Kohima, Jan. 11: Even as the NSCN (I-M) and the Centre are trying to hammer out a lasting solution to the Naga problem, there is simmering tension in the state following intelligence reports about a possible spurt in the turf war between the two factions of the NSCN. Describing the situation in Nagaland as “tense,” the security forces have stepped up vigil in the state. Frisking and patrolling by Assam Rifles jawans in the sensitive areas have been increased.

“We are taking all measures to avert any untoward incident,” a senior Assam Rifles official here told The Telegraph.

“The situation in...

New Delhi, Jan. 11: After an hour-long discussion with defence minister George Fernandes, the NSCN (I-M) leaders today said there would be no more fighting between “Indians and Nagas”. Though a ceasefire agreement has been in place in Nagaland since 1997 and today’s reiteration by NSCN (I-M) chairman Isak Chisi Swu is largely symbolic, its significance cannot be overlooked.

For the Naga leaders who have relentlessly fought the Indian Army, the statement shows a complete shift in mood and direction of the outfit.

“I want to tell you that there will be no more fighting between Indians and Nagas...

MIHIMUKH (Kaziranga), Jan 11 — Wonderful activities of domestic elephants on the occasion of the two-day Elephant Festival, that got under way here this morning, reminded the people of the cultural heritage of the State in which elephant occupies a place of love and respect. The festival is organised with the twin objectives of reducing the tension between the elephant and man and promoting State’s tourism. A colourful procession of about 60 elephants from the Kohora NH point to the festival ground here earlier this morning, set the mood of the festival. The elephants, which took part in the...

Imphal, January 11: The first ever Asian theatre festival ended here today with the staging of Ritu, celebrated playwright-director Ratan Thiyam s latest production. Law and Parliamentary affairs Minister L. Nandakumar was the chief guest who declared the festival closed at 'The Shrine' playhouse. Thiyam, widely acclaimed for his series of plays based on war and violence themes, this time turned his focus on the relationship man and environment. Ritu, a brilliant portrayal of Indian cycle of six seasons - Grishma, Varsha, Sharad, Hemanta, Shishir and Vasanta - drawn from Kalidas's detailed...

MAO (Manipur), Jan 11 – Over a span of three centuries 38 villages had sealed treaties of peace with Pudunamei, a small village nestled in a hillock at a high altitude on the Manipur – Nagaland border, revered and feared in those yonder days of head-hunting. And today at a time when the country is looking at the historic Naga talks with hopeful eyes, the 38 Naga villages came together in a memorable celebration commemorating and reaffirming the peace treaties entered into by their forefathers. Unveiling of the monolith on which the names of the 38 villages are engraved and a peace feast marked...