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08/01/2007: "Naga peace talks to shift gear Subject to progress, Centre, NSCN (I-M) extend Cease Fire indefinitely The Morung Express"

Naga peace talks to shift gear Subject to progress, Centre, NSCN (I-M) extend Cease Fire indefinitely The Morung Express

NSCN (I-M) General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah signs the ceasefire document declaring a truce between New Delhi and the Naga group for an indefinite period of time based on progress of talks at Dimapur Circuit House on July 31, in the presence of Union Labour Minister Oscar Fernandes and the Centre’s chief interlocutor K Padmanabhaiah. The ceasefire comes into effect from August 1, 2007.
Dimapur THE INDO-NAGA peace process took on a dramatic change today. Instead of the ceasefire determining the peace talks, it’s the other way round now.
The historic ceasefire talks held at Circuit House, Dimapur, resulted in extension of the Ceasefire between the Government of India and the NSCN (I-M) for an indefinite period of time, albeit with the focal condition that it is “subject to the progress of the talks.”
The onus now lies on the Centre and the NSCN (I-M) to pursue matters seriously as the state of affairs are now being termed as “fragile” by analysts. Muivah, “the master tactician”, had in 2005 pushed for a ceasefire of the same nature but some of his colleagues had rejected the same idea then and had persuaded him for holding the truce for a year only. Today, he is reported to have reminded in uncertain terms that any slackness on the Centre’s part would result in the talks being called off at “any time.”
Analysts say that in place of hurried pressure in the month of July every year before ceasefire extension, negotiators have to be on their toes now. Moreover, less time would be shed on deciding what to say before every ceasefire extension meeting.
The meeting lasted for about five hours, from 11 am to 3 pm, with both New Delhi and the NSCN (IM) describing it as “very cordial and free and frank exchange of views”.
Two weeks ago, another significant development had taken place when the Centre and the NSCN (I-M) had kept aside for the moment the issue of India not imposing its Constitution, and in the same manner, the Nagas had said they would not press for a separate constitution. The ‘Joint Working Group’ would study the modalities in this regard, it had been settled on.
Briefing media persons after the meeting today, “General (Rtd.)” VS Atem, the special emissary to the NSCN (IM) Collective Leadership said that the Naga people’s concern for early solution of talks were taken seriously and accordingly after reviewing the status of talks, the ceasefire was extended indefinitely with effect from August 1, 2007.
Today’s meeting also discussed the need to strengthen the monitoring system to ensure that “the ground situation remains conducive for the continuance of the ceasefire”. On being asked about the step taken for the strengthening of the monitoring system, Ceasefire monitoring chairman, Lt. General (retired) R V Kulkarni said that the two groups had arranged for a meeting to be held shortly with the Special Secretary, Home, and others at ‘higher levels’ to analyse every aspect of the ceasefire and see how to strengthen it.
To find a “workable solution”, concrete steps have to be taken because if “there is no progress there is no point of a ceasefire,” a senior NSCN (I-M) leader said and added that both negotiating sides have to treat today’s outcome as an “important agreement.”
The choice of the venue of the talks as agreed upon in the first agreement between negotiating sides (that it would be held in a third country) appears to be deviating for convenience sake and for speedier progress.
But what remains to be seen is more transparency in the talks, the imbibing of the voices of the Naga people for democratization of the process and most importantly, the taking of concrete steps. Earlier this morning, negotiators arrived for talks as a large crowd rent the air with shouts of “We want solution. No solution, no extension of ceasefire.” They raised placards asking for an early solution and for dawn of peace. A late-night press release of the NSCN (I-M) said, “In today’s decision, the interest of the people has been given all importance. And from time to time the Naga people opinions and views will be taken into consideration as talk progress because no decision will be taken without consulting the people.”
The Government of India has been asked to “respect the sentiment of the Naga people.”
Joint Press Statement

(Dimapur,31st July 2007)

Negotiations between the representatives of the Government of India and the NSCN were held at Dimapur, Nagaland on 31st July 2007. The meetingwas held in a cordial atmosphere with free and frank exchange of views.

NSCN express that people were concerned for an early conclusion of the talks. After reviewing the status of the talks and ceasefire, it was decided to extend the cease-fire indefinitely, with effect from August 1st, 2007, subject to progress in talks.

Both sides agreed to strengthen the monitoring mechanism to ensure that the ground situation remains conducive for the continuance of the Cease-fire.
Sd/- Sd/-

(Th. Muivah) (K. Padmanabhaiah)

Gen.Secy. NSCN Rep. of the Govt. Of India

Nagaland ceasefire extended indefinitely (IANS)

1 August 2007 DIMAPUR (Nagaland) — Central government negotiators and leaders of a dominant separatist group in Nagaland yesterday decided to indefinitely extend a 10-year ceasefire, aimed at ending six decades of insurgency in the region.
The decision was taken after a meeting between central minister Oscar Fernandes and New Delhi's chief peace negotiator K. Padmanabhaiah with top leaders of the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) in Dimapur, the commercial hub of the state.
"After reviewing the status of the talks, it was decided to extend the ceasefire indefinitely, subject to progress in the talks," a joint statement said.

Peace rally held at Dimapur The Sentinel
DIMAPUR, July 31: In view of the Indo-Naga Peace talks being held at Circuit House, Dimapur today the Naga Hoho organized a peace rally at Walford junction to show solidarity towards peace at the ongoing peace talks between the Central Government and NSCN (IM).
Hundreds of Dimapur town citizens, representatives from NGOs, Churches, students and general public participated at the rally.
The rallyists demanded sincerity from the government of India for peaceful settlement and expedite the political process at the earliest. Participants displayed banners like ‘10 years of negotiation is enough’, ‘No solution, no ceasefire’, ‘We want peace, not ceasefire’.
Naga rebels extend truce indefinitely By Reuters By Biswajyoti Das

GUWAHATI (Reuters) - Naga rebels in country's remote northeast extended a decade-old truce indefinitely on Tuesday, linking it to progress in political negotiations in a move aimed at boosting peace in the troubled region.
The Naga insurgency, India's oldest, is aimed at creating a separate state of "Greater Nagaland" for ethnic Naga people of the region. About 20,000 people have died in the conflict since it began in 1947.
A ceasefire between the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Issac-Muivah), or NSCN (I-M), and Indian security forces has held since it was enforced in 1997 with periodical extensions.
This was the first time it was extended without any time limits.
"The ceasefire has been extended indefinitely subject to the progress of the talks," V.S. Atem, a senior rebel leader, told Reuters by phone after talks with Indian officials in Nagaland.
The demand for the creation of "Greater Nagaland" from Naga-dominated areas of neighbouring states has been ruled out by India, which says other ethnic people living in adjacent provinces are not ready to part with any territory.
Security analysts say peace with the Nagas is crucial to a broader peace in the revolt-torn region.
This was the first time the peace talks were held in Nagaland. Earlier talks took place in New Delhi and abroad.
Rio, NPCC and NPF welcome truce extension Nagarealm.com




DIMAPUR, AUG01 [NPN] : Chief minister Neiphiu Rio, the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) and Nagaland People’s Front (NPF) have welcomed the indefinite extension of the cease fire between the Government of India and the NSCN (I-M) effective from August 1, 2007.
The chief minister in a press release said the extension of the ceasefire “shows the maturity and sagacity and also the concern of both the parties in finding out a lasting solution to the decades-old problem confronting us. It is also a matter of great satisfaction that the talk was held within the State for the first time ever since it started, making it historic.” Rio said the Naga people hoped and pray that as the talks progressed further, an early solution to the decades-old problem would materialize within the shortest possible time.

“While congratulating both the parties, the Naga Hoho, the civil societies, the NGOs, the Churches and all concerned for their discern in tackling this problem, the continued cooperation from every quarter is the need of the hour,” the release added. NPCC in a press release issued by its vice president Khriedi Theünuo said “with the present arrangement of the Peace Process between the Government of India and NSCN (I-M) the desire of the Naga people longing for a solution should not remain a distant dream.” The NPCC urged the negotiating parties to put serious efforts in finding a lasting solution acceptable to all sections of Naga people.
In a separate press statement, NPF secretary general Chubatemjen Ao said it was heartening to learn that the ceasefire had been mutually extended for an indefinite period, which has brought great relief to all people. The NPF party also appreciated the public reception accorded by Naga Hoho, NGOs and various individuals to negotiators of both sides and that “the 10th anniversary talk” had been held in Nagaland, “making the event historic.”

Aiyar sees bright future of NE region Kuknalim.com
DIMAPUR, Union minister for DoNER, Mani Shanker Aiyar today said that he sees a bright future for the north eastern region as the region; especially Nagaland is endowed with huge natural resources which might bring about economic changes in the future.

Speaking after the inauguration of the Nagaland Bamboo Research Centre here at Dimapur, the Union Minister said that Nagaland has huge natural resources and congratulated the people of Nagaland for doing outstanding job of propagating agriculture in the state, contrary to the rest of the country.
Blending in the Naga Colours: Union Minister for DoNER, Mani Shanker Aiyar dons a traditional Naga attire during the inaugural function of the Nagaland Bamboo Resource Centre at Dimapur on July 31.

Aiyar said that over the years, Nagaland has registered a huge 15 percent growth while the country’s agriculture growth remained at 2 percent only. Aiyar said that the rest of the country should follow the example of Nagaland and make the agricultural sector grow, adding that a fast growth in the agricultural sector would make the economy grow at a faster rate. He said that growth rate in agriculture will lead to growth rate in economy and development is a need for economic activities among the farmers.

Aiyar said that he would sincerely try to promote the bamboo research centre.
In this regard, he asked the people to work in the right manner, develop partnership, bring in up to date technologies, so that the future of the state might brighten up a bit.

“The future looks extraordinarily bright,” said the DoNER Minster.
The Union Minister who was whisked away with the state Chief Minister right after he reached the Dimapur Airport paid a whirlwind visit to the Referral Hospital and the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Dimapur.
Speaking about the Referral Hospital, Aiyar said that the development of the hospital, which was initiated twenty two years ago, indicates a process of development. However, interestingly, Aiyar said that the Hospital might start operating from this October; a statement which is contrary to an earlier declaration by the state Governor Sankaranarayanan that the Referral Hoptal will start functioning from this August. Though, Aiyar lamented about the delays in the commencement of the functioning of the hospital, he however, expressed a sense of accomplishment after imagining what the hospital will look like in the future once it is completely completed. About the sports scenario in the state, Aiyar expressed his utter shock at the present condition of the college. He said that he is utterly ashamed of the broken windows and grills. “I am sure that the boys looking though the windows are the only one who did not smile at me,” said Aiyar on the boarders at the Sports Hostel.

Aiyar said that the North East people have excellent sports qualities, which have been dwarfed by the lacked of a comprehensive sports policy. In this regard, Aiyar said that there was a long felt necessity of having a comprehensive Sports Policy, the draft of which has been posted on the website of the Ministry in July 2007. He hoped that sports interested states like Nagaland will read the draft and send constructive comments.

“It is only when we produce sports for all then we will have excellence in sports,” said the Union Minister. The Union Minister said that the centre is trying to have better relations with neighboring countries like Myanmar and Thailand so that the north Eastern region would be opened to the world. “Let us open the North East to the world and the world will see what a remarkable region and what a remarkable place the North East region is,” said Aiyar. (Morung Express News)
Fire in the hole! The hottest chili is ready for the world The Morung Express
CHANGPOOL, JULY 31 (AP): The farmer, a quiet man with an easy smile, has spent a lifetime eating a chili pepper with a strange name and a vicious bite. His mother stirred them into sauces. His wife puts them out for dinner raw, blood-red morsels of pain to be nibbled - carefully, very carefully - with whatever she's serving.
Around here, in the hills of northeastern India, it's called the "bhut jolokia" - the "ghost chili." Anyone who has tried it, they say, could end up an apparition.
"It is so hot you can't even imagine," said the farmer, Digonta Saikia, working in his fields in the midday sun, his face nearly invisible behind an enormous straw hat. "When you eat it, it's like dying."
Outsiders, he insisted, shouldn't even try it. "If you eat one," he told a visitor, "you will not be able to leave this place." The rest of the world, though, should prepare itself. Because in this remote Indian region facing bloody insurgencies, widespread poverty and a major industry - tea farming - in deep decline, hope has come in the form of this thumb-sized chili pepper with frightening potency and a superlative rating: the spiciest chili in the world. A few months ago, Guinness World Records made it official.
If you think you've had a hotter chili pepper, you're wrong. The smallest morsels can flavor a sauce so intensely it's barely edible. Eating a raw sliver causes watering eyes and a runny nose. An entire chili is an all-out assault on the senses, akin to swigging a cocktail of battery acid and glass shards.
For generations, though, it's been loved in India's northeast, eaten as a spice, a cure for stomach troubles and, seemingly paradoxically, a way to fight the crippling summer heat. Now, though, with scientific proof that barreled the bhut jolokia into the record books - it has more than 1,000,000 Scoville units, the scientific measurement of a chili's spiciness - northeast India is taking its chili to the outside world.
Exporters are eagerly courting the international community of rabid chili-lovers, a group that has traded stories for years about a mysterious, powerful Indian chili. Farmers are planting new fields of bhut jolokias, government officials are talking about development
programs.
Chances are no one will get rich. But in a region where good news is a rarity, the world record status has meant a lot of pride – and a little more business. "It has got tremendous potential," says Leena Saikia, the managing director of Frontal AgriTech, a food business in the northeastern state of Assam that has been in the forefront of bhut jolokia exports.
Last year, her company shipped out barely a ton of the chilis. This year, amid the surge in publicity, the goal is 10 tons to nearly a dozen countries. "We're getting so many inquiries," says Saikia, whose name is common in Assam, and who is unrelated to the farmer. "We'll be giving employment to so many people."
For now, at least, transport issues and a tangle of government regulations mean most exports are of dried bhut jolokias and chili paste. But, Saikia added, the paste can be used for everything from hot sauces to tear gas. Because the heat is so concentrated, food manufacturers in need of seasoning can use far less bhut jolokia than they would normal chilis.
India's northeast, a cluster of seven states that hangs off the country's eastern edge, is a place where most people are ethnically closer to China and Myanmar than the rest of India. It's a deeply troubled area, often neglected by the central government in New Delhi, where more than two dozen ethnic militant groups are fighting the Indian government and one another. Many areas remain largely off-limits to foreigners and few days pass without at least one killing.
In Assam, the wealthiest of the region's states, the long-dominant tea industry is facing falling prices and rising costs, and one-third of the population lives below the poverty line. Attacks by the state's main militant group, the United Liberation Front of Asom, and retaliatory government crackdowns, have brutalized the region.
"Maybe this bhut jolokia can help change things here," says Ranjana Bhuyan, a high-school teacher shopping for vegetables in the Assamese town of Jorhat on a recent evening. Like most people here, she normally mixes bhut jolokias into sauces, or pickles them as a sort of spicy relish, but also likes to eat tiny pieces raw, enjoying the flavor and the sharp jolt. "People have been eating this forever," she says. Only in the past few years, though, has the rest of the world even heard of it. The first reports filtered out in 2000, when the government's Assam-based Defense Research Laboratory announced the bhut jolokia as the world's hottest chili. But their tests, reportedly done during research on tear gas, took years to be corroborated. The confirmation came earlier this year from New Mexico State University's Chile Pepper Institute, where spiciness is a religion. The institute got its first bhut jolokia seeds in 2001, but it took years to grow enough peppers for testing.
Their results, backed up by two independent labs and heralded by Guinness, were astonishing. A chili's spiciness can be scientifically measured by calculating its content of capsaicin, the chemical that gives a pepper its bite, and counting its Scoville units. And how hot is the bhut jolokia? As a way of comparison: Classic Tabasco sauce ranges from 2,500 to 5,000 Scoville units. Your basic jalapeno pepper measures anywhere from 2,500 to 8,000. The previous record holder, the Red Savina habanero, was tested at up to 580,000 Scovilles.
The bhut jolokia crushed those contenders, testing at 1,001,304 Scoville units.
While small amounts of bhut jolokia are grown in a few other places, including Sri Lanka and Bangladesh (and a similar variety, the Dorset Naga, in England), horticulturists say the gentle sloping hills, heat and humidity of the Indian northeast make it the ideal greenhouse.
The pepper is known by any number of names across India's northeast. It's the "poison chili" in some areas, the "king of the chilis" in others. Just to the south of Assam is Nagaland, it's eaten in nearly every meal. As a result, it is often called the Naga mircha - the "Naga chili." Still, getting your hands on a fresh bhut jolokia is difficult except in a handful of northeastern towns. A few specialty companies in the United States and Britain sell dried chilis and seeds, but the plants are painfully fragile, susceptible to many pests and diseases, and very difficult to grow.
So it may take a while before farmers outside this region are able to grow the bulbous, wrinkled pepper on a large scale. For now, outside of a few exports, the bhut jolokia will remain with the people who have eaten it for centuries.
Said Saikia, the farmer. "It has become a part of our culture."
Army’s new plan to curb insurgency Our Correspondent Assam Tribune
TEZPUR, July 31 – To launch an effective operation against the outlawed ULFA as well as other insurgent groups active in the region and for restoration of security, a meeting was held here at the auditorium hall of Gajraj Corps, Mission Chariali, Tezpur, recently.

The meeting held under the aegis of Lt Gen RK Chabra attended by higher officials of Indian Army stressed upon the question of how to apprehend the activities of ULFA as well as other insurgency groups that is active in the region.

Lt Gen RK Chabra, addressing the officials, observed that prior to the martyrs’ day of ULFA on July 27, the outfeet may carry out actives to create unstability in society and for this army has to be on high alert. In the meeting jawans who showed better performance in the anti-terrorism operation were awarded.

With a common view of the higher officials of the Indian Army, a new strategy was prepared for controlling insurgency activity in the region.