stories is not easily reshaped by the stories of others. If Naga culture is to be kept alive, the storytelling must be kept alive with it.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Editorial
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/the-hearth-vs-the-screen</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 20:00:30 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Cheating and Trusting..!]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/cheating-and-trusting</link>
                <description><![CDATA[“Who put these two reports together?” I asked, staring at the front page of yesterday’s national daily.“A sub editor,” said my neighbour.“Give him an award!”“For journalism?”“For making two news reports cross examine each other!”There they were, sharing a box. Nandan Nilekani suggesting that examination questions be generated shortly before the examination to prevent paper leaks. Beside him, the Prime Minister speaking about India as a trusted ally.I nearly spilt my tea.One report discussed how to stop people cheating. The other asked people to trust us.What a marriage! Somewhere in that newspaper office, a subeditor had introduced the bride to the groom without checking whether they were already fighting.“Perhaps he was saving space,” said my neighbour.“He certainly saved me the trouble of turning to the cartoons!”Imagine the conversation inside that little box.“Trust us!” announces one report.“Please generate the questions at the last minute,” replies the other. “We cannot trust what happens beforehand!”“India is dependable!”“Excellent. Now hide the examination paper until the candidates are seated!”Of course, Nilekani’s suggestion deserves consideration. If technology can close an avenue for cheating, use it. Students who have spent months studying deserve something better than discovering that somebody else spent ten minutes buying their future.But what a commentary on our condition that we must shorten the life of a question paper because honesty cannot apparently survive its overnight stay.“Where will you keep the paper?” asks the examiner.“In a strongroom.”“And the key?”“With a trustworthy official.”“And the official?”There is an uncomfortable silence.Perhaps we need another strongroom.Trust, dear reader, is a peculiar commodity. Governments can print advertisements proclaiming it, leaders can announce it from magnificent stages, and enthusiastic supporters can forward it before breakfast. Yet it stubbornly refuses to materialise merely because someone has ordered a larger microphone.An actor can look heartbroken without losing anything. He can look honest while playing a crook. A convincing face is part of his profession.Unfortunately, citizens sometimes confuse a convincing performance with a trustworthy administration.“Look at his expression!” says my neighbour.“I would rather look at the results.”“Listen to his confidence!”“I would rather listen to the student whose examination has been cancelled.”There is nothing contradictory about wanting India to be trusted abroad while repairing its institutions at home. But the repairs must be real. Accountability must follow failure. Promises must survive beyond the speech.Otherwise, “Trust us” becomes the political equivalent of the shopkeeper saying, “Original product, sir!” while carefully concealing the label.Perhaps that subeditor made an innocent arrangement. Perhaps he simply had two reports and one available box.Either way, he placed a useful examination before the government.Can you earn at home the trust you advertise abroad?No leaked answer will help with this one. No smiling photograph will earn extra marks.And please, gentlemen, do not ask the subeditor to rearrange the reports.Rearrange the conduct that made them look so funny together..!The Author conducts an online, eight session Writers and Speakers Course. If you’d like to join, do send a thumbs-up to WhatsApp number 9892572883 or send a message to bobsbanter@gmail.com]]></description>
                <category>
                        Infocus , Bob’s Banter
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/cheating-and-trusting</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:58:06 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[SC to hear Asaram’s appeal against life sentence in minor rape case on Nov 17]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sc-to-hear-asarams-appeal-against-life-sentence-in-minor-rape-case-on-nov-17</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): The Supreme Court on Wednesday listed for November 17 the appeal filed by self-styled godman Asaram Bapu challenging the Rajasthan High Court judgment upholding his conviction and life sentence in the 2013 minor rape case. &amp;nbsp;A Bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K. Vinod Chandran directed the apex court registry to summon the trial court records, in both physical and digital form, and furnish one set each to the petitioner, the state government and the victim.The matter was posted for further hearing at 2 p.m. on November 17 after the apex court was informed that Asaram was currently out on 20-day parole granted by the Rajasthan High Court, with the period due to end on October 27.The Justice Pardiwala-led Bench said it would hear the appeal further once Asaram surrendered after the expiry of his parole. During the hearing, the Supreme Court indicated that it would examine the legal question raised in the appeal, observing that the appellant side would have to establish that the alleged lapse was sufficient to vitiate the entire conviction.The apex court had earlier declined to grant interim bail to Asaram on medical grounds, while permitting him to avail round-the-clock services of a trained caregiver of his choice in view of a medical assessment submitted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).Asaram has challenged the May 27 judgment of the Rajasthan High Court&#039;s Jodhpur Bench, which upheld his conviction and life sentence awarded by a Special POCSO Court in the 2013 case involving the sexual assault of a minor student at his Chhindwara Gurukul.The Special POCSO Court in Jodhpur had convicted Asaram on April 25, 2018, and sentenced him to imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life. Following the High Court verdict, he surrendered before the Jodhpur Central Jail on May 28 after undergoing a medical examination.Separately, the Rajasthan High Court on October 6 directed the state government to implement its August 3 order granting Asaram 20-day parole and submit a compliance report. Asaram is also serving a life sentence in a separate sexual assault case involving a woman disciple at his Gandhinagar ashram in Gujarat.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sc-to-hear-asarams-appeal-against-life-sentence-in-minor-rape-case-on-nov-17</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:29:25 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/70791059_1791986365_thumb_78752033_1791986365_e386d765a56c162660a0ff42d23578ca.jpg"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[Opp bloc highlights familiar faces among civil society outreach, but CJP still missing]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/opp-bloc-highlights-familiar-faces-among-civil-society-outreach-but-cjp-still-missing</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): In a show of unity in its campaign against alleged electoral irregularities, the Congress-led INDIA bloc brought together senior Opposition leaders and prominent civil society figures at a strategy meeting hosted by Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, but not those of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). &amp;nbsp;Among the figures present on the occasion on Tuesday stood veteran public-interest lawyer Prashant Bhushan and political activist and commentator Yogendra Yadav, both projected as being associated with anti-corruption and democratic rights campaigns.Known for being a political platform opposed to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), their presence in the bloc’s &quot;tea party&quot; drew attention, but more for who was not there.The CJP had no visible representation despite gaining prominence since its aggressive campaign against then Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.Founded by Abhijeet Dipke and initially perceived as a satirical outfit, the organisation has now taken up cudgels against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The CJP has received public backing from many of those present in Tuesday’s meeting, who see it aligned with their campaign; yet it is said to have insisted on remaining independent and not merging into any political formation, including the INDIA bloc.The only youth representation was perhaps Neha Bora, President of the All India Students Association (AISA), the student wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation, whose General Secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya stood quietly.Bora is not a formal member or official leader of the CJP, but has been a prominent face in its protests and campaigns since emerging as a forceful face in a movement that is being seen as a path for probable Left resurrection.Meanwhile, the Congress has, at times, viewed the CJP with suspicion rather than as a partner, occasionally campaigning on similar issues and opposing the same government policies, but through separate structures, as pointed out in reports.These have also been discussing how Congress leaders questioned the CJP’s origins, timing, funding transparency and rapid growth. Some are also said to be wary that the CJP could function as a vote-splitting force that might ultimately benefit the BJP.Thus, there are several wheels churning within protesting groups, with several INDIA constituents having reportedly sought coordination, even if without a direct alliance.While the Opposition bloc clearly intends to ride the wave with an eye on upcoming elections, Bhushan and Yadav’s association may stem from their political stand.Once among noticeable faces around activist Anna Hazare and later leading members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) during its formative years, both have since been Arvind Kejriwal baiters.Following the split, Yadav helped launch Swaraj Abhiyan and later Swaraj India, projects intended to provide an alternative model of participatory politics. Yet these initiatives struggled to achieve sustained electoral traction, and Yadav increasingly returned to issue-based activism rather than conventional party building. His foray into farm politics was also short-lived, having reportedly organised peasants, notably under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) umbrella that largely spearheaded the 2020-2021 anti-agricultural laws movement.What distinguishes him from many contemporary activists is not only the span of involvement across movements, but also the number of organisational ruptures that have marked his public life.Various farmer groups and political activists have, at different moments, differed with him over tactics, leadership structures and the extent to which social movements should engage electoral platforms.That complex history may also explain why both Yadav and Bhushan remain attractive interlocutors for the INDIA bloc. Neither is currently associated with, or shows leanings for, any major political party, thus allowing the Opposition to project a &quot;broader coalition&quot;.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/opp-bloc-highlights-familiar-faces-among-civil-society-outreach-but-cjp-still-missing</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:27:08 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Abhijeet Dipke calls for 'Tiranga' protest at Connaught Place on Oct 16]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/abhijeet-dipke-calls-for-tiranga-protest-at-connaught-place-on-oct-16</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on Wednesday urged &quot;patriots&quot; to gather at the Central Park in New Delhi&#039;s Connaught Place, to wave the Tricolour in protest against the arrest of his party&#039;s co-conveners Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka.In a video message posted on social media platform X, Dipke termed the agitation as &quot;Lehra do Tiranga&quot;.&quot;As you already know, Saurav and Ashutosh have been put in jail just for waving the Tricolour. So I request all the patriots, all those who love the Tricolour, to gather at Central Park in Connaught Place, at 5 p.m. on October 16, along with the Tricolour,&quot; he said.&quot;We will wave the Tricolour there and show that waving a &#039;Tiranga&#039; is not a crime,&quot; he added.Dipke asked those who are unable to reach the national capital, to undertake a &#039;Tiranga march&#039; in their respective localities, in order to &quot;show the authoritarians that our Tricolour is our pride and waving it is not a crime&quot;.&quot;It is possible that I might be arrested after this but I am not stressed about that. My &#039;Tiranga&#039; is my pride and I will wave it at any cost,&quot; the CJP Chief asserted.Earlier on Wednesday, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were sent to five-day judicial custody in the Jantar Mantar trespassing case, while another CJP leader Ajinkya Shinde was released on personal bond.Das and Ranka have been placed in separate cells within Tihar Jail, people familiar with the matter said.&quot;Saurav Das has been placed in Jail No. 2. Ashutosh Ranka has been placed in Jail No. 4,&quot; the sources said.Advocate Abhisht Hela, representing CJP leaders Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka and Ajinkya Shinde, speaking to IANS, said, &quot;They have been sent to judicial custody for five days.&quot;The three CJP members were put in preventive arrest for trespassing at Jantar Mantar, which has been de-notified as the designated protest site. They were booked for trespassing, bond violation and obstruction of public officials&#039; duty. They were produced before a Magistrate at Mandir Marg in New Delhi on Wednesday morning.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/abhijeet-dipke-calls-for-tiranga-protest-at-connaught-place-on-oct-16</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:18:17 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Mining plays vital role, govt mobilised Rs 181 crore: Meghalaya CM]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/mining-plays-vital-role-govt-mobilised-rs-181-crore-meghalaya-cm</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Shillong, October 14 (IANS): Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday called for a transition towards scientific and sustainable mining, emphasising that mineral wealth must translate into long-term economic opportunities and improved living standards for communities, as the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) completed a decade of operation.While attending a function here, CM Sangma said mining continued to play a significant role in Meghalaya&#039;s economy, generating revenue and providing livelihoods to thousands of people.&amp;nbsp;He stressed that the state&#039;s mining practices must evolve towards safer and more sustainable methods while taking into account local conditions and the traditional system of community land ownership.Highlighting the DMF&#039;s performance over the past 10 years, the Chief Minister said the foundation had mobilised Rs 181 crore in the state and sanctioned 923 projects, of which 542 had been completed.The completed initiatives cover a range of essential services and community infrastructure, including classrooms, healthcare facilities, drinking water supply networks and footbridges designed to withstand monsoon conditions.Projects have also focused on environmental restoration through water conservation structures and tree plantation in quarry areas.Sangma said the focus should now extend beyond infrastructure creation to developing assets that generate sustainable incomes and strengthen local economies.Citing examples of initiatives supported through DMF funding, he referred to an eco-tourism park and a value-added bee products unit at Nengmandalgre, silkworm rearing activities and a weaving centre in Ri Bhoi district, and a district emporium promoting locally produced goods.He said investments in tourism, food processing and local enterprises could help Meghalaya build a regenerative economy in which the benefits of mineral resources continue to support communities over the long term.The Chief Minister also urged district administrations to ensure that available DMF funds were utilised effectively and that projects under implementation were completed without unnecessary delays.He called for closer coordination between district authorities and local communities to maximise the impact of development initiatives funded through the foundation.The DMF was established to support people and areas affected by mining-related activities, with funds directed towards local development and essential services.Sangma underscored the need to balance the economic importance of mining with environmental protection, community welfare and livelihood diversification, as Meghalaya seeks to strengthen the long-term benefits of its mineral resources.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/mining-plays-vital-role-govt-mobilised-rs-181-crore-meghalaya-cm</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 19:17:28 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Paul McCartney shares his concern about Paul Mescal playing him in Beatles films]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/paul-mccartney-shares-his-concern-about-paul-mescal-playing-him-in-beatles-films</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Los Angeles, October 14 (IANS): The Beatles legend, Sir Paul McCartney has an objection to Paul Mescal playing him in Sir Sam Mendes&#039; Beatles movies.He shared that he was frustrated by Sam Taylor-Johnson&#039;s 2009 biopic ‘Nowhere Boy’, which followed his late bandmate John Lennon&#039;s early years, because he felt the height difference between Thomas Brodie-Sangster and Aaron Taylor-Johnson made him look &quot;wimpy&quot;.The Beatles legend has shared that he was keen for the dynamic not to be echoed in the upcoming four-film cinematic event.He recently graced Amy Poehler’s ‘Good Hang’ podcast, and said, “We were all the same height, and Ringo was a bit smaller. And if you look at photos, we’re all the same height. (In Nowhere Boy), the John character, who she later married, Aaron, he’s bigger than me in the film”.He further mentioned, “My character is kind of wimpy. Smaller than John. John knocks me to the floor. And it’s like, ‘Sam, this is not true’. Her only explanation, bless her, ‘cause she’s still a good friend, she said, ‘This is a movie, it’s not a documentary’. And I thought, ‘Mm. Well, I don’t like that explanation’. But I couldn’t do anything, ‘cause by now she’d made the film. There was I, little Paul. John, the great big hero, and it’s like, No! It’s not true”.He then said he had reservations when he heard Mescal had been cast alongside Harris Dickinson as Lennon in Mendes&#039; upcoming project, and he messaged the director to voice his concerns.Talking about the actor, he said, “Guess what? He’s smaller than the guy who plays John. Sam Mendes is making the film. I said, ‘Sam, I’ve got just one thing that I need to say to you. You know, Paul (Mescal is) a bit smaller’, I don’t know how Sam’s gonna deal with it. He sent me a picture, a still from the filming they were doing, and they’re crossing the Abbey Road crossing, and the Paul character is markedly smaller. I texted him, ‘Sam! Smaller? Don’t do this! You said you wouldn’t do it’”.However, the filmmaker was quick to try and appease the 84-year-old music legend, as the musician said, “He said, ‘No, it’s okay, it’s just the stride pattern’”.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/paul-mccartney-shares-his-concern-about-paul-mescal-playing-him-in-beatles-films</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 18:43:54 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Assam, Arunachal agree to fast-track border demarcation in 33 disputed villages]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/assam-arunachal-agree-to-fast-track-border-demarcation-in-33-disputed-villages</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Guwahati, October 14 (IANS): Assam and Arunachal Pradesh have agreed to expedite boundary demarcation and prepare a roadmap for resolving long-pending disputes in villages along their inter-state border, following the second meeting of the regional committee dealing with areas under Papum Pare district and Assam&#039;s Biswanath and Lakhimpur districts, officials said on Wednesday. &amp;nbsp;The meeting was attended by Arunachal Pradesh Urban Affairs Minister, Balo Raja, and Assam Revenue Minister, Keshab Mahanta, who led their respective delegations.Doimukh MLA Nabam Vivek, Arunachal&#039;s Papum Pare Deputy Commissioner Mamu Hage, Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu and MP Ranjit Dutta were also present.During the meeting, district officials reviewed progress since the previous meeting held on January 9, 2023, including joint field inspections undertaken to identify disputed areas and facilitate a mutually acceptable settlement.Officials said the disputed villages had been classified into three categories to streamline the resolution process.Nine villages fall under Category-I, while 22 villages with relatively minor localised disputes under Category-II, and two villages with complex disagreements under Category-III.The committees agreed to instal boundary pillars immediately in the nine Category-I villages.Disputes concerning Category-II villages will be addressed by the respective district administrations. Both states also decided to engage the Survey of India to initiate formal boundary demarcation within two months.They agreed to maintain the status quo according to mutually accepted cut-off dates, prevent fresh encroachments and tree felling in disputed areas, and initiate procedures to withdraw FIRs registered against officials of either state.For the two Category-III villages where consensus remains elusive, the committee will prepare a roadmap after consultations with local legislators, district officials and residents.The next regional committee meeting is scheduled for late December.The Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary dispute dates back to 1951, when areas covering more than 3,600 square kilometres were transferred from the North-East Frontier Agency to Assam following recommendations of the Gopinath Bordoloi committee.Arunachal Pradesh subsequently challenged the arrangement. The latest initiative follows the Namsai Declaration signed by the two states&#039; chief ministers on July 15, 2022.The agreement reduced the number of disputed villages from 123 to 86 and established 12 regional committees to pursue a negotiated settlement.]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/assam-arunachal-agree-to-fast-track-border-demarcation-in-33-disputed-villages</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 18:35:10 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Are we living in an undeclared emergency?]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/are-we-living-in-an-undeclared-emergency</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The CEC, the Voter List Controversy and a Government That Seems Afraid of QuestionsMoajungshi MenonI always believed India was the world’s largest democracy where citizens could question those in power without fear of being arrested. The events unfolding in Delhi have forced me to question that belief. When students, lawyers, political leaders and ordinary citizens face detention for demanding accountability from the Chief Election Commissioner, we must ask whether the democratic freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution are being protected or gradually pushed aside.Delhi has witnessed mass detentions, heavy security deployment, restrictions on public movement and disruptions to transport and internet services during protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The demonstrations concern allegations of irregularities in the revision of electoral rolls. The government and the Election Commission must answer these allegations, not allow the confrontation to overshadow them.Are we witnessing an undeclared Emergency? Have we reached a point where questioning those in power is treated as an offence? India has not formally declared an Emergency but that does not mean we should ignore actions that threaten the spirit of democracy.Why Is the Government Protecting the CEC?This is the central question. If the government has had no role in any wrongdoing why not allow peaceful protests and support an impartial investigation into the allegations surrounding the voter lists? If the electoral process has been conducted properly, a credible investigation should establish that. If irregularities have occurred those responsible must be held accountable. Instead, the government’s response risks creating the impression that protecting the CEC has become more important than addressing public concerns.The government appears to be treating a demand for accountability as a challenge to its authority. That is precisely the problem. The Central Government must understand that protecting the independence of the Election Commission does not mean shielding its chief from criticism. An independent constitutional institution must be capable of facing scrutiny without requiring the machinery of government to protect it from public pressure. The government may claim that the Election Commission is independent and that it has nothing to do with the alleged irregularities. But declarations of innocence cannot replace an impartial investigation. If there is nothing to hide, transparency should be the government’s strongest defence.Why should citizens be expected to trust an electoral process without being allowed to question it freely? The government must answer the allegations, ensure that genuine voters are not marginalized and support a credible examination of the evidence. The issue is not whether the CEC should be condemned before an investigation but the issue is whether the government is willing to allow that investigation to take place without political interference.Delhi Turned into a FortressReports on the October 10 protest described a security plan involving approximately 35,000 police personnel. Thousands of people were detained, while restrictions affected public movement, metro services and mobile internet in parts of the capital were closed. &amp;nbsp;The Supreme Couty Bar Association and The Delhi High Court Bar Association also condemned the detention of lawyers and alleged excessive use of force by the police.&amp;nbsp;Why must a peaceful protest trigger such an extraordinary response? If the government believes the protesters are wrong, it should answer their allegations with evidence. If it believes the Election Commission has acted correctly, it should defend its position through facts, transparency and constitutional principles.Instead, the events in Delhi present a disturbing picture. People seeking to express their grievances found themselves confronting a vast security operation. Is this how a confident democracy responds to criticism? The scale of the response raises serious questions about whether the government is becoming increasingly uncomfortable with dissent. The police have a duty to maintain public order. Nobody disputes that. But maintaining public order is not the same as suppressing public opinion. Public safety cannot become an excuse to prevent citizens from exercising their constitutional rights. A government that fears peaceful protesters should examine its own conduct before questioning the motives of its citizens.Detaining CJP Leaders&amp;nbsp;Inside an AircraftOne of the most disturbing incidents involved Cockroach Janta Party leaders Abhijeet Dipke, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka. Reports said police detained the three leaders inside their aircraft after they landed at Delhi airport. They were subsequently taken to undisclosed locations. Think about what that means for an ordinary citizen. A person boards a flight, travels to the national capital and arrives intending to participate in a peaceful protest. Instead of being allowed to proceed normally that person is detained on the aircraft.Whatever justification the authorities offer such an incident demands a clear explanation. What legal grounds supported the detention? Were the detainees informed of the reasons? Were their families and legal representatives able to establish their whereabouts? These are basic questions in a constitutional democracy.Opposition politicians including Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal and Pinarayi Vijayan (they are all former Chief Ministers), were also among those detained during the crackdown. Lawyers, activists and journalists faced detention as well. When politicians, students, lawyers and ordinary citizens find themselves caught in a sweeping security operation, the government cannot expect the public to remain silent. A democracy must never create the impression that exercising one’s rights requires permission from those in power.Are We Moving Towards a Democratic Dictatorship?Dictatorship does not always begin with the abolition of elections or the formal suspension of a constitution. Sometimes democratic institutions continue to exist while the space for dissent gradually shrinks. Elections are held, political parties operate and constitutional offices remain in place, yet citizens may increasingly find it difficult to challenge those in power without facing pressure, restrictions or intimidation.A defining characteristic of dictatorship is the concentration of power, the weakening of independent institutions, when journalists are silenced, critical voices are sidelined and sections of the media appear more interested in protecting those in power than questioning them, the suppression of dissent and the use of state machinery to silence political opposition. In a democracy the government is accountable to the people. Under authoritarian rule the government increasingly expects the people to submit to its authority without questioning its decisions.The developments reported in Delhi raise concerns that deserve serious examination. Mass detentions during protests, extensive security restrictions and unanswered questions about the treatment of demonstrators risk creating an atmosphere in which citizens become afraid to exercise their democratic rights. The controversy surrounding the revision of electoral rolls adds another layer of concern because public confidence in free and fair elections is essential to representative government.These events do not, by themselves, establish that India has become a dictatorship. However, they raise legitimate questions about whether democratic institutions are functioning with sufficient independence and whether the government’s response to criticism respects constitutional freedoms. Indian Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and peaceful assembly, subject to lawful restrictions. These protections mean little if citizens begin to fear detention simply for questioning those in power.&amp;nbsp;The danger begins when a government starts treating criticism as disloyalty, dissent as a threat and accountability as an attack on its authority. A government may possess an electoral mandate but that mandate does not give it unlimited authority. The people elect their representatives to govern within the Constitution not to stand above it. If democratic institutions are to retain public confidence, the government must demonstrate through its actions that criticism is not a crime and accountability is not an act of hostility.A country does not need to formally declare a dictatorship for its citizens to become concerned about the erosion of democratic freedoms. The real warning sign is when the institutions of democracy remain standing but the freedom to question those in power begins to disappear.The Government Must Answer the PeopleThe Central Government cannot simply wash its hands of this controversy. Delhi Police functions under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, making the Centre directly accountable for the police administration’s response. It must explain the scale of the security arrangements, the grounds for the detentions and the restrictions imposed during the protests.The Election Commission, meanwhile must address credible allegations about electoral rolls through transparent procedures. Any eligible voter wrongly removed from the rolls must have an effective means of correction. Any proven wrongdoing must be investigated, and those responsible must face the consequences.These are not unreasonable demands. They are basic expectations in a constitutional democracy. The government should not interpret every protest as an attempt to destabilise the country. Nor should citizens assume that every allegation is automatically true. What India needs is an independent process that establishes the facts, protects the citizens’ rights and holds every responsible authority accountable.India Belongs to Its PeopleI refuse to believe that democracy means voting once every few years and remaining silent in between. Elections matter but so do civil liberties, independent institutions, a free press and the right to question those who govern us.The government of the day is not the owner of India. It is the temporary custodian of power entrusted to it by the people. No Prime Minister, minister, election commissioner or political party is above public scrutiny. If the government is confident that it has acted properly, it should welcome transparency. If the CEC has discharged his duties impartially, the evidence should establish that. If irregularities have occurred, they must be exposed and corrected.What the country cannot afford is a situation in which citizens fear arrest for demanding answers and the government mistakes silence for public confidence. We must not wait for an official declaration of Emergency before defending the freedoms that make democracy meaningful. When citizens are detained for demanding accountability, when peaceful dissent is treated as a threat and when the government appears more determined to defend powerful officials than to answer public concerns, every Indian has reason to be worried.Are we living in an undeclared Emergency? That question deserves a serious answer from the government. India’s democracy belongs to its people. The Constitution is not the property of the ruling party and the right to question those in power does not disappear when the questions become uncomfortable. A government that is truly confident in its democratic mandate should have the courage to face its critics, the integrity to investigate allegations against powerful institutions and the humility to remember that it ultimately answers to the people.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Public Space
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/are-we-living-in-an-undeclared-emergency</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 18:25:48 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Demanding an early solution without unity: Are we putting the cart before the horse?]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/demanding-an-early-solution-without-unity-are-we-putting-the-cart-before-the-horse</link>
                <description><![CDATA[K Puroh“Apolitical, with no strings attached to any political party; nobody’s brainchild; and opposed to no political party, government, parliamentarian, politician, or Naga national worker.”This was the position asserted by the Naga Youth Movement during its press briefing, projecting itself as independent, non-partisan, and free from external influence. However, declarations alone do not establish a movement’s true character. Its statements and demands bear a striking resemblance to those of the so-called ‘Strange Bedfellows’ forum, which has persistently demanded an early solution to the Naga political problem. This raises a fundamental question: can an early solution be achieved without first addressing the divisions within the Naga national movement?The Ground RealityThe Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position signed between the Government of India (GoI) and the respective Naga negotiating groups have yet to produce a universally accepted settlement. Concerns persist over whether the core Naga aspirations, particularly sovereignty and the integration of all Naga-inhabited areas, have been adequately addressed. Meanwhile, other Naga national groups remain outside these agreements or hold differing positions.If reports of as many as 37 Naga national factions are accurate, the magnitude of this fragmentation should concern every right-thinking Naga. How can we expect a comprehensive and lasting settlement when the people seeking it remain divided? The Government of India has repeatedly maintained that there can be only one solution to the Naga political problem. Whatever the interpretation of this position, achieving a common settlement requires a serious effort to reconcile differences among the various Naga national groups.Is the Ball Really in New Delhi’s Court?The responsibility for resolving the Naga political problem cannot rest solely with New Delhi. While the Government of India and the negotiating parties must fulfill their respective responsibilities, the Nagas must also acknowledge their own role in the prolonged delay. We cannot continue blaming successive governments while overlooking the divisions within our own movement.This does not diminish the value of the Framework Agreement or the Agreed Position, nor does it dismiss the aspirations of those who support them. Rather, it recognises that a settlement aspiring to be comprehensive and acceptable to the Naga people must seriously address the differences that continue to divide them.The time has therefore come to reconsider our priorities. Instead of repeatedly demanding an early solution, our foremost task should be to bring the various Naga national groups closer together, establish a common understanding of our fundamental aspirations, and approach the Government of India with a united and credible political position.Unity does not mean suppressing differences, imposing one group’s position on another, or demanding unconditional surrender. It requires dialogue, mutual respect, accommodation, and a willingness to place the larger Naga interest above factional considerations. Without such efforts, demands for an immediate settlement risk putting the cart before the horse.Declarations Versus ConductAnother aspect of the Naga Youth Movement that deserves scrutiny is its reported language towards those who disagree with or oppose its activities. While claiming to be independent and non-partisan, the movement has reportedly used aggressive and intimidating words, warning dissenters not to interfere and suggesting that those who fail to understand its position should remain silent and stay at home, as a time would come when the movement itself would disturb them.Such remarks are deeply troubling. Any movement seeking public support must respect criticism and disagreement. The right to organise does not justify intimidation. A movement claiming to represent Naga youth should demonstrate restraint, respect differing opinions, and engage in constructive dialogue. Intimidation only risks undermining public confidence in its cause.Political credibility cannot be established merely through declarations of independence or non-partisanship; it must be demonstrated through conduct. As the familiar saying goes, “Actions speak louder than words.”Unity Before an Early SolutionThe Naga political problem is too serious, and the sacrifices of generations of Naga national workers too significant, for factionalism, mutual distrust, and political impatience to undermine the larger cause. An early solution is a legitimate aspiration, but urgency alone cannot overcome complex political differences.The Naga Youth Movement and the so-called ‘Strange Bedfellows’ forum must therefore reflect on their responsibilities. Rather than merely pressuring others to act, they should also consider what they can contribute towards bridging the divisions that continue to weaken the national movement.The question before us is not simply who should be blamed for the delay, but whether we are prepared to do what is necessary to make a lasting solution possible.Let us first strive for unity, develop a common political understanding, and approach the Government of India with a united voice. Until we seriously address our internal divisions, demanding an early solution without unity will remain an exercise in misplaced priorities. The future of the Naga people must be built not on demands alone, but on political wisdom, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to our common destiny.(Views expressed are personal)&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Public Space
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/demanding-an-early-solution-without-unity-are-we-putting-the-cart-before-the-horse</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 18:24:45 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[ED seizes Reliance Power assets worth Rs 2,032 crore]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/ed-seizes-reliance-power-assets-worth-rs-2032-crore</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) Headquarters Investigation Unit, New Delhi, has seized assets worth Rs 2,032.81 crore in India belonging to Anil Ambani-led Reliance Power Ltd (RPL) under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). &amp;nbsp;The seized assets include bank balances of RPL and its shareholding in Sasan Power Limited, which are equivalent in value to the foreign exchange held outside India by the company in contravention of Section 4 of FEMA, according to an official statement issued by the investigative agency on Wednesday.The investigation was initiated on the basis of information received from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), pertaining to write-offs aggregating Rs 2,101.46 crore made by RPL in its books of account. These write-offs were related to overseas investments and advances made to companies in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the Cayman Islands, the statement said.Search operations were conducted under FEMA, from March 6 to 8 this year, in which incriminating evidence was seized, and statements of several persons were recorded.Investigation has revealed that Reliance Natural Resources Ltd, which has since merged with RPL, raised $300 million through Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds in 2006. Of this, $275 million was invested in its wholly owned Singapore subsidiary, Reliance Natural Resources (Singapore) Pte Ltd (RNRL-S).RNRL-S placed these funds on deposit with Deutsche Bank (Suisse) SA, Geneva. The deposits were used as collateral for loans extended to entities incorporated in the British Virgin Islands. The investigation found that these BVI entities were controlled and managed from India by the Reliance Anil Ambani Group through front persons, who acted in accordance with the Group’s directions.Further investigation has revealed that the loan proceeds were utilised for varied purposes, including temporary round-tripping of funds to India through foreign entities based in Mauritius. The funds were utilised for the benefit of the Reliance Anil Ambani Group and parked outside India.The BVI entities failed to repay the loans extended by Deutsche Bank. As part of the cover-up, documents were fabricated to show that RNRL-S and Indonesian subsidiaries of RPL had made advances to these BVI entities for apparent genuine business purposes. During the investigation, it was found that this documentation was backdated and prepared in order to project these transactions as genuine business transactions.Further investigation is in progress, the statement added.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/ed-seizes-reliance-power-assets-worth-rs-2032-crore</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 18:09:25 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Natarajan returns to Sunrisers; Zeeshan Ansari moves to DC ahead of IPL 2027]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/natarajan-returns-to-sunrisers-zeeshan-ansari-moves-to-dc-ahead-of-ipl-2027</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): Indian left-arm pacer T. Natarajan will return to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), while leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari will join Delhi Capitals (DC) following a player trade between the two franchises ahead of the next Indian Premier League (IPL) season.&quot;Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will welcome back T. Natarajan, while Delhi Capitals (DC) will add leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari to their squad following a player trade between the two franchises,&quot; the IPL said in a release.Natarajan, who represented SRH from 2020 to 2024, will rejoin the franchise at a revised fee of Rs 5 crore. Delhi Capitals had acquired the Tamil Nadu pacer for Rs 10.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction.The 35-year-old made his DC debut against SRH on May 5, 2025, after a collarbone injury and subsequent recovery kept him out of the team’s first 10 matches that season. He featured in two matches in the 2025 edition, taking five wickets in 10 appearances during the 2026 season.Natarajan enjoyed his most successful IPL campaign in 2024, claiming 19 wickets to finish as Sunrisers Hyderabad’s leading wicket-taker and helping the side reach the final.Across his IPL career, the left-arm seamer has played 73 matches and taken 72 wickets at an economy rate of 9.21. Known for his yorkers and ability to bowl at the death, he will return to a franchise where he established himself as a reliable Indian pace option.Natarajan will join SRH&#039;s leading pace attack, which includes youngsters like Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, led by captain Pat Cummins. The Hyderabad squad also includes Sri Lankan pacer Eshan Malinga, who has impressed with his bowling.Meanwhile, Ansari will join Delhi Capitals at his existing fee of Rs 40 lakh after representing SRH in 10 matches during IPL 2025. He was benched for the entire tournament in IPL 2026.The 26-year-old leg-spinner made an impressive start to his IPL career, claiming three wickets on debut against Delhi Capitals. He has taken six wickets in 10 IPL appearances and is expected to add depth to DC’s spin-bowling options, which include Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/natarajan-returns-to-sunrisers-zeeshan-ansari-moves-to-dc-ahead-of-ipl-2027</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 18:08:15 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/71662597_1791981495_thumb_60302885_1791981495_DC_vs_RR_038.JPG"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[PIL in SC seeks uniform judicial terms, abbreviations and court fees across India]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/pil-in-sc-seeks-uniform-judicial-terms-abbreviations-and-court-fees-across-india</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking directions to the Law Commission of India to prepare a comprehensive report in consultation with the apex court and all High Courts to standardise judicial terminology, abbreviations, phrases, norms, court fee structures, and case registration processes across the country. &amp;nbsp;The plea, filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay under Article 32 of the Constitution, alternatively sought the constitution of an expert committee or directions to the Union Law Ministry to prepare a report to ensure uniformity in judicial procedures and nomenclature.The petition, which has arrayed the Union government, the Secretary General of the Supreme Court, the Registrars General of all High Courts, and the Law Commission of India as respondents, contended that significant variations in judicial terminology, case classifications, abbreviations, procedures and court fees across High Courts cause inconvenience to litigants, advocates and authorities, despite courts operating under the same constitutional and legal framework.&quot;The terminology used by different High Courts for different types of cases is not uniform. This causes inconvenience not only to the general public but also to advocates and the authorities as well,&quot; the petition stated.It further said that even where courts deal with similar categories of cases, the terms and abbreviations used to identify them differ, making the existing system difficult to navigate.Citing examples from various High Courts, the petition pointed out that criminal appeals are abbreviated as CRA, CR.A, CRAPL and CRL.A in different jurisdictions, while contempt appeals are referred to as CONTA, CONTAPP, CPTA, and ConApp.The plea also highlighted variations in the classification of writ petitions, stating that the Delhi High Court has multiple categories of writ petitions, while the Gujarat High Court deals with such matters under a single category of &quot;WRIT PETITION (PIL)&quot;.Similarly, the petition said, the Gauhati and Himachal Pradesh High Courts have several categories of writ petitions, while the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court follows its own classification system.It also flagged differences in the nomenclature of company matters, with COMPET used in the Gauhati High Court, COMP in the Gujarat High Court, and COP in the Himachal Pradesh High Court.The plea referred to further inconsistencies within the Bombay High Court and its Benches at Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Panaji, arguing that different terminologies and descriptions for similar case types create difficulties for advocates practising across these jurisdictions.According to the petition, the Bombay High Court&#039;s principal seat has 330 case types with descriptions but without abbreviations, while its Nagpur and Aurangabad benches have 77 and 61 such case types, respectively.The petitioner also raised concerns over the absence of uniformity in court fees for similar matters of comparable valuation across different states and High Courts, arguing that such disparities adversely affect access to justice.&quot;Judicial equality is a matter of constitutional right, its differentiation based on the jurisdiction of courts violates the Right to Equality enshrined under Articles 14-15 of the Constitution,&quot; the plea stated.Citing examples, the petition said that a criminal miscellaneous application under Section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, attracts a court fee of Rs 2.65 in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, compared with Rs 2.50 in the Delhi High Court. It further highlighted that the court fee for a first appeal in matrimonial cases is Rs 19.50 in Punjab and Chandigarh, while the same appeal attracts a fee of Rs 24.50 in Haryana.The plea also highlighted differences in fees for transfer applications and company petitions, arguing that litigants are required to pay different amounts for similar legal proceedings depending on the jurisdiction.&quot;Unequal Court Fees in different States discriminate among citizens based on their place of birth and residence,&quot; the petition contended, adding that such differences also promote regionalism.It further referred to various state-specific amendments to the Court Fees Act, 1870, arguing that the resulting disparities underscore the need for a uniform court fee structure.The petition stated that the petitioner had submitted a representation to the Chairman of the Law Commission on September 5, seeking uniformity in judicial terminology, abbreviations, norms, phrases, court fees and case registration processes. However, claiming that the authorities had not taken steps to address the issue, the plea said the need for judicial standardisation continued to remain unaddressed.The petitioner has sought directions for a comprehensive exercise involving the Supreme Court and all High Courts to establish uniform standards for case classifications, judicial terminology, abbreviations, court fees and registration procedures across the country.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/pil-in-sc-seeks-uniform-judicial-terms-abbreviations-and-court-fees-across-india</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 18:06:34 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[India stands in solidarity with Saudi Arabia, hopes peace returns to region soon: MEA]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/india-stands-in-solidarity-with-saudi-arabia-hopes-peace-returns-to-region-soon-mea</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): India on Wednesday reiterated its condemnation of attacks targeting civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, terming them as &quot;unacceptable&quot; while expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia in defence of its sovereignty.Addressing a bi-weekly media briefing in New Delhi on Wednesday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed hope that peace and normalcy returns to the region soon.When asked about the situation in Saudi Arabia and its impact on Indian nationals, Jaiswal responded, &quot;There have been a string of attacks in Saudi Arabia and we have condemned those attacks. Yesterday also, there was attack on Aramco headquarters. We condemn all such attacks on civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and we feel that such attacks need to cease immediately, they are totally unacceptable. We stand in solidarity with the people and government of Saudi Arabia in defence of their sovereignty and we hope that there is return to peace and normalcy in the region soon.&quot;The MEA spokesperson said that the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia has remained in regular touch with the Indian community and also issued advisories. He noted that some of the people travelling between India and Saudi Arabia have been affected by the disruption in flight operations after the attack on airports in Saudi Arabia.&quot;In so far as the situation of our people, we have a large diaspora there. We&#039;ve also, our Embassy in Saudi Arabia, they have been in regular touch with our community members for their welfare. At the same time, they&#039;ve issued advisories. We also have a lot of travellers between Saudi Arabia and India. Some of them have been impacted because there have been disruptions in the flight schedule after the attack on the Riyadh International Airport and other airport that happened in Saudi Arabia. Indian carriers have been impacted. There have been disruptions. But, Saudi Arabian Airlines several flight operations are happening. Those flights are moving between India and Saudi Arabia.&quot;The ones which have been disrupted, the airlines connections, are those originating or going to Riyadh, to Dammam, to Medina and to one or two more airports, Jeddah for example. We have a lot of travellers there but our Embassy is in touch with our people there and hopefully, as things settle down or as they are, continue to provide updated information to our travellers or people who are stuck there,&quot; he added.Jaiswal also spoke about the attack in Saudi Arabia that took place on October 10, which claimed the life of one Indian and injured 11 others. He said that the Embassy provided assistance to the family of the deceased person in performing the last rites, as they wished to hold it in Riyadh. He mentioned that Indian Embassy officials have been regularly visiting injured Indian nationals in the hospital.&quot;The attack that had happened on 10th of October, 12 people, as I had informed you earlier, had been injured. One of them unfortunately passed away. His last rites as per the wishes of the family, were performed in Riyadh and the Embassy assisted... Our Ambassador was also there,&quot; Jaiswal said.&quot;There are three people who have been discharged of the 11 and eight people continue to be in the hospital, four of them in ICU. Our Embassy officials are regularly visiting them in the hospital. At the same time, they are also in touch with their family members. We remain committed to doing our best for the welfare and well-being of our nationals abroad,&quot; he added.Amid the escalating attacks, the Indian Embassy has advised the Indian community in Saudi Arabia to remain calm, vigilant and stay indoors in case of an aerial attack and follow the instructions issued by local authorities. It also &quot;strongly advised&quot; Indian nationals to refrain from circulating or reposting any videos or news related to the ongoing events.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/india-stands-in-solidarity-with-saudi-arabia-hopes-peace-returns-to-region-soon-mea</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:55:26 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[“To Leave Us Alone”: Why the Naga Political Question Remains Unresolved]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/to-leave-us-alone-why-the-naga-political-question-remains-unresolved</link>
                <description><![CDATA[A century of assertion, negotiation, and unfulfilled settlement.Besesayo KezoIPS, Retd. DGPIn 1929, the Naga Club told the Simon Commission that the Nagas wished “to leave us alone to determine for ourselves as in ancient times.” Nearly a century later, this demand still defines the Naga political question. As British power receded after the Second World War, the Naga people articulated a collective political identity that has shaped decades of conflict and negotiation, even though a settlement remains unresolved.The Naga Hills District Tribal Council, established in 1945, was reorganized and renamed the Naga National Council (NNC) on 2 February 1946 in Wokha. The change from “Tribal Council” to “National Council” signaled a broader claim to a shared political identity that transcended tribal divisions. Angami Zapu Phizo, born in Khonoma in 1904, emerged as its leading figure. After spending several years in Burma as a businessman, he collaborated with the Imperial Japanese Army during the war in exchange for promises of recognition of Naga sovereignty. Most Nagas, however, supported the Allies during the Battle of Kohima. Following the war, Phizo returned and worked to mobilize Nagas across areas administered by India and the unadministered tracts around the concept of “Nagaism”—a shared national consciousness that transcended tribal divisions. He argued that the Nagas had never been conquered or absorbed by India and that the British departure restored their inherent independence.In 1948, Phizo was arrested in Calcutta for fomenting unrest in the Indo-Burma borderlands and imprisoned at Presidency Jail. During his incarceration, he wrote lengthy appeals to Governor-General C. Rajagopalachari. He was released later that year after a vehicle accident involving his family. A pivotal meeting occurred on 19 July 1947, when a Naga delegation, including Phizo, met Mahatma Gandhi at Bhangi Colony in Delhi. Accounts in the Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi and Naga narratives record Gandhi as saying that if the Nagas did not consider themselves Indian, no one could compel them to join the Union, and that he would travel to Kohima and ask to be shot before any Naga was harmed. Several days later, on 14 August 1947—one day before India’s independence—the NNC declared Naga independence at Kohima, raised a flag, and sent telegrams to the United Nations, the British government, and the newly established Indian authorities. Phizo had previously announced the declaration through his People’s Independence League.In June 1947, moderate NNC leaders, including Theyiechuthe Sakhrie and Aliba Imti, signed the Nine-Point Naga-Akbar Hydari Accord with Sir Akbar Hydari, the Governor of Assam. The agreement recognized the Nagas’ right “to develop themselves according to their freely expressed wishes.” It provided for Naga courts to operate under customary law; Naga control over executive departments funded by the Nagas; safeguards against the enactment, without consent, of laws affecting religious practices; protection of land from alienation to non-Nagas; Naga responsibility for taxation; boundary adjustments to unify Naga areas; and the continued application of the Chin Hills and Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations. The critical ninth clause stipulated that the Governor, as agent of the Indian Union, would bear special responsibility for ten years to ensure compliance with the agreement. At the end of that period, the Naga Council would be asked whether it sought an extension or a new agreement concerning the future of the Naga people. Differing interpretations of this clause—some viewing it as opening the possibility of future separation, and others as providing only for a review of administrative arrangements within India—led the Indian government to effectively repudiate it by 1949.Phizo became president of the NNC in late 1949 or 1950, after defeating Vizar Angami by a single vote. Under his leadership, the organization held a voluntary plebiscite on 16 May 1951 at Khuochiezie in Kohima, followed by similar votes across Naga areas. Participation was recorded by thumbprint rather than by secret ballot. The NNC claimed that 99.9 percent of participants supported independence. The Government of India and the Assam administration rejected the exercise, citing the absence of official observers, the exclusion of government employees, incomplete coverage of all Naga-inhabited areas, and the implausibly high reported percentage. Phizo met Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on several occasions in 1951–52, but the meetings produced no agreement. The Indian government regarded the Naga Hills as an integral part of India.As peaceful avenues narrowed, some factions within the movement turned to armed resistance. In March 1956, the NNC formally proclaimed the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN), comprising a parliament (Ho Ho) of Tatars, a Kedahge (president), and Kilonsers (ministers), as well as the Naga Home Guards (later known as the Naga Army), which drew on surplus Allied and Japanese weapons. Indian Army operations intensified, and the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act was enacted in 1958. Internal violence also accompanied the conflict. T. Sakhrie, the NNC’s founding secretary and a leading moderate who advocated nonviolent methods and had broken with Phizo, was assassinated near Kohima on January 17, 1956, an act widely attributed to hardliners. Phizo escaped to East Pakistan in December 1956 and eventually reached London in 1960, where he lived in exile until his death in 1990, continuing his international campaign.Alongside the underground movement, moderate leaders organized the Naga People’s Convention (NPC). At its third session in Mokokchung in October 1959, the Convention adopted a 16-Point proposal. On 26 July 1960, a delegation led by Dr. Imkongliba Ao, president of the NPC, signed the 16-Point Agreement with the Government of India, led by Prime Minister Nehru. The agreement provided for the Naga Hills-Tuensang Area to become the state of Nagaland within the Indian Union, initially under the Ministry of External Affairs; a Governor appointed by the President; a Council of Ministers accountable to a Legislative Assembly; representation in Parliament; and robust safeguards, later enshrined in Article 371A. Under these safeguards, no Act of Parliament affecting Naga religious or social practices, customary laws, or the ownership and transfer of land and its resources would apply unless approved by the Nagaland Assembly. The possibility of incorporating contiguous Naga areas at a later date was also noted, subject to constitutional provisions. The State of Nagaland Act, 1962, and the Constitution (Thirteenth Amendment) Act led to Nagaland’s formal inauguration as India’s 16th state on 1 December 1963, with P. Shilu Ao serving as its first Chief Minister. Imkongliba Ao was assassinated in Mokokchung on 22 August 1961; Nehru described the killing as a cold-blooded and treacherous act.Violence persisted after statehood. In 1964, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council facilitated a Peace Mission comprising Jayaprakash Narayan (the Sarvodaya leader), Assam Chief Minister Bimala Prasad Chaliha, and Reverend Michael Scott, an Anglican priest known for his work on civil liberties. The Mission secured a ceasefire agreement, signed in Sakraba village in May 1964 and brought into effect on 6 September 1964, between the Government of India and the Federal Government of Nagaland. Several rounds of talks followed, but fundamental differences over sovereignty remained unresolved. Narayan resigned in early 1966 after advising the underground movement to accept autonomy within the Union; Scott was expelled from India in May 1966 after writing to the United Nations. The Mission dissolved without achieving a political settlement, although the ceasefire continued for several years before being formally terminated in 1972.Internal divisions intensified. General Kaito Sukhai (Kaito Sema), a prominent young military commander who had led early operations, including the Battle of Hoshepu, and later opposed the pro-China orientation and certain leadership practices, was assassinated in Kohima on 3–4 August 1968. Later that year, his followers, including his brother Kughato Sukhai and Scato Swu, formed the Revolutionary Government of Nagaland (RGN) to advocate a peaceful settlement and to continue the ceasefire. The RGN was dissolved in 1973, and many of its cadres were absorbed into the Border Security Force.On 11 November 1975, representatives of underground organizations met with Governor LP Singh in Shillong and signed the Shillong Accord. The participants included I. Temjenba, S. Dahru, Venyiyi Rhakho, Z Ramyo, M Assa, and Kevi Yallay, the younger brother of AZ Phizo. They agreed to accept the Constitution of India unconditionally, deposit their arms at designated locations, and allow a reasonable period to address other issues. Venyiyi Rhakho, who participated in the discussions, declined to sign the final document. Hardliners denounced the Accord as treasonous. Phizo, still in London, neither formally endorsed nor repudiated it. A supplementary agreement in January 1976 addressed the implementation of the arms-deposit clause.Opposition to the Shillong Accord led Isak Chishi Swu (Sema), Thuingaleng Muivah (Tangkhul), and SS Khaplang (Hemi Naga from Burma) to break away and form the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) on January 31, 1980. The NSCN rejected the Accord, established the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim, and pursued a more ideologically driven program that combined socialism, a Christian spiritual outlook, and the demand for a sovereign Nagalim encompassing all Naga-inhabited areas. In 1988, amid leadership, ethnic, and strategic differences, the organization split violently into NSCN-IM (Isak-Muivah) and NSCN-K (Khaplang), resulting in the deaths of many cadres. Further factionalism has produced additional groups over the decades.Peace processes resumed in the 1990s. The NSCN-IM entered into a formal ceasefire with the Government of India in 1997, which has been extended periodically. On 3 August 2015, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the NSCN-IM and the Government of India signed a Framework Agreement. The publicly released portions acknowledge the “unique history” of the Nagas and refer to “sharing the sovereign power” and an “enduring inclusive new relationship of peaceful co-existence of the two entities.” The NSCN-IM interprets this as recognition of Naga sovereignty and as requiring a separate flag and constitution (Yehzabo); the Government of India maintains that any settlement must remain within the Indian Constitution and that the agreement does not concede separate sovereign status. The government has never officially published the full text. In November 2017, the Government signed an “Agreed Position” with the Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs), a coalition of other factions that has generally been more willing to work within the existing constitutional framework and does not insist on the same interpretation of shared sovereignty.As of October 2026, the Naga political issue remains unresolved. Although multiple ceasefires remain in effect, a comprehensive final settlement has yet to be reached. Key points of contention include the NSCN-IM’s demand for a Naga flag and constitution; the integration of contiguous Naga areas, which neighboring states oppose; and differing interpretations of the 2015 Framework Agreement and the 2017 Agreed Position. Recent developments include the appointment of a new interlocutor, the NSCN-IM’s call for a third-party guarantor for any eventual agreement, and internal divisions among factions. These include the formation of a provisional government by an “Eastern Flank” group based in Myanmar, which has criticized the Hebron leadership. Naga civil society organizations and tribal bodies continue to call for unity and an early, honorable settlement that can secure broad acceptance.From the mobilization of Nagaism in the 1940s, through the Hydari Agreement, the 1951 plebiscite, the establishment of Nagaland as a state under the 16-Point Agreement, successive ceasefires and accords, and the ongoing framework negotiations, Naga political history since World War II has been marked by persistent assertion of a distinct identity, repeated efforts at accommodation, and the enduring challenge of reconciling competing visions of sovereignty, integration, and constitutional status. Whether the current processes will yield a durable settlement remains an open question that continues to shape politics in Nagaland and the wider region.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Public Space
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                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/to-leave-us-alone-why-the-naga-political-question-remains-unresolved</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:52:47 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[What happened when Naga leaders met Prime Minister Nehru in 1956? A conversation from the archives]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/what-happened-when-naga-leaders-met-prime-minister-nehru-in-1956-a-conversation-from-the-archives</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Sulanthung LothaEx-MLA &amp; Former Naga Hoho PresidentFrom Nehru ArchivesThe Prime Minister saw the six liberal Naga leaders[2] on 15 – 9‑1956 and talked and listened to them for about two hours. Following is the verbatim record of the talks:Jawaharlal Nehru: I am glad you have come here. I got your wire in which you referred to my speech in Parliament.[3] You seem to have got mixed up with what I said and what Rishang Keishing said.[4] My speech was a long speech. The basic things I said were carefully considered and our policy was carefully stated in that speech. I would suggest you read it.Jasokie: We have read that speech now. But we were misled by the headlines given in the newspapers.JN: It is a little over nine years since India became independent. During this period we have faced many problems. We have drawn up our Constitution and solved many problems. We are hard at work to improve the living conditions of our people. Have you read our Constitution?Jasokie: Yes.JN: The whole or only the Sixth Schedule?Jasokie: Mainly the Sixth Schedule which we were interested in.JN: You should read the other main provisions of the Constitution also. We gave a lot of thought to it, but we had so many problems facing us at that time. We had to look after millions of refugees from Pakistan. Speaking for myself, I could not then give much thought to the Hill areas of North East India, although I was very much interested in them. Broadly speaking, I wanted them to have as much autonomy as possible and share with us the freedom of India, that is, freedom for all the people.We drew up a complicated Constitution protecting the rights of everybody through the Judiciary, Parliament and other safeguards. We thought the Sixth Schedule was a step which should be worked out and then changed, if necessary. I did not give much time to it then. The Sixth Schedule applied to various areas, but the Naga National Council did not cooperate in working it. We have, therefore, had no chance to get it going or take further steps.We met some Naga representatives during this period. I met Phizo twice or thrice and some others too. Everytime Phizo met me he talked about independence. I told him I was not prepared to discuss it as I considered it an absurd claim. The result was that we never discussed the other problems either. It is quite possible if other matters had been discussed many problems could have been solved in a friendly and cooperative way. The situation grew worse and Phizo gave a lot of trouble. I came to the conclusion that Phizo should not be relied upon and he was out only for mischief. I said then I was prepared to meet Naga representatives but I would not meet Phizo, unless he gave up violence and the claim for independence. Then the trouble started and we were faced with this situation.Before I say more, I should like you to tell me what your feelings are. I will say this that the violent step Phizo and others took was a foolish step and a step which no country could tolerate. India is a big country, a proud country. Our pride is that we live up to certain principles. If you have travelled in India you must have noticed a great variety of our customs, religions, languages, etc. We maintain all this variety, but, nevertheless, we all have a national unity which is based on this variety which our Constitution tells us to maintain. We have to maintain the unity and integrity of the country. It is necessary at all times and more especially now when we are anxious to advance and preserve our freedom which we have won by our struggle against the British.During these nine years we have made considerable progress and also gained prestige in the world. Therefore, for us to go in for fighting and use our Army is against our past record and present policy. It is distasteful to us. But, if violence is used against the State, we cannot help using force to suppress violence.Our outlook is to give people local freedom and to build up the whole country.The world today is a very complicated world. Now we have the Suez Canal trouble, for instance. In this state of the world, the first question for the country is to keep its unity and integrity. Because that unity and integrity was challenged in the Naga areas, we had to use force. Until peace and order are adequately established there, we have to use force.I said in my speech in Parliament that we are anxious to win over our Naga people. Not only is Naga territory theirs, but the whole of India is theirs. It is their duty to build up their local area and the whole of India, preserve their customs, language, etc., within the integrity and unity of India. Besides, it is a frontier area and we have to be particularly careful about it.Jasokie: The loyal leaders are very much agitated that Government will meet Phizo. We are directly concerned with the Naga people and we want to know the Government’s stand. Apart from this, we want a political platform to convince our people and we want to know the Government’s policy in that regard.JN: I will be very brief. We intend to be firm with the hostiles until peace is restored.Satsuo Angami: We are only six Nagas here, but we represent a large body of Nagas. Those who have resorted deliberately to violence are few, hardly two and a half per cent. We have been deputed by the Naga people to represent their wishes. The villagers are facing trouble on both sides; the hostiles threaten them if they do not give food and shelter to them and the Army, not knowing who are friendly and who are hostiles, sometimes kills innocent people. Therefore, to save innocent people, we have arranged to send some youths to go with the Army and tell them who are innocent villagers. We want to end this trouble as soon as possible. We have, therefore, to tell you certain things and ask for your advice and suggestions. The question of independence is not there, but some political status for a settlement is necessary. Those who are cooperating with the Government and the liberal group of Nagas had their differences with Phizo, even before the start of the struggle. Phizo’s group said they would not budge an inch from independence. We said independence would not lead to anywhere. But we want to know definitely from you what we can offer to the people when we go back. Without a promise from you and a political platform it is very difficult for us to convince the people and restore peace. Phizo’s political platform is that of independence under which he is promising the people all kinds of things possible on earth. We need a good political platform to convince and win over the masses of the people. We asked the Foreign Secretary if all the Naga areas can be put in one administrative unit within the Union of India and within the framework of the Constitution.TN Angami[6]: Some of our misguided people are killing our own innocent Nagas, yet we feel for them. Therefore, we would ask you to grant amnesty to those who surrender their arms and ammunition. If this amnesty is granted, we believe many armed Nagas will surrender. In the case of those who have committed heinous crimes, the law will take its course.JN: An amnesty has been declared.[7] What more do you want? We can deal with heinous crimes in accordance with the Naga customary law, depending on the merits of each case. We do not want reprisals or punishment for punishment’s sake, but serious crimes have to be dealt with and the offenders punished. You have your own methods of punishment. We have declared an amnesty for those who surrender arms and we should like to use people’s cooperation in dealing with them.You mentioned that some of you have started going with our Army to guide them. When did this start?Jasokie: Two months ago.JN: We started it because we felt that the situation should be dealt with in cooperation with our Naga friends. A new General, General Thimayya, has taken overall charge of this area. We have sent him there not because he is a great General, but because he is good in seeking the cooperation of the people. There must be mutual trust. Your views may be different from mine, but we must be frank with each other and trust each other.I was very much distressed and unhappy at some of the incidents that occurred at the hands of our Army. The saddest incident was the death of Dr Haralu and we are trying our best to punish the guilty.I want to change the whole approach to this problem. We have to deal with the hostiles firmly - they are hostile not only to Government but also hostile to the Naga people. We, therefore, want the trust and cooperation of the people and act in consultation with them. This takes time and trust does not grow suddenly. General Thimayya has been given these instructions and understands things. Therefore, our policy is:(1) to deal firmly with those who continue their hostilities; and(2) to cooperate with those who are not hostile and to seek their help and advice.Difficulties will arise in following this policy; but the main thing is that there should be frequent consultations between our authorities and our Naga friends so that misunderstandings can be removed. The final authority will be that of our General and we expect him to carry out our policy successfully.You mentioned that independence appeals to the people and you also mentioned a separate state. The cry of independence has, instead of bringing peace or comfort to the people, only brought them distress and trouble. A mere slogan or a cry does not mean anything. Therefore, you must remember that what you are after is not merely a slogan but the giving of a feeling and sensation to the people that they can live their lives as they want to live them and not to change their customs, unless they want to change them, to develop hospitals, schools, roads, etc., about which there can be no difference. Do you have any Community Projects or National Extension Service blocks in the Naga Hills District?Jasokie: We have five National Extension Service blocks but no Community Project. They almost cover the whole District. They began in 1954 but Phizo’s propaganda came in the way. Since hostilities have started, they are not working.JN: These Community Projects are meant to build up rural areas like yours, to develop their own leadership and their community cooperation. We do not mean to crowd your areas with outside officers; they are there only to train the local people. At the end of the Second Five Year Plan period, we shall cover the whole of rural India with these Projects. At the bottom we have a village worker, then the doctors, engineers and others. The whole idea is to train the people of the area. This is the real great work we are doing in India today - to build up the people to produce their own leaders and not to thrust outsiders on them.We have inherited the administrative system from British days - it has some good points and some bad points. We are making it more democratic so that the people themselves could control their own affairs, through Parliament, through Community Projects and the like. The Community Project is the biggest programme in the world today. We have about 25,000 village workers at present and are training 10,000 more every year.Why I am saying all this is because sometimes people try to capture people’s imagination by mere slogans, but that is not enough. I can understand the Naga people not wanting officers from outside. I myself spent 10 years in British jails and although I am Prime Minister today I can well understand the dislike of the people to be administered by officers. But what did we do when we became independent? We did not dismiss all the officers because we would have no trained people left then. There were many good people among them and some bad also. Many of them have done and are doing very good work. Even some who did badly during British times are doing good work with us now. You cannot disrupt all these things suddenly; so one has to accept things and then change them. If one upsets things suddenly, it may please some, but that would be childish. All great countries need trained people to do the work and public meetings alone cannot solve problems.Therefore, in the whole of India, we are changing the people from inside and we are trying to remove the differences between the officers and the people which existed in British times. We have to work hard and it takes time - it may take 20 or 25 years to develop our country fully. All these five year plans are meant to build up not only industries but the people - the people come first. The kind of people we lack most today are engineers. We cannot afford to waste trained people. Therefore, we accepted a system which was built by the British even though we did not like it. We accepted even some British officers, but we are changing the system. My stand is that we have to build up the Naga areas. The only people who can build them up are the Nagas themselves. We can only send you experts, but we want to train Naga engineers, Naga doctors, etc. They must build themselves up not only for the Naga areas, but for the whole of India. I want you to understand and know how our minds work; as we have to work together. We must understand each other. We can then help each other.I cannot change India by law or a decree. I am not a dictator. It takes time. For instance, there is still unemployment in India. I think we can get rid of it only by careful schemes and not by law. Even among independent countries there has to be a lot of cooperation. These independent countries, like Nepal, Burma, Malaya and some African countries, are constantly asking for all kinds of help from us. We ourselves have taken the help from Germany, Russia and UK in the three big steel plants that we are building.[8] The next plants will be built by Indians. We want the people of each area to take charge of the area and develop it. Officers from outside are there only to help and not to rule and govern; but one cannot remain cut off from the world. For instance, the countries which were most cut off from the world, like Tibet, are now moving fast. It used to take four weeks to reach Lhasa from India and now it takes only two hours by air. The world is becoming small and we cannot remain isolated. Quite apart from my wishes and your wishes, you cannot simply consider the Naga territory as apart from the rest of India or the world. But what is necessary is to realize that it has its own special ways and customs — in some ways it is more advanced and in some other ways it is more backward than the rest of India. Therefore, a certain helpful protection from outside exploitation is necessary; but one cannot entirely remain away from the rest of the world, and isolated existence is not politically or economically possible today. We want you in the Naga areas to train the people to govern themselves. We want you also to work in the rest of India and to have a knowledge of world affairs. One must have this larger picture of autonomy.You have talked about a Naga state and you said that it has nothing to do with independence. I want to point out to you two things:(i) Our states have to fulfil some qualifications. They must be large enough in resources, trained personnel, etc. We cannot make any small area into a state which does not fulfil those qualifications;(ii) this applies particularly to frontier areas. We have to take special care of them, even though we are friendly with our neighbours China and Burma.We do not consider it right or desirable to make any announcement about the future. This cannot be made while the trouble created by Phizo and others continues. When there is peace and order, we can consider these matters.One promise I can always make, because that is in accordance with our policy. We want all parts of India to develop fully and to rely upon themselves and not have interference from outside. This applies to the Naga area also. The present set-up in the Naga Hills can be considered when the trouble is over and not before. We are prepared to evolve a new set-up which may be considered more suitable. This will have to be done by our Parliament, but we wish to consult the Naga people fully about it when the time comes.You feel that it will be easier for you to deal with your people if you give them something solid. I am convinced it is not safe or right to do this at the present time. It may appear as a surrender as long as trouble continues, but as soon as the trouble is over, it will be a cooperative attempt to solve the problem in the direction that the Naga people should shoulder the responsibility not only to run the Naga area but also the other areas. It involves constitutional changes. I am not a king or an emperor and cannot issue a decree. I have to go to Parliament and convince them. I think I can convince them but only at the right time and in the right way.Our objective is to develop the area and train the people to govern themselves. The Community Projects are the basis for self-government of areas, especially areas like yours. You have to build self-government from below and that should go on. But apart from this, when the time comes for you and us to consider what proper steps to take, I do not propose to take any steps without consulting the Naga people. I am not frightened by Phizo and company and I do not propose to deal with them.Jasokie: What do you advise we should tell the people? They want to get independence. We have to remould the people to other ideas. We cannot offer them autonomy within Assam. They will not accept it. At the same time, we do not want to exploit hostile activity to secure a settlement.JN: The first thing they should understand is:- (1) the method of violence and fighting will bring misery and trouble and not independence; (2) this talk of Naga independence has no relationship to modern world. I say Nagas are independent today because they are part of independent India, as India is a sovereign democratic State. I can understand you when you say that you have not had the opportunity of taking active and full part in the activities of independent India. Therefore, you should try to explain to your people that this talk of independence has landed them in trouble. You are independent, as independent as others in India and have the same individual freedom. But this is within the Union of India.You mentioned your feelings against association with Assam. I do not rule out any proposal you may wish to make for our consideration. Only two considerations are supreme:(1) national security; and (2) national unity.Subject to these two supreme considerations, I want the Nagas to have the fullest freedom, the exact pattern of which we can discuss and settle later.Jasokie: The Nagas want a straight answer “yes” or “No”. Lengthy explanations make them suspicious.JN: If the question is “Independence”, the answer is “No”. For instance, here, at our doorstep is Delhi State. It is an advanced State, but we have to deprive it of its statehood; statehood is not necessary for freedom. But I realize you have to counteract a lot of slogans thrown out by Phizo. You want self-government for the Naga areas within the Union of India. I agree with you, but we have to consider it when the proper time comes.Khieya: We have some followers and supporters. We do not want to fool them any more. We want to give them a straight answer. We have told them that independence is out of the question but we want a political status and the first thing we want is unification of the Naga areas. The second thing we want is a separate state completely cut off from Assam. We must be sincere and frank with our people; otherwise 50 to 75 per cent of Nagas may perish because they are not acquainted with military operations.JN: What is your definition of “Nagas” — Angamis, Aos or Semas? How has the term “Naga” come to cover them all?Jasokie: Naga is a Sema word, meaning ‘Village people’.JN: I thought the British had coined this word. Now you have different languages. There are some Nagas in Burma. Then there are Nagas in Manipur, which has been a separate state for hundreds of years. You cannot bring all these Nagas in one state and upset states that have existed for centuries. Then you talked about Assam- that you do not like to be associated with Assam. Am I right?Jasokie: We want to be treated on an equal basis with Assam and not as a District of Assam.JN: Many states in Central India are being joined in one larger state and in Western India also the same thing is happening, but nobody there thinks his status has become less by joining a bigger state.Silie Haralu: What we want is that the Tuensang Frontier Division and the Naga Hills District should be one administrative area for the time being and we can give it any name - a state or anything else - after peace has been restored.JN: At present Tuensang Frontier Division is in NEFA. which is directly under the Centre. The Naga Hills District is an autonomous district under the Assam State administration. Our tendency is to abolish smaller states. You are suggesting something which goes against our policy. You want to create smaller states. I can understand that the Naga Hills and Tuensang Frontier Division are similar areas and should be dealt with under one administration.Jasokie: Yes, but under a separate administration.JN: We can consider that when the time comes.Jasokie: We have understood your point, but we want you to understand ours. For a political platform we want a Naga state when peace is restored. You said if it is given now it will be a sign of weakness. I want to ask you “Can this be considered when peace is restored?”JN: I am not ruling out anything when peace is restored. We will consult the Naga people and consider everything that is put up. We want the Naga people to run their own show.TN Angami: We understand, but we feel pained because we will find it difficult to explain to our people who have suffered and who are still suffering.JN: I understand. I am as anxious as you are to stop this suffering. I want to win the goodwill of the Nagas, but I do not want to bribe them. They are a proud people and I am proud also.T.N. Angami: If the situation is prolonged for a few months more, it will wipe out the Nagas.JN: I have told you that we want to give Nagas full measure of autonomy in consultation with them, but I cannot give you any definite promise about a political future. I could give you a state which will be the shadow of a state but lacking the substance of a state. But I do not want to do this. I want to come to Shillong and, if possible, to Kohima in the next month or two and I hope I shall meet you then.[9] I am glad you came here and am glad to have met you.FootnotesSOURCE: SELECTED WORKS OF JAWAHARLAL NEHRU, SECOND SERIES, VOL. 35, pp. 142-152New Delhi, 15 September 1956. JN CollectionThe delegation, led by John Bosco Jasokie, included T.N. Angami, Silie Haralu, Virulie Angami, K. Khieya and Satsuo Angami. They belonged to the Naga National Council Reforming Committee, which did not subscribe to the demand of A.Z. Phizo for an independent Naga state.For Nehru’s speech in Lok Sabha on 23 August 1956 see Selected Works (second series), Vol. 34, pp. 160-172.Participating in the discussion, Rishang Keishing, Lok Sabha member from outer Manipur, said that the Government dealt with the Naga problem from a position of strength and the Naga attempts to have discussions with the Government failed because the latter had always put some conditions before the meeting. This led to violence followed by military operations in which the Army behaved ruthlessly with Naga hostiles but at the same time could not give protection to peaceful Nagas. Lastly, Keishing suggested that to solve the problem: (a) the Government should declare general amnesty and have talks with NNC representatives and others, (b) a separate administrative unit with Naga Hills, Tuensang division and Tirap Frontier region should be formed, and (c) a parliamentary delegation should visit the disturbed areas to restore goodwill and confidence.See (second series), Vol. 33, p. 176.Thepfulo Nakhro Angami (b. 1913); served in Indian Army overseas during Second World War; in Indian Civil Service, 1946-50; active in the political life of Nagaland since 1950; member of the Naga National Council but broke away from it in 1955 on the question of violence; helped in the formation of Naga People’s Convention and member in its Select Committee since 1957; Chairman, Interim Body, Nagaland, 1961 -63; Speaker, Legislative Assembly, Nagaland, 1964 66; Chief Minister, Nagaland, 1966-69; Minister of Public Works and Electricity, Nagaland, 1969-72.Raj Kumar Kochhar, who was appointed General Officer Commanding, Assam, in April 1956, issued a declaration in May 1956 assuring full protection to those who surrendered their arms, unless they were involved in murder or heinous crimes. See also Selected Works (second series), Vol. 33, pp. 185, 187 and 189.It was decided to set up three integrated iron and steel plants in the public sector with an initial capacity of 10 lakh tons each at Rourkela in Orissa, Bhilai in Madhya Pradesh and Durgapur in West Bengal during the Second Plan period with the help of West Germany, the USSR and the UK, respectively.Nehru was in Assam from 17 to 20 October 1956.These are the Naga leaders who helped shape the political future of the Naga people and left a legacy for generations to come.On 15 September 1956, six Naga leaders met Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to discuss peace, political status, self-government, and the future of the Naga Hills. At a time of conflict and uncertainty, they advocated a political settlement and sought a future in which the Naga people could preserve their identity, customs, and traditions while determining how their homeland would be governed.Their discussions became part of the historical journey that eventually led to the formation of Nagaland.Remembering the past is not merely about honouring those who came before us; it is about understanding the struggles, decisions, and sacrifices that shaped the future of the Naga people.Their story is part of our history.Their legacy belongs to future generation.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Public Space
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                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/what-happened-when-naga-leaders-met-prime-minister-nehru-in-1956-a-conversation-from-the-archives</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:42:04 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[The Advent of Durga Puja:  A celebration of Faith, Culture and Unity]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/the-advent-of-durga-puja-a-celebration-of-faith-culture-and-unity</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Shibdas GhosePWD Rental Housing Complex, DimapurDurga is an ancient and revered Hindu goddess. Archaeological and textual evidence suggests that the worship of the of the goddess has a long history, although the precise origins of Durga Puja, as celebrated today, remain uncertain. Medieval sculpture and metal images depicting Mahishasuramardini – the form pf Goddess Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura – indicate that her iconography and worship were well established in earlier periods. However, the historical development of Durga Puja in Bengali is complex.Also known as Durgotsava or Sharadotsava, Durg Puja is one of India’s grandest and most eagerly anticipated festivals. It is generally celebrated in September or October, during autumn. As the monsoon gradually gives way to autumn, the weather becomes pleasant, and nature takes on a distinctive charm. Clear skies, occasional drizzle and delicate fragrance of shiuli flowers create an enchanting atmosphere. Autumn becomes a season of color, fragrance, light and life, filled with joy and festivity.Durga Puja commemorates the legendary battle between Goddess Durga and Mahishasura, a powerful buffalo demon whose tyranny threatened the gods and the universe. According to Hindu mythology, the goddess defeated the demon, symbolizing the triumph of righteousness over evil. The festival celebrates Shakti, or divine feminine power, and portrays Durga as ten-armed warrior who restores cosmic order and protects the universe. In Bengali tradition, the festival also celebrates the annual homecoming of Goddess Durga, accompanied by her children Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartika and Ganesha from Mount Kailash to her earthly home.&amp;nbsp;Beyond its religious significance, Druga Puja is a vibrant, multi-day cultural celebration that bring communities together through magnificent pandals, artistic installations, music, traditional rituals and cultural performance. It’s cultural important has received international recognition. In 2021, Durga Puja in Kolkata was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representatives List of intangible Cultural Heritage of humanity.The rituals of Durga Puja include the recitations of mantras and shlokas, devotional chants, aarti and offerings to the goddess. These practices express reverence for Durga and celebrate the divine qualities associated with her including courage, strength, wisdom, compassion and righteousness. For devotes, the festivals is an occasion for spiritual reflection, gratitude and renewed faith. At the same time, its artistic and cultural dimensions make it a celebration that extends beyond religious observance.&amp;nbsp;During Durga Puja, beautifully decorated community pandals – temporary structures housing the idols – become gathering place for people from diverse background. These spaces celebrate art, culture, and shared joy, fostering social harmony and a sense of collective belongings. Families and friends spend their evenings visiting pandals, admiring elaborate decorations, enjoying festival music and traditional drumming, watching dance performance and sampling popular street foods. Beyond India, Durga Puja is also celebrated by Bengali Communities across the world, including in the United Kingdom, the United State, Canada, Australia and Singapore. &amp;nbsp;Durga Puja is far more than a grand festival; it is a celebration of faith, artistic expression cultural heritage and human togetherness.&amp;nbsp;As the rhythmic beats of the dhak fills the air and the festival draws to a close, devotees bid farewell to Maa Druga on Vijayadashami, making the culmination of the main celebrations. &amp;nbsp;The occasion evokes both joy and nostalgia, as people look forward to welcoming the goddess home again the following year.&amp;nbsp;Ultimately, Durga Puja stands as a timeless reminder that courage can overcome adversity, unity can bridge differences, and hope can endure even in difficult times. Through its ensuring traditional and spirit of togetherness, the festival continues to inspire generations, celebrating the triumph of good over evil and the power of faith, love and community.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Public Space
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                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/the-advent-of-durga-puja-a-celebration-of-faith-culture-and-unity</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:38:00 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[‘Sold 1,000 bottles in a year’: Gujarat chemist held for repackaging animal supplement as human liver drops]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sold-1000-bottles-in-a-year-gujarat-chemist-held-for-repackaging-animal-supplement-as-human-liver-drops</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Surat, October 14 (IANS): A medical store owner in Surat has been arrested for allegedly repackaging a veterinary liver supplement into smaller bottles and selling it as a medicine for human use after affixing counterfeit labels of Himalaya Liv.52 Drops, the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Gujarat Police said on Wednesday.The accused, Mohammed Sajid Ibrahim Mulla, 51, who operated Shree Shantinath Medical Store in the Gopipura area of Athwa, was apprehended during a joint raid by the SOG and the Food and Drugs Department on October 13.According to police, the accused allegedly refilled Himalaya Liv.52 Protec Liquid Animal Feed Supplement into smaller bottles and labelled them as Himalaya Liv.52 Drops, a product marketed for human use.He allegedly sold the repackaged liquid to customers as medicine for human treatment.Deputy Commissioner of Police (SOG) Rajdeepsinh Nakum said the team had received information about the alleged activity at the medical store and conducted a joint raid following verification.“The accused was refilling the Liv.52 Liquid Animal Feed product, available in one-litre and five-litre containers, into smaller bottles and selling it as Liv.52 Drops used for the human liver. He had been selling the medicine for the last one year and sold around 1,000 bottles,” Nakum told IANS.During the raid, the team seized a five-litre container of the veterinary supplement, a 60 ml bottle of Liv.52 Drops, empty bottles, caps, stoppers, counterfeit stickers and a mobile phone.The seizure included one five-litre container of Himalaya Liv.52 Protec Liquid Animal Feed Supplement valued at Rs 1,050, one 60 ml bottle of Liv.52 Drops valued at Rs 140 and a mobile phone valued at Rs 30,000.The team also recovered seven empty bottles without labels, seven additional empty bottles with capacities of 60 ml and 100 ml, seven caps, seven stoppers and six stickers bearing the Liv.52 Drops 60 ml label. Officials put the total value of the seized items at Rs 31,195.An offence has been registered against the accused at Athwa police station under Sections 123, 125, 336(2), 336(3), 336(4) and 278 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.Nakum cautioned people against taking medicines without consulting a qualified medical practitioner.“People should not take any medicine, whether Ayurvedic, homoeopathic or allopathic, without a prescription from a medical practitioner,” he said, warning that taking products intended for animals could be harmful to humans.The police have also appealed to anyone who purchased medicines from the store and subsequently experienced adverse health effects to seek medical treatment and contact the police.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sold-1000-bottles-in-a-year-gujarat-chemist-held-for-repackaging-animal-supplement-as-human-liver-drops</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:29:29 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Assam Rifles seizes contraband worth Rs 6.19 crore in Mizoram, six held]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/assam-rifles-seizes-contraband-worth-rs-619-crore-in-mizoram-six-held</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Aizawl, October 14 (IANS): The Assam Rifles, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, has seized highly addictive methamphetamine tablets, foreign-made cigarettes and illegally transported urea fertiliser worth around Rs 6.19 crore in three separate operations in Mizoram and arrested six smugglers and drug peddlers, officials said on Wednesday. &amp;nbsp;A defence spokesman said that, acting on specific intelligence inputs regarding the smuggling of contraband items, the Assam Rifles launched an operation in the Khawlailung area under Serchhip district on Tuesday night.During the operation, the Assam Rifles recovered 226 cases of smuggled foreign-origin cigarettes, with an estimated market value of approximately Rs 5.42 crore. Three suspected smugglers were also apprehended during the operation.The seized cigarettes and the apprehended individuals were subsequently handed over to the Legal Metrology Department in Serchhip for further investigation and necessary legal proceedings.In the second operation, the Assam Rifles, in a joint operation with the Mizoram Police, apprehended two women, including one Myanmar national, and seized 950 grams of methamphetamine, comprising 9,200 tablets, worth approximately Rs 76 lakh at Ramhlun South in Aizawl.The apprehended women, along with the seized narcotics, were formally handed over to Bawngkawn Police Station for further legal proceedings under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.In the third operation, the Assam Rifles, acting on specific intelligence inputs received from its own sources, launched an operation in the Ngopa area of Saitual district.During the operation, the Assam Rifles personnel recovered 109 bags of illegally transported urea fertiliser, valued at approximately Rs 98,000. The operation also resulted in the apprehension of one person and the seizure of a vehicle allegedly used to transport the fertiliser.The recovered fertiliser, the seized vehicle and the apprehended individual were subsequently handed over to the District Agriculture Officer in Saitual for further legal proceedings under the applicable provisions of law.According to an Assam Rifles statement, the seizures reflect the force&#039;s continued commitment, in coordination with civil agencies, to curbing illegal smuggling activities and ensuring the safety and security of the border population in Mizoram.The coordinated operations are part of the ongoing efforts by security forces and law enforcement agencies to check the smuggling of narcotics and other contraband items in the northeastern region, particularly in areas vulnerable to cross-border illegal trade.Mizoram and Manipur have emerged as major drug-trafficking corridors in the Northeast because of their long and porous international borders with Myanmar and their proximity to the Golden Triangle, one of the world&#039;s major illicit narcotics-producing regions.The Golden Triangle, comprising parts of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand, has long been associated with the illicit production and trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The region&#039;s proximity to India&#039;s Northeastern states has posed persistent challenges for security forces and drug enforcement agencies.Six districts of Mizoram and five districts of Manipur share around 910 km of international border with Myanmar, much of which remains unfenced, making the region vulnerable to cross-border smuggling of narcotics, cigarettes, fertiliser and other contraband items.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
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                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/assam-rifles-seizes-contraband-worth-rs-619-crore-in-mizoram-six-held</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:20:56 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[South Korea condemns Houthi attacks on Saudi civilian facilities]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/south-korea-condemns-houthi-attacks-on-saudi-civilian-facilities</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Seoul, October 14 (IANS): South Korea&#039;s foreign ministry on Wednesday condemned recent deadly attacks by Yemen&#039;s Houthi rebels on civilian facilities in Saudi Arabia, calling for an immediate halt to such acts.The attacks included two consecutive strikes on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh last week, further escalating tensions in the Middle East.The first, on Saturday (local time), killed 13 people and injured more than 300, while a second attack the following day killed one person and wounded 11, according to foreign media reports.&quot;We strongly condemn the recent attacks by the Houthi rebels targeting civilian facilities, including the international airport in Riyadh,&quot; the ministry said in a statement, Yonhap News Agency reported.&quot;We reiterate that attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are absolutely unacceptable and once again urge an immediate halt to these hostile acts,&quot; it added.The ministry stressed that peace and stability in the Middle East are important to the international community, including South Korea, in terms of global supply chains and energy security.It also expressed its sincere condolences to the victims and their bereaved families, and voiced solidarity with the Saudi government and people.Saudi Arabia&#039;s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) said that the attack targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on October 11 killed 12 people and injured 309 others, as Yemen’s Houthi group and Saudi Arabia continued exchanging strikes on major airports.&quot;Further to its earlier statement regarding the attack targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Saturday, October 10, 2026, corresponding to 29 Rabi&#039; Al-Thani 1448H, the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) clarifies that the attack resulted in (12) fatalities, including (4) Saudi citizens and residents of the following nationalities: (2) Bangladeshi, (1) American, (1) Egyptian, (1) Jordanian, (1) Syrian, (1) Palestinian and (1) Sudanese,&quot; Saudi Arabia&#039;s GACA posted on X.&quot;The attack also left (309) others injured, including individuals in critical condition. All injured individuals are receiving the necessary medical care at several hospitals. May Allah bestow His mercy upon those who lost their lives and grant the injured a speedy recovery. The attack also caused property damage, the extent of which is currently being assessed,&quot; it added.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/south-korea-condemns-houthi-attacks-on-saudi-civilian-facilities</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:17:46 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[B'desh home to 41.6 million child brides; legal gaps continue to undermine protection: UN review]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/bdesh-home-to-416-million-child-brides-legal-gaps-continue-to-undermine-protection-un-review</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dhaka, October 14 (IANS): Bangladesh is home to around 41.6 million child brides, including 22.3 million who were married before the age of 15, according to a review by United Nations agencies.The review highlights the scale of the child marriage crisis in the South Asian nation with one of the world&#039;s highest prevalence rates.Nearly a decade after its enactment, Bangladesh&#039;s Child Marriage Restraint Act (CMRA), 2017, still faces significant challenges, with the UN agencies&#039; review flagging legal loopholes, inconsistencies, and weak enforcement that undermine the law and calling for comprehensive reforms, local media reported.The review by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations Children&#039;s Fund (UNICEF) identifies two major areas of concern -- flaws in the legal framework and failures in its implementation.The findings come amid persistently high rates of child marriage in Bangladesh, which has the highest prevalence in South Asia and ranks among the top 10 countries worldwide, Bangladesh&#039;s leading newspaper The Daily Star reported.While the CMRA penalises individuals involved in child marriages, it does not declare such marriages void. The law also allows underage marriages in unspecified &quot;special circumstances&quot; and contains provisions that are inconsistent with other legislation and children&#039;s rights.The report noted that child marriage prevention committees often fail to carry out their responsibilities, while officials lack adequate training and logistical assistance. Survivors, meanwhile, struggle to access shelters and legal aid, leaving girls most at risk without adequate protection under the law.Taslima Yasmin, an associate professor in the Department of Law at Dhaka University, acknowledged the weaknesses highlighted in the review, emphasising the need for legal reforms that prioritise social protection for victims alongside punitive measures.&quot;Child marriage is a social custom, and punishment alone cannot end it. We need social measures, policy interventions and community-level initiatives and amend the act accordingly,&quot; she told The Daily Star.According to the UN agencies&#039; review, poverty, poor-quality education, disparities in access to schooling, harmful social and gender norms, and safety concerns continue to drive high child marriage rates in Bangladesh.It further pointed out that entrenched social attitudes, concerns about elopement and economic insecurity, especially in climate-affected and remote regions and urban slums, lead many families to see early marriage as a way to ease financial pressures and secure a better option for their daughters.The review identified Section 19 as another significant weakness in the law. The provision permits marriage before the age of 18 with court approval under &quot;special circumstances&quot;, but it does not define what qualifies, &quot;leaving the term dangerously open to misinterpretation and misuse&quot;.To address these shortcomings, the UNFPA and UNICEF recommend setting 18 as the minimum marriage age for both males and females and scrapping Section 19 altogether.They have further proposed that the existing act take precedence over any contradictory personal laws and customary practices in Bangladesh.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/bdesh-home-to-416-million-child-brides-legal-gaps-continue-to-undermine-protection-un-review</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:16:46 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[ISI’s digital jihad: 5,000 fake accounts target India amid SIR protests]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/isis-digital-jihad-5000-fake-accounts-target-india-amid-sir-protests</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): Pakistan’s digital jihad campaign against India has reportedly intensified, with fake news peddlers stepping up efforts to malign the security forces and the Union government. Over the past two weeks, more than 5,000 social media accounts have reportedly been created in Pakistan with the alleged objective of spreading misinformation and inciting violence.An Intelligence Bureau official said the sudden proliferation of these accounts was directly linked to the ongoing anti-Special Intensive Revision (SIR) protests.The focus of these posts is largely on the actions of law enforcement agencies. Fake claims about police firing, lathi charges, and the use of tear gas shells are being circulated on social media at regular intervals.“The intention is to provoke the youth and push them towards violence. The police would be compelled to act if violence breaks out, potentially triggering a chain reaction across the country,” the official said.A closer examination of these handles by investigating agencies suggests that they are operated by a mix of Indian and Pakistani accounts. While such activity is not new, investigators say the pattern observed this time is markedly different.Another official said that earlier the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) would use hubs largely in Rawalpindi or Islamabad to create fake accounts and generate fake news. This makes finding the trail much easier for investigators.The ISI has this time spread its operations across multiple locations in the country, the official said. The locations identified as sources of fake news originating in Pakistan include Bhimber, Rawalakot, Tarakhal, Sialkot, Kolti, Mendhar and Peshawar, among others.Individuals across these locations are being recruited to create social media accounts, the official said. The ISI then provides them with specific information and directs them to circulate it through these accounts.“The individuals are also instructed to tag users in foreign countries to expand the reach of these posts. By the time Indian fact-checking agencies expose the content as fake, it would have already gained traction and shaped public discourse,” the official said.Another official said that the ISI is well aware that it takes time before fake news is called out.Further, the number of people who follow fact-checkers is minimal compared with those who consume the fake news. While the people in cities and tier-1 or 2 cities are more adept when it comes to fact-checking the news, the same cannot be said about those living in the smaller towns and villages, the official said.It takes these people days before they get to know what the real information is, and by that time word-of-mouth takes place, and the damage is already done.The ISI is also taking advantage of the fact that there are many youth who are part of these protests. Each one of them is well-versed when it comes to consuming news through their mobile phones.At the peak of a protest, if such fake news crops up, these youth tend to believe it immediately. In the heat of the moment, they do not bother checking whether the information is right or not, and eventually it spreads like wildfire.For instance, when a protest is taking place in New Delhi, the fake news would emerge in a completely different place. This works well for these handles, as people in other cities do not know exactly what is going on where the protests are happening.Instantly, they jump to the support of the protesters and eventually another chaos unfolds in that place, officials say.The most recent example of fake news being peddled amid the ongoing protests is about an injury to the leader of the opposition and Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi. Some handles posted that the Delhi police have opened fire and Rahul Gandhi has been injured.Such news can spread like wildfire, and the aim was to rile up Congress supporters in other places so that they too would start protesting or indulge in violence.The ISI has not restricted the creation of handles to Pakistanis alone. As part of their Operation Ground Wire, they have even targeted Indians. Many Indians have been paid by the ISI to create content against the Indian state.This is aimed at shifting the narrative and defaming the Indian state. This constant shift in tactics, especially at such a volatile time, has created another headache for the Indian agencies.The Intelligence Bureau and state police are constantly monitoring such accounts and immediately reporting them. It takes time to find these handles and report them, and by the time it happens, the damage is already done.Adding to the problem is also the scale at which this operation is being carried out. It is not just a couple of accounts that we are talking about. It runs into thousands of accounts, an official said.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/isis-digital-jihad-5000-fake-accounts-target-india-amid-sir-protests</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:13:05 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[The Chainsmokers begin new chapter as independent artists after 11 years]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/the-chainsmokers-begin-new-chapter-as-independent-artists-after-11-years</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 14 (IANS): Music duo The Chainsmokers, comprising Alex Pall and Drew Taggart, have announced that they are stepping into a new chapter as independent artists after 11 years.Taking to Instagram, the duo shared three photos and thanked their team for more than a decade of hard work and success.“After 11 amazing years, we are now independent artists. We are eternally grateful to our incredible team at Columbia/Distruptor for a decade plus of hard work that has resulted in unimaginable success,” The Chainsmokers wrote.They said they are excited to experiment with their upcoming music releases and have fun with their next phase.“We have no idea what to expect for our next chapter but we are extremely excited to have fun and experiment with all our new music releases. Thank you for sticking with us fam… we know we owe you some records!”The Chainsmokers started out by releasing remixes of songs by indie artists. They achieved a breakthrough with their 2014 song &quot;#Selfie&quot;, which became a top-twenty single in several countries.They have won a Grammy Award, two American Music Awards, seven Billboard Music Awards and nine iHeartRadio Music Awards.Their debut EP, Bouquet, was released in October 2015 and featured the single &quot;Roses&quot;, which reached the top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100. &quot;Don&#039;t Let Me Down&quot; became their first top-five single on the Billboard chart and won the Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording at the 59th awards ceremony.Their single &quot;Closer&quot;, featuring American singer-songwriter Halsey, became their first number-one single on the Billboard chart.The duo&#039;s second EP, Collage, was released in November 2016. Their debut studio album, Memories...Do Not Open, was released in April 2017 was with two hit singles “Paris&quot; and &quot;Something Just Like This&quot;.Their second album, Sick Boy and third was World War Joy. So Far So Good, their fourth studio album, was released in 2022. Their fifth studio album, Summertime Friends followed in October 2023. In 2024, the duo released their third EP, No Hard Feelings.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/the-chainsmokers-begin-new-chapter-as-independent-artists-after-11-years</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:08:18 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NPCI arm rolls out Tatkal NPS, allows opening pension account via UPI]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/npci-arm-rolls-out-tatkal-nps-allows-opening-pension-account-via-upi</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): NPCI BHIM Services Limited (NBSL) -- a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) -- on Wednesday said that &#039;Tatkal NPS&#039; is now available on the BHIM Payments App.Introduced by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), Tatkal NPS enables users to open a National Pension System (NPS) account through the app in three steps, without a branch visit or submission of fresh paperwork.However, the onboarding process uses existing bank-verified KYC. Users need to enter their date of birth, select their eligible bank account and make their first NPS contribution through UPI.Moreover, Tatkal NPS is currently available on BHIM App for banking customers of State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, IndusInd Bank and Bank of Baroda.Additional banks are expected to be added subsequently, according to NPCI BHIM Services Limited.Lalitha Nataraj, Managing Director and CEO, NBSL said, &quot;UPI has already become a daily financial behaviour for hundreds of millions of Indians. The next opportunity is to improve access to products such as NPS. Tatkal NPS on BHIM addresses the first barrier, getting started, by allowing eligible users to open an NPS account directly through a UPI app. Tatkal NPS now enables eligible users to open an NPS account through the app, extending BHIM&#039;s role from facilitating contributions to supporting NPS onboarding.&quot;NPS is a low-cost pension scheme regulated by PFRDA and contributions are invested in market-linked funds managed by regulated pension fund managers with tax benefits available as applicable.In addition, Tatkal NPS supports PFRDA&#039;s vision of a pensioned society where every citizen can work towards a secure income in old age.PFRDA Chairperson S. Ramann said that UPI transformed the way India pays; Tatkal NPS can transform the way India prepares for retirement.&quot;With just three clicks, any eligible citizen can open a pension account through our partnership with NPCI, banks and UPI apps. Our mantra is simple: Grow rich before you grow old. And we want this message to reach every street, every village and every Indian,&quot; adds Ramann.Additionally, eligible Indian citizens between 18 and 85 years can open an NPS account through Tatkal NPS on the BHIM Payments App with the minimum initial contribution of Rs 250.While subsequent contributions can be made starting from Rs 10, subject to applicable NPS requirements.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/npci-arm-rolls-out-tatkal-nps-allows-opening-pension-account-via-upi</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:04:50 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Accountants name AI as top ethical challenge: Report]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/accountants-name-ai-as-top-ethical-challenge-report</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): Ahead of Global Ethics Day on October 21, nearly 61 per cent of professional accountants now ranked use of artificial intelligence as the leading ethical challenge, up from 32 per cent in 2024, a statement said on Wednesday.The statement from Association of Chartered Certified Accountants said ethical leadership (43 per cent) and ethical culture (39 per cent) remain in respondents’ top three ethical challenges.The report drew 1,178 responses from finance and accountancy professionals across 135 countries and included roundtable discussions to add qualitative depth.Nearly 50 per cent of respondents agreed that ethical challenges have become more difficult to resolve in the last three years, and 53 per cent report witnessing unethical behaviour in that period.It indicated that the profession remains strongly grounded in the fundamental principles but is operating in conditions that are becoming more pressured, complex and difficult to navigate in practice.&quot;As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in financial decision-making, ensuring its responsible use while upholding professional ethics is emerging as a critical priority for the accountancy profession,&quot; said Sundeep Jakhar, Head of Public Affairs – India at ACCA.The report highlighted that AI can enhance the quality and efficiency of work, but its use must be underpinned by human judgement, transparency and clear accountability.Nearly 89 per cent agreed that ethical capability in the profession remains strong – but it depends on continuous professional development. Trust in the profession is grounded in strong ethical standards (46 per cent), transparency (38 per cent), and independence (36 per cent).Enabling ethical behaviour in practice is a shared responsibility – with ethical culture and leadership acting as core conditions for ethical action, the report noted.“Ultimately, trust in the profession will depend not just on technological capability, but on how consistently ethical principles are applied in practice,” Jakhar said.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/accountants-name-ai-as-top-ethical-challenge-report</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 17:00:58 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[DGCA bans specific powerbank model on flights after in-flight fire incidents]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/dgca-bans-specific-powerbank-model-on-flights-after-in-flight-fire-incidents</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS): The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has prohibited passengers and airlines from carrying or transporting the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 powerbank on all flights operating to, from and within India following a fire incident involving the device aboard an IndiGo aircraft.The aviation regulator issued the directive after an IndiGo flight travelling from Delhi to Chennai was diverted to Hyderabad on Sunday following a fire linked to the powerbank.In response, DGCA chief Vir Vikram Yadav directed airlines to ensure that the specific powerbank model is neither carried by passengers nor transported as cargo on board aircraft.Under the order, airlines have been instructed to identify the affected device, prevent it from being brought on flights and communicate the safety advisory to passengers through appropriate channels.The restriction applies only to the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 model and does not constitute a blanket ban on all powerbanks. Passengers have been advised to verify the model number of their portable batteries before travelling and comply with airline guidelines. Those owning the affected device have been told not to carry it on flights operating within or to and from India.The latest action follows a broader tightening of safety norms governing lithium-ion batteries and powerbanks. Under DGCA&#039;s existing dangerous goods guidelines, powerbanks and spare batteries are permitted only in hand baggage and cannot be stored in overhead compartments.The regulator has also barred passengers from using powerbanks to charge phones or other electronic devices during flights, including through aircraft seat power outlets.Airlines have been directed to educate passengers about the rules, train cabin crew to respond to battery-related incidents and report any lithium battery fires or malfunctions to the regulator.Passengers are required to immediately notify cabin crew if an electronic device overheats, emits smoke or releases an unusual odour during a flight.Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in portable electronic devices but can pose a fire risk if damaged, defective, overcharged or improperly handled.Such incidents are considered particularly hazardous on aircraft, where smoke can spread rapidly and access to the affected device may be limited.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/dgca-bans-specific-powerbank-model-on-flights-after-in-flight-fire-incidents</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 16:58:57 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[India must build critical materials ecosystem for chip industry: Vaishnaw]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/india-must-build-critical-materials-ecosystem-for-chip-industry-vaishnaw</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS) India&#039;s dependence on critical materials remains one of the biggest vulnerabilities in its quest for technological sovereignty, Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Wednesday.Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum here, the minister highlighted the need to rapidly build domestic capabilities in materials essential for semiconductors and other advanced technologies.He said the concentration of global supply chains for critical materials in a limited number of countries posed a significant challenge to India&#039;s ambitions of becoming a trusted technology and manufacturing hub.Moreover, he identified chemicals, gases, substrates and other semiconductor inputs as key areas where India must strengthen domestic expertise and production capabilities.Countries that currently dominate material ecosystems have spent decades building such capacities, but India does not have the luxury of following a similar timeline and must accelerate efforts to develop expertise in manufacturing, processing, storage and handling of critical materials, according to him.Vaishnaw further said India&#039;s semiconductor mission is evolving beyond chip fabrication and assembly toward building a complete ecosystem covering materials, chemicals, gases and substrates.He noted that these areas are receiving greater attention under the second phase of the country&#039;s semiconductor programme.The minister said the government&#039;s approach focuses on progressing systematically from assembling finished products to manufacturing modules, components, materials and eventually capital equipment, adding that sustainable manufacturing growth requires the development of a robust ecosystem.He also clarified that India&#039;s pursuit of technological sovereignty was not intended to eliminate dependence on other countries but to address strategic vulnerabilities and build resilience in critical areas.“When we look at tech sovereignty, we have to look at it in a very mature and very complex way. We are thinking more about strategic dependencies and resilience. Which are the products and segments in which we must have manufacturing, design and complete product development capabilities within our country? Which are the parts of the value chain where we can depend on other countries? Technology is always a global value chain,&quot; says Vaishnaw.“In whichever segment we want to play or whichever segment we are entering, we want to be a trusted partner. For example, in the 28-nanometre to 90-nanometre range, the legacy nodes, the production of a million-dollar machine can stop because of a one-dollar chip. So, can we position ourselves as a country that is trusted in design, manufacturing and the complete evaluation of the final product? That is how we look at it,” he added.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/india-must-build-critical-materials-ecosystem-for-chip-industry-vaishnaw</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:38:34 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Tom Cruise: I don't make movies for money]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/tom-cruise-i-dont-make-movies-for-money</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 14 (IANS) Hollywood star Tom Cruise has said that his passion for filmmaking goes beyond monetary gains, adding that his interest in people, life and art drives him to make movies.The actor, who was in Tokyo, Japan, to present his upcoming film ‘Digger’ alongside filmmaker Alejandro Inarritu, took to Instagram to thank the people of Japan for making his visit special and described the experience as a dream come true.Cruise shared a video featuring a voice-over that said: “As a child, I dreamed of seeing the world. And I&#039;ll never forget the first time I came to this country. And you can&#039;t help but fall in lovewith the culture, the art, the history.”He added: “And to have this kind of day, I can&#039;t believe. I am able to live my dream to make movies for you. Very special, I love this. I don&#039;t make movies for money. I do it because I&#039;m interested. I&#039;m interested in people, in life, in art.”In the voiceover the actor said that he couldn’t wait to bring this film to Japan.Inarritu was heard saying: “I was lucky to have the best actor in the world, the best cast in the world, in a studio that bet on this very risky film.”Cruise concluded: “I want to make movies that hopefully last. The world changes and life changes, but storytelling is storytelling. I love being here, I will miss it. And I want to thank you all so much for coming out to share this.”The caption section: “Thank you to the wonderful people of Japan for making this visit, and every visit to this incredible country, so special!”The Cruise stars as Digger Rockwell. While the exact plot is still under wraps, Warner Bros. provided a logline describing Cruise’s character as “the most powerful man in the world” who “embarks on a frantic mission to prove that he is humanity’s savior before the disaster he’s unleashed destroys everything,” reports variety.com.The cast also includes Sandra Hüller, John Goodman, Michael Stuhlbarg, Jesse Plemons, Sophie Wilde, Riz Ahmed and Emma D’Arcy. “Digger” is Cruise’s first film since signing a deal to develop and produce theatrical films with Warner Bros. Discovery in January. His last project with the studio was “Edge of Tomorrow” a decade ago.“Digger,” which shot in the U.K. for six months, marks Iñárritu’s first English-language film since “The Revenant.” The film will be produced and directed by Inarritu, with a script he co-wrote in 2023 with “Birdman” co-writers Nicolas Giacobone and Alexander Dinelaris, along with Sabina Berman. “Digger” is produced by Cruise and Iñárritu.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/tom-cruise-i-dont-make-movies-for-money</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:36:22 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Hyundai Motor Group to invest $15.5 billion in India through 2032]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/hyundai-motor-group-to-invest-155-billion-in-india-through-2032</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Seoul/New Delhi, October 14 (IANS) Hyundai Motor Group said on Wednesday it will invest $15.5 billion in India through 2032, underscoring the country&#039;s importance to its global growth strategy.The group&#039;s Executive Chair Euisun Chung announced the investment during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Tuesday, the group said.&quot;India is a key strategic market for Hyundai Motor Group&#039;s future growth, expansion into emerging markets and next-generation automotive innovation. The investment will be made over seven years starting this year,&quot; Chung said.The investment will go toward expanding manufacturing capacity, developing research and development (R&amp;D) infrastructure, fostering local suppliers to increase parts localisation, and advancing future technologies, reports Yonhap news agency.To implement the investment plan, the group plans to establish a dedicated investment entity in India.With a population of 1.47 billion, India is the world&#039;s third-largest automobile market after China and the United States.Automakers seeking to compete in India need local production facilities, as import tariffs can reach 70 percent to 110 percent.Hyundai Motor Co. operates two plants in Chennai and another in Pune, while its smaller affiliate Kia Corp. operates a plant in Anantapur. The facilities have a combined annual production capacity of 1.4 million vehicles, which is expected to increase with further investment.Hyundai and Kia sold a combined 852,164 vehicles in India last year, accounting for 18.7 percent of the country&#039;s passenger vehicle market and ranking second behind Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.Hyundai Motor&#039;s cumulative vehicle sales in India are expected to top 10 million this year, nearly three decades after the South Korean automaker began local sales.The company had sold 9.88 million vehicles in India through the third quarter of this year, having begun local production with the Santro minicar at its Chennai plant in 1998, according to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).At the current pace, Hyundai&#039;s cumulative sales in India are expected to surpass the 10 million mark by the end of this year.Last year, the company sold 398,937 SUVs in India, accounting for about 70 per cent of its total sales in the country.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/hyundai-motor-group-to-invest-155-billion-in-india-through-2032</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:12:15 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Neha Swami recalls Arjun Bijlani’s ‘say yes right now’ proposal, says he didn’t give her even a sec to think]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/neha-swami-recalls-arjun-bijlanis-say-yes-right-now-proposal-says-he-didnt-give-her-even-a-sec-to-think</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 14 (IANS) Actor Arjun Bijlani’s wife Neha Swami recently opened up about her love story with her actor husband on Puja Banerjee’s podcast.She recalled how the actor asked her to be his girlfriend before he had even begun his acting career.Sharing details of their first meeting and the beginning of their relationship, Neha revealed how Arjun made a sweet promise that eventually won her over.Recalling their first encounter, Neha said she had come to Mumbai for a holiday and was staying at her aunt’s house. She met Arjun about an hour or two before she was due to get her visa. At the time, he had not started his acting career. When they met again, he asked her where she was from and what she did. Neha told him that she had come to visit her aunt and was not doing anything professionally.Neha recalled that Arjun later got her phone number through a friend and called her with a rather direct proposal. “He says, I want to be your boyfriend. You have to say yes right now,” she recalled.Taken aback by his insistence, Neha asked him what he did. Arjun replied that he was not doing anything at the time but added, “But if you say yes, I will work for you. I&#039;ll do everything for you.”Neha said the sweetness of his words eventually convinced her to agree. However, she added that Arjun was determined to make things official immediately.When she asked him to give her a second to think, he insisted that she had to answer then and there. Once she agreed, he declared that they were now girlfriend and boyfriend and told her, “From now on, you&#039;ll call me baby.”Arjun, who appeared in a video on the podcast, meanwhile, spoke warmly about his wife and their enduring relationship. Reflecting on their 22 years together, the actor said, “We have been together for 22 years. And I think she&#039;s an amazing wife.”He further praised Neha for standing by him during the early days of his career, saying, “The most amazing wife for supporting me, being with me when I was a nobody. And she still loves me as much as she did 22 years ago.”For the uninitiated, Arjun and Neha tied the knot in May 2013 after dating for many years. The couple welcomed their son, Ayaan, in January 2015. Over the years, they have often spoken about their relationship and the support they have given each other through different phases of life.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/neha-swami-recalls-arjun-bijlanis-say-yes-right-now-proposal-says-he-didnt-give-her-even-a-sec-to-think</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:11:05 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Shehnaaz Gill makes Rohit Sharma recreate her iconic ‘Tuada Kutta Tommy’ dialogue]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/shehnaaz-gill-makes-rohit-sharma-recreate-her-iconic-tuada-kutta-tommy-dialogue</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 14 (IANS) Actress-Singer Shehnaaz Gill got cricketer-host Rohit Sharma to recreate her viral ‘Tuada Kutta Tommy, Sada Kutta Kutta’ dialogue on the sets of the game show Family Full House with Rohit Sharma.In a fun promo shared by the channel host from the show, Shehnaaz asked Rohit to repeat one of her famous dialogues. The cricketer readily agreed and followed her lead, repeating each line word-for-word.Shehnaaz began with, “Kya karoon main mar jaaoon?” to which Rohit repeated the line. She then followed it up with “Meri koi feeling nahi hai?”, “Sada kutta kutta...” and finally, “Tuada kutta Tommy!”, with Rohit echoing each phrase.The exchange left the whole studio audience and fellow guests, including singer Mika Singh and comedy duo Chinki-Minki, in splits.For the uninitiated, the dialogue became a viral sensation after Shehnaaz delivered it on the reality show, Bigg Boss during an ugly fight with a few of her co-contestants in the season.The phrase “Tuada kutta Tommy, sada kutta kutta” went on to become a popular internet meme.For the uninitiated, Shehnaaz Gill rose to nationwide fame with her participation in ‘Bigg Boss 13’, where her bubbly nature, infectious energy, Punjabi accent and unfiltered personality made her a fan favourite.Her bond with late actor Sidharth Shukla on the reality show also became a major talking point. Their chemistry earned them a dedicated fan following.Often fondly referred to as the ‘Katrina Kaif of Punjab’, Shehnaaz won audiences over with her playful demeanour and candid conversations.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/shehnaaz-gill-makes-rohit-sharma-recreate-her-iconic-tuada-kutta-tommy-dialogue</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:07:45 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Champions League: Arsenal score three goals in seven minutes to beat Lille]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/champions-league-arsenal-score-three-goals-in-seven-minutes-to-beat-lille</link>
                <description><![CDATA[London, October 14 (IANS) Three goals in seven devastating second-half minutes did the damage as we made it two wins from two in this season’s Champions League with victory over Lille.After a goalless first half, the gunners finally saw their dominance reflected on the scoreboard in the second half, with Jurrien Timber scoring a fine individual goal to break the resistance at 64 minutes and Ebere Eze finishing off a quick counterattack three minutes later.Then Bukayo Saka became our second-highest European goalscorer of all time as he coolly netted minutes after coming off the bench, ensuring we made it 14 successive victories in the league phase of the competition, closing in on next week’s opponents Bayern Munich’s record of 17.A goalless first half flattered the French side, and after the restart Arsenal cranked up the pressure further to try and rectify that. In the opening 15 minutes of the second half, Gunners suffocated Lille, not allowing them out of their half, and eventually their resistance broke.On 64 minutes, Noni Madueke found Timber inside the box, who produced a brilliant touch to drag the ball into space, and then calmly lifted the ball over Ozer to score in style.Then Kai Havertz, Martin Odegaard and Saka entered the fray, and within 90 seconds Arsenal doubled their lead. Again, Timber did the damage by pressing high and winning possession, and after Odegaard found Guimaraes, his pass set Saka up to centre for Eze to finish from just inside the area.And at the 71st minute, the trio of subs all combined to allow Saka to put the game to bed after a devastating period of play. Odegaard played a one-two with the winger on the edge of the box before finding Havertz, and he returned the ball to Saka.With time to take a touch, he composed himself before sliding into the bottom corner. That was his 19th European goal for us - only Thierry Henry has more.With the result in the bag, another great French striker received some N5 adulation when 40-year-old Olivier Giroud was introduced as a sub and given a standing ovation.However, he couldn’t help improving his side’s attacking threat, as Raya celebrated equalling David Seaman’s goalkeeping Champions League appearance record of 38 games with another clean sheet, setting Arsenal up perfectly for our heavyweight fixture in Munich next week.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/champions-league-arsenal-score-three-goals-in-seven-minutes-to-beat-lille</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 10:06:35 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[CJP's Saurav Das, Ranka, Shinde booked for trespassing at Jantar Mantar]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/cjps-saurav-das-ranka-shinde-booked-for-trespassing-at-jantar-mantar</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS) Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) leaders Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka and Ajinkya Shinde have been arrested, said the CJP&#039;s legal affairs head Ratna Singh on Wednesday, after the three tried to trespass at Jantar Mantar.Singh said that Das, Ranka and Shinde were booked for &quot;trespass, bond violation, obstruction of public official&#039;s duty, etc&quot;.&quot;They’ll be produced before the SCM Court in the morning. A possibility of Judicial Custody (JC) in the Tihar Jail is possible,&quot; Ratna Singh posted on X.She further claimed that the leaders were not allowed to meet their lawyers till late at night.&quot;They were brought to Parliament Street PS at 3 a.m. in a private van. Despite these illegal actions, their spirits are high,&quot; she added.The three CJP leaders were detained on Tuesday morning for crossing police barricades and entering Jantar Mantar, which has been de-notified as the designated protest site.They were heading to protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Review (SIR) of electoral rolls. They were seen raising slogans against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, while trying to breach the police barricades.Following this, all three were detained.On October 12, Jantar Mantar was de-notified as the &quot;designated&quot; protesting site, Delhi Police said. New guidelines for protests were issued under Delhi Police Standing Order No. L&amp;O/48/2026.According to the Delhi Police, the decision was taken based on the recommendations of a Home Ministry committee.&quot;Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, had constituted a Committee to examine alternative proper venues for citizens&#039; right for organising protest/demonstrations in place of the existing &#039;designated site&#039;,&quot; read the official statement.&quot;Based on the Committee&#039;s recommendations, Jantar Mantar as a protest venue has been de-notified,&quot; it further read.Three new locations in Delhi -- Ramlila Ground, Burari Ground and East Delhi&#039;s CBD Ground -- have been designated for protests.&quot;Detailed and revised SOP for organising protest/demonstrations at these three venues will be issued separately. This is in partial modification of earlier Standing Order No. L&amp;O/48/22 dated 28.04.2022,&quot; the statement read.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/cjps-saurav-das-ranka-shinde-booked-for-trespassing-at-jantar-mantar</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 09:04:49 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Bihar boat accident: President Murmu offers condolences to bereaved families]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/bihar-boat-accident-president-murmu-offers-condolences-to-bereaved-families</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday expressed her deepest condolences to the grief-stricken families of the children who died after a boat carrying passengers capsized in the Ganga River in Bihar’s Vaishali district.Taking to social media platform X, President Murmu said: “The news of the deaths of children in the boat accident that occurred in Vaishali district of Bihar is extremely heartbreaking. I express my deepest condolences to the grief-stricken families. I pray for the swift recovery of those injured in this accident.”The incident occurred on Tuesday near Rampur Shyamchand village under the Raghopur police station area while the passengers were reportedly travelling to attend a feast.At least 11 people, including eight children, died after a boat carrying passengers capsized in the Ganga River.Around half a dozen people were also reported injured, while rescue teams continued searching the river for anyone who might still be missing.The exact number of people on board and the final casualty count are subject to official confirmation.According to preliminary information, between 15 and 20 people were aboard the boat when it overturned in the river.The accident triggered panic, prompting local residents and the administration to launch rescue efforts.Several passengers were rescued, and the injured were taken for medical treatment.District police officials and a team of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were dispatched to the site to assist with the operation.Vaishali District Magistrate Varsha Singh said most of the deceased were minors.Earlier, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary also expressed grief over the deaths, describing the incident as tragic and heartbreaking. He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for peace for the deceased.The state government has announced ex-gratia assistance of Rs 4 lakh for the family of each deceased person.Leader of the Opposition, Tejashwi Yadav, expressed sorrow over the tragedy in a social media post, describing it as an unfortunate incident.Yadav said he had spoken with local residents, administrative officials and other authorities, urging them to expedite rescue operations and ensure prompt medical treatment for the injured.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/bihar-boat-accident-president-murmu-offers-condolences-to-bereaved-families</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 09:02:56 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Amitabh Bachchan recites ‘Agneepath’ dialogue in Punjabi and Gujarati’, leaves Mika Singh & Falguni Pathak surprised]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/amitabh-bachchan-recites-agneepath-dialogue-in-punjabi-and-gujarati-leaves-mika-singh-falguni-pathak-surprised</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 14 (IANS) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan surprised audiences on an episode of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ by reciting the iconic dialogue from his film ‘Agneepath’ in fluent Punjabi and Gujarati.The moment unfolded when singers Mika Singh and Falguni Pathak appeared on the show, with both singers expressing their excitement at hearing the legendary actor deliver the famous lines in different languages.During the episode, Mika Singh requested Amitabh to recite the iconic dialogue from Agneepath in Punjabi. The veteran actor obliged and delivered the lines with remarkable fluency, leaving the audience impressed with his command over the language.Falguni Pathak, popularly known as the Garba Queen, was equally thrilled by the performance and requested Amitabh to recite the same dialogue in Gujarati.Amitabh once again obliged, delivering the lines in Gujarati and adding another memorable moment to the episode.The dialogue, “Vijay Dinanath Chauhan…,” is among the most recognisable lines from Agneepath.Released in 1990, Agneepath was directed by Mukul S. Anand and featured Amitabh Bachchan as Vijay Deenanath Chauhan. The film also starred Mithun Chakraborty, Madhavi, Neelam Kothari, Danny Denzongpa and Rohini Hattangadi in pivotal roles.Along with being an actor, Amitabh Bachchan is also celebrated for his exceptional command over Hindi and English.The actor was born in Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, and grew up in a household deeply connected to Hindi literature.His father, the celebrated poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, was one of the most influential voices in modern Hindi poetry, best known for his iconic work Madhushala.Amitabh Bachchan, who turned 84 on October 11, received an outpouring of birthday wishes from members of the film industry, well-wishers and fans across the world.Despite his age, the veteran actor continues to maintain a demanding work schedule, working around the clock. He also keeps fans updated on his life, thoughts and experiences through his personal blogs.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/amitabh-bachchan-recites-agneepath-dialogue-in-punjabi-and-gujarati-leaves-mika-singh-falguni-pathak-surprised</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 09:01:52 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[‘May Maa Kushmanda’s boundless energy give new hope, happiness’: PM Modi extends greetings on Navratri Day-4]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/may-maa-kushmandas-boundless-energy-give-new-hope-happiness-pm-modi-extends-greetings-on-navratri-day-4</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 14 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended greetings to the people on the fourth day of Sharad Navratri, offering prayers to Maa Kushmanda and wishing new hope, happiness, prosperity and good health for all.Taking to social media platform X, the Prime Minister said, “On the occasion of Navratri, today is the prescribed worship of Devi Mata’s fourth form, Maa Kushmanda. May her boundless energy infuse new hope, happiness, prosperity, and good health into the lives of all our countrymen.”PM Modi also shared a YouTube link to ‘Vijayavadalo Velisina Durgamma, Durga Devi Devotional Songs Telangana Folks’, featuring devotional songs dedicated to the Goddess.The Prime Minister also shared a devotional prayer dedicated to the Divine Mother, which reads: “O mother Narayani! You are the most auspicious of all that is blessed. You are the embodiment of divine grace and benevolence, and the fulfiller of all righteous aspirations and cherished desires. You are the protector of those who seek refuge in you, the three-eyed goddess, and the fair-complexioned mother Gauri, O divine mother of the universe, I offer my reverential salutations to you.” (Loosely translated from Sanskrit)Earlier in the day, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also extended greetings on the fourth day of Sharad Navratri.Taking to X, CM Yogi offered prayers to Maa Kushmanda, the fourth form of Goddess Durga, and sought her blessings for devotees.“Repeated salutations at the feet of Maa Bhagavati’s fourth form, Maa Kushmanda. May Mother’s grace infuse health, happiness, prosperity, energy, and positivity into the lives of all devotees—this is the prayer. Jai Ma Kushmanda,” he posted in Hindi.Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also offered prayers to the Goddess, describing Maa Kushmanda as the primordial creative force of the universe and highlighting her significance in sustaining life, energy and consciousness.In her message on X, she wrote, “On the sacred fourth day of Navratri, humble salutations at the lotus feet of the primordial creative force of the universe, the Divine Maa Kushmanda. With whose gentle smile the cosmos was created, by whose divine radiance the entire animate and inanimate world is illuminated, She, Maa Kushmanda, is the foundation of life, energy, and consciousness in all creation. May the grace of the Maa of the Universe bring auspiciousness everywhere, and welfare to all.”On the fourth day of Sharad Navratri, devotees worship Maa Kushmanda, the fourth manifestation of Goddess Durga, who is associated with creative energy, warmth and new beginnings.According to Hindu tradition, Maa Kushmanda created the universe with her divine smile, bringing light and energy to the cosmos. Devotees worship her during Navratri to seek blessings for good health, prosperity, strength and happiness.The nine-day festival of Sharad Navratri is dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Each day holds religious significance, with devotees offering prayers and observing various rituals to seek the blessings of the divine feminine power.The festival will culminate in Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, which symbolises the victory of good over evil.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/may-maa-kushmandas-boundless-energy-give-new-hope-happiness-pm-modi-extends-greetings-on-navratri-day-4</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 09:00:42 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Trump promises $5,000 to every adult if Republicans win Congress]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/trump-promises-5000-to-every-adult-if-republicans-win-congress</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Washington, October 14 (IANS) US President Donald Trump promised every adult American citizen $5,000 if Republicans keep control of both chambers of Congress, telling a midterm rally in Wasilla, Alaska, that tariff revenue would pay for it.&quot;If Republicans win the House of Representatives and the Senate, I&#039;m going to give all adult citizens in the United States $5,000. And only Republicans can do that because the Democrats can&#039;t, because we&#039;re taking in massive amounts of money,&quot; Trump said, adding that the money came from tariffs.He said &quot;the Trump dividend that you get must be spent in the United States of America&quot;. He repeated the pledge at the end of the speech.Trump did not say how the payments would be made, when, or what they would cost. Any such payout would need Congress to approve it.&quot;If the Democrats win, you will have a 1929 style economic depression,&quot; he said.The President was campaigning for Republican Senator Dan Sullivan three weeks before the November 3 elections. He called Democrat Mary Peltola &quot;no show Mary&quot;. Early voting begins on October 19.On Iran, Trump said Tehran &quot;will not have a nuclear weapon&quot; and that the war &quot;is going to end very soon and when it does, your prices are going to come tumbling down&quot;.&quot;We opened the Straits,&quot; he said. &quot;We&#039;ve been taking more oil out of the Straits now than we did before the war started, believe it or not. We control the Straits.&quot;&quot;Wait till you see what we do to Iran, because we sort of had it, you know, we&#039;ve had it,&quot; he said, without giving details.On stage, Trump granted a full pardon to Mark Spurlock and signed pardons for two Anchorage diesel mechanics, Zachary Schubach and Patrick Fleming, who had been convicted of Clean Air Act violations for modifying vehicle emissions controls.&quot;They want to put them in jail for ten years because they fixed an engine,&quot; Trump said.Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr told the rally the Commission &quot;will vote this month to invest an additional $162 million to expand high speed internet in Alaska&quot;.Trump attacked Canada, saying &quot;they have ripped us off for years but no longer&quot;, and accused Democrats of allowing &quot;25 million people to pour across our borders&quot;. He did not back up the figure.He spoke at the Curtis D. Menard Memorial Sports Center. His two-day trip also takes him to Nevada, Arizona and Montana.Fuel prices have become a central issue in the campaign, and Gulf tensions keep pressure on oil markets that India watches closely.]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/trump-promises-5000-to-every-adult-if-republicans-win-congress</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 08:59:26 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Trump saved my life, says US veteran held in Myanmar]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/trump-saved-my-life-says-us-veteran-held-in-myanmar</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Washington, October 14 (IANS) A former US Marine who spent 97 days in detention in Myanmar has credited President Donald Trump with securing his freedom, while accusing the US State Department and American diplomats of failing to help him during his ordeal.Adam Castillo, an American businessman and Afghanistan war veteran who had lived in Myanmar for nearly 13 years, said he was detained following an internal dispute at the American Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar, where he had previously served as president of the board.&quot;I mean, I owe my life to President Trump, honestly. I mean, if it wasn&#039;t for him, I would not be here today,&quot; Castillo told IANS in an exclusive interview following his release.Castillo said he was detained at Yangon International Airport on June 11 and subsequently spent 14 days in a police interrogation facility before being transferred to the country&#039;s notorious Insein Prison, where he remained for another 83 days.He insisted that he was never formally sentenced or convicted of any offence.&quot;Yeah, so I wasn&#039;t sentenced, actually. I was just detained,&quot; he told IANS.Castillo said the dispute arose after allegations of financial misconduct were made against him following his departure from the chamber&#039;s leadership.According to him, what began as an internal organisational disagreement eventually became a police investigation and then an international diplomatic issue requiring intervention from Washington.He credited Vice President JD Vance, religious leaders and private advocates with helping secure his release.&quot;There&#039;s many other people to thank. I think, Vice President J.D. Vance in his office, the Faith Council from Paula White to Cardinal Dolan,&quot; he said.He also acknowledged the assistance of Global Reach, an organisation that advocates for detained Americans and their families.Castillo was sharply critical of the State Department, alleging that US diplomats in Myanmar failed to act decisively despite knowing about his detention.&quot;The State Department did nothing,&quot; he said during a separate press conference in Washington.He alleged that embassy officials were reluctant to intervene and that meaningful diplomatic efforts began only after the White House became involved.During his detention, he said, American consular officials visited him four times, including three visits while he was in prison.Castillo said his family and supporters struggled to obtain meaningful assistance from the embassy.&quot;The State Department should be ashamed of themselves,&quot; he told IANS.His allegations could not be independently verified from the material provided, which contains no response from the State Department or the US Embassy in Myanmar.Despite his detention, Castillo offered a relatively favourable assessment of some conditions inside Insein Prison, saying facilities had improved over the years.He credited prison authorities and the International Committee of the Red Cross with efforts to improve sanitation and living conditions.&quot;Now in terms of mistreatment or abuse or any sort of torture, I was not around any of that and I didn&#039;t see any of that,&quot; he said.Castillo had established a security business in Myanmar after leaving military service. His company provided guarding and security-related services and prepared reports tracking developments in the country&#039;s armed conflict.]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/trump-saved-my-life-says-us-veteran-held-in-myanmar</guid>                
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 08:58:20 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Mkg, Wokha share points  in Dr T Ao Trophy opener]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/mkg-wokha-share-points-in-dr-t-ao-trophy-opener</link>
                <description><![CDATA[DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): Hosts Mokokchung and Wokha began their campaign in the 25th Dr T Ao Trophy Inter-District Football Championship with a 3-3 stalemate at the Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung, on October 13.Mokokchung took the lead in the 13th minute when captain Sentilong converted a direct free kick. Wokha drew level through Yibenthung Ezung in the 29th minute, but Lanutemsu restored the home side’s advantage four minutes later.The teams went into the second half with the contest still open. Victor Kithan brought Wokha back on level terms in the 47th minute, also from a direct free kick, before Yashimeren put Mokokchung ahead for the third time in the 60th minute.Mokokchung appeared poised to take the opening-day victory, but Ezung struck again in the third minute of added time beyond the regulation 70 minutes to complete his brace and earn Wokha a share of the points.October 14 matchesMeluri vs Tuensang, 9:00 amZunheboto vs Noklak, 12:00 pmMon vs Dimapur, 3:00 pm]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/mkg-wokha-share-points-in-dr-t-ao-trophy-opener</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:47:53 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Peren powerlifter returns  with triple gold from Nepal]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/peren-powerlifter-returns-with-triple-gold-from-nepal</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Asks peers to steer clear of intoxicantsMorung Express News&amp;nbsp;Dimapur | October 13Nagaland powerlifter Namteulung Newme returned home to Dimapur on Tuesday after clinching three gold medals for India at the World Cup Powerlifting Championship 2026 in Kathmandu, Nepal, sweeping the squat, bench press, and deadlift events in the sub-junior below-82 kg division.Speaking to reporters upon his arrival at Dimapur airport, Newme said the meet, held on October 9 and 10, saw stiff competition, with 21 athletes contesting his category. He described the championship as his most competitive outing to date.Newme said that self-doubt almost got the better of him before the meet. Intimidated by rivals with prior experience at national and international levels, he had called his mother two days before the contest, telling her he might not be able to pull it off.Crediting his mother for his success, Newme said her unwavering support kept him from quitting. He recalled how she woke up early each morning to cook his meals, adjusted to his night shift schedule, and ensured his diet remained on track when he returned too exhausted from training to prepare food himself.Hailing from Jalukie in Peren district, Newme started powerlifting in 2020. With no gym facilities in his hometown at the time, he initially relied on videos and reels before organised competitions gradually emerged in Nagaland.Newme currently works as a trainer at Puithing Gym in Jalukie, commuting regularly to Dimapur to train under his coach, Moalung. He also noted guidance received from powerlifting official Sunil.&amp;nbsp;According to him, his travel and participation expenses were covered entirely by his family members and gym clients. He added that he intends to prepare for upcoming competitions.Asked for his message to the youth, Newme observed that many of his peers get sidetracked by parties and alcohol, urging them to stay focused and bring about positive change. “Change should come from within,” he said.For aspiring power-lifters, he said, “Get proper guidance first. When entering powerlifting, don’t just chase heavy weights right away. Add weight gradually, build your knowledge step by step.”]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/peren-powerlifter-returns-with-triple-gold-from-nepal</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:47:09 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Wokha junior athletics meet rescheduled to October 15]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/wokha-junior-athletics-meet-rescheduled-to-october-15</link>
                <description><![CDATA[WOKHA, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): The Wokha Athletics Association will organise the Wokha District Junior Athletics Meet 2026 at the Public Ground, Wokha, on October 15. The meet, originally scheduled for October 14, has been rescheduled by a day. The district-level meet will also serve as a selection platform to identify promising junior athletes for the National Inter-District Junior Athletics Meet (NIDJAM) 2026.Competitions will be held for boys and girls in the Under-14 and Under-16 categories. The Under-14 events will include Triathlon, Triathlon A and Triathlon C, while the Under-16 events will comprise 60m, 600m, javelin throw and long jump. The javelin specifications are 600g for boys and 500g for girls, with a 10m approach.Eligible athletes from Wokha district may participate. Under-14 athletes must have been born between November 17, 2012, and November 16, 2014, while Under-16 athletes must have been born between November 17, 2010, and November 16, 2012. Athletes must be at least 12 years old as of November 16, 2026, and an Aadhaar card is mandatory for registration.Reporting is scheduled for 8 am, with a registration fee of Rs 100 per athlete. Outstanding performers will be shortlisted for NIDJAM 2026, scheduled from November 14 to 16 at Woxsen University, Kamkole, Sadasivpet, Hyderabad, Telangana.For registration and further information, athletes may contact the Wokha Athletics Association at 8787400683 or 9612961393.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/wokha-junior-athletics-meet-rescheduled-to-october-15</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:45:52 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Pungro admin assesses damage in Zaonger village]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/pungro-admin-assesses-damage-in-zaonger-village</link>
                <description><![CDATA[21 houses vandalised, 19 burnt; 19 vehicles damagedKiphire, October 13 (MExN): A total of 40 houses were either burnt or vandalised and 19 vehicles damaged or destroyed in Zaonger village, Pungro under Kiphire district during the recent tribal conflict, as per report on Tuesday.&amp;nbsp;The district administration led by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Pungro, Hotolu Sema, NCS, along with police personnel, President and representatives from Pungro Area Public Forum visited Zaonger Village on October 12 for a comprehensive assessment of the damages caused by the recent tribal conflict and to facilitate documentation and safe collection of personal belongings of displaced persons, a DIPR report said.The collected belongings were deposited at Pungro Police Station for safe custody, proper documentation and secure handling, and directions have been issued to ensure that the retrieved belongings remain protected till the packages are delivered, it said. According to the report, a total of 21 houses were vandalised while 19 houses were burnt in the village. As many as 19 vehicles were either burnt or damaged in the violence, the report said. While one sumo, one pickup truck and one motorcycle were damaged or capsized, 12 motorcycles, three sumos and one pickup truck were burnt, taking the toll of the number of vehicles burned or damaged to 19.“Cooperation from local representatives and CSO have been instrumental in facilitating coordination and maintaining communication among the stake holders,” it stated.The administration said security arrangements for civilians’ safety, damage assessment and assistance for displaced persons continues to remain priority. “The security has been tightened around the village and the situation continues be closely monitored,” it added.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/pungro-admin-assesses-damage-in-zaonger-village</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:24:18 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Tikhir Union Zaonger Village clarifies stand]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/tikhir-union-zaonger-village-clarifies-stand</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kiphire, October 13 (MExN): The Tikhir community of Zaonger village on Tuesday strongly rejected allegations made against it by the Zaonger Mihkhung Arihako (ZMA), calling them factually incorrect, misleading and contrary to official records and decisions.The Tikhir Union Zaonger Village, in a rejoinder, said the internal issue between the Yimkhiung and Tikhir communities at Zaonger had already been examined by the DBs Court based on historical records and documents, and its findings were submitted to the Deputy Commissioner, Kiphire. The DC forwarded the matter to the Commissioner, Nagaland, who referred it to the Home Commissioner for final consideration under the MoU and Modalities signed between the Tikhir Tribal Council (TTC) and Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC) on January 19, 2022.After examination, the Home Commissioner approved the position and conveyed it to the Commissioner, Nagaland, for necessary action under the MoU and Modalities.“In view of the above official process and decisions, there is no question of the Tikhir Community being unlawfully expelled from Zaonger Village or of its members being deprived of their community citizenship or status,” it said.It added that portraying the matter as an unresolved dispute or claiming the Tikhir community has no legitimate standing at Zaonger is misleading and contrary to records before competent authorities.The union reiterated that the TTC and YTC MoU and Modalities provide the framework for recognizing individuals who choose to identify with either community. It said anyone wishing to become a member of the Tikhir Tribe should not be prevented from doing so, and the same principle applies in reverse.“The Tikhir Community residing at Zaonger has every legitimate right to observe and celebrate its traditional, cultural and religious festivals, including Tikhir Tsonglaknyi, in accordance with its customary practices and community identity,” it said, adding that such observances cannot be construed as acts against or interference with the Yimkhiung community.The union made clear that the celebration of Tikhir Tsonglaknyi has no connection with the ZMA or any authority to object to Tikhir cultural and traditional practices.Appealing to all concerned to refrain from unsubstantiated allegations, provocative statements, or attempts to create misunderstanding between the two communities, the Tikhir community said it remains committed to peace, mutual respect, and communal harmony while firmly safeguarding its legitimate rights, identity, customs, and traditions within the framework of competent authority decisions and the TTC and YTC MoU and Modalities.It urged the ZMA and all concerned to respect official records, decisions, and agreed modalities and to refrain from further attempts to misrepresent the status or legitimate rights of the Tikhir community at Zaonger village.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/tikhir-union-zaonger-village-clarifies-stand</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:23:53 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[ENPO demands EAC posting,  police outpost at Kiusam]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/enpo-demands-eac-posting-police-outpost-at-kiusam</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Tuensang, October 13 (MExN): The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) on Tuesday expressed deep anguish over the recent communal violence in Kiusam Circle, Pungro town and Shamator Town and alleged of “serious lapses” in governance and maintenance of law and order which, it said, could have averted the conflict.The ENPO, in a statement issued by its media cell, said a delegation along with tribal councils undertook a peace mission tour to the affected areas and held separate consultative meetings with the tribal councils of the Yimkhiung and Tikhir communities at their respective tribal headquarters on October 11 and 12.“During the consultation, the ENPO fervently appealed to both communities to exercise utmost restraint and prevent any further escalation of violence within their respective jurisdictions,” it said. &amp;nbsp;Both Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC) and Tikhir Tribal Council (TTC) were urged to heed the appeals made by various Eastern tribal councils for restoration of peace.The ENPO, however, stated that during its peace mission tour to the affected headquarters it “observed serious lapses on the part of the administrative machinery in governance and in maintenance of law and order; otherwise, such conflicts could have been avoided.” It demanded that the shortage of manpower and facilities in the administration and police establishment be addressed immediately.Placing a three-point demand before the State Government for immediate action, the ENPO sought the immediate posting of an EAC at Kiusam, which is presently kept under the in-charge of EAC Pungro; creation and immediate establishment of a Police Outpost at Kiusam with sufficient manpower; and urgent relief and rehabilitation of displaced families affected by the communal violence in Kiusam area, Pungro area and Shamator Town.The organisation extended its appreciation to YTC led by its President Throngso Yimkhiung and TTC led by its President Timong Tikhir and their respective teams “for making concerted efforts to cool down the situation and prevent further escalation.” It also acknowledged the efforts of District Administrations and Police of Shamator and Kiphire Districts and the Commanding Officer (CO), 30 Assam Rifle, for taking prompt measures to contain the situation “despite limited facilities and resources.”The ENPO, on behalf of the entire people of Eastern Nagaland, also placed on record its acknowledgment to the United Sangtam Likhüm Pümji (USLP) under its President Aliba Sangtam “for playing an exemplary role by accommodating displaced families from both tribes at Kiphire Town and for ensuring peace and tranquillity within Kiphire Town.”Appealing to the State Government to ensure that the academic career of students belonging to the affected families is not jeopardised due to the recent communal conflict, the ENPO said all concerned authorities must take immediate remedial measures to ensure uninterrupted education and necessary support for the affected students.Further, the ENPO urged all Churches of Nagaland and Eastern Nagaland in particular, to “uphold the region in prayer for restoration of lasting peace, harmony and tranquillity.”]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/enpo-demands-eac-posting-police-outpost-at-kiusam</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:23:28 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Hornbill Festival: Nagaland CM  stresses roads, power & security]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/hornbill-festival-nagaland-cm-stresses-roads-power-security</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kohima, October 13 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday stressed the need for coordinated efforts among government departments and local communities to ensure the smooth and successful conduct of the 27th edition of the Hornbill Festival 2026.Addressing a preparatory meeting at Bamboo Hall, Kisama, the CM underscored the importance of good roads, reliable power and water supply, security, traffic management, cleanliness, parking facilities and public conveniences, stated an update from the state IPR.&amp;nbsp;The CM said he would convene a separate meeting with the departments concerned to discuss road-related issues, and called upon villages to take responsibility for keeping roads clean, particularly highways passing through or near their areas. He also directed all departments to designate nodal officers for the festival to ensure better coordination and timely action.Emphasising the need for collective responsibility, the CM urged all departments and stakeholders to work hard and ensure that necessary arrangements were in place for the festival.Advisor to the Chief Minister, Abu Metha emphasised that the festival should serve as a model for sustainable event management, citing rainwater harvesting, proper waste disposal and renewable energy. He said it offered an opportunity to demonstrate environmentally responsible practices on a large scale.He further stressed the importance of international partnerships, roundtable engagements and collaborations in art, music and films, noting their potential to promote Nagaland&#039;s creative economy.Minister for Tourism, Temjen Imna Along, highlighted the growing popularity of mini-Hornbill festivals and the increasing interest of foreign dignitaries in participating in the celebrations.A section of the gathering during the meeting of a high-powered committee held at Kisama Heritage Village on October 13.&amp;nbsp;Commissioner and Secretary, Tourism, Kovi Meyase, highlighted key logistical requirements, including water supply, sanitation, streamlining of vehicle passes and other arrangements necessary for the smooth functioning of the festival.During the meeting, Department of Art and Culture outlined preparations relating to cultural troupes and tribal guests, while the Department of Youth Resources and Sports highlighted planned activities, including the e-sports tournament. Representatives of other line departments also presented their proposed activities and preparations for the festival.A PTI report added, after the meeting the CM said all departments concerned have submitted their preparedness reports and “we are committed to ensuring the 27th edition of the festival is flawless, and our guests feel comfortable.”Addressing concerns over the condition of roads leading to Kisama, the CM assured reporters that access to the festival venue would be maintained. He said he would convene another meeting to examine the matter in detail.A major landslide triggered by incessant rainfall on August 13 damaged a stretch of National Highway-29 between Kisama and Phesama. The incident prompted calls for expedited restoration, slope stabilisation and improved drainage.In September, the Kohima District Disaster Management Authority was informed that the sinking section of the road at Phesama was expected to be made motorable by the latter part of November.On the proposed public-private partnership (PPP) model for the development of Kisama Heritage Village, the CM said tender documents were being prepared.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/hornbill-festival-nagaland-cm-stresses-roads-power-security</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:22:51 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[6,905 of 9,479 identified villages in Northeast linked to banking, postal services: Scindia]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/6905-of-9479-identified-villages-in-northeast-linked-to-banking-postal-services-scindia</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Aizawl, October 13 (IANS) Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia said on Tuesday that 131 new bank branches had been opened and 126 new ATMs installed across the Northeastern region between December 2024 and March 2026.&amp;nbsp;He added that 6,905 of the 9,479 villages identified for connectivity through banking and postal services had already been covered.Addressing the &#039;North East Bankers&#039; Conclave 3.0&#039; in Aizawl, the DoNER Minister announced that to ensure more people benefit effectively from banking services, the existing guideline requiring a minimum population of 3,000 to establish a brick-and-mortar branch has been lowered to a population threshold of 2,000 specifically for the Northeastern states.He also noted that 90.2 per cent of non-branch transactions in the Northeastern states are conducted through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI).Along with these positive developments, Scindia stressed the need to accelerate efforts to quickly connect the remaining 2,574 villages that lack bank or postal service links.&quot;Targets have been set to increase the Credit-Deposit (CD) Ratio of banks from 47 per cent to 60 per cent for Tripura, 60 per cent for Arunachal Pradesh, and 67 per cent for Mizoram,&quot; he said.The Union Minister noted that raising the CD Ratio increases the circulation of money within the state, making it a vital tool for development, and remarked that the acronym CD Ratio could even stand for &#039;Credit for Development&#039;.Scindia highlighted that the Northeastern states possess a large working-age youth population, high literacy rates, and abundant natural resources.He shared that this marks his 35th visit to the Northeastern states during his tenure of 2 years and 8 months as the DoNER Minister.He emphasised the crucial importance of collaboration between banks and the government for the development of the region.The DoNER Minister said that during the North East Bankers&#039; Conclave 2.0 held in Agartala (Tripura), various targets were set, including opening new bank branches, installing more ATMs, and connecting unbanked rural villages to banking systems.He added that the DoNER Secretary Katikithala Srinivas held individual consultations with representatives of each state to set specific targets.Scindia lauded Mizoram as a state successfully implementing digital payments, as well as the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) schemes.At the same time, he stressed the importance of boosting efforts for registration under the PM Jan Dhan Yojana and PM Vishwakarma, noting that banking operations must place greater emphasis on expanding credit and lending.Scindia said that the deliberations at Tuesday&#039;s NE Bankers&#039; Conclave 3.0 were divided into four session themes: Last Mile, Loans, Livelihoods, and Lifelines.These encompass connecting unbanked villages to banks, Business Correspondents, or the India Post Payments Bank; intensifying loan disbursements to MSMEs and women entrepreneurs; undertaking initiatives to ensure sustainable livelihoods for farmers; and building better connectivity and infrastructure.The Union Minister urged the gathering to formulate ten recommendations from each of the four sessions on Tuesday, along with forty (40) actionable paths to fulfill them.He asked them to set timelines and clear metrics to execute these proposals, expressing his hope that the North East Bankers&#039; Conclave 4.0 will showcase even greater progress.Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma in his address said that the most important function of a bank is not merely safeguarding the public&#039;s money, but creating opportunities for human upliftment and empowerment.He described banks and financial institutions as crucial drivers of state development, catalysts for various businesses, pillars of support for entrepreneurs, avenues for wealth creation, and vital tools for establishing sustainable livelihoods.He said that during the 2025-26 fiscal year, while Assam&#039;s Credit-Deposit Ratio stood at 73.52 per cent, Nagaland&#039;s at 61.1 per cent, and Tripura&#039;s at 61 per cent, Mizoram lagged behind at 55.83 per cent.The Chief Minister added that this highlights the urgent need to step up efforts, with a target set to scale it up to 67 per cent by the 2028-29 fiscal year.Lalduhoma stressed that banks must expand their footprint beyond Aizawl into other districts and rural areas to remain easily accessible to those in need.Given that Mizoram boasts a high loan recovery rate, the Chief Minister urged banks to leverage this positive trait effectively.]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/6905-of-9479-identified-villages-in-northeast-linked-to-banking-postal-services-scindia</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:06:57 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Samantha Sloyan says Mike Flanagan crafts fully-rounded, imperfect human beings]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/samantha-sloyan-says-mike-flanagan-crafts-fully-rounded-imperfect-human-beings</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Los Angeles, October 13 (IANS) Hollywood actress Samantha Sloyan, who is receiving a lot of positive response to her work in the recently released streaming miniseries ‘Carrie’, and heaped praise on the show’s director Mike Flanagan.The actress spoke with IANS along with her co-actress Summer H. Howell during the promotions of the series.She told IANS, “I keep saying that I feel like he just writes people that we recognize. He writes fully-rounded human beings that are imperfect and that that kind of allows us to let them in and see ourselves in that. And then also, he&#039;s just he comes from such a place of real hope for the world”.“So even though he&#039;s dealing with these dark subjects, it&#039;s always like aiming towards a light place. And I really appreciate that in him, because I feel like we could use a lot more of that”, she added.Earlier, the actress had shared her experience of working with the show’s director Mike Flanagan. She said that Mike and the author Stephen King, on whose eponymous novel the series is based, are “kindred spirits”.She earlier said, “I&#039;ve worked through this, my seventh project with him, and it&#039;s always a joy. And I think what you had mentioned, Stephen King, that they just, they&#039;re so kindred spirits in so many ways”.Talking about ‘Carrie’, the series follows the socially isolated teenager as she navigates high school, bullying and the oppressive influence of her mother, Margaret, while discovering her telekinetic abilities. Flanagan updates the story for the social-media era, bringing cyberbullying, online humiliation and modern teenage pressures into the narrative.The series expands several characters and explores the psychological roots of cruelty, victimhood and revenge more deeply than earlier adaptations. While Brian De Palma’s 1976 film remains the iconic version, the series format gives the story considerably more room to explore its characters and themes.The series is available to stream on Prime Video.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/samantha-sloyan-says-mike-flanagan-crafts-fully-rounded-imperfect-human-beings</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:04:52 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Rovisenuo Hibo crowned Miss Kohima 2026]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/rovisenuo-hibo-crowned-miss-kohima-2026</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Our CorrespondentKohima | October 13Rovisenuo Hibo was crowned Miss Kohima 2026 at the Miss Kohima Beauty Pageant held on October 13 at the Regional Centre for Excellence in Music and Performing Arts (RCEMPA), Jotsoma, under the theme “Beyond the Crown.”Hibo, 20, is a student of Kohima Science College, Jotsoma. She was crowned by Miss Kohima 2025, Ritsala Thonger.Sunepjungla Kichu and Thejazenuo Angami, both students of St Joseph’s College, Jakhama, were adjudged the first and second runners-up respectively.They were crowned by Miss Kohima 2025 first runner-up Neilanuo Sachü and Miss Kohima 2025 second runner-up Kechangunuo Kelio respectively.The subtitle winners include Miss Perfect 10-Sunepjungla Kichu, Miss Multimedia-Rovisenuo Hibo, Queen of Hearts-Thejazenuo Angami, Best Advocacy- Lumvila T Sangtam (St Joseph’s College Jakhama) and Miss Talent- Vinika P Kiba (St Joseph’s College Jakhama).Organised by 4Front Event Management in collaboration with Sazolie College, Jotsoma as the host college, the show was graced by Maj Gen Harinder Singh Mavi, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North) as the special guest. Dr Gopal Chetri, Principal, Sazolie College also spoke at the show.20 contestants walk the ramp in evening gown segment, designed by TS Academy of Design Faculties.The judges for the show included Veineinem Singson Haolai, Sekuzo Sovenyi, &amp;nbsp;Suyimtenla Jamir, Keziah Mero and Nikali Shohe.Benchumo, Nchumbemo, Tsiphrino, Daniel Basnet and Sangtila performed at the show. Earlier, Theja Sekhose, Show Director and Co-Founder of 4Front Event Management delivered welcome address while Peweu Tunyi Khamo, Co-Founder, 4Front Event Management delivered vote of thanks. Anon Wangshu assisted the show as host.Miss Kohima 2026 edition reflected a celebration of beauty, confidence, talent, leadership and purpose.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/rovisenuo-hibo-crowned-miss-kohima-2026</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:01:44 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland remains vulnerable to landslides, floods]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-remains-vulnerable-to-landslides-floods</link>
                <description><![CDATA[NSDMA observes International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2026Kohima, October 13 (MExN): Nagaland remains vulnerable to natural hazards, particularly landslides and floods during the monsoon season, with recent monsoon-related damages to houses, roads, agricultural land and public infrastructure underlining the need to strengthen disaster preparedness and reduce risks at the community level, the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) said on Tuesday.In this context, the NSDMA, Home Department, observed the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2026 under the theme ‘Resilience Starts at Home’ at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima with the programme aiming to strengthen awareness of disaster risks and emphasise the need to move beyond emergency response towards prevention, mitigation and preparedness.The theme, ‘Resilience Starts at Home,’ underscores that disaster preparedness begins with individuals and families, with awareness of local hazards, knowledge of evacuation procedures, preparation of emergency supplies and adherence to official warnings being essential steps towards reducing the impact of disasters.It also highlights the importance of community participation and collective responsibility, with households, village councils, urban local bodies, educational institutions and government agencies working together to strengthen resilience, stated a press release from the NSDMA.&amp;nbsp;Delivering the keynote address, Z Nyusietho Nyuthe, Advisor, NSDMA and Inland Waterways, stressed the importance of preparedness at the household and community levels and called for greater public awareness, preventive measures and coordinated efforts to minimise the loss of lives and damage to property.He underscored that disaster management requires the collective efforts of the government, response agencies and the public, with preparedness and mitigation receiving due attention alongside response and recovery.The programme recognised the service and performance of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) through the presentation of commendation awards. The SDRF Dimapur Unit received the ‘Best Performing SDRF Unit’ award, while HG T Nokyuh Konyak of SDRF Mon received the ‘SDRF Commendation Certificate.’The role of the Home Guards, Civil Defence and SDRF in strengthening the State’s disaster response capacity was also highlighted, with their contribution to emergency response, rescue, evacuation and assistance during disasters remaining important in protecting lives and property.The programme emphasised the need for continued capacity building, regular training, mock drills and operational readiness to ensure an effective response during emergencies.An address was delivered by Medozhalie Pienyii, Deputy Commandant General, Home Guards, Civil Defence and SDRF, and the programme featured a special song by the SDRF Unit, Kohima.The technical session included a presentation by the District Commandant, Dimapur, and an experience-sharing session by the Company Commander, Mon District, focusing on operational experiences in the SDRF, besides an interactive session to encourage discussion and exchange of views on disaster management and response.Through the observance of IDDRR 2026, the NSDMA reiterated the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness and mitigation while promoting a culture of safety and resilience across Nagaland, reinforcing the message that disaster risk reduction is a shared responsibility and that building resilience begins with preparedness at home, extends to communities and is strengthened through coordinated institutional efforts.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-remains-vulnerable-to-landslides-floods</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 23:00:10 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[ICE FEST 2026 celebrates  ‘words, ideas and camaraderie’]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/ice-fest-2026-celebrates-words-ideas-and-camaraderie</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Morung Express NewsZunheboto | October 13The Zunheboto Government College Students’ Union (ZGCSU) organised ICE FEST 2026 at the college campus on October 13 under the theme ‘Viva la Festa: Celebrating words, ideas and camaraderie’ with Dr Shitovi Sumi, Principal of Anderson Theological College (ATC), as the guest speaker.Addressing the students, Dr Shitovi Sumi emphasised punctuality, creativity and the importance of recognising and using God-given gifts. Explaining the meaning of “Viva la Festa,” a Spanish phrase referring to celebration or festival, he said the occasion was meant to celebrate creativity and bold concepts.Students take part in the cosplay competition during the ICE FEST 2026 organised by Zunheboto Government College Students’ Union at the college campus on October 13. (Morung Photo)&amp;nbsp;He observed that everyone present possessed creativity and noted that even introducing humour into a situation was an expression of creativity. He encouraged young people to acknowledge God for the gifts and courage they had received, reminding them that human beings were created in the image of God and were bearers of His image. He also referred to James 1:7 during his address.The programme was chaired by Alomi T Yepthomi, Organising Secretary of ZGCSU. It began with the college anthem, followed by an invocation by Assutoli Aye Shenunu, President of ZICEU, and a welcome address by Vipeto, General Secretary of ZGCSU. Vinika Sumi presented a special number before the guest speaker’s address.&amp;nbsp;The festival featured literary competitions, including painting, poetry recitation, spelling bee, extempore speech and debate. The informal session included e-sports, cosplay, solo and duet performances, Bollyfusion and beatbox, alongside live performances by guest artists Hopong Naga, VK Khusoh and Mughato Achumi.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/ice-fest-2026-celebrates-words-ideas-and-camaraderie</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:57:59 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Reflection - October 14 - 2026]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/reflection-october-14-2026</link>
                <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
                <category>
                        Reflections
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/reflection-october-14-2026</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:57:00 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland: News in Pictures]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-news-in-pictures-oct14-2026</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Chida Cottages at Chida Resort, Khezhakeno, was inaugurated by S Gopalakrishnan, IAS, Chairman, Staff Selection Commission, Government of India, on October 12 in the presence of Kevekha Kevin Zehol, NCS (Retd), Chairman, Nagaland Staff Selection Board, and W Ngyinveh Konyak, Chairperson, Nagaland State Commission for Women. The initiative aims to promote eco-tourism and create livelihood opportunities for the local community, and is expected to boost Khezhakeno’s tourism potential and socio-economic development. Village leaders, elders, members of Khezhakeno Youth Organisation, Khezhakeno Students’ Union and other well-wishers attended the programme.The Carl Rogers Institute of Mental Health &amp; Research Centre (CRIMHRC) Kohima in collaboration with National Health Mission (NHM) and the National Mental Health Program (NMHP) organised an awareness event at St Joseph’s College, Jakhama on October 12. Speaking on the World Health Organization (WHO) theme, “Lived Experience Heard: Real Voices, Real Changes,” CRIMHRC Vice Principal Methahole Teresa Ltu highlighted the urgent need to prioritize mental well-being and champion personal advocacy, emphasizing that amplifying authentic, lived experiences is essential for breaking societal stigma and driving positive change.The Lotha Eloe Hoho (LEH) inducted new members into its executive body during a meeting held at Lotha Eloe Hoho Ki on October 13. The newly inducted members include Dr Abeni Kithan and Nzanbeni Ovung as advisors, Oreno Ngullie as finance secretary, and Meribeni Kikon as press secretary. LEH President Thungbeni Ngullie stressed the importance of unity, cooperation, and collective responsibility in strengthening the organization. She urged the new members to serve with sincerity and dedication for the welfare of the organization and community.&amp;nbsp;The Assam Rifles organised a free multi-speciality medical camp at Town Hall, Tuensang, on October 12, treating 315 patients. The camp brought together doctors specialising in general medicine, dermatology, dentistry, psychology, gynaecology, homoeopathy and orthopaedics to provide free consultations and promote healthcare awareness among the public. (Photo Courtesy: Hanso Chang)Murti Film Creation and Ariya Devi Production presented the premiere of ‘Dumdar Khiladiyon ka Khiladi’ at Town Hall Dimapur on October 11. Kamal Jain, State Treasurer and Convenor of Finance Committee, attended as chief guest, while Chandu Agarwal, businessman, social worker and State Spokesperson of BJP Nagaland was the guest of honour. Directed by Munna Yadav, the film stars Shubi Sharma, Prince Mishra, and Munna Yadav in lead roles, alongside artists from Nagaland.Theja Petrol Pump, along National Highway-2 at Ziehezou, Nerhema, was inaugurated on October 13 by Rev Dr Zotuo Kiewhuo, Founder and Senior Pastor of Koinonia Baptist Church and Principal of Kohima Bible College. Rev Dr Kiewhuo said success and prosperity come through obedience to God, and prayed for customers to receive salvation, spiritual joy and peace through Jesus Christ. Proprietor Thejanguzo Kiewhuo thanked Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) for the franchise and all those present, calling the enterprise a blessing from God and noting it was the first IOC petrol pump in the Nerhema area. IOC Field Officer Raja Sharma congratulated the proprietor and wished the enterprise success under IOC.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-news-in-pictures-oct14-2026</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:53:40 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NSCN/GPRN (YA) cautions against imposters]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nscngprn-ya-cautions-against-imposters</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The NSCN/GPRN (Yung Aung) has issued a warning against individuals impersonating its members and engaging in illegal extortion and fraudulent tax collection in Kohima and Dimapur districts.In a statement issued by its MIP, the group said it has identified one such fraudster operating under the alias ‘HK Sema,’ whose real name is ‘Kakto Chopy.’ According to the NSCN/GPRN (YA), Chopy has been actively collecting large sums of money from government departments in Kohima while falsely claiming to represent the organisation.It stated that despite previous warnings, the individual continued his illegal operations. NSCN/GPRN (YA) said it has taken serious note of his activities and issued a final warning to him to cease all operations immediately or face capital punishment. It also cautioned that the same consequences would apply to any other individuals engaged in similar activities under the name of the organisation.The group has urged all relevant government departments and business establishments in Kohima and Dimapur districts to remain vigilant against such imposters.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nscngprn-ya-cautions-against-imposters</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:31:39 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Freight loading in September up 46.5%: NFR]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/freight-loading-in-september-up-465-nfr</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Maligaon, October 13 (MExN): The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) recorded freight loading of 1.134 million tonnes (MT) in September 2026, marking a 46.5% increase from 0.774 MT in September 2025.Cumulative freight loading from April to September 2026 stood at 6.226 MT, registering a growth of 12% over the 5.557 MT recorded during the corresponding period of the previous financial year, the NFR stated.In a press release, the NFR said the growth in September was driven by strong performance across several key commodity segments.Food grain loading surged by 610% to 0.071 MT, while miscellaneous commodities, including fruits, vegetables and timber, recorded growth of over 157% compared to September 2025.Cement and fertiliser loading increased by 295% and 200%, respectively, while dolomite and container traffic grew by 52% and 17.6%, respectively.The positive trend was also reflected in cumulative performance during April–September 2026, with cement loading increasing by 181% over the corresponding period last year, while dolomite loading rose by 36.7%.The NFR attributed the sustained growth to its efforts to strengthen freight operations through improved operational efficiency, enhanced coordination with freight customers and streamlined transportation of essential commodities.]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/freight-loading-in-september-up-465-nfr</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:31:14 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Alleging gaps in Agri Dept’s disclosures, Dimapur DCC seeks independent probe]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/alleging-gaps-in-agri-depts-disclosures-dimapur-dcc-seeks-independent-probe</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The Dimapur District Congress Committee (DCC) has alleged that the Directorate of Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, failed to provide several key documents relating to the procurement and supply of agricultural machinery, seeds and other inputs, despite an order issued by the First Appellate Authority under the Right to Information (RTI) Act on September 2, 2026.In a statement, the DCC said the department’s alleged failure to make complete disclosures raised questions about procurement transparency, supplier selection, equipment pricing and the distribution of materials intended for farmers.The committee said that while the department had furnished some supply orders, invoices and payment records, several documents remained outstanding. These included tender notices, competitive quotations, comparative statements, purchase committee proceedings, stock registers, quality inspection reports and beneficiary distribution records.The DCC questioned how suppliers were selected and whether the procurement process ensured fair competition. It also sought price comparisons to establish whether the machinery and agricultural inputs were purchased at reasonable rates and represented value for public money.The committee further maintained that invoices and payment records alone could not establish whether the materials had reached the intended beneficiaries, calling for stock verification and beneficiary acknowledgements. It also sought disclosure of applicable procurement rules, approvals, financial sanctions, quality certifications and records reconciling procurement expenditure.The DCC called on the Director of Agriculture to explain why the outstanding information had not been furnished and urged the Agriculture Advisor to ensure accountability and order an independent examination of the transactions in question.The committee has given the Director of Agriculture and the concerned Advisor 10 days, until October 23, to ensure that the pending documents are disclosed and the procurement-related concerns addressed. It also demanded independent verification of procurement procedures, supplier selection, equipment prices, stock records and beneficiary distribution.The DCC cautioned of peaceful protests, lawful action for storehouse sealing and stock verification, and proceedings before the State Information Commission and other competent forums if the department fails to comply.“This is not merely a question of missing documents; it is a question of public accountability and the proper use of taxpayers’ money,” the committee stated, adding that it would pursue the matter until the outstanding information was disclosed and the concerns independently examined.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/alleging-gaps-in-agri-depts-disclosures-dimapur-dcc-seeks-independent-probe</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:30:34 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[CNTC appeals for peace, restraint amid community tensions]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/cntc-appeals-for-peace-restraint-amid-community-tensions</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) has appealed to the Yimkhiung and Tikhir communities to end the recent violence and tensions, urging both sides to exercise restraint and uphold their longstanding ties of brotherhood.In a statement issued amid the unrest, the CNTC expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, injuries to innocent people, burning of homes and displacement of families, stating that the suffering of one community was felt by the other.The council emphasised that the Yimkhiung and Tikhir communities were closely bound by blood, history and culture, with a shared destiny. It urged people from both sides to choose restraint over retaliation and prevent further loss of life, destruction of property and displacement.“True courage is not found in striking back, but in the strength to protect, to forgive, and to heal,” the statement said, appealing to leaders, elders and youth of both communities to guide their people with wisdom and compassion, protect the vulnerable and work towards restoring peace.The CNTC also called upon the State Government and district administrations to act with urgency and fairness to ensure the safety of all, provide immediate relief to affected families and facilitate genuine dialogue to pave the way for reconciliation.Reaffirming the values of resilience, forgiveness and kinship among the Nagas, the council expressed hope that the present crisis would give way to reconciliation and a stronger bond between the two communities.“May the tears stop. May peace return. And may the bond of brotherhood between the Yimkhiung and Tikhir people be restored, stronger than before,” the statement added.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/cntc-appeals-for-peace-restraint-amid-community-tensions</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:29:58 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Doyang Wildlife Division reinforces ban on hunting]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/doyang-wildlife-division-reinforces-ban-on-hunting</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Wokha, October 13 (MExN): The Office of the Wildlife Warden, Doyang Wildlife Division, Wokha, under the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Nagaland, has issued an order reiterating the ban on the trade and hunting of wild animals and birds under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.As per the DIPR report, the order issued on October 13, stated that hunting of wild animals and birds within Nagaland’s territorial jurisdiction is strictly prohibited, except in cases permitted under the provisions of the Act.The order particularly highlighted the protection of Amur Falcons, stating that hunting, trapping, killing or selling the migratory birds for food, possession or any other purpose constitutes a criminal offence. Violators may face imprisonment of up to seven years, a fine of Rs 25,000, or both, under Sections 9 and 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.The directive applies to areas under the jurisdiction of the Doyang Wildlife Division, covering Wokha, Mokokchung and Zunheboto districts.In compliance with government directives and in the interest of conserving wildlife, all concerned have been directed to strictly adhere to the ban. The order cautioned that anyone found violating the directives would be liable for prosecution under the relevant provisions of the Act.Wildlife Warden, Doyang Division, Jongponglemba, stated that appropriate legal action would be initiated against individuals or groups found violating the provisions of the Act.The directive underscores the importance of protecting wildlife, particularly migratory species such as the Amur Falcon, and calls for public cooperation in conserving Nagaland’s rich biodiversity.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/doyang-wildlife-division-reinforces-ban-on-hunting</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:29:22 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NSCN (IM) condemns drone attacks in Langkho village, refutes link to Horeb Camp]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nscn-im-condemns-drone-attacks-in-langkho-village-refutes-link-to-horeb-camp</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) has condemned two reported drone attacks in Myanmar’s Naga region, including a strike on a residence in Langkho village on October 3 and another attack on Mt Horeb Camp on October 11.According to the NSCN (IM), the October 3 strike targeted the residence of NSCN-K (Yung Aung) Brigadier Akham Konyak and resulted in the deaths of two civilians.It also claimed that approximately 60 explosive devices were dropped during the reported drone attack on Mt Horeb Camp in Myanmar’s Naga Self-Administered Zone in the early hours of October 11.In a press release issued through its Ministry of Information and Publicity (MIP), the NSCN (IM) called for a transparent, impartial and credible investigation into the incidents to identify those responsible and ensure accountability.Expressing solidarity with the Naga people across political boundaries, the organisation said lasting peace could not be achieved through the destruction of camps or the political marginalisation of a people. It called for dialogue as the primary means of resolving differences.In the same press release, the NSCN (IM) categorically denied any involvement in the reported attack on Mt Horeb Camp.“It is categorically stated that the NSCN/GPRN had no role, whether direct or indirect, in the planning, authorisation, or execution of the said attack,” it asserted.It further stated that no personnel, equipment or aerial assets under its command or control had been deployed in the vicinity of the location on the date of the incident.“Any claim or insinuation to the contrary is without foundation, misleading, and is unequivocally rejected,” the NSCN (IM) added.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nscn-im-condemns-drone-attacks-in-langkho-village-refutes-link-to-horeb-camp</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:28:58 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NNC calls for observance of Naga National Martyrs’ Day on October 18]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nnc-calls-for-observance-of-naga-national-martyrs-day-on-october-18</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The Naga National Council (NNC) has called upon Naga people in the homeland and across the world to observe Naga National Martyrs’ Day on October 18 , in remembrance of those who “sacrificed their lives for the cause of Naga sovereignty.”In an appeal issued through its Information and Publicity Wing, the NNC described the observance as a “national obligation and duty of every Naga” to honour the thousands of martyrs who, it stated, laid down their lives in the struggle for Naga freedom from 1952 to the present.It said their sacrifices remained an enduring part of Naga national history and should not be forgotten by future generations.The NNC urged the Naga people to observe the day with “solemn dignity, unity and earnest prayer”, while seeking God’s blessings and strength to continue the pursuit of what it termed the Naga people’s “legitimate historical and political rights”.It also called for the observance to be held in unity, including among Nagas living abroad and in Naga-inhabited territories, to honour the sacrifices of those who died in the struggle and uphold their legacy.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nnc-calls-for-observance-of-naga-national-martyrs-day-on-october-18</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:28:34 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NSCN (IM) Saramati Region appeals for peace between communities]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nscn-im-saramati-region-appeals-for-peace-between-communities</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) Saramati Region has appealed to the Tikhir and Yimkhiung communities to maintain peace, harmony and mutual respect following a recent incident between the two communities.In an appeal issued by C Süchu Jacob, Care-Taker/CAO of the Saramati Region, the organisation urged all concerned to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that could escalate the situation.It said both communities shared a common history, deep-rooted cultural and social ties, and a longstanding spirit of brotherhood, adding that these bonds were more valuable than any disagreement or misunderstanding.The appeal acknowledged that the past could not be undone but maintained that both communities could collectively choose the path of peace, understanding and reconciliation.It also called on tribal bodies, community leaders, youth organisations, civil society groups and concerned citizens of both communities to promote dialogue, discourage rumours and provocation, and work towards an amicable resolution.“The safety and well-being of our people must remain our foremost priority,” the appeal stated.Emphasising the need to preserve the relationship between the two communities, it said differences should be resolved through mutual understanding and constructive dialogue rather than confrontation or violence.The organisation urged both communities to uphold mutual respect and work towards a future founded on peace, dignity and harmony, expressing hope that their relationship would grow stronger for generations to come.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nscn-im-saramati-region-appeals-for-peace-between-communities</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:28:09 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NSCN (Unification) questions Forest Department’s handling of wildlife cases]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nscn-unification-questions-forest-departments-handling-of-wildlife-cases</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The GPRN/NSCN (Unification) has questioned the Nagaland Forest Department’s handling of wildlife-related cases, alleging harassment of citizens and seeking greater transparency over its authority on traditionally owned lands.In a press statement issued on October 13, Kilonser of Kilo (Home) Affairs Inno Huvito Yepthomi expressed concern over the alleged summoning, threatening and mental harassment of Naga citizens in the name of wildlife protection.The organisation stated that it did not ordinarily concern itself with the internal administrative affairs of the Nagaland Government but said intervention was necessary when a department’s actions appeared to “encroach upon the land, property and inherent rights of the Naga people.” It added that silence in such circumstances was neither “appropriate nor acceptable.”The organisation cited the case of Vezheto Hesuh, which it said had intensified public concern over the department’s approach to wildlife-related matters and asserted that “the mere posting of photograph cannot, in itself, establish that a person has engaged in illegal hunting, poaching, trafficking or any other prohibited activity.”The GPRN/NSCN (Unification) also raised concerns over human-elephant conflict, claiming that wild elephants entering Nagaland from neighbouring Assam had damaged plantations, agricultural produce and private property, with reports of fatalities. It stated that a herd was roaming in and around Hovishe village under Niuland, causing further damage, and called for preventive measures, timely intervention and appropriate relief for affected families.The statement urged the State Government to clarify the legal basis of the Forest Department’s authority over lands traditionally owned by individuals, clans, villages and communities. It sought disclosure of relevant notifications, boundaries, ownership details and applicable laws governing reserved forests, protected forests and wildlife sanctuaries.Citing departmental figures, the organisation stated that Nagaland had approximately 8,629.30 sq km of recorded forest area, of which 7,621.07 sq km, or 88.30%, was classified as privately or community-owned, while 1,008.23 sq km, or 11.70%, was state-owned.It argued that forest cover or wildlife habitat on privately owned land did not, by itself, establish government ownership, and called for a distinction between ownership and regulatory jurisdiction.The statement also pointed out that the Article 371A(1)(a)(iv) of the Constitution, which provides that Acts of Parliament concerning the ownership and transfer of land and its resources shall not apply to Nagaland unless the Nagaland Legislative Assembly so decides by resolution.However, the organisation maintained that the constitutional provision was not a substitute for the political rights and aspirations of the Naga people or an honourable and permanent settlement of the Indo-Naga political issue. It asserted that Naga customary ownership was rooted in historical rights and traditions and should not be determined by administrative convenience.Clarifying its position, the organisation said it did not oppose wildlife protection or biodiversity conservation but maintained that conservation must respect human life, customary land ownership and property rights. While acknowledging that authorities could act where credible evidence established offences within duly notified protected areas, it opposed “arbitrary summons, intimidation or arrests.”It urged the Forest Department to verify allegations, exercise restraint, address human-elephant conflict, assist affected families and ensure enforcement was grounded in evidence and applicable law.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nscn-unification-questions-forest-departments-handling-of-wildlife-cases</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:27:45 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NSF demands AFSPA repeal, condemns alleged drone strike on Langkho]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nsf-demands-afspa-repeal-condemns-alleged-drone-strike-on-langkho</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has demanded the immediate revocation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) across the Naga homeland, while condemning the alleged Indian Army drone strike on Langkho village in Myanmar’s Naga Self-Administered Zone (NSAZ) on October 3.In a statement issued on October 13, the NSF expressed grave concern over the reported incident, which it stated injured two civilians, including a minor girl, and caused extensive property damage.The federation called for immediate scrutiny and accountability, stating that the reported targeting of a civilian-populated area raised serious questions concerning the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution under international humanitarian law.It urged the concerned authorities to provide a clear and transparent account of the incident and called for an independent, impartial and credible investigation to establish the facts, identify those responsible and ensure accountability.The NSF also expressed strong opposition to the continued extension of AFSPA across the Naga homeland. It stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, had extended the Act with effect from October 1, 2026.Describing the continued enforcement of AFSPA as an affront to democratic accountability and human dignity, the federation alleged that the Act’s sweeping powers and legal safeguards against prosecution had contributed to human rights violations and insecurity among the Naga people.The NSF demanded the immediate revocation of AFSPA, an end to military actions that place civilians at risk, and meaningful political engagement by the Government of India.It also called on the international human rights community and relevant independent bodies to examine the Langkho incident and the broader implications of prolonged militarisation in the Naga homeland.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nsf-demands-afspa-repeal-condemns-alleged-drone-strike-on-langkho</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:27:12 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[LRC-NSF backs APO resolution on ILP, urges united Naga stand]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/lrc-nsf-backs-apo-resolution-on-ilp-urges-united-naga-stand</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has commended what it termed as Angami Public Organisation (APO) “firm and time-bound resolution” on the Inner Line Pass and protection of Naga interests, while urging other Naga tribal organisations and apex bodies to adopt a coordinated approach.In a statement, the ILRC said the APO had highlighted the continued failure to effectively enforce safeguards under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, including in Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland.It said the APO’s phased approach provides individuals and non-indigenous communities time to address illegal immigration and ensure that employment, services, documents and tenancy arrangements comply with the law.The ILRC maintained that its concern was not with non-indigenous people who enter, work, trade and reside in Nagaland lawfully, but with ‘illegal immigration and non-compliance with existing laws.’The commission called on other Naga tribal organisations and apex bodies to join the initiative, while urging the State Government to respond to the matter without delay.It also stated that its representation to the Chief Minister, submitted on October 1 following the National Seminar on the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, was still awaiting a response from the Chief Minister’s Office.According to the ILRC, the representation was reported in print media, but space constraints prevented publication of the full text. Organisations and individuals seeking a complete copy may contact the commission through its official WhatsApp number, +91 84138 99928, it added.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/lrc-nsf-backs-apo-resolution-on-ilp-urges-united-naga-stand</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:26:46 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Sümi Kukami Hoho seeks rescheduling of NSSB exam]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/smi-kukami-hoho-seeks-rescheduling-of-nssb-exam</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The Sümi Kukami Hoho (SKH) has urged the Nagaland Staff Selection Board (NSSB) to reschedule the Combined Staff Recruitment Examination (CSRE) scheduled for November 14, as it coincides with Ahuna, the traditional harvest festival of the Sümi community.In a representation dated October 12 addressed to the NSSB chairman, the SKH said scheduling a major recruitment examination on the occasion could create a conflict for candidates seeking to participate in both the examination and the traditional festival.The Hoho, representing village chairmen and traditional leadership of the community, noted that Ahuna holds cultural, historical and social significance for the Sümi community and is an integral part of its identity, traditions and collective heritage.It also pointed out that the festival’s observance on November 14 is recognised in the annual cultural calendar of the Nagaland Government.The preservation of cultural identity and the pursuit of educational and professional opportunities should complement one another rather than compel young people to choose between the two, it added.&amp;nbsp;Clarifying that its representation was neither a demand for preferential treatment nor an attempt to obstruct the recruitment process, the SKH said it respected the NSSB’s responsibility to conduct examinations fairly, transparently and impartially.Accordingly, it urged the Board to select an alternative date that does not coincide with Ahuna and to consider major traditional festivals and community observances when preparing examination schedules in the future.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/smi-kukami-hoho-seeks-rescheduling-of-nssb-exam</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:26:20 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[MoS Defence Sanjay Seth to discuss NCC's expansion in NE on Oct 15]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/mos-defence-sanjay-seth-to-discuss-nccs-expansion-in-ne-on-oct-15</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Guwahati, October 13 (IANS) Minister of State (MoS) for Defence Sanjay Seth will lead senior representatives from the Ministry, National Cadet Corps (NCC) and state governments in discussions here on October 15 on expansion of the youth organisation in the Northeastern region, an official said on Tuesday.MoS Seth will chair the Special Joint State Representatives and Additional Director General&#039;s Conference of NCC led by Director General Lieutenant General Virendra Vats in Guwahati on October 15.The conference will deliberate on issues concerning the NCC in the North Eastern Region (NER), West Bengal and Sikkim, an official statement said.Key issues on agenda relate to the expansion of NCC, cadet welfare, training, institutional strengthening and administrative challenges.The event will also provide a platform for enhanced coordination between the NCC and state governments to explore collaborative initiatives for increasing the reach, effectiveness and impact of the organisation, the statement said.The NCC plays a significant role in youth development, nation-building and community engagement through its Social Service and Community Development (SSCD) activities.With a presence in more than 99 per cent of districts across India, the NCC continues to contribute to the development of disciplined, responsible and motivated citizens. It functions under the shared responsibilities of the Central and state governments.Earlier, speaking at an event in Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, MoS Seth highlighted the significance of a collaboration with the Health Ministry in establishing a High Altitude Research Centre in Keylong.Drawing on the armed forces&#039; experience of operating in high-altitude environments, the MoS expressed confidence that the joint research initiative would help deepen scientific understanding of the health challenges associated with extreme altitudes and contribute to the development of effective medical solutions.MoS Seth emphasised the importance of combining Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)&#039;s scientific research capabilities with the practical experience of the Armed Forces Medical Services to address the health challenges posed by high-altitude conditions.The research undertaken at the centre is expected to support a better understanding of the effects of altitude on the human body, with potential benefits for personnel serving in challenging environments as well as local communities living in the high-altitude regions of Himachal Pradesh, the MoS said.]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/mos-defence-sanjay-seth-to-discuss-nccs-expansion-in-ne-on-oct-15</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:25:23 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Manipur CM felicitates three hockey gold medallists from state]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/manipur-cm-felicitates-three-hockey-gold-medallists-from-state</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Imphal, October 13 (IANS) Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Tuesday felicitated three hockey players from the state who represented India and won gold medals in the hockey discipline at the recently concluded 20th Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. &amp;nbsp;The gold medallists from Manipur are Sanglakpam Nilakanta Sharma from the Men&#039;s squad and Pukhrambam Sushila Chanu and Kharibam Bichu Devi from the Women&#039;s squad.During the meeting at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Mantripukhri in Imphal, Khemchand Singh observed that Indian hockey has improved significantly in the recent past. He noted that the gold medal victories in both the men&#039;s and women&#039;s hockey events at the 20th Asian Games 2026 reflected a significant improvement in the performance of Indian hockey and marked a positive development for the sport in the country.In response to the players’ request for suitable employment in the state government departments in recognition of their achievements and laurels brought to the state, the Chief Minister advised them to submit applications to the Director of Youth Affairs and Sports.Regarding the request raised by one of the players for formulating a comprehensive policy for successful sportspersons in the State, Secretary Youth Affairs and Sports, Naorem Praveen Singh, stated that a sports policy is under formulation.After the felicitation, the players expressed their happiness at the warm reception accorded to them by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh.One of the players remarked that the Chief Minister’s own experience as a Taekwondo player enables him to better understand the needs and aspirations of other sportspersons.During the interview, the players advised the younger generation to pursue their dreams and never give up. They also urged parents to support their children in pursuing their aspirations and encouraged young sportspersons to continue working hard and remain disciplined.Meanwhile, the Chief Minister earlier this month felicitated ace weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu and Wushu player Naorem Roshibina Devi on their return to the state after winning silver medals at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won a silver medal in the women&#039;s 48 kg category weightlifting, and Naorem Roshibina Devi won a silver medal in the women&#039;s Sanda 60 kg category.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/manipur-cm-felicitates-three-hockey-gold-medallists-from-state</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 21:37:30 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[White House asks Kimberly Guilfoyle to resign as US Ambassador to Greece]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/white-house-asks-kimberly-guilfoyle-to-resign-as-us-ambassador-to-greece</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Washington, October 13 (IANS) The White House has asked Kimberly Guilfoyle to resign as US Ambassador to Greece, a day after US President Donald Trump said he was considering firing her over reports of improper conduct.&quot;We have asked Ambassador Guilfoyle to resign. She has been a wonderful asset to the team, and we wish her well,&quot; new White House Press Secretary Katie Zacharia said on Tuesday at her first briefing.Zacharia was asked whether there was a timeline for Guilfoyle&#039;s removal and who might be on the shortlist to replace her. She did not give a timeline or name a possible successor, and did not say whether Guilfoyle had agreed to step down.&quot;Well, we&#039;re looking at it,&quot; Trump told reporters at the White House on Monday. &quot;We&#039;re not happy.&quot;As the briefing ended, a reporter asked whether Trump had spoken with Guilfoyle. Zacharia did not answer directly.&quot;The President will be back on Thursday, and that&#039;s what I will answer. I&#039;ll leave it there,&quot; she said, adding that Trump &quot;will answer those questions out in Marine One&quot; as he left for Alaska.Guilfoyle allegedly asked a businessman, Eric Deters, for USD 100,000 to pay her American Express bill in July 2025, while she was awaiting Senate confirmation, according to CBS News. The Wall Street Journal first reported text messages between the two.Deters described the request to CBS News as &quot;pay to play&quot;. CBS News reported that White House officials had been told the messages were authentic.Guilfoyle has denied wrongdoing. Her representatives said in a statement on October 12 that Deters owed her about USD 150,000 for speeches and consulting work done long before her ambassadorship, the BBC reported.Democrats on the Senate and House foreign affairs committees have called on the State Department to investigate her conduct in Greece. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was also reported to be unhappy with her.Guilfoyle, 57, is a former Fox News host and the former fiancee of Donald Trump Jr. She was previously married to California Governor Gavin Newsom.Trump named her Ambassador to Greece in December 2024, a month before he returned to the White House.Zacharia did not say who would lead the US embassy in Athens in the interim.]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/white-house-asks-kimberly-guilfoyle-to-resign-as-us-ambassador-to-greece</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 21:23:19 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[When Aditya Chopra told Anushka Sharma 'you’re not the most goodlooking girl']]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/when-aditya-chopra-told-anushka-sharma-youre-not-the-most-goodlooking-girl</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 13 (IANS) Did you know that actress Anushka Sharma was once given a brutal reality check by filmmaker Aditya Chopra during the initial days of her career?As she appeared on &#039;Koffee With Karan&#039;, Anushka opened up about the blunt advice from Aditya Chopra.Recalling the incident, the &#039;NH 10&#039; actress said, “I was on the fourth floor, in Aditya Chopra’s office. He just said, ‘Listen, I have a lot of belief in your talent. I think you are a very talented actress, but I don’t think you are very good-looking. You’re not the most good-looking girl, so you have to make sure that you work really hard. You’re on for Taani (her character in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi).”Anushka shared that before this, she used to believe she was extremely good-looking.Sharing how she reacted to the feedback, Anushka added, “When I left the office, I was very cool. I said &#039;thank you&#039;, and I was very proper. At one point, I stopped the car because I realised I was crying. I was crying so much. My parents were not in town, so I called my mom and I said, ‘I can’t believe this is happening right now&#039;.”She further admitted that she had faced several rejections before she bagged &#039;Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi&#039; opposite Shah Rukh Khan.“I used to think I am very, very good-looking. Like, ‘Haan, haan, aise toh main bhi lag sakti hoon (Yeah, yeah, even I can look like this).’ If I just have the right make-up and the right hair and all that. It’s only after I met Aditya Chopra that I saw myself on the monitor for the first time while shooting… I was in the dulhan ka joda (bridal attire). I saw myself the first time on screen, and I was like, ‘He is right. I am not that good-looking,” Anushka asserted.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/when-aditya-chopra-told-anushka-sharma-youre-not-the-most-goodlooking-girl</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 21:16:14 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Congress losing polls ever since Rahul Gandhi assumed leadership: Amit Shah]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/congress-losing-polls-ever-since-rahul-gandhi-assumed-leadership-amit-shah</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday lashed out at the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, who had asserted that he would continue the &quot;fight to restore democracy&quot; in the country, saying that his Congress has been losing polls ever since he assumed the party&#039;s leadership.Earlier in the day, the LoP hosted a tea party for INDIA bloc and civil society leaders, where they vowed to stay united in their fight against the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the NDA government over alleged electoral malpractices in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise as well as &quot;vote theft&quot;.Speaking to reporters, Amit Shah expressed gratitude to the people for the BJP&#039;s victory in Gujarat civic polls and also for the party winning the recently concluded bypolls.&quot;I want to tell Rahul Gandhi that even after 41 years, the Congress has not been able to win elections in Gujarat. They won the last election in the state in 1985 and have been losing since then. I want to ask him whether this is the result of the SIR? You refute the popularity of the BJP and of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and call it the result of SIR. You should rather introspect,&quot; he said.&quot;A territory which the Congress had always ruled, you have not been able to win any election in the past 41 years. This is a big issue that requires the party to do self-introspection.&quot;Referring to the results of the bypolls in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, HM Shah said: &quot;Congress has not won any seats in these elections. Rather, the BJP has snatched the seat from Congress in Nagaon.&quot;In Rajasthan too, the BJP gained a massive victory in the local body polls, he stated.&quot;These elections are a lesson for Rahul Gandhi,&quot; he remarked.Referring to the Tripura Gram Samiti elections, Amit Shah said: &quot;I also want to tell Rahul Gandhi that in Tripura, with 77.5 per cent polling, the NDA has been able to win more than 4,000 seats and among the 4,600 seats, the Congress has won only 14.&quot;Further referring to the Opposition&#039;s allegations against the EVMs, he said: &quot;These elections were held using ballot papers. So, the allegations that EVMs help the BJP to win elections are hence proved wrong.&quot;The Home Minister noted that for the past 33 years, Congress has been unable to win elections in Tripura and that the party has not won in West Bengal for 54 years.&quot;Congress has remained out of power for three to five decades in Bengal, Tripura, and Gujarat. I want to ask Rahul Gandhi whether this is the result of SIR because that process was started after 2024,&quot; he said.Sharpening his attack on Gandhi, HM Shah said: &quot;Since the time you emerged as a prominent leader of the Congress, and later on as the party President and LoP, the party has been continuously losing polls. Therefore, you should introspect.&quot;Referring to the LoP&#039;s &#039;Chhtron ki Goonj&#039; events, he said: &quot;By doing fabricated media events like &#039;Jhoot ki Goonj&#039;, you cannot win the trust of the citizens.&quot;The Home Minister also spoke about the INDIA bloc&#039;s protests in the last few days, saying: &quot;By gathering the cadres of 14 parties and gathering 8000 people within a radius of 1.5 km, you cannot become the voice of the nation.&quot;&quot;The voice of the country also exists in the villages, farms, mountains, forests, and even near rivers. You (Congress) don&#039;t have any reach there. There are many states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu where Congress has been defeated by the people for decades,&quot; he said.Shah asserted that the &quot;negative politics&quot; that the Congress is indulging in won&#039;t benefit the party. &quot;They should instead understand the people and connect with them,&quot; he advised.&quot;I want to tell Rahul Gandhi that his strategy to protect infiltrators through the SIR has been very well understood by the people, and they will now not fall into your trap. Also, I want to tell Rahul Gandhi to prepare himself for losing in the 2029 (Lok Sabha) polls,&quot; he stated.Expressing confidence, Amit Shah asserted that the NDA will gain a landslide victory in the 2029 general elections and Congress will again lose for the fourth straight time.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/congress-losing-polls-ever-since-rahul-gandhi-assumed-leadership-amit-shah</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:57:14 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[4th T20I: India eye series-clinching win against West Indies in Hyderabad run-fest]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/4th-t20i-india-eye-series-clinching-win-against-west-indies-in-hyderabad-run-fest</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Hyderabad, October 13 (IANS) India will look to seal the five-match T20I series when they take on the West Indies in the fourth match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Wednesday, with the high-scoring venue promising another batting spectacle after the hosts&#039; victory in Indore.India, who are leading the series 2-1, will look to maintain their current form and put pressure on the visitors, while the West Indies hope to make a comeback and keep the series alive.Since Hyderabad is a ground that favours batters and has short boundaries, both teams may once again be facing a high-scoring game. The place has seen several successful T20I chases of 208 and 187, and India once nearly exceeded the 300-run mark, ending up with the second-highest score in T20Is played between ICC Full Member countries.The city also hosts Sunrisers Hyderabad, which is one of the most aggressive batting teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), a team attitude exemplified by Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen.In Hyderabad, exceptional totals have been chased in recent domestic and franchise cricket, with the venue recording scores of 310, 297, 286 and 277 over the past two years.The pitch has recently been relaid, but the conditions are likely to be in favour of the batters, especially if dew plays a role in the second innings. Since there is no rain predicted, the match is set to proceed without interruption.India, on the other hand, will take into account their bowling problems after having to put up large totals during the tour. The hosts have admitted that their failure to defend their highest T20I total and their third-highest ODI score has been a concern.Even though the batting side has kept on performing well, India will hope that the Hyderabad wicket will provide their bowlers with sufficient help in order to keep a large total if they have to chase it.At the same time, the West Indies are not likely to be put off by the idea of a pitch that favours batting. Their attacking batting lineup would be helped by conditions that provide a more reliable bounce than those in Indore, where India had managed to defend a total.Since only one of the six matches played during the tour has seen the side that batted first win, the result of the toss and the possibility of dew may well be decisive.A major match between India&#039;s fast-opening batsman Abhishek Sharma and the West Indies off-spinner Roston Chase is possible, since Chase played a decisive part in the visitors&#039; win in Ranchi by getting rid of Abhishek, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer.India might keep the combination which had worked well in Indore, having chosen an extra seamer instead of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Even though spin was effective in that game, the home side may want the extra pace option on a wicket expected to give more help to the stroke players.At the same time, the West Indies will be keeping an eye on Romario Shepherd, since he picked up an injury during his bowling in Ranchi. Even though he did manage to bat in that match, the all-rounder was still excluded from the game in Indore. His availability would have given the visitors an additional seam bowler and useful depth in the lower order.A further interesting statistic involves Naman Dhir from India, since all of his five international wickets have been taken on the ball that follows immediately after he has conceded a six.This rare sequence highlights his ability to cope when he is attacked and might therefore make him a viable choice for India should the West Indies&#039; power hitters get going.India are confident about the tournament because of their recent form, having won four of their last five T20 matches, whereas the West Indies have alternated between wins and losses and have lost three of their most recent five games. Although the home side start as favourites, the visitors&#039; ability to score quickly makes them a dangerous opponent on a ground where large totals are by no means uncommon.When: Wednesday, Oct 14Where: Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, HyderabadWhere to watch: The match will be broadcast on Star Sports Network with live streaming on JioHotstar.Squads (from):India: Shreyas Iyer (c), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma (vc), Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav.West Indies: Shai Hope (c), Jewel Andrew, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Kamil Pooran, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/4th-t20i-india-eye-series-clinching-win-against-west-indies-in-hyderabad-run-fest</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:56:20 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[RIWATCH, KSC sign MoU for research, cultural preservation]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/riwatch-ksc-sign-mou-for-research-cultural-preservation</link>
                <description><![CDATA[KOHIMA, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): The Research Institute of World’s Ancient Traditions, Cultures and Heritages (RIWATCH), Arunachal Pradesh, and Kohima Science College (Autonomous), Nagaland, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on October 10 to promote academic cooperation, interdisciplinary research and the preservation of indigenous languages and cultural heritage in Northeast India.The agreement was signed at the RIWATCH campus in Khinjili, Roing, Arunachal Pradesh, by RIWATCH Executive Director Vijay Swami and Kohima Science College Principal Dr Temjenwabang.According to a press release, the partnership will focus on joint research, language documentation, cultural preservation, academic and student exchanges, resource sharing and community-oriented programmes centred on education and cultural sustainability.The collaboration seeks to strengthen institutional ties between Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh while facilitating research into the region’s histories, traditions and contemporary academic concerns.RIWATCH Executive Director Vijay Swami said the partnership marked a step towards connecting Northeast India through collaborative research, stressing the importance of institutional cooperation in preserving local communities’ histories and languages.He also shared the long-term vision of developing RIWATCH into a university, provisionally proposed as the University of World’s Ancient Traditions, Cultures and Heritages (UWATCH), to expand its educational reach.Kohima Science College Principal Dr Temjenwabang commended RIWATCH’s work in language documentation and cultural preservation. He described the MoU as more than a formal document, stating that it laid the foundation for a lasting partnership based on shared knowledge, mutual respect and a common commitment to enriching traditional knowledge across the region.The Kohima Science College delegation included Vice-Principal Kevilhuninuo Nagi; Dr Moarenla Longkumer, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Anthropology; Dr Mhathung Yanthan, Convenor of the Research and Development Centre; and Dr Lilongchem Thyug, Coordinator of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell.The RIWATCH delegation included Dr M S Awan, Centre Head of the RIWATCH Centre for Mother Languages; Dr Nandini Dholepat; Dr Karabi Baruah; and other faculty members and researchers.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/riwatch-ksc-sign-mou-for-research-cultural-preservation</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:47:49 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[39 nursing students take oath at DHD]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/39-nursing-students-take-oath-at-dhd</link>
                <description><![CDATA[DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): The College of Nursing, District Hospital Dimapur (DHD), held its second lamp lighting and oath-taking ceremony for BSc Nursing students at the Chapel Hall of DHD on October 13, with 39 students participating in the ceremony.Medical Superintendent of DHD, Dr George Thirah, exhorted the students to become nurses whom patients could trust and rely on for care. He urged them to be the kind of nurses patients look forward to receiving care from, rather than those they cannot wait to see the end of their shift. He also encouraged the students to pursue opportunities abroad after graduation, stating that they could work as competent nurses equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.Joint Director-cum-Registrar of the Nagaland Nursing Council, Tiakala Longkumer, shared her experiences as a student nurse and stressed the importance of compassion in an evolving healthcare environment shaped by artificial intelligence and advanced technology.&amp;nbsp;Prof Emi Humtsoe, Nursing Superintendent of the Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR), highlighted the significance of the Florence Nightingale Pledge. She noted that while nursing and the role of nurses had evolved over the years, the profession&#039;s core value remained “serving with humility and compassion.”Principal-in-Charge of the college, Dr Rachel Ao, spoke on the commitment and resilience required of students as they embarked on their professional journey. She called on them to prepare for the responsibilities that come with the nursing profession.The ceremonial lamp lighting and recitation of the Florence Nightingale Pledge were conducted by Assistant Professor Molungnenla Imchen. Assistant Professor Bendangrenla Jamir welcomed the dignitaries, while the programme was chaired by Pursangla I. Rev Yhunlo Thong, Chaplain of DHD, offered prayers and blessings for the newly inducted BSc Nursing students.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/39-nursing-students-take-oath-at-dhd</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:46:46 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Pakistan expanding military commitments in Middle East despite struggling to control several fronts]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/pakistan-expanding-military-commitments-in-middle-east-despite-struggling-to-control-several-fronts</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Islamabad, October 13 (IANS) Pakistan has been increasing its military commitments in the Middle East at a time when it is struggling to control the fronts it already possesses. In September, Pakistan conducted fresh airstrikes in Afghanistan while its other disputes remain unresolved, a report has detailed.On August 7, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement. Under the pact, an attack on any one country would be considered an attack on all three nations. The agreement reflected the shared commitment of the three nations &quot;to further strengthen their collective security and to promote peace, security, and stability in the region and beyond, in pursuit of a secure and prosperous future&quot;, a statement released by Pakistan&#039;s Ministry of Foreign Affairs mentioned.As Saudi Arabia&#039;s confrontation with the Houthis escalates, Pakistan has moved beyond diplomatic engagement towards providing military support. Pakistan has not yet decided to deploy its forces to fight in Yemen. Pakistan&#039;s involvement today can increase through defence commitments, military coordination, advisors and material support, without parliamentary accountability in which elected lawmakers decide where the red line of the country lies, according to the report in EU Reporter.&quot;The paradox is that Pakistan is expanding its military commitments in the Middle East at precisely the moment when it is struggling to control the fronts it already has. In late September, it carried out fresh air strikes inside Afghanistan, as confrontation with the Taliban government and the threat from the TTP have turned the western frontier into an active theatre of conflict. To the east, the fragile de-escalation with India following the serious military confrontation of 2025 remains under strain: while the dispute over the Indus Waters Treaty remains unresolved,&quot; Dimitra Staikou wrote in EU Reporter.&quot;Yet on October 5, Islamabad agreed with Turkey to the rapid deployment of military forces and capabilities to Saudi Arabia under the Mecca Pact, while Pakistani support for Riyadh’s operations against the Houthis has already moved beyond diplomatic solidarity to military equipment, advisers and operational assistance. A country conducting strikes across the Afghan border while managing an exceptionally fragile relationship with India is simultaneously choosing to expand its military obligations in the Gulf. Saudi Arabia has obvious reasons to want Pakistani military power; it is far less obvious what vital Pakistani interest is served by gradual involvement in yet another war. Here, the comparison with 2015 becomes even more damning,&quot; the author added.In 2015, Saudi Arabia had requested Pakistan to provide military support for its intervention in Yemen. At the time, Saudi Arabia&#039;s request was raised in Pakistan&#039;s parliament, where lawmakers chose neutrality, stressing that intervention in Yemen could damage Islamabad&#039;s ties with Tehran and spark tensions between Shia and Sunni communities in Pakistan.&quot;In 2026, by contrast, there is a danger that the ambitions of the military establishment — regional influence, strategic prestige and the army’s emergence as an indispensable security partner for the Gulf monarchies — are being presented as the interests of the country itself. But the interests of Pakistan’s generals are not, by definition, the interests of Pakistan. And when elected institutions no longer possess the same power to make that distinction, strategic overreach ceases to be merely bad foreign policy. It becomes a symptom of who really governs,&quot; Staikou wrote in EU Reporter.]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/pakistan-expanding-military-commitments-in-middle-east-despite-struggling-to-control-several-fronts</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:45:41 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Atoizu PHC awarded NQAS Certification]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/atoizu-phc-awarded-nqas-certification</link>
                <description><![CDATA[• &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Atoizu Town Council honours PHC team• &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Staffing shortages remain a concernAtoizu, October 13 (MExN): The Atoizu Primary Health Centre (PHC) has been awarded National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification, securing an overall score of 91.12% in an external assessment conducted on July 10 and 11, 2026.The certification was communicated by the National Health Systems Resource Centre on October 5.The Atoizu Town Council, led by Chairperson Kitoli Naje, felicitated the PHC team, led by Dr Gihuka Chishi, the lone Medical Officer, for the achievement, stated a press release.&amp;nbsp;Meanwhile, grievances concerning the facility highlighted shortages of nursing personnel and Medical Officers, along with a vacant pharmacist’s position following the retirement of the previous incumbent.The PHC is reportedly operating with only two nurses and one Medical Officer despite its 24-hour operational requirements. The staffing constraints underscore the need for continued support to sustain quality healthcare delivery in Atoizu.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/atoizu-phc-awarded-nqas-certification</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:45:37 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Longleng ADC issues directions on stray dogs]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/longleng-adc-issues-directions-on-stray-dogs</link>
                <description><![CDATA[LONGLENG, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): The Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Longleng, Thungchanbemo Tungoe, NCS, has directed all dog owners in Longleng town to keep their dogs secured within their premises and on a leash whenever taken outside, with immediate effect.A circular issued by the ADC stated that a large number of dogs have been roaming freely in the town, causing public nuisance, scattering garbage on the streets and creating unhygienic conditions, besides posing potential risks to public safety. The circular stated that the directions were issued in the interest of “public health, cleanliness and safety.”It further informed that the Longleng Town Council would undertake necessary measures to control free-roaming dogs within its jurisdiction. Dogs found roaming unattended in public places may be captured and handled in accordance with applicable animal welfare laws and regulations.Owners may also be liable to penalties, wherever authorised under the applicable rules, and other appropriate action as per law. All concerned have been directed to comply with the order immediately.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/longleng-adc-issues-directions-on-stray-dogs</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:45:03 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Nagaland: News in brief]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-news-in-brief-october13-26</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Longleng ADC directs removal of construction materials from roadsLONGLENG, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): The Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Longleng, Thungchanbemo Tungoe, NCS, has directed individuals, contractors and property owners to remove construction materials dumped or stored on public roads, streets, footpaths and other public spaces in Longleng town within two days of the order’s issuance. A circular from the ADC said &amp;nbsp;materials including sand, stones, bricks, timber and other building supplies have been obstructing the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, besides affecting the town’s cleanliness and appearance. It stated that failure to remove the materials within the stipulated period would result in the Longleng Town Council removing them without further notice. The cost of removal would be recovered from the persons responsible, wherever permissible under applicable law.Public cautioned against entering Sathari firing rangePHEK, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): The public and nearby villagers have been cautioned against entering the firing range at Sathari, below the 5th NAP Camp in Phek, during the annual classification firing scheduled for October 13 and 14. A notice issued through the DIPR, Phek informed that ‘B’ Company of the 14th Nagaland Armed Police (IR) Battalion, stationed at Phek, will conduct the annual classification firing over the two days. The public has been advised not to go near the firing range and to ensure that domestic animals are not let loose in the area during the firing period.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/nagaland-news-in-brief-october13-26</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:43:42 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Creativity in the Age of AI]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/creativity-in-the-age-of-ai</link>
                <description><![CDATA[&amp;nbsp;Vishü Rita KrochaEven as our world becomes increasingly driven by highly developed Artificial intelligence (AI), the boundary between AI and reality is rapidly blurring. There seems to be just a thin line separating the two.&amp;nbsp;At the rate it is growing, it has almost become impossible to distinguish between content that is “real” and “artificial.” Our digital lives are flooded with this reality. And it can&#039;t just be a temporary phase because AI is expected to keep growing exponentially.&amp;nbsp;But while AI can replicate human tone, and do a lot of other things, we also know that it lacks originality, emotional connection and genuine human experience. As a matter of fact, if you take a close look at all the AI contents flooding our digital spaces, whether it is a piece of writing, a work of art, an image, a song or a video, you also begin to see a pattern, and it’s all devoid of the real human connection.At the end of the day, it is just a tool that people either choose to embrace or ignore. Research indicates that AI can be of enormous help especially in terms of structuring vast amounts of data, and perhaps, it would do us well to use AI intensively wherever it can support us as a smart tool.But despite the way AI has invaded and impacted our lives, it still remains a tool, and nothing more. It cannot compete with human creativity. And this is something that humanity will always have and which, AI does not possess. It should continue to matter that we create from lived experiences.Human creativity matters more than ever in the age of artificial intelligence because only human beings can provide real emotions, real taste, real feelings, real connection and real &#039;everything&#039;.We all value what is real. Real human experiences are what make us truly alive. Even in small instances like receiving a handmade card, or a handcrafted gift. The value associated with such things is always so much more valuable than what can be generated in a matter of seconds.&amp;nbsp;As a writer rightly put it, “We don’t value human creations solely for their beauty or their price tag. We also value them because they embody deliberate labour and expertise.”Ultimately, it is not whether something is perfect that matters, but its ability to connect us with another human being that makes more sense even with all its imperfections. And this is something AI can never give us. With AI, perfection is easy. But being human is what we must consistently strive for.This is a guest editorial by Vishü Rita Krocha. She is the Publisher of PenThrill Publication and a senior journalist based in Kohima.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Editorial
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/creativity-in-the-age-of-ai</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:37:17 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Good Drivers Save Money..!]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/good-drivers-save-money</link>
                <description><![CDATA[“You pay your driver how much?” asked my neighbour, looking as though I had just announced I was financing his daughter’s wedding.“A little more than the usual.”“Why?”“Because I am fond of my gearbox!”The other day, at a friend’s house, I heard a sound that suggested somebody was feeding steel cupboards into a mixer.“What was that?” I asked.“My driver changing gears,” said my friend, grimacing.His expensive car stood outside, probably wondering whether it could apply for a transfer.“New car?” I asked.“Yes!”“Old driver?”“Very economical fellow!”I suspected the fellow’s economy would soon be enjoyed by the mechanic.Now, my cars are not particularly new. Nobody sees me arriving and whispers, “There goes a man who has made it!” Occasionally, they whisper, “There goes a car that has made it!”But they last.I believe one reason is that the chap driving them treats them well. He understands that the clutch is not a footrest, the brakes are not musical instruments, and a pothole is something to avoid rather than explore.A good driver saves money in ways that never appear on his salary slip.The trouble is that we study salaries with a magnifying glass and repair bills through tears.“Saved two thousand on the driver!” we announce proudly.“Spent twenty thousand on repairs!” we whisper privately.Then we blame the car.This cheerful arithmetic extends into our homes and businesses.We want someone to run our kitchen efficiently, care for our home responsibly, or look after customers patiently. But when salary is discussed, we suddenly become poverty stricken philosophers.“Money isn’t everything,” we tell the employee.Naturally, when our own payment is delayed, money becomes everything immediately.Fair pay does not automatically manufacture competence. Choose carefully. But when you find someone reliable, recognise the value of keeping them.The old saying goes, “Pay peanuts and you’ll get monkeys.”Though I suspect even monkeys would now demand a festive bonus and Sundays off.And during this festive shopping season, apply the same thinking to products.A bargain shirt is less impressive when, after its first wash, it fits your grandson.A cheap appliance that needs repeated repairs is simply an expensive appliance collecting its money in instalments.Do not assume the costliest item is the best. But check quality, durability and service before letting a discount do all your thinking.Ask what something will cost over the years, not merely what it costs today.My neighbour still thinks I pay my driver too much.His mechanic, meanwhile, seems delighted with his own arrangement.Yesterday, he told me his car needed another major repair.“What should I do?” he asked.“Pay a little more attention to the man behind the wheel!”Because the cheapest salary can produce the dearest bill, and sometimes the smartest saving begins with paying somebody what they are worth..!The Author conducts an online, eight session Writers and Speakers Course. If you’d like to join, do send a thumbs-up to WhatsApp number 9892572883 or send a message to bobsbanter@gmail.com]]></description>
                <category>
                        Infocus , Bob’s Banter
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/good-drivers-save-money</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:36:14 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA['Stop blaming SIR for electoral routs, prepare for 2029 defeat': HM Amit Shah tears into Rahul Gandhi, Congress]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/stop-blaming-sir-for-electoral-routs-prepare-for-2029-defeat-hm-amit-shah-tears-into-rahul-gandhi-congress</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched a no-holds-barred attack on Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and the Congress, dismissing their repeated allegations against the electoral process as an attempt to cover up a string of humiliating poll defeats. &amp;nbsp;Rubbing salt into the Opposition&#039;s wounds following the BJP&#039;s sweeping victory in Gujarat&#039;s civic elections, Shah challenged Gandhi to explain whether the Congress would blame the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls for its latest electoral rout as well.In a blunt warning to the Congress leadership, he said: &quot;2029 mein haar ka mann bana lein (Make up your mind to face defeat in 2029)&quot;, asserting that the people had seen through the party&#039;s alleged attempts to shield infiltrators under the pretext of opposing SIR.He questioned whether the Congress would blame the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls for its crushing defeat in the Gujarat civic elections as well.Asking Gandhi to introspect rather than find excuses for repeated electoral setbacks, Shah said the people had seen through the Congress&#039; attempt to use the SIR controversy to “protect infiltrators” and “undermine the electoral process”.Delivering a sharp political message to the Congress leadership, the Home Minister said: &quot;The party should prepare itself for another massive defeat in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.&quot;&quot;The BJP-led NDA would return to power with a thumping majority under Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#039;s leadership,&quot; he added.Taking a swipe at Gandhi over his protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Shah questioned the Opposition&#039;s continued attempts to attribute its electoral failures to the revision of voter lists (SIR).He pointed out that the current SIR exercise began only after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, whereas the Congress had been losing elections under Gandhi&#039;s leadership.&quot;Will Rahul Gandhi now say that the Congress lost Gujarat because of SIR?&quot; Shah asked, questioning whether the party would continue to blame the electoral process for every defeat instead of examining its own political shortcomings.The Home Minister&#039;s attack came after the BJP registered a sweeping victory in Gujarat&#039;s civic elections, winning 38 of the 44 seats in the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation. The BJP also retained control of the Thara and Okha municipalities.Shah said the results reflected the continued confidence of Gujarat&#039;s voters in Prime Minister Modi&#039;s leadership. He highlighted that the BJP&#039;s vote share in the Gandhinagar civic body had increased by 10 percentage points.Taking a dig at the Congress&#039; electoral record in Gujarat, he said the party last won the state in 1985 and had failed to regain its political footing even after 41 years.He also targeted the Aam Aadmi Party, claiming that its candidates forfeited their deposits on all 32 seats it contested in the Gujarat civic elections.Shah argued that the Congress&#039; electoral setbacks were not confined to Gujarat and cited results from several states to underline what he described as the party&#039;s declining political relevance.Referring to bypolls in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, he said the Congress failed to win even a single seat. In Assam&#039;s Nagaon, the BJP wrested the Lok Sabha seat from the Congress, while in West Bengal, the BJP registered a victory in Nandigram and wrested the Rejinagar seat from the opposition, he claimed.In Puducherry, he cited the victory of an All India NR Congress candidate backed by the NDA as another example of the ruling alliance&#039;s electoral momentum.Shah also highlighted the BJP&#039;s performance in Rajasthan&#039;s local body elections, claiming that the party won 90 per cent of the Municipal Corporation seats, 66 per cent of the Municipal Council seats, and 65 per cent of the Municipal Board seats.Referring to the Gram Samiti elections in Tripura, he said the NDA won around 4,000 of the total 4,600 seats. Particularly emphasising that these elections were conducted through ballot boxes, Shah took a swipe at those who question the credibility of the electoral process whenever they face defeat.He further said that the Congress had failed to win in Tripura for 30 years and in West Bengal for 56 years, questioning how the party could continue to attribute its electoral failures to the functioning of democratic institutions.Sharpening his attack on Gandhi, Shah said the BJP had consistently been winning elections since the Congress leader became the party&#039;s prominent face and Leader of the Opposition.He also dismissed Gandhi&#039;s efforts to bring Opposition parties together, saying that assembling workers from 14 political parties and gathering a crowd of 8,000 people did not automatically make someone the voice of the country.&quot;The voice of the country is in its villages, fields, forests and far-flung areas,&quot; Shah said, asserting that the Congress leadership had failed to understand the mood of ordinary voters.He also cited electoral defeats suffered by the Congress in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, arguing that the party&#039;s political narrative was increasingly disconnected from the people&#039;s mandate.On the SIR controversy, Shah alleged that the Congress was opposing the exercise not out of concern for genuine voters but to protect infiltrators. He claimed that the public had understood the party&#039;s political strategy and would reject such attempts.The Home Minister urged Gandhi and the Congress to undertake serious introspection instead of questioning constitutional institutions and blaming electoral processes for their repeated defeats.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/stop-blaming-sir-for-electoral-routs-prepare-for-2029-defeat-hm-amit-shah-tears-into-rahul-gandhi-congress</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:31:51 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[EPFO urges eligible entities to avail of exempt status ahead of amnesty deadline]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/epfo-urges-eligible-entities-to-avail-of-exempt-status-ahead-of-amnesty-deadline</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) With less than three months remaining before the amnesty window deadline, the Employees&#039; Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) on Tuesday urged eligible establishments pan-India to expedite their submissions for retrospective regularisation of exempt status.The amnesty window remains open for a period of six months from the date of notification on July 11, 2026, expiring on December 28, 2026, according to an official statement.Provisions for amnesty were introduced as a transitional measure in the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) Scheme 2026, notified on June 29 this year. These provisions offer a one-time opportunity for regularisation of the exemption status of Provident Fund (PF) Trusts that are recognised under the Income Tax Act but lack a formal exemption order granted under Section 17 of the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act or the Code on Social Security.Besides retrospective regularisation of exempt status, key benefits under the scheme include waivers of statutory requirements under the Code on Social Security -- such as minimum employee headcount, corpus size, and the 3-year compliance rule -- along with complete operational flexibility post-regularisation to comply either as an exempt or an un-exempt establishment, the statement said.To ensure maximum awareness, the EPFO has rolled out extensive multi-channel initiatives across the country.Strategic meetings and seminars have been conducted in collaboration with apex industry and market bodies, including the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). Chartered Accountants and statutory auditors have been specifically engaged to identify and assist qualifying PF Trusts. In parallel, EPFO Zonal and Regional Offices pan-India have organised nationwide seminars and workshops to engage directly with local establishments, employers, and trust members, supported by multi-media campaigns, social media outreach, and explanatory infographics simplifying procedural compliance guidelines, the statement explained.To support applicants effectively, the Exemption Division (Head Office) has conducted dedicated hybrid training programmes for EPFO field officials posted across the country. In addition, dual-track institutional and employer training has been carried out both through online modules and physically at the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya National Academy of Social Security for departmental officers and employers alike.Furthermore, the EPFO has actively coordinated with the Income Tax Department to institutionalise data sharing of exempted establishment records. This data integration focuses on identifying, cross-verifying, and bringing unnotified or non-compliant PF trusts under the statutory umbrella, while ensuring that tax-recognised trusts without formal EPFO exemption orders regularise their status promptly. EPFO Regional Offices nationwide continue active follow-ups to facilitate the submission of regularisation applications within the stipulated timeframe.Eligible PF Trusts across India are advised to avail of this one-time opportunity to enable continuance of income tax benefits available to trusts recognised by the Income Tax Department, the statement added.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/epfo-urges-eligible-entities-to-avail-of-exempt-status-ahead-of-amnesty-deadline</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 20:06:42 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Saudi-led coalition warns civilians in Sanaa to evacuate ahead of ‘special operation’]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/saudi-led-coalition-warns-civilians-in-sanaa-to-evacuate-ahead-of-special-operation</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Riyadh, October 13 (IANS) The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said on Tuesday that it would issue a warning for civilians to evacuate a site in the Houthi-held Yemeni capital Sanaa ahead of a &quot;special operation.&quot;Coalition spokesman Turki Al-Maliki said on social media platform X that the warning would be issued shortly, without providing further details about the site or the operation.Also on Tuesday, the coalition said it had intercepted and destroyed three drones north of the Saudi capital Riyadh, Xinhua News Agency reported.Yemen&#039;s Houthi group said Monday evening that it had launched a new ballistic missile strike on King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital Riyadh, while Tehran reiterated its readiness to facilitate dialogue between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis.Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a statement that the group targeted the Riyadh airport with a ballistic missile, claiming the missile &quot;accurately hit&quot; the target.He said the group also launched a drone attack on King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait, southwestern Saudi Arabia, claiming a direct hit.Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition said in a statement that its forces had intercepted and destroyed a Houthi ballistic missile fired toward Riyadh on Monday evening.Explosions were heard in the Saudi capital around the time of the reported attack, and residents received alerts via mobile apps.The escalation has sparked mounting regional and international concern.At a weekly press conference on Monday, Iran&#039;s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran has &quot;repeatedly expressed readiness to use our good offices to facilitate dialogue between the (warring) parties.&quot;His remarks came a day after Iran&#039;s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, in a phone conversation with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah Al Saud on Sunday, voiced Iran&#039;s readiness to provide &quot;any kind of assistance&quot; to help initiate dialogue between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis.]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/saudi-led-coalition-warns-civilians-in-sanaa-to-evacuate-ahead-of-special-operation</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 19:33:20 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[United in fight against EC, Centre: INDIA bloc leaders after Rahul hosts tea meet]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/united-in-fight-against-ec-centre-india-bloc-leaders-after-rahul-hosts-tea-meet</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) The INDIA bloc leaders on Tuesday vowed to stay united in their fight against the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the BJP government over alleged malpractices in the Special Intensive Exercise (SIR) of electoral rolls as well as &#039;vote theft&#039;.In a joint press conference attended by the Opposition parties, all the leaders vowed to stay together and intensify their fight for the ‘restoration’ of democracy.The tea meet was held at Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi’s residence in the capital and was attended by INDIA bloc leaders, student activists and civil society members.Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge hailed the high turnout at the protest march on Monday, stating that all leaders of the INDIA Bloc have taken the people’s issues seriously and the result of this was visible yesterday.“Rarely have people taken to the streets in such large numbers,” he said over the vast turnout of protesters on Delhi streets.RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said, “We are all united to protect democracy, and whatever sacrifices are required, we will make them.”“The fear in the government is evident from the fact that the traditional protest venue – Jantar Mantar has been debarred. But those who attempted to hijack the country’s constitutional institutions won’t be able to save themselves,” he said.NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule said, &quot;We stand firmly with the INDIA bloc. The Constitution has been undermined, and it is under threat in the country today. That is why our fight will continue.&quot;Stepping up the heat on the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), TMC MP Sagarika Ghose said, &quot;Every day, it is becoming clearer that the EC is undermining free and fair elections in India. As long as the Gyanesh Kumar-led Election Commission continues, there will not be free and fair elections in India.&quot;The joint press conference followed a tea meeting hosted by the LoP Rahul Gandhi at his residence at 5, Sunehri Bagh Road. While announcing the tea-meet, a day after street protests, Gandhi vowed that the movement “to protect democracy” would continue relentlessly.Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Rahul reiterated that democracy and constitutional institutions were under threat under the current regime and the key mission of the INDIA bloc protest is the “restoration of democracy”.“Democracy has been destroyed in this country. The election system has been destroyed. The Constitution has been torn up and thrown away. We are fighting together to restore democratic rule, genuinely democratic rule, in the country,&quot; he asserted.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
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                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/united-in-fight-against-ec-centre-india-bloc-leaders-after-rahul-hosts-tea-meet</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 19:24:07 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[How much rain can a hurricane make, and does the storm size matter?]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/how-much-rain-can-a-hurricane-make-and-does-the-storm-sizematter</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Zachary Handlos, Georgia Institute of TechnologyCurious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.How much rain can a hurricane make, and how much do big versus small hurricanes make? – Naarah, age 8, PittsburghHurricanes can produce enormous amounts of rain, adding up to trillions of gallons of water. But the big risk isn’t their total amount – it’s how much rain falls on each location.One town in Texas got over 60 inches (152 centimeters) of rain from Hurricane Harvey over five days in 2017. That means empty swimming pools there would have filled with rainwater 5 feet (1.5 meters) deep. Hurricane Lane dumped 58 inches (147 centimeters) of rain on Kahuna Falls, Hawaii, the following year.So, what causes that much rain, and does the size of the storm matter?I’m an atmospheric scientist who teaches college students about weather at Georgia Tech. Let’s take a look at where a hurricane’s rainfall comes from and some of the questions about hurricanes and their rainfall that scientists are still trying to answer.First, what goes into creating a hurricane?A few ingredients are needed for a hurricane to form: A tropical thunderstorm complex, lots of moisture in the air, winds that don’t change speed much with height, and warm sea surface waters below.The water temperature is very important.Sea surface temperatures on Oct. 6, 2026, show the very warm water in the western Gulf of Mexico, where a tropical storm grew into Hurricane Isaias the following day. Water that is over 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.5 degrees Celsius) can fuel hurricanes. NOAAThe magic number for surface water temperature to be able to fuel a hurricane is at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.5 degrees Celsius). At that temperature and above, the warm ocean water evaporates into the air, changing from liquid to vapor. As it makes that change, it provides energy to fuel the storm and also adds moisture to the atmosphere that eventually falls as rain.When a hurricane moves over warm water, especially when the warm water extends many feet below the surface, the storm pulls in even more energy and moisture.What affects hurricane size and rainfall?This is one of the many questions about hurricanes that atmospheric scientists are working on.The average hurricane is about 300 miles (482 kilometers) wide, but hurricanes – or typhoons, as they’re called in the western Pacific of the Northern Hemisphere – can be much bigger or smaller.Super Typhoon Tip in 1979 grew to half the size of the lower 48 U.S. states. It had a radius of about 690 miles (1,110 kilometers), measured from the center of the storm to its outer edges, meaning it was 1,380 miles (2,222 kilometers) wide. Tropical Storm Marco’s gale-force winds in 2008, in comparison, had a radius of 11.5 miles (18.5 kilometers), meaning it was about 23 miles (37 kilometers) across – not much larger than New York City.How the largest tropical cyclone in recorded history and the smallest compare. It’s quite a difference! NOAAIn 2025, scientists published a study showing that hurricane size appears to be influenced by how warm the ocean water is compared to its usual temperature that time of year. So, if a hurricane moves over water that is much warmer than normal, it tends to grow in size rapidly as well as growing in strength.A recent hurricane that was very large in size was the extremely destructive Hurricane Helene in 2024. As Helene moved over water near Florida that was much warmer than normal for late September, it picked up lots of moisture that it carried all the way to the mountains of North Carolina. Several days of rain from the storm caused catastrophic flooding there.A satellite image shows Hurricane Helene making landfall on Sept. 26, 2024, near Perry, Fla. The storm carried a lot of water far inland, causing flooding in the North Carolina mountains. NOAA National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information ServiceBut don’t count the small hurricanes out.Just because a hurricane is small, that does not mean that it won’t have a big impact.Hurricane Andrew in 1992 was destructive yet small. Its strongest winds extended only about 90 miles (150 km) from its center when it reached Miami and the Everglades. But that Category 5 hurricane is still known as one of the strongest hurricanes to hit the United States. It destroyed more than 25,000 homes.Hurricane Andrew wasn’t very big when it made landfall on Elliott Key, Fla., near Miami, on Aug. 24, 1992, but it was powerful and extremely destructive. National Hurricane CenterA strong storm isn’t necessary for a lot of rain to fall. Tropical Storm Allison in 2001 is still one of the wettest tropical weather events in U.S. history. It caused over US$4 billion in damage in Texas alone, and it didn’t even develop into a hurricane!So, what really leads to the highest rainfall totals?Hurricanes that move slowly or nearly stop along their path usually cause the biggest rainfall problems because their rain keeps falling over the same location. The rain may be just as intense in a fast-moving hurricane, but it doesn’t stick around as long.An example is Hurricane Harvey, which hit southeastern Texas in late August 2017. The storm dropped an estimated 27 trillion gallons of water over the state – that’s enough to fill about 40 million Olympic-size swimming pools.When Harvey stalled over the Houston area, the storm kept drawing moisture from the warm waters of the Gulf. Over four days, it brought precipitation that totals as high as 60.58 inches (1.54 meters) of rain over Nederland, Texas. The extreme rainfall overran the town’s drainage and transformed Nederland into an island.The Houston area received extraordinarily high precipitation totals from Aug. 25 through Sept. 1, 2017, associated with Hurricane Harvey. National Weather Service, Lake Charles, La., officeIf a storm moves fast, like Hurricane Michael did in 2018 when it hit the Florida Panhandle, its winds and storm surge can make a big mess, but its rainfall totals will be lower.Michael was a Category 5 hurricane – more powerful than Harvey and Helene – but its rainfall totals for locations along its path ranged from 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 centimeters) because it was moving so fast. That’s still a lot of rain, but not compared to Harvey or to Helene, which dumped 30 inches (76 centimeters) of rain on Busick, N.C., over a few days.Hurricane Michael passes over Mexico Beach, Fla., on Oct. 10, 2018. The storm moved quickly, so it brought less rainfall to each location compared to slow-moving Hurricane Harvey in Texas the previous year, but its wind and storm surge caused catastrophic damage. NOAA NESDISSo, a hurricane can be large or small in size and still have a big impact, depending on how slowly it’s moving.There is still a lot to learn about hurricanes. Some big questions involve what’s known as rapid intensification. That occurs when a tropical storm’s maximum wind speed increases quickly, by 30 knots (about 34.5 miles per hour or 55 kilometers per hour) or more within 24 hours.When rapid intensification occurs, as happened with hurricanes Harvey, Michael and Helene before they hit land, the storm can surprise coastal residents and become catastrophic.Hurricanes of all sizes can be dangerous, so accurate forecasting well before they reach land is crucial to help people prepare for their impacts. One very important area of research that today’s scientists – and future scientists – can work on is improving forecasting so coastal residents know what’s coming and have time to prepare.Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live.And since curiosity has no age limit – adults, let us know what you’re wondering, too. We won’t be able to answer every question, but we will do our best.Zachary Handlos, Atmospheric Science Educator, Georgia Institute of TechnologyThis article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Morung Learning
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/how-much-rain-can-a-hurricane-make-and-does-the-storm-sizematter</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 19:21:45 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Scholarship Roundup: Orober 14-2026  S]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/scholarship-roundup-orober-14-2026-s</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Scholarship Name 1: &amp;nbsp;WINGS — Women INspiring Growth in STEM Scholarship Program&amp;nbsp;Description:&amp;nbsp;IIT Bombay’s Alumnus Bharat Desai and his wife, Neerja Sethi, have launched an initiative at IIT Bombay to encourage women in STEM, named &amp;nbsp;WINGS — Women INspiring Growth in STEM Scholarship Program.&amp;nbsp; This initiative aims to break financial barriers and champion women’s education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.Eligibility:&amp;nbsp;Students not availing any other government tuition grant or scholarship.The scholarship will continue for students maintaining a 6.0 CPI or higher.Prizes &amp; Rewards:&amp;nbsp;The scholarship covers tuition fees (Rs 2 lakhs per annum) for women students meeting the above eligibility criteria.Last Date to Apply:&amp;nbsp;31-10-2026&amp;nbsp;Application mode:&amp;nbsp;Online Application Only&amp;nbsp;Short Url:&amp;nbsp;www.b4s.in/tme/WINGS2QR Code:&amp;nbsp;https://dle9eg0t055l3.cloudfront.net/static/images/scho-media/wings-women-inspiring-growth-in-stem-scholarship-program1791265653.pngScholarship Name 2: &amp;nbsp;Concentrix Scholarship Program 2026-27&amp;nbsp;Description:&amp;nbsp;The Concentrix Scholarship Program 2026-27 supports Pan-India female students in the first year of an MBBS program at government medical colleges, offering financial assistance of up to INR 65,000 per year to ease the cost of medical education and enable them to complete their course.Eligibility:&amp;nbsp;Applicants must have successfully completed their Grade 12 board examination.The annual parental income of the applicant must not exceed INR 5 lakh from all sources.Prizes &amp; Rewards:&amp;nbsp;Scholarship of up to INR 65,000 per year covering institution fees, examination fees, books, stationery, equipment, and other academic costs.Last Date to Apply:&amp;nbsp;30-10-2026&amp;nbsp;Application mode:&amp;nbsp;Online Application Only&amp;nbsp;Short Url:&amp;nbsp;www.b4s.in/tme/CTXSP1QR Code:&amp;nbsp;https://dle9eg0t055l3.cloudfront.net/static/images/scho-media/concentrix-scholarship-program-2026-271791265656.pngScholarship Name 3: &amp;nbsp;Infocepts Innovate for Impact Scholarship 2026-27&amp;nbsp;Description:&amp;nbsp;The Infocepts Innovate for Impact Scholarship 2026-27, a CSR initiative of Infocepts Foundation, is now open for applications. The scholarship supports meritorious engineering students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds with support of up to INR 50,000 per year for four years .Eligibility:&amp;nbsp;Open to undergraduate Computer Engineering, IT, AI, ML, or Data Science students (Any year) with 60% in Class 10 and 12, family income up to INR 6 lakh, studying/domiciled in Nagpur, Pune, Chennai, or Bengaluru.Prizes &amp; Rewards:&amp;nbsp;Selected students will receive scholarship support of up to INR 50,000 per academic year for a maximum period of four years, subject to annual renewal and continued eligibility.Last Date to Apply: &amp;nbsp;30-10-2026&amp;nbsp;Application mode:&amp;nbsp;Online Application Only&amp;nbsp;Short Url:&amp;nbsp;www.b4s.in/tme/INFO3QR Code:&amp;nbsp;https://dle9eg0t055l3.cloudfront.net/static/images/scho-media/infocepts-innovate-for-impact-scholarship-2026-271791265666.pngScholarship Name 4: &amp;nbsp;Satya Scholarship Program 2026&amp;nbsp;Description:&amp;nbsp;The Satya Scholarship Program 2026, an initiative of Nehru Sidhant Kender Trust, offers 100% annual course fee coverage along with accommodation and meal support to eligible students pursuing 3–5-year undergraduate or integrated master&#039;s programmes in Medical &amp; Health Sciences. The scholarship is available to students from Punjab admitted to 12 selected institutes in Ludhiana district and to students from Ludhiana district admitted to select Top NIRF-Ranked Medical institutions across India.Eligibility:&amp;nbsp;Open to first-year students in 3 to 5-year undergraduate or integrated master&#039;s courses in MBBS, BDS, BPT, B.Sc. (Nursing), B.Sc. (Allied and Healthcare).Must have passed Class 12 Board Exam from a recognised board in Punjab with at least 60% aggregate.Students from Punjab who have secured admission to the above courses at the 12 selected institutes in Ludhiana district are eligible.Students from the Ludhiana district who have secured admission to the above courses at select Top NIRF-Ranked Medical institutions across India are also eligible.Annual parental income must not exceed INR 8 lakh; guardian income limits apply for orphans.Applicants must be Indian citizens and not recipients of any other educational scholarship.Note: Preference for girl students, sportspersons, persons with disabilities (PwD), orphans, and children of single parentsPrizes &amp; Rewards:&amp;nbsp;100% annual course fee coverage for the entire course duration, with additional support for hostel, accommodation, and meals as per program guidelines.Last Date to Apply: &amp;nbsp;31-10-2026&amp;nbsp;Application mode:&amp;nbsp;Online applications only&amp;nbsp;Short Url:&amp;nbsp;www.b4s.in/tme/SAT4QR Code:&amp;nbsp;https://dle9eg0t055l3.cloudfront.net/static/images/scho-media/satya-scholarship-program-20261790043867.pngScholarship Name 5: &amp;nbsp;DXC Progressing Minds Scholarship for Graduation Students in STEM 2026-27&amp;nbsp;Description:&amp;nbsp;The DXC Progressing Minds Scholarship for Graduation Students in STEM 2026-27, a CSR initiative by DXC Technology, supports women and transgender students pursuing undergraduate STEM studies across India.Eligibility:&amp;nbsp;Open to women and transgender students pursuing graduation in a STEM-related field.Minimum 60% (or equivalent) marks in the last semester/year is required.Annual family income from all sources must not exceed INR 4,00,000.Students from PAN India are eligible.Children of DXC Technology and Buddy4Study employees are ineligible.Prizes &amp; Rewards:&amp;nbsp;INR 50,000 (one-time, fixed amount)Last Date to Apply: &amp;nbsp;15-10-2026&amp;nbsp;Application mode:&amp;nbsp;Online applications only&amp;nbsp;Short Url:&amp;nbsp;www.b4s.in/tme/DXCS8QR Code:&amp;nbsp;https://dle9eg0t055l3.cloudfront.net/static/images/scho-media/dxc-progressing-minds-scholarship-for-graduation-students-in-stem-2026-271790043709.pngScholarship Name 6: &amp;nbsp;Santoor Scholarship Program 2026-27&amp;nbsp;Description:&amp;nbsp;Santoor Scholarship Program 2026-27 aims to support the undergraduate studies of young women from disadvantaged backgrounds in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.Eligibility:&amp;nbsp;Currently studying in the first year of their course.Completed their Class 12 from a government school/junior college in 2025-26.Must have completed their Class 10 from a local government school.Children of employees of Buddy4Study, Wipro, and Santoor are not eligible.Prizes &amp; Rewards:&amp;nbsp;One-time scholarship amount of INR 30,000 (fixed)Last Date to Apply: &amp;nbsp;15-10-2026&amp;nbsp;Application mode:&amp;nbsp;Online applications only&amp;nbsp;Short Url:&amp;nbsp;www.b4s.in/tme/SWS9QR Code:&amp;nbsp;https://dle9eg0t055l3.cloudfront.net/static/images/scho-media/santoor-scholarship-program-2026-271790043676.pngScholarship Name 7: &amp;nbsp;National Fellowship Scheme for Scheduled Caste Students (NFSC) 2026&amp;nbsp;Description:&amp;nbsp;The National Fellowship Scheme for Scheduled Caste Students (NFSC) 2026 is being offered by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.&amp;nbsp;It provides&amp;nbsp;financial assistance to SC students pursuing higher education in Science, Humanities, or Social Sciences.Eligibility:&amp;nbsp;Applications are&amp;nbsp;open to students from the Scheduled Caste categories&amp;nbsp;as&amp;nbsp;listed by the respective state governments. Applicants must be enrolled in full-time, regular M.Phil. or Ph.D. programs at the UGC-recognised universities or research institutions. Additionally, they must have qualified in either the National Eligibility Test (NET) or the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE).Prizes &amp; Rewards:&amp;nbsp;Up to ₹42,000 per month and other benefits.Last Date to Apply:&amp;nbsp;20-12-2026&amp;nbsp;Application mode:&amp;nbsp;Offline via merit-based selection of UGC-NET-JRF or UGC-CSIR NET-JRF exam&amp;nbsp;Short Url:&amp;nbsp;www.b4s.in/tme/NFSC1QR Code:&amp;nbsp;https://dle9eg0t055l3.cloudfront.net/static/images/scho-media/national-fellowship-scheme-for-scheduled-caste-students-nfsc-20261791265674.pngScholarship Name 8: &amp;nbsp;Bajaj Finserv Scholarship Program FY 2026-27&amp;nbsp;Description:&amp;nbsp;The Bajaj Finserv Scholarship Program FY 2026-27 aims to support high-potential students pursuing Management (MBA/PGDM/PGP) and Technology (B.E./B.Tech., M.E./M.Tech.) courses, offering scholarship support of up to INR 10 lakh per year to help them build future-ready careers.Eligibility:&amp;nbsp;Open to first-year MBA/PGDM/PGP/B.E./B.Tech./M.E./M.Tech (For Tech, Applicable Courses are: Computer Science, IT, AI/ML, Data Science, or Statistics.)Must have secured a minimum of 75% marks or equivalent in Class 10 and 12.Students from top 25 NIRF-ranked colleges will be considered for this scholarship, with students from the top 10 NIRF-ranked colleges given preference.Annual parental income up to INR 15 lakh.Prizes &amp; Rewards:&amp;nbsp;Scholarship of up to INR 10,00,000 per year*, based on course category and fee-linked slab.Note: The scholarship support will be provided on a per-year basis for the duration of the course, subject to the student continuing to meet the applicable renewal criteria.Last Date to Apply:&amp;nbsp;15-10-2026&amp;nbsp;Application mode:&amp;nbsp;Online applications only&amp;nbsp;Short Url:&amp;nbsp;www.b4s.in/tme/BFAS2QR Code:&amp;nbsp;https://dle9eg0t055l3.cloudfront.net/static/images/scho-media/bajaj-finserv-scholarship-program-fy-2026-271791207911.png]]></description>
                <category>
                        Morung Learning
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/scholarship-roundup-orober-14-2026-s</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 19:20:46 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Quiz #527]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/quiz-527</link>
                <description><![CDATA[1. At 39.5%, what was the most common reason for overnight travel in Nagaland, according to the first-ever National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) 2025–26?a. Seeking employmentb. Setting up a businessc. Socialising, religious activities etc&amp;nbsp;d. Unpaid domestic services2. Which was the first public institution in Nagaland to launch an online RTI portal?a. Chief Electoral Office, Nagalandb. Economics and Statistics Departmentc. Gauhati High Court, Kohima Benchd. Taxes Department3. Which of the following awards was Phelem Konyak recently conferred with?a. National Change Maker’s Award 2026b. National Trailblazer Award 2026c. National Change Creator Award 2026d. National Pioneering Educator Award 20264. When is World Mental Health Day observed annually?a. October 10&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;b. October 11c. October 12&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;d. October 135. How many medals did India win at the 20th Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, where it finished fourth in the medal standings?a. 37&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;b. 45c. 85&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;d. 90This contest is open ONLY for students. Previous winners of the Competition are not eligible for &amp;nbsp;the prize*.&amp;nbsp;Cut and send in your answers along with your name, class and name of institution to The Morung Express Office,&amp;nbsp;H/No.4, Duncan Basti, Dimapur.You can also email the answers to morunglearning@gmail.com or WhatsApp/SMS @ 8787846184Answers to Quiz #526: 1. B; 2. A; 3. B; 4. D; 5. AWinner: Rebecca&amp;nbsp;Mezhur Higher Secondary School Kohima&amp;nbsp; &amp;nbsp; &amp;nbsp;Each week, one lucky winner will be awarded a gift worth&amp;nbsp;Rs. 500. The winner may collect the prize or redeem any product/good worth the same from Joyce Complex, G-Sports, Shop No. 14/15, Second Gate, NH-29, Chümoukedima (Or) Belho Complex, Near Classic Island, PR Hill, Kohima&amp;nbsp;*Winner should bring along a valid ID to claim the prize.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Morung Learning
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/quiz-527</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 19:19:16 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[The Decline of  Critical Thinking]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/the-decline-of-critical-thinking</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Never before has so much information been available to so many people at such little cost. Today, a student sitting in a classroom in Nagaland can listen to lectures from universities around the world, read the news, learn a new skill, and find answers to almost any question within seconds. A smartphone has become a library, a classroom, a newsroom, and sometimes even a source of advice.&amp;nbsp;But there is something worth asking: are we becoming better thinkers, or simply becoming better at finding information?We live in a time when knowing something is easier than ever. If we do not know something, we search for it. If we want to learn, we watch a video. If we hear a claim, we can look it up within seconds.This easy access to information is among the greatest advantages of our generation. &amp;nbsp;The problem begins when we mistake information for understanding. &amp;nbsp;We scroll, watch, react, and move on.Sometimes we form an opinion before we have even understood what we are reacting to. We may know many things, yet fail to ask a simple question: Is this really true, and why do I believe it?This is clearly evident in our news consumption. &amp;nbsp;A headline appears on our screen and, within moments, people begin commenting, sharing, and arguing. Often, the headline is all they have read. A short video may show only one part of an incident, yet people quickly decide who is right and who is wrong.We have seen this happen even with issues close to home in Nagaland. When an incident becomes widely discussed on social media, different versions of the same story can circulate quickly. A photograph, a short clip, or a forwarded message can create a strong reaction before the facts are properly established.&amp;nbsp;This is not simply a problem with social media. It is also a problem with our habits.The internet rewards speed. The faster something catches our attention, the more likely we are to stop and look at it. Anger, fear, and controversy often attract more attention than careful explanation. As users, we can easily become part of this cycle without noticing it.There is also another side to this problem. We sometimes use technology to avoid thinking for ourselves. Instead of struggling with a difficult question, we immediately search for a quick answer.Rather than reading a full article, we settle for a summary, opting for quick reactions over proper conversations. &amp;nbsp;Convenience is undeniably useful, but too much convenience can make us intellectually impatient.&amp;nbsp;This does not mean technology is making our generation unintelligent. That would be an unfair conclusion. Young people today have access to knowledge, opportunities, and ideas that previous generations could not easily reach. A student from a small town can learn from experts across the world. Even with limited resources, anyone can learn music, coding, languages, or other complex skills online.&amp;nbsp;The real question is what we do with that access.Information becomes useful only when we know how to examine it. We need to distinguish between fact and opinion, evidence and assumption, information and misinformation. Most importantly, we need to become comfortable with saying, “I don&#039;t know yet.”That simple sentence requires humility.Critical thinking does not mean doubting everything. It means being willing to ask questions before accepting something as true. Who said this? What evidence supports it? Is there another side to the story? Am I believing this because it is true, or simply because it agrees with what I already think?Many of our parents and grandparents grew up with very little, without the luxury of having everything available at the touch of a screen. If they wanted something, they had to wait, save, work for it, or simply learn to live without it. Without easy alternatives for life&#039;s basic necessities, sustained effort and resourcefulness were unavoidable.It would be an oversimplification to claim that earlier generations had it better.&amp;nbsp;Their lives were difficult in ways our generation may not fully understand, and we have opportunities they did not have. Nonetheless, their resilience and resourcefulness still hold vital lessons for the present.&amp;nbsp;Today, we often casually compromise on things that should matter. We give up too quickly, change our minds too easily, or choose immediate convenience over what is right for us in the long run.Perhaps having so many choices has something to do with it. If one thing fails, another option is always ready. &amp;nbsp;Lacking that luxury, the older generation had to be patient, deliberate, and committed to making things work, knowing there was rarely an easy way back.We do not have to live as they lived- the world has changed- but having more choices, comfort, and information should not make us forget how to be patient, hardworking, careful, and content.These qualities matter beyond personal life- shaping how we treat people, make decisions, and eventually contribute to our communities. Young people are not only consumers of information; we are also becoming the people who will shape our communities, institutions, and public life.Perhaps the real challenge before us is that having more information than any generation does does not, by itself, make a person wise; we still have to learn to listen, think, work, wait, question, and sometimes admit we were wrong. We do not need to reject technology or return to the way things were, but simply ensure that modern convenience does not take away the qualities that make life meaningful.&amp;nbsp;Maybe, in a generation that can find an answer to almost anything within seconds, one of the most important things we can learn is to take our time before deciding what to believe, what to value, and how to live. &amp;nbsp;Degree of Thought is a weekly community column initiated by Tetso College in partnership with The Morung Express. Degree of Thought will delve into the social, cultural, political, and educational issues around us. The views expressed here do not reflect the opinion of the institution. Tetso College is a NAAC-accredited, UGC-recognised Commerce and Arts College. The editorial team includes Tenipumei Phom, Asst. Professor Dept. of English, Limajungla Walling, Asst. Professor Dept. of Linguistics, and Munkiri Taro, Multimedia Executive. For feedback or comments, please email: dot@tetsocollege.org]]></description>
                <category>
                        Morung Learning , Degree of Thoughts
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/the-decline-of-critical-thinking</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 19:18:10 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Assam tea workers to get special 20 pc bonus ahead of Durga Puja: Himanta Biswa Sarma]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/assam-tea-workers-to-get-special-20-pc-bonus-ahead-of-durga-puja-himanta-biswa-sarma</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Guwahati, October 13 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday announced a special bonus of 20 per cent for tea garden workers across more than 800 tea estates in the state ahead of Durga Puja, describing the initiative as a festive gift for the tea community.In a post on social media platform X, CM Sarma said the bonus would help tea workers celebrate the festival with their families and participate in the festivities during the Navratri and Durga Puja period.&quot;On the sacred occasion of Navratri, a gift of joy for the brothers and sisters of our tea community,&quot; the Chief Minister said in his post on X.He added that the special 20 per cent bonus would be distributed across more than 800 tea gardens in Assam before Durga Puja to ensure that workers could enjoy the celebrations with their loved ones.The announcement underlines the state government&#039;s focus on the welfare of tea garden workers, a significant section of Assam&#039;s workforce whose contribution remains central to the state&#039;s tea industry and economy.Assam is one of India&#039;s leading tea-producing states, with tea estates spread across the Brahmaputra and Barak valleys.The industry provides employment to a large workforce, including generations of workers living in tea garden settlements.Festival bonuses are an important source of additional income for tea workers, helping them meet increased household expenditure during major celebrations.The announcement is expected to bring relief to eligible workers preparing for the festive season.Durga Puja, celebrated with particular enthusiasm across Assam and other parts of eastern India, follows the nine-day Navratri festival and is marked by community gatherings, religious ceremonies and cultural programmes.Chief Minister Sarma&#039;s announcement comes ahead of the festival period, when demand for household goods, clothing and other essential items typically rises as families prepare for celebrations.However, details regarding the precise distribution schedule, the eligibility criteria for workers and the arrangements for implementing the special bonus across the tea estates were not immediately available.The announcement is expected to be closely watched by tea garden workers and industry stakeholders as the state prepares for the festive season.]]></description>
                <category>
                        North-East
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/assam-tea-workers-to-get-special-20-pc-bonus-ahead-of-durga-puja-himanta-biswa-sarma</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 18:31:04 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Air India Express cancels flights to Saudi cities till Oct 17 amid security concerns]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/air-india-express-cancels-flights-to-saudi-cities-till-oct-17-amid-security-concerns</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) Air India Express on Tuesday suspended flights to and from Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh until October 17, citing the evolving security situation in the region.The airline said affected passengers are being offered complimentary rescheduling options or a full refund in case of cancellations.The carrier added that it is closely monitoring developments before taking any further decisions on operations.“In view of the evolving situation in the region, we have cancelled flights to and from Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh until 17 October. Affected guests are being offered complimentary rescheduling or a full refund on cancellation. We continue to monitor the situation closely,” an Air India Express spokesperson said.The suspension comes amid escalating security concerns in Saudi Arabia following drone and missile strikes that targeted airport infrastructure in the region.The developments have prompted airlines to reassess operations and prioritize passenger safety.Air India Express is among the carriers that have taken precautionary measures as authorities continue to evaluate the impact of the attacks on aviation and regional security.Earlier this week, Air India extended the suspension of its flights to and from Riyadh until October 15 after repeated attacks on Saudi Arabia&#039;s capital airport by Yemen&#039;s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels.The disruption has also prompted other Indian carriers, including IndiGo, Air India Express and Akasa Air, to cancel services to affected destinations in Saudi Arabia.The latest attacks have intensified disruptions across the region, with airlines continuing to revise schedules amid heightened tensions linked to the broader conflict involving Iran and the United States.Saudi authorities have kept Riyadh airport shut for the time being following the strikes and subsequent security threats.Besides Air India, several Indian carriers have suspended operations to Saudi Arabia.IndiGo has extended the cancellation of its flights to Riyadh and Dammam until October 15.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/air-india-express-cancels-flights-to-saudi-cities-till-oct-17-amid-security-concerns</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:45:26 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Marion Cotillard is the jury head for 23rd Marrakech International Film Festival]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/marion-cotillard-is-the-jury-head-for-23rd-marrakech-international-film-festival</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Los Angeles, October 13 (IANS) Actress Marion Cotillard, who is known for her work in ‘Inception’, ‘A Private Affair’, ‘Midnight in Paris’, ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ and others, has been roped in at the jury head for the upcoming edition of the Marrakech International Film Festival.On Tuesday, the festival organisers took to their Instagram, and made the announcement, as they shared her picture.They wrote in the caption, “Academy Award-winning French actor Marion Cotillard will preside over the Jury at the 23rd Marrakech International Film Festival, leading the selection of the Étoile d’Or from among the first and second feature films in this year’s Official Competition”.They added, “Throughout her career, Cotillard has carved out a path of remarkable breadth, driven by a commitment to excellence and a curiosity that have led her to explore a wide range of cinematic traditions, genres, and forms. From Jacques Audiard and the Dardenne brothers to Christopher Nolan and James Gray, her collaborations reflect a singular journey through contemporary cinema. As President of the Jury, she will turn her attention to a new generation of filmmakers and the debut works shaping the future of cinema”.The actress said in a statement, “I have been fortunate enough to attend the Marrakech International Film Festival since its very beginnings; I’ve had wonderful experiences there and met some truly remarkable people”.She further mentioned, “Supporting filmmakers as they take their first steps is a vital part of what this festival is all about, it’s in its DNA, and it is a great joy for me to chair the jury this year”.The 23rd Marrakech International Film Festival is set to be held from November 20 to November 28, 2026.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/marion-cotillard-is-the-jury-head-for-23rd-marrakech-international-film-festival</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:41:37 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[RBI likely to continue steps to curb rupee volatility: FM Sitharaman]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/rbi-likely-to-continue-steps-to-curb-rupee-volatility-fm-sitharaman</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to continue deploying measures to limit excessive volatility in the foreign exchange market as the rupee faces pressure from global developments, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Tuesday.Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum here, the minister said the central bank&#039;s priority was to ensure orderly market conditions rather than defend a specific exchange rate.&quot;The RBI is making significant efforts through its regulatory tools to ensure stability in the rupee. They are not trying to fix the rupee at any particular level,&quot; she said.&quot;My understanding is that these efforts will continue,&quot; adds FM Sitharaman.Her statement comes days after the central bank unveiled a package of measures aimed at calming currency markets following a slide in the Indian rupee.Earlier in October, the central bank opened a special dollar liquidity window for state-owned oil marketing companies, tightened rules governing the rebooking of cancelled foreign-exchange derivative contracts and reduced the threshold for certain derivative transactions without underlying exposure from $100 million to $5 million.However, the measures appeared to reassure markets, with the rupee strengthening to close at 95.78 per dollar on Monday.FM Sitharaman said policymakers remained focused on maintaining strong macroeconomic fundamentals through fiscal discipline and adequate foreign exchange reserves, arguing that much of the recent weakness in the currency stemmed from factors beyond India&#039;s control.&quot;The depreciation of the rupee over the last one-and-a-half years has been significant and measures have been taken,&quot; she said.&quot;But several factors contribute to it, and I believe most of them arise from challenges outside the country,&quot; according to her.On Tuesday, the rupee appreciated by 77 paise to 95.05 in early trading hours against the American currency.While reiterating confidence in India&#039;s economic fundamentals, the minister said the central bank was likely to remain vigilant and take additional steps if necessary to prevent disruptive movements in the currency market.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/rbi-likely-to-continue-steps-to-curb-rupee-volatility-fm-sitharaman</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:39:33 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Chümoukedima DPDB discusses road connectivity, sanitation]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/chmoukedima-dpdb-discusses-road-connectivity-sanitation</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Chümoukedima, October 13 (MExN): The District Planning &amp; Development Board (DPDB) meeting of Chümoukedima district was held at the DC’s Conference Hall, Chümoukedima, on October 12, under the chairmanship of Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs &amp; Chairman, DPDB Chümoukedima, Zhaleo Rio.&amp;nbsp;Advisor, Industries &amp; Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, also attended the meeting, stated a DIPR report.&amp;nbsp;Addressing the meeting, Chairman DPDB, Zhaleo Rio informed the house that the upgradation of the DC Conference Hall would be taken up by December. He stressed the need for proper maintenance of roads in both urban and rural areas, improved sanitation and better road connectivity, particularly between Chümoukedima and Kohima, keeping in view the upcoming Hornbill Festival.On the issue of society registration raised by the Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO), he stated that the DPDB would consider the demands and share the same view with the CPO. While discouraging the proliferation of societies and unions, he emphasised that genuine organisations should not be victimised.Deputy Commissioner, Chümoukedima, Polan John, NCS, while reviewing the previous DPDB meeting minutes, informed the house that the estimate for the widening of the road and construction of a drainage system from NH-29 to the Chathe River at 7th Mile Model Village, Chümoukedima, had been forwarded to PWD(R&amp;B) for further action. He apprised the house of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise and the progress of its implementation.He also informed the house that the District Administration, Chümoukedima, in collaboration with the Department of Power, would organise a Seva Setu Camp from October 14 to 16 at the Deputy Commissioner&#039;s Office Complex, Chümoukedima, to facilitate rooftop solar installations under the Prime Minister Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. He said that the camp would assist eligible residential households through on-the-spot sensitisation, registration and application processing for rooftop solar installations.Speaking on the proposed upgradation of schools, Advisor Hekani Jakhalu, highlighted the need to address the shortage and distribution of teachers in government schools. While acknowledging the financial constraints faced by the government, she stressed that children should not suffer due to inadequate educational facilities. She urged officers to work collectively for the progress of the district and make additional efforts towards improving public service delivery.She highlighted Chümoukedima&#039;s potential as a sericulture belt and stressed the need to strengthen market linkages for products from the district. She called for greater departmental intervention beyond training, including capacity building and sustained engagement with farmers, to help bring their products to the market.On the agenda concerning society registration, after scrutiny and deliberation, the board recommended the registration of the Old Boys Association of Sainik School, located at Ward-10, Chümoukedima.Regarding school upgradation, the board recommended the upgradation of Government High School, Dhansiripar, to a Higher Secondary School, while urging the concerned department to ensure adequate provision of teachers. The proposal to upgrade Government Middle School, Seitheke Basa, to a Government High School was also approved and recommended by the house.The board further recommended the upgradation of the Health and Wellness Centre at Sovima to a Primary Health Centre.The board also discussed on the correct usage and spelling of the name Chümoukedima, an issue raised by the CPO, the house decided to recommend to the government that the spelling be corrected and re-notified in the official notifications, with the letter &#039;ü&#039; formally recognised to ensure the correct spelling of the district&#039;s name.The proposal for the construction of a drainage system at Sovima Village was also taken up, and the house decided to recommend the matter to the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) for further action.PowerPoint presentations were made on the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and the TB Ni-kshay Mitra initiative by District Tuberculosis Officer, Dr Mlato Shikhu. District Sericulture Officer, Mayanjala Walling, also presented an overview of the schemes implemented by the Sericulture Department. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from the chair.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/chmoukedima-dpdb-discusses-road-connectivity-sanitation</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:32:48 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[JCF to register & monitor Hostels, PGs]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/jcf-to-register-monitor-hostels-pgs-in-dimapur</link>
                <description><![CDATA[DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): The Joint Council Forum (JCF), comprising Middle Point Council, Churches Colony Council, NST Colony Council, Nyamo Lotha Colony Council and Khermahal Area Council, has announced plans to register and monitor hostels and paying guest (PG) accommodations within its jurisdiction amid complaints of late-night disturbances and inadequate supervision.In a statement, the JCF said it had received complaints regarding “late-night disturbances, drunken brawls, unrestricted entry and exit, unauthorized gatherings and lack of adequate supervision” in such establishments. While acknowledging their role in providing residential facilities, the Forum stated that “no establishment can operate without responsibility, discipline and compliance with law when public safety, neighbourhood peace and student welfare are at stake.”The JCF said it would initiate systematic registration, review and monitoring of all hostels and PG accommodations under its jurisdiction. Owners and operators have been asked to cooperate with guidelines to be issued by the Forum in coordination with competent authorities.The proposed framework will cover mandatory registration, maintenance of resident records, responsible management, regulation of timings and visitors, safety measures and periodic compliance inspections. Violations may be referred to law enforcement authorities where necessary, it added.Clarifying the purpose of the proposed measures, the Forum said they were “intended solely to ensure safety, accountability and orderly residential management” and were not targeted at any individual or group. The JCF called on all operators to regularise their establishments and act responsibly, stating that “community safety and public order cannot be compromised for commercial interests.”&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/jcf-to-register-monitor-hostels-pgs-in-dimapur</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:31:36 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Kiphire workshop seeks to boost HPV vaccination among girls]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/kiphire-workshop-seeks-to-boost-hpv-vaccination-among-girls</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kiphire, October 13 (MExN): A district-level coordination workshop to strengthen human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and prevent cervical cancer was held at District Hospital, Kiphire, on Monday, with a focus on protecting 14-year-old girls.More than 50 participants attended the workshop, including district administration officials, frontline health workers, youth groups, women’s associations, school representatives, faith-based leaders, community leaders and other stakeholders.In his opening remarks, District Immunisation Officer (DIO) Dr Yelo T Mero urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure that no eligible girl in the district was left out of the vaccination drive.He said the single-dose HPV vaccine was safe, available free of cost and accessible at government health facilities across the district. Cervical cancer was preventable, and every girl in Kiphire should be protected against the disease, he added.Medical Superintendent of District Hospital, Kiphire, Dr C Kezo said the hospital supported the ongoing HPV vaccination campaign and appealed to families to bring their 14-year-old daughters for vaccination.He said the vaccine was available free of cost at the hospital and urged parents to ensure that their daughters were protected against cervical cancer.During an interactive session, participants discussed ways to build trust in the vaccine and reach parents in their respective communities with clear and factual information.Parents seeking further information were encouraged to contact their local Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) or visit the nearest health centre. Mero emphasised that parental consent and trust were central to the campaign’s success.Participants pledged to disseminate accurate information in their communities, address myths surrounding the vaccine and encourage parents to get their eligible daughters vaccinated.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/kiphire-workshop-seeks-to-boost-hpv-vaccination-among-girls</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:31:01 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Kohima reviews solid waste management rules]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/kohima-reviews-solid-waste-management-rules</link>
                <description><![CDATA[KOHIMA, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): Waste segregation at source is to be made mandatory in Kohima, with vehicles carrying unsegregated waste not being permitted to unload, the Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) CEO, Alemyapang Longchar, NCS, informed during a review meeting on October 12.The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, NCS, at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, reviewed the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Rules in the district. Longchar highlighted the KMC’s ongoing information, education and communication programmes across wards to promote waste segregation and proper disposal.He also outlined plans to streamline waste collection through designated collection points and fixed timings, while strengthening community participation and enforcement. The meeting discussed mandatory segregation of waste at source, strengthening waste collection and processing infrastructure, promoting recycling, reducing dependence on landfills and ensuring accountability among waste generators.Longchar stressed the importance of “accurate digital reporting and timely updating of data on the centralised online portal.” He called for technical guidance and training for local bodies to improve reporting and compliance, besides dedicated staff to ensure continuity in sanitation management.The meeting identified inadequate waste-processing infrastructure, limited public awareness, financial constraints, gaps in data reporting and coordination among stakeholders as key challenges.Buchem suggested organising a dedicated workshop with resource persons to address issues concerning implementation of the rules. He observed that a workshop involving relevant stakeholder departments would provide a platform for discussion, improve coordination and help identify practical solutions for effective solid waste management in the district.Officials from the district administration, Urban Development, Rural Development and PHED, among others, attended the meeting.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/kohima-reviews-solid-waste-management-rules</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:29:01 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Mount Mary College students visit children’s home, rehabilitation centre]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/mount-mary-college-students-visit-childrens-home-rehabilitation-centre</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Chümoukedima, October 13 (MExN): The Department of Psychology of Mount Mary College and Higher Secondary School organised visits to El Shaddai Children Home and Shalom Rehabilitation Centre on October 10 to promote mental health awareness and help students understand the experiences of children and individuals undergoing rehabilitation.The initiative was organised under the theme “Lived Experiences, Heard Real Voices and Real Changes” to encourage emotional expression and promote awareness of mental health and well-being.At El Shaddai Children Home, the department conducted a brief mental health awareness programme, followed by interactive activities that encouraged children to express their feelings, share their thoughts and recognise the importance of emotional well-being and seeking support.The activities provided a friendly and supportive environment for communication and participation, the college said.During the visit to Shalom Rehabilitation Centre, staff briefed the students on the centre’s history, mission and daily functioning.An interactive session with residents followed, during which they shared their experiences of addiction and recovery. The discussion highlighted the importance of emotional support, understanding and sustained efforts in the rehabilitation process.The visits provided students with an opportunity to connect theoretical knowledge with real-life experiences relating to mental health, emotional well-being and recovery.The interactions also reinforced the importance of empathy, compassion and creating supportive spaces where individuals feel heard and understood, the college said.Through the initiative, the Department of Psychology sought to bridge classroom learning with practical experiences and encourage a more informed and empathetic approach to mental health and social well-being.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/mount-mary-college-students-visit-childrens-home-rehabilitation-centre</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:28:05 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Phek Government College launches annual La Fete 2026]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/phek-government-college-launches-annual-la-fete-2026</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Phek, October 13 (MExN): Phek Government College inaugurated its annual college fest, La Fete 2026, under the theme “Talents differ; All is Well and Wisely Put” at Deo Nukhu Hall on October 13.Manish Bhartiya, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Phek, attended the inaugural programme as the special guest and formally inaugurated the four-day fest, scheduled from October 13 to 16.&amp;nbsp;In his address, Bhartiya recalled his active participation in school and college events, saying these experiences helped him overcome his fears and shaped his personality and character. He encouraged students to seize opportunities to showcase their talents among their peers and make use of the resources and guidance available to develop their skills.He also reminded students that learning is a continuous process and urged them to treat every experience as an opportunity to learn.The welcome note was delivered by Dr Shurhonuo Tsurho, Assistant Professor in the Department of English and convenor of Literary, Cultural and Performing Arts. She welcomed the special guest, faculty members and students and spoke on the significance of the fest&#039;s theme.&amp;nbsp;The inaugural programme also featured the display of group flag designs and an oath-taking ceremony, followed by war cry and folk song competitions.The second session featured poetry, extempore speech, outdoor traditional games, art and fashion, solo performances, storytelling and choir competitions. The choir competition included student renditions of songs by ABBA.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/phek-government-college-launches-annual-la-fete-2026</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:27:15 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Pranab College hosts Nagaland Cyber Tour Phase 2]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/pranab-college-hosts-nagaland-cyber-tour-phase-2</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): Pranab College, Dimapur, hosted Nagaland Cyber Tour Phase 2 on October 12 to raise awareness among students about cyber safety, online security and responsible digital practices.The programme was organised by the college’s Cyber Cell in collaboration with MMB Cyber School and in partnership with Nagaland Police, Dimapur.The event began with a welcome address, followed by an awareness session by Noune-ü Nancy Sophie, executive secretary of MMB Cyber School, who highlighted the importance of staying safe in the digital world.The programme also recognised the college’s participation through the presentation of an appreciation certificate to Pranab College.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/pranab-college-hosts-nagaland-cyber-tour-phase-2</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:25:02 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Sao Chang College holds first-ever Lumina Fest]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sao-chang-college-holds-first-ever-lumina-fest</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Tuensang, October 13 (MExN): Sao Chang College, Tuensang, held its first-ever college festival, Lumina Fest 2026, on October 8 and 9 at the college campus, featuring literary, artistic and cultural competitions.The two-day festival provided students with a platform to showcase their talents and creativity through various competitions. Student-run stalls and an art and handicraft exhibition were also among the highlights, attracting students, teachers and guests.The inaugural programme on October 8 was chaired by Nchembeni, a fifth-semester BA student of the Department of Political Science. Sangli Chipen, finance secretary of the Evangelical Union, offered the prayer, while college Vice Principal Dr Lal Veda Chandra Kumar delivered the welcome address.The Student Support Committee made a special presentation to Sungmo, the third topper in BSc Multidisciplinary, in recognition of the student&#039;s academic achievement. Langnyei Imlichuba Phom, assistant professor, presented the concept note of the festival.The first day featured poetry slam, extempore speech and short film competitions, followed by solo and group singing events after the lunch break. The student-run stalls and exhibition provided opportunities for students to display their entrepreneurial initiative, creativity and artistic skills.The second day&#039;s programme, held on October 9, was chaired by Mughapu Sumi, a third-semester BA student of the Department of History. The competitions included solo dance, drama and cosplay, followed by group dance and an upcycled fashion show after the lunch break.Before the prize distribution, the college marked the institution of the Dr Chandrika Singh Excellence Award in honour of its former Vice Principal, Dr Chandrika Singh.The award was instituted by Dr Santosh Singh and Dr Nirmala Singh, daughter of Dr Chandrika Singh, to recognise and encourage academic excellence among students of the Department of English.College Principal Dr Lanurenla formally presented the award to Dr Santosh Singh and Dr Nirmala Singh in recognition of their initiative in instituting it.The results of the various competitions were subsequently declared, recognising the achievements of the participants. K Chongliu, a member of the organising committee, delivered the vote of thanks.The festival concluded with a jam session scheduled from 4.30 pm to 5.30 pm.The inaugural edition of Lumina Fest marked a milestone in the college&#039;s campus life, providing students with opportunities to explore their creative potential, build confidence and participate in activities beyond the classroom. The festival also highlighted the importance of holistic education, student participation and nurturing talent, the college said.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sao-chang-college-holds-first-ever-lumina-fest</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:24:26 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[US Consulate Kolkata marks 250th anniversary of American Independence]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/us-consulate-kolkata-marks-250th-anniversary-of-american-independence</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kolkata, October 13 (MExN): US Ambassador to India Gor and West Bengal Finance Minister Dr Swapan Dasgupta joined guests at ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.The event, part of the US Mission to India’s Freedom 250 celebrations, was held on October 12 and hosted by US Consul General in Kolkata Kathy Giles-Diaz, who welcomed senior government officials, business leaders, diplomats, and representatives of civil society from across eastern and northeastern India.Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Gor highlighted the growing US-India partnership and the tangible results it is delivering for both countries, an update received here stated.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;“Tonight, we celebrate 250 years of American freedom: the freedom to build, to compete, and to win. And here in Kolkata, we also celebrate a US-India partnership that is delivering real results for both of our nations. The United States and India are trusted partners, and the opportunities ahead of us are incredible,” he said.&amp;nbsp;“From trade and technology to security and the Quad, we are working together to build a more prosperous and secure future for both of our peoples,” Ambassador Gor added.Consul General Giles-Diaz said the occasion was a reaffirmation of shared values. “It is a privilege to celebrate this historic 250th anniversary here in Kolkata. This is more than a commemoration of the past - it is a reaffirmation of the values of liberty, self-government, and unity that continue to unite the American people, and a reminder of the deep and growing ties between the United States and India,” she said.&amp;nbsp;Finance Minister Dr Dasgupta extended congratulations on behalf of the West Bengal government. “It’s a privilege to be a part of the special occasion commemorating the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America.”The evening featured performances by the US Navy Band Orient Express and aerial performances, with Musician 3rd Class Katie Grace Stephenson performing the national anthems of India and the United States.The celebration reflected Kolkata&#039;s more than two centuries of ties with the United States. Across its 11-state consular district, the US Consulate General Kolkata works with partners to expand trade and investment, strengthen educational and cultural connections, and deepen people-to-people ties between the two nations.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/us-consulate-kolkata-marks-250th-anniversary-of-american-independence</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:22:33 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Wokha DPDB sets Nov 15 deadline for Wokha–Merapani road works]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/wokha-dpdb-sets-nov-15-deadline-for-wokhamerapani-road-works</link>
                <description><![CDATA[WOKHA, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): The District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) Wokha has set November 15, 2026, as the deadline for completion of the Wokha–Merapani road project, following a review of progress by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) on October 13.The monthly DPDB meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Wokha, chaired by Advisor and DPDB Chairman Mhathung Yanthan, accompanied by MLA Mhonbemo Humtsoe and co-chaired by DPDB Vice Chairman and Deputy Commissioner K Mhathung Tsanglao.During the meeting, NHIDCL officials presented updates on maintenance works along the Wokha–Merapani road, including drainage clearance, jungle cutting and pothole filling. Yanthan directed the engineers and contractors to maintain strict quality standards and ensure proper workmanship. NHIDCL assured the board that the project would be completed by November 15, 2026.The board also discussed poor signal reception of All India Radio Wokha and resolved to appeal to higher authorities for a “full-fledged upgradation” of the station. The Education Department presented a PowerPoint highlighting challenges facing government schools, including low enrolment attributed largely to rural-to-urban migration, infrastructure deficiencies and systemic issues.The meeting also discussed upcoming departmental sports events, with an emphasis on participation and coordination. Yanthan stressed the importance of regular attendance at DPDB meetings and directed all Sub-Divisional Officers, Block Development Officers and Border Magistrates to ensure consistent participation.The meeting began with a review of the previous month’s agendas and the progress made on them.&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/wokha-dpdb-sets-nov-15-deadline-for-wokhamerapani-road-works</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:21:05 +0530</pubDate>
                <enclosure type="image/webp" length="52572" url="https://morungexpress.com/uploads/2026/10/58549234_1791892265_thumb_80189928_1791892265_DPDB Wokha (2).jpg"/>

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                <title><![CDATA[Special camps held at 189 booths in Kohima]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/special-camps-held-at-189-booths-in-kohima</link>
                <description><![CDATA[KOHIMA, OCTOBER 13 (MExN): Special camps are being conducted at 189 polling booths across Kohima district to facilitate electors and address issues relating to their inclusion in the electoral rolls, as part of an initiative to ensure that no eligible voter is left out.Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer (DEO), Kohima, B Henok Buchem, NCS, has urged the public to report any complaints or difficulties concerning the electoral roll revision process. Electors can approach any of the 189 Booth Level Officers (BLOs), seven Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) or six Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) in the district for assistance.The DEO reaffirmed the district administration’s commitment to ensuring that “every eligible voter is included in the electoral rolls and that no eligible elector is excluded.”&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/special-camps-held-at-189-booths-in-kohima</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:20:20 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Political unity must translate into measurable outcomes, says LJP]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/political-unity-must-translate-into-measurable-outcomes-says-ljp</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Dimapur, October 12 (MExN): The Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) has asserted that the unprecedented opposition-less political arrangement in Nagaland must move beyond symbolic legislative harmony and translate into a transparent, time-bound development roadmap.In a strongly worded press statement, LJP (Ram Vilas) National Secretary S Richard Humtsoe emphasized that political consensus without public accountability squanders a historic opportunity for the state.&amp;nbsp;Declaring that &quot;unconditional support is not a blank cheque,&quot; Humtsoe maintained that smaller political parties backing the NPF-BJP-led government must serve as active, meaningful partners in policy formulation and development rather than silent bystanders.The LJP leader stressed that political cooperation should never extinguish independent judgment, public scrutiny, or legitimate questions regarding administrative efficiency, regional equity, and public expenditure.&amp;nbsp;He pointed out that while political unity and stability provide favorable conditions for governance, they cannot guarantee progress by themselves unless backed by a coherent strategy.To address this, the party called for a comprehensive and structured common vision framework addressing critical state priorities. Key areas highlighted include facilitating a peaceful, honorable, and mutually acceptable resolution of the Naga political issue, ensuring rigorous financial transparency and reporting on public funds, building robust rural infrastructure, advancing value-added agriculture and rural entrepreneurship, and generating sustainable employment opportunities for the state&#039;s youth.&amp;nbsp;Urging the ruling dispensation to establish measurable annual targets, clear institutional responsibilities, and regular performance evaluations, the party concluded that political alliances must ultimately be judged by tangible improvements in the welfare and daily lives of the citizens of Nagaland, rather than mere political declarations.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/political-unity-must-translate-into-measurable-outcomes-says-ljp</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:20:01 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NPF to celebrate 64th Foundation Day on Oct 21 in Kohima]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/npf-to-celebrate-64th-foundation-day-on-oct-21-in-kohima</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Kohima, October 12 (MExN): The Naga People’s Front (NPF) Central Headquarters has issued a notification announcing that its 64th Foundation Day celebration will be held on October 21, 2026, starting at 11:00 AM at the Capital Cultural Hall in Kohima, Nagaland.&amp;nbsp;According to the notification issued by NPF Vice President Benjamin Lorin on October 12, all Central Office Bearers, frontal organisations, cells, Central Executive Council (CEC) members, core committee members, elders&#039; council members, party PSUs, and chairpersons and deputy chairpersons of all municipal and town councils have been requested to attend the celebration.&amp;nbsp;Additionally, the party has invited 25 delegates from each division, 50 delegates from the Manipur State Unit, and 10 delegates from the Arunachal Pradesh State Unit to participate and ensure the success of the event. The NPF stated that further details and necessary guidelines will be communicated soon. &amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Nagaland
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/npf-to-celebrate-64th-foundation-day-on-oct-21-in-kohima</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:19:36 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[SC issues notice to Centre, ECI on plea challenging blanket immunity to CEC, ECs]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sc-issues-notice-to-centre-eci-on-plea-challenging-blanket-immunity-to-cec-ecs</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to the Centre and the Election Commission of India (ECI) on a public interest litigation challenging the blanket immunity granted to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners under Section 16 of the Chief Election Commissioner and the other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.A bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana sought responses from the Union government and the poll panel on a plea filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) challenging the provision that grants serving and former CECs and Election Commissioners immunity from legal proceedings for acts, things or words committed, done or spoken in the course of discharging, or purporting to discharge, their official duties.As per the case status available on the apex court’s website, the matter is tentatively listed for further hearing on November 2.Section 16 states: &quot;Notwithstanding anything contained in any other law for the time being in force, no Court shall entertain or continue any civil or criminal proceedings against any person who is or was a Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner for any act, thing or word, committed, done or spoken by him when, or in the course of acting or purporting to act in the discharge of his official duty or function.&quot;ADR has contended that the provision violates Articles 14 and 19 of the Constitution, arguing that granting such sweeping protection to the constitutional functionaries undermines accountability and places them beyond the ordinary process of law.The plea has questioned the grant of blanket immunity to the CEC and Election Commissioners, contending that the provision could shield alleged arbitrary exercise of power and corruption from judicial scrutiny.The PIL comes amid wider judicial scrutiny of the statutory framework governing the appointment and functioning of the poll panel, including the manner in which its powers are exercised and the independence of its decision-making process.On October 5, the Supreme Court had issued notice to the Centre, the ECI and the three Election Commissioners on a separate plea questioning whether CEC Gyanesh Kumar could individually exercise or represent powers vested in the multi-member constitutional body.A Bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Bagchi and Mohana had sought responses after senior advocate Vikas Singh, appearing for the petitioner, alleged that the functioning of the poll panel was contrary to the statutory framework governing it.The petitioner had argued that Article 324 of the Constitution vests the superintendence, direction and control of elections in the ECI as an institution, rather than in the CEC acting individually.Meanwhile, the constitutional validity of the 2023 law excluding the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee for appointing the CEC and Election Commissioners has also come under judicial scrutiny.On September 23, a 2-judge Bench of the Supreme Court delivered a split verdict on whether petitions challenging the law should be referred to a Constitution Bench. While Justice Dipankar Datta rejected the plea for reference to a larger Bench, Justice Satish Chandra Sharma held that the challenge raised a substantial question of constitutional interpretation and favoured placing the matter before a Constitution Bench. The two judges directed that the papers be placed before CJI Surya Kant to consider the desirability of constituting a Constitution Bench to examine the validity of the 2023 Act.Under this law, the selection committee comprises the Prime Minister, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister, replacing the earlier interim arrangement prescribed by the Supreme Court in its March 2023 judgment in Anoop Baranwal v. Union of India, which included the CJI in the committee, apart from the Prime Minister and the Leader of Opposition]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sc-issues-notice-to-centre-eci-on-plea-challenging-blanket-immunity-to-cec-ecs</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:17:05 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Govt unveils standard treatment protocols for dermatological disorders]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/govt-unveils-standard-treatment-protocols-for-dermatological-disorders</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): The Ministry of Ayush on Tuesday released Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) on the management of dermatological disorders across Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy systems, with the inclusion of Yoga, in a move aimed at promoting greater uniformity, quality assurance and evidence-based clinical practice in Ayush healthcare.Prepared by the Ayush Vertical under the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the guidelines are designed to strengthen clinical care for skin-related conditions while supporting the integration of Ayush systems within the country&#039;s broader healthcare framework.Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav said the guidelines combine system-specific clinical approaches with contemporary scientific evidence to support safe, effective and holistic management of common dermatological conditions.He noted that the initiative would help improve patient care and enhance the contribution of Ayush systems to public health by encouraging standardized and evidence-informed treatment practices.Ayush Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha said the guidelines represent a significant step towards strengthening standardisation, quality and evidence-based practice across Ayush systems.Developed through expert consultations and assessment of contemporary scientific evidence, the document provides practical recommendations for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients while preserving the core principles of each traditional medical system, he added.Director General of Health Services Dr. Loveneesh G. Krishna said the guidelines would promote quality assurance and greater uniformity in healthcare delivery across Ayush systems.He emphasised that multidisciplinary collaboration would support practitioners in providing safe, effective and patient-centric care.The guidelines were unveiled on the occasion of the 11th Ayurveda Day and cover common skin disorders such as psoriasis, dermatitis, vitiligo, urticaria and dermatophytosis.For each Ayush discipline, the document outlines system-specific approaches to prevention, diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care and rehabilitation.According to the Ministry, the development of the guidelines involved an extensive interdisciplinary effort bringing together experts from Ayush research councils, senior academicians from Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy, Yoga specialists and experts from modern medicine.The process included reviews of classical texts, evaluation of scientific evidence, expert consultations and consensus-based discussions.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Health , India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/govt-unveils-standard-treatment-protocols-for-dermatological-disorders</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:16:32 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[SC urged to initiate suo motu contempt action over social media post targeting CJI, INDIA bloc protest]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sc-urged-to-initiate-suo-motu-contempt-action-over-social-media-post-targeting-cji-india-bloc-protest</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): A Supreme Court lawyer has approached Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant seeking consideration of suo motu criminal contempt proceedings over a now-deleted social media post by Congress Kerala targeting the CJI and the Opposition&#039;s protest march to the apex court.In his complaint-cum-representation, advocate Vineet Jindal urged the CJI to examine whether the post and the reported demonstration and slogan-shouting inside the apex court premises raised issues warranting action under the law, particularly in view of concerns over the security and orderly functioning of the Supreme Court.The Congress Kerala unit had posted on X: “Dear Surya Kant, If law and order is not your domain, resign now. We will find your replacement who can handle it.”Jindal submitted that the publication should be examined in its complete factual and legal context to determine whether it fell within the bounds of permissible political criticism or warranted consideration under Section 2(c) of the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.He referred to Article 129 of the Constitution, which empowers the Supreme Court to punish for contempt of itself, and sought consideration of suo motu proceedings, if warranted.The advocate further sought an examination of the reported demonstration during the filing of a petition by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other INDIA bloc leaders to ascertain whether any restricted area was entered without authorisation, security instructions were violated, or the functioning of the top court was obstructed.Jindal urged the preservation and examination of relevant CCTV footage, access-control logs, security deployment records and other evidence before any conclusion is drawn.Earlier, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) had separately condemned statements calling for the CJI&#039;s resignation, cautioning that such remarks risk undermining judicial dignity and interfering with the administration of justice.The INDIA bloc&#039;s march on Monday was held to protest alleged electoral irregularities and the SIR exercise.A delegation of Opposition leaders subsequently approached the Supreme Court with a joint petition challenging the electoral roll revision process.Meanwhile, lawyers have approached the Supreme Court in connection with Monday&#039;s incident at the apex court registry, when Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, arrived to file a petition challenging the SIR exercise.When senior advocate Gaurav Bhatia mentioned the matter before the top court on Tuesday, the CJI asked, “Is it in the mentioning list?” After Bhatia replied in the negative, the CJI said, “Just mention tomorrow.”Delhi Police have also registered four FIRs in connection with the INDIA bloc&#039;s protest march, police sources said. The cases were registered at the Tilak Marg, Mandir Marg and Barakhamba police stations for alleged violations of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).Two FIRs were registered at Tilak Marg police station and one each at Mandir Marg and Barakhamba police stations. Separately, several protesters, including Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) members Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das, were detained at Jantar Mantar during a flash protest.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sc-urged-to-initiate-suo-motu-contempt-action-over-social-media-post-targeting-cji-india-bloc-protest</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:14:44 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[SC summons Delhi Police over alleged assault on women journalists covering protests]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sc-summons-delhi-police-over-alleged-assault-on-women-journalists-covering-protests</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): The Supreme Court on Tuesday took serious note of allegations that women journalists covering protests in the national capital were assaulted by police personnel and directed a senior Delhi Police officer to remain present during the hearing on Thursday to explain the matter.A Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana made the observation after senior advocate Indira Jaising mentioned a petition filed by the Network of Women in Media, India (NWMI), seeking safeguards for journalists covering protests, particularly women journalists.&quot;We would like some senior officer to remain present here and explain,&quot; the CJI Kant-led Bench said, indicating that the police would have to explain the allegations.The development comes amid allegations that journalists covering protests against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar were manhandled, detained and obstructed while discharging their professional duties on October 10 and 11.Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan also mentioned a separate contempt petition alleging that the police had assaulted journalists in violation of the Supreme Court’s October 10 order.The apex court had directed the authorities to ensure that lawyers, journalists and other professionals were not hindered in discharging their professional duties.The directions were passed by a Bench of Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana while hearing contempt petitions alleging violations of its order concerning restrictions imposed ahead of the proposed protest.It had also directed the authorities to ensure the normal functioning of Metro and railway services, uninterrupted internet connectivity and free movement of people, subject to traffic regulations and public order requirements.The Supreme Court had also directed that there should be no detention except in accordance with the procedure established by law, particularly in the case of peaceful and unarmed gatherings outside areas where prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were in force.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sc-summons-delhi-police-over-alleged-assault-on-women-journalists-covering-protests</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:12:39 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[4 FIRs filed against social media handles over 'fake news' amid protests]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/4-firs-filed-against-social-media-handles-over-fake-news-amid-protests</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): Delhi Police&#039;s Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) unit has registered more than four FIRs against social media handles allegedly spreading false narratives and attempting to disturb the national atmosphere, official sources said on Tuesday.According to the sources, anti-India sentiments were being propagated through social media platforms from across the border, with several Pakistani social media accounts allegedly becoming active to circulate misleading information and create confusion among people.&quot;Anti-India sentiment is being spread from across the border through social media. The IDs of several Pakistani social media handlers were activated,&quot; the sources said.The sources further said that on October 10, during the Cockroach Janta Party&#039;s protest, several Pakistani social media handles had circulated false reports claiming that multiple people had died during protests.The posts were reportedly intended to spread misinformation and create panic amid the prevailing situation.Some users operating from Pakistan were also allegedly using Indian names to circulate fake videos and misleading news, giving their posts the appearance of originating from within the country, in an attempt to spread rumours and mislead the public.Additionally, sources said approximately 500 social media posts had been taken down so far for allegedly spreading rumours or attempting to create unrest among people.The action is part of the ongoing efforts to monitor online platforms and curb the circulation of misleading content that could potentially disturb public order.Earlier on Monday, the Congress-led INDIA bloc marched towards the Supreme Court to file a petition, seeking the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over the controversy surrounding the SIR of electoral rolls.Opposition leaders have alleged irregularities in the revision exercise and raised concerns over the electoral rolls, while the BJP has defended the process and accused the Congress of politicising the issue.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/4-firs-filed-against-social-media-handles-over-fake-news-amid-protests</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:11:04 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Will continue fighting until justice delivered, says Cong on protest against ECI]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/will-continue-fighting-until-justice-delivered-says-cong-on-protest-against-eci</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): Congress leaders on Tuesday asserted that their agitation against the Election Commission of India (ECI) would continue until justice was delivered and Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar resigned from his post.They also claimed that the large turnout during the INDIA bloc&#039;s protest march towards the Supreme Court reflected the public&#039;s growing awareness of the situation in the country and concerns over alleged electoral irregularities.Congress MP Pramod Tiwari, speaking to IANS, said the INDIA bloc remained united in its efforts to protect democracy and safeguard the voting rights of citizens.&quot;The INDIA bloc stands united to defend Mother India&#039;s democracy and protect voting rights. We will continue to fight this battle. The number of people who came yesterday to support us was historic,&quot; Tiwari said.Congress MP Imran Masood also referred to the large gathering in the national capital during the protest, saying that the scenes in Delhi were unlike anything he had witnessed throughout his decades-long political career.&quot;Just look at the situation in Delhi yesterday; I had never seen anything like it in my life. In my 30-35 years of political life, I had never witnessed such a scene in Delhi. There was a peculiar atmosphere yesterday; it seems people have realised the situation,&quot; Masood told IANS.Uttar Pradesh Congress President Aradhana Mishra Mona, meanwhile, alleged that more than 13.5 crore names had been deleted from electoral rolls under the pretext of the SIR exercise.She questioned the implications of such deletions for the democratic process and the constitutional rights of citizens, arguing that the right to vote was fundamental to the survival of democracy.&quot;More than 13.5 crore people&#039;s names have been deleted under the pretext of SIR. These are the people who are citizens of this country. Most of the petitions that were filed were also accepted. I want to ask: if people are deprived of or stripped of the right to vote, which is the greatest right in a democracy, will democracy survive? Will the Constitution survive? The people who were on the streets of Delhi yesterday were fighting to protect the democracy and Constitution of this country,&quot; Mishra said while speaking to IANS.Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput also said the party would continue its agitation, alleging that electoral irregularities and &quot;vote chori&quot; were undermining democratic institutions.&quot;To save the Constitution and democracy, and to prevent &#039;vote chori&#039; that is being done by Gyanesh Kumar, we will continue this fight. We have filed a petition in the Supreme Court and hope that we will get justice,&quot; Rajput told IANS.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/will-continue-fighting-until-justice-delivered-says-cong-on-protest-against-eci</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:09:53 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[India and Canada never had such good relationship as right now: Canadian envoy]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/india-and-canada-never-had-such-good-relationship-as-right-now-canadian-envoy</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): Terming the chemistry between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney as &quot;excellent&quot;, Canadian High Commissioner to India Christopher Cooter said on Tuesday that the two nations never had as &quot;good a relationship&quot; as it is right now. &amp;nbsp;In an exclusive interview with IANS ahead of Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand&#039;s arrival in New Delhi later in the day, Cooter spoke about the recent engagements between the leadership of both countries, including meetings between External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Anand. He also talked about the upcoming visit of Canada&#039;s Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu.&quot;I think it is fair to say that we never had as good a relationship as we have right now. Starting at the highest level, the chemistry between our two Prime Ministers is excellent. They have met four times in just over a year. Officials are also meeting regularly. We recently had our National Security Advisor here for discussions with his Indian counterpart, and our Foreign Minister is coming here. This will be her 10th meeting with India&#039;s External Affairs Minister over the past year,&quot; the Canadian High Commissioner told IANS.&quot;Our Trade Minister will also visit next week, leading a delegation of 300 Canadian business representatives. I believe this is the largest trade delegation we have ever taken anywhere, certainly to India. They will be here for a week, going to several cities in southern India. We have got dialogues on energy, migration and defence, and we expect a defence-related visit in the near future. We had at least six other ministers visiting India over the past year. Our Prime Minister of course came here in March. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to come to Canada in early December. At that point, we are hoping to sign our first Free Trade Agreement during that visit. Which if we can do it, it will happen at light speed, because we only really began to negotiate this in March of this year,&quot; he added.Cooter noted that ties between India and Canada are moving forward in the private sector as well with both nations &quot;discovering each other&quot; and aiming to double the trade by 2030.&quot;On many, many fields, we are moving ahead both on the public side, which is between the leaders and officials, and also on the private sector side. More and more companies, as I said, are coming on this mission next week. But, other than that, we&#039;ve got energy companies talking to each other. We&#039;ve got IT companies investing in both countries. Right now, we employ in India, mainly through our IT companies, but also auto and other sectors, about 100,000 Indians in good well-paying jobs. But in Canada, about 50,000 Canadians are actually employed by Indian companies. So while trade per se is not where it should be, and we&#039;ve got a goal of doubling it by 2030, if you look at the investments that are pouring in, it&#039;s going very, well. What we&#039;re doing right now is we&#039;re kind of discovering each other. I mean, we&#039;ve had a long relationship.&quot;He noted that India and Canada will mark 80 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 2027 and stressed that the two countries are building a momentum that both sides have talked about for decades but never managed to achieve, one which is more commensurate with the size of economies, the scale of growth and momentum in both countries.&quot;You&#039;re building to Viksit Bharat, developed country status by 2047. I would argue that we&#039;re doing something similar in Canada over the last year or so. We have just had an investment conference where the corporate side pledged some $500 billion in investment in Canada. We are going to spend $500 billion more on investment in defence by 2035. So we&#039;re ramping up and in a way developing to be a different kind of Canada, a new Canada that wasn&#039;t even visible six months ago.&quot;&quot;With all of that gravity from the enormous size and growth of the Indian economy and the changes in Canada that are coming about, mostly to diversify our trade. So, we have more options than just the United States. When you put all these pieces together, it fits incredibly well together. It&#039;s like gears fitting together, one supports the other and moves. The faster one goes, the faster the other one goes. That&#039;s where we&#039;re at. We&#039;re still a long way from where we need to be, but a lot of the government framework is being put in place. The business sector is getting to know each other, and I think we are going to see much, more even next year,&quot; he added.Cooter said that Canadian Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu, during his visit to India, will hold talks to advance the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations which are in the fifth round.&quot;For the Trade Minister, two things, one is to advance our CEPA negotiations. We&#039;re in the fifth round right now at the officials level. He will be speaking with Minister Goyal to take it further, to go faster. At the same time, he&#039;s heading this mission of 300 Canadian business people going to Mumbai and then going to Bangalore, and some of them will, of course, go to other cities. That&#039;s the largest trade mission I think we&#039;ve ever done anywhere, certainly to India.&quot;Our Foreign Minister will also visit India. Both ministers are expected to participate in discussions at the Bloomberg conference. They will be talking about greater cooperation in the geopolitical sphere. The two Foreign Ministers will meet again to discuss a wide range of issues. For example, the New Partnership for Multilateralism was formed at the United Nations General Assembly a few weeks ago, and both countries are members. I expect them to talk about that and cooperation in defence field, which we also just begun. So there are a range of things that both ministers will be able to take further as we head towards the Prime Minister&#039;s visit to Canada in December,&quot; he added.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        India , World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/india-and-canada-never-had-such-good-relationship-as-right-now-canadian-envoy</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:06:45 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Four killed, over 30 injured after train derails in Pakistan's Punjab]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/four-killed-over-30-injured-after-train-derails-in-pakistans-punjab</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Islamabad, October 13 (IANS): At least four people were killed and more than 30 others injured after the Rehman Baba Express derailed near Sher Shah Railway Station in Multan district of Pakistan&#039;s Punjab province on Tuesday, local media reported.The train was heading to Peshawar when the incident occurred. Pakistan&#039;s Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi confirmed the death of four passengers after the train derailed in Multan.Abbasi also appointed the federal government inspector of railways (FGIR) as the inquiry officer to carry out a probe into the incident, leading Pakistani daily Dawn reported.Locopilot Rizwan Abbas has said that the train was travelling at 100 kilometres per hour, and he suddenly felt a push when the train was passing through the Sher Shah station area.Abbas said that he applied the brakes and stopped the train.&quot;When I got out of the locomotive and looked back, I saw that the passenger coaches had derailed and were lying off the tracks. It was horrible,&quot; Dawn quoted Abbas as saying.Pakistan has reported several train derailment incidents over the past year, sparking concerns over possible negligence and deep-rooted issues of Pakistan Railways (PR) over maintenance of trains and tracks across the country.On October 1, two passenger trains - Shalimar Express and Pakistan Express- narrowly escaped major accidents after derailing.In August, one person was killed and at least 24 passengers were injured after four carriages of the Awam Express, en route from Peshawar to Karachi, derailed near Lodhran railway station in Pakistan.Lodhran Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lubna Nazir stated that the injured people included 16 men, four women and three children, Pakistan-based Geo News reported.In July, three coaches of the Jaffar Express derailed after a blast occurred on the railway track near Shikarpur in Sindh, leaving one passenger injured and disrupting train operations in the area.Multiple coaches derailed off the track due to the blast, disrupting railway operations on the impacted route.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/four-killed-over-30-injured-after-train-derails-in-pakistans-punjab</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:05:16 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[IBM, MeitY Startup Hub sign MoU to boost India's deep-tech startup ecosystem]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/ibm-meity-startup-hub-sign-mou-to-boost-indias-deep-tech-startup-ecosystem</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 13 (IANS): IBM and MeitY Startup Hub (MSH), an initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating the growth of India&#039;s deep-tech startup ecosystem through technology access, mentorship, skilling support and enterprise engagement opportunities, it was announced on Tuesday.The partnership seeks to combine MeitY Startup Hub&#039;s nationwide innovation network with IBM&#039;s expertise in artificial intelligence, hybrid cloud and quantum computing to help high-potential startups develop, validate and scale technology solutions for both domestic and global markets.Under the collaboration, startups will gain access to IBM&#039;s enterprise technology portfolio and innovation platforms to address business and industry challenges. The support will include technical guidance on IBM watsonx, the company&#039;s enterprise AI and data platform, IBM Bob, an AI coding agent for enterprises, and IBM Sovereign Core, an AI-ready software stack designed to support digital sovereignty.Startups will also receive exposure to IBM&#039;s hybrid cloud and quantum computing technologies, as well as its security and automation solutions.Dr. Panneerselvam Madanagopal, Chief Executive Officer of MeitY Startup Hub, said India&#039;s startup ecosystem is increasingly emerging as a global centre for technology innovation.&quot;India&#039;s startup ecosystem is emerging as a global engine for technology innovation. Through this collaboration with IBM, we aim to strengthen indigenous deep tech capabilities, foster technology-led entrepreneurship and create greater opportunity for innovators to build solutions that contribute to a Viksit Bharat,&quot; Madanagopal noted.Sandip Patel, Managing Director of IBM India and South Asia, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to fostering innovation and strengthening India&#039;s deep-tech startup landscape.“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to fostering innovation and strengthening our country’s deep-tech startup ecosystem. These startups are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology-led growth for India and the world,” said Patel.“Together with MeitY Startup Hub, we aim to help founders innovate faster, scale responsibly, and build solutions that address both national and global challenges – turning promising innovation into real-world impact,” Patel added.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Science &amp; Technology
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/ibm-meity-startup-hub-sign-mou-to-boost-indias-deep-tech-startup-ecosystem</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:01:54 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[NPCI defers UPI MDR rollout until after Diwali, fintech stocks rebound]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/npci-defers-upi-mdr-rollout-until-after-diwali-fintech-stocks-rebound</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) on Tuesday deferred the implementation of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select Unified Payments Interface (UPI) merchant transactions until after Diwali, providing temporary relief to merchants and consumers during the festive season.In a statement, NPCI said that its UPI and Services Steering Committee had decided to postpone the rollout, keeping the festive season in mind.The MDR framework was originally scheduled to come into effect from October 15.“UPI and Services Steering Committee today decided that, keeping in mind the festive season, Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select Person-to-Merchant (P2M) UPI transactions shall be implemented immediately post Diwali at a date to be notified separately,” NPCI said.The payments body added that the revised implementation date will be communicated separately.The move also triggered a sharp recovery in fintech stocks which rebounded from their intra-day lows following the announcement.Under the proposed MDR framework, select merchant categories including railways, telecom services, insurance and fuel purchases would attract a flat MDR of Rs 5 on UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000.For payments made to large merchants above the same threshold, a charge of 0.4 per cent would be levied, subject to a maximum cap of Rs 300 per transaction.NPCI has maintained that the revised MDR structure will have a limited impact on the broader UPI ecosystem.According to estimates shared earlier, only around 4 per cent of merchant transactions are expected to fall under the ambit of the new framework, while over 95 per cent of person-to-merchant (P2M) UPI transactions will continue to remain exempt from MDR charges.The framework also preserves the zero-MDR regime for small merchants operating under the person-to-person merchant (P2PM) model, ensuring that smaller businesses are not burdened with additional transaction costs.The decision to defer the rollout comes amid heightened industry discussions around the reintroduction of MDR on certain categories of UPI transactions and its likely impact on merchant payments, fintech companies and the digital payments ecosystem.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/npci-defers-upi-mdr-rollout-until-after-diwali-fintech-stocks-rebound</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:01:02 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Rupee jumps 77 paise, logs sharp gains for second day after RBI measures]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/rupee-jumps-77-paise-logs-sharp-gains-for-second-day-after-rbi-measures</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS): The Indian rupee appreciated by 77 paise against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday supported by RBI measures aimed at reducing immediate dollar demand and curbing excessive positions in the foreign exchange market.The domestic currency opened at 95.17 -- up 0.64 paise -- then gained ground to touch 95.05 -- up 77 paise -- over its previous close.The measures including a dedicated dollar window for oil marketing companies through designated banks and higher costs for certain foreign exchange hedging transactions are expected to reduce dollar demand in spot market and curb speculative positions against rupee.On Monday, the rupee appreciated 93 paise, logging its steepest single-day gain in more than six months, to close at 95.78 against the US dollar.On outlook for the rupee, experts expect the Indian currency to trade in 95.60-97.50 per dollar range by end-2026 with most projections clustering around 96-97 per dollar mark.Earlier in October, the Reserve Bank of India tightened rules governing forex derivatives trades to curtail speculative bets against rupee and asked banks to create 20 per cent reserve for dollar purchases of over $2 million.In another set of measures announced Saturday on derivatives front, RBI said authorised dealers should not permit users to rebook any foreign exchange derivative contract involving INR, whether deliverable or non-deliverable, which has been cancelled.Meanwhile, dollar index -- which gauges greenback&#039;s strength against basket of six currencies -- was trading lower by 0.15 per cent at 102.43.Meanwhile, Brent crude -- global oil benchmark -- was trading lower by over 1 per cent at $105.47 per barrel.According to experts. The US dollar index hovered around 102.5 Tuesday, remaining near its strongest level since April 2025 as investors awaited key inflation reports for clues about Federal Reserve&#039;s monetary policy outlook.&amp;nbsp;]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/rupee-jumps-77-paise-logs-sharp-gains-for-second-day-after-rbi-measures</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 17:00:19 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[India will lead in how AI is diffused, delivered: Nandan Nilekani]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/india-will-lead-in-how-ai-is-diffused-delivered-nandan-nilekani</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) Nandan Nilekani -- Infosys co-founder and chairman of High-Powered Task Force on Examination Reforms for NTA -- on Tuesday said India will be a leader in how AI is diffused and delivered to people on a large scale.Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum here, Nilekani said everyone is saying AI is GPT, but no one can control GPTs.He further noted that AI will not be a winner take all, but there will be a huge number of players, he said.You cannot bottle this technology, a lot more chips will come and this is not a winner take all technology, Nilekani said.Our experience on build out large-scale technologies will help in AI as well, he added.Requirement for companies like Infosys is increasing and more work is going to come our way, Nilekani said, adding that predicting doom for such companies is just disaster marketing.Earlier in the event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India has chosen the path of empowering humanity.&quot;We supplied vaccines to more than 100 countries. Our manufacturing capabilities also became a means of support for other countries,&quot; he added.The Prime Minister further noted let me give you another interesting example. A few months ago, India hosted the AI Impact Summit, which Bloomberg has also praised highly. At the summit, along with discussing the use of AI for humanity, we also discussed how animals could benefit from AI.According to him, opportunities for innovation are reaching more people. New talent is emerging, and new solutions are being developed.“After 2014, when a new government was formed in India and we got the opportunity to serve, India focused on making mobile data affordable. As a result, today, a student in a small town can access digital learning. A small shopkeeper in a village can reach new customers. A young person can enrol in new online courses,” PM Modi said.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Science &amp; Technology
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/india-will-lead-in-how-ai-is-diffused-delivered-nandan-nilekani</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:47:58 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Sonali Bendre recalls welcoming Michael Jackson in a ‘Nauvari Saree’ during his first India visit]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/sonali-bendre-recalls-welcoming-michael-jackson-in-a-nauvari-saree-during-his-first-india-visit</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 13 (IANS) Actress Sonali Bendre recalled welcoming pop icon Michael Jackson during his first visit to India as she appeared on the grand premiere episode of Sony Marathi’s Kon Honar Crorepati.In a conversation with the show&#039;s host, Madhuri Dixit, Sonali revealed that she was initially more excited about wearing a traditional Maharashtrian nauvari saree than meeting the global music sensation.Madhuri, who described herself as a fan of the legendary performer, asked Sonali about greeting Jackson in a nauvari saree when he arrived in Mumbai.Responding to the question, Sonali said, “You know, actually, I wasn’t that much of a fan of his. They told me that they wanted Marathi girls to do this. And at that time, I got free tickets for my friends and family.”She further explained that wearing the traditional attire was a special experience for her, as she had always admired the garment. “And of course, wearing a nauvari was a lot of fun because my grandmother used to wear one, and I always had a fascination with wearing a nauvari. I mean, it’s just the most graceful saree ever. So I was excited about that,” she said.However, Sonali added that watching Jackson perform live changed her perception of the artist and turned her into a fan.Recalling the concert, she said, “But after that, when I went to the concert, I really understood what an artist he is. I mean, amazing! The stamina, the singing… and after that, I became his fan.”For the uninitiated, Michael Jackson visited India in October 1996 as part of his ‘HIStory World Tour’, performing in Mumbai.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/sonali-bendre-recalls-welcoming-michael-jackson-in-a-nauvari-saree-during-his-first-india-visit</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:43:06 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[PM Modi pitches 'power to empower' idea, says real value lies in its purpose]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/pm-modi-pitches-power-to-empower-idea-says-real-value-lies-in-its-purpose</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) Pitching idea of ‘power to empower’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said technology, data, knowledge and innovation are power and real value of lies in its purpose.Addressing the Bloomberg New Economy Forum here, PM Modi said theme of this year&#039;s forum is on emerging powers and in third decade of 21st century big change is happening, where technology, data, knowledge and innovation is power.The question is not who holds power but how it is used, whether technology will advance only few people or create opportunities for crores of people, he said.This is where new idea is born and that idea is &quot;power to empower&quot;, PM Modi said.&quot;Beyond power to control lies power to enable, beyond power to compete lies power to collaborate, beyond power to succeed lies power to help others succeed,&quot; he said, adding that it is very important to understand value of power in the current era.PM Modi said India is &#039;mother of democracy&#039; with more than 100 languages, about 80,000 registered newspapers and publications, more than 1,000 satellite TV channels and over 500 million YouTube users and over 500 million Instagram users in era.In India, there is open debate on different issues, public discusses different viewpoints and digital power has played big role in present times, he said.He said 12-13 years ago mobile internet reach was also a power, whoever had access had information, knowledge and opportunity.After 2014, when new government got opportunity to serve, India focused on making mobile data affordable, he said.As result, even small shopkeeper in village can reach customer, PM Modi said, adding that in India connectivity has not only connected people but also connected and offered opportunities and this is power to empower.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/pm-modi-pitches-power-to-empower-idea-says-real-value-lies-in-its-purpose</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:41:22 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Hema Malini celebrates Navratri with her iconic ‘Durga’ ballet performance in Telangana]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/hema-malini-celebrates-navratri-with-her-iconic-durga-ballet-performance-in-telangana</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Mumbai, October 13 (IANS) Actress and politician Hema Malini marked the beginning of Navratri with a performance of her popular ballet ‘Durga’ at a special celebration organized in Telangana.Taking to Instagram, the ‘Sholay’ actor shared her experience of performing at the ‘Agra Dandiya Navratri Celebration,&#039; held at the Classic Convention Centre on October 11. The event also coincided with Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti. Sharing her happiness over the performance, Hema wrote, “It was a joy and pleasure to perform my most popular ballet Durga at the first day of Navratri at the Classic Convention Centre for the Agarwal Samaj, Telangana’s ‘Agra Dandiya Navratri Celebration, it also marked the Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti on 11.10.2026. On this auspicious occasion, wishing you all a very Happy Navratri and Durga Puja #navratri #dance #danceballet #durga #agarwalsamaj.”She also extended festive greetings to her followers on the auspicious occasion of Navratri.Hema Malini also shared a video of her performance, offering a glimpse of her portrayal of Parvati Mata in the dance ballet. Dressed as the Hindu goddess, the veteran actress is seen bringing the mythological character to life through her graceful movements and expressive classical dance. Her traditional attire and devotional presentation reflect the spiritual essence of the performance, which celebrates the divine feminine.The dance ballet pays tribute to Goddess Durga and the power of the divine feminine, conveying the message of good prevailing over evil through classical dance and stories rooted in Hindu mythology.Apart from her successful journey in cinema, Hema has carved a niche for herself in Indian classical dance. She uses her stage productions to bring mythological tales and India&#039;s rich cultural heritage to life.Hema Malini had once described dance as a deeply spiritual experience that allowed her to express devotion and stay connected to tradition, adding that performing Parampara alongside her daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol, was a special experience that helped them carry their artistic heritage forward.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Entertainment
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/hema-malini-celebrates-navratri-with-her-iconic-durga-ballet-performance-in-telangana</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:39:23 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Brisbane 2032 CEO Cindy Hook to step down at the end of her contract]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/brisbane-2032-ceo-cindy-hook-to-step-down-at-the-end-of-her-contract</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games organising committee CEO Cindy Hook has announced she will depart from her role at the conclusion of her four-year contract.Hook was appointed in February 2023, with her four-year contract set to expire early next year.The organising committee said a new appointment is expected to be announced in the coming months.It said Hook has made the decision, accepted by the Organising Committee Board, that the time was right to pass the baton to a new leader to ensure a smooth transition just over a year ahead of the LA28 Games and as Brisbane 2032 moves from its initial planning and capability building phase into the next critical phase of operations, project and event delivery.“During the past four years, I have achieved everything we had hoped for and had many amazing experiences along the way,” Hook said in a statement as quoted by News9.As CEO of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Organising Committee Cindy was responsible for leading all aspects of organising the Games to create an outstanding experience for the athletes and spectators and leave a positive legacy for Brisbane, Southeast Queensland, and Australia. &amp;nbsp;Her responsibilities include Games planning; raising revenue through sponsorship, philanthropy, ticketing and merchandise; managing the operation of the venues; event security; volunteer recruitment and much more.Brisbane 2032 President Andrew Liveris AO said Hook had been an &quot;exceptional leader” who had taken the Games from a &quot;fledgling startup&quot; to a “thriving organisation ready to go to the next level”.“Her focus on values, organisational excellence and strict financial and governance processes are embedded throughout a high calibre team that she recruited and I thank her for her great contributions,” Liveris said.Brisbane 2032 President Andrew Liveris called Cindy an exceptional leader. &quot;Cindy commenced when the Organising Committee was a fledgling startup and has transformed Brisbane 2032 into a thriving organisation ready to go to the next level of Games execution,&quot; he said.&quot;Her focus on values, organisational excellence and strict financial and governance processes are embedded throughout a high-calibre team that she recruited, and I thank her for her great contributions,&quot; he added.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Sports
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/brisbane-2032-ceo-cindy-hook-to-step-down-at-the-end-of-her-contract</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:38:08 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA['Progress for girls in India has significance far beyond its borders': UNICEF official]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/progress-for-girls-in-india-has-significance-far-beyond-its-borders-unicef-official</link>
                <description><![CDATA[United Nations, October 13 (IANS) UNICEF&#039;s Deputy Executive Director Hannan Suleman has praised the progress made in the status of India&#039;s girls and said it will have global impact.“Over the past decade, girls&#039; education has improved significantly, reflecting growing recognition of girls&#039; value within families” in India, she said on Monday.“India is home to the world&#039;s largest adolescent population, with 253 million adolescents” and “that means progress for girls in India has significance far beyond its borders”, she said.“India has shown that sustained investment, large-scale community engagement, and policy action can drive real, meaningful change”, she said at an event organised by India and Sierra Leone to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child.India&#039;s Permanent Representative P Harish said India&#039;s efforts to advance girls through many programmes have shown their impact over a lifetime, and he spoke of the mark women made at his alma mater, Osmania University College of Engineering in Hyderabad.“When I was a young engineering graduate student in college, I did mechanical engineering, and there were no girls in my class”, he said.“It was an all-male mechanical engineering class because it was considered a discipline which was male, but today almost 70 per cent of the class in my university are girls”, he said.“So, it is making real progress in our own lifetimes”, he said.However, he said that artificial intelligence (AI) is still male-dominated: “We only hear of tech bros. We don&#039;t hear of tech sisters”.Because of its power, he said, “All of us as member states can focus on [it], so that the emerging AI domain becomes girl-friendly and women-friendly”.“In India, we are ensuring that digital tools, including DPIs -- digital public infrastructure -- become a force multiplier for girls&#039; education”, he said.“AI is increasingly being utilised to create specific tutorials and child-focused tutoring materials, which can help children use it to better their educational outcomes”, he added.Sierra Leone&#039;s Deputy Foreign Minister Jeneba Bangura said that investments in girls are a force multiplier for society, nation and beyond.“When we invest in a girl, we strengthen families, communities, nations, and build a more peaceful, fair, and prosperous world”, he said.“Across Africa and the world, girls are not only vulnerable, but they are agents of change, innovators, leaders, peacekeepers, and deliverers of growth”, she said.Calling for international efforts to enhance the status of all girls, she said, “Sierra Leone is proud to join India and other partners as we seek a world where a girl&#039;s birthplace does not determine her future”.Liberia&#039;s Permanent Representative Lewis Brown recalled the success of women in ending his country&#039;s civil wars between 1989 and 2003.“During our country&#039;s darkest years, Liberian women mobilised communities, advanced peace, and helped restore hope”, he said. “For Liberia, the truth simply is, women help secure our peace.“We must now help secure the future of Liberia&#039;s girls”, he said.The organisation, Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace, forced the leaders to hold peace talks that ended the second civil war in 2003.Algeria&#039;s Permanent Ambassador Amar Bendjama said, “The conditions we create for girls today, our girls, shape their choices and also their contribution for tomorrow”.“Investing in girls&#039; rights, in their well-being, in their opportunities, is therefore an investment in our shared future”, he said.He also emphasised digital education for girls.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/progress-for-girls-in-india-has-significance-far-beyond-its-borders-unicef-official</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 09:00:32 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[US, UK discuss Iran, Hormuz security]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/us-uk-discuss-iran-hormuz-security</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Washington, October 13 (IANS) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband discussed security in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran&#039;s actions and efforts to stabilise global energy markets during a telephone conversation, as Washington and London reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation on major international security challenges.The two leaders also discussed efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict through negotiations, according to an official readout issued by the US State Department.The conversation highlighted the importance both governments attach to protecting maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with international shipping routes.Secretary of State Rubio and Foreign Secretary Miliband “reiterated their shared commitment to safeguarding transit in the Strait of Hormuz and the importance of holding Iran to account for its actions,” State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said.The discussion came amid continuing concerns over regional security and the potential impact of instability in the Gulf on international shipping and energy supplies.The Strait of Hormuz remains particularly important for major Asian energy consumers, including India, which depend on international maritime routes for substantial portions of their crude oil and liquefied natural gas imports.Any prolonged disruption to shipping through the waterway could affect global energy prices, transportation costs and supply chains.However, the State Department did not announce any new restrictions, naval deployments or operational arrangements following Monday&#039;s conversation.Rubio and Miliband also discussed continued cooperation to protect American assets in Britain.According to the State Department, the two officials emphasised “continued collaboration to secure U.S. assets in the United Kingdom.”The readout did not identify the facilities involved or provide details of any specific threat.The reference to American assets in Britain came as Washington and its European partners continued to coordinate on defence and regional security issues.The two officials also addressed the broader economic implications of international conflicts, including the need for stability in energy markets.“Secretary Rubio reaffirmed the value of our close partnership to stabilize global energy markets while also bringing the Russia-Ukraine conflict to an end through a negotiated settlement,” Pigott said.The statement linked transatlantic energy cooperation with diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the war in Ukraine.The conversation took place on the same day President Donald Trump renewed his call for Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to reach an agreement.Speaking to reporters before departing the White House for Ohio, Trump said both leaders needed to end the fighting and reiterated his belief that a negotiated settlement was possible.The State Department readout did not indicate whether Rubio and Miliband discussed Trump&#039;s latest comments or any specific ceasefire arrangement.]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/us-uk-discuss-iran-hormuz-security</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 08:59:30 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Trump says he may meet Kim Jong-un on Asia trip]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/trump-says-he-may-meet-kim-jong-un-on-asia-trip</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Washington, October 13 (IANS) US President Donald Trump kept open the possibility of meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during his Asia trip next month, when he is due to attend the ASEAN summit in Manila and the APEC summit in Shenzhen, China.&quot;I may, yeah,&quot; Trump told reporters at the White House before boarding Marine One, when asked whether he planned to meet Kim during the trip.He did not say where or when such a meeting could take place.Trump is scheduled to take part in the ASEAN summit in the Philippine capital on November 16 before going to Shenzhen for APEC, which runs from November 17 to 19, according to the New York Post, which cited the White House.In China, Trump is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping for the third time this year.The President has spoken often about wanting to see Kim again. In August, he told reporters he expected to meet the North Korean leader later this year. &quot;Yeah, I will be,&quot; he said then, when asked if he planned to meet Kim in 2026.The Wall Street Journal reported in August, citing US officials, that Trump had pressed aides to arrange a meeting as early as this autumn, with the APEC summit in Shenzhen floated as a possible venue.Neither Washington nor Pyongyang has announced a meeting. [VERIFY: any North Korean (KCNA) or White House statement since August]Trump met Kim three times in his first term. In June 2018 in Singapore, he became the first sitting US President to meet a North Korean leader, and the two agreed to work towards the complete denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula.Their second summit, in Hanoi in February 2019, ended without an agreement.In June 2019, Trump briefly stepped into North Korea at the Demilitarized Zone in Panmunjom, the first sitting US President to set foot in the country.Talks stalled after that, and North Korea has continued to expand its nuclear and missile programmes.Trump made the remarks on Monday before leaving for a campaign rally in Youngstown, Ohio.]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/trump-says-he-may-meet-kim-jong-un-on-asia-trip</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 08:58:35 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Govt targets to train over 6 lakh rural youth via RSETIs]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/govt-targets-to-train-over-6-lakh-rural-youth-via-rsetis</link>
                <description><![CDATA[New Delhi, October 13 (IANS) A training target of 6.35 lakh rural youth has been given to the Rural Self Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs) in the country for the current financial year, which is more than the training target fixed for 2025-26, according to the government.In a significant step towards strengthening rural entrepreneurship and promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities, the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Academy of RUDSETI (NAR).The aim is to establish uniform training standards, ensure quality administration and facilitate systematic capacity building across RSETIs in the country.According to an official statement, a key focus of the partnership will be to improve candidate registration through Kaushal Panjee and Aadhaar-based face authentication through the Aadhaar Enabled Biometric Attendance System (AEBAS), while enhancing the quality and relevance of training delivered through RSETIs.This will include the implementation of National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF)-aligned new-age courses, the adoption of industry-benchmarked training aids and equipment, and the delivery of core Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) courses as notified by MoRD.The partnership will also strengthen Training of Trainers (ToT), assessment and certification of trainees and trainers through the Unified Portal (kaushal.rural.gov.in), and compliance with the Common Norms notified by the Ministry.The MoU marks an important step towards strengthening the RSETI ecosystem through improved training quality, institutional capacity, digital governance and outcome-oriented monitoring.By reinforcing the link between skill development, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods, the partnership seeks to enhance the capacity of rural youth to establish viable enterprises and contribute to inclusive rural economic growth, said the statement.The MoU exchange took place in the presence of Rohit Kansal, Secretary, Department of Rural Development. It marks an important step towards reinforcing the RSETI ecosystem and strengthening its role in rural skill development, entrepreneurship promotion and livelihood generation.]]></description>
                <category>
                        India
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/govt-targets-to-train-over-6-lakh-rural-youth-via-rsetis</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 08:57:29 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[Trump hails Ramaswamy as 'very good friend', calls rival 'total lunatic']]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/trump-hails-ramaswamy-as-very-good-friend-calls-rival-total-lunatic</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Washington, October 13 (IANS) US President Donald Trump made a personal pitch for Indian-American Republican Vivek Ramaswamy at a rally in Youngstown, Ohio, calling his former primary rival a &quot;very good friend&quot; and branding his Democratic opponent Amy Acton a &quot;total lunatic&quot;.Addressing supporters at the Covelli Centre, Trump recalled the 2024 Republican presidential primary, in which Ramaswamy ran against him before dropping out and endorsing him.&quot;And we&#039;re going to send my very good friend -- you know, I ran against him, and he was not easy. He&#039;s a very smart guy and he&#039;s a very good guy. And he loves -- he loves this state,&quot; Trump said.&quot;He&#039;s got a lot of great plans, like cutting taxes all over the place. You&#039;ll be very happy. You&#039;re going to be amazed at how good he is, how smart he is,&quot; he added.Trump turned sharply on Acton, a physician and former state health director.&quot;Vivek is running against a total lunatic named Amy Acton, who shut down Ohio schools during Covid locked up your factories and your businesses,&quot; he said, adding that &quot;she wants to take away your guns&quot;.He urged voters to back Ramaswamy and Senator Jon Husted. &quot;If you want to stop it before it begins, vote for Jon Husted and vote for Vivek Ramaswamy,&quot; Trump said, after warning against Ohio being &quot;plundered, ransacked and destroyed like Minnesota&#039;s being destroyed&quot;.&quot;But this is, I think, about the only one I&#039;ve made two. That means I like Ohio. We have to get Vivek -- And we have to get Jon,&quot; he said.Speaking before Trump took the stage, Ramaswamy said: &quot;And I say this as the proud son of legal immigrants to this country your first act of entering this country cannot break the law that is why we are ending sanctuary cities in the state of Ohio.”&quot;As Americans, we believe in merit, that the best person gets the job regardless of their skin color,&quot; he said, promising to be &quot;the most conservative governor of this state has ever seen in our history&quot;.Joining Trump on stage later, Ramaswamy accused Acton of avoiding him, saying &quot;the woman I&#039;m running against actually refuses to show up for a debate with me&quot;.&quot;I will be a governor who proudly works with the President of the United States of America to bring more dollars into Ohio, to bring higher paying jobs to Ohio,&quot; he said.Ramaswamy trails Acton by about four points in the MS NOW-FiftyPlusOne polling average. The election is on November 3.Ramaswamy, the Cincinnati-born son of immigrants from Kerala, would become the third Indian-American governor in US history, after Bobby Jindal of Louisiana and Nikki Haley of South Carolina, and the first from the Midwest.Republican incumbent Mike DeWine is term-limited.]]></description>
                <category>
                        World
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/trump-hails-ramaswamy-as-very-good-friend-calls-rival-total-lunatic</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 08:56:06 +0530</pubDate>
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                <title><![CDATA[IMF raises India's growth forecast to 7 pc, keeps it among fastest-growing major economies]]></title>
                <link>https://morungexpress.com/imf-raises-indias-growth-forecast-to-7-pc-keeps-it-among-fastest-growing-major-economies</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Washington, October 13 (IANS) The International Monetary Fund on Tuesday raised its forecast for India&#039;s economic growth to 7.0 per cent for 2026, saying the country &quot;remains among the fastest-growing major economies&quot; even as a war in the Middle East and higher oil prices drag on much of the world.In its October 2026 World Economic Outlook, the IMF projected India&#039;s growth at 7.0 per cent in 2026 and 7.0 per cent in 2027, on a fiscal year basis.The 2026 projection is 0.6 percentage points higher than in the July 2026 WEO Update and 0.5 percentage points higher than in the April 2026 WEO. The 2027 projection was raised by 0.3 percentage point from July and by 0.5 percentage point from April.India&#039;s economy grew 7.8 per cent in 2025, according to the report, which presents fiscal year 2025-26 in the 2025 column.On a calendar year basis, the Fund put India&#039;s growth projections at 7.4 per cent for 2026 and 7.0 per cent for 2027.The IMF said the higher forecast &quot;reflects stronger-than-expected momentum, supported by resilient domestic demand and robust services activity&quot;.&quot;India&#039;s growth remained robust, underpinned by domestic demand and services, despite higher oil prices,&quot; the WEO said.Looking further out, the report said the medium-term outlook had become uneven, with downgrades concentrated among economies hit directly by the Middle East conflict and among &quot;energy-importing emerging market and developing economies elsewhere, excluding India&quot;.&quot;India stands out with upward revisions, reflecting sustained momentum and growing evidence of stronger growth potential supported by favourable demographic dynamics, a large and expanding domestic market, and continued structural reforms,&quot; it said.The Fund projected consumer prices in India to rise 5.0 per cent in 2026, up from 2.0 per cent in 2025, before easing to 4.4 per cent in 2027.It projected India&#039;s current account deficit at 1.5 per cent of GDP in 2026 and 1.3 per cent in 2027, compared with 0.7 per cent in 2025.The report also singled out India on public finances. It said primary deficits in the largest advanced and emerging market economies during 2020-25 remained &quot;substantially larger than before the pandemic,&quot; adding that &quot;in most of these economies, with India an exception,&quot; stabilising debt-to-GDP ratios at 2025 levels would require greater fiscal consolidation than now planned.On trade, the WEO said new agreements &quot;such as the EU&#039;s recent trade agreements with India and MERCOSUR... or the United Kingdom&#039;s agreement with India&quot; could lower tariff and non-tariff barriers, help economies adjust to recent trade policy changes and strengthen supply-chain resilience.China&#039;s growth is projected to slow to 4.5 per cent in 2026 and 4.0 per cent in 2027, from 5.0 per cent in 2025. The IMF said &quot;higher global oil prices, together with protracted uncertainty and structural headwinds&quot; were expected to weigh on Chinese activity.The United States is projected to grow 2.3 per cent in both 2026 and 2027.Global growth is projected at 3.1 per cent in 2026 and 3.4 per cent in 2027. Emerging and developing Asia is forecast to grow 5.1 per cent in 2026.The Middle East and Central Asia region is projected to contract 0.3 per cent in 2026, with Saudi Arabia&#039;s economy shrinking 3.3 per cent, before rebounding 7.9 per cent in 2027.The Fund&#039;s baseline assumes an average oil price of $95.74 a barrel in 2026 and $87.39 in 2027, against $67.74 in 2025.Global headline inflation is projected to rise to 4.7 per cent in 2026 before easing to 4.1 per cent in 2027.&quot;Global activity is projected to grow at 3.1 per cent in 2026 and 3.4 per cent in 2027,&quot; IMF Chief Economist Silvana Tenreyro wrote in a blog accompanying the report, adding that the forecast &quot;remains broadly unchanged from April, despite a more persistent energy market disruption than anticipated&quot;.She warned that &quot;this resilience is under strain&quot;.The report said risks were &quot;skewed to the downside,&quot; warning that &quot;a prolonged stalemate or further escalation in the Middle East could keep energy and food prices elevated and volatile, revive inflationary pressures, worsen fiscal and external balances, and weigh on growth&quot;.]]></description>
                <category>
                        Business
                </category>
                <author><![CDATA[morung.ad@gmail.com]]> (morungexpress.com)</author>
                <guid isPermaLink="true">https://morungexpress.com/imf-raises-indias-growth-forecast-to-7-pc-keeps-it-among-fastest-growing-major-economies</guid>                
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 08:55:07 +0530</pubDate>
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