Zabarwan E-Paper English 12 February

C M Y K

WEDNESDAY

12 February | 2014 | 11 Rabi-Al-Thani 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

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VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 43 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)

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

Eminent Experts highlight role of DMAs, NGOs in Disaster Management

Srinagar, Feb 11: One dies while a minor girl was injured in road traffic accidents in the valley.

According to a police statement issued to KNS, Farhat Hussain son of Ghulam Hussain resident of Dab Ganderbal who was injured when his motorcycle he was driving skidded off the road near Wayil bridge, Ganderbal on 09-02-2014 succumbed to his injuries at SKIMS Srinagar. Ganderbal police has already registered a case in this regard.

An Auto bearing registration number JK03/2258 driven by Muzaffar Ahmad Sheikh son of Mohammad Abdullah resident of Doonipawa Anantnag hit and injured a minor girl Mehvish Jan daughter of Mohammad Iqbal See Dies On page 11..

Fida appointed as acting chairman SHRC

Srinagar, Feb 11: Governor of the state NN Vohra Tuesday appointed Rafiq Fida as Acting Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) with immediate effect recognising his services and contribution in the Commission. Necessary orders in this regard have also been issued vide SRO No. 30 dated 10.02.2014.

The details received by KNS stated that Rafiq Fida, who is the senior most Member, is serving as Member of the Commission See Fida On page 11..

22036 benefitted under ISS: Sakina

Minister for Social Welfare, Ms. Sakina Itoo today informed the House that under the Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS) the benefit has been extended to 22036 beneficiaries in Budgam, besides 7000 new cases have also been taken up under the scheme.

Similarly, under Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS), Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWAPS), Indira Gandhi National Disable Pension Scheme (IGNDPS), Rehabilitation of militancy hit

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On Edit Page Drug Abuse and Kashmiri Society

Kashmir valley, known as Peer Waer has been an abode of moral values since times immemorial. Almost all the religions flourished here with sincere tolerance and respect for every religion.

Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani (RA), Lal Ded and many other Reshis, Sufis and Saints taught human values and religious tolerance. But all these values are now witnessing erosion particularly since when political uncertainty engulfed this valley. The youths being impatient, eager to earn fast buck& make a certain future started adopting shortcut methods & fell prey to materialism as they could not resist temptations.

Those who adopted this path landed

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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

Light Rain/Snow would occur at a few places over the state.

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

Partly cloudy sky. Maximum &Minimum temperatures will be around 08°C & -01°C respectively.

TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM MINIMUM SUNSET ON(WEDNESDAY) SUNRISE ON (THURSDAY)

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Ruckus in House over administrative units

PDP members scuffled with marshals, MLA Tral injured Jammu, Feb 11: Continuing with their tradition of turning Law making House into a fish market, legislators in Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Tuesday created ruckus while heated arguments were exchanged between ruling and opposition members.

According to CNS, as the Assembly proceedings started on Tuesday, Peoples Democratic Party members created noisy scenes over the alleged discriminatory allocation of administrative units and some of the members of PDP including Choudhri Zulfkar stormed into well to grab the attention of the Speaker Mubarak Gul on the issue.

Some of the members stood on the benches and started raising anti-government slogans.

PDP legislators alleged “discrimination” with Kashmir in the creation of new administrative units. Some of the PDP members amid anti- Omar Abdullah slogans pushed the Marshals and threw chairs. The commotion lasted for several minutes and Speaker Mubarak Gul was forced to adjourn the House for 15 minutes.

As the session started again, PDP members protested against and demanded new administrative for those areas which had been ignored. Various PDP members stormed into well again and came to blows with marshals.

Mushtaq Ahmad Shah, a PDP legislature and MLA Tral, received injuries after he was allegedly dragged from a bench. he was immediately rushed to hospital for treatment, where

Speaker adjourns Assembly amid pandimonium

‘PDP legislators behaviour shameful’

Srinagar, Feb 11: The speaker had to adjourn the session of the legislative assembly on Tuesday when the main opposition party PDP created ruckus on the floor of the house and protested against the creation of new administrative units in the state.

After the proceedings of the budget session started today morning, the PDP legislators stormed the session and raised anti establishment slogans.

Several leaders went into the well to protest against the discrimination being shown during the creation of new units in the state.

The reports informed that due to the nosing scenes and See Speaker On Page 11..

Jammu, Feb 11, : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday wasted no time to log into his ‘Twitter’ account when Peoples Democratic Party legislators scuffled with Marshals over the proposal for new administrative units in the State.

“Want to see shameful behaviour of elected representaOMAR TWEETS t i v e s - c h e c k out the opposition in the J&K assembly standing on tables” Omar Abdullah tweeted.

Omar Abdullah continued with his tweet which said, “seems they (PDP legislators) really are totally shaken up by our decision to create so many new administrative units See PDP On Page 11..

his condition was reported to be stable. The opposition members PDP legislators also raised slogans against Omar Abdullah for not arresting ex-minister Shabir Khan in a molestation case. They also raised issues like JKCA scam allegedly involving NC president Dr Farooq Abdullah and custodial death of NC worker Syed Yousuf. Amid chaos and confusion, there

were heated exchanges between Independent legislator from Langat constituency Engineer Rasheed and minister Mohammad Akbar Lone from the National Conference. Speaker Mubarak Gul's repeated requests to maintain order in the house failed to calm the agitating legislators after which the speaker adjourned the session for the whole day. (CNS)

Road communication receiving focused attention: Omar

Inside story

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Retains captaincy for Asia Cup

Gurezi for early completion of Veterinary Hospital buildings

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1 dies, 1 injured in road accidents

5.8 0C -1.1 0C 06:12PM 07:19 AM

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No rift with salman

Inaugurates Marlboro Bridge in Kathua Kathua, Feb 11: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Tuesday said that construction of bridges and roads received a considerable fillip during the last five years of his government to provide better road communication and link up rural and remote areas with main highways. “This was also aimed at ameliorating the lot of people living in backward areas by helping in the generation of economic activities of wide-range”, he added.

Inaugurating Rs. 17.18 crore, 310 metres span double lane prestressed concrete Bridge over Tarnah Nallah at Magloor in Kathua District of Jammu Division this afternoon, the Chief Minister said that about 265 major bridges were completed in the State during the last five years besides 500 road construction projects.

The Chief Minister said that road communication sector being essentially important for inclusive

socio-economic growth received priority attention and about 10,000 kilometres of roads have been constructed and upgraded besides macadamizing 15,000 ki-

lometres in the State during the last five years.

The Chief Minister said that two flyovers one each See Omar On page 11..

Amnesty International Team calls on CM’s Political secretary Omar committed towards upholding, protecting human rights - Tanvir

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Jammu, Feb 11: Reiterating the stand of the National Conference led government to ensure that no human rights violation occur, the Political secretary to Omar Abdullah today said ‘that the government is committed to ensure that no human rights violation occur’ According to a statement issued by NC to KNS, "Death of any innocent civilian is always a matter of concern and pain for any government. We have and shall take all appropriate steps to ensure that no human rights violation occur,' Omar Abdullah’s Political Secretary Tanvir Sadiq said on Tuesday while speaking with Christine Mehta and Ragu Menon of Amnesty International who called on him at Jammu.

“Government is committed towards

upholding and protecting human rights and the State has zero tolerance policy against any such reported violation” Tanvir said adding “The Chief Minister has always maintained that Human rights of people should be respected and has also asked the police to differentiate between strictness and misbehaviors while discharging their duties "The Chief Minister has categorically directed the security forces to strictly follow the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure that no innocent lives are lost and no collateral damage is caused while dealing with law and order situations,' said Tanvir The political secretary said that Necessary amendments were brought about in the J&K Criminal Procedure Code last year to enable the State Government to notify the “Victim Compensation Scheme” "This aims at providing financial help for the treatment, care and rehabilitation of the victims of crime" See Amnesty On page 11..

Day 3

Rashid takes on Lone ‘Power greedy NC ruining Kashmir’

Jammu, Feb 11: Amid pandemonium, chaos and unruly scenes in Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Tuesday over the proposal for new administrative units, there were heated exchanges between Independent legislator from Langate constituency Engineer Rasheed and Minister for Higher Education and National Conference leader, Muhammad Akbar.

“People of Kashmir voted for you but your party National Conference is stabbing Kashmiri’s in their back and providing all benefits to Jammu,” Rashid remarked pointing his finger towards Lone who was opposing the move of Peoples Democratic Party legislators over the creation of administrative units.

Lone shot back at Rashid saying that it is none of his business to criticize the policies of National Conference. “You take care of your See Rashid On page 11..

CM visits GMC Hospital Ascertains health condition of Tarigami, Shah Jammu, Feb 11: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah this afternoon visited Government Medical College Hospital, Jammu to ascertain the health condition of Legislator, Mohammad Yusuf Tarigami who is admitted there for chest pain. The Chief Minister also enquired the health status of another Legislator, Mushtaq Ahmad Shah who was injured in an unfortunate incident in the Legislative House this morning.

The Chief Minister visited both the Legislators interacted with them, asked about their health condition and prayed for their early recovery. Legislators and Provincial Presidents of National Conference, Devinder Singh Rana and Nasir Aslam Wani accompanied the Chief Minister.Meanwhile, reports reaching KNS said that various See CM On page 11..

Kashmir observes shutdown

Srinagar, Feb 11: Kashmir valley Tuesday observed a complete strike on the third consecutive day on a call extended earlier by Kashmir’s pro-freedom camp against the hanging of Maqbool Bhat and Afzal Guru.

Authorities had imposed restrictions in several volatile areas of Srinagar and other towns of valley. Barricades, concertina wires were placed in the middle of the several connecting roads to thwart the possible protest demonstrations.

Shops and business establishments remained closed and the centre of state’s summer capital wore the deserted look. Several JKLF activists Tuesday appeared in Maisuma Main chowk and started taking a protest demonstration. The protesters were raising slogans for Maqbool Bhat. They were later stooped by police and were whisked away.

Most of the separatist leaders were either kept under house arrest or were detained in sev-

eral police stations across valley.

Chairman Huriyat (G) syed Ali Geelani continues to remain under house arrest while as Chairman JKLF Mohammad Yasin Malik was detained at Police station Kothi Bagh.

The reports maintained further that the senior Huriyat G activists and leaders including Mohammad Yasin Attae, Bashir Ahmad Bhat and

PDP, BJP frustrated: NC If our protest is unlawful, what about Haji Yousuf’s killing: Mehbooba Srinagar, Feb 11: Taking strong note of the protest demonstrations by PDP and BJP during the assembly proceedings, Senior NC leader and a minister Ali Mohammad Sagar Tuesday stated that the ‘bizarre’ acts of the opposition parties is a sheer frustration against the remarkable success of the present coalition government.

Sgar, while talking to KNS outside the assembly secretariat on Tuesday said that the opposition parties are giving vent to their frustration by causing serious disruption on the floor of the house. He added that the historic steps taken by the government in the recent past like the creation of new administrative units and incorporation of 73rd amendment in the panchayat raj act of the state has given sleepless nights to the opposition and that they are left with no option but to halt the house’s proceedings.

Sagar asserted further that the house will not succumb to the disruption being caused by PDP and BJP and that it will

continue to discuss the problems faced by the common masses of the state. “We will continue to raise the issues of people and will strive to resolve the same.”

Ridiculing the incidents wherein some legislators stood on tables to register their protests, Sagar stated that the people are the best judges and they can differentiate between friends and foes. “How come theses pathetic actions are going to help the opposition? This is clearly unlawful and unconstitutional.”

Opposition Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti while striking back at NC stated that her party wants to concrete announcement over the formation of new administrative units in the state and that discrimination must be shunned at the earliest. “They say that our protest was unconstitutional, we want to ask them what was the killing of Haji Yousuf, the slaughter of See NC On page 11..

Imitiyaz Haider continues to remain detained at Budgam police station from the last five days.

The similar reports of Shutdown are coming from other areas of valley also with the private and government offices witnessing very thin See Shutdown On page 11.. attendance of the employees.

AAP will sweep Lok Sabha polls in J&K: Kejriwal

Srinagar, Feb 11: Terming the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah a ‘dynast’, Delhi chief minister and Aam Admi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal stated that his party will sweep the forthcoming polls in the state.

Kejrewal while speaking at a Delhi Literature Festival on Monday stated that chief minister Omar Abdullah is a dynast politician and that his party Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will soon open its offices in Jammu and Kashmir and will register a glorious triumph in the forth coming polls.

Replying to the question that Omar Abdullah had recently challenged Kejriwal that his party will face defeat if it contests elections in the state, Kejriwal while striking back at Omar stated that AAP will in near future open its offices in the state and will give lesson to the corrupt politicians there. (KNS)

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Srinagar, Wednesday 12 February 2014

From the front page

Speaker PDP’s ruckus, speaker Mubarak Gul adjourned the proceedings for fifteen minutes. The reports informed further that later during the protest, a PDP legislator and MLA tral Mushatq Shah was allegedly dragged from a bech due to which he was injured. Shah was rushed to Hospital.

Medical Education minister and Congress Leader Taj Mohidu-din after visiting the injured legislator at Hospital, told KNS that his condition is stable and his test reports are normal.

Earlier, scenes were witnessed in the Assembly as PDP legislator threw chair and pushed the Marshall and raised slogans against Chief minister Omar Abdullah. PDP legislators stormed into the well of the House raising slogans against Omar Abdullah for not arresting ex-minister Shabir Khan in a molestation case.

PDP legislatures also raised issues like JKCA scam allegedly involving NC president Dr Farooq Abdullah and custodial death of NC worker Yousuf Shah. While terming the behaviour of PDP shameful, Chief minster Omar Abdullah cornered PDP over standing of the tables in the house during the protest and their scuffle with the marshals.

“Want to see shameful behaviour of elected representatives-check out the opposition in the J&K assembly standing on tables,” Omar Abdullah tweeted. Later Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah visited GMC hospital to inquire about the health of Mohammad Yuosuf Tarigami who is admitted there for chest pain.

The Chief Minister who was accompanied by Davindar Singh Rana and Nasir Aslam Wani, also enquired the health status of another Legislator, Mushtaq Ahmad Shah who was injured in a scuffle with Assembly Marshals in the Legislative House this morning.

The Chief Minister interacted with them, asked about their health condition and prayed for their early recovery. (KNS)

PDP which has been well received.”

There was ruckus and unruly scenes were witnessed in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly over the proposal for new administrative units in the state. The assembly was adjourned after members of Opposition PDP clashed with marshals on the floor of the House.

Amid slogans, PDP legislators climbed on furniture and stormed into the well of the House. There was noise all around while, some of the PDP MLA’s resisted when Marshals tried to drag them out from the Well. (CNS)

Rashid

Constituency where people are satisfied with the decision of the government,” Lone told Rashid.

Er Rashid shot back and said that that “Congress party is using you as you people are power hungry. You are diverting all the funds allocated for Kashmir to Jammu. You are power mongers and Congress party is exploiting you as a result Kashmiri people are facing discrimination,” Rashid said. The argument between the two legislators continued for several minutes. (CNS)

CM

other leaders from National Conference, Congress and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party visited GMC Jammu to enquire about health of Tarigami and Shah. Those who visited Tarigami in GMC hospital include deputy chief minister Tara Chand, minister for medical education Taj Mohi-u-Din, minister for higher education Mohammad Akbar Lone, minister PHE Sham Lal Sharma minister for tourism G A Mir, minister transport Choudhry Ramzan, minister of state Nazir Gurezi and minister of state Vikar Rasool. According to CPI (M) state unit, Tarigami was admitted in GMC Jammu on complaint of chest pain. He was evaluated by doctor and investigations suggested that there is no heart problem. He is recovering fast and shall be discharged in due course of time, a CPI (M) state unit spokesman said.

Omar

at Jammu and Srinagar have been launched to provide better road communication in the twin cities and give relief to the commuters from frequent traffic jams. He said under the PMGSY over 1150 road projects were launched in the rural areas and 713 have been completed so far.

Omar Abdullah said that the State Government got 650 road schemes costing Rs. 1774 crore aimed at constructing about 3500 kilometres, cleared from the Union Government under Phase VIII and IX under PMGSY. He said a massive roads and bridges construction programme is in full swing in the State adding that the current year will witness completion a lot of more roads and bridge scheme.

The Magloor Bridge inaugurated today by the Chief Minister will benefit villages of Magloor, Torsi, Rehni, Malani, Gurah Panditan, Satt, Bakhta, Forelain, Dhani, Baria and adjacent areas. It will benefit about 25000 people and generate economic activities in these areas.

The area being remote and people largely dependent on agriculture and allied activities were facing difficulties in transporting their produce to markets as also tranship fertilizers, seeds and domestic goods from towns and cities to their areas.

The lack of connectivity was also hindering the development process. The education and medicare sectors were also under pressure. The construction of this bridge has opened a new era of economic welfare and development in the area.

The executing agency of the bridge was J&K Projects Construction Corporation (JKPCC). The JKPCC completed the bridge about one year ahead of the schedule date of completion.

Present on the occasion were Minister for R&B, Abdul Majid Wani, Minister of State for Cooperatives, Dr. Manohar Lal, Minister of State for R&B, Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo, Parliament Member, Ch. Lal Singh, various Sarpanches, Panches, Managing Director, JKPCC, P. R. Bhagat, Chief Engineer R&B, Jammu, Abdul Hamid, various officers and a large number of locals. (KNS)

Shutdown The deputy commissioner Srinagar Farooq Shah told KNS that no untoward incident was reported from any part of the city and there will be no restrictions on public movement on Wednesday. When contacted the Inspector General of Police IGP Kashmir said that the situation remained normal through the Valley and there would be no restrictions imposed on Wednesday. (KNS)

Amnesty said Tanvir. The political secretary said that the human rights record of the state government was good and it was the state organ that has brought many issues to light.

“There has been a lot of perception that has been put togeth-

Zabarwan Times

er around the rights abuses in the state” said Tanvir adding “Omar Abdullah has always maintained if the government of India and Pakistan want to give the people of Jammu & Kashmir one CBM they should give them a Truth and Reconciliation Commission which will look into the entire gamut of developments that have taken place in Jammu and Kashmir on both sides of line of actual control since 1990 including militancy” Tanvir told the team. (KNS)

NC

120 people in 2010 and the Shopian double rape and murder case.”

Mehbooba stated that till the government comes up with the announcement of the new administrative units wherein justice is done to all the regions of the state, PDP will continue to protest. “We want announcement and not the discussion. Now the ball is in the court of the government.”

However senior BJP leader Ashok Khajuria told KNS that they have been protesting against the hardships the people of the state are facing at large. He stated that they have not committed any unlawful act and that to protest against the wrong policies of the present dispensation is the right of every citizen of the state. “This government has failed to deliver on all fronts and it is not we are frustrated but the wrong policies of the present coalition have compelled the common masses to take the front.” (KNS)

Dies

Malik resident of Check-i-Nesu, Badragund in the jurisdiction of Police Station Anantnag. She was shifted to District Hospital Anantnag for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard. (KNS)

Fida

since June 2011 and has passed some land mark judgments regarding some important, serious and sensitive matters.

The Commission, which has recently shifted its headquarters to Old Assembly Complex, Srinagar, was functioning under tremendous pressure/ legal difficulties without Chairman from 24.10.2011 when Justice Bashir-ud-din completed his term of three years as the chairman of the Commission as certain powers/authorities have specifically been vested with the Chairman of the Commission only under the J&K Protection of Human Rights Act, 1997.

With the appointment of Rafiq Fida as Acting Chairman of the Commission, a long pending demand of intellectual fraternity, HumanRights Activists, individuals from journalism and mass media and other stake holders has been fulfilled who had been demanding for immediate posting of the Chairman of the Commission and other Members which are vacant in the Commission. (KNS)

JKPL paid tributes Maqbool Bhat Srinagar, Feb 11 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir people’s League headed by Mukhtar Ahmad Waza today paid glowing tributes to Mohammad Maqbool Bhat on his 30th death anniversary.

In a statement issued to KNS, JKPL said that Shaheed Maqbool Bhat has sacrificed his life for the better future of Kashmir Paying tributes to martyrs of Kashmir including Maqbool Bhat PL said that the sacrifices of our martyrs are priceless assets lying with the Kashmiri people and leadership. “Kashmiri martyrs have centre staged Kashmir issue at global level and have laid down a path for our through which we can strive our birth right.” Party Spokesman, Im-

tiyaz Ahmad Reshi said.

He said that denial of mortal remains of our two great martyrs have exposed India’s cruelty, hence international human rights organizations and international community must play its role so that families van get mortal remains of both the martyrs.

Spokesman condemned the continued detention of party chairman Mukhtar Ahmad Waza and other dozens and said that Indian government and its collaborators have turned Kashmir into complete jail and the movement of Kashmiri has been restricted since from past two days by imposing undeclared curfew in the valley and by arresting over 500 hundred political activists and youths from the valley. (KNS)

Full immunisation of every child the next target for India: PM

New Delhi:After eradication of polio from the country, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday set full immunisation of every child as the next target.

A galaxy of dignitaries, including President Pranab Mukherjee, Congress President Sonia Gandhi, BJP leader Sushma Swaraj, Union Ministers and those from the WHO and UNICEF, came together to celebrate "India's Victory Over Polio" after three years of no polio cases which will result in the country being certified polio-free by the WHO. "This is indeed a historic day," Singh said amid thunderous applause from hundreds of invitees. "We should try and deliver life-saving vaccines to every child.... Even the remotest of corners should achieve full immunisation of all children against preventable diseases," he said in New Delhi on Tuesday.

Gandhi termed India's health eradication drive unmatched by any other health programme and "one of the several successes of the UPA government".

"It is something we can be proud of," she said, noting that the country had almost 50,000 polio cases over 20 years back.

"Let us bring same dedication... to eradicate other diseases, especially those which are a burden on children," she said as she pitched for universal affordable care.

The PM underlined the challenges the country faced in

rooting out polio as until recently it accounted for more than half of polio cases in the world.

"It says something about our strong commitment and determination to eradicate this crippling disease from our midst that within a few years we have managed to reach a stage where we can be certified polio-free, reaching a goal that we had set for ourselves about a decade and a half ago," he said.

UPA was working to accelerate child survival and improve maternal health, he said, adding "it is only by ensuring a healthy and disease-free future for our children that we can reap the true demographic dividend of our country".

President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday got the Rotary's highest award for his leadership in the country's victory over polio.

The award is a recognition for heads of countries or governments who have rendered unique service to the humanity and served the country and its people upholding values reflected in the Rotary's motto 'Service Above Self '.

"Ron Burton conveyed greetings and admiration of Rotarians across the world to Mukherjee for the leadership he has provided and the country's victory over polio," a Rashtrapati Bhavan release said.The President appreciated the work the Rotary movement is doing worldwide and in India, especially its support to the government for the eradication of polio, it said.

DC discusses Wake up Jammu campaign preparations JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11- Deputy Commissioner Jammu Ajeet Kumar Sahu today discussed the preparations for the Wake up Jammu Campaign under SVEEP Programme of Election Commissioner of India with Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and other concerned officers of Jammu district.

The programme is scheduled to start in the mid of February and shall continue for one month.

The aim to organize the campaign is to enroll maximum number of young voters and missing eligible voters especially in 18-19 age group and to motivate the voters to cast their vote.

Threadbare discussion were held

on various issues like conducting of YUVA shows in various colleges, opening of voters facilitation centres at various government and private colleges and also in the office of RTO, JMC and Jammu University.

Deputy Commissioner finalized the dates for conducting YUVA shows in various colleges so that the young voters would be enrolled. He stressed upon the EROs to remain in touch with their concerned BLOs and BLAs so that the campaign would give fruitful results.

Deputy Commissioner asked the EROs to work with utmost zeal and dedication to ensure maximum participation of young voters during

Div Com inaugurates blood donation camp

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Shantmanu who is also Chairman Regional Red Cross Society today inaugurated a blood donation camp organized by Sun Pharma Laboratories Limited in collaboration Regional Red Cross Society and Government Medical College Jammu at Bari-Brahmana here today.

About 50 volunteers of Sun Pharma Laboratories Limited donated blood on the occasion.

Among others, Secretary Regional Red Cross Society, R.C. Puri, HOD, Blood Bank, GMC, Jammu,

Dr. Vijay Sawhney were also present on the occasion..

Divisional Commissioner while speaking on the occasion lauded the gesture of Sun Pharma Laboratories Limited for organizing blood donation camp. Describing blood donation as a noble cause, Shantmanu said that everybody should come forward for this cause to save precious lives. Maintaining that many NGOs and social organizations are doing good work in this field, he emphasized the need to gear up the efforts and motivate more and more people to come forward and support the cause.

Krishi Vasant 2014, webcasted in Doda

DODA, FEBRUARY 11-Department of Agriculture, District Doda today organized a programme to webcast Krishi Vasant, National Agriculture Fair-cum- Exhibition organized at Nagpur ( Maharashtra ) by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperation Government of India from February 9 to 13, 2014.

Additional District Development Commissioner Doda, G.N Balwan who was the chief guest on the occasion inaugurated the webcast live demonstration programme. During the live telecast the participant farmers were apprised about different crops, animals, birds and the intensive discussion/

IAS Officers Wives Association join IRCS JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11-Members of IAS Officers Wives Association today joined Indian Red Cross Society as Life Member in presence of its Chairman, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Shantmanu.

Those who joined the Red Cross Society include President IAS Officers Wives Association, Kaneez Fatima, Secretary, Arunima Sinha, Treasurer, Ridhima Bhagat, Mrs. Veena Koul, Mrs. Rajni Sahu, Mrs. Sushma Chouhan and other members.

Secretary Regional Red Cross Society, R.C. Puri, Director Health Services Jammu, B.S. Pathania, HOD, Blood Bank, GMC, Jammu, Dr. Vijay Sawhney were also present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, President IAS Officers Wives Association said that main aim to join Red Cross Society is to help strengthen the initiatives of the society and to contribute in the betterment of the society .She said that the association is looking forward to promote Red Cross activities in the state by launching membership drives so that more and

more people join this movement to meet challenges during man made or natural disasters besides strengthening Red Cross Society. She also underlined the need to organize health check-up, legal aid, general awareness camps, skits and plays to generate awareness among general public regarding activities of Regional Red Cross Society.

The Red Cross Society was urged to impart First Aid Training to IAS Officers Wives Association and sensitize them about various other activities of the society Divisional Commissioner said that Red Cross Society is working hard to serve the mankind. He stressed for involvement of youth, doctors, NGOs, social and religious organizations to strengthen the society for the benefit of needy people.

Secretary IRCS said that the Red Cross is a global movement and its motive is to uphold the human dignity and save precious lives. He highlighted the schemes and activities of Indian Red Cross Society.

He added that every effort is being made to strengthen the Red Cross Movement.

Physical, financial achievement under NRHM reviewed

UDHAMPUR, FEBRUARY 11:- To review the physical and financial achievements made by Health Department under National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) District Development Commissioner who is also the Chairman District Health Society Mrs. Yasha Mudgal convened a meeting of functionaries of Health Department today.

During the meeting, threadbare discussions were held on various issues which include block wise achievements under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), status of RKS funds, referral transport services under JSSK, quality of diet given to pregnant women under JSSK, physical achievements under National programmes like RNTCP(TB), national Programme for Control of Blindness, NACO ,Maternal

Death, besides various other issues were also discussed in the meeting.

DDC exhorted upon the concerned Officers to make people aware about the objectives of NRHM to reduce Maternal and Infant Mortality Rate in the district and stressed on involving PRI functionaries to aware the masses about various schemes.

She impressed upon the concerned officers to gear up their field functionaries to achieve the set targets under the different components of NRHM.cleardot Among other, Joint Director Planning, Mr. Rakesh Jamwal, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer, Medical Superintendent District Hospital, District Immunization Officer, Block Medical Officers and concerned officers were present in the meeting.

the campaign. He also stressed for covering all colleges including private colleges for ensuring maximum participation.

ACG Shahnaz Choudhary, SDM R. S. Pura Sukhdev Singh, SDM Akhnoor Girish Dayalan, Joint Commissioner JMC Kapil Sharma, Deputy Director Information Jyoti Salathia, AC (UT) Jammu Dr. Piyush Singh, AVP –JK Bank Raman Koushal, BDO Marh Waseem Raja, BDO Bhalwal M. Latifi Tasir, Programme Head Radio Kashmir Ravi Magotra, HDFC Bank Head Abhishek Khajuria, Station Head 92.7 Syed Ali Jafari, other senior officers of concerned departments also attended the meeting.

interaction between farmers and scientists.

Balwan impressed upon the farming community to take benefit of the event to boost the production of agricultural crops and other enterprises by adopting latest and scientific approach in agriculture and other allied sectors to raise their economic condition. He also enjoined upon the farmers to cultivate disease resistant, high breed and better quality of crops to get desired and enhanced economic benefits.

Earlier, Chief Agriculture Officer Doda, H.K Razdan welcomed chief guest and other District officers in the programme.

DDC convenes meet to finalizes rates of nutrition items UDHAMPUR FEBRUARY

11- To finalized the rates of nutrition item rates under ICDS Project, a meeting of purchase committee was held under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Udhampur, Mrs. Yasha Mudgal here today.

Joint director Planning, Mrs. Rakesh Jamwal, Project Officer, ICDS, Mrs. Nirupa Rai and officers of the department attended the meeting.

DDC directed Project Officer, ICDS, Mrs. Nirup Rai to check the specification of the nutrition items. She instructed the officers concerned to ensure that the process is carried out in a time bound manner so that the items are provided to respective ICDS blocks on time DDC directed Project Officer, ICDS, Mrs. Nirup Rai to check the specification of the nutrition items. She instructed the officers concerned to ensure that the process is carried out in a time bound manner so that the items are provided to respective ICDS blocks on time .

ADC Jammu discusses Maha Shivratri arrangements JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11– Additional Deputy Commissioner Jammu Kalyan Singh today discussed the arrangements for the upcoming Maha Shivratri festival and reviewed plans for the smooth conduct of Jhankis.

The meeting was attended by SSP Jammu Atul Goel, SP Security Jammu Ramesh Angral, Joint Commissioner JMC Kapil Sharma, Deputy Director Information Jammu (PR) Jyoti Salathia, DHO Jammu Dr. Sanjay Turki, XEN ED-I A. K. Chhiber, XEN PHE City-I J. K. Sharma, other senior officers and representatives of various religious organizations.

Officers of various departments were directed to ensure all necessary arrangements are put in place, adding that there should be no shortage of essential commodities.

ADC asked Health Department to provide ambulances to accompany the

Jhanki/procession which will pass through different parts of the city.

PDD was directed to ensure un-interrupted power supply during the festival days. JMC was assigned the task of cleanliness and sanitation around the main temples likely to be thronged by the devotees and enroute the procession . Arrangements with regard to traffic, security, barricading were also reviewed.

Representatives of local religious organizations also putforth their various demands. ADC called upon the organisers to ask their volunteers to regulate the entry of devotees in the temples and also keep close watch during the procession.

The meeting was told that the Shiv Sevaks with the active participation of others will organize a procession consisting of 30 Jhankis on February 26.

Krishi Vasant 2014, webcasted in Doda DODA, FEBRUARY 11-Department of Agriculture, District Doda today organized a programme to webcast Krishi Vasant, National Agriculture Fair-cum- Exhibition organized at Nagpur ( Maharashtra ) by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperation Government of India from February 9 to 13, 2014.

Additional District Development Commissioner Doda, G.N Bal-

wan who was the chief guest on the occasion inaugurated the webcast live demonstration programme. During the live telecast the participant farmers were apprised about different crops, animals, birds and the intensive discussion/ interaction between farmers and scientists.

Balwan impressed upon the farming community to take benefit of the event to boost the production of agri-

cultural crops and other enterprises by adopting latest and scientific approach in agriculture and other allied sectors to raise their economic condition. He also enjoined upon the farmers to cultivate disease resistant, high breed and better quality of crops to get desired and enhanced economic benefits.

Earlier, Chief Agriculture Officer Doda, H.K Razdan welcomed chief guest and other District officers in the programme.

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NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY | 12 | 2014

Eminent Experts highlight role of DMAs, NGOs in Disaster Management JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11: A 2-days In the inauguration session, and need to integrate it with local State Level Conference on “Disaster Dr. Muzaffar Ahmed from NDMA institutions including panchayats Preparedness and Mitigation” today highlighted the quantum of losses as well. started at Police Auditorium here, in at national and international level Mrs. Nagma Firdous, Senior which experts from SAARC Disaster and said that in terms of causalities Specialist NDMA New Delhi threw Management Centre, NDMA, UNDP, and damages caused to the proplight on interagency coordination ASDMA Assam, and Universities of erty due to disasters India ranks at and communication in disasters Delhi and Jammu threw light on 5th place with average loss of 2 per and pointed out that there were Disaster Management, Communication and Coordination and Role of NDMA, SDMAs, DMAs and NGOs in Disaster Management.

A large number of participants drawn from different departments across the State and Civil Defence Volunteers are attending the Conference. cent of its GDP. He said that differhabitations which could remain In her welcomed address, the ent states in the country are prone cut off for days together when Additional Director General of Po- to different types of disasters and massive earthquake of 7.6 maglice, Homeguards, Civil Defence & require differently oriented disasnitude hit Jammu and Kashmir in SDRF, Smt. D. R. Doley Barman said ter management skills to save life 2005. She emphasised the need to that aim of the conference was to and property. have Emergency Operation Cenfamiliarize the stake holders about Prof. Santosh Kumar, Director tres established at various levels the role of disaster management SAARC Disaster Management Cenwith the use of modern technolunits in the event of natural and tre, New Delhi shared some case ogy including GIS and GPS. manmade disasters and also to seek studies about handling disasters The forenoon session was opinions from the participants dur- in different geo-climatic settings. chaired by Dr. Ram Lubahaya, reing the deliberations through ques- He also emphasised on capacity ADGP J&K, who also respondLone News Agency Kangan Khantired News Agency Ganderbal tion - answer sessions. building among all stake holders ing to the quires put by the par-

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ticipants. He concluded the session with some suggestions including preparedness at the grass root level and mutual help and self respect in the context of disasters.

During the second session, Mr. G. Padmanabhan from UNDP deliberated upon mainstreaming DDR in

sectoral programmes and said that while planning for developmental progamme utmost care is to be taken to avert risk component afer execution and in utility. Smt. Nandita Hazirika from ASDMA, Assam threw light on the role of Sate and District level management authorities in Disaster prevention, preparedness, response and management. She said that well fabricated management authorities with better human resource could be effective post di-

Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora JAMMU, FEBUARY 11: MinisBhat News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency Kunzar ter of State for Animal and Dar News Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal Sheep Husbandry, PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Reshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Pattan Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi NEW DELHI, FEBRUARY cooperation in the Renewable Abdullah also spoke about Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore 11- The Minister of New and Energy sector and hoped that the energy situation in India today directed the executAltaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund Renewable Energy, Dr. Fa- the signing of the Memoran- and the rapid growth of the ing agency, J&K Horticulture Planning and MarJeelani News Agency Baramulla G.Menergy News sector Agency Sopore rooq Abdullah, today gave the dum would be a just the be- renewable in Inketing (JKHPM) to speed green light to intensifying co-News ginning of Kupwara a symbiotic and dia. He spokeNews of India’s plansHandwara Shah Agency Sultan Agency up the pace of work on operation between India and mutually beneficial wave of to add over 30 GW of renewYounis News Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad the Netherlands on renewable cooperation in the clean en- able energy to its energy mix all on-going construction Reshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agencyworks Tral of Veterinary Hosenergy. The Minister presided ergy sector. The Dutch Am- in the next 5 years. He dwelt pital buildings and comTurray News Agency Tral Badru News Agency Bijbehara over a ceremony where the bassador emphasized that on the success of the wind plete them in a stipulated Rahi News Agency Malik News Agency Dutch Ambassador Alphonsus both theirKulgam countries have programme as well as theArwani time frame.

Stoelinga and the Secretary cost reductions Rah Newssimilar Agencyambitions Byepass and face significant Shaheen News Agency Kargil This direction was given

saster management, while as Mr. Mallick from Jammu University gave an over view on earthquake mitigation in Jammu and Kashmir and said that there was need to take every effort to mitigate the loss of life and property in the event of earthquakes through proper disaster management. Mr.Vikram Mahajan from Sphere India elaborated role of NGOs in disaster management and said that wherever reach of disasters management committees could be difficult, the local NGOs with expertise and resources could be instrumental in disaster management.

The session was concluded with panel discussions and question answers during which the experts responded with satisfactory answers and reciprocated the valuable suggestion put forth by he participants. The participating civil defence volunteers also shared their experiences and difficulties confronted while managing disasters in the field and suggestion for more equipping and resourcefulness.

Gurezi for early completion of India and Netherlands sign Veterinary Hospital buildings MoU, agreed to enhance cooperation in Renewable Energy

of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Dr. Satish Balram Agnihotri, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Under this agreement an Indo Dutch Joint Working Group will be set up and the exchange of technical and institutional knowledge on clean energy will be facilitated.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abdullah welcomed the decision of both the governments to enhance their

similar challenges in realizing clean energy options in the respective countries. He hoped that the MoU would encourage cooperation not only at the official and governmental levels but also between leading Indian and Dutch private companies and research institutions. A number of private companies including DSM, Thermax India and PwC were also present on the occasion.

On this occasion Dr.

Malhotra chairs BAC Meet JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11-A meeting of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Council was held under the chairmanship of Chairman, LC Mr. Amrit Malhotra here today.

Threadbare discussion was held on revised calendar for the sittings of the 110th session of the legislative Council.

As per the revised calendar, Discussion on Motion of Thanks on Governor’s Address shall be taken on February 12, Presentation of Annual Financial Statement of Expenditure for the year 201415, Presentation of Supplementary Statement for the year 201314 on February 13, Discussion of Governor’s Address and reply by the Government on February 17, General Discussion on Budget on February 18 and February 19, General Discussion on Budget and reply thereto on February 20, Government Business on February 21, Appropriate Bills on February 23, Discussion on working of Ministry on February 24, 26 and March 4, Private Members Resolutions on February 25 and March 3, Private Members Bill on March 1, Government Business if any on March 5.

Bakaya lays half yearly Reports of SVO JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11: Mr. Vijay Bakaya on behalf of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, laid on the table of the House half yearly Reports of the State Vigilance Organization (SVO) for the periods 01-01-2011 to 30-06-2011 and 01-07-2011 to 31-12-2011 as provided in section 9-A of the Jammu and Kashmir Prevention of Corruption Act, Samvat 2006.

in solar energy through the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM). He also highlighted India’s conducive and investor friendly policy framework for promoting renewable energy in a big way. Dr. Abdullah suggested that India and Netherlands had great potential for enhancing cooperation in promoting renewable energy and offered to provide all possible assistance for the purpose.

by the Minister while chairing a meeting of officers of various departments including R & B, Animal and Sheep Husbandry and JKHPM, to review the progress and status of various projects under execution.

Threadbare discussion was also held on progress and status of various flagship programmes.

Addressing the meeting, the Minister said that the Gov-

ernment has launched various

flagship

programmes

with

an aim to upgrade the socioeconomic conditions of the people of the State so it is obligatory for the officers responsible to implement the schemes on ground. He stressed them to ensure that benefits of the Centrally Sponsored schemes percolate to the breeders and farmers well in time.

He also called for launching vigorous awareness to educate the farmers and breeders about the latest techniques and the schemes meant for promotion of sheep and cattle rearing besides welfare of farmers.

Among others, Commissioner Secretary, R & B Mrs.Tanveer Jahan, Director Sheep Jammu, Director Sheep Kashmir, Director Animal Husbandry Jammu, Director Animal Husbandry Kashmir and other officers attended the meeting.

Discussion on Motion of thanks on Governor’s address A are among the major achievement of the present government. He said making Panachati Raj more powerful was the dream of late leaders like Sheri- Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and Rajiv Gandhi.

Extending gratitude to the Centre Government, particularly Prime Minister for providing liberal funds to the State, Magray said that train to Kashmir, a dream of the Kashmiri people has been turned true; adding the time will come when the state will be connected with the rest of the country through rail network.

Magray said that upgrading road connectivity, connecting inaccessible villages through road network besides turning Srinagar-Jammu national highway a four lane road are also among the major achievements of the present dispensation. He said tourism sectors also received major impetus during the last five years of coalition Government.

He said the steps taken by the Government for tackling unemployment in the State are showing encouraging results.

He said schemes like SKEWPY, UDAAN, HIMAYAT, and UMEED etc have opened new employment avenues for youth of

22036 benefitted under ISS: Sakina

Minister for Social Welfare, Ms. Sakina Itoo today informed the House that under the Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS) the benefit has been extended to 22036 beneficiaries in Budgam, besides 7000 new cases have also been taken up under the scheme. Similarly, under Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS), Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWAPS), Indira Gandhi National Disable Pension Scheme (IGNDPS), Rehabilitation of militancy hit victims, as many as 11295 persons, 204 persons, 175 persons and 334 persons have been provided the benefits of the schemes respectively.The information was given by the Minister for Social Welfare, Ms. Sakina Itoo while replying to a question by Mr. Ali Mohammad Dar in Legislative Council today.The Minister further informed the House that during the current financial year, 3018 pending cases under ISS have been sanctioned in district Budgam whereas regarding the pending cases under NSAP the matter has been taken up with the Union Ministry of Rural Development.

Secretary LA informed House about assented Bills JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11: The Secretary Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mohammad Ramzan today read out a message regarding assent of Governor on two Bills already passed by both the Houses of Legislature.

He informed that the Bills namely “The Jammu and Kashmir Dehi Adalats Bill, 2013 (L.A Bill No. 16 of 2013) and the Jammu and Kashmir Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2013 (L.A Bill No.17 of 2103) have got assent of Governor of J&K on 24th October, 2013.

the state, which needs to be taken further.Mr Vijay Bakaya while speaking on the motion expressed satisfaction over the achievements of the Government.

However, he identified certain areas like agriculture, horticulture, health, employment and power as requiring further attention and improvement. He suggested that Government should come up with out of the box solutions for absorbing and channelizing youth, particularly matriculates and undergraduates.

Referring to the issue of power supply to migrants of Jaggti town ship, he said once the power supply in the township gets properly regulated and improved, the people would be persuaded to pay the power tariff bills.Mr Narboo Gialchan while speaking on the motion expressed his satisfaction over the performance of the Government during last five years. Terming creation of new administrative units and approving 73rd amendments revolutionary steps.

Ownership of 3.48 lakh kanals vested to occupants under Roshni: Ajaz

An area measuring 3.48 lakh kanals has been approved by the government for vesting of ownership to the occupants by the concerned District Price Fixation Committees under Roshni Scheme in the state and an amount of Rs. 7651 lakh has been deposited by the occupants as reported by the concerned Divisional Commissioner.

The information was given by the Minister of State for Revenue, Mr. Ajaz Ahmad Khan while replying to a question by Mr. Jehangir Hussain Mir in Legislative Council today.

The Minister further informed the House that 75401 applications are pending in the state for giving the rights of land to the occupants under the scheme. He further said that since ‘Grow More Food Scheme’ being a separate programme, the land allotted to farmers under the scheme is not normally being covered under Roshni and there is no proposal to bring such lands within the ambit of Roshni scheme.

Speaker seeks cooperation of all parties to run House smoothly JAMMU, FEBRUARY 11The Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mubarak Gul today made a fervent appeal to the Members of all the political parties to maintain the decorum of the House and extend cooperation to him in running the proceedings of the House smoothly so that important issues of public interest are raised and discussed in the House.

Referring to today’s unhealthy incidents in the House which hampered the normal Business, the Speaker urged upon the Legislators to raise their issues as per the

norms and procedure laid down in Business and Conduct Rules of the House. He

said the Members are at lib-

erty to raise the issues of public importance in a democratic way, adding that hampering the proceedings of the House amount to the wastage of precious time.

Mr. Gul said that All Parties were appealed in the meetings held earlier to extend their cooperation for running the Session smoothly which he had also reiterated today.

The Speaker also expressed concern over the incident in the House in which a Legislator Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Shah and some Watch & Ward officials were injured.

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19

New opportunities, perhaps involving modern technology in some way, might present themselves to you in such a way as to transform your working life, Aries. You could find yourself making a lot of phone calls in this regard, which could keep you busy for much of the day. Your level of excitement is likely to be very high, which makes it important that you remember to take breaks, catch your breath, and definitely get a little exercise.

Taurus April 20-May 20

Changes in your working environment could result in a rise in your income, Taurus. You’ve been working very hard in order to advance yourself in this regard, and you’re likely to continue to do so indefinitely. Your natural communication skills continue to serve you well, and your physical energy is likely to be stronger than it has been for a long time.

The only downside is having very little time to yourself!

Gemini May 21-June 21

Today you’re likely to complete a creative project of some kind that you’ve been working on for some time, Gemini. You might want to consult with friends or colleagues, get their feedback on what you’re doing, and listen to their advice. They may point out both strong and weak points of which you were previously unaware, and this should definitely prove valuable to you. The results you achieve could surprise even you. Go for it!

Cancer June 22-July 22

Some revealing conversations with friends or relatives could bring up old traumatic memories from the past that you may have been repressing. This could shed light on a lot of obstacles you’ve been encountering lately, Cancer, and thus enable you to release these emotions and do away with the obstacles. Once that happens, the sky’s the limit! Your personal power and self-confidence should be stronger than ever.

Leo

July 23-August 22 Today you can expect some noticeable changes in your neighborhood, Leo. Some new neighbors who might become your friends could be moving in. This could alter your life ever so subtly, turning it in a more positive direction. You could click immediately with these new people, realizing that they share a lot of your interests. Don’t overanalyze this situation, but don’t write it off as coincidence either.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Efforts to advance your career that have led to past successes might actually put you in the public eye today. You could find yourself the center of attention, Virgo, perhaps sharing your methods with others or leading a discussion group. An opportunity to write or lecture about your experiences could also be in the offing. Expect compliments from a lot of people, which could boost not only your ego but also your enthusiasm.

Libra

September 23-October 23 An opportunity to travel could come your way today, Libra, perhaps in the company of friends or colleagues. This might involve education in some way. What you learn on this trip is likely to alter your life somehow, as it could open new doors for you. New friends and valuable contacts could also come on the scene. Don’t hesitate; go for it! Another opportunity like this might not come around for a while.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 A number of new people could come your way, Scorpio, perhaps through projects of some kind with which you’re involved. Some of them may appear to be trustworthy and some may not. Today, however, your instincts are highly attuned and you’ll be better than usual at sizing up people you don’t really know. Make the most of this ability, and don’t let logic get in its way. Follow your heart!

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

The opportunity to attend one or more huge social gatherings, such as balls or banquets, might come your way today, Sagittarius.

You might want to attend in the company of a small group of friends.

This could be business related or involve a group with which you’re affiliated. Nonetheless, it shows the promise of developing into an enlightening experience in one way or another. Accept the invitation and start making your plans!

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Expect a strong boost to your ego and self-confidence today, Capricorn. Your physical and mental energies are very high, and you’re apt to feel that you’re capable of moving mountains. Take advantage of this new motivation while you can, since today you could make definite progress on any goal toward which you may be striving. The support and encouragement of friends and colleagues should prove invaluable. Go for the gold!

Aquarius January 20-February 18

Today you should feel more energetic, enthusiastic, and motivated than you have in a long time, Aquarius. You feel very optimistic about your future, thanks to recent successes and support from those closest to you. As a result, your intellectual and creative faculties are more than inspired enough to move forward.

The only downside is that there could be so many ideas coming to you that you might not be able to choose among them.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 An increased level of physical and mental energy could have you feeling especially determined and highly motivated to move ahead with whatever means the most to you at this time, Pisces. Matters involving home and family might need some attention right now, though in a very positive way. You’ll notice that your inner power is much higher than usual today, as if you could move mountains. Go for it!

EDITORIAL/ OPINION

Daily

Zabarwan Times

Srinagar, Wednesday 12 February 2014

Drug Abuse and Kashmiri Society

K

ashmir valley, known as Peer Waer has been an abode of moral values since times immemorial. Almost all the religions flourished here with sincere tolerance and respect for every religion. Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani (RA), Lal Ded and many other Reshis, Sufis and Saints taught human values and religious tolerance. But all these values are now witnessing erosion particularly since when political uncertainty engulfed this valley. The youths being impatient, eager to earn fast buck& make a certain future started adopting shortcut methods & fell prey to materialism as they could not resist temptations. Those who adopted this path landed into a web of drug abuse as they never got satisfied with their achievements. With the time a large section of young generation are in the trap of drugs and other social evils. They are depending on illegal drug or medication which causes a situation where in the body of the addict is always intensely craving for more and more drugs. Initially most of the youngsters take drug for fun sake which later on leads to drug addiction and results into many health problems and other social evils like theft and other crimes for accumulating money for their drug dose. Such drug addicts lose their conscience, self control, willpower, memory and energy. They indulge in anti social activities and in turn are hated and shunned by society. Their lives become miserable. They cannot live gracefully which has a negative impact on the fabric of the society.

Families are split and ultimately they are of no use to family, society or the nation. Drug addiction kills youths morally, socially, psychologically, physically and emotionally. They live alone and die in isolation.

United Nations International Drug Control Programme survey in 2008 revealed that there are nearly seventy thousand drug addicts in the Kashmir valley, four thousand of them women. The survey also indicated that 65 to 70 percent of the students in Kashmir valley were into drugs and 26 percent female students were drug addicts.

Reports further revealed that 70 percent of the addicts fall in the age group of 18 to 35 years, a productive age group. Now in 2012 the number must have increased at an alarming rate which is a very precarious situation. Now the time has come when religious leaders, intellectuals, parents and social activists put their efforts to wage a war against this impending social evil which is putting our society at the brink of extinction.

Protection oF Wetlands

W

etlands are complex ecosystems and encompass a wide range of inland, coastal and marine habitats. They share the characteristics of both wet and dry environments and show immense diversity based on their genesis, geographical location, hydrological regimes and substrate factors.

They include flood plains, swamps, marshes, fishponds, tidal marshes natural and man-made wetlands. Among the most productive life support, wetlands have immense socio-economic and ecological importance for mankind. They are crucial to the survival of natural biodiversity.

They provide suitable habitats for endangered and rare species of birds and animals, endemic plants, insects besides sustaining migratory birds. India has a wealth of wetland ecosystems distributed in different geographical regions.

Most of the wetlands in India are directly or indirectly linked with major river systems such as the Ganges, Cauvery, Krishna, Godavari and Tapti.

India has totally 27, 403 wetlands, of which 23,444 are inland wetlands and 3,959 are coastal wetlands. According to the Directory of Asian Wetlands (1989), wetlands occupy 18.4% of the country area (excluding rivers), of which 70 % are under paddy cultivation. In India, out of an estimated 4.1 mha (excluding irrigated agricultural lands, rivers, and streams) of wetlands, 1.5 mha are natural, while 2.6 mha are manmade.

The coastal wetlands occupy an estimated 6,750 sq km, and are largely dominated by mangrove vegetation.

Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

India is also a signatory to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands and the Convention of Biological Diversity. The Convention on Wetlands, signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, is an intergovernmental treaty which provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. There are presently 158 Contracting Parties to the Convention, with 1758 wetland sites, totaling 161 million hectares, designated for inclusion in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. Ramsar Convention is the only global environment treaty dealing with a particular ecosystem. The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands was developed as a means to call international attention to the rate at which wetland habitats were disappearing, due to lack of understanding of their important functions, values, goods and services.

Governments which have joined the Convention are expressing their willingness to make a commitment for helping to reverse that history of wetland loss and degradation. In addition, many wetlands are international systems lying across the boundaries of two or more countries, or are part of river basins that include more than one country. The health of these and other wetlands is dependent upon the quality and quantity of the transboundary water supply from rivers, streams, lakes, or underground aquifers. This requires framework for international discussion and cooperation toward mutual benefits. The salient features of Ramsar Convention includes recommendations for monitoring of biodiversity and anthropogenic impact; improvement of the legislation for protection of the wetlands; elaboration of economic mechanisms for the biodiversity protection while in nature management; organisation of new protected areas (Ramsar sites) in Kamchatka region; organisation of work with local population and search for sources of funding.

Conservation of Natural Resources

Nature has provided bountiful resources surrounding us for sustenance of a better life. Thus, any part of our natural environment such as land, water, air, minerals, forest, grassland, wildlife, fish or even human population that man can utilize to promote his welfare, may be considered as Natural Resources. These resources, along with human resources and capital, play a crucial role for expansion to national output which ultimately drives towards economic development. Hence for sustainable development, careful use of the exhaustible resources and maintenance of the quality of renewable resources are needed. For that, certain objectives should be followed. Ecological balance has been defined as “a state of dynamic equilibrium within a community of organisms in which genetic, species and ecosystem diversity remain relatively stable, subject to

gradual changes through natural succession.” and “a stable balance in the numbers of each species in an ecosystem.” The most important point being that the natural balance in an ecosystem is maintained. This balance may be disturbed due to the introduction of new species, the sudden death of some species, natural hazards or manmade causes.

Common property resources (CPRs) constitute all such resources which are meant for common use of the villagers. In the pre-British India, a very large part of the country’s natural resources was freely available to the rural population.

These resources were largely under the control of the local communities. Gradually, with the extension of state control over these resources, resulting in decay of the community management system, CPRs available to the villagers declined substantially over the years. Nevertheless, it is widely held that CPRs still play an important role in the life and economy of the rural population. The beginning of the studies of the CPRs in India can be traced back to early 1980’s. Some of these studies covered fairly a large number of villages scattered over the vast area of the country but majority of those was of the nature of case studies. Biodiversity, or biological diversity, is a term coined to describe the immense variety and richness of life on this planet. Biodiversity includes not only the many species that exist, but also the diversity of populations that make up a species, the genetic diversity among individual life forms, and the many different habitats and ecosystems around the globe. “Biodiversity is the variety of the world’s organisms, including their genetic diversity and the assemblage they form.”

Biodiversity” is most commonly used as species diversity and species richness and as the “totality of genes, species, and ecosystems of a region”. Biological variety has been identified as species diversity, ecosystem diversity and genetic diversity.

List of Wetlands In India

The wetlands in India are classified as Himalayan wetlands which includes Ladakh and Zanskar Pangong Tso, Tso Morad, Chantau, Noorichan, Chushul and Hanlay marshes, Kashmir Valley including Dal, Anchar, Wular, Haigam, Malgam, Haukersar and Kranchu lakes, Central Himalayas including Nainital, Bhimtal and Naukuchital and Eastern Himalayas having numerous wetlands in Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Manipur, Beels in the Brahmaputra and Barak valley. Indo-Gangetic wetlands are the largest wetland system in India, extending from the river Indus in the west to Brahmaputra in the east. This includes the wetlands of the Himalayan terai and the Indo-Gangetic plains. Coastal wetlands contains the vast intertidal areas, mangroves and lagoons along the 7500 km long coastline in West Bengal, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra. and Gujarat. Mangrove forests of Sunderbans, West Bengal and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Offshore coral reefs of Gulf of Kutch, Gulf of Mannar, Lakshwadeep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Deccan Wetland includes a few natural wetlands, but innumerable small and large reservoirs and several water storage tanks in almost every village in the region.

National Wetland Policy

National wetland strategy should encompass (i) Conservation and collaborative management, (ii) Prevention of loss and promotion of restoration and (iii) Sustainable management. These include Protection of the existing wetlands. Of the many wetlands in India, only around 68 wetlands are protected. But there are thousands of other wetlands that are biologically and economically important but have no legal status. Planning, Managing and Monitoring of Wetlands comes under the Protected Area Network have management plans but others do not. It is important for various stakeholders along with the local community and the corporate sector to come together for an effective management plan.

Active monitoring of these wetland systems over a period of time is essential. Although several laws protect wetlands there is no special legislation pertaining specially to these ecosystems. Environment Impact Assessment is needed for major development projects and highlighting threats to wetlands need must be included and appropriate measures to be formu-

lated. Coordinated Approach is required because Wetlands are common property with multi-purpose utility; their protection and management also need to be a common responsibility. An appropriate forum for resolving the conflict on wetland issues has to be set up. It is important for all the relevant ministries to allocate sufficient funds towards the conservation of these ecosystems. There is a necessity for research in the formulation of a national strategy to understand the dynamics of these ecosystems. This could be useful for the planners to formulate strategies for the mitigation of pollution. The scientific knowledge will help the planners in understanding the economic values and benefits, which in turn will help in setting priorities and focusing the planning process. Building Awareness is needed.

Awareness among the general public, educational and corporate institutions must be created for achieving any sustainable success in the protection of these wetlands. The policy makers at various levels, along with site managers, need to be educated. The bi-lateral cooperation in the resource management needs to be enhanced if country’s wetlands are shared.

National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP)

The Government opertionalized National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP) in closed collaboration with concerned State Government during the year 1986. Under the programme 115 wetlands have been identified till now by the Ministry of Environment and Forests which requires urgent conservation and management initiatives. The aim of this Scheme is Conservation and wise use of wetlands in the country so as to prevent their further degradation. The scheme was initiated to lay down policy guidelines for conservation and management of wetlands in the country; to undertake intensive conservation measures in priority wetlands; to monitor implementation of the programme and to prepare an inventory of Indian wetlands.

Legislations

Wetlands conservation in India is indirectly influenced by an array of policy and legislative measures. Some of the key legislations are the Indian Fisheries Act, 1857, the Indian Forest Act, 1927, Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Water (Prevention and Control of Pol1ution) Act, 1974, Territorial Water, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and other, Marine Zones Act, 1976, Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1977, Maritime Zone of India.(Regulation and fishing by foreign vessels) Act 1980, Forest (Conservation Act), 1980, Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986, Coastal Zone Regulation Notification, 1991, Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 1991, based on UN Convention on Biological diversity 1992, Biological Diversity Act, 2002 was enacted. National Conservation Strategy and Policy Statement on Environment and Development, 1992, National Policy and Macro level Action Strategy on Biodiversity, 1999 are also formulated by Government.

Wetland Management and Sustainable Development

Wetlands are not delineated under any specific administrative jurisdiction. The primary responsibility for the management of these ecosystems is in the hands of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Although some wetlands are protected after the formulation of the Wildlife Protection Act, effective coordination between the different ministries, energy, industry, fisheries, revenue, agriculture, transport and water resources, is essential for the protection of these ecosystems. Environmental management for sustainable utilization is the prime need of the hour. Industrial development with respect to automobiles, chemicals, fertilizers, insecticides, etc., are coming up very fast in India and due to various reasons these are often held responsible for environmental damage. Lack of environmentally educated society, inefficient management, weak law enforcement, corporate greed to earn more profit with less investment can also lead to chemical accidents and causing imbalance in sustainable development.

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