Zabarwan Times E Paper English 03 July

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July 03 | 2013 | 23 Shaban 1434 AH | PAGeS 12 |

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VOL nO: 3 | ISSUe nO: 159 | 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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Cabinet approves Court for Sopore Srinagar, July 02: The Cabinet which met here Tuesday under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah accorded sanction to the establishment of Court of Additional District and Sessions Judge at Sopore and creation of 14 posts thereof including post of Additional District and Sessions Judge, Jr. Scale Stenographer, Nazir, Reader, Civil Ahlimad, Criminal Ahlimad, Copyist, Jamadar, Process Server-cum-Orderly, Chowkidar and Safaiwala.

The Cabinet also approved upgradation of the post of Joint Development Commissioner (Works) as Development Commissioner. He will have administrative and financial powers of major head of the department. He will be Incharge of Planning, Monitoring, Quality Control and Technical Supervision of various sectors of R&B, PMGSY and other Non-Engineering Departments which have their own technical wings and execute huge civil works. He will coordinate working of Chief Engineering on the analogy of Development Commissioner Power. The Chief Engineer R&B and PMGSY will route their proposals with regard to planning, monitoring and implementation of projects through Development Commissioner Works.

Three injured in Tral explosion Tral, July 02: At least three persons including a child were wounded when a grenade went off at the site of encounter in South Kashmir’s Mandoora village of Tral town.

Reports said that police and Para-military troopers were busy in removing the debris at the encounter site in Mandoora village. Local people were also present there. Suddenly a live grenade went off in which three people including a child was injured.

The injured were immediately rushed to nearby hospital. The injured have been identified as Mohammad Shafi Bhat son of Ghulam Nabi and Khurshid Ahmed Bhat son of Abdul Rehman both residents of Mandoora Tral. The child who received injuries is from Sonawar, Srinagar who was identified as Mohammad Asif son of Shakil Ahmed.

Police soon after the explosion secured the area and did not allow anyone to proceed towards the encounter site.

Pertinently, three militants and a policeman were killed in Mandoora encounter.

Meanwhile, complete shutdown was observed in Tral to mourn the death of three militants.

Shops, Schools and business establishments remained closed while thin vehicular movement was seen plying on the roads.

Official arrested for accepting bribe Srinagar, July 02: A state government official was arrested today after he was caught accepting bribe to clear a tender for some works in the Keran sector of north Kashmir's Kupwara district, a spokesman of the State Vigilance Organisation (SVO) said here.

Head Draftsman in Rural Development Department (RDD), Kupwara, Bashir Ahmad Mir, was caught red-handed while accepting bribe from complainant Ghulam Ahmad Malik of Haiyan village in Trehgam, the spokesman said.

"During the tendering process, works were allotted to the complainant, but was learnt that the head draftsman had not deposited the documents in his office, though being transferred.

"The complainant had approached the head draftsman who demanded Rs one lakh bribe for handing over the relevant papers. An amount of Rs 5,000 was to be paid upfront and the remaining in installments," he said. The official was caught red-handed by SVO officials See Bribe on Pg. 11

MHA: Militants Increase Infiltration Bids

New Delhi, July 02:

Pakistan-based militant groups have intensified their infiltration attempts along the border in Jammu and Kashmir where around 300 terrorists continue to be active, according to the Home Ministry.

In a presentation at the meeting of the Consultative Committee for Home Ministry today, it said efforts from Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied Kashmir based elements to spawn enhanced level of violence in the state by scaling up infiltration and smuggling of arms and ammunition from across the LoC continue.

"In 2012, 264 terrorists attempted infiltration from across the LoC as compared to 247 in 2011. Also, there was a rise in instances of successful infiltration as compared to previous years with 121 terrorists entering Jammu and Kashmir in 2012 as compared to 52 in 2011," the Home Ministry told the Consultative Committee members.

Meanwhile, ministry sources said there have been increased attempts by militant groups based in PoK to send extremists into Jammu and Kashmir in recent weeks.

Though few militants have been successful to sneak into Jammu and Kashmir, most of the infiltration attempts have been foiled by

Ruling National Conference will emerge as a force to reckon with in 2014 as the party will sweep the ensuing Parliament and Assembly polls across the state, the party's provincial president Devender Singh Rana said on Tuesday.

"National Conference will emerge as a force to reckon with in 2014 elections," Rana said during public meetings in Nagrota constituency of Jammu district.

He referred to his recent visit to far-off areas of the Jammu region and said the enthusiasm among people gave him confidence that "National Conference will sweep the ensuing parliamentary and as-

Agencies New Delhi, July 02: India and Pakistan on Tuesday agreed to hold a third round of meetings on outstanding bilateral issues in next two to three months, after a small pause in the wake of the beheading of Indian soldiers by Pakistani Army in January.

This was announced after a meeting between External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid and Pakistan Prime Minister’s Special Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on the sidelines of ASEAN Foreign Minister’s meet in the capital of

Power Brokers Caught In Gambling Srinagar, July 02: security forces deployed along the border, sources said citing intelligence inputs.

They said as of now around 250 to 300 militants are active in the state and are waiting for opportunities to disturb peace in the state.

Besides, there were incidents of violation of ceasefire along

sembly elections across the State".

Hitting out at Bharatiya Janata Party for demanding the abolition of Article 370, Rana said the party will stand like a rock to defend the state's special status and make "destructive, divisive and communal elements lick the dust".

Recalling the state's glorious traditions of amity, peaceful co-existence and tolerance, Rana said the Sher-eKashmir Sheikh, Mohammed Abdullah had strived all his life to nurture this spirit of unity in diversity.

This is the legacy which will be carried forward with same vigour and those coming in its way will find their political space shrinking, he said.

the Line of Control by Pakistani troops ostensibly to facilitate infiltration into Jammu and Kashmir.

Last fortnight, eight Army soldiers were killed and 11 others injured in a gunfight with a group of terrorists in Bemina on the outskirts of Srinagar.

See MHA on Pg. 11

Under massive pressure, the police is being asked not to register a FIR in a case of gambling involving high and mighty.

It has come to fore that scores of gamblers arrested from a Hotel on Lasjan Bypass belong to affluent See Gambling on Pg. 11

Brunei, a first high-level meeting after the new government in Pakistan took over.

Speaking to media after the meeting, Mr. Aziz said “We

have reviewed the various steps in the CBMs (confidence building measures) and in the composite dialogue that has been going on. We discussed ways of

Srinagar, July 02: Germany on Tuesday said it fully recognises the legitimate institutions in Jammu and Kashmir and will not take any position on Kashmir issue that can be seen as interference.

"German position on Kashmir is (has) not changed.

We will not take a position which can be in any way seen as an interference," German Ambassador to India Michael Steiner told reporters here.

He said his visit to the state is an endorsement of legitimacy of the institutions in Jammu and Kashmir.

"We, of course -- and I do this by coming here to Srinagar, recognise fully the legitimate institutions in Kashmir," Steiner said.

He said the focus of German efforts in Jammu and

Kashmir is to help the state prosper.

"We concentrate ourselves on helping Kashmir to prosper and to get into an exchange with us. We are not here in politics on this issue," he added.

Steiner expressed condolences to the families of those killed in firing incidents in Kashmir in the last two days.

"Every life lost is a tragedy for us all. I pay my respects to those who lost their lives on Sunday and Monday in Kashmir and express my heartfelt condolences to their families," he said while addressing students of Kashmir University here.

The Ambassador said the restrictions on travel to Kashmir were eased couple of years ago and it remains the same. "Of course, we tell

our citizens to remain vigilant."

There has been no change in the advisory on travel to Kashmir following the execution of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru earlier this year, Steiner added.

"There has been no change in the travel advisory. At least I would have known, if there had been one," he said.

Germany was the first European country to modify its negative travel advisory on Kashmir in 2011.

"The good news is that we will change the (visa) system. We will outsource huge parts of the system to get visa. This will start in half a year," German Ambassador to India Michael Steiner said here during an interactive session with students of Kashmir University.

fast tracking them, because this is the part both sides want to accelerate, and this (meeting) is in response to that.”

“We have agreed for different groups to meet in the next two to three months.

People-to-people contact, visa relaxation regime has already been agreed. Trade meetings will also take place.

“There are number of steps being taken up and we hope that the two PMs (Prime Ministers) can meet hopefully on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in September, if not See Talks on Pg. 11

Bandipora killings: Eyewitness arrested Bandipora, July 02: In a bid to nail down culprits and speed up the investigation into the case of killing of two youth in Bandipora district, police Tuesday called an important eyewitness for questioning.

Reports said that soon after the driver Manzoor Ahmed Shiekh son of Abdul Rashid Shiekh resident

Germany will not interfere in Kashmir: Envoy

nC to sweep upcoming polls in J&K: Rana Jammu, July 02:

India, Pak agree for talks on bilateral issues

Steiner admitted that the present system of obtaining a German visa was cumbersome for people living in areas where there is no embassy or consulate of the country.

He said the new system will allow the German embassy to reach out to places where it has no presence as of now.

"We will then be present in places where we don't have a general consulate or embassy including Srinagar.

So that should be much easier," he said.

He said changes in the visa regime will need some time to be effected.

"Give us some time because it is a very complicated process. We cannot totally renounce on visa (regime) because, otherwise, the social system in Germany will not (be able to) carry it," he said.

of Markundal, Sumbal revealed before media that he was accompanying the 13 RR contingents when they killed Irfan Ahmed Ganaie in cold blood, police swung into action and called him for questioning at police station Sumbal.

“We have not arrested Manzoor but only called him for questioning. In a sense, you can say that he See Arrested on Pg. 11

PIL for Bar Council elections New Delhi, July 02: A PIL has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking a direction to Jammu and Kashmir and others for holding elections for the Bar Council in the state to remove discrimination against local lawyers.

The Advocates Act, 1961, which has been made applicable to Jammu and Kashmir in 1986, provides for Constitution of the State Bar Council, the petition filed by Bhim Singh, senior advocate and leader of J&K National Panthers Party, said.

"The Bar Council of J&K, though, forms part of the Bar Council of India (BCI), yet there is no elected body of lawyers in the state of J&K," the PIL said, adding since 1986, the state Bar Council has been headed by the Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir with other HC See PIL on Pg. 11

Senior bureaucrat flouts High Court orders

despite ban, construction on the banks of river Sindh continues Mukhtar Shah

Ganderbal, July 02: In what can be termed as clear flouting of the orders of Hon’ble J&K High Court, the senior bureaucrats and politicians are busy in constructing their palatial mansions all along the river Sindh.

The orders of the Hon’ble court clearly specify that no constructions are allowed on the banks of river Sindh to save it from the encroachments and pollution as the majestic river not only is the source for potable water for lacs of people but also irrigates a huge area from Sonamarg till it merges with the river Jhelum. Keeping its importance and utility in view, the Hon’ble J&K High Court twice on 10/6/2011and 3/7/2012 passed orders on a public interest litigations banning all kind of constructions on its banks. However, the bureaucrats who are to implement the or-

ders instead chose to flout these orders in brazen manner and send the signals to others to follow the suit. A senior bureaucrat who was Divisional Commissioner Kashmir is presently constructing a house on the banks of river Sindh at Zurpora, Kullan and duties of carrying the construction work is being looked after by one of his PSOs. Similarly, a minster has constructed a hut at Wussan again making a mockery of the court orders. If this is being done openly in violation of court orders by the senior govt. functionaries, what can be expected of them in honoring other orders safeguarding the Dal and other places of ecological importance? Same thing happened with Dal Lake wherein the rotten system did not allow the court orders to be executed in letter and spirit, consequently resulting into slow and gradual journey towards See Construction on Pg. 11

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11 Wednesday, 03 July 2013 From Front Page........

MHA...........

A Junior Commissioned Officer was killed when Pakistan opened heavy fire with automatic weapons and rockets on Indian posts along the LoC in Poonch sector last month.

Pakistani troops had pounded Indian posts along LoC in the Poonch sector with rockets in May. A Brigadier and two jawans were injured when Pakistani troops opened fire on Indian positions along the LoC in Tutmari Gali sector in Jammu and Kashmir.

On June 26, two militants were killed as Army troops foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Talks..........

earlier. We are providing great political impetus to this dialogue process,” he said.

On his part, Mr. Khurshid said Pakistan has once again extended an invitation to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to visit Pakistan and he has responded to it warmly.

“Most important is that there is political will on both sides that to take these ties forward. This is important for the relationship and for finding resolution to contentious issues which arise from time to time. First of all, there is a need to take people-to-people contacts forward and to strengthen our institutional contacts,” Mr. Khurshid said.

Asserting that the two countries will want to show specific steps moving forward, the External Affairs Minister said, “We are looking for dates for (meetings of the) Joint Working Groups under the Joint Commission in July and August.”

Asked about the 26/11 trial in Pakistan, Mr. Khurshid said, “This is what we have discussed, and as I have told you. It is time now to move forward.”

Good progress in talks with China External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid today met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Brunei's capital to discuss issues of mutual concerns, including contentious border dispute, and asserted that the recent round of talks between their special representatives has made "good progress".

Terming their discussions "very cordial", Wang said, the two countries were "natural strategic partners" and "we should engage in all round cooperation in a wide range of areas.

"We are two big countries and we have the important responsibility. We believe that we shoulder this common responsibility to regional and global peace and stability."

He also said that they have agreed to constantly push forward the relationship between Beijing and New Delhi.

"Premier Li Keqiang just visited India and we look forward to receiving Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to China later this year. We believe that these two visits are like sowing the seeds in spring and reaping the fruits in autumn.

And this is our common goal, which we believe serves the interests of both peoples," he said.

Asserting that Asia's future lies together between India and China, Khurshid said, "We have reviewed the work that has to be done, that has already been done since Premier Li's visit and among the things that we are going to do is several consultations on areas that we are interested in." Noting that the Defence Minister A K Antony will be in China soon, the External Affairs Minister said, "we will take our defence cooperation to a higher level." On whether they discussed border dispute, Wang said,"the 16th round of special representatives consultation was just held in Beijing and as far as I know it was very successful round of discussions and good progress was made." Khurshid also responded, saying,"And I feel I have the same information good progress was made." The 16th round of border talks between the Special Representatives of the two countries-National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon and Yang Jeichi-- were held in Beijing on June 28-29.

Both Khurshid and Wang met on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers meet.

Arrested.........

has been arrested. We have not questioned him so far as we are busy in maintaining law and order in the area. We will question him as he is an important witness,” Sub Divisional Police Officer, Sumbal Irshad Ahmed told CNS. Station House Officer, Sumbal confirmed the arrest of Manzoor said that he is an important witness and his statement could help us in the case. “We have already registered a murdered case against the Army and investigation is going on,” he said.

Pertinently, the truck driver of Markundal Sumbal revealed that he was accompanying the Army when Irfan was killed in the firing.

Gambling...........

families and most of them are associated with either political parties or relatives of politicians.

Sources said Rs 55 Lakh were seized which was put to gamble. It involves close relatives of top Congress, leader and cabinet minister, top carpet dealer from Nishat, and top eight officials of JKCA who have direct say in Ranjhi trophy selection. Station House Officer Nowgam, Mushtaq Ahmed told CNS that he is unable to speak on the issue.

“You please contact SP South if you want complete information,” he said. However, despite repeated attempts, SP South did not pick up the phone. All these gamblers are being referred as prominent citizens and are frequently seen at high profile functions.

PIL..........

judges as members. "This amounts to discrimination with the lawyers' fraternity in the state of J&K and denial of their constitutional rights guaranteed to them by the Advocates Act, 1961 which was extended to the state in 1986," it said.

The elected bar councils have been functioning in every state for half a century and BCI represents the entire advocates fraternity of the country except Jammu and Kashmir, the PIL said. Besides the state government, it has also sought a direction to the Chief Justice of the High Court and the BCI Chairman to frame rules under the Advocates Act and hold election of the state Bar Council as is being done in other states.

Construction...........

extinction of this famous water body. The bureaucrat who is constructing the house has created such a psycho fear in

Daily the lower rung administration that nobody dares to take objection to the construction and even avoid to talk about what is going on. A revenue official on the condition of anonymity admitted that the papers of this plot have been manipulated using the influence and authority though in usual circumstances, it would not have been allowed. The local administration and other concerned agencies viz Sonamarg Development Authority, State Pollution Control Board etc. are tight lipped on not only this construction by this bureaucrat but also illegal encroachments by a minister and some influential persons which continue in Sonmarg and other areas, thus creating a huge threat to the tourist resort and the majestic river. Consequent upon the High Court directions, the District Magistrate Ganderbal issued an order to all concerned agencies asking them to ban any such kind of construction activity on the banks of rive Sindh. The order say, “ Regional Director, State Pollution Control Board, Srinagar/ Executive Engineer, Irrigation & Flood Control Division, Ganderbal/ Tehsildar Kangan / Tehsildar Gandarbal / Tehsildar Lar/ Assistant Director, Fisheries, Ganderbal are directed to stop/dismantle the constructions on the banks of Nallah Sindh, if any undertakes without permission or in violation of law and submit compliance report to this office. They may seek the assistance of Police as and when required to accomplish this task.” One wonders as to how these things are going on without any hinderance in the area adjacent to the constituency of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. If these illegal constructions and encroachments continue unabated as they are presently, the time is not far when the river will be endangered, its very existence will be on the edge and lacs of people will be drinking contaminated water, thus risking their lives. The Hon’ble High Court which has passed the orders of banning the illegal constructions on the banks of river Sindh has suo-motto the authority to take cognizance of such acts which amount to contempt of the Hon’ble High Court whose orders are being violated in a brazen way by public servant who should have been instrumental to implement them in true spirit. The violators should be dealt with the law of the land so that nobody who so ever he is, whatever the position he holds, is allowed to take the law of the land on a ride.

Bribe.........

while accepting the bribe, the spokesman said, adding that the accused was taken into custody for further investigation.

Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2013

Governor reviews first 5 days of Yatra movement

Srinagar, July 02: Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, who is Chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, reviewed all important aspects of the on-going Shri Amarnathji Yatra, which commenced on 28th June 2013, in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan here today. He reviewed the to-date status of the first five days movement of the ongoing Shri Amarnathji Yatra, which is proceeding satisfactorily.

The Governor has been daily monitoring the movement of the Yatra and for this purpose the CCTV Cameras installed at Access Control Gates at Chandanwari and Domel have been directly linked up with the Raj Bhavan via Internet. As soon as the Yatris start arriving at the Access Control Gates at Domel and Chandanwari in the morning around 5. a. m., for their onward journey to the Holy Cave, their movements are monitored live by the CEO and, during the day four hourly reports are sent to the Chairman regarding the Camp-wise position of the number of Yatris arriving there, halting there, moving towards the Shrine and the number of those who have performed

Darshan at the Holy Shrine. The weather status is also reviewed several times a day.

Today morning, the Governor along with CEO and Additional CEO of the Board and other concerned officers, spent considerable time at the NIC to monitor the movement of the Yatra, as live footage from both the Access Control Gates at Chandanwari and Domel was being beamed. During this period, the latest status of the Yatra movement was ascertained from the Camp Directors at the Baltal and Nunwan Base Camps as well as at Chandanwari and Domel and Camps enroute and the Camp Directors were asked to take all the required measures to ensure smooth and convenient movements of Yatris so that they do not face any difficulty whatsoever.

The Governor reiterated directions that all the agencies involved in the overall management and conduct of the pilgrimage must ensure close effective coordination to facilitate the Yatris, particularly in regard to the forward movement of the pilgrims to the Camps and onwards to the Holy Shrine.

5-day Mela at Gulmarg inaugurated Gulmarg, July 02: A 5-day long Exhibition-Cum-Sale Centre Mela was today inaugurated by District Dev. Comr, Baramulla, Ghulam Ahmad Khawaja at Gulmarg here today.

This Mela is organized by Distt. Rural Dev. Agency, Baramulla. As many as 40

Self Help Groups of eight blocks of the district have installed their stall with different kinds of Kashmiri crafts. Besides, Project Officer, Distt Rural Dev. A g e n c y, B a r a m u l l a , officers of line departments and general public were present on the occasion.

Mir inaugurates tourism facilities at Verinag, Dooru Asks people to be stakeholders in tourism trade Srinagar, July 02: Minister for Tourism, Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir today inaugurated five tourism developmental projects besides laying foundations of 8 similar facilities in Dooru and Verinag areas.

At Kulamchinar, the Minister inaugurated Rs. 1.27 crore wayside facilities and a park while at Verinag he dedicated bus stand to the people, completed at a cost of Rs. 1.44 crore.

He also inaugurated light motor vehicle parking and cafeteria costing Rs. 3.52 crore besides a dormitory at Mehmoodgami Park at Mehmoodabad. The Minister also laid foundations of various tourism developmental projects involving total cost of Rs 12 Crore in the area.

These include development and beautification of Lookbawan temple, development and reconstruction of ZiyaratHajidedi Shrine at Kree, walking way at Noodra , construction of 13 kiosks , tourist huts, TRC building and budgeted accommodation at Verinag besides development of Shiv temple at Omah at Verinag.

The Minister after inaugurating several tourism developmental projects addressed a mammoth gathering at Verinag. He reiterated

ZABARWAN TIMES

that all round development of the area is priority of the Government, adding that a number of projects are apace under core sectors to improve and upgrade the basic amenities with focused attention for providing better road connectivity to the Kandi and remote areas of Dooru and Verinag.

Tourism Minister said that the vast tourism potential of the area is being taped and efforts are on to divert high end tourists to the visit of historical Verinag besides vicinity serene, adventure and pilgrim places. He said that Rs 26 crore tourism projects have been taken up during last over four years in the area to upgrade tourist related infrastructure adding that development of pilgrimage sites in the area also received focused attention. Mir said that Verinag and Dooru towns would be developed on tourist lines for which State Government has prioritized a project report of Rs. 5 crore for Centre funding. He said that every potential spot of Verinag, Dooru would be brought on tourism map of the country. The Tourism Minister said that Verinag is gateway of Kashmir tourism and opening of rail tunnel has created numerous avenues of

tourism in the area. He said people now should opt for tourism related trade. Moreover, Government would also provide incentives and soft loans to them in this regard for setting up of their own ventures. He said Government was also considering construct some cafeterias on A n a n t n a g - Ve r i n a g a n d Lowermunda-Verinag routes. He appealed people to come forward and be stakeholders in this lucrative trade which will play vital role in their economic growth. Responding to the demands of the people, the Minister said that being a public representative of the area his priority has always been to give focused attention to all around development of the area. He said though lot has been done in this regard yet there is need to do more on this front. He said efforts are on to upgrade basic facilities especially in Kandi and Hilly areas of the constituency under various State and Central Plans. The Minister called upon people not to heed to false propaganda of vested interests whose sole motive remains to create wedge in development process of the state.

Ensure timely completion of construction of Deva reviews school buildings: EC to education authorities settlement Srinagar, July 02: The Bhat, Mr. Ashok Kumar report about negligence, if work at Committee on Estimates Khajuria and Mr. Ashwani any, to the concerned of Jammu and Kashmir Kumar Sharma gave their quarter. The Committee Pulwama Legislative Assembly valuable suggestions to advocated for constitution

today took serious note of improve the working of of expert committee of slow pace in completing the department. The educationists who will the construction of school Committee suggested for assess the centrally buildings under Sarva constituting Technical sponsored scheme and Shiksa Abyan (SSA) and Education Committee that ensure its implementation Kasturba Ghandhi Balika will look after all on-going and benefits on ground.

Vidhyala (KGBV) schools school buildings and other The Committee directed and directed the concerned developmental works the concerned not to to gear up their field carried by the department involve staff of the schools functionaries and ensure across the state. It also in cooking or construction completion of the targets s u g g e s t e d t h a t t h e works at any cost. It also in full. The Committee, Technical Committee will suggested for creation of which met under the monitor and check the School Development Chairmanship of MLA Dr. quality of works, land Fund. The Panel suggested Mustafa Kamal here availability and feasibility that Chief Secretary, Div. discussed various issues as per specification.

Commissioners, District related to the education The panel suggested that Dev. Commissioners, d e p a r t m e n t , b e s i d e s V i l l a g e E d u c a t i o n HODs of Education reviewing its overall Committee should also D e p a r t m e n t s h o u l d functioning. monitor the construction convene a meeting twice a Legislators, Mr. Nayeem works, infrastructure and year for the betterment and Akhtar, Peerzada Mansoor availability of teaching improvement in education Hussain, Mr. Nizamu-din staff and submit their system.

Pulwama, July 02: to expedite the settlement work, Settlement C o m m i s s i o n e r, M r.

Lateef-u-Zaman Deva to convened a meeting of Revenue Officers here today. Among others, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Pulwama, Mr. Shah Faisal who is also Assistant Settlement Officer, Tehsildars, Naib Te h s i l d a r s , G i r d w a r Qanoon Goes and Patwaris were also present. Speaking on the occasion, Settlement Commissioner exhorted upon the Revenue Officers that settlement work should be completed as per target fixed.

The Governor also reiterated his earlier directions about the effective maintenance of sanitation and cleanliness at all the Camps in the Yatra area and, besides, cleanliness along both the Yatra routes. The CEO informed that a good number of workers are currently engaged for carrying out cleaning on round the clock basis and, besides, all the Camp Directors have been asked to launch special cleanliness drives in their respective Camps and ensure the appropriate disposal of all biodegradable and non-bio-degradable wastes.

The CEO informed the Governor that as of 1st July evening 51291 Yatris had performed Darshan and the officials of the Shrine Board, various State Government Departme nts, Army, Para-military Forces, the State Police and all other concerned agencies have been performing their duties in close coordination, for the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.

He stated that the Yatra has so far been running smoothly, and all essential arrangements have been working well.

Ramzan reviews Legal Meteorology’s functioning, LPG availability Jammu, July 02: Minister for CAPD & Transport, Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan, today reviewed functioning of Legal Metrology department of Jammu province besides taking stock of availability of LPG and price control.

Transport Commissioner, Sanjeev Verma, Director CAPD, G.S. Chib, Joint Controller Legal Metrology, Amar Singh, Deputy Controller Consumer Protection, Manoj Prabhakar, State Level Co-ordinator of Oil companies, Girish Ranjan, other officers of Legal Metrology department & Oil companies were also present in the meeting.

The Joint Controller apprised the Minister that a sum of Rs 88.66 lakh has been realized by the department against target of Rs 90 lakh and Rs 24.29 lakh have been recovered as compounds money from the defaulters in the financial year 2012-13. It was further informed that apart from the work of certification of Weighing & measuring instruments to maintain the traceability, the department is actively enforcing

mandatory declaration on the Pre packed commodities like MRP, PKD, Net We i g h t , A d d r e s s o f manufacturer as well as Consumer helpline number on all the packaged goods so that in case of any grievances the consumer can also approach the manufacturer for redressal of the complaint. The chair was also informed that the department has booked good number of cases on imported confectionery items, Toys, & Chinese shoes, where the MRP is marked less to avoid Tax but consumers are being charged exorbitantly besides looking after the complaints of Consumers under consumer protection Act 1987. The Minister was also informed about the status of construction of 3 working Standard Labs at Transport yard and the availability of Labs at district level. The Minister appreciated the work of the department and hoped that it will further step up its efforts for consumer’s welfare. The Minister also reviewed the availability of LPG at the door steps of consumers besides taking stock of related issues.

Arrangements for ensuing holy month reviewed at Ganderbal Ganderbal, July 02: To ensure availability of essentials in the ensuing holy month of Ramadhan, Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal today convened a meeting of officers to review the arrangements being put in by the concerned departments.

The officers of different essential service departments were directed to ensure availability of essential commodities and services to the general public. The Electric Department was directed to ensure uninterrupted power supply ovoid any unscheduled power cuts. CAPD was

directed to ensure availability of enough commodities like rice, Atta, Sugar, LPG & K-oil. Municipal Committee Ganderbal was directed to maintain cleanliness of whole town area especially outside the Masjid. PHE Department was directed to ensure drinking water availability and keep reserve drinking water tankers.

Market Checking Squads were constituted headed by Tehsildars in their respective jurisdiction the teams shall comprise members from Police, CAPD, Food Safety departments.

Office of the Regional Transport Office Kashmir NOTICE

Whereas a joint application has been received from Shri Sheikh Tariq Ahmad S/o Sheikh Gh. Rasool R/o Chotta Bazar Sgr. (as Transferor) and Shri. Imran Khaid S/o Abdul Ahad Dar R/o Bishembar Nagar Sgr. (as Transferee) for transfer of Taxi Carriage route permit No. 4817-MC Covering vehicle No. JK01L-6620.

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 Bombay Kashmir Tpt. Service namely Mr. Shri. Manjeet Singh.

No: JK RTOK 3070 Sd/- Regional Transport Officer Dated: 28-06-2013 Kashmir

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

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

Srinagar |TueSday

People aware about machinations of divisive forces: Rather

SRINAGAR, JULY 02:-

Saying that the present coalition Government has set into motion a golden era of development, the Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs today said that coming years will be a turnaround in socio-economic transformation of the State.“An unprecedented era of development and peace has dawned in the State during the current dispensation under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah”, Rather said while addressing a public gathering at Tulsibag in Srinagar today. He said every possible resource is being mobilized and pooled to provide basic facilities to the people with focus on equitable opportunities of development and uniform justice to poor and backward areas. He said Government is abreast with the problems of the people and no stone will be left unturned to redress their grievances. Rather said provision of responsive, accountable and transparent Governance is one of

Zabarwan Times is available at the top priorities of the Government adding that landmark laws including RTI, PSGA and Vigilance Commission have been enacted by the present

Government for this purpose. “Enactment of these laws is sequel to Government efforts to provide corruption free governance to the people” Mr

Rather added and asked the people to avail benefits of these laws. He said 69 services have been brought under the ambit of PSGA.Referring

Lone News Agency Kangan Khan News Agency Ganderbal 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 SRINAGAR, JULY 2: Zargar News Agency Kunzar SRINAGAR, JULY 02: Bhat News Agency Magam Minister for Urban DeDar News Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal velopment and Urban Local The Minister for Rural DeReshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Pattan Bodies Nawang Rigzin Jora velopment and Panchayati Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore Tuesday flagged off the first Raj, Ali Mohammad Sagar has batch of 12 Garbage Hopper Altaf Javaid News Agency Qazigund said that the youth of the StateNews Agency Pulwama (GHV) purchased should understand theJeelani true News Agency Baramulla G.M News Agency Sopore Vehicles at a cumulative cost of Rs 48 spirit of Islam and contribute Shah News Agency Kupwara Sultan News Agency Handwara lakh by Srinagar Municipal in propagating its message Younis News Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad Corporation for door to door of gaining quality knowledge garbage collection in Srinagar Three Way News Agency Tral for improving the lot Reshi of hu- News Agency Islamabad city. The GHV were flagged man existence.The Minister Turray News Agency Tral Badru News Agency Bijbehara off from New Secretariat Gate was speaking at a two day NaRahi News Agency Kulgam Malik News Agency Arwani this afternoon. tional Seminar on “Muslim ReRah News Agency Byepass Agency Kargil Speaking on the occasion, sponse to Modern Education: have exceled in their respec- fis whoShaheen throughNews knowledge

Jora flags off fleet of 12GHV to lift door to door garbage

Sagar asks youth to serve humanity

Approaches and Prospects” organized by the department of Islamic Studies, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora. VC IUST, Prof A. R. Trag, Commissioner Secretary Agriculture, Dr. Asgar Samoon and various other academicians and scholars were also present. Sagar said that the State Government has tried to provide every opportunity to Muslim youth to excel in different fields. He said that we have a good lot of bio-technologists, scientists, engineers; CEOs and IT sector professionals who

tive fields and are also practising Muslims.Complementing the University for holding such types of seminars, the Minister said that we have to use various institutions of learning for propagating the message that Islam and other branches of knowledge are two faces of the same coin and balanced approach can help us to develop in every field for the benefit of humanity that Islam lays so much emphasis on.Referring to the advent of Islam in the Valley, the Minister said that it was due to the efforts of Su-

and love were responsible for propagating Islam. He said Islam preaches tolerance and mutual coexistence and gaining knowledge is one of the important parameters of it.

Prof Trag while speaking on the occasion gave a brief overview about the University and the contribution of Muslims in various fields especially education.Dr. Samoon also spoke and gave an account of historic uniqueness of Kashmiri Culture, advent Islam in this part of the world and general overview about Islamic thought.

the Minister said that the Hopper Vehicles with a capacity of 1.8 cubic meters are compatible with the Garbage Compacting Machines (GCM) which can move in narrow lanes and by-lanes in the city and dispense the collected garbage automatically into the GCMs; therefore, reducing the manual intervention and improving effectiveness of work delivery mechanism and efficiency.

Jora said that the service of these hopper vehicles will be utilized initially in 12 wards of the Corporation,

Motorable Road to Marwah this year: Kichloo KISHTWAR, JULY 02: Minister of State for Industries and Commerce and Home, Mr Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo, on his two days visit to far flung area of Warwan in Kishtwar District laid the foundation stone of Inshan-BasminaMotorable road.People of Warwan region gave a warm and enthralling welcome to the Minister. Speaking on the occasion Kichloo announced that the motorable road to Marwah via Margon Top will be completed by October this year and with this the long pending demand of people of this region will be fulfilled.The Minister also inspected the on-going progress of PuranaKadal Bridge on Warwan-Marwah Road at Sarkandoo. While taking stock of the work the Minister instructed the officials present to complete the Bridge in a time bound manner ensuring highest standards of quality and safety. He said that the Government is committed to provide road connectivity to all inaccessible and remote areas as it is the basic requirement for the development of the region. The Minister said that with better road connectivity, other amenities like Health, Education etc can be developed and expanded easily.Kichloo also chaired a high level meeting of District and Sec-

toral Officers at Guzar Inshan and called upon the officers to work hard to uplift the people of this backward region. He told the officers that it is their responsibility to ensure multi-dimensional development in these backward areas as people there had suffered a lot due to backwardness, illit-

eracy, militancy and lack of awareness.He urged the officers that due to short working season and tough topographical conditions, very limited time to complete all the on-going developmental worksis available and hence efficiency and accountability of officers and engineers becomes all the

more significant. The Minister expressed his concern over the non-functioning of some Schools and Health Care Units of Warwan Marwah belt. He passed strict instructions to the concerned ZEO and CMO Kishtwar to look into the matter and take necessary action in this regard.

The Minister also took stock of working of NRHM, IAY and MGNREGA and other schemes and stressed for proper implementation of these schemes. He instructed the Chief Agricultural Officer to frame a comprehensive plan for potato cultivation and poly houses for this remote area.

About Horticultural sector the Minister observed that this region is perfect for Walnut and apricot production therefore the Horticultural Department and Rural Development Department should dovetail their respective schemes and ensure the plantation of best quality fruit trees, soil testing and other research activities for taping this huge potential.The Veterinary Departments were also directed to ensure proper functioning of their centres and provision for artificial insemination for the livestock.

Similarly PHE Department was directed to cover the left over villages through water supply schemes so that people get safe and clean drinking water in the region.

Mir reviews rural electrification under RGGVY in Budgam SRINAGAR, JULY 02: To provide electricity facility to remote and far-flung habitations of Budgam dis-

trict, Minister for Agriculture, Mr Ghulam Hassan Mir today directed the NHPC to connect all these habitations under Rajeev Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) by the end of Sept, 2013.

The direction to this effect was given at a high level meeting, convened to review the progress of implementa-

tion of RGGVY programme in the district which was chaired by the Minister here this afternoon.

Principal SecretaryPDD,

A. K. Mehta, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Khursheed Ahmad Shah, Chief Engineer PDD, Muzaffar Ahmad Mattu , representative of NHPC and other senior officers of the PDD attended the meeting.

The Minister directed the NHPC to speed up installation of the required infrastructure in these rural habitations and

to the un-employment problem, the Minister said all possible means are being explored to create job avenues in both public and private sectors. He said there are about 6. 50 lakh registered educated un-employed youth in the State and government has already fast tracked recruitment process to fill up existing vacancies in different departments. Besides, SKEWPY, Entrepreneurship development and skill upgradation training programmes have been launched to enable youth set up their income generating units for dignified livelihood under selfemployment programme.

Rather said, in view of the primary importance of road connectivity in socio-economic transformation of the society, the Government has under taken a massive programme to construct roads and bridges in nook and corner of the State. “Now each and every village having a population of above 250 souls shall essentially be connected with road network under PMGSY”, Rather added.

install electric transformers as per the load.

The Minister directed the Chief Engineer PDD to improve the supply position of electricity in the district as the percentage of damaged transformers in the district is on the higher side than other districts. He said that local legislators have already released substantial amount under Constituency Development Fund for modernisation of electricity distribution system including upgradation of transmission lines in their respective constituencies.

The Minister was assured that necessary steps are being taken in this direction and the funds allotted by the concerned legislators for the purpose would be spent as per their priorities.

adding that another batch of 22 more hopper vehicles shall be added to the existing fleet of SMC within next two month so that all the 34 administrative wards get similar facility. Approximately 1.87 lakh households of Srinagar City shall be covered under the scheme in phased manner, he announced.

Jora said that all the open garbage sheds in city should be provided with dumper bins by March 2014 and no garbage should be visible on the road sides.

The Minister said that SMC has already taken initiative to encourage the households, restaurant owners, hoteliers, hospitals, nursing homes and other institutions to segregate garbage into bio-degradable and non-biodegradable components for waste segregation as envisaged in Solid Waste Management Rules 2000. He said segregation is also conducted on the road sides by Municipal Safai Karamcharis and the rag pickers of the SMC. Commissioner SMC, Dr. G.

N Qasba said that the SMC is committed for implementation of Solid Waste Management Rules 2000 for effective, scientific and environment friendly disposal of waste in Srinagar City. He said besides this, in order to improve sanitation management of SMC, 2,700 Karamcharis of the Corporation are also engaged to work on Sundays and holidays with incentives of two and half day pay in addition to their salaries as reward for additional work per month.

Dr Qasba said that the process of segregation of BioNon-Degradable Municipal Waste has been started at various levels since December 2012. He said that with regard to the segregation at sources, 15,770 plastic bins with moving lids have been provided to the Ward Officers for distribution amongst various households in Srinagar city falling under the jurisdiction of SMC, adding that the list of beneficiaries’ stands uploaded on SMC websitewww.smcsite. org.news.

Wholesale traders call on CM Demand warehouse facility in Srinagar SRINAGAR, JULY 02 A deputation of Wholesale Traders Association led by its President Nisar Ahmad

in the State.Briefing about the demands, the deputation focused on the necessity of having a warehouse for wholesale traders in Srinagar on the pattern of the one exists in Jammu.Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas and Commissioner Secretary Industries, Shantmanu was present in the meeting among other officers.The Chief Minister directed the Commissioner Secretary Industries to identify suitable sites for de-

Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture, Raman Bhalla inspected the on-going renovation work of SPS Museum, here today and issued instructions to the executing agency to speed up the pace and accomplish the project well within the stipulated time frame. Bhalla laid stress on maintaining the quality of work strictly as per the laid down specifications. He directed the Managing Director, J&K Police Housing Corporation to personally monitor the project on day-to-day basis to ensure its timely completion. He stressed the need for close coordination between agencies for achieving better results.The Minister said that it is endeavor of the Government to preserve State’s rich culture and heritage for the coming generations as well as visitors from different parts

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19 You may be tormented by an important decision today, Aries. The good news is that once you make up your mind, you will feel much better about yourself.

Until then, however, you may vacillate from one side to the other. Asking others for advice may put you in even more of a quandary. The only one who can decide your path is you.

Taurus April 20-May 20

You may be a little hesitant today, Taurus, and not really sure why. Just when you thought you had it all figured out, another aspect comes up with a completely different perspective. It may be hard to choose one path and stick with it. Keep in mind that your unique path may incorporate many different side paths. This is one of your many gifts.

Gemini May 21-June 21

Watch your back today, Gemini. There’s a distinct presence nearby that requires your attention. Luckily, your emotions are a lot more stable than usual, and you’re more strongly connected with your feelings.

In fact, you may be in the clouds. You shouldn’t have any problem navigating through this part of the atmosphere. Others may look to you for advice.

Cancer June 22-July 22

You may look confused today. It may be hard for you to stick with one subject. Your attention may jump from one thing to another. That’s OK. There’s a distinct advantage to seeing all sides of the story. You will have greater perception and awareness of things today. Take this opportunity to put yourself in other people’s shoes so you know how to deal with them in the future.

Leo

July 23-August 22 You may find it difficult to keep things neat and organized today, Leo. It seems like you’re tying to organize a room full of feathers buffeted by gusts of wind. Buy a paperweight. Meanwhile, you might want to give up organizing the feathers and deal with it another time. You may feel too lazy to fight the wind.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Your expansive, outwardly directed plans are moving at full force, but once in a while self-doubt slows things down, Virgo. Today is one of those days in which insecurity may hamper your progress. The secret to success is to consider all the options and trust your instincts. Use your keen powers of observation to collect data and arrange facts in an orderly fashion.

Libra

September 23-October 23 The stars will compel you to clarify your position within the collective, Libra. You have a lot of power when you’re part of a group, but you’re sometimes clumsy about communication. You can’t always succeed. The planets’ positions will have a beneficial impact, and you will tend to put your life under the microscope.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 You’ve always wanted to change the world, and you’d like to share your dreams with your friends, Scorpio. But today you don’t have enough enthusiasm to fulfill these dreams. You will question your personal strategies. You shouldn’t try to convince others all the time. Your friends appreciate you just the way you are.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Kathichu Tuesday called on Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah here and presented him a memorandum of demands pertaining to the development of trade and commerce

velopment of warehouse for the traders of Srinagar to help them flourish the trade activities and help in enhancing job opportunities for youth.

Bhalla inspects SPS Museum SRINAGAR, JULY 02:

03 .7.2013

of the globe, adding that State has rich treasure of heritage which needs to be preserved in a scientific way. He said the new building which will house SPS museum will attract millions of tourists to see the varied culture of Jammu and Kashmir. He said Government has taken several measures to preserve all the ancient historic sites and monuments which are centuries old and highlight the rich civilization.The Minister was apprised that total cost of the new building of SPS Museum was Rs. 66.64 crore and first phase which comprises construction of building has been completed with an expenditure of Rs. 30.74 crore.

The second phase involves interior designing, museum shop, children activity room, conservation lab, introductory gallery etcon modern lines and as per international standards. This will involve

Rs. 35.90 crore and is slated to be completed by mid- 2014.

He was apprised that work is in full swing efforts will be made for its completion in time.The Minister was further informed that at present there are 28 places and structures which have been declared as State heritage sites and Department of Archives has been maintaining them.

These sites include ancient temple and spring at Kothiar Anantnag, HariParbhat Fort, Srinagar, Bahufort in Jammu, Bhimgarh fort in Reasi, Samba fort, Mubarak Mandi heritage complex and Mughal SaraiChingus in Rajouri etc. The work on their proper preservation is in progress, the Minister was told.The Minister also inspected the old museum and evinced keen interest in the ancient and priceless treasure. He called for proper upkeep of each item of great historical significance.

You have the tendency to plan everything, Sagittarius. You need to feel in charge of things. Today you should try to listen to others around you. Let yourself go for a while, even though you aren’t used to it. Furthermore, you need to develop your personality. You can do this by opening up to others.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

You’re attracted to eccentric individuals with very strong personalities. But realize that behind this attraction lies a very strong need for freedom, Capricorn. In your life, freedom is more fantasy than reality. The time has come for you to do some soul searching. Try not to hide from the realities of your life.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

Today will destabilize you, Aquarius. You’re trying to rebuild your life on new foundations. Perhaps should you try to change your point of view. Also, you need to preserve your perception, because it will allow you to adapt to all situations. You need to be fully alert and prepared at all times. Try not to become discouraged.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 You have a tendency to get very involved in your projects, Pisces. Today the stars will compel you to clarify your situation. It’s already clear that you aren’t afraid to work long hours to ensure that your projects end in success. But your entourage will probably have difficulties keeping up with you. You’re too full of energy.

Editorial/Opinion The Daily

Zabarwan Times Wednesday, 03 July 2013

Dialogue must continue

I

ndia and Pakistan on Tuesday agreed to hold a third round of meetings on outstanding bilateral issues in next two to three months, after a small pause in the wake of the beheading of Indian soldiers by Pakistani Army in January. This was announced after a meeting between External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid and Pakistan Prime Minister’s Special Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on the sidelines of ASEAN Foreign Minister’s meet in the capital of Brunei, a first high-level meeting after the new government in Pakistan took over. In another development Home Ministry in a presentation at the meeting of the Consultative Committee said efforts from Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir based elements to spawn enhanced level of violence in the state by scaling up infiltration and smuggling of arms and ammunition from across the LoC continue. India is convinced that Pakistan is not doing enough to curb cross border terrorism nor it has taken more steps to check militants on their side of the border.

Pakistan on the other hand feels that India was blaming Pakistan for recent incidents without any hard evidence to back up their charges. Some even suggest that India was using the recent spurt in violence to back away from talks as it was not keen to discuss Kashmir issue or take steps to resolve it.

The SAARC meeting did provide an opportunity for two Foreign Secretaries to meet, but no substantial issues could be discussed in view of the recent atmosphere.

One can argue that Indian PM had little option in the circumstances but to ask for some positive steps by Pakistan to dismantle the infrastructure of militant organizations and to live up to its pledge that it would not allow the territory of Pakistan to be used for spreading terror in India. But at the same time it has also to be admitted that Pakistan is as much a victim of terrorism as India and both the countries would have to do much more to deal with it. One can also ask is it possible for India to live in an atmosphere of hostility for long as there is no alternative but to talk to resolve all outstanding issues through bilateral talks.

This is not to suggest that India does not have a case to justify seeking more action

by Pakistani. But these actions can come about only if more trust and cooperation is developed between the two countries instead of closing the doors which were being slowly opened up as part of the confidence building measures. There are hawks in both the countries who would suggest that India should follow the example of Israel and go for hot chase of militants across the line of control. In Pakistan also there are many hawks who feel that Pakistan has made several concessions on sensitive Kashmir issue. From Indian side Dr Manmohan Singh while arguing that he did not have a mandate to change the boundaries had offered a series of steps which could make the LC in Kashmir irrelevant. This process will be slow but could help in bringing two counties together. There is need to carry forward the process of talks and more confidence building measures as there is no alternative to it. The two countries standing apart and indulging in a verbal war if not actual fighting which in turn could lead to an arms race will only make this part of the world as volatile as Middle East with no advantage for anyone in the sub-continent.

D

ZABARWAN TIMES 9

Wednesday, 03 July 2013

Demand Reduction-Key to Drug Abuse Control

rug addiction is increasingly becoming an area of concern as traditional moorings, social taboos, self-restraint and control-discipline of the joint family and community are gradually disappearing with urbanization. Alcohol and drug abuse has emerged as a serious socioeconomic problem in India. Located between two of the world’s largest illicit drug producing regions, India has been a transit country for long, making it highly vulnerable to the problem of smuggling of drugs into and out of the country and drug abuse.

Narcotic Drugs include coca leaf, cannabis (hemp), opium, poppy straw and other manufactured goods, whereas Psychotropic substance means any substance, natural or synthetic, or any natural material or any salt or preparation of such substance or material included in the list of psychotropic substances specified in the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.

Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances have several medical and scientific uses. However, they can be and are also abused and trafficked. Natural narcotic drugs of great medical use such as morphine, codeine are produced from opium. Thus, the manufacture of natural narcotic drugs indirectly affects the demand for opium and the area in which farmers should be allowed to cultivate opium. India is one of the few countries that are internationally permitted to grow opium and successive resolutions of the UN Economic and Social Council require India (and other producing countries) to maintain a balance between demand and supply. Thus, on the one hand, India shares with other opium poppy growing countries the responsibility of ensuring that there is adequate supply of opium and opiates in the world and on the other has the responsibility to avoid excessive accumulation of stocks.

Article 47 of our Constitution provides that "……… the State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption except for medicinal purposes of intoxicating drinks and of drugs which are injurious to health." India is a signatory to three United Nations

C

Daily

Conventions, namely: (i) Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961; (ii) Convention on Psychotropic Substances, 1971; and (iii) Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 1988. Thus, India also has an international obligation to curb drug abuse. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 was framed taking into account India’s obligations under the three UN drug Conventions as well as Article 47 of the Constitution. This Act prohibits, except for medical or scientific purposes, the manufacture, production, trade, use, etc. of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Thus the Governments’ policy has been to promote their use for medical and scientific purposes while preventing their diversion from licit sources, and prohibiting illicit traffic and abuse. The NDPS Act is administered by the Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue. However, matters pertaining to Prevention of Alcohol and Substance Abuse are handled by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MSJE).

The Ministry supports various NGOs working in this field. The Ministry of Health, which is responsible for all health issues, runs several drug de-addiction centres in the Government hospitals across the country. The Narcotics Control Bureau, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, coordinates actions by various functionaries (Central and State) under the NDPS Act. The State Governments also have their own Health Departments and Social Welfare Departments each of which has its own set of activities relating to Drug Demand Reduction.

Illegal cultivation of opium poppy (Papaver sominiferum) and cannabis (Cannabis sativa) are offences under the NDPS Act. Synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs are illicitly manufactured in clandestine laboratories (commonly known as clan labs) the world over.

Diversion of licit pharmaceuticals containing narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for abuse has been a significant problem in India.

Preparations containing drugs such as codeine, buprenorphine, diazepam and alprazolam are commonly abused.

Drug abuse is a result of two factors- the availability of drugs and the psychosocial conditions which result in their abuse. Both traditional and semisynthetic and synthetic drugs are abused.

Intravenous drug use and HIV/AIDS driven by such use have added a new dimension to the problem. The United Nations General Assembly, in its 20th Special Session in 1998, has accepted demand reduction as an indispensable pillar of drug control strategies. Hence, equal emphasis is placed on supply and demand reduction. Demand reduction also has two components- treating the drug addicts and educating and enabling the society to prevent addiction and to rehabilitate addicts after they have been treated. Thus, drug abuse is a psychosocio medical problem, which needs both medical intervention and community based interventions. Hence, the central government has a three-pronged strategy for demand reduction consisting of: •Building awareness and educating people about ill effects of drug abuse.

•Dealing with the addicts through programme of motivational counselling, treatment, follow-up and socialreintegration of recovered addicts.

•To impart drug abuse prevention/rehabilitation training to volunteers with a view to build up an educated cadre of service providers.

Of the above, treatment is the component which directly targets drug addiction.

India has a two-pronged strategy towards it- (a) running deaddiction centres in Government hospitals; and (b) supporting NGOs involved in this endeavour. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of the Government of India runs a number of drug-de-addiction centres in various Government hospitals across the country.

The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has been implementing a Scheme for Prohibition and Drug Abuse Prevention since the year 1985-86. The approach of this Scheme is to provide the whole range of services including awareness generation, identification, counselling, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts through voluntary and other organizations. In order to reduce the demand for and consumption of alcohol

and dependence producing substances, the thrust would be on preventive education programmes and Whole Person Recovery of the addicts At present, under this Scheme, the Government supports Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) running Deaddiction-cumRehabilitation Centres, De-addiction Camps, and Counselling and Awareness Centres. The Government bears the major portion of the cost of services provided at these Centres. While the apparent "benefits" of consumption for drug abusers is transient and health and financial burden on society considerable, there are huge profits for suppliers and traffickers of illicit drugs. Producer and trafficking countries, however, tend to pay a high social and political price for short-term economic gains. Although families have a powerful influence on shaping the attitudes, values and behavioral patterns of children and thus preventing substance abuse, peer groups often prove to have an even stronger influence. The negative influence of peers appears to increase when parents abdicate their traditional supervisory roles. Family factors which can lead to or intensify drug abuse include, prolonged or traumatic parental absence, harsh discipline, failure to communicate on an emotional level and parental use of drugs. Lack of household stability triggered by low and irregular income and unemployment may increase the stress on the family and its vulnerability to drug abuse. While the family itself can be the source of drug problems, it can also be a potent force for prevention and treatment. As most families are supported and cared for by women, women play a key role in teaching the young, ensuring health care and maintaining links with and mobilizing community support where necessary.

The recognition and effective utilization of women as resources for drug prevention and treatment can therefore improve efforts to reduce both the supply of and demand for drugs. Indeed, the family unit as a whole has a clear interest in preventing individual family members from falling prey to drug abuse, and thus could become a powerful ally of government and community prevention programmes.

Development of Coal Sector

oal is the mainstay of India’s energy and 55% of primary energy supply and 70% of power generation in the country are coal based. India ranks third in coal production globally after China and USA. The Ministry of Coal is responsible for exploration, production and distribution of coal and lignite to meet the requirements of different consumers and through the public sector undertakings it is discharging its responsibilities. Coal India Ltd. and Neyveli Lignite Corporation Ltd. (NLC) are the two Central PSUs under the administrative control of the Ministry.

Singareni Collieries Company Ltd. (SCCL) is the joint undertaking of Government of Andhra Pradesh and Government of India with equity sharing in the ratio of 51:49 respectively.

The need for systematic and scientific development of coal industry was recognized from the inception of the process of national economic planning in the country. National Coal Development Corporation (NCDC) was set up in 1956 which was the first step towards planned development of the industry. Singareni Collieries co. Ltd. (SCCL) was already a government company in 1956 and Central Government started equity participation in SCCL from 1960 onwards. However, comprehensive development programme could be initiated only after nationalisation of the industry in the early 1970s and formation of Coal India Ltd. (CIL). Soon after nationalisation of coal sector in the early 1970s, Coal India Ltd. (CIL) was formed as a holding company in 1975 with four coal producing companies and one planning and design institute and the level of production was about 73 million tonnes at the time of its formation. Today CIL has seven coal producing companies and one planning and design institute with their operations spread over eight states and has achieved a level of 436 million tonnes in

2011-12.

India’s assessed coal resources currently stand at about 293 billion tonnes of which about 118 billion tonnes or 40% are proved reserves and the remaining 60% are in inferred and indicated categories. Plans have been drawn to enhance the efforts for coal exploration with a view to enhance the reserve base. Coal production enhancement is basically through taking up of new projects under the public sector companies of the Ministry and development of blocks allotted to various companies in public and private sectors. In addition, acquisition of coal properties abroad has also been adopted for securing coal supplies in meeting the demand.

A number of policy initiatives taken by the Government over last three decades has strengthened the coal sector in enhancing production with due regard to safety and environment. Introduction of setting of economic reforms in the early 1990s led to tapering off the budgetary support. After a major capital restructuring of CIL in 1996, the budgetary support to CIL was completely stopped. Coal prices were partially decontrolled in 1996 and administrative pricing mechanism was discontinued on complete decontrol of coal prices with effect from 1, January, 2000 and coal companies were empowered to notify the prices. Subsequently the boards of the performing coal companies were delegated higher financial powers for decision making on their own. A new coal distribution policy was introduced in 2007 and fuel supply agreements have been made mandatory. Coal royalty has been fixed on advalorem basis in place of mixed approach of fixed and advalorem rates. The Government has also encouraged acquisition of coal equity abroad from energy security point of view. Import duty on coal imports has been tapered off and currently there is no import duty on imports. Similarly, import duty on project

imports has also been removed from the current fiscal. A proposal for setting up independent regulatory authority for Coal is under consideration of Government. A Bill to permit private sector in the commercial mining of coal has been awaiting consideration of the Parliament. Coal production has risen from about 78 million tonnes in 1975 to 540 million tonnes in 2011-12, the Terminal year of the XI Plan.

About 100 million tonnes of coal was imported in 2011-12 which forms about 15% of the coal consumption of about 650 million tonnes during 2011-12. The coal production target in the Terminal Year 2016-17 of the XII Plan is set at 795 MT implying a growth of 8% against the actual growth of about 4.6% in the XI Plan.

However, when compared with the projected demand of 980.50 MT in 201617, a gap of 185.5 MT exists between domestic production and the projected demand. This would need to be met through coal imports. There have been constraints in enhancing coal production in terms of environmental issues, land acquisition, R&R, coal evacuation and law & order in some places. However, Ministry of Coal has been taking up the issues with the concerned State and Central authorities on regular basis for amicable solutions.

Over the period of time the rehabilitation package of CIL has evolved and made more liberal than the National R&R Policy.

Coal companies can adopt either CIL’s policy or the concerned State Govt. Policy whichever is liberal. Coal evacuation is one of the critical area in the entire coal supply chain in the country and railways are the major bulk transporter. While efforts to strengthen the existing infrastructure are being made on continuous basis, the most important rail connectivity projects in the potential coalfield areas have been taken up by the Ministry with the Ministry of Railways and the State Governments concerned. These projects will be funded

through the internal resources of CIL. Action plan has been drawn in regard to implementation of these projects and railways, Ministry of Coal and coal companies are regularly monitoring the status of implementation. The pending issues regarding environment and forestry clearances are being regularly addressed in consultation with Ministry of Environment and Forests and the State Governments concerned. All the mitigation measures as approved by Ministry of Environment and Forests while according environmental clearance are being strictly followed by the coal companies while implementing the projects and rigorous monitoring by both coal companies and the State Pollution Control Boards is being done. Mine reclamation and rehabilitation through properly drawn mine closure plans are being addressed both during the mining and at the stage of final closure. The Ministry has issued comprehensive guidelines in regard to preparation of mine closure plans which are now integral part of mining plans. Mine owners are bound through financial commitment by charging specified rate per hectare of land involved and through opening an escrow account with coal controller.

The Government has approved a Master Plan to address the issues of fires, land subsidence and rehabilitation of affected persons in the old mined out areas of Jharia and Raniganj coalfields for implementation in ten year ’s time. Jharia Rehabilitation and development Authority in the State of Jharkhand and Asansol Durgapur Development Authority in the state of West Bengal have been entrusted with the job of implementation of Rehabilitation works particularly for private people and BCCL and ECL will be responsible for rehabilitating their colonies and employees. The Government will provide financial resources for implementing the project.

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

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ZABARWANTIMES ZABARWAN TIMES WEDNESDAY | 03 JULY 2013

Exercise keeps body and mind healthy

Exercise is not just good for physical health, but it can also boost our mental health, say experts.

Now, a new study has explored psychosocial factors that may help to explain connection between physical activity and mental health.Karin Monshouwer of the Trimbos Institute in the Netherlands and colleagues at Trimbos and VU University Medical Center specifically wanted to examine two existing explanations for the link between exercise and mental health.The self-image hypothesis suggests that physical activity has positive effects on body weight and body structure, leading to positive feedback from peers and improved self-image, and ultimately improving mental health.The social interaction hypothesis, on the other hand, holds that it's the social aspects of physical activity - such as social relationships and mutual support among team members that contribute to the positive effects of exercise on mental health.

Monshouwer and her colleagues surveyed over 7000 Dutch students, ages 11 to 16. The adolescents completed validated surveys aimed at assessing their physical

activity, mental health problems, body weight perception, and participation in organized sports.

The researchers also gathered data on the adolescents' age, gender, and socioeconomic status; whether they lived at home with their parents; and whether they lived in an urban area.

The researchers found that adolescents who were physically inactive or who perceived their bodies as either "too fat" or "too thin" were at greater risk for both internalizing problems (e.g., depression, anxiety) and externalizing problems (e.g., aggression, substance abuse). Adolescents who participated in organized sports, on the other hand, were at lower risk for mental health problems.

Confirming both the self-image hypothesis and the social interaction hypothesis, adolescents' body weight perception (i.e., "too heavy," "good," or "too thin") and sports club membership each partially accounted for the relationship between physical activity and mental health, even after taking adolescents' backgrounds into account.These results suggested that certain psychosocial factors - body

4 Foods for a raging libido

If you feel that your relationship is turning from deeply-in-love to boring, it isn't because you want to make it dull.

The reason is that you simply find yourself in no mood for romance.

Grab these foods to spice up your relationship and sex life.

The reasons for a lacking libido can range from too many things on your to-do list and working too many hours to your hormones being out of whack.

This is where food plays a role.

Here are four delicious items you can work into your diet that will increase your libido, and help you work out of your clothes...

1. Watermelon Coined 'the new Viagra', watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid that relaxes blood vessels there-

by increasing your sex drive.

2. Aparagus Asparagus is high in the B vitamin folate that helps increase your production of histamine. Histamine is important for increasing the sex drive in men and women.

3. Avocados Loaded with potassium, avocados boost libido for both sexes.

And they're rich in folic acid that provides energy and stamina - both of which are important once your libido is restored.

4. Chillies If you like it hot and spicy, this one will bring a smile on your face! Chillies contain capsaicin, a chemical which also increases blood flow and triggers the release of mood-enhancing endorphins that naturally pump up your libido.

image and social interaction - may help to explain at least part of the connection between physical activity and mental health. The researchers acknowledge, however, that other factors, such as the physiological effects of exercise, are probably also at work.

"We think that these findings are important for policymakers and anyone who works in healthcare or prevention. Our findings indicate that physical activity may be

one effective tool for the prevention of mental health problems in adolescence," said Monshouwer.

Monshouwer and her colleagues hope that future studies will be able to examine similar questions while following participants over time. Such longitudinal studies could help researchers to understand how physical activity type and context might influence the relationship between exercise and mental health.

Did you know that walking not only helps you to lose weight but also prevent diabetes and breast cancer?

Read on to know the health benefits of walking.

Walking is said to be a great exercise which has proven to be an excellent fat burner.

If you walk at a steady pace for 30 to 45 minutes at least six days a week along with a healthy diet, you will gradually witness a change in your weight.

There are several benefits of walking. Some of them are as follows-

Deep sleep turns on puberty

Slow-wave sleep or 'deep sleep' is intimately involved in the complex control of the onset of puberty, a new study has suggested.

The many changes that occur in boys and girls during puberty are triggered by changes in the brain.

Previous studies have shown that the parts of the brain that control puberty first become active during sleep, but the present

study shows that it is deep sleep, rather than sleep in general, that is associated with this activity.

"If the parts of the brain that activate the reproductive system depend on deep sleep, then we need to be concerned that inadequate or disturbed sleep in children and young adolescents may interfere with normal pubertal maturation," Natalie Shaw, lead

researcher from Harvard, said.

"This is particularly true for children who have been diagnosed with sleep disorders, but may also have more widespread implications as recent studies have found that most adolescents get less sleep than they require," she said.

In the study, researchers examined pulses of luteinizing hormone (LH)

secretion in relation to specific sleep stages in children ages 9-15. LH is essential for reproduction and triggers ovulation in females and stimulates the production of testosterone in males.

They found that the majority of LH pulses that occur after sleep are preceded by deep sleep suggesting that deep sleep is intimately involved in pubertal onset.

Walking regularly at a good speed improves your muscle strength and endurance and also helps build stamina. It is good for your heart. Walking is known to reduce your blood pressure, improve your blood circulation and all round cardio vascular functions.

Walking is said to be good for your bones. It is a great way to strengthen your bones. Walking about 30 minutes a day increases your bone density and slows down bone loss in your legs.

This low-impact exercise

is also said to target your spine, legs and hips. It promotes mental well-being.

Known as a great stressbuster, if you walk outdoors, the combination of fresh air and exercise is an excellent way to boost your morale and mood.

Helps prevent type 2 diabetes. Studies have revealed that walking approximately 150 minutes per week can reduce the risk of diabetes.

Reduces the risk of colon and breast cancer. Last but not the least, walking is said to be safer than running.

Green benefits of fruits and veggies

Fruits and vegetables give you high nutrition and low calories. They have enormous therapeutic value with their rich nutritional composition, high fibre and water content and boost immunity, improve stamina and protect us from several health problems.Research shows diets containing substantial amounts of varied vegetables and fruits reduce chances of cancer by 20 per cent and of stroke and cardio vascular disease by 60 per cent.Helps in weight management Be-

ing low in calories and fat content and high in fibre, micronutrients and antioxidants with a high satiety value, they help in weight management.

They work as fillers and can be treated as free foods with the exception of potatoes, sweet potatoes, jimikand and arbi, which must be used in moderation.

Keeps BP in control Owing to their high potassium and low sodium content, intake of fruits and vegetables is recommended for BP patients.

Top 10 exercises to boost your brain power

You keep your body active by doing regular workouts. Similarly, your mind also requires certain brain fitness workouts that can help your mind process information more quickly. This increases your ability to perform multiple tasks at the same time.

To help you achieve this, you will find simple but effective brain training games and exercises such as solving math problems to achieve greater mind fitness. Include this brain stretching exercise in your daily routine to get boost your brain power.

Here are the top 10 daily brain exercises that can help you stay mentally sharp at any age.

Art projects: Art is a great source of exercise for your brain, as it helps to boost that part of the brain that works without words and can only express itself non-verbally. Art requires you to be creative, use fine motor skills, and think analytically.

Hence, art encourages the brain to think out of the box, and trains your brain to think on different planes. All this while being fun as well.

Expand your vocabulary Learn new words, sign up for newsletters, read articles closely, and list out words that you are not familiar with.

This technique will help you outsmart the conversation with your boss, as well as sharpen your memory, by increasing your vocabulary.

Use your non-dominant hand While doing basic tasks which require no concentration, try using the non-dominant hand; say if you are right-handed, try using your left hand to eat, brush etc.

This activity will require extreme attention, and you will find yourself focusing on completing these simple tasks.

Do your own math For your daily calculation, do not use calculators. Instead, opt for the old fashioned mental math. As we grow older, it gets difficult to do even the normal math in our heads and we opt for calculators.

It's better not to take the help of the calculator, and do math in your head. This is a very common way to

keep your brain active. If you are not good at calculations, then put in som practicez Listen to your favourite song again and again If you like a specific song, keep listening to it over and over again as this will help your brain memorize the lyrics and after some time you will know the lyrics of the entire song.

This activity will help your brain boost its memorizing power.

Multi tasking is good for you Performing activities like working at the computer, putting your little sister to sleep, listening to music, solving math etc - all at the same time, requires a lot of attention.

All these are simple basic activities, which can be done together; but, dis-

tractions can cause confusion. Practise multi tasking simple tasks so that it increases your concentration levels. Study a foreign language The advantage of learning a new language is that it is a great source of exercise for the mind and it's a great way to boost your professional career as well. Further, people who have knowledge of foreign languages are always in great professional demand. Besides, studying something new always keeps your brain busy.

Skip GPS - Opt for maps Thanks to new technology, reaching an unknown destination has become very easy. However, we are becoming too dependent on these technologies as we are losing our mind's power of analysis. We need to stop letting these gadgets do all our tasks for us, and use maps instead.

This utilizes your imagination and analytical skills. Use a brain training video game When you are free or when you have nothing to do, engage in playing video games. Not all video games are brainless. Some video games like Halo, would require lots of reasoning and thinking. Engaging in playing games like this or even solving Sudoku puzzles will help your brain power develop. Avoid using a shopping list Always shopping with a list in hand is a simple job. The real task begins when you memorize all the things in your head and then do the shopping.

NATION

7 SRINAGAR Wednesday, July 03, 2013

SC refuses to change the dates of West Bengal Panchayat polls

New Delhi: In a setback for the Mamata Banerjee government, the Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to interfere with the Panchayat elections dates in the state. The elections are scheduled to be held in five phases from July 11 in the state.

An NGO had moved the Supreme Court seeking a change in West Bengal panchayat poll dates arguing that elections will take place within the month of Ramzan. Members of the Muslim community on Monday took a procession in Kolkata demanding that panchayat election dates be rescheduled so that they do not coincide with the fasting month of Ramzan.

Prominent leader of the community and state president of All India United Democratic Front Siddiquallah Chowdhury told reporters that hundreds of Muslims marched to the State Election Commission office and submitted a memorandum to the officials in the absence of State Election Commissioner Mira Pandey, who has gone to Delhi. The procession, he said, started from Mullick Bazar in the central part of the city.

An NGO had moved courtseek-

ing a change in West Bengal Panchayat Poll dates arguing that elections will take place within the month of Ramzan.

“We are not against the fivephase polling, but we are against voting during Ramzan month. Polls are usually associated with violence and at a time when Muslims will be observing fast such kind of environment would pose problems. We are deeply worried,” he said.

Chowdhury, who is also the state general secretary of the Jami-

at-e-Ulema-Hind, said several organisations under the banner of All India United Democratic Front also marched from the Mullick bazar crossing on the issue. He said that his organisation would also be writing a letter to the Governor and the Chief Minister in this regard.

He claimed that when they had met Pande one and a half months ago, she had assured them of looking into their demand. Chowdhury, however, said Muslims are not giving a vote boycott call.

Sujatha Singh to be next Foreign Secretary; name cleared by PM’s office

New Delhi: Sujatha Singh, currently India’s envoy to Germany, will be the next Foreign Secretary following an approval of her appointment

by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, ending months of speculation on who will head the foreign services.

59-year-old Ms Singh, a 1976 batch IFS officer, was a close contender for the top job along with India’s Ambassador to China, S Jaishankar, who is a batch junior to her. Jaishankar’s name was doing the rounds for the post because of his excellent service record, particularly as envoy to China.

Due to retire in July next year, Ms Singh will now have

a two-year extension and will succeed Ranjan Mathai who is set to retire on July 31.

Ms Singh, the third woman to head the services after Chokila Iyer and Nirupama Rao, is the daughter of TV Rajeshwar, the former Intelligence Bureau Chief known to be close to the top brass of the Congress.

Ms Singh is the wife of for-

mer Secretary (East) Sanjay Singh, who retired in April this year.

There were reports that she, along with other diplomats senior to Jaishankar, were contemplating resigning if he was elevated. Finally, the Prime Minister plumped for seniority.

Her name was cleared after the Prime Minister returned from his Kashmir visit last week. Though Sujatha Singh has not done any diplomatic stint in India’s neighbourhood. Though she was the Under-Secretary looking after Nepal from 1982-1985 before her postings in Europe which include Italy and France.

Complaint against BJP member for uploading Sonia Gandhi’s morphed picture on website

A complaint was filed with the local police against the uploading of an objectionable picture of Congress president Sonia Gandhi by a BJP activist on a social networking website.

A facebook user, Sandeep Bhalla, has allegedly uploaded a morphed picture of Congress party chief on the website with offensive comments.

Sanjay Sehgal, a Congress worker has lodged a complained against the BJP activist with cyber crime police.

BJP state president Kamal Sharma while condemning the act said, “Our party respects women and such acts will not be tolerated. If our party worker is involved than disciplinary action will be taken against him.”

Congress and JMM hold talks on government formation in Jharkhand

He accused the state government of not properly taking up the issue in the Supreme Court.

Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was aware of the problems the community would face and that was why the government was approaching the Supreme Court.

The ruling Trinamool Congress had said it will also move the Supreme Court on Monday for an amending order to defer the elections as the Muslim holy month begins in the second week of July. “We will approach the Supreme Court on Monday seeking an order that the panchayat polls should not be held during Ramadan,” Trinamool Congress leader Sultan Ahmed had said. Ahmed added that the state government will support the move.

The apex court on June 28 had rescheduled the poll dates and directed the SEC to conduct the exercise in five phases starting from July 11. A bench of justices AK Patnaik and Ranjan Gogoi had directed that the election be held on July 11, 15, 19, 22 and 25. The poll was earlier scheduled to be held in three phases from July 2.

RANCHI: With President’s Rule scheduled to end in Jharkhand on July 18, JMM and Congress leaders today held talks on the possibility of formation of a government in the state.

AICC General Secretary Shakeel Ahmed, Congress in-charge of the state B K Hariprasad, JPCC president Sukhdeo Bhagat and CLP leader R P Singh called on JMM supremo Shibu Soren and his son, Hemant.

“They called on Guruji (Shibu Soren) and Hemant Soren to discuss government formation,” JMM General Secretary Suprio Bhattacharya said here.

A Congress leader said Ahmed, Prasad and some other party leaders would leave for Delhi to carry on the dialogue with the JMM there amidst heightened possibility of government formation with the support of RJD and some independent MLAs. “I will tell you tomorrow,” Hemant Soren, a former deputy chief minister, said when asked about the initiatives on govern-

A Trinamool Congress legislator has revolted against the firebrand party supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, accusing the latter of being a dictator.

Talking to Headlines Today on Tuesday, the MLA from Chowringhee constituency - Shikha Mitra - said the Trinamool runs on dictatorship and no one can speak in the party.

9 most explosive Mamata missiles “I am in the party for five years and I knew Mamata raised voice against wrongdoings. But I realised it was not that way. There is difference in what she says and what she does,” Mitra said blasting the chief minister.

“The party runs on dictatorship.

No one can speak... only one lady can

‘It is not actually snooping’: Salman Khurshid on US surveillance

NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid on Tuesday defended the vast US surveillance programme under which India is the fifth most tracked country, saying, “it is not actually snooping”.

“This is not scrutiny and access to actual messages. It is only computer analysis of patterns of calls and emails that are being sent. It is not actually snooping on specifically on content of anybody’s message or conversation”, Khurshid, who is currently in Brunei to attend series of ASEAN meetings, told reporters.

“Some of the information they (the US) got out of their scrutiny, they were able to use it to prevent serious terrorist attacks in several countries,” he said.

The remarks are in contrast with that of the ministry, which had initially termed as “unacceptable” any privacy violation after whistleblower Edward Snowden, a former technical

yond Gaurikind along with PWD gangmen to clear the debris in order to reach the cut off villages.

Chamoli District Magistrate S.A. Murugesan said, “All the pilgrims stranded in Badrinath dham have been evacuated. Now some locals and Nepali labourers remain there who will be evacuated by this evening if the weather permits.”

However, the cremation of bodies lying in Kedarnath could not be done for the fourth day today due to bad weather.

DGP Satyavrat Bansal said a 200-member team of medical experts and police personnel had left for Kedarnath to help in the task of cremation of bodies but bad weather in the area has stalled the work.

Around 65 bodies are lying in the Kedarnath area.On the 17th day of the calamity, the

ment formation.

RJD’s Legislature Party leader Annapurna Devi, said, “We don’t know anything about their initiatives on government formation. Nobody has contacted us.”

“Why didn’t they take this initiative after President’s rule was imposed? Why this delayed?” she asked.

She, however, said, the party would abide by RJD chief Lalu Prasad’s directives.

With 36 MLAs -- JMM (18), Congress (13) and RJD (5) -- Congress and the JMM leaders were banking on the support of some independent MLAs for a simple majority of 42 in the 82-member Assembly.

A couple of independent MLAs had been in the erstwhile BJPJMM coalition government in the state before the JMM withdrew support on January 8 this year, leading to the imposition of central rule on January 18.

There’s difference in what ‘dictator’ Mamata says and what she does, alleges Trinamool MLA

assistant for the CIA, had blown the lid off US’ National Security Agency’s secret spy programme.

As per the leaked documents, India has emerged as the fifth most tracked country by the US intelligence which used a secret data-mining programme to monitor worldwide internet data.

Meanwhile, quoting the latest documents provided by Snowden, The Guardian newspaper reported over the weekend that US intelligence services were also spying on 38 embassies and diplomatic missions of its allies that included India.

number of bodies cremated there so far is still pegged at 36.

Murugesan that supply of relief to affected villages continues to pose a challenge to the administration with a vast network of roads

speak. Leave or be ready to be insulted if you raise voice,” she said.

Attacking her leader further, the MLA said, “There is insensitivity towards the cause of women. There was heckling in assembly so imagine the condition of the state. I too feel afraid.

Then they say it is conspiracy.”

Pulling up the state government, Mitra said, “There are only talks, no work. The administration is busy blaming others. Anti-social elements are on the rise.”“I am unable to work because I speak anti-party... Even my security will go for election purpose,” she said.

The MLA did not rule out quitting the party, saying, “I will change my party or not depends on time... Everything is possible.”

India turns down Snowden asylum request

NEW DELHI — India said Tuesday that it had refused an asylum request from fugitive US intelligence analyst Edward Snowden, joining Poland in publically rebuffing him as he seeks an exit from a Moscow airport.

“Our embassy in Moscow did receive a communication dated 30 June from Mr Edward Snowden. That communication did contain a request for asylum,” foreign ministry spokesman Syed Akbaruddin told AFP. “We have carefully examined the request. Following that examination we have concluded that we see no reason to accede to the request,” he added.

Transparency campaign group Wikileaks said Monday that Snowden had submitted asylum requests to 21 nations including India, Russia, China and Brazil as well as his preferred destinations Ecuador and Iceland.

The Kremlin announced Tuesday that he had abandoned his bid to stay in Russia after learning of demands from President Putin

Evacuation process in Uttarakhand over, bad weather halts cremation of bodies

Rescue operations to evacuate stranded pilgrims on Tuesday came to an end in disaster-hit Uttarakhand with a group of 150 being safely taken out from Badrinath while bad weather hampered the cremation of bodies in Kedarnath area for the fourth day.

Officials said rescue of pilgrims was over in the state and evacuation of locals will be gone gradually with the restoration of the road network.

The administration is now focusing on supplying relief to worst-hit areas as foodgrain shortage was being reported in 170 villages.

ISRO’s prediction on June 16 on Uttarakhand floods | Also read: UN says over 11,000 missing | India Today interactive on Uttarakhand floods: The Tandava With the road network washed away in many areas, a patrol party has been sent be-

DAILY ZABARWAN TIMES

and bridges still damaged in the area.

The bridge over Alaknanda at Lambagar is badly damaged which will take at least 2-3 months to be repaired, he said, adding that the BRO is working on it.

Officials saidw taking relief material to remote villages due to poor connectivity is a major problem.

Though choppers are being used for the purpose the exercise is confined to just a few areas, they said.

With Gaurikund-Kedar Highway still closed, there is foodgrain shortage in at least 170 villages in Kedarghati area in Rudraprayag district, officials said.

But relief material has been dispatched to Kalimath, Chandrapuri and Sauri areas in the district.

that he stop leaking intelligence reports.

Snowden, whose passport has been revoked by the US, has been holed up and in legal limbo in Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport for more than a week trying to find a safe haven.

Elsewhere in Asia, a spokeswoman for China’s foreign ministry Hua Chunying said Beijing had been “following the developments” but declined to comment further.

“I’ve seen some reports of his petition for political asylum in some countries but I have no information about that,” Hua said.

The US wants Snowden, who has leaked information about the

National Security Agency’s vast Internet and phone surveillance programmes, extradited so he can be put on trial.

India, which has moved closer to the United States since signing a landmark nuclear power pact in 2008, has also defended Washington’s surveillance programmes.

“Some of the information they got out of their scrutiny, they were able to use it to prevent serious terrorist attacks in several countries,” Foreign Minister Salman Khurshid told reporters in Brunei in a broadcast interview.

“This is not scrutiny and access to actual messages. It is only computer analysis of patterns of calls and emails that are being sent... it is not actually snooping on the content of anyone’s messages or conversations,” he added.

Norway, Austria and Poland were among the first to confirm they had received asylum requests from Snowden. Warsaw immediately rejected the request.

CBSE official heading AIEEE exam accused of leaking paper, corruption

A Central Board of School Education (CBSE) official who was overseeing AIEEE till last year has been accused of revealing the questions paper via text messages. The CBSE official has also been accused of allowing an online AIEEE test centre in Kota, Rajasthan.The All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE) has now been replaced with the Joint Entrance Examination (Main) from this year.

The government has asked the

CBI to investigate into the case of disproportionate assets against the official, who is accused of amassing huge wealth.The Central Vigilance Commission had received an anonymous complaint against Pitam Singh, CBSE director of special examination, CBSE.The human resource development ministry had conducted an inquiry into the case earlier.

The anonymous complaint also said that Singh’s wife who was running a chain of Mothers Pride schools in the capital had shown inflated number of students in her school to explain the disproportionate assets of the family.

Singh had denied the allegation saying it was part of professional jealousy and he was being framed in the case.

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