Zabarwan Times E paper english 25 june

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June 25 | 2013 | 15 Shaban 1434 AH | PAGeS 12 |

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VOL NO: 3 | ISSue NO: 152 | RS: 2/- (AIR SuRCHARGe FOR JAMMu /DeLHI/LeH 50 PAISA)

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Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K

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http://www.zabarwantimes.com

Terror strikes Srinagar ahead of PM's visit

PM to release stamp on Mehjoor Srinagar, June 24: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will release a postage stamp on renowned Kashmiri poet Ghulam Ahmad Mehjoor here tomorrow.

“Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will release a postage stamp on Mehjoor at SKICC Srinagar on June 25 in presence of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi,” an spokesman said.

John Samuel, Chief Post Master General Jammu and Kashmir, said the Department of Posts is bringing out the stamp on Mehjoor, a poet of great excellence and doyen of secularism.

This is the second occasion that a postage stamp on Kashmir is being released here.

In 2006, the then President A P J Abdul Kalam released a postage stamp on J-K High Court on its 150th anniversary at the same venue.

Samuel said the stamp is of Rs 5 denomination, and will be available at Srinagar GPO after the its formal release. First Day Cover and information brochure will also be released on the occasion.

Samuel said, release of the postage stamp on Mehjoor is a historic event for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

“Stamps represent cultural and historical importance of the society. The demand for the stamp on Mehjoor is expected to be very high due to his popularity as a poet,” he added.

Abandoned Bag Causes Panic Srinagar, June 24: An unattended bag outside the headquarters of Army’s 15 Corps in Sonawar area of the city led to a bomb scare, resulting in a massive traffic jam on the SrinagarJammu Highway.

A bag was found unattended near the main gate of Corps headquarters Monday morning by the Army personnel posted on duty there, official sources said.

They said a bomb disposal squad was called in to check the bag, which was later found to be containing clothes.

The incident had led to a security alarm as Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is arriving on a two-day visit to the state tomorrow.

While the bomb disposal squad was on job, the traffic authorities diverted all the traffic through By Pass road, resulting in massive traffic jams en route.

3 drown in Valley Srinagar, June 24: Three boys were drowned different places in the valley.

A 25 years old boy Suhail Ahmad Najar son of Mohammad Yousuf resident of Nishat Srinagar was drowned in Nallah, Lidder, Anantnag, in the jurisdiction of police station Pahalgam. Later the body of the drowned boy was fished out at Sadow Padao, Pahalgam.

In another incident a 7-year boy Shahid Ahmad Waza son of Manzoor Ahmad resident of Baliharan, Mirgund was drowned in Sukh Nallah at Baliharan Mirgund, Baramulla, in the jurisdiction of police station Pattan. Efforts are on to retrieve the body.

In another incident. a 16 year old boy Sajad Ahmad Bhat son of Abdul Rehman resident of Bugroo Khansahib was drowned while taking bath in an irrigation canal near Doniwara stop, Budgam, in the jurisdiction of police station Khansahib. The body was fished out from the canal.

Labourer injured in Baramulla Srinagar, June 24: A labourer Bashir Ahmad Bhat son of Sonaullah resident of Bandpora, Lalpora was injured when he came under a land slide while extracting earth at Bandpora, Baramulla. The injured has been shifted SKIMS, Soura, Srinagar for treatment.

Militants attack Army convoy, 8 jawans killed Srinagar, June 24: In an audacious terror strike on the eve of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit, suspected Hizbul Mujahideen militants on Monday ambushed an Army convoy on the outskirts of the city,

Attacks during VVIPs visits

portedly battling for life in Srinagar.

Militants attacked the convoy at Hyderpora bypass on the Airport-Lal Chowk road, outside a private hospital this evening, the second major strike in three days.

Eight jawans were killed and

Srinagar, June 24:

PM to visit Kashmir despite terror strike New Delhi, June 24: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will go ahead with his visit to Kashmir tomorrow despite the terror attack in Srinagar today.

PMO sources said there is no change in the Prime Minister's schedule.

Singh will be undertaking a two-day visit along with UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi to Jammu and Kashmir from tomorrow.

During the visit, Singh is expected to announce a package for border areas of the state.

The Prime Minister and Gandhi will also launch train service between Qazigund in Kashmir and Banihal in Jammu, providing an all-weather surface link to the Valley that often gets cut off from rest of the country in the winter due to heavy snowfall. killing 8 jawans and injuring 14 others. Two jawans are re-

14 others sustained injuries.

The bodies were taken to

There have been several attacks during or ahead of highprofile visits by VVIPs to Jammu and Kashmir.

Following is a chronology of such incidents since 1998: January 1998: As many as 23 Kashmiri Pandits massacred at Wandhama on the outskirts of Srinagar on the eve of former Prime Minister IK Gujral's visit.

May 2002: Senior Hurriyat leader Abdul Gani Lone shot See Attacks on Pg. 11 Badami Bagh cantonment, an Army spokesman said.

While 12 were injured in this attack, another two sustained bullet wounds in a second

JK parties condemn Advani's statement on abrogating Art. 370 ing petty politics, Tanvir said the Chief Minister has categorically said his party would not let anyone change, alter or weaken that special status.

"I am surprised that leaders of a party which was once headed by a person of A B Vajpayee's stature would talk so lame," Tanvir said, adding this shows the "double standard" of BJP leadership and how they want to "hoodwink" people with their "petty politics".

BJP always had an agenda to divide people on the lines of region and religion, he said.

"They feel that raking

Srinagar, June 24: Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir today condemned BJP leader L K Advani's statement on abrogating Article 370 from the Constitution saying, no one will be allowed to change, alter or weaken the state's special status.

"Advani is parroting this slogan because elections are approaching. If he believed in what he is saying, he should have pursued it when he was the deputy Prime Minister," Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's political secretary Tanvir Sadiq said in a statement here.

Accusing BJP of play-

3 Die, 12 Injured in road mishaps Srinagar, June 24: Three persons died and twelve others were injured in different road accidents across the Kashmir Valley.

A Bus bearing registration number JKE/8902 hit a girl Rutba Rafiq daughter of Mohammad Rafiq Dar resident of Khashipora, HMT Srinagar at Shahtulpora, Bandipora. The girl died on spot. A case FIR number 194/2013 under section 279 RPC, 304 A has been registered in this regard.

See Mishaps on Pg. 11

Nagrota, June 24: Hundreds of Kashmir Pandits blocked the Jammu-Srinagar Highway during the night to protest against the power curtailment in the Jagti Township.

Reports said hundreds of Jagti Township came on roads and blocked the Jammu –Srinagar Highway at Nagrota for several hours here on Sunday evening.

Over 1,000 men, women and children took out a protest rally from Jagti township and marched towards the Jammu-Srinagar Highway blocking it at Kol Kandoli Nagrota on the outskirts of Jammu city.

“The life of camp inmates of Jagti Township has become totally miser-

Jammu and Kashmir authorities have revoked an earlier order directing institutes not to arrange picnics for students to famous resorts of Pahalgam and Sonamarg, located on twin routes to Amarnath shrine, to allow smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.

"There is no ban on school excursions to Pahalgam or Sonamarg. We have revoked the order issued last week by the joint director," Director, School Education,

Kashmir, Tariq Ali Mir told said.

Mir said there was no reason to prevent students from visiting these tourist spots.

"Why would we bar our own students from visiting Pahalgam and Sonamarg, when we invite people from all over the world to visit?

What message would it send to the world if we stop our children from interacting with tourists and pilgrims," he said.

The School Education Department, Kashmir had on Friday issued See Picnic on Pg. 11

manning the post. In the firing, CRPF sub-inspector Lala Ram was critically injured, while a policeman sustained injuries.

"One CRPF personnel has been injured in the militant firing near out Rambagh camp," inspector general of CRPF Y S See Killed on Pg. 11

Article 370 Is Article Of Faith: Mufti Srinagar, June 24: Expressing determination to safeguard the special status of the state, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) today said its campaign for revival of peace process with Pakistan actually reflects the urges of a much larger peace constituency in the two countries and not just the people of J&K. Addressing a public meeting in Poonch town situated near the Line of Control (LOC) party patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed also said a fully empowered democratic system was an essential requirement for ensuring that the rights of

KPs block highway to protest power cuts

Govt revokes order on picnic on Yatra routes Srinagar, June 24:

such issues might fetch them some votes and improve their credibility in the country. A party which does not respect the stand of the Parliament about Article 370 of which Advani is also a member, what do you expect from them other then unconstitutional and divisive politics," he wondered.

Pradesh Congress Committee president Saifuddin Soz also condemned Advani's statement.

"I strongly condemn Advani's statement on removal of Article 370 from the Constitution.

Advani is absolutely wrong," Soz said in a statement.

strike.

The militants fled on a motorcycle towards Barzulla check post. They hurled a grenade on the CRPF and police party

able with 14 to 16 hours power cut daily and despite the repeated please the authorities have not taken any step in bettering the situation,” a protester said.

They warned that in case the power cut crisis was not solved the entire population of the township will come on streets and launch a forceful agitation. They demanded that the curtailment schedule prevalent in other parts of Jammu be enforced in the township also.

Expressing the concern over the unscheduled power cut at jagti township the Kashmiri Pandit Conference veteran leader Kundan Kashmiri told to press that Jagti township is the See Protest on Pg. 11

people are no more trampled in the state.

As per a statement Mufti has said, “Article 370 is an

article of faith between J&K and rest of the country and even in its eroded form it grants the state substantial powers that can address the

issues peculiar to it.” He said the element of accountability introduced in state political system after the emergence of PDP will ensure that no party colluded in further disempowerment of the state. “It was lack of political alternatives and a single party monopoly in the past that was responsible for weakening our special status granted by the constitution of the state.

Such a possibility is substantially reduced because of awareness among people and the fact that any party that collaborates in such ventures will do so to its own peril,” he said.

See Mufti on Pg. 11

u'khand: Omar 'salutes' forces for rescue operations Srinagar, June 24: Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah may have differences with the Army over its stand on AFSPA, but on Monday said he admired the forces for rescuing thousands of people from flood-ravaged Uttarakhand.

"Regardless of my disagreements with the Army about AFSPA etc, I have to admire and salute the amazing job being done by them (Army), Air Force, ITBP," Omar wrote on micro-blogging site Twitter.

See Omar on Pg. 11

Army steps up security ahead of Amarnath Yatra Srinagar, June 24: The army has stepped up security across the Kashmir Valley to ensure that the forthcoming Amarnath Yatra passes off without a hitch amid reports of militant threats.

The authorities have deployed army and paramilitary, border security forces personnel in the mountains en route to the holy cave from both the Chandanwari side as well as the Baltal side.

General Officer Commanding of Victor Force, Major

General R R Nimbhorkar, said over the weekend that they had proactively taken all precautions to combat any situation.

"There is a multi-layered security and we have dominated our areas and now we are quite well geared up to take on any challenge if it comes to us and if you say that, it has to be called a pre-emptive and a proactive kind of security," said Major General Nimbhorkar.

Security personnel have began frisking at several places and are regularly checking passing vehicles.

Reportedly, the army would also use the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) for air surveillance during the pilgrimage.

The army has named this security operation as 'Operation Shiva'.

Major General Nimbhorkar hoped to thwart all elements trying to obstruct the pilgrimage.

"Considering the preparations, considering our training and our requirement and what we have done, I am quite sure that we will be able to thwart See Army on Pg. 11

Kashmir Parties, Separatists for Resuming Talks With Pak Srinagar, June 24: A day ahead of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Jammu and Kashmir, mainstream parties as well as separatists organisations were on the same page asking him to restart the dialogue process with Pakistan in finding a lasting solution to the Kashmir issue.

Singh will be arriving here tomorrow on a twoday visit during which he will inaugurate the railway tunnel connecting Banihal in Jammu region and Qazigund in Kashmir region besides laying the

foundation stone for a power project in Kishtawar.

Mainstream political parties including the ruling National Conference, main Opposition PDP and separatist groups like Hurriyat Conference have expressed their opinion for taking the opportunity of extending a hand of friendship to the new government in Pakistan.

"While we want a developmental package for the state, we would also like that the Prime Minister use the soil of Kashmir for extending a hand of friendship to Pakistan

and restart the dialogue process with it," NC's provincial president Nasir Aslam said here.

Similar views were echoed by PDP's spokesperson Nayeem Akhter who said there was a need to revive the peace process.

"Peace process needs to be revived and it was time to go beyond local issues and reach out to stake holders in the region as well as across the border," Akhter said.

He said the Prime Minister should send out signals from Kashmir to the new government in Paki-

stan which seems to be in favour of establishing permanent peace with India.

Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umer Farooq said instead of making this visit a customary one, the Prime Minister should focus on the issues pertaining to people of Kashmir and also initiate a dialogue with all the stake holders.

Asked whether he meant including Hurriyat Conference to be included in the dialogue process, the Mirwaiz said, "We are relevant and that's why we had been holding talks with central leadership

till 2006-07.

"New Delhi should look Kashmir beyond the prism of development, economic and security angle...Imagine a situation where the mainstream Chief Minister (Omar Abdullah) is asking for repeal of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, an Army General says that there is no need. I mean what is the credibility that New Delhi is lending to its own chief minister," he asked.

He said New Delhi should work on finalising Confidence Building Measures See Talks on Pg. 11

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11 Tuesday, 25 June 2013 From Front Page........

Killed............

Yadav said.

The militants, believed to be two in number, then escaped in a waiting black Santro car, police said.

Hizbul Mujahideen has claimed responsibility for the attack. A person Baliguddin, identifying himself as spokesperson of the outfit, called up a local news agency and said several squads have been formed and similar attacks will be carried out in the city in the future as well.

The militants opened indiscriminate firing on the convoy coming from north to south Kashmir and fled the scene in the face of the retaliation, officials said.

Army troops along with police and CRPF immediately cordoned off the whole area and launched a manhunt to nab the militants, officials said.

They said after initial heavy firing, gunshots continued for a few minutes but there were no reports of further casualties in the area.

However, half-an-hour later, firing was reported in Barzulla area, two kms away from Hyderpora on AirportLal Chowk road.

Today's attack comes two days after Hizbul Mujahideen militants gunned down two policemen in the heart of Srinagar city.

The brazen attack came even as security has been beefed up across the valley in view of Prime Minister's two-day visit starting from Tuesday.

PMO sources in Delhi said that there was no change in Singh's programme.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to reach here along with UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi on a two-day visit, during which he is expected to announce a package for border districts of Jammu and Kashmir.

Singh and Gandhi will also launch train service on a railway section between Qazigund in Kashmir and Banihal in Jammu region that will provide an all-weather link to the valley.

Attacks.........

dead in broad daylight at a public rally when the then Prime Minister A B Vajpayee was on a visit to the state.

August 2003: Suicide attack at Greenway Hotel in which ex-legislator Javed Shah was killed when Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was chairing an inter-state council meeting at Sher-i-Kashmir convention centre.

April 2005: Suicide attack in Srinagar city when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was to flag off Karwan-eAman bus service. Tourist reception centre was gutted down.

October 2009: Two persons killed in police action during law and order problem when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was in city to flag off Qazigund-Baramulla railway line.

Omar........

He said everyone must appreciate the massive rescue operations launched by these agencies in Uttarakhand.

"The kind of operation they have mounted to rescue people in #Uttarakhand, with no glory grabbing is something we must all salute," he tweeted.

On media reports that the chief minister expressed displeasure over graffiti by Army and police on Zabarwan hills, Omar said the newspaper needed to change its sources.

"I did NOT fear a L&O (Law and order) disturbance from the writings on the mountain nor did I call them 'disgusting’. Change your sources," he said.

The reports in a section of media claimed that Omar had expressed displeasure over the graffiti on the hills and directed the divisional commissioner, Kashmir, to take action required under law.

The reports also claimed that the official concerned had issued notices to the Army in this regard.

An Army spokesman said the graffiti on the Zabarwan hills was removed suo motu and it had not received any notices from the state administration.

Mufti.........

Stressing the need for a positive response to the calls for peace from neighbouring Pakistan, Mufti has said a bold initiative like the one taken by Vajpayee was expected of the Prime Minister on this ‘crucial’ front. He said, “When we call for peace with Pakistan it does not reflect only the aspirations of our state but the large peace constituency in the two countries. In Pakistan there has been a progressive convergence of interest in peace and now even the army in that country seems to have fallen in line,” he said and urged the Prime Minister to take note of the democratic developments there and also the peace constituency he himself represents within the country.

Welcoming the visit of Prime Minister to the state Mufti has regretted that such occasions ceased to generate a similar atmosphere as they did during the PDP led coalition. He said, “It was unfortunate that Kashmir observed hartals and government responded with stiff restrictions on common people defeating the political purpose of such important visits.” He said these visits were actually an index of the reversal by present government of the progress made by earlier coalition. “They can’t provide safe passage even to the Prime Minister without imprisoning the entire population” observed Mufti, wondering how they could take any larger initiatives or even follow up what had been started earlier.

Coming down heavily on state government for its failure to contain corruption, he regretted that anti-graft institution like State Accountability Commission (SAC) has been made defunct by the present regime through its misdeeds.

He regretted that state government has subverted all moves for necessary reforms for making the governance humane, transparent, accountable, efficient and free from corruption. “Since its formation the present regime has brazenly been indulged into subverting democratic institutions be it assembly, district development boards, urban local bodies or Panchayati Raj Institutions,” he said and mentioned that failure of the state government to conduct urban local bodies elections reflect dictatorial mindset of ruling elites.

Army...........

any designs being taken by inimical elements towards the Yatra," he added.

Daily Thousands of pilgrims undertake this journey to the shrine cave of Shivlinga, of ice.

The cave containing the holy Shiv shrine is located at a snow-capped mountainous peak of the Himalayas.

Such is the faith of the devout Hindus that despite hostile environs, and inclement weather, records are broken year after year as far as the number of pilgrims as evident from the number of pilgrims increasing with each passing year.

This annual pilgrimage commences in the last week of June every year and concludes in early August.

Undeterred by violence, Hindu pilgrims trekked daily through icy streams and frozen mountain passes to 3,800 metres (12,700 feet) high Amarnath cave shrine, to worship an ice stalagmite, believed to be the symbol of Lord Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and regeneration.

Protest.........

mirror of the of Kashmiri Pandit community in exile and inmates in the camp are the constant fear of causality threat due to unscheduled power cut and rob of basic amenities.

“We are facing power cuts for 18 hours. We cannot sleep and perform normal chores due to cuts,” Jagti dweller Satish Pandita said.

He said that despite repeated appeal to the government power supply has not improved in the township. “If the government failed to address our grievances we will be forced to intensify our agitation,” he said.

Mishaps.........

A Tanker bearing registration number JK02X/6747 turned turtle and fell in gorge near Paney Matha, Zojilla in the jurisdiction of police station Sonamarg, resulting in on spot death of the driver Mohinder Singh son of Mohan Singh resident of Munasa Jammu. A case FIR number 08/2013 under section 279,304-A, 427 RPC has been registered in this regard.

An unidentified vehicle hit and injured a pedestrian Bilkeesa Akhter @ Nancy daughter of Ashour Gojri resident of Gujjer Mohalla, Khrew at Khrew, Awantipora, in the jurisdiction of police station Pampore. The injured was shifted to Sub District Hospital Pampore for treatment, where she succumbed to her injuries. A case FIR No. 56/2013 has been registered in this regard.

A Motorcycle bearing registration number JK03/7738 driven by Aiyaz Ahmad Dar resident of Gopalpora hit and injured a pedestrian lady Zubaida Begum wife of Late Mohammad Iqbal Wani resident of New Qazibagh, Anantnag in the jurisdiction of police station Anantnag . The injured have been shifted to hospital for treatment. A case FIR number 194/2013 under section 279,337 RPC has been registered in this regard.

A Maruti Car bearing registration number JK04/6540 hit and injured a cyclist Muzafar Ahmad Najar son of Mohammad Ismail resident of Kach Razger, Khansahib at Bygroo Crossing, Budgam, in the jurisdiction of police station Khansahib. The injured has been shifted to hospital for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard.

A Motorcycle bearing registration number JK01L/6094 driven by Faizan Mushtaq son of Mushtaq Ahmad Shah resident of Buchpora, Srinagar, turned turtle at Sonargund, Budgam resulting in injuries to the Motorcyclist and two pillion riders. The injured have been shifted to hospital for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard. A Mini Bus bearing registration number JK04A/7962 skidded off the road near Chewa, Budgam, in the jurisdiction of police station Beerwah, resulting in injuries to one passenger Bilal Ahmad Dar son of Ghulam Ahmad resident of Russo Beerwah. The injured have been shifted to hospital for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard.

A Tata Sumo bearing registration number JK03B/2953 and a Santro Car bearing registration number JK01K/3637 collided at Charsoo, Awantipora, in the jurisdiction of police station Awantipora, resulting in injuries to four persons. Bisma Yousuf daughter of Mohammad Yousuf, Hafeeza wife of Mohammad Yousuf, Mohammad Yousuf Dar son of Habibullah residents of Athwajan, Srinagar and Aneesa daughter of Manzoor Ahmad resident of Frestabal, Pampore who were boarding the Santro Car were injured in the mishap. The injured have been shifted to Bone and Joints Hospital, Srinagar for treatment. Both the vehicles were seized, a case FIR number 78/2013 under section 279, 337, 427 RPC stands registered in this regard.

A Tipper bearing registration number JK01S/3640 hit a Motorcycle bearing registration number JK01S/4059 at Athwajan Bypass, Srinagar, resulting in injuries to two persons Aadil Hussain Khan son of Abdul Ahad resident of Hardo Shora, Tangmarg and Tariq Ahmad Dar son of Mohammad Sultan resident of Alamdar colony, Srinagar. Both the injured were shifted to SHMHS, Hospital Srinagar for treatment. A case FIR number 50/2013 under section 279, 337 RPC stands registered in this regard.

Talks...........

so that the trust of Kashmiris is rebuilt. "While development, rail, water etc etc is necessary, we cannot wish away the main demand of resolving Kashmir issue."

Aslam also said his party reiterates its demand of partial withdrawal of AFSPA as put forward by Omar.

State PCC chief Saif-ud-din Soz said that the arrival of the Prime Minister and Congress President Sonia Gandhi was welcome to the state. "Whenever the Prime Minister visits the Valley, hope is generated."

He said that central funds have flown into the state freely and "I am sure that the Prime Minister will ensure enriching the lives of the people in the state with more prosperity."

Asked whether the Prime Minister should initiate talks with the stake holders on Kashmir, he said, "The doors of the Prime Minister are always open for the talks. It is for the people and group who need to come forward and talk" without making any reference about the separatist groups who have remained away from the dialogue process.

To a question whether Kashmir soil should be used to extend an offer to Pakistan for re-starting the dialogue process on all the issues including Kashmir, Soz said

"the Prime Minister has already welcomed the election of Nawaz Sharif and the elections in Pakistan saw no animosity with India. "The process will take its own time and the Prime Minister will do what ever is best in the interest of the nation." CPM leader and MLA Mohammed Yusuf Tarigami said "people of Kashmir expect significant intervention from the Prime Minister which can create confidence among Kashmiris. "He (Singh) should also reach out to Pakistan and initiate a dialogue process with the new government there."

However, among these voices, hardliners like Syed Ali Shah Geelani and JKLF Yaseen Malik have given a call for hartal during the visit of the Prime Minister.

Picnic..........

"strict instructions" to both government and private educational institutions in the Valley to "desist" from sending students on excursions to Pahalgam and Sonamarg to allow smooth conduct of the nearly twomonth long pilgrimage.

The order, issued by Joint Director School Education, Kashmir, said "violation" of instructions shall be viewed "seriously".

Mir said the order by the joint director was issued in "personal" capacity and the department will initiate an inquiry into how such a directive was issued. The separatists had condemned the order, calling it "unfortunate" and "an act of repression".

Mir said there was no pressure to revoke the order and it was done as there was "no need" for such an order. The Director, however, said he could not comment on orders banning picnics in Pahalgam and Sonamarg during the Amarnath yatra over the past several years.

Asgar reviews functioning of Sericulture Deptt

Jammu, June 24: To The Commissioner also review the functioning of inspected the Mulberry Sericulture Department, Nursery Chityar (Kallar) C o m m i s s i o n e r and interacted with the Agriculture Production farmers and enquired Department, Dr. Asgar about the facilities being S e m o o n c o n d u c t e d provided to them. It was extensive tour of Rajouri apprised that about 60000 and Poonch districts. mulberry plants are being The Commissioner was produced per annum in the accompanied by Director M u l b e r r y n u r s e r y Horticulture, Mr. Arun established in an area of 29 S h a r m a , D i r e c t o r kanal.

Agriculture, Mr. Ajay The Commissioner asked KJhajuria, Additional the officers to work with D i r e c t o r, M r. M . L . dedication and commitC h a d g a l a n d o t h e r ment for welfare of the concerned officers. farming community. He A d d i t i o n a l D i r e c t o r also announced an award a p p r i s e d t h e of Rs. 10,000 to Nursery Commissioner of financial Incharge, Mr. Dharm Pal and physical achievements of the department for his made by the department in commendable job in the Rajouri and Poonch field. districts. He told that 602 The Commissioner also MTs of cocoons have been visited Cocoon Auction produced in Jammu Market, Nowshera and province, of which, 227 was apprised that Rs. 1 MT have been produced in crore have been earned by Rajouri. Besides, Rs. 772 the farmers on account of lakh revenue has been sale of their production till generated by the farmers in date.

He also visited Jammu province, of M u l b e r r y N u r s e r y which, Rs. 325 lakh Nowshera and inspected revenue generated from the ongoing construction Rajouri district. work of market building.

It was also apprised that H e i s s u e d o n - s p o t 13.50 lakh Mulberry instructions to Executive plants have been planted in E n g i n e e r ( H & P ) Jammu province, of H o r t i c u l t u r e a n d which, 2.80 lakh planted in Marketing Jammu to Rajouri district and 1 lakh complete the work within in Poonch. specific time period.

Hideout busted

Baramulla, June 24: In a joint operation laid by Army’s 35 Rashtriya Rifles and Jammu Kashmir Police a hide out was busted in Baramulla .

During This operation a huge cache of arms and ammunition was recovered in a warlike stores in Ringawari forest of Tangmarg Tehsil, 25 km from Srinagar on 19 Jun. The recoveries include a cache of AK ammunition, AK magazines Chinese

grenades and an Improvised Explosive Device weighing more 10 kg According to a defense communiqué a major tragedy has been averted due to these kind of large recoveries.as per army sources These arms and ammunitions are believed to be used by militants to carry out there activities in near future.

The civil administration also has congratulated the Army on conduct of this successful operation.

Akhoon assumes duties of Advisor to CM

S r i n a g a r, J u n e 2 4 : Legislator and former Minister, Qamar Ali Akhoon Monday assumed the duties of Advisor to the Chief Minister. In the Chief Minister’s Private Office, Omar Abdullah carried Qamar Ali Akhoon to his chair in presence of Minister for Finance, Abdul Rahim Rather and Provincial President NC, Kashmir, Nasir Aslam Wani. Talking to CNS, Qamar Ali Akhoon said that finally Chief Minister Omar Abdullah fulfilled

his promise. “People of Kargil had come on roads when i was ousted from the Cabinet at soon after that Chief Minister had assured my workers and Kargil Council that i will be appointed as Advisor,” he said adding that it will be a new experience for him and he will try his best to live up to the expectations of the people.

The Advisor will be available to the people in the CM’s Private Office situated at Church Lane, Srinagar.

ZABARWAN TIMES

Lone reviews yatra arrangements Jammu, June 24: Minister for Higher Education, Mohammad Akbar Lone, today visited Jammu base cam p at Yatri Ni was Bhagwati Nagar and took stock of the arrangements being made for the visiting Shri Amarnathji Yatris for this year’s Yatra, commencing from June 28, 2013.

The Minister had a round of the Yatri Niwas complex and viewed the venues where various required facilities would be put in place for the Yatris. Additional Divisional Commissioner Jammu R. S. Mehta, Director Tourism Soujanya Sharma, who accompanied the Minister, brie fed him about the facilities to be provided to the Yatris for their comfortable stay. Lone impressed upon the concerned officers to gear up their men and machinery so that all the facilities including power, drinking water, sanitation, transport, security, Langar arrangements and other

facilities would be provided to the Amarnathji pilgrims at the base camp and other stations. He asked CAPD for regular market checking to ensure that the yatris are not overcharged by the shopkeepers during their stay in Jammu. He hoped that this year’s Yatra will be a grand success. The Minister said that the government is determined to ensure smooth conduct of the annual yatra besides ensuring all necessary services to the devotees. Later, the Minister visited the R.S. Pura Degree College and reviewed the functioning of the institute.

The Principal informed the Minister about activities and progress of the college. The Minister stressed upon the teaching fraternity to ensure quality education to the students. The Minister was also informed about the dilapidated condition of the building because of substandard material used in the construction.

National Youth Corps seeks PMs Intervention

Srinagar, June 24: National want justice’, ‘regularization Yo u t h C o r p u s ( N Y C ) is our right’ and so on. volunteers on Monday The protestors said that State staged protest at Press Government had assured Enclave Srinagar in favour them that they will be of their long pending adjusted at a particular time, demands which according to however nothing was done in protestors are quite genuine, this regard. “We appeal transparent and legitimate. Prime Minister Manmohan T h e N Y C v o l u n t e e r s Singh to look into the matter assembled at Press Enclave and address our issue at an and raised slogans in favour earliest,” they said adding of their demands. They were that if nothing will be done, carrying placards and then they have no option but banners that depicted to come on roads along with numerous slogans like, ‘we their families.

Office of the Regional Transport Office Kashmir NOTICE

Whereas a joint application has been received from Shri Bilal Ahmad Shah S/o Ab. Ahad Shah R/o Patlipora Chatabal Sgr. (as Transferor) and Jan Mohammad Pir S/o Mohd. Sultan Pir R/o Zaina Kadal Sgr. (as Transferee) for transfer of Auto Carriage route permit No. 7784/STAR Covering vehicle No. JK01H-2261. Now, Therefore, it is notified for general information that objections, if any to the proposed transfer of the said route permit/vehicle shall be filed in writing in the office of the Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir within a period of seven days from the date of publication of this notice. Seller and Purchaser identified by the authorised representative of M/s ....... namely Mr. ...........

No: JK RTOK 2961 Sd/- Regional Transport Officer Dated: 24-06-2013 Kashmir

Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Anantnag

NOTICE Where as an application has been received from one Shri Mohd. Yousuf S/o Gh. Mustafa Darsaroo R/o Bijbehara Ang. owner of vehicle number JK03B-4061 for cancellation of hire purchase agreement with M/s J&K Bank Ltd. Bijbehara Ang. and HPA agreement with J&K Bank Ltd. Bijbehara Ang. Now, it is therefore, notified for general information that objections, if any to the proposed cancellation of hire purchase agreement shall be filed in writing in the office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Anantnag within a period of 7 days from the date of publication of this notice.

No: ARTO/Ang/Pub/01/2013 Sd/- Asstt. Regional Transport Officer Dated: 24-06-2013 Anantnag RNS Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer Anantnag

NOTICE Whereas a joint application has been received by this office from Mr. Reyaz Ahmad Tabardar S/o Abdul Ahad Tabardar R/o Uranhall Anantnag (Party No. Ist) as Transferor, (Seller) owner of the vehicle Reyaz Ahmad Tabardar bearing Regd. No. JK03A-5505 (Commercial/NonCommercial) covering under R/P No. .... and Mr. Gh. Qadir Mir S/o Gh. Mohd. Mir R/o Achabal Adda Anantnag (Party No. 2nd) as Transferee (Purchaser) requesting for transfer of R/C and R/P of the above noted vehicle from Party No. Ist to 2nd. Before the case is disposed off on its merits anybody having objection regarding the proposed transfer may file his objection within 7 days from the publication of this notice to the office of the undersigned. No, representation/Objection shall be entertained after stipulated period.

No: Sd/- Assistant Regional Transport Officer Dated: 24-06-2013 Anantnag RNS Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer Anantnag

NOTICE Whereas a joint application has been received by this office from Mr. Mir Ghulam Jeelani S/o Late Mir Gh. Nabi R/o Kagazgari Mohalla Nowshera Sgr. (Party No. Ist) as Transferor, (Seller) owner of the vehicle Maruti Car bearing Regd. No. JK03B-6454 (Non-Commercial) covering under R/P No. .... and Mr. Mohd. Masood Lone S/o Asadullah Lone R/o Batapora Yaripora Kulgam (Party No. 2nd) as Transferee (Purchaser) requesting for transfer of R/C and R/P of the above noted vehicle from Party No. Ist to 2nd. Before the case is disposed off on its merits anybody having objection regarding the proposed transfer may file his objection within 7 days from the publication of this notice to the office of the undersigned. No, representation/Objection shall be entertained after stipulated period.

No: 2657/MVD/Ang Sd/- Assistant Regional Transport Officer Dated: 25-06-2013 Anantnag RNS Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer Anantnag

NOTICE Whereas a joint application has been received by this office from Mr. Farooq Ahmad Khanday S/o Mohd. Sultan Khanday R/o Monghall Anantnag (Party No. Ist) as Transferor, (Seller) owner of the vehicle Tata Sumo Victa CX bearing Regd. No. JK03B-0936 (Commercial/NonCommercial) covering under R/P No. 1788/MC/Ang and Mr. Roop Krishan Tikoo S/o Gopi Nath Tikoo R/o Kurigam Qazigund Anantnag (Party No. 2nd) as Transferee (Purchaser) requesting for transfer of R/C and R/P of the above noted vehicle from Party No. Ist to 2nd and cancellation of hire purchase agreement with State Bank of India B/o ADB Anantnag. Before the case is disposed off on its merits anybody having objection regarding the proposed transfer may file his objection within 7 days from the publication of this notice to the office of the undersigned. No, representation/Objection shall be entertained after stipulated period.

No: 2670 Sd/- Assistant Regional Transport Officer Dated: 24-06-2013 Anantnag RNS

Owner, Printer, Publisher & Editor-n-Chief: Suhail Malik, RNI No: JKBIL/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Published from: Govt. Quarters (M-13) Magarmal Bagh Srinagar -190001, J&K, Printed at: Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No: 09999964750, 9796787844

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

CM in Awami Mulakat, meets deputations, individuals

NEWS

Development of weaker sections focused area: Omar Chief Minister said that some two years back he has accepted the request of the area for granting one and a half inches Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Monday water supply pipe in the area and their said that development of weaker sections demand for its upgradation would be conof the society is receiving focused attention sidered actively. adding that the equitable and inclusive deOmar Abdullah told the deputation of velopment constitute important ingredipeople of Yaripora led by MLC Abdul Majid ents of State’s development policy. that government is concenTalking to a deputation trating on consolidation and of All J&K State Pasmanda expansion of educational secTabka Welfare Society led by tor. He said a network of new its President, the Chief Mincolleges, polytechnics, ITIs ister said that upliftment and other educational instiof downtrodden sections tutions have been opened in of the society is being atthe State during the last over tended under various State four and a half years and and Centrally sponsored the process is continuing. schemes. He said besides In reference to the demand providing special attention for new degree college and for enhancing and upgradTehsil and upgradation of ing educational status of health facilities in Kulgam the students belonging to District particularly in Yarithese sections various welfare schemes to ensure economic welfare protected water supply programme are pora area, the Chief Minister said that the genuine demands would be give receiving due attention adding that water of backward classes are in progress. due consideration.A deputation from Omar Abdullah in his Monday Awami supply sector has been flagged as one of Lone News Agency Kangan Khan News Agency Ganderbal Budgam led by Haji Mohammad Yousuf most important five sectors of service Mulakat met scores of deputations from all the Gulzar News Agency Souraby his government. InZahid Book Chadoora stressed on the completion of a bridge. delivery response to Depot across the State and representing various The Chief Minister told the members of demand of the area for upgrading the Agency sections of the society and labour unions.

Tariq News Agencythe Hawal Bashir News Nowhatta deputation that their demand would supply pipeline fromBudshah present one He heard them patiently and gaveAli on News the water Muzaffar Agency Alamgari Bazar Newsthe Agency Lal Chowk be looked into actively. spot directions for redressal of the prob- and a half inches dia to three inches, the lems of urgent public importance while various memoranda were referred to the concerned departments for early action.

Interacting with a deputation from Takanwari led by MLA Mohammad Irfan Shah, the Chief Minister said that augmentation of drinking water and launch of new schemes to cover uncovered areas under

Srinagar, June 24:

Zabarwan Times is available at

Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Magam Dar News Agency Beerwah Reshi News Agency Safapora Basharat News Agency Bandipora Altaf News Agency Pulwama Jeelani News Baramulla BABGUND JUNE 24:cent Agency areas from the Farozpora flood prone Nallah.

Shah News Agency Kupwara inister for Agriculture, The Minister said this Younis News Agency Langate Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir Sunwhile addressing a mammoth Agency Islamabad day announced that aReshi com- News public gathering at Babgund Turray News Agencythis Tral prehensive Flood Protection and Malmoo morning.Mr. Rahi News Agency Kulgam Rah News Agency Byepass

Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Rashid News Agency Dalgate Hilal News Agency Budgam Bhat News Agency Chadoora Zargar News Agency Kunzar Bashir News Agency Sumbal Saleem News Agency Pattan Reyaz News Agency Pampore New Delhi, June 24: The Javaid News Agency Qazigund Minister for Law, Justice and G.M News Agency Sopore on the mega project could be Parliamentary Affairs Mir started Sultan in next News year. He said Handwara Agency Saifullah has said that the that theSheikh project News after compleAgency Islamabad Jammu and Kashmir Govtion would save thousand ernment is going to estabWay News Agency Tral kanals Three of productivity land. lish a Law Commission in Badru News Agency Bijbehara The Minister said that governthe State to help the government isMalik taking News every possible Agency Arwani ment to make new laws and step to protect the Agriculture Shaheen News Agency Kargil view and review pre-consti-

FPP worth Rs 35 crore for Farozepora Nallah submitted to TAC for approval: Mir

Project (FPP) worth Rs. 35 crore has been formulated by the Flood Control Department for construction of protection bandh to protect the Agriculture and Horticulture land of Babgund and adja-

Mir said that the ambitious project has already been sent to Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) for approval and hoped the project would be sanctioned by end of October this year. He said the work

land from flood by way of construction of flood protection bandhs in every area vulnerable to flood prone nallah. He said in this regards comprehensive flood protection projects have already been framed under various schemes including MGNERGA across the state. After completion of these projects, lakhs kanals of agriculture land would be retrieved, he maintained. Mr. Mir said that construction work on Babgund Foot Bridge would be started soon and assured the people that project would be completed .

tutional and obsolete laws.

The Minister was speaking at the 4th meeting of the Advisory Council of the National Mission for Justice Delivery and Legal Reforms held at Vigyan Bhawan New Delhi today. The meeting was attended by Union Minister for Law and Justice, Kapil Sibal, Members of the Advisory Council and Secretary, Department of Justice.

The aim of the meeting was to discuss the ways and means for laying down the policies for the judicial reforms in the country ensur-

Srinagar, June 24:

them. The visitors expressed satisfaction adding that they are moving freely to all parts of the Valley without any fear and enjoying the beauty and hospitality of Kashmir.Mr. Gurezi also inspected Horti-

culture Development Office, Shalimar and directed the concerned to ensure fertilizers and pesticides are provided on time along with valuable inputs from experts to the farmers.

Market checkings at Pulwama, Kupwara Realizes Rs. 27,100 from erring traders PULWAMA, JUNE 24: Performing its role as front line organization in protecting the rights of consumers, Legal Metrology department Pulwama under the supervision of Assistant Controller, Legal Metrology, Mr. Kewal Krishan conducted a surprise market checking of various trade establishments including petrol pumps and weigh bridges of Lassipora and Awantipora area. Inspector Legal Metrology Pulwama, Mr. Mohammed Yasin booked several traders who were indulged in anticonsumer practices and Assistant Controller compounded five cases on spot and realized a sum of Rs.11400/- as compo-

sition. In one such instance, a trader was fraudulently delivering 34 Kgs of rice instead of 35 Kgs by way of less weighing. The trader was booked on spot for this lapse.In the meantime, the Assistant Controller warned the traders not to be indulged in any kind of anti-consumer practices and appealed to the general public of the area to register their genuine complaints with the office of Assistant Controller or Inspector Legal Metrology, Pulwama and assert their right as consumers.The traders were further warned that any future indulgence in any kind of fraudulent practice will be dealt in a competent Court of Law under Legal Metrology Rules and Consumer Protection Act.Meanwhile, the Legal Metrology Unit of district Kupwara under the supervision of Assistant Controller,

Mr. Nazir Ahmad Dar conducted inspection of dealers of imported Mobile Phones, Rechargeable lanterns, Computer accessories and other electronic items of Kupwara market and seized 06 mobile phones and 02 Rechargeable lanterns and booked 05 erring traders for violation of Section 33 of the Standards of Weights and Measures (Enforcement) Act, 1997/ The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011. The team also conducted inspection of other markets and registered 20 cases including 02 petrol pumps for sort delivery and realized a composition of Rs. 15,700/- on spot.It is for the information of the general public to check the mandatory declarations including Maximum Retail Price (MRP) on every packaged item and inform the department in case of any complaint.

Assam legislators calls on Speaker Srinagar, June 24: A group of 8 legislators of the Library Committee of Assam Legislative Assembly headed by its Chairman, MLA Mr. Banendra Kumar Mushahary, called on the Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mubarak Gul here today.

The legislators shared their experiences and working of the Assam Assembly with the Speaker.

The Speaker briefed the group about the functioning of the J&K Assembly, besides the working of Library Committee in detail.

He apprised the group that the Assembly Library has 27,000 valuable ready references in English, Urdu and other languages on various subjects including History, Tourism, Religious, Constitution and Law which have been catalogued properly.

He said the list of the reference books will shortly be put on the website of the Assembly for the benefits of the people of the State in general and the book readers, research scholars, authors and intellectuals of

the country in particular.

Mr. Gul informed the group that the Library of J&K Assembly is being upgraded to national and international standard for which the process has already been started.

The Chairman of the group said that Assam Legislative Assembly has 39,000 references in its Library which are being provided only to the sitting legislators.

He said the Assam government is contemplating to make the system online for which the process has been started.

The Speaker exhorted upon the group to act as ambassadors of the State.

He said as ambassadors they should convey the message of peace, love, brotherhood and composite culture of State in general and Kashmir in Particular to the country.

Besides, Secretary, J&K Legislative Assembly Mr. M. Ramzan, Joint Secretary, Additional Secretary and Committee Officer of Assam Assembly were also present on the occasion.

Saifullah attends 4th Advisory Council meet

Gurezi visits Sonawar Constituency, inspects dev works Minister of State for PHE, Irrigation, Flood Control and Floriculture Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi today visited various areas including Dodha Mohalla Shalimar in Sonawar Constituency of Srinagar District and took stock of the people’s problems besides their developmental needs.

Gurezi also inspected 19-MGD Filtration Plant at Nishat and enquired about its functioning. It was informed that 12 tests per day are performed at the Chemical Laboratory of the Plant. The Minister directed the concerned to ensure e-mail address, SMS and telephone based facilities for registering of complaints by people regarding any polluted and contaminated water supply. Later, the Minister visited Shalimar Garden and inspected the pace of developmental works taken up for the beautification and interior development of the Mughal Garden Shalimar amounting to Rs 4. 37crore.The Minister also met the visitors and foreigners in the Garden and interacted with them. He enquired about the facilities and hospitality extended to

Srinagar |TueSday

ing timely delivery of justice and legal reforms to the satisfaction of the people.

Referring to independent and efficient justice delivery system of the country, the Minister said that any delay in disposal of cases, not only creates confusion amongst the litigants, but also undermines the capability of the system. He said that vacancies of judges, both in the High Courts and Subordinate Courts are required to be increased for the speedy disposal of cases.

The Minister also underscored the need for regular and intensive training of judges to improve their skills further in hearing cases, taking decisions, writing judgments and in court management.

Mir Saifullah said that a mechanism to ensure accountability of subordinate courts and judges is required

to be put in place by the Apex Court as well as High Courts so that judicial officers are made to explain delays and non-disposal of long pending cases. Alternate Dispute Resolution mechanisms like Arbitration, Conciliation, Mediation should be encouraged and often resorted to, he added.

Mir sought cent per cent financial assistance from the Union Government for establishing Panchayati Adalats to reduce the pendency of cases and to provide justice to the citizens at their doorstep without inordinate delay.

The Minister said that joint efforts in consultation with Courts at various levels, Bar Councils, Bar Associations, Universities, Law Commission and NGOs are required to address the problem of delay in timely delivery of justice.

Direct Transfer Scheme to benefit people: Vyas SRINAGAR, JUNE 24 Principal Secretary to Chief Minister and Principal Secretary Finance Mr. B. B. Vyas Monday said that Direct Transfer Scheme will help in transfer of benefits including cash and subsidy directly to the beneficiaries and nationalized banks like Reserve Bank of India, State Bank of India and Jammu and Kashmir Bank shall have to play their vital role for its successful implementation on ground.Mr. Vyas was addressing a high level officers meeting here today in which Principal Secretary, Higher education Mr. K. B. Agarwal, Commissioner Secretary Health, Commissioner Secretary, School Education, Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare, District Development Commissioners of

Jammu, Ganderbal, Kargil, Leh etc attended the meeting.Additional Secretary, Financial Services, GOI, Director Financial Services, representatives of RBI, SBI and J&K Bank interacted with State Government functionaries on Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme and resolved that the beneficiaries of six districts chosen under pilot project in the first phase should get the financial assistance direct through various banks via e-banking.

Director, Department of Financial Services, GOI and other officers apprised the meeting about the implication of the scheme through power point presentations.

Mr. Vyas asked the bankers and District Collectors to generate the list of beneficiaries in shortest possible time .

Sagar conducts Awami Rabta tour of Pulwama

Srinagar, June 24:

Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar today conducted an extensive tour of Pulwama district to oversee the implementation of various flagship schemes, besides conducting Awami Darbar at different places across the district.

It is pertinent to mention that the Minister has already conducted extensive tours of Budgam and Ganderbal districts to get a ground level feedback about the pace of various developmental works.

The Minister while interacting with scores of deputations across the district directed the officers to ensure that the pace of various developmental works undertaken by the Government is speeded

up so that the people get benefits from these. He also appealed the people to actively involve themselves in implementation of these welfare schemes so that an effective feedback is received about the same and need based, holistic development of these areas is ensured.

Mr. Sagar said that the people should understand that the present government under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has right from day first focussed on holistic and comprehensive development of the State and now certain parties in a state of frustration have started a campaign against the same. He said people should understand that such people have always preferred their personal interests over those of state and have been responsible for inflicting miser-

ies on its people.

“Our government has been advocating the revocation of AFSPA from the day we took over besides we have always maintained that comprehensive dialogue process should be started to solve all the issues confronting the state. It was due to the sustained efforts of the government that the tourism sector has started picking up, which would go a long way in boosting the economy of the state, besides providing much needed employment opportunity to the people”, the Minister maintained.

Referring to Panchayat elections and putting in place a vibrant panchayati raj system, the Minister said that by empowering the same we have ensured that the democratic decentralisation of powers takes place and people at

24 .6.2013

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19 Don’t get upset if people don’t take you quite as seriously as you’d like today, Aries. It’s in the nature of the day to keep things light and uplifting. Come out of the intensity of the last couple days and laugh out loud.

Don’t stress over things you don’t understand. Go with the flow and keep smiling. You can’t go wrong as long as you join in the good cheer and merriment of the day.

Taurus April 20-May 20

You might find that something or someone is purposefully trying to make things difficult for you. It might seem like you’re trying to get a handle on the issues, but somehow things are slipping through your fingers.

Don’t make any major decisions, and certainly don’t try to herd people into corners. Let others have their freedom and consider simply riding out the storm.

Gemini May 21-June 21

Lay low today, Gemini. Don’t try to force any answers from people. Eat a healthy breakfast and stay away from caffeine. Relate to people on an intellectual or philosophical level and discuss the meaning of life.

If you’re looking for sympathy, you may need to wait a couple days. People aren’t in the mood. They just want to be left alone.

Cancer June 22-July 22

Inspire others to come out of their shells today, Cancer. Have them join you on the sunny side of the street.

Share your cheer with other people and lead them into boisterous discussions about the world. You will be on cloud nine, with a great deal of strength behind your happy-go-lucky emotions. Keep things light and don’t worry about tomorrow until it comes.

Leo

July 23-August 22 Keep your cool if something goes wrong today, Leo. Don’t be so impatient about fixing a problem that you end up doing something rash. You may do more damage than you would if you just let things sit for a couple days. Mull over the situation, talk it out with others, and approach the issue at another time with a different frame of mind.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Play the lottery today, Virgo. The concept for you is profit with no effort. The windfall will come when you least expect it. The less you try to shape things, the more they will generally flow in your favor. Enjoy the day and don’t sweat the details. Things will work themselves out. People may be quite emotionally charged, but don’t let their behavior throw you off balance.

Libra

September 23-October 23 If you meet someone new today, Libra, break him or her in gradually. Don’t spill all the beans at once. Let the person warm up to your intense emotional nature before you unleash it full force. People are going to need their space, so make sure you allow enough room for emotional and physical freedom. Think about taking a long trip or short vacation of some sort.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 Spare no emotional or monetary expense. Whatever you put into this day will come back to you tenfold. Feel free to indulge and delight in your fun-loving nature.

This day speaks of freedom from restraint of all kinds.

Break the chains and explore new worlds in your mind and your physical surroundings. Don’t say no when the adventure bus comes around to pick you up.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Today isn’t a day to stay inside. Put the past behind you and move on. Grab opportunities with both hands and rev your engine into high gear. Stop looking at what lies behind and focus on the wide-open horizon in front of you. This is an excellent day to turn up the heat and start brewing some new adventures. Transform your life into an action movie with you as the star.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Get your favorite music out of the closet today, Capricorn. Have a dance party in your living room and liven things up with some freshly cut flowers on your table. This is a great day to direct your energies outward into the world. Go on a radical adventure that you didn’t think was possible. Plow headfirst into new projects and let your good luck carry you through.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

It may be extremely hard for you to make decisions about anything today, Aquarius. Don’t stress about work or the things you need to get done. With today’s aspects, it’s a day that shouldn’t be filled with sour energy from the past. You experience a rebirth every time you wake up in the morning. Venture forth into new adventures!

Pisces

February 19-March 20 Today should run quite smoothly for you, Pisces.

You will find that there’s a great deal of power fueling your emotions and that you’re able to take that power to the extreme. Use your strong, dynamic nature to win the hearts of others. Lead the charge toward good-natured fun. You will be laid-back, easygoing, and adventurous.

Take a long-distance trip in your mind.

Editorial/Opinion The Daily

Zabarwan Times Tuesday, 25 June 2013

AILING HEALTHCARE

I

t is no secret that Jammu and Kashmir State is facing acute shortage of doctors and lifesaving drugs in hospitals. There is an acute shortage of doctors particularly in rural areas. Valley hospitals are currently running short of nearly 600 doctors with around 250 doctors being absent from their services illegally for the past several years.Reports suggest that there are 72 Assistant Surgeons, 55 specialists and 62 paramedical posts vacant in hospitals of south Kashmir's Shopian, Pulwama, Kulgam and Anantnag districts only. It seems that the ministry concerned is hardly bothered about these facts.

Just a cursory glimpse of hospitals including sub district and even district hospitals, one can feel that the health care institutions are being manned by a few doctors and a few para medical officials.

These hospitals are without basic facilities including lifesaving drugs, causing tremendous inconvenience to the patients. The pre-operation, post-operation, casualty, ward and gynecological cases are being looked after by a single doctor from evening to morning every day.Not only these health centres lack required number of doctors, infrastructure, proper lavatories and water supply facility but due to scarcity, the patients are left with no option but to purchase surgical equipments and lifesaving drugs from the open market. It seems that these health care institutions have been ignored to the hilt. With doctors unwilling to serve in rural areas, the health ministry has acted tough and cleared a proposal making it mandatory for MBBS doctors to serve a one-year rural posting to be eligible for post-graduate courses from 2014-15.

The situation in rural India is dire; statistics indicate a 60 per cent shortage of general doctors and 80 per cent shortage of specialists. The health ministry’s action is the only option available after various incentives and attempts at tailoring a rural community health course and a cadre of rural doctors failed. However, what the statistics of doctor shortage mask is the equally poor condition of rural health infrastructure. As on March 2011, rural India faced a shortfall of 35,762 subcentres, 7,048 primary health centres, and 2,766 community health centres. The government also faces the daunting task of constructing buildings, supplying medicine and equipment, and staffing the centres with adequate number of nurses, assistants, lab technicians and pharmacists besides doctors. Though the National Rural Health Mission has improved public spending on health care, India’s spending on this count is a mere 1.2 per cent of its GDP compared to China’s 2.7 per cent. The hypocrisy of a government which has failed the public health system — now seen as coercing the medical fraternity for not spreading out into rural areas — is noteworthy. A legal challenge would certainly be mounted against the government order. Equally remarkable is the health ministry’s dual-track policy.

From 2010, it relentlessly advocated creating a rural doctor cadre through a three-year course.

Given names like Bachelor of Rural Medicine and Surgery and Bachelor of Science (Community Health) at various points in time, fears were raised that it would produce ill-trained professionals and reflected the state’s step-motherly treatment to rural areas. Making rural postings mandatory follows the poor response to incentives like 50 per cent reservation in post-graduate (PG) courses and 30 per cent weightage in PG exams for undertaking three-years rural service.

The high premium attached to PG courses will ensure that most MBBS doctors will join a rural posting. Their concerns about accommodation and well-equipped centres with support staff in rural area, and competitive remuneration should be addressed by the health ministry. This “drafting” of doctors into rural service is unprecedented. The allusion to soldiers and preparations on a war footing is not misplaced. Like the hard life in soldiering, the extra year of rural service for doctors comes atop a grueling 4.5year MBBS course, a frenetic year of being a house surgeon, and the difficult preparation for PG exams. Over 30,000 medical graduates are produced every year. Even if one-third of this number enter rural areas, their impact would be revolutionary. But it is difficult to be optimistic considering the government’s track record. It first needs to lay the ground and the means for doctors to work their miracles in villages.

T

Daily

ZABARWAN TIMES 9

Tuesday, 25 June 2013

Important Animals of Indian Wildlife and Conservation

he illegal trade in wildlife is a global issue. From animal parts, like tiger bones and musk glands to live reptiles, birds and ivory, poachers and smugglers illegally poach and traffic a variety of wild plant and animal species.

The two major categories of traded items are live specimens of wildlife species and products from wildlife species.

The wildlife products mostly traded illegally are musk, ivory, rhino horns, tiger and leopard skins and bones; snakes and monitor lizard skins; pet trade and feather for decoration; turtle for meat and soups and Tibetan antelope for shawls.

Animals Involved In Wildlife Trade Tiger- The problem of tiger poaching has come into the limelight because of a number of seizures of tiger skins, bones and other body parts, which took place in different parts of the country. The problem is mainly on account of the high demand for tiger parts, which are used in oriental medicine.

Elephant- Carving of ivory is a traditional cottage industry in South India. The spurt in prices of ivory has been mainly responsible for killing of elephant in India.

It is alleged that poachers do not hesitate to shoot even young elephants down to 5 years of age, which carry tusks of about 2.5 Kg. a piece only. This type of systematic and sustained poaching of tuskers appeared to affect even the genetic potential and sex ratio of the species.

Tibetan Antelope or Chiru – The famous Shahtoosh shawls are woven from the under wool of the animal which has to be killed in order to derive the wool. This animal is migratory and was once found in large numbers in summers in the northeastern corner of Ladakh. Their numbers have now come down to a few hundreds, though they are still found in large numbers in the Tibetan Plateau.

Live Birds – Around 250 native species are trapped in India and are traded mainly for food, zoo, as pets medicine, black magic falconry and taxidermy. Millions of birds are caged for trade of which two thirds die during capture or during transportation.

Rhinoceros - This animal is now on the Protected Areas are geographical areas set be permitted at the time of settlement. endangered list mainly due to trade in rhino apart exclusively for the conservation of Forest areas of Government land adjacent horn. The horn fetches about 2,00,000 to biodiversity and where the prime objective to National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries 3,00,000 rupees in India and much more in of management is conservation of normally have important flora and fauna. the international market. Its meat, bones biodiversity. There are four categories of This can be declared as Conservation are also used for medicinal purposes. Protected Areas declare under Wild Life Reserve. At the same time the private or Rhino population in India faces threat of (Protection) Act, 1972. They are community land having flora and fauna poaching because of the mythical Sanctuaries, National, Parks, Conservation cultural values in proximity to Sanctuary, properties attributes to its horn and its Reserves and Community Reserves.

National Park or Conservation Reserve can astronomical prices in the international There are 606 National Parks and Wildlife be declared as Community Reserve. This is market. As the economic incentive is Sanctuaries in the country out of which 96 always done with the consent of local provided by the prices of Rhino horn, large are National Parks and 510 are Wildlife people. number of Rhinos are killed every year Sanctuaries. In the field of National Parks The Government has important schemes inspite of serious efforts on the part of the Andaman and Nicobar and Madhya for management of protected areas which Government.

Pradesh top in the list with nine National is in the form of assisting State Governments. There are three main schemes namely Development of National The wildlife products mostly traded Park and Sanctuaries, Project Tiger and Project Elephant. Under Development of illegally are musk, ivory, rhino horns, tiger National Park and Sanctuaries financial assistance is given for expansion of the protected area network and to create and leopard skins and bones; snakes and infrastructural facilities.

Under the centrally sponsored Project monitor lizard skins; pet trade and feather Tiger Scheme, which was launched on April 1, 1973 on the recommendation of for decoration; turtle for meat and soups Special Task Force of the India Board for wildlife, the States received 100 per cent financial assistance for non-recurring and Tibetan antelope for shawls. items and 50 per cent assistance for recurring items. The objectives of Project Decline In The Population Of Wild Parks followed by West Bengal, Tiger Schemes are to ensure the mainteAnimals Maharashtra and Kerala each with six nance of viable population of tigers in There is no constant decline in the National Parks. The States of Uttaranchal, India for scientific, economic, aesthetic, population of wild animals. Fluctuation in Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Karnataka and cultural and ecological values, to the population of wild animals is a natural Assam each have five National Parks. preserve such areas for benefit education phenomenon and can be attributed to both Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Jammu and and enjoyment of the people and to biotic and abiotic factors: Kashmir each posses three National Parks. improve the biotope and stimulation as Biotic Factors include natural deaths due to The Islands of Andaman & Nicobar posses per conservation. There are 28 Tiger age, competition, disease out-break, forest highest number of Wildlife Sanctuaries to Reserves in the country. fire, flash flood etc. the tune of 96. Maharashtra and Himachal Under the Project Elephant Scheme, 24 Abiotic Factors include unnatural death Pradesh stand second with 35 and 32 elephant reserves in 12 States have been due to: Wildlife Sanctuaries respectively. States of declared to protect elephant population in Human induced factors like intentional Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, the wild and develop there habitat. It was killing and unintentional or accidental Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, launched in the year 1991-92 as a sequel to deaths on roads, rail tracks etc.

Tamilnadu and Uttar Pradesh each have a series of efforts to conserve this magnifiThe intentional killing of wild animals more than 20 Wildlife Sanctuaries. cent specie. The 12 States are Assam, mainly done for pecuniary gains, animal No rights or concessions are available to Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra protein and as a retaliatory action. people in National Parks whereas in Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Meghalaya, Protected Areas For Conservation And Wildlife Sanctuaries regulated grazing and Nagaland, Orissa, Tamilnadu, Uttar Protection certain rights not harmful to Wildlife can Pradesh and West Bengal.

Climatic Zones and their Characteristics

C

limate in a narrow sense is usually defined as the “average weather”, or more rigorously, as the statistical description in terms of the mean and variability of relevant quantities over a period of time ranging from months to thousands or millions of years. The classical period is 30 years, as defined by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). These quantities are most often surface variables such as temperature, precipitation and wind. Climate in a wider sense is the state, including a statistical description, of the climate system.

The difference between climate and weather is usefully summarized by the popular phrase “Climate is what you expect, weather is what you get”. Over historical time spans there are a number of static variables that determine climate, including latitude, altitude, proportion of land to water, proximity to oceans and their currents, mountains, persistent ice or snow cover, humidity, rainfall, atmospheric particle count, the density and type of vegetation coverage affecting solar heat absorption, water retention, and rainfall on a regional level. Alterations in the quantity of atmospheric greenhouse gases determines the amount of solar energy retained by the planet, leading to global warming or global cooling.

Modern climate classification methods also focus on the relative frequency of different air mass types or locations within synoptic weather disturbances, plant hardiness, evapotranspiration, air mass origin and certain biomes.

Regions having similar characteristics features of climate are grouped under one climatic zone based on the climatic factors.

The country can be divided into a number of climatic zones. India can be divided into six climatic zones, namely, hot and dry, warm and humid, moderate, cold and cloudy, cold and sunny and composite. Particularly mean monthly temperatures-minimum and maximum and relative humidity are considered here. A place is assigned to one of the first five climatic zones only when the defined conditions prevail there for more than six months. In cases where none of the defined categories can be identified for six months or longer, the climatic zone is called composite.

According to recent code of Bureau of Indian Standards, the country may be divided into five major climatic zones. It is seen that the

recent classification is not very different from the earlier one except that the cold and cloudy, and cold and sunny have been grouped together as cold climate; the moderate climate is renamed as temperate climate. However, a small variation is noticed as far as the land area of the country corresponding to different zones is concerned. It may be mentioned that each climatic zone does not experience the same climate for the whole year.

Hot and Dry The hot and dry zone lies in the western and the central part of India, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Sholapur are some of the towns that experience this type of climate. The mean monthly temperature remains 30 degree celsius and relative humidity 55 %.

Atypical hot and dry region is usually flat with sandy or rocky ground conditions, and sparse vegetation comprising cacti, thorny trees and bushes. There are few sources of water on the surface, and the underground water level is also very low. Due to intense solar radiation (values as high as 800-950 W/m2), the ground and the surroundings of this region are heated up very quickly during day time. In summer, the maximum ambient temperatures are as high as 40-45 oC during the day and 20-30 oC at night. In winter, the values are between 5 and 25 oC during the day and 0 to 10 oC at night. It may be noted that the diurnal variation in temperature is quite high, that is, more than 10 oC. The climate is described as dry because the relative humidity is generally very low, ranging from 25 to 40% due to low vegetation and surface water bodies.

Moreover, the hot and dry regions receive less rainfall – the annual precipitation being less than 500 mm. Hot winds blow during the day in summers and sand storms are also experienced. The night is usually cool and pleasant. A generally clear sky, with high solar radiation causing an uncomfortable glare, is typical of this zone. As the sky is clear at night, the heat absorbed by the ground during the day is quickly dissipated to the atmosphere. Hence, the air is much cooler at night than during the day. In such a climate, it is imperative to control solar radiation and movement of hot winds. The design criteria should therefore aim at resisting heat gain by providing shading, reducing exposed area, controlling and

scheduling ventilation, and increasing thermal capacity. The presence of “water bodies” is desirable as they can help increase the humidity, lot of heat in the afternoons and evenings.

Warm and Humid The warm and humid zone covers the coastal parts of the country. Some cities that fall under this zone are Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata.

The high humidity encourages abundant vegetation in these regions.

The diffuse fraction of solar radiation is quite high due to cloud cover, and the radiation can be intense on clear days. The dissipation of the accumulated heat from the earth to the night sky is generally marginal due to the presence of clouds. Hence, the diurnal variation in temperature is quite low. In summer, temperatures can reach as high as 30 – 35 o C during the day and 25-30 o C at night. In winter, the maximum temperature is between 25 to 30 o C during the day and 20 to 25 o C at night. Although the temperatures are not excessive, the high humidity causes discomfort. An important characteristic of this region is the relative humidity, which is generally very high, about 70-90% throughout the year. Precipitation is also high, being about 1200 mm per year, or even more.

Hence, the provision for quick drainage of water is essential in this zone. The main design criteria in the warm and humid region are to reduce heat gain by providing shading, and promote heat loss by maximizing cross ventilation. Dissipation of humidity is also essential to reduce discomfort.

Moderate Pune and Banglore are examples of cities that fall under this climatic zone. Areas having a moderate climate are generally located on hilly or high-plateau regions with fairly abundant vegetation. The solar radiation in this region is more or less the same throughout the year. Being located at relatively higher elevations, these places experience lower temperatures than hot and dry regions. The temperatures are neither too hot nor too cold.

In summers, the temperature reaches 30 – 34 o C during the day and 17 – 24 o C at night. In winter, the maximum temperature is between 27 to 33 o C during the day and 16 to 18 o C at night.

Cold and Cloudy Generally, the northern part of India experi-

ences this type of climate. Most cold and cloudy regions are situated at high altitudes.

Ootacamund, Shimla, Shillong and Srinagar are examples of places belonging to this climatic zone. These are generally highland regions having abundant vegetation in summer. The intensity of solar radiation is low in winter with a high percentage of diffuse radiation. Hence, winters are extremely cold. In summer, the maximum ambient temperatures is in the range of 20 – 30 o C during the day and 17 – 27 o C at night, making summers quite pleasant. In winter, the values range between 4 and 8 o C during the day and -3 to 4 o C at night, making it quite chilly. The relative humidity is generally high and ranges from 70 – 80 %. Annual total precipitation is about 1000 mm and is disturbed evenly throughout the year. This region experiences cold winds in the winter season. Hence, protection from winds is essential in this type of climate.

Conditions in summer are usually clear and pleasant, but owing to cold winters, the main criteria for design in the cold and cloudy region aim at resisting heat loss by insulation and infiltration, and promoting heat gain by directly admitting and trapping solar radiation within the living space.

Cold and Sunny The cold and sunny type of climate is experienced in Leh (Ladakh). The region is mountainous, has little vegetation, and is considered to be a cold desert. The solar radiation is generally intense with a very low percentage of diffuse radiation. In summer, the temperature reaches 17 – 24 o C during the day and 4 – 11 o C at night. In winter, the values range from -7 to 8 o C during the day and -14 to 0 o C at night. Winters thus, are extremely cold. The relative humidity is consistently low ranging from about 10–50 % and precipitation is generally less than 200 mm per year. Winds are occasionally intense. The sky is fairly clear throughout the year with a cloud cover of less than 50%.

As this region experiences cold desert climatic conditions, the design criteria are to resist heat loss by insulation and controlling infiltration. Simultan eously, heat gain needs to be promoted by admitting and trapping solar radiation within the living space.

Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer.

HE A L+H 58

ZABARWANTIMES ZABARWAN TIMES TUESDAY | 25 JUNE 2013

Listen to your body while you workout

If you are battling too hard following an extreme exercise routine to get into shape, you need to rethink.

While you might shed those extra kilos faster, pushing your body too far will have repurcussions.

Everyone wants to be in shape and many are rigorously into various levels of extreme fitness activities.

But these are actually causing more harm than good to you, in your quest to lose weight. Says fitness expert, Jivesh Shetty, "People who want to shed weight soon or are enthusiastic about following an extreme exercise routine to stay fit and in form, should be cautious about the kinds of exercises they are opting for. For example, marathon running is said to cause cardiac problems." Jumping with weights and dumbbells In group classes, you are advised to do the plyometrics (a type of exercise designed to produce fast and powerful movements) with light weights. Hopping on step-up benches, lunges and other movements in-

clude holding dumbbells or light weights strapped on your ankles. Though jumping is good to burn calories, jumping with weights on might end up in a tissue or muscle rupture or a ligament tear. "If you are enthusiastic about jumps, you should opt for the kettleball swing," says Althea Shah, fitness expert. Dumbbell and barbell movements can be done in a more specific resistance training programme, where each movement is monitored by an instructor.

Training on an empty stomach If you believe training on an empty stomach in the morning will help you burn the calories you consumed last night, then you are wrong. Says Shah, "When you wake up in the morning, your glycogen levels are low in the body and though you tend to burn more calories, you don't realise that there is a high probability of your body deriving calories from your muscle tissue." Have a light meal before you start your workouts in the morning.

Regardless of bra size, age or health, many women suffer breast pain or discomfort during everyday life and exercise because their breasts are not properly supported, said a University of Wollongong academic.

When Professor Julie Steele first published a scholarly review on the science of breast biomechanics, which found that breast bounce caused 50 per cent of women pain during exercise and daily life, postcards flooded in from around the world."It was the first time in my 30 years working on injury prevention that I've received handwritten postcards," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Professor Steele as saying. "Women from all over the world, from all walks of life, wrote to me, often with stories about their discomfort, thanking me for taking this topic seriously," she revealed. ost women assume supportive sports bras will be uncomfortable."But they don't have

If your body is clicking, cramping and whirling while you work out, stop and listen to what it has to sayCracking joints, cramps and even yawns mean much more if they happen while you're in the gym. When you're working out, the body adjusts to the change in activity level. It reacts differently to anaerobic (short bursts of high intensity) and aerobic (low bursts of moderate intensity) exercise programs and expresses them through these symptoms.Experts say these are signs that should make you go 'hmmm'. Feeling giddy Dr Shivani Chowdhury Salian, an associate professor in the Department of Physiotherapy at Dr DY Patil University puts the reasons for dizziness down to drop in blood pressure, sudden change of position (sitting to standing or vice versa), drop in blood sugar or exercising at a high intensity. Exercise may also trigger a pre-existing condition such as an inner-ear disorder that causes vertigo. Have you forgotten

to be," said Professor Steele, who runs Breast Research Australia (BRA), one of only two independent research institutes of its kind in the world.Researchers in Britain estimate that during sport, the average breast can move 21 centimetres (about the length of a box of tissues) in a figure eight movement.

Breasts don't only move up and down, they move side to side, and even in and out. Given the average breast weighs about the same as 1.2 litres of milk and is held in place by skin and Cooper's ligaments, that's a lot of bounce or slide.Professor Steele, who is the associate dean of research at the faculty of health and

to breathe? Concentrating on a movement may make you hold your breath, limiting oxygen supply. Nuri Khan of Studio 5 Aerobic Centre says, "Drink water before you start. You could also be over-exercising or doing it too fast. Lack of sleep can also make you giddy."How to fix it: Check your blood pressure and get a good night's sleep.

After a spell, walk around

slowly for several minutes to bring down your heart rate. Don't put your head between your knees (lower than your heart). It will affect your blood pressure and make you feel faint.

Sip on water or an energy drink. "If your dizziness worsens, get medical attention. It could indicate a seizure or stroke," says Salian. You break into a yawn Yawning indicates

fatigue or high level of exertion. It also reflects the brain coolingdown after high activity. Excessive yawning is what you need to pay attention to. It may be caused by a vasovagal reaction, which may indicate a heart problem. If you find yourself falling asleep on the treadmill or while driving, you may suffer from sleep apnea or narcolepsy.

US scientists are challenging the popular notion that we can "work up an appetite" with vigorous exercise, saying it actually reduces a person's motivation for food. James LeCheminant and Michael Larson, both Brigham Young University professors, measured the neural (brain cell) activity of 35 women while they viewed food images, both following a morning of exercise and a morning without exercise. The research shows that 45 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise in the morning actually reduces a person's motivation for food. They found their attentional response to the food pictures decreased after the brisk workout, the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise reports.

"This study provides evidence that exercise not only affects energy output, but it also may affect how people respond to food cues," LeCheminant said, according to a Brigham

behavioural sciences of Wollongong University, said there were "significant medical implications of inappropriate breast support".Poorly adjusted bra straps can cause headache, backache, and numbness and tingling in the hands because the straps apply excessive pressure to nerves that cross the shoulder and innervate the hand.

Chandru Nayar, who started beefing up at 50, tells Saadia S Dhailey about the secret to ageing backwards.

We are ushered into a cozy Bandra home by a help.

We've come here to meet a 'muscle man' who, we heard, romances dumbbells when people his age order for a walking stick.

There's a picture in the study, where we wait for him — at first glance we think it's Sylvester Stallone. "We get that often,"says Jayavanti Nayar. She and her husband, engineers by qualification, tutor children in Math and Technical Drawing.

"Parents of our students often ask me why I have Stallone's picture framed."

Well, that actually is her

husband Chandru Nayar, and clicked when he was 52.He may not be as beefed up as he was during his Mr India days, but well, the man surely doesn't look 68. Nayar sums up his own story, "Men start looking good in their 30s and 40s, but I started look good in my 50s." For an elaborate account, read on.Journey to the gym Nayar, who has nicknamed himself as the 'naked nutritionist', for posing shirtless for innumerable pictures, says the first time he ever stepped into a gym was when he was 46. "I was an athlete in school, and also was competitive boxer, but once I started working I had no fitness regime at all," he confesses. Overtime, however, Nayar remembered

his family's poor medical history. "It's like if your father had a heart attack, you will too," he muses.

He said he wanted to fight his bad genes.An informed approachIn 1990, when his son went to America to study, he went with him.

"There I studied nutrition and biochemistry," he tells us. This armed him with a healthy approach to exercise and nutrition. "As I started eating well and exercising, muscles grew.

I saw my first muscle at 50. And that felt good," he says. Watching his progress, Nayar's gym mates suggested that he compete for Mr Bombay in the masters category (for men above 40). And he won it, as well as Mr Maharashtra the same year. And in

statement. The study measured the food motivation of 18 normal-weight women and 17 clinically obese women over two separate days. On the first day, each woman briskly walked on a treadmill for 45 minutes and then, within the hour, had their brain waves measured. Electrodes were attached to each participant's scalp and an EEG machine then measured their neural activity while they looked at 240 images - 120 of food meals on plates and 120 of flowers. The same experiment was conducted one week later on the same day of the week and at the same time of the morning, but omitted the exercise.

Individuals also recorded their food consumption and physical activity on the experiment days. The 45-minute exercise bout not only produced lower brain responses to the food images, but also resulted in an increase in total physical activity that day, regardless of body mass index.

The secret to age backwards 1997, he represented Asia in the Asian Masters, and returned as runner-up.

Colour-coded diet Nayar says, "My diet thumb rule is to have as many colours on my plate as possible." He prefers to eat three fruits a day, and he chooses each of a different colour. His meals are colourful too. "That's because every colour signifies a different nutrient compound, and like this I can get most of it." He suggests, "Whatever vegetables you have in the kitchen — all the reds, yellow and greens — throw them in together and cook them slightly. Nayar also prefers a mixed bag of beans. "For dinner, every day 10 kinds of beans are soaked, and cooked together.

Healthy pakoras for rainy evenings We don't really know how There are many days- too many in fact- when we have unbearable cravings for foods that are not so healthy, and crunchy.

Pakoras top this list. The weakhearted amongst us, inevitably, give in to these sinful indulgences; feeling guilty post that is a compulsory affair. But now you can make different types of innovative pakoras, with different fillings, batter, seasoning and dips that still taste yum and can be healthy too "Fillings such as fruits (pineapple, litchis, raw bananas and citrus fruits), meats and vegetables (potatoes, onion, brinjal, zucchini, capsicum, chilies) jell well with besan. One can also make pakoras with pulses and grains, breads and cottage cheese," informs Chef Gautam Mehrishi, corporate executive chef at Sun n Sand. Apart from besan, one can make a batter with rice flour, tempura flour (Japanese flour), mixture of flour with corn flour or can use corn flour by itself. Let's take a look!

Red pumpkin bhajiya Ingredients: Grated pumpkin: 1 cup Onion: 1 large, chopped lengthwise Besan flour: 4 tbsp Rice flour: 2 tbsp Ginger garlic paste: 1/2 tsp (Optional) Red chili powder: 1 to 1.5 tsp Curry leaves: 2 sprigs Salt to taste Oil for deep frying Method: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, chopped onions, grated pumpkin, salt, red chili powder, ginger garlic paste and curry leaves and mix very well. No need to add extra water at all. Heat oil to deep fry. Take a small portion of pumpkin mixture and drop them into the hot oil. Deep fry the fritters until golden brown and crispy

and remove from the oil.

Serve on a cloudy day with a cup of hot tea.

Nachni coated onion rings Ingredients: Nachni flour - 400 grams (3 cups) Corn flour - 100 gms Flour - 50 gms Black salt - T/T White pepper - T/T Oil - for frying Carbonated soda - 100 ml Method: Cut onion rings and separate them to get thick and intact rings.

Prepare a batter with the three flours, seasoning and liquid carbonated soda, adding chilled water if required.

Rest the batter for two to three minutes in a warm place, meanwhile heat oil to a moderate temperature and then dip the onion rings individually and fry till crisp.

Serve hot with mustard and honey dip.

Baked pakoras Ingredients: For stuffing- potato (you can substitute with any filling of your choice), salt, chopped thyme. For batter- 2 cups of besan / rice / tempura, corn flour, thyme, pepper, salt, and olive oil Method: -Cut potato into very thin slices.

-Flavour with salt and some freshly chopped thyme, leave it for two minutes.

-Dab them with a kitchen towel, to remove excess water.

-Prepare batter with besan.

-Lightly roast the besan.

-Once it cools down add room temperature water. -Add corn flour (if two cups besan, then one cup corn flour).

-Season the batter with thyme, crushed pepper and salt.

-Preheat the oven at 220 degree Celsius. Line the tray with olive

to breathe!

oil. Dip the slices in the batter and bake in the oven for 2 minutes.

They need to be golden brown in color after which you turn them and let it bake for another 1 minute. -Serve hot with a tomato dip.

Tandoori salmon tikka Ingredients: 250 boneless, skin-on salmon filet 6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 1 3" piece ginger, peeled and roughly chopped Sea salt, to taste 3 tbsp. olive oil 1 tbsp. white vinegar 1 tbsp. Kashmiri red chili powder 1½ tsp. cardamom seeds 1½ tsp. garlic powder 1½ tsp. ground cloves 1½ tsp. ground ginger 2 cups plain yogurt 1 tbsp minced fresh cilantro 1 tsp garam masala 1/2 small cucumber, peeled, seeded, and minced Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Method: Place salmon on a flat clean platter and set aside. Puree garlic, ginger, and ¼ cup water in a blender.

Using a rubber spatula, smear

garlic mixture over flesh of salmon, along with salt, half the oil, vinegar, 1 tsp. chili powder, and half of each of the following: cardamom, garlic powder, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and ground ginger. Toss to coat; and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Combine 1 cup yogurt, chilies, and remaining oil, chili powder, cardamom, garlic powder, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and ground ginger in a bowl; season with salt. Pour yogurt mixture over salmon and gently massage into flesh, and refrigerate for 1 more hour. Meanwhile, make the raita: In a small bowl, combine the remaining yogurt, along with the cilantro, garam masala, and cucumbers. Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle some chili powder over the top; set raita aside.

Skewer the salmon and bake in a hot tandoor until fish is crisp, lightly charred, and cooked through, 08-10 minutes. Take the salmon out from th e skewer, transfer salmon to a serving platter and serve hot with the raita sauce.

It seems, most of us don't know how to breathe — the one thing we thought we knew at birth If you catch a cold often, or suffer from sinusitis worse than Kaa's from Jungle Book, it's possible that you are not breathing right. The Yoga Institute in Santacruz, the oldest organisation of its kind in the world has over 1,000 members, several of whom have respiratory ailments.

For those who can't sign up, the institute holds frequent day-long workshops of which the Respiratory Workshop is popular for the kriyas, asanas and pranayam that teach you how to breathe correctly.

These exercises, says institute director Hansaji Yogendra, work collectively to up lung capacity, decrease shallow breathing, ease a cold and cough, and calm the mind. Here are five exercises that will work like magic.

4 Ways to beat the common cold - Don't sit under a fan or in a moving vehicle when your hair is wet. It will aggravate your sinus.

- Sit in the sun for 10 minutes with your eyes closed every day.

- When eating out, drink a glass of warm water afterwards to wash out food particles that can irritate your throat.

- Cover your head when you sleep.

Do what? Sit like a Yogi it's called Sukhasana

Why do it You must start all yoga exercise sessions with this asana. It straightens the spine, slows the metabolism and stills the mind.

How to - Sit with your legs crossed.

Make sure that you've drawn your tummy in, and your spine is erect.

- Rest your palms on your knees, and relax your shoulders and elbows. Close your eyes and breathe normally.

Do what? The chewing gum bend it's called Hastapadasana Why do it It's a complete exhalation exercise, emptying your lungs of air, before you let in a fresh batch. The best bit? It helps tone your stomach, and the forward bend towards gravity tones the back muscles.How to - Stand with your feet slightly apart, hands hanging by your side. Raise your arms above your head as you inhale.

- Exhale for three seconds, and bend down till your hands can grip your ankles, and your head is wedged between your upper arms.

Don't bend your knees.

- Hold your breath and the posture for a few seconds.

Come back to standing position and inhale again.

Do what? Let nose meet knee it's called Padmasana Yoga MudraWhy do itIt improves breathing, calms the brain, and the belly fold puts pressure on the

intestines, liver and spleen to rid you of digestive complaints.

How to - Sit with your legs crossed, back straight. Inhale and take both hands back, holding your right wrist with your left hand.

- Exhale, bend forward at the waist, and rest the forehead on your left knee. At this point, suspend breathing for six seconds.

- Return to the original position in three seconds while inhaling. Repeat on the right side.

Do what? Stretch like a palm tree it's called TalasanaWhy do itIt increases lung capacity, cures chest congestion that is often a reason for back pain.

How to- Stand with your feet 12 inches apart, toes parallel, chest thrown forward.

- Inhale for two seconds, while lifting your arms to the ceiling. Join them above your head in a namaste.- Rise on your toes while letting your body stretch as much as you can, pulling yourself upward as it were.- At the maximum position, maintain your breath for four seconds.

Exhale for two seconds while lowering your arms, and heels back flat on the ground.

Do what? Breathe through alternate nostrils it's called Anuloma Viloma Why do itA natural nasal cycle requires you to breathe equally from both nostrils, one after another.

NATION

7 SRINAGAR Tuesday, June 25, 2013

After Narendra Modi’s ‘rescue’ act, Rahul Gandhi arrives in Uttarakhand

New Delhi/Dehradun: Thousands of people remain stranded in Uttarakhand, eight days after the hilly state was pounded by rain.

While the Army and Air Force are leading a heroic and massive effort in the state, politicians appear to be searching for approval ratings in a national tragedy. (Read: Don’t visit as it hampers relief, says Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde to VIPs)The Congress is in power in Uttarakhand. The government today said it would not allow “any state government unilaterally taking rescue efforts which includes deploying choppers and other means.”

That was an unsubtle reference to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi who recently swooshed into Uttarakhand with a team of officials who chartered planes and luxury buses to evacuate 15,000 Gujaratis, according to media reports.The Congress was quick to criticise Mr Modi for what some newspapers have described as his “Rambo act.” It reflected, Congress minister Manish Tewari said, “rank opportunism and sheer desperation to try and politicise and even milk tragedy for political gains.” Mr Modi’s opponents

have also criticised him for singling out Gujaratis for help.This morning, Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi flew to the capital of Uttarakhand to take stock of rescue efforts. Before that, he stood by his mother, Congress president Sonia Gandhi, as she flagged off a convoy of trucks carrying clothes, medicines, packaged food and candles for flood-ravaged Uttarakhand.Mr

Gandhi had been attacked by the BJP for not rushing back to India when Uttarakhand turned into a national disaster. BJP spokesperson Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi taunted the ruling party saying, “The Congress itself is a national disaster. When the country is in such need, then the yuvraj (crown prince) of the country (Rahul Gandhi) was abroad.”

The general elections due next

Don’t visit Uttarakhand as it hampers relief: Sushilkumar Shinde to VIPs

Shinde’s advise came on a day when Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi was visiting the disaster-hit hill state.

Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde today advised VIPs not to visit rain-ravaged Uttarakhand saying such visits created difficulties in relief and rescue operations.

“We advise all VIPs not to visit Uttarakhand now. All agencies are engaged in relief and rescue efforts...Such visits hamper their works,” he told reporters here.

Shinde’s advise came on a day when Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi was visiting the disaster-hit hill state.

The Home Minister said if

any VIP does not listen to the advise, he may not be given landing permission in Uttarakhand.

A stream of VIPs have visited Uttarakhand in the wake of the natural disaster to oversee relief and rescue operations.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi have made aerial visit to the hill state, while Shinde himself, chief ministers Narendra Modi (Gujarat), Bhupinder Singh Hooda (Haryana),

MiG-29 fighter aircraft crashes; pilot safe

JAMNAGAR: A MiG-29 fighter aircraft on a routine sortie today crashed near Lalparda village in Gujarat’s Jamnagar district, with the pilot ejecting safely.

“A MiG-29 fighter jet today crashed at 13.30 hours near Lalparda village south of Khambhalia town,” IAF officials said.

The aircraft was on on a routine sortie, they said.

“The pilot ejected safely when the plane crashed,” they added.

IAF has ordered a court of inquiry in the matter, officials said, adding that their team is reaching the spot where the crash took place.

In August 2012, nine Air Force personnel, including five officers, on board two MI-17 helicopters were killed when two choppers of the Jamangar air base had collided mid-air shortly after take off.

Ashok Gehlot (Rajasthan) and Prithviraj Chavan (Maharashtra) have visited the state in the last few days to review relief operations.

Representatives of several other state governments too have toured Uttarakhand.

year are seen by many as a face-off between Mr Gandhi and Mr Modi, though neither has been named as his party’s candidate for prime minister.Mr Modi has further aggravated the Congress, which governs Uttarakhand by tweeting he had offered to help repair the damage around the famous Kedarnath temple, located in the epicentre of the tragedy.

While a complete analysis of the disaster will be possible when more details are available at this stage it is only possible to make an initial assessment of the response to the disaster.The jury is still out on how the blame is to be apportioned between human actions and nature’s fury for the Uttarakhand disaster. However, from the disaster management perspective the catastrophe has exhibited characteristics of a complex event due the combination of hazards - flash floods and landslides and the inclement weather which precluded access by air to the region in the initial stages. The resultant destruction of ground transportation infrastructure also impacted the time taken to respond.

Lastly being a hilly area the disaster zone has got divided into isolated pockets of devastation which has hampered relief work.While a complete analysis of the disaster will be possible when more

Patna: In a veiled threat to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on the offensive against him after the Janata Dal (United) parted ways with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partner, Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar on Monday said that if he opened his mouth, many of them would be in trouble.

“If I open my mouth, a lot of people will be in trouble,” Kumar told reporters on the sidelines of a programme in Patna.

The BJP president Rajnath Singh, who addressed a party rally in Patna on Sunday, had trashed JD(U)’s allegations that Narendra Modi was an autocratic and divisive leader. He had attacked JD(U) for ‘suddenly’ finding fault with the Gujarat chief minister and his leadership after being part of the alliance for 17 years. Rajnath Singh had also questioned Nitish Kumar’s growing proximity to the Congress.

Singh’s predecessor Nitin Gadkari has accused Nitish Kumar of playing vote bank politics to fulfil his prime ministerial

details are available at this stage it is only possible to make an initial assessment of the response to the disaster. The representatives of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) were found doggedly responded to the media on the government’s response to the disaster; indicating a lack of institutional protocols and public awareness of these.

The NDMA is responsible for formulating guidelines on responding to various disasters but has no powers or the infrastucture to enforce them, evaluate their implementation or conduct relief operations, as disaster management is a state subject. The Uttarakhand government has admitted that, as pointed out by CAG, it has fallen short of the disaster preparedness standards laid down by the NDMA.The national executive committee (NEC), which is chaired by the home secretary is the implementation agency for the NDMA’s disaster man-

push forward implementation of the Indo-US civil nuclear deal and for more defence co-production and co-development, besides cooperation in higher education and other issues.

The India-US Strategic Dialogue, inaugurated in 2009, is a forum to discuss the full range of US-India cooperation on bilateral and regional issues, reflecting the strong strategic partnership between the two countries.

The topic for discussion during Kerry’s visit will also include bilateral and regional economic engagement, regional security and defence, science and technology, climate change, and other global issues such as women’s empowerment, non-proliferation and space cooperation.Afghanistan, the drawdown by the US-led international forces, the US’ proposal of talks with the Taliban, the elections there next year are also expected to figure as well as other regional matters, including relations with Pakistan.

However, one of the higlights of the meet was US approval of India’s actions towards Iran.

Shinde, Chidambaram booked for ‘cheating’ Telangana people

Andhra Pradesh Police have booked union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram for allegedly “cheating people of Telangana” by going back on their word over formation of a separate state.A case under section 420 of Indian Penal Code (cheating) was booked Monday at L.B. Nagar police station on the outskirts of Hyderabad against the two central ministers on the direction of a district court, a police officer said.

The police took the action after a court in Ranga Reddy district pulled up the Station House Officer (SHO) of the police station for not following the orders passed Jan 28 this year.The SHO last week appeared before the second metropolitan magistrate’s court.

The court took cognizance against him under section 166 (a) of the IPC (public servant disobeying the law) on a complaint filed by Telangana Junior Advocates’ Association member Naresh Kumar.

The court Jan 28 had directed the police to file First

BJP leaders will be in trouble if I open my mouth: Nitish Kumar

ambitions. Former deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi, former NDA convenor Nandkishore Yadav, Rajiv Pratap Singh Rudy, Shahnawaz Hussain, Ravishankar Prasad, C.P. Thakur and state BJP president Mangal Pandey have been firing verbal salvos at Nitish Kumar after the parting of ways.

The acrimony widened so much that workers of JD(U)

and the BJP clashed on the streets of Patna during the Bihar bandh on 18 June. BJP MLAs had unleashed a verbal attack on Kumar during the confidence vote. After JD(U) snapped ties with BJP on 16 June, Nitish Kumar had said political issues would be answered politically and advised leaders of both parties not to point fingers at each other.

Uttarakhand: Falling woefully short of disaster management standards

Civilian nuclear deal, Iran on the agenda as John Kerry meets Salman Khurshid

US Secretary of State John Kerry and the Indian Foreign Minister Salman Khurshid began the 4th round of the joint India-US Strategic Dialogue on Monday in New Delhi.

The higlights of of their meeting included: An announcement that American Vice President Joe Biden will visit India in late July.The US Secretary of State reaffirmed that India and the USA share common interests in Asia, Indian and Pacific Oceans and share similar visions of peace.

India is equipped to take on some of the biggest challenges of our time, said Kerry.

Moving forward on the nuvlear agenda, Kerry said, “I look forward to the early implementation of the civil nuclear deal”.

The Indo-US relationship, as President Obama said, is one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century: Kerry.

All appropriate countries have been notified about Snowden’s status legally that he is an indicted person and wanted in the US: John Kerry.Kerry, who arrived here Sunday on a three-day visit, has said he was keen to

DAILY ZABARWAN TIMES

Information Report (FIR), probe the allegations and also file a status report before it by Feb 14.

The petitioner alleged that both Shinde and Chidambaram made misleading statement on the Telangana issue, thereby cheating the people of the region. He sought the court’s directions to refer the matter to the police for investigation and registration of a case.

Naresh Kumar mentioned in his petition the statements made by the two cabinet ministers. During the allparty meeting convened by the home ministry on Telangana in New Delhi Dec 28 last year, Shinde stated that the Telangana issue would be resolved within a month.

Chidambaram as then union home minister Dec 9, 2009, had announced that the process for formation of separate Telangana state would be initiated.

However, following protests in Andhra and Rayalaseema regions, Chidambaram Dec 23 same year modified the statement, saying there is need for more consultations over the issue.

agement guidelines. Articulating the national policy on disaster management in national and international forums is the responsibility of the disaster management division of the home ministry which functions under the Secretary (Border Management) and should have been disseminating information on how the disaster was being responded to.As for information dissemination, the disaster management division is supposed to have a functional Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in communication with the state EOC which is required to provide situational awareness to all government ministries and the public at large to aid coordinated response.

However, it was the NDMA which was releasing bits and pieces of information as and when it was available, possibly through the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) The EOC is also required to coordinate relief operations at the na-

tional level, ensuring suitable responses by various ministries such as defence, railways, food and supplies et al. The EOC of the Uttarakhand government was required to perform a similar function at the state level. Alas, adhocism has been the bane of disaster management in India.An issue directly influencing the impact of a disaster, particularly for the ordinary citizen, is that of providing early warning. In India’s disaster management framework, the Indian Metrological Department (IMD) is the nodal agency for gathering information from the concerned agencies and issuing disaster-related early warnings. In this case, the IMD warned the Uttarakhand government of the likely heavy rainfall in the region 48 hours in advance.The warnings related to high water levels and flooding are to be generated by the Central Water Commission (CWC) and sent to IMD for dissemination.

West Bengal panchayat polls not possible without adequate forces: SEC

Panchayat elections in West Bengal sank deeper into uncertainty on Monday with the State Election Commission telling the Calcutta High Court that without adequate security forces it cannot hold the polls.

The Centre has also expressed its inability to spare central forces for the polls owing to commitments in rain-devastated Uttarakhand, apart from other exigencies.The SEC told a division bench comprising Chief Justice Arun Mishra and Justice Joymalyo Bagchi that availability of forces from the state government was “hopelessly inadequate” and asserted that it cannot take the responsibility of holding the elections without adequate forces.The SEC counsel S. Pal submitted that the state government had given repeated assurances since the high court’s order of June 14 to the state to provide adequate forces as per requirement of the commission but has failed to do so in real terms.Mr. Pal said he felt that there was a deliberate plan not to hold the elections.

He also questioned the Centre’s alibi for not providing the central armed police force claiming that it

has to be taken with a pinch of salt.

Appearing for the central government, counsel S.S. Sarkar submitted that owing to the massive natural calamity in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh for which central forces were being used for rescue and relief operations and other reasons, it would not be possible for the Centre to spare its forces.

He stated that central forces were also in deployment for Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir, to tackle militancy in Assam, law and order problem owing to Telangana agitation in Andhra Pradesh and antiMaoist operations in different states.

Mr. Sarkar submitted that holding of local polls was a state responsibility and that central forces were not used for that purpose.

He also claimed that the state

government has a large number of forces of its own, including 42 battalions of CAPF, two of IRB and 20 battalions of State Armed Police, which can be used for the purpose of peaceful conduct of elections.

The SEC counsel claimed the Centre has in its own affidavit admitted to have provided central forces for panchayat polls earlier and also claimed that its refrain of inadequacy of forces owing to the Uttarakhand calamity was “to be taken with a pinch of salt”.

Claiming that the SEC has been demanding 800 companies of central forces since 2012 for conducting the rural polls in a free, fair and peaceful manner, Pal submitted that the state government should have written much earlier to the Centre seeking the forces.The West Bengal government had written to the Centre on May 29 seeking 300 companies of central forces but the Centre has expressed its inability to provide the forces.Appearing for the state, Advocate General Bimal Chatterjee submitted that the SEC’s demand for central forces was a novel situation and it has not happened before.

40 seats enough to make Mulayam Singh PM: SP

BALIA: Exuding confidence that a strong third front would emerge after the Lok Sabha elections, Samajwadi Party general secretary Kiranmoy Nanda said even if his party bagged 40 seats, its chief Mulayam Singh Yadav would become the Prime Minister.

A strong third front would emerge after the upcoming general elections, Nanda told party workers here yesterday.

The Uttarakhand natural calamity had damaged prospects of the Congress further and it would not get even 100 seats, he said.

On the other hand, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, head of the BJP’s poll campaign committee, alone was enough to sink his party’s boat, Nanda said.

“The NDA is scattered and will not get support of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa,” the SP leader said.

In such a scenario, a strong third front would emerge after the Parliamentary elections, he said.

Even if his party secured 40 Lok Sabha seats, Mulayam would become the Prime Minister, the SP general secretary said.

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