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C M Y K
THURSDAY
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October 03 | 2013 | 26 Zeeqad 1434 AH | PAGES 12 |
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Abdur Razzak recalled to Test squad
On six-day visit to Belgium, Turkey 7
Srinagar, October 02: A 23 years old, Assan Ahmad Dar son of Abdul Rashid resident of Udhiyan Seel Doda was drowned in nallah Lidder near Anchidoora, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Anantnag. The body of deceased was fished out and handed over to his relatives for last rites.
1 dies, 9 injured in road mishaps Srinagar, October 02: One person died and nine others were injured in different road accidents across the valley. A Scooter bearing chasis number 007298153 collided with a Horse Cart at Dolipora crossing, Baramulla resulting in on spot death of scooterist Bilal Ahmad Dar son of Abdul Samad resident of Dolipora, Baramulla. Meanwhile, a Motorcycle bearing registration number JK13/4974 hit and injured a pedestrian Reshma wife of Mongyat at present Noorpora, Awantipora at Larnoo. The injured has been shifted to hospital for treatment. In another accident, See Mishaps on Pg. 11
No village or post occupied by Pak
Operation against infiltrators on: GoC 15 Corps Srinagar, October 02: The General Officer Commanding 15 Corps Lt. General Gurmeet Singh on Tuesday said that no village in Keran Sector is under occupation of Pakistan Army. Refuting the news carried by some private channels that a village in Keran has been occupied by Pakistan army. He said that all the reports misconceived, fabricated and baseless. He said that an operation against infiltrators is goings on in the area for last over one week in which atleast 10-12 militants have been killed. “I can’t share any kind of information about the operation as it could have bearing on my soldiers. Let the operation be over and I will share
everything with you,” Singh told reporters in Srinagar adding that it is absurd to claim that Pakistani troops had occupied an uninhabited village along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir last Monday.
Lieutenant general Gurmeet Singh said that Indian soldiers handling the operation are making the movement of intruders difficult and soon they will be eliminated. “There is no time limit as we are not in hurry. Hurry
Addresses Maha Gram Sabha 10
8
Keran Infiltration
Youth drowns in Anantnag
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
means causality to our soldiers. We are dealing with intruders in a planned manner and it is the question of time now,” he said. He said that the Army had inputs that some 30 to 40 militants are present in Keran sector and, “we cordoned them. There was an exchange of fire and the operation is in progress,” he said. Coming down heavily on inimical forces Singh said that there are certain elements who are propagating that militants have occupied a village. “It is a difficult terrain and no village is found in the area. It is absurd to claim that militants have occupied any of our post or village,” he said. While replying to a See No Village on Pg. 11
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Crackdown returns in Kulgam Kulgam, October 02: In a throwback to ’90s, Army, SOG and paramilitary CRPF on Wednesday cracked down on hamlets of Gofebal and Gretebal in South Kashmir’s Kulgam town and forced people to come out from their bed and assemble in a nearby ground. Locals told CNS that around 4 am large See Crackdown on Pg. 11
Union Cabinet withdraws ordinance on lawmakers New Delhi, October 02: The Union Cabinet on Wednesday unanimously decided to drop a controversial ordinance and bill aimed at protecting convicted lawmakers, days after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi publicly denounced the move. Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari made the announcement after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who returned late
Tuesday after attending the U.N. General Assembly, presided over a 20-minute Cabinet meeting. “The decision of the Cabinet was unanimous,” Mr. Tewari told the media. The ordinance, now with President Pranab Mukherjee, sought to overrule a Supreme Court ruling which wanted convicted MPs and State legislators disqualified from their respective legislatures. “In so far as the bill is con-
Employees candle light march foiled, many detained Shun agitation, we are open for talks: Govt Srinagar, October 02: Police today foiled the candle light march procession that was scheduled to be taken out by Government employees from Poloview to Chief Minister’s residence to protest against the delay in ‘fulfillment’
of their demands which mainly include the removal of Pay anomalies and enhancement in the retirement age from 58 to 60 years. Meanwhile, the government today said that the employees should shun confrontational attitude
and join talks. Talking to KNS, minister for medical education Taj Mohi-u-Din, who is also the member of cabinet sub-committee dealing with employee demands, said that government should not be compelled for any harsh steps. See Employees on Pg. 11
cerned, it is the property of parliament,” Mr. Tewari said. He added that at an appropriate time, it would be taken back. The Minister hastened to add that Wednesday’s move should not be seen as undermining the authority of the Prime Minister, who was party to the earlier decision to go for the ordinance. “Democracy is not a monolithic authoritarian system of government,” See Union Cabinet on Pg. 11
Officer slips to death Srinagar, October 02: A KAS officer, Ajesh Kumar resident of Kishtwar who was posted as Registrar Co-operatives slipped and fell from the upper storey of Hotel Heemal at Dalgate, Srinagar where he was staying. He was seriously injured in the fall and was shifted to SKIMS, Srinagar where he See Officer on Pg. 11
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11 From Front Page........
Daily
Thursday, 03 October 2013
No Village...........
question, Singh denied that they are seeking the help of Indian Air Force. “It is absurd. We have not sought the help of Indian Air Force. Have faith in us and we will eliminate all these militants,” he said. Lieutenant general Gurmeet Singh said that effective cordon is on and it is the last phase of operation. “Dead bodies of militants are of no consequences for me. What is important is that area is cleared. We have recovered large quantity of arms and ammunition. Some the weapons are made in Pakistan,” he said. Gurmeet Singh refuses to divulge the information about the ongoing operation saying that it would have bearing on his soldiers. Pertinently, some media reports suggested that for the first time since Pakistani regulars and militants occupied several abandoned posts in Kargil in 1999, leading to a low-intensity conflict that eventually saw the intruders evicted, Pakistani soldiers on September 23 occupied Shala Bhata village in Keran sector during a routine rotation of troops on the Indian side.
Crackdown...........
contingent of Special Operation Group, 9 RR and 18 Battalion CRPF arrived in the Gofebal and Gretebal hamlets of Kulgam and sealed Kulgam-Islamabad road. “It was exactly 4 am when I heard an announcement asking people to come out from their houses as the government Forces has cordoned off the area. When I came out, I saw Army, SOG and CRPF personnel present outside who were directing people to reach quickly in the nearby ground,” one of the residents of Gofebal told CNS. Whole population of these two hamlets were gathered in a ground and their identity cards were thoroughly checked. Forces launched massive searches and entered each and every house of these two villages. During the crackdown, the women flock stayed together while the troopers searched the house thoroughly. When contacted Defence spokesperson told CNS that he does not know anything about the operation. Sources said that these hamlets were cracked down after the Army received information about the presence of militants there. The crackdown continued till afternoon after that transport was allowed to ply on Kulgam-Islamabad road.
Union Cabinet...........
he said. “We respect the diversity of views, and there was a view which was articulated by Rahul Gandhi.” Mr. Tewari said Mr. Gandhi’s outburst against the ordinance Friday- he had dubbed it “complete nonsense” -was possibly based on a “wider feedback which he had got”. “Under those circumstances, the cabinet decision was reconsidered and it was decided that we would withdraw both the bill and the ordinance. “There is absolutely no question of undermining the authority of the Prime Minister in a Cabinet system of government. “On the contrary, it demonstrates that you have a government which is not authoritarian in nature. “If you look at it with a liberal perspective, it only goes to
underscore the sensitivity we attach to (other) views.”
Employees.........
“The Government can go to any extent if it is really keen to crush the agitation. But this government never wants any confrontation with its own employees. We want all the issues to be sorted out through talks. We had sought time from the employees union for only one issue that is the enhancement in retirement age but the employees have resorted to illegal means, portraying government’s flexible attitude in a bad manner. This is unacceptable to the government.” Taj appealed the employees that to shun confrontation and resume talks. “I appeal them not to close the option of dialogue and compel the government to avail all options available to it. The Chief Secretary has asked all the district administrations to take necessary action against employees who don’t join their duties in protest. If the JCC really want to reach any conclusion then it should join talks with the government immediately.” According to reports by KNS correspondent, several employee leaders were arrested by the police near Poloview when they were trying to lead the candle march to Chief Minister’s residence in the late evening. Huge deployment of police was made near Poloview so that the protest march could be foiled. The employees were baton charged by the police when they started taking out the procession. Joint Consultative committee (JCC) spokesman while talking to KNS said that several leaders including Abdul Qayoom wani, Nusrat Beigh, Basharat Ahmad, Mohammad Shafi Ganae, Nasir Ali and shabir ahmad including other were arrested by the police and were detained in Police station Kothi Bagh. The sources have revealed that the detained JCC leaders will be shifted to Central Jail Srinagar. The JCC spokesman has further stated that the scheduled protest programme has not been cancelled and the employees are informed to assemble near the Civil Secretariat Srinagar to make the ‘Secretariat gherao’ a success. JCC leadership had earlier called for the five-days protest programme from October 1 to October 5, 2013 after the talks with the Government failed to reach any conclusion.
Officer..........
succumbed to his injuries. Police has initiated inquest proceedings under section 174 CrPC in this regard.
Mishaps.........
a Tipper bearing registration number JK01P/1832 hit a Tata Sumo bearing registration number JK019/6490 at Hanjipora, Trehgam, resulting in injuries to five passengers. All the injured were shifted to Hospital for treatment. In another accident, a tipper bearing registration number JK13A/8033 collided with a motorcycle bearing registration number JK13C/2149 on National Highway near Charsoo, Awantipora, resulting in injuries to three persons riding on the motorcycle.
Lalu to request for a lenient sentence citing health, stature Ranchi, October 02: The CBI court in Chitranjan Sinha said, “The court will prosecutor for the CBI BMP Singh Ranchi will announce the quantum of hear arguments on fixing the quantum said, “All convicts take such stand. We sentence to 34 of those convicted, of sentence on October 3. The said will request the court to award including RJD chief Lalu Prasad, in procedure will be taken up in the maximum punishment to the convicts the multi-crore fodder scam case morning. The court will communicate as the charges have been proved through videoconferencing on the sentences to Lalu and others beyond an iota of doubt”. Thursday. Lalu’s counsel said they through videoconferencing post Former Bihar chief minister will pray for a lenient sentence for the lunch.” Sinha said that senior Jagannath Mishra, also convicted in RJD chief citing his stature as a former advocate Surender Singh from the case, is undergoing treatment at Union minister and health. Jabalpur high court will argue on Ranchi’s Rajendra Prasad Institute of On Monday, the court of special judge Lalu’s behalf. “We will urge the court Medical Sciences (RIMS). He will PK Singh had held Lalu and 44 others to award a lesser sentence to Lalu either be shifted to jail or produced guilty of fraudulently withdrawing keeping in view that there was no before the court on Thursday as there `37.70 crore from Chaibasa treasury direct evidence against him. Also, he is no videoconferencing facility in the between 1994 and 1995. Lalu also was Union railway minister and is also hospital. “The court may defer the f a c e s d i s q u a l i f i c a t i o n f r o m suffering from several ailments date of pronouncement of sentences Parliament post his sentence. including diabetes and hypertension,” with respect to Mishra,” said senior Lalu’s counsel, senior advocate Sinha said. However, special public advocate of high court BM Tripathy.
Doctors of SKIMS observe State gets addl 11.62 Cr as two hour strike Incentive for Reduction in Srinagar, October 02: A two large number of patients are Infant Mortality Rate hour strike was observed by visiting everyday. senior doctors, junior doctors and post graduate students working in state's premier tertiary care institute - Sher-iKashmir institute of Medical sciences against the order issued by SKIMS administration by which the residents of SKIMS have been asked to discharge their duties form 9am to 6 pm. A good number of resident doctors assembled outside Director's office in the morning protesting against this order. All the resident doctors did not attend their duties from 10am to 11:30 am thereby causing inconvenience to the patients, however the doctors working in emergency areas did not participate in the strike. The resident doctors were demanding revocation of the order. Resident Doctors Association (RDA) of SKIMS told our correspondent that it is injustice with the doctors working in the Institute. This is a tertiary care hospital of the valley where
Hospital Staff is already overburden with huge rush of patients and this increase in the working hours will effect the routine work of this premier hospital. The president of RDA of SKIMS told Zabarwan Times that due to the emergent nature of SKIMS, it is not good to go on strike but the administration forces us to do so."Now RDA has decided to give some time to the administration to resolve this issue." said a doctor to our correspondent." Because suddenly going on strike will effect patient care." The president of RDA said that they have decided to give 3 days (72 hours) to the SKIMS administration to solve their demand. If after this stipulated time the administration fails to solve the issue, all the residents working in SKIMS will be forced to go on strike and the responsibility will wholly and solly lie on SKIMS administration.
Srinagar, September 02: On the recommendations of the Thirteenth Finance Commission, the Jammu & Kashmir State has been awarded with of Rs 11.86 crore during the current financial year for making strenuous efforts in reduction of Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) between the years 2009 and 2012.This was disclosed by Minister of State for Health during the meeting with the Officers of J&K National Rural Health Mission held here today. Mission Director NRHM briefed the Minister about physical and financial achievements registered under NRHM for upgradation and improvement of healthcare facilities in the State. The Minister said with a further decline in the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) by two points this year in the State, the Health Department has marked a
significant achievement, which reveals the better execution of various schemes related to Child Health under National Rural Health Mission. He said that as per the latest reports of Sample Registration System (SRS) Bulletin-September 2013, IMR of the State has been reduced to 39, which was 41in the year 2011. The IMR of the State has come down by 13 points from 52 in 2006 to 39 in 2013 and is also better than the National average of 42. The minister said that last year an amount of Rs 15.36 Crore were released by the 13th Finance Commission to the State and the various activities were undertaken for Strengthening of Maternal & Child Health care services through Facility Based & Home Based New-born Care & strengthening of Labour Rooms & Ots.
ZABARWAN TIMES
Build capacities to meet future challenges: Governor to Universities Srinagar, October 02: Prof. he and Prof. Mehta worked together in Goverdhan Mehta, National Research the Round Table which had been set up Professor and Bhartia-Jubilant Chair by the Government of India for at the University of Hyderabad, was fostering understandings and conferred with the Degree of Doctor collaborations between India and the of Science (Honoris Causa) by the countries of the European Union. Kashmir University at its Special Highlighting the role of Universities Convocation held here this evening. and other institutions of higher Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, who is education, the Governor observed that Chancellor of the Kashmir University, they are required not only to undertake presented a Certificate and Citation and high standards of teaching and conferred the Degree of Doctor of research but also induce among the Science (Honoris Causa) upon Prof. students the spirit of free and critical Mehta, an internationally acclaimed enquiry and examination of various researcher in Organic Chemistry, in complex issues. He stated that the recognition of his noteworthy contribu- youth must be intellectually equipped tions in the field of Chemistry. to understand and appreciate diversity, The Governor, who was the Chief and possess the confidence to resolve Guest at the Special Convocation, in his all differences of opinion through Address congratulated Prof. Mehta and dialogue and debate. The institutions thanked him for having agreed to accept of higher learning and the students the Degree of Doctor of Science must develop the capacity to address (Honoris Causa) from the Kashmir all contemporary social, economic University, in recognition of his and political problems to the benefit of contribution to the realm of science. the society at large. Describing He dwelt on the contribution of Prof. Special Convocation as a very special Mehta as a planner in the arenas of occasion for the University, the science and technology within the Governor observed that it is a great country and abroad. He recalled that moment for the varsity today having
honoured an outstanding scientist. He referred to the good work being done by the Kashmir University in teaching and research and hoped that in the coming times Prof. Mehta would help the varsity in guiding academic and research work which is being undertaken here. Prof. Goverdhan Mehta thanked the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor and the Kashmir University for conferring upon him the Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa). He said that by making him alumni of the Kashmir University it is his duty to promote the cause of the varsity. He dwelt on the strides made by the Kashmir University in teaching and research, adding that the products of this institution are highly talented, many of whom he had mentored for doctoral and post-doctoral research. He threw light on the areas of his research undertaken and those in the pipeline. Prof. Mehta has published nearly 500 original research papers in journals of high repute and has presented over 250 lectures at major conferences and various institutions across the globe.
SRINAGAR DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY e-Tender Notice No: 20 of 2013-14
For and on behalf of the Srinagar Development Authority, the Executive Engineer, Srinagar Development Authority, invites tenders by e-tendering on item rate basis from Registered PWD contractors of J&K state upto for below mentioned works:S. Name of work Amount of Earnest Class of Cost of Tender Time of No work Amount contractor Document completion Construction of washing Rs. 13.235 and service ramp for SRTC 01. Rs.26500/"CEE" Rs. 1000/45 days lacs at Regional Bus Stand Panthachowk 01. Date of Publishing 27/09/2013. 02. The Bidding document can be downloaded from the website http://jktenders.gov.in from 10.00 AM on 28/09/2013 to 09/10/2013 upto (4.00PM). 03. a. The bids shall be deposited in electronic format on the website http://jktenders.gov.in from 28/09/2013 to 09/10/2013 upto 4.00PM. The bids received will be opened at 12.00 Noon on 11/10/2013 on line. b. The complete bidding process will be on line/Date of submission of hard copies 10/10/2013 upto 4.00 PM. Sd/- Executive Engineer DIPJK-NB: 1749 Srinagar Development Authority
Government of Jammu and Kashmir
Office of the Zonal Education Officer Nagam
Sub:-Engagement of subject specific RET teachers in newly upgraded school Kralmohlla Brinjan Ref: Government order No: 615 EDU of 2013 dated: 12.6.2013 DESK NO: DSEK/legal/1711/Misc/5656-68 Dated: 13/08/2013 In response to the Govt, order No: 615 Edu of 2013 dated 12.6.2013 followed by Govt order no 278, applications are invited from the eligible candidates of revenue village BRINJAN having academic qualification mentioned below for the engagement of subject specific RETs in UPS Kralmohlla Brinjan. Applications should reach the office of the u/sd within (07) seven working days from the publication of this notice in daily news paper. S. No
Name of the School
Subject Teacher
No. of Posts
1.
UPS Kralmohlla Brinjan
Math and Science
One
2.
-do-
Social Science
One
3.
-do-
Language
One
Min. Qualification B.Sc B.Ed with Phy. Chem. & Biology or Math B.A B.Ed with S. Science B.A B.Ed with Urdu/Hindi one of the subject
Unit of Selection Rev. Village do do
Note: 1. Incomplete applications will be rejected without any notice. 2.The following certificates may be furnished with the application (a) Passport size photograph (b) Academic qualification certificate (c) D.O.B certificate (d) State subject certificate (e) PRC by concerned sarpanch (f) Unmarried certificate in case of female candidate. 3. The Department reserves the right to defer any engagement even after advertisement on the basic/technical administrative reasons. Sd/- Zonal Education Officer DIPJK: 8119 Nagam
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir Estates Wing, Shalimar Campus -191121 NIT NO. (12) of 2013 dated: 30.09.2013
For and on behalf of Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST(K), tenders affixed with revenue stamps of Rs. 2/- each are invited from Govt. Approved/registered electric contractors whose cards are valid upto 31.12.2013 for the following works: S. Name of the work Estimated Earnest Class of Cost of Time of No. cost (in Money contractor Tender completion lacs) (Rs.) document Internal electrification to 3rd floor over Along with 01 existing library building at main campus, 5.00 10000/A&B 400/civil work Shalimar Terms and Conditions 1. Each tender appended with the requisite CDR from any Nationalised/Schedule Bank pledged to Deputy Comptroller, Estates addressed to Executive Engineer, Division I shall reach the said office by or before 21.10.2013 (2.00 p.m) by registered/speed post only. Tenders in person or by hand shall not be received. 2. Document cost in the shape of Demand Draft/Payment Order favouring Dy. Comptroller, Estates payable at J&K Bank Ltd. B/o SKUAST shall be appended with the tender document failing which tender shall not be entertained. Tender document can be downloaded from University website www.skuastkashmir.ac.in on all days upto 20.10.2013. 3. Any tender received later than the scheduled date and time shall not be entertained. Besides, the University shall not be responsible for any postal delay. 4. Tender Opening Committee of Estates will open the tenders received upto due date/time on the same day or any subsequent date convenient to the committee, in presence of the contractors or their representatives wishing to be present. 5. Tender Opening Committee reserves right to accept or reject any or all tenders without assigning any reasons thereof. 6. The rates quoted by the tenderer shall be inclusive of carriage of all required materials, taxes in vogue, and/or any other extra charges. 7. The bids for the work shall remain valid for a period of 120 days from the date of opening of bids. 8. The earnest money shall be forfeited and the contractor shall be blacklisted from taking up any work in SKUAST-K, if:a. Any information provided by the contractor proves wrong/fraudulent at any stage during tender validity period. b. The successful contractor fails to execute the agreement within 21 days after fixation of contract. 9. The documents to be submitted with the tender shall include: a. Copies of original documents defining constitution/legal status/place of registration and principal place of Business with latest renewal. b. Valid Tin No. & PAN No. c. CDR/FDR (Earnest money) from any scheduled or nationalized bank. d. Payment order/Demand Draft (cost of tender document). 10. Further information can be had from the office of the undersigned. DIPJK-NB: 1745 Sd/- Executive Engineer
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NEWS
Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
THURSDAY OCTOBER | 03 | 2013
Mian Altaf inaugurates Wildlife Week Asks authorities to check man-animal conflicts
said during past four years, the department has succeeded in curbing the timber smuggling for the forests
cerned officers to take necessary steps so that the lives of both human and animals are saved. He said
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 2: Underlining need for making people aware, particularly those living near the jungles, about the precautions need to be taken whenever a wild-animal turns man-eater, the Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmad has asked the authorities of Wildlife Department to take concrete measures for containing man-animal conflicts besides saving human population from becoming victims of such incidents. there is no time table when an aniThe Minister was addressing at a of the State.. Senior officers from State Pollumal turns man-eater and directed function organized by Wildlife Protion Control Board, Forest, Environthe authorities to devise a pre-plan tection Department in connection ment and Remote Sensing, NGOs, for sensitizing the people about the with celebrations of Wildlife Week Environmenlists, teachers and studifferent methodologies of animals’ here at SKICC today Describing human lives pre- dents of several schools were pres- attacks, besides suggesting protecent on the occasion. tive measures for saving their lives. cious, the Minister said that human Terming the human lives preHe said unless the people are not lives should be on priority while Lone News Khan sensitized, News Agency Ganderbal cious,Kangan Mian Altaf asked the conthe graph of man-aniconserving wildlife and forests. HeAgency
Zabarwan Times is available at
mal conflict cannot be reduced, he added. The Minister said that priority of the Government is to control man-animal conflicts, adding that field functionaries of the department need to be mobilized across the State particularly in those areas where such incidents have been often taking place. Mian Altaf said that the compensation of man-animal conflict victims has been increased to Rs. 3 lakh from Rs. 1 lakh, while as Rs. 25,000 are being paid to those get injured in such incidents. He said the cost of treatment of injured persons is higher than the compensation and advocated for increasing the limit of this existing amount. The Minister asked to organize such more seminars at district levels and block levels involving NGOs, media and civil society to yield better results. He said it is duty of the department to take effective steps for taking forward the activities of the department. Regarding the progress of the project started for conservation and safety of Hangul and Markhor, the Minister said that achievements of the project are not matching with the expectations, adding that the
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 es Agency to provide excellent winds participating. Lone News Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora and landscape for this advenDirector Tourism Kashmir, Bhat News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency Kunzar ture. TalatParvaz, Manging DirecDar News Agency Beerwah News Agency Sumbal The Paragliding festival tors, Bashir CCC, Mr TufailMatto, Reshi News Safapora Saleem News Agency wasAgency organized by Tourism Managing Director, JKTDC, PattanSRINAGAR, OCTOBER 02 Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore On the eve of Gandhi JayAltaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund anti, Wednesday, J&K Khadi Jeelani News Agency Baramulla G.M News Agency Sopore and Village Industries Board organised a 7-day State Level Shah News Agency Kupwara Sultan News Agency Handwara Exhibition-cum-sale of local Sheikh News Agency Islamabad SRINAGAR, SEPT 02:Younis News Agency Langate products at Sangarmall City Reshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way News AgencyCentre Tral here. The Exhibition Inaugurating the Turray 7-day News Agency Tral Badru News Agency Bijbehara was inaugurated by Minister long paragliding festival at for Law, Justice and ParliamenNews Agency Kulgam Malik News Agency Arwani Chandpora, Harwan Rahi today, tary Affairs, Mir Saifullah. Rah News Agency Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil the Tourism Minister Ghulam State Director, Khadi and
G.A.Mir inaugurates 7-day Paragliding festival at Chandpora Harwan
Says efforts on to make Kashmir as adventure destination
Ahmad Mir said that paragliding is one of the latestnewest entries in the list of adventure sports in the State of Jammu and Kashmir. “Being blessed with endless plush greenery and exquisite hilltops, it is a perfect place to try paragliding and one can choose to glide over valleys, mountains or lakes “, he said and added that for this adventure aero sport at Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Harwan and Baderwah are iconic plac-
Department to introduce it at commercial level under private sector, for the purpose the Department also facilitates local youth by providing them necessary training of paragliding. During the festival days several adventure competitions like tendon, solo flights and paraglides would be held, in which besides State players 31 National level players are
Shamim distributes Rs. 2.72 lakh among 19 ailing persons SRINAGAR OCTOBER 02: Chairperson, J&K Commission for Women and MLA Habba Kadal, Mrs. Shahmim Firdous today distributed Rs. 2.72 lakh among 19 beneficiaries suffering from various ailments for their treatment here. The amount was provided out of the Chief Minister’s Relief Funds. Mrs. Shamim extended her gratitude to the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for providing necessary funds to advance the cause of the needy and the helpless, adding that Chief Minister remains committed towards working for the welfare of the people. She said the amount provided to the beneficiaries will provide monetary relief to these people and will also help them in getting the better treatment to save their life.
Sahai visits B&J hospital to enquires wellbeing of injured student SRINAGAR OCTOBER 02: Additional Director General of Police (Armed) Mr. S M Sahai, immediately after concluding prize distribution function of, rushed to Bone & Joint hospital, Barzulla to enquire about the wellbeing of Miss Aksha Sabir, a 5th class girl student from Lal Public High School, Bota Kadal, who got injured while participating in the Kashmir Marathon “Run for Fun”.The Marathon organized by the J&K Police was flagged off by the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar here today at Police Golf Course and passed through various destinations of the city.
Mr. Shamim Ahmad besides a number of Tourists, adventure lovers and locals were present who evinced keen interest in paragliding.Speaking on the occasion, Tourism Minister said that J&K Tourism is planning to push Kashmir as an adventure tourism destination, as domestic as well as foreign tourists do come to the Valley to see the scenic beauty and splendour of Kashmir.
Village Industries Commission, GoI, Mr Baldari Singh presided over the function which was attended by officers of Industries sector, Khadi Institutions, entrepreneurs and artisans besides large number of people.Various products including Kashmiri Namdas, Gabbas, Pashmina and Kani Shawls, Carpets, wood furniture and carving items, Papermachie items, Brass and Copper Utensils, Honey and Fruit
Jams and other products are available on special discounts for sale spread over 40 Stalls set up in the exhibition. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that Mahatma Gandhi presented Khadi and Village Industries as a symbol of Nationalism, equality and self-reliance, adding that besides struggling for the political freedom, Gandhiji throughout his life also championed the cause of social and economic freedom of the people by encouraging selfreliance and supporting the cause of local Khadi and Cottage Industries. His Swadeshi movement highlighted the significance of self-reliance and economic freedom and his legacy has continued to inspire us to support and encourage our artisans and local small scale industries, through many Governments spon-
sored flagship programmes and schemes.Calling youth to actively participate and contribute in industrial and selfemployment activities, the Minister said that the schemes launched by the government for empowering artisans and unemployed youth has helped in establishment of hundreds of units, thereby providing employment to thousands of unemployed youth. He asked the young entrepreneurs and unit holders to look for more and more avenues to expand their units further and look for diverse market opportunities outside also.Saifullah also appreciated the Youth who have availed the benefits of Government Schemes and contributed positively in not only their own self-reliance but also generating employment avenues for scores of other young people.
Scientific methods for development of farmers will be intoduced; karbalie
Anayat Ali
Kargil/02-10-13: The Horticulture Department organized three days Fruit Growers Camp, during which the fruit growers form all over Kargil displayed their best fruit products like, Apricot, Apple, Pears, Grapes, Jams and Jellies, etc. which concluded today at Indoor Stadium Kargil. On this occasion the Chief Executive Councilor LAHDC Kargil Haji Asgar Ali Karbalie was the Chief Guest and the Executive Councilor for Tourism Skalang Wangail was the Guest of Honour. During the Camp while Interacting with the fruit growers of Kargil Karbalie told that the living status of the people of Kargil will change only and if the people focus on the four traditional industries of Kargil which is Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal and Sheep Husbandry and should produce vegetables, fruit, meats etc for commercial purpose. These four sectors will boost the economical development of Kargil, leading to the overall development of Kargil and due
Reiterate Government’s resolve to empower Panchayats Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Mohammad Sagar, has reiterated the determination of Government in making panchayats more empowered by further strengthening these basic institutions of democracy with increasing their role in planning and execution of development plans. The Minister was addressing a large gathering of Panchs, Sarpanchs, panchayati adalat members, SHGs, besides senior officers and officials of various departments at a function held to commemorate 144th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, organised by Rural Development Department at Parade Ground, here today.Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture, Raman Bhalla, Minister of State for Information and Rural Development Departments, Vikar Rasool, District Development Commissioner, Ajeet
KVIB on Gandhi Jayanti organizes 7-day State level exhibition-cum-sale at Sangarmall
FRUIT GROWERS CAMP CONCLUDED IN KARGIL
Sagar, Vikar address maha gram sabha
JAMMU, OCTOBER 02-
population of Hangul has been swelled despite the difficulties facing by the field functionaries for their conservation. He said establishment of breeding centres has become imperative for conservation of Hangul and Markhor like animals. Advocating for taking in confidence, the people living near jungles, the Minister said that department can succeeded in curbing timber smuggling menace with the active support of these people. He said forest land encroachment was also once an issue before the Government, adding that with active support of people and efforts of the department this practice has been checked to a large extent during past four years. Earlier senior forest officers spoke on the subject and highlighted the role of the department in conservation of wildlife and forests.s The School children presented variety of cultural programmes related to conservation of wildlife and forests which enthralled the audience.Later, the Minister gave away awards among the students adjudged the best in debate and painting competitions.
Kumar Sahu, Director Rural Development Department, Shafiq Ahmed Raina besides other senior officers from RDD, SWD, PHE and R&B were present on the occasion. All the dignitaries paid homage to Father of Nation and emphasized upon the maha sabha to tread the path truth and non-violence as shown by Bapuji for a better tomorrow.Sagar appreciated the role of PRIs during recent floods besides complimenting them for ensuring effective implementation of various schemes in their respective areas. He said that the Omar Abdullah Government is taking several initiatives to further add to empowerment of Panchayats for creating a healthy and harmonious society to live in. Sagar said Panchayat elections was a long cherished dream of late Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah which has been materialized by Omar led Government. He said Sarpanchs and Panchs including women were elected in a total free and fair manner.
to which Kargil will become self sufficient.
ous Kargil comes true. Talking about the preservation of
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
Things may be happening too fast around you today, Aries, but that doesn’t mean you necessarily have to join the frenzied pace. You’re probably much better off sticking with your methodical approach. Take the time to collect the facts you need before you jump into a major decision or plan of attack. People may be a bit jumpy, so do your best to be the stable one in the group.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Make sure you aren’t projecting a picture of yourself that doesn’t represent the real you, Taurus. It’s important that you remain true to your soul or you’ll end up in situations that make you uncomfortable and frustrated. There’s a strong transformative force working against you today, but you’ll have the leadership and confidence to stand up for yourself in whatever way you need.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Remind yourself of all the positive things you have going on in your life now, Gemini. It’s possible that you’ll be met with tension and challenges today that are threatening your sense of self. Arguments may break out around you, and you may have questions regarding what it is you stand for. Don’t lose touch with your nurturing qualities and sixth sense.
Cancer June 22-July 22
The fire within you is burning extra hot, Cancer, so make the most of this incredible internal furnace. Treat yourself to some new attire and proudly show it off tonight. Take the lead on projects that might be floundering. You have power behind your words and actions today, so use it for the highest good.
Leo
July 23-August 22 You may feel the urge to get up and go today, Leo, but at the same time you may feel like you aren’t prepared. Perhaps you don’t feel you’re on solid enough ground to take the next step. Don’t let the pressure of the outside world move you to a place you aren’t ready to go. Take things at your own pace, and be tolerant of those who choose to go at theirs.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Tension is building today that may wreak havoc with your harmonious nature, Virgo. The key for you now is to see the opportunity instead of conflict in each situation. This is a good time to gain a greater perspective on certain things. A bit of internal transformation may take place when you see things from the other side of the fence.
Libra
September 23-October 23 You may feel extra passionate today, Libra, so don’t be surprised if you take things to extremes even more than usual. There’s an aggression within you that’s working to help keep you in control of every situation. Remember that you must be prepared to receive whatever you dish out. There’s a warring instinct in everyone that’s likely to emerge on a day like this.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 Find your strength from within, Scorpio. There’s a great deal of it in there, and it’s ready to erupt like a volcano. Let your passion drive your engine today and you’ll be amazed at the incredible places you can go. Don’t be afraid to take things to extremes. Your fantastic good luck will pull you out of any sticky predicament.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Supporting the scientific implementation in the production, processing and marketing of fruits and agriculture products CEC assured that the government will try its best to make the farmers equipped with scientific methods so that the dream of prosper-
apricot species, and to make Kargil an international bank of Apricot, Karbalie told that this unique fruit plant should be preserved and will try to do so, as there are more than 150 varieties of Apricot in Kargil according to KVK Kargil survey.
IT Minister flags off Digital Literacy Yatra, Khidmat-e-Tohfa Feroz asks students to develop their potential to the fullest SRINAGAR OCTOBER 02: Minister of State for Information Technology and Science & Technology, Feroz Ahmed Khan today flagged- off the “Digtal Literacy Yatra and Khidmat-eTohfa” in collaboration with Intel Partner at SKICC, as a part of the citizen Literacy Programme, initiative aimed at the youth of the State for imparting technology literacy skills thereby enhancing their employability opportunities. Commissioner Secretary, Information Technology, Science and Technology, Bipul Pathak, Director Strategic Initiatives and PBJ, Intel South Asia, Rajiv Bhalla,
Addl. Chief Executive officer Jammu and Kashmir e-governance Agency (JAKEGA) Dara Singh and large number of youth were present on the occasion. Addressing the function on the occasion, the Minister said that Digital Literacy Yatra features a mobile Lab which will traverse the State and reach the youth within the age group of 16-25 years across five districts. He said that the participants will be selected through a competitive process and trained on making a local small scale business successful. The mobile lab will include laptop for hands-on training and will be a direct access point for the youth of various far-flung areas of these districts of the State. Mr. Khan said that Khidmat Centre Facilitators will be trained on Intel ( R ) Learn Technology and Entrepreneurship to develop the capacity to design entrepreneurial activities with ICT that allow individual students to learn with practical orientation so that students can develop their potential to the fullest.
Your strong yet steady pace may get a lift today, Sagittarius. It might seem like there’s a fire under your feet, and you probably need to keep moving in order to keep yourself from getting burned. Use your independent streak to get things done the way you want them. This could be a powerhouse day for you!
Capricorn December 22-January 19
There’s excitement today that indicates that things are happening, things are changing. Stay alert and in tune with what’s going on around you, Capricorn. There’s a wonderful energy charge urging you to push the boundaries of everything going on around you. Do your part to help the world evolve to a happier, more peaceful place.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
You’re the sensitive one in a sea of anger today, Aquarius, so keep your guard up. Don’t be tempted or seduced by any rage around you. Be wary of people who seem motivated by fear. You’ll be much better off when you align yourself with those who act from a point of neutrality and self-confidence. Model your behavior after the people you see as superheroes in your world.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 You should mesh quite well with the prevailing energy today, Pisces. There’s a powerful, transformative force helping to give greater strength to your ego and vitality. Note the fiery energy about the day that encourages your dynamic and forceful personality to shine through. Feel free to express your independence in every situation.
Editorial/Opinion The Daily
Zabarwan Times Thursday, 03 October 2013
Indo-Pak relations on threshold of a new dawn
T
he appreciation of the international community for better relations between India and Pakistan can be gauged from the fact that the UN General Secretary Banki Moon issued a statement hailing the talks between Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and his counterp a r t M r. N a w a z S h a r i e f a t Washington on the sidelines of the annual session of UN general assembly. Secretary General in fact is representing the world body and his voice can be taken as the voice of the whole world community. Before this the US president Barak Obama also praised the Indo-Pak leadership to come on negotiation table for sorting out their differences. If one goes by the policy announcements and media reports emanating from different countries, one will easily come to the conclusion that nobody wants any dangers and irritants for the peace and stability of the world. India and Pakistan are not only too important countries of Asia but they value much as far as the world fora is concerned. Somehow the ice has been broken and a motion has been set in for further talks to address all outstanding issues between the two countries. However, the unfortunate incidents occurring at line of control or international border create ill will between the two neighbours and ultimately result in derailing the dialogue process which otherwise should be a continuous exercise so that both the neighbours understand each other’s point of view thoroughly ultimately giving birth to a mechanism which will carve out a permanent solution of the problems including Kashmir problem which will be acceptable to all stake holders including the people of Kashmir. The persistent ceasefire violations are not going to help the cause of any of the concerned parties as these violations will result in deterioration of the situation which in turn will halt all communication channels and dialogue process. The leadership of the two countries should be sane enough to understand the aspirations of the people who aspire for peace and stability in the sub continent so that the resources wasted on security related expenditure can be saved and utilized for the eradication of poverty and welfare of general masses. The two countries have seen many upheavals in their relations and the past bitterness should be forgotten and a new beginning made in the bilateral field and that is what is call of the time.
Daily
ZABARWAN TIMES 9
Thursday, 03 October 2013
Empowering Women, Nurturing Children Achievements of Ministry of Women and Child Development
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he Ministry of Women and Child Development is the nodal ministry for all issues concerning women and children. The Ministry is moving forward towards a paradigm shift in its approach to social sector issues which were earlier welfare oriented but now look at holistic empowerment, especially of the marginalized. The emphasis continues to be on empowerment and development of women, adolescent girls and children in all spheres of life. The Ministry has achieved several significant milestones in the past four years. Significant Legislations The Ministry has enacted the Sexual Harassment of Women at Work Place (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The Act is a landmark as there was no such legislation in the country to address the issue of sexual harassment at the workplace. The Act covers all women irrespective of their age and employment status at the private and public working spaces including domestic workers and those in the unorganised and informal sectors of work. Clients and customers are covered through this Act. The Act extends to organisations, department, office, branch unit etc. in the public and private sector, organized and unorganized, hospitals, nursing homes, educational institutions, sports institutes, stadiums, sports complex and any place visited by the employee during the course of employment including the transportation. Rules are currently being framed for operationalising the Act. To address the growing instances of child abuse, the Ministry has brought in a special law, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 which came into force from 14 November, 2012. The Act provides protection to children from the offences of sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography through stringent punishment. The Act mandates special courts for speedy trial, child friendly procedures in courts and punishment for not reporting the offence to police or appropriate authority, and for abetment and making false complaint or false information. In addition, the Ministry has amended the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of
Children) Act, 2000 in 2011 to remove discriminatory references to children affected by disease such as leprosy, tuberculosis, hepatitis-B etc. Notification in this regard has been issued on 8 September, 2011. The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Amendment Bill, 2012 has been introduced in the RajyaSabha which has referred the Bill to Department related Parliamentary Standing Committee for consideration. Also, Cabinet Note for amendment in Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 has been circulated to the concerned Ministries for their comments. Schemes for Women The Ministry launched the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (RGSEAG), also known as‘SABLA’ in November, 2010. The scheme aims at all-round development of adolescent girls of 11-18 years by making them self-reliant by improving their health and nutrition status and facilitating access to learning an d public services through various interventions such as health, education, vocational training and counselling and guidance at the AnganwadiCenters. SABLA is at present running in 205 districts across the country. During 201213, 88.76 lakhs adolescent girls have benefitted under this scheme (as on 31.12.2012). A comprehensive scheme called ‘Ujjawala’ aims to prevent trafficking on the one hand and also provides rescue and rehabilitation of victims. It has five specific components- Prevention, Rescue, Rehabilitation, Reintegration and Repatriation of victims of trafficking. The Scheme is mainly implemented through NGOs. In 2012-13, 73 projects have been approved and Rs. 7.39 crore has been released. A conditional cash transfer scheme, Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojana (IGMSY) has benefitted 4.69 lakh pregnant and lactating mothers during 2012-13. Being implemented on pilot basis in 53 selected districts using the platform of ICDS, the scheme envisages providing cash to Pregnant & Lactating (P&L) women during pregnancy and lactation in response to individual fulfilling specific conditions. It addresses short term income
support objectives with long term objective of behavioural and attitudinal changes. This Scheme is included in the DBT scheme of the government. The ‘Swadhar’ scheme addresses specific vulnerability of women in difficult circumstances through a home-based holistic and integrated approach. It provides shelter, food, clothing, counselling, training, clinical and legal aid and aims to rehabilitate the women in difficult circumstances. Rs. 2363.15 lakhs have been released to the scheme for 2009-2013. The Ministry has introduced Support to Training & Employment Programme (STEP)scheme to train and upgrade skills of women and to provide project based employment under identified sectors. During 2009-2013, the scheme benefitted 30,481 marginalized women. The Ministry proposes to launch a new scheme- “One Stop Crisis Centre for Women” (OSCC) - during the current financial year. This scheme addresses the need for positive steps to be taken for women in crisis to provide immediate relief for the victims. It has been proposed to implement the said scheme on a pilot basis initially in 100 districts. In addition, pilot projects have been initiated in Pali (Rajasthan) and Kamrup (Assam) to demonstrate convergence of programmes and schemes for women. Women resource centres or Poorna Shakti Kendra (PSK) is a one stop centre for services to women were opened in 150 Gram Panchayats. Each PSK has two Mahila Gram Samanvyaks appointed by the mission who act as motivators for the women in the Gram Panchayat and are also responsible for providing training on various issues. Schemes for Children The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme, one of the flagship programmes of the Government of India, has been strengthened and restructured. This scheme represents one of the world’s largest and unique programmes for early childhood care and development. The government has allocated budget of Rs. 1,23,580crore during the 12th Five Year Plan.The restructured and strengthened ICDS will be rolled out in three phases covering 200 high burden districts in first year (2012-13) with 41 districts
from Uttar Pradesh, additional 200 districts in second year (2013-14) including districts from special category States and NER and in the remaining districts in third year (2014-15). Under the restructured ICDS Scheme, the Anganwadi will now be the first village outpost for health, nutrition and early learning for children and mothers, 2 lakh Anganwdis will now get pucca buildings at cost of Rs.4.5 lakh each, and 70,000 Anganwadis or 5% of the existing AWCs will now have facility of a crèche which will benefit working mothers in both rural and urban areas. Also, cost norms for supplementary nutrition have been increased from Rs. 4/- to Rs. 6/- for children (6-72 months), from Rs.6/- to Rs.9/- for severely underweight children, and from Rs.5/- to Rs.7 for pregnant and nursing mothers. Under the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS), the Ministry provides a protective environment for children in difficult circumstances, as well as other vulnerable children, through GovernmentCivil Society partnership. It brings together multiple existing child protection schemes of the Ministry under one comprehensive umbrella, and integrates additional interventions for protecting children and preventing harm. Statutory Bodies like Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) and Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) are functioning in 619 and 608 districts of the country respectively, and 1195 various types of Homes have been provided financial assistance. ‘Childline’ service, which is an emergency outreach service for children in need of care and protection through a 24-hour phone helpline (1098), has been expanded to 274 cities/districts of the country from 83 cities before implementation of ICPS. In addition to these programmes and schemes, the Ministry of Women and Child Development is also drafting a national Plan of Action to combat the declining child sex ratio in many parts of the country, through wide consultations incorporating the views and knowledge from different stakeholders. The Rajiv Gandhi National Crèche Scheme is also being restructured to provide better facilities.
Rajiv Gandhi Panchayat Sashaktikaran Abhiyan
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he key role of Panchayats in rural governance and socioeconomic development has been recognized since the 1950s. In the current context, the need to strengthen Panchayats has intensified with the rise in expenditure on programmes of social welfare and inclusion, as Panchayats are vital to ensure that the benefits of these schemes reach the people, management of local institutions is improved and accountability is enhanced. There is need to provide Panchayats with adequate technical and administrative sup port, strengthen their infrastructure and eenablement, promote devolution, improve their functioning i.e. regular democratic meetings of the Panchayat, proper functioning of the standing committees, voluntary disclosure and accountability of the Gram Sabha, proper maintenance of accounts etc. It is against this background that the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Rajiv Gandhi Panchayat Sashaktikaran Abhiyan (RGPSA) has been launched to strengthen Panchayati Raj. This scheme was approved on 07.03.2013 The goals of the RGPSA are to enhance capacities and effectiveness of Panchayats and the Gram Sabhas; Enable democratic decision-making and accountability in Panchayats and promote people’s participation; Strengthen the institutional structure for knowledge creation and capacity building of Panchayats; Promote devolution of powers and responsibilities to Panchayats according to the spirit of the Constitution and PESA Act; Strengthen Gram Sabhas to function effectively as the basic forum of people’s participation, transparency and accountability within the Panchayat system; Create and strengthen democratic local self-government in areas where Panchayats do not exist; and Strengthen the constitutionally mandated framework on which Panchayats are founded. The scheme recognizes the fact
that States have different needs and Constitution of SFC every five years, and elections, and making the SEC autonopriorities and therefore allows for State placement of Action Taken Report on the mous; Strengthening the institutional specific planning, whereby States can recommendations of the SFC in the State structure for capacity building of choose from a menu of permissible legislature; and Constitution of District Panchayats, selecting suitable partners for activities. Moreover 20% scheme funds Planning Committees (DPCs) in all capacity building, and improving outreach are linked to States’ performance on districts, and issuing of guidelines/rules to and quality of capacity building; Putting in devolution and accountability. States make these functional. States that do not place a system of performance assessment prepare perspective and annual plans to fulfill the above essential conditions are not of Panchayats; Strengthening Gram access funds under the scheme. A Central eligible for funds under RGPSA. Twenty Sabhas, promoting Mahila Sabhas/Ward Steering Committee headed by the Union percent scheme funds are linked to action Sabhas; Institutionalizing accountability Minister, Panchayati Raj provides policy taken by the States for implementation of processes such as voluntary disclosure of level guidance, while a Central Executive the provisions of the 73rd Amendment to i n f o r m a t i o n a n d s o c i a l a u d i t ; Committee headed by Union Secretary, the Constitution of India in the following Strengthening the system of budgeting, accounts and audit, including use of eenabled processes. Maintenance of Panchayat accounts on-line at least for The goals of the RGPSA are to enhance District and Intermediate Panchayats. Issuing of guidelines/rules for voluntary capacities and effectiveness of Panchayats disclosure of budget and accounts by Panchayat, and ensuring compliance of and the Gram Sabhas; Enable democratic State laws and rules with PESA. Activities that can be included in State plans under RGPSA are- Administrative decision-making and accountability in and Technical Support at the Gram Panchayat level; GP Buildings; Capacity Panchayats and promote people’s Building and Training of Elected Representatives & Functionaries; participation; Strengthen the institutional Institutional Structure for Training at State, District & Block level; e-enablement of Panchayats; Support to Panchayat structure for knowledge creation and Processes and Procedures in Panchayats with Inadequate Revenue Base; Special capacity building of Panchayats Support for Gram Sabhas in PESA and NE Areas; Programme Management; Panchayati Raj oversees the implementa- areas - Articulating an appropriate policy Information, Education, Communication tion of the scheme. This scheme is framework for providing administrative (IEC); Strengthening of State Election applicable to all States/ UTs including and technical support to Panchayats; Commission (SECs) and Innovative those which presently are not covered by Strengthening the financial base of Activities in States. In addition, RGPSA Part IX of the Constitution. States are Panchayats by assigning appropriate taxes, will provide support to innovative projects required to fulfill some essential conditions fees, etc.; Provision of untied funds to to strengthen Panchayati Raj and for accessing any RGPSA funds which Panchayats and timely release of SFC and incentivize Panchayats for their perforinclude - Regular elections to Panchayats Central Finance Commission (CFC) mance. or local bodies in non-Part IX areas under grants; Ensuring devolution of funds, By strengthening Panchayati Raj, the superintendence and control of the functions and functionaries; Preparing and RGPSA will strengthen grassroots State Election Commission (SEC); At least operationalizing a framework for bottom- governance in the country, enhance one third reservation for women in up grassroots planning and convergence accountability and increase the space for Panchayats or other local bodies; through the DPC; Ensuring free and fair people’s participation.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer.
8
ZABARWAN TIMES
THURSDAY OCTOBER | 03 | 2013
Whatmore makes ‘no difference’ to Pakistan - Ajmal Agencies Saeed Ajmal, the Pakistan spinner and one of their senior players, has suggested that Dav Whatmore has made “no difference” in his time as coach of the team. Ajmal praised Whatmore’s predecessors, Mohsin Khan and Waqar Younis, and said that a higher salary and an inability to communicate in the same language were the most noteworthy aspects of Whatmore’s 18-month tenure. Pakistan have not won a Test series since Whatmore, a former Australia international and World Cup-winning coach with Sri Lanka, took charge in 2012. That was on the back of Pakistan whitewashing England in the UAE under Mohsin but, ahead of their return to the region to host South Africa, their most recent result was a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe. Whatmore last week described defeat to Zimbabwe in the second Test as “embarrassing, upsetting and disappointing” but expressed confidence in the team. Despite the neutral tone of Ajmal’s comments - he said Whatmore was “not that bad” during a lengthy interview with Geo TV - they will do little to strengthen the mood in the Pakistan camp, coming
less than two weeks before the first Test against South Africa. Asked about having a foreign coach - Whatmore was born in Sri Lanka and grew up in Australia - Ajmal said: “There is no difference, just
that we are paying more to him, otherwise there is no difference. Waqar handled us better. He used to stress on fitness and he used to say that if your fitness is good then you are 80
percent okay on the ground but if it’s only 20 percent then you cannot do anything on the ground. “Mohsin did well. He would scold in front [of the team] if anyone is not taking wickets or a batsman is
not scoring, irrespective of if he is senior or junior. If a junior was not performing then he would say that if you don’t, then you will not be able to keep your place.
T20 cricket helps me take good care of my family, says Kieron Pollard Agencies New Delhi: Kieron Pollard’s approach towards life is very similar to his cricket - uncomplicated. While cricketers across the world love to make right noises about how much they love playing Test cricket, the 26-year-old Mumbai Indians all-rounder is very practical about choices he has made and firmly stands by it. “You make decisions in life. The point when I started playing top-level cricket to this day, T20 is the cricket that I have made my name in. I don’t have any regrets having played only 24 first-class matches till date. It is a business as well and I have to look after my family and live as well,” Pollard told PTI in an exclusive interview here on Wednesday. Apart from being a star performer for MI in IPL, Pollard has played for Somerset in England, Big Bash in Australia, Bangladesh Premier League and the Caribbean Premier League.But does the tag of T20 freelancer hurts him, Pollard gave a pointed reply, “If people want to call me T20 freelancer, that’s
their opinion. I can’t do anything about it. If I try to change everything, I will be trying to change the whole world. For me, it’s just a matter of what I am supposed to do and that is playing whatever format I get to play.” The giant of an all-rounder felt that his stint with Mumbai Indians has made him a better cricketer. “Four years with Mumbai Indians has been a learning experience for me. The best part is that players come and go in other teams but at Mumbai Indians, the core of the team has been same for the last four years. We have enjoyed each other’s success,” said Pollard, who has played 85 ODIs and 37 T20 Internationals for his country. On the technical aspects, Pollard believed that he has become a better batsman against slow bowlers during his stint with Mumbai Indians. “Earlier, whenever I would come into bat, the opposition captain would immediately bring in a spinner. It has changed now as they normally don’t bring a spinner when I come into bat.
“Dav is a foreign coach, he doesn’t know our language much, but he is a coach and has done coaching for various countries and has helped other teams win, he is not that bad. We had our coaches, we have our language.” Ajmal, who is ranked the fourth-best bowler in Test cricket, was inspirational when Pakistan beat England in the UAE last year and he claimed 11 wickets in Harare last month to give Whatmore his maiden Test win as coach. His form will be crucial against South Africa, who beat Pakistan 3-0 at the start of 2013, and he stressed that it was the players on the pitch, rather than Whatmore, who had to fix Pakistan’s poor recent record. “I am not saying that I am not satisfied, he is a good coach and helped Sri Lanka lift the World Cup,” Ajmal said. “I am happy in every situation, if there is a trouble then it’s okay, I laugh and smile and even if there are hard times then it is inevitable, this is my lifestyle ... I don’t have any problems [with] who is coming in as coach and, for me, more important is what reaction he has on my performance. He helps us get everything on what the batsmen are doing wrong. He tells us instantly what we have to do. He can’t go [on to] the field.
Abdur Razzak recalled to Test squad, Mahmudullah retained Agencies Left-arm spinner Abdur Razzak, who last played a Test for Bangladesh in August 2011, was named in the squad for the first Test against New Zealand, which starts on October 9. Razzak has been a regular part of the limitedovers squad and played the ODIs and Twenty20 games against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. However, the last of his nine Tests came against Zimbabwe in 2011, on Zimbabwe’s return to the Test fold.Anamul Haque, who missed the tour to Zimbabwe due to college exams, has been named in the squad, along with Naeem Islam and Marshall Ayub. Naeem, who has been plagued with injury since December 2012, is fit for the tour. Ayub has been rewarded for consistent performances in the domestic season. Both batsmen are likely to bolster the middle order.Mahmudullah, the vice-captain of the side, has been retained in spite of his poor recent form, as the
selectors look to capitalise on his experience and success in the lower order.The selectors have also named
day game against the New Zealanders, to be played between October 4 and 6. Shakib Al Hasan has been
pace bowlers Robiul Islam and Rubel Hossain in the squad. Robiul is recovering from a hamstring injury, while Rubel had muscle stiffness, but the bowlers are expected to be fit in time. Young pace bowler Al-Amin Hossain has been included the squad.The selectors also announced a revised BCB XI for the three-
added to the side, while Jahurul Islam, Mominul Haque and Mehrab Hossain jnr have been left out.BCB XI: Mahmudullah (capt), Shakib Al Hasan, Anamul Haque, Ziaur Rahman, Naeem Islam, Shamsur Rahman, Marshall Ayub, Sajedul Islam, Soumya Sarkar, Mukhtar Ali, Noor Hossain, Farhad Reza.
Uthappa ruled out of Duleep Trophy Agencies Robin Uthappa has been ruled out of the upcoming Duleep Trophy with a hamstring strain. He suffered the injury, which will sideline him for at least two weeks, in a Challenger Trophy match, in which he represented India Red against Delhi. Uthappa had been named in the South Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy, which will begin on October 3 with a quarter-final between South Zone and West Zone in Chennai. Uthappa tweeted about the injury: “Hey guys! Will be missing the Duleep Trophy as I strained my hamstring in my last match! In a rehab programme for 2weeks.” Uthappa has been busy in the last month playing limited-overs matches against New Zealand A and West Indies A before the Challenger Trophy. He scored 161 runs, including a hundred, in three unofficial ODIs against New Zealand A at an average of 53.67, and 60 runs in the next three unofficial ODIs against West Indies A. In the two innings he played in the Challenger Trophy, he produced scores of 9 and 7. He will hope to be fit in time for the Ranji
Trophy in which Karnataka’s first match starts on
November 7 against Jharkhand.
Kashmir Marathon held
Sagar appreciates role of JKP in sports arena
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 02: Minister of Rural Development, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has highlighted the role of Jammu and Kashmir Police in promoting sports in the State, besides performing their professional duties. The Minister was speaking at the flagoff ceremony of Kashmir Marathon “ Run for Fun” organised by Jammu and Kashmir Police at Police Golf Course Boulevard here this morning. More than 3000 athletes including men, women and students from various educational institutions, besides a large number of retired and serving police personnel including senior officers of the organisation participated in the Marathon. The flag-off ceremony for different categories of the Run started at 6.30 a.m. Athletes from different districts of the valley had come to participate in the Marathon. A huge gather-
ing also witnessed the Marathon along its route
Laxman backs India to win ODI series against Australia Agencies Former Test batsman VVS Laxman believes the current Indian cricket team is hungry for more success and backed the hosts to triumph over Australia in the upcoming limited-over series. “There are lot of talented cricketers in the Indian side who are eager to perform. The upcoming Australia series at home will be a good test for them. I think India are favourites to win the series. They have the fire power to do
it,” Laxman told reporters at an award function in Gurgaon on Tuesday night. India will be playing Aus-
tralia in a seven-match ODI series preceded by a T20 encounter at Rajkot on October 10.Laxman, who retired from international cricket
last year, was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Sports Illustrated India’s annual sports award ceremony on Tuesday.On the return of Yuvraj Singh to the national team, the Hyderabadi said the stylish left-hander’s comeback was just a matter of time.“Yuvraj’s return was expected. He is such a class player. You can’t keep him out for long. He has lot to contribute to the team. He worked hard on his fitness and reaped benefits during the India ‘A’ series and the Challenger Trophy,” Laxman said.
from Police Golf Course to Naseembagh - Gan-
derbal via Habbak Crossing. On the conclusion of Run, winners of all categories were awarded cash prizes and the participants were given certificates of participation. Addressing the athletes and other participants at the function, Mr. Sagar thanked them for their participation in the event and said that the interest of the people has encouraged police organisation to conduct such events. He said JKP has organised various sports events during the summer season in the valley and the people particularly the youth have shown much interest in these events. The aim for organizing such events is to promote sports culture and to exploit the potential of the youth in different sports disciplines.Mr. Sagar appreciated the efforts of organizers, who ensured large participation of athletes from all shades of life including the students of various educational institutions of valley. He advised the youth of the State to participate in these activities which will help
them in maintaining mentally and physical fit. In his welcome address, Mr. Sahai said that due to the support and cooperation of various sports organizations including J&K State Sports Council and Department of Youth Services and Sports, the event was organized successfully. He also appreciated the arrangements made by the Traffic Police on the routes of the Marathon. At the conclusion of the Run, Mr. Sagar distributed cash prizes and certificates among the winners in different categories. Mr. Jigmit Narbo of Leh got first position in 42 Kms, while as, Mr. Hamid Aziz of Srinagar and Mr. Ishtiyaz of Badgam got first positions in 21.5 kms (Half Marathon) and 12 kms, in male category respectively. Ms. Insha Wadu of Srinagar got first position in 12 kms in girls category. Similarly, in Spoon Race, Mr Bazil Abas in boys category and Ms. Sadiya Muneer of Srinagar in girls category was adjudged winner.
Tambe and the answer to the universe Agencies I had laid out my plans for this match long before the tournament, believing this could have been Dravid’s final game of competitive cricket. An overnight trip from Delhi to Jaipur felt like a pilgrimage to see the legend take the field. Brad Hodge’s match-winning, iceman-like innings, Rahul Shukla’s revelatory bowling performance, James Neesham’s all-round performance, my pick is Ajinkya Rahane. His innings set up the chase and held it together for the most part, and its technical perfection and class would have made his captain proud. One thing I’d have changed Shaun Tait bowling on this pitch in tandem with the rampant Shukla would have been a treat to watch. With a generous sprinkling of grass and quite some assistance on offer, Royals could have inflicted greater damage on Otago in the Powerplay. Instead, Tait was in the dugout, talking to commentators on air. Face-off I relished Pravin Tambe v Ryan ten Doeschate. Not the biggest names on the pitch, but these two dished
out a duel that took us back to the days of classic, flighted legspin, with the odd flatter one thrown
in. Having come in with his team tottering at 20 for 3, ten Doeschate showed no signs of trouble against any bowler, attacking with gusto. But when he tried stepping out repeatedly to Tambe, he was beaten by a combination of flight, pace and dip. In his third over, Tambe trapped ten Doeschate in front with a flatter one. A week shy of turning 42, Tambe has been doing everything in his capacity to prove Douglas Adams right. Wow moment Shane Watson’s (dead) ball of the century, which had about as much chance of landing as there is of Watto not reviewing an lbw dismissal. Watson should have looked up to the commentary box for empathy. Who better than Murali Kartik, the last man to perform this wayward feat against a Kiwi team, to go to in such times? The acrobat Pravin Tambe’s exploits on the field have thus far gone unnoticed. An acrobatic dive at the boundary, followed by poor recovery, cost Royals a boundary. However, Tambe would not give up trying. He dived again and saved overthrows for his team. It reminded us of a certain Bermudian policeman’s efforts, six years ago.
ZABARWAN TIMES
THURSDAY OCTOBER | 03 | 2013
Sikh rights group to serve US court summons to PM in New Delhi
President Pranab embarks on six-day visit to Belgium, Turkey Agencies Delhi: President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday embarked on a sixday state visit to Belgium and Turkey with education being the focus of his maiden trip to Europe after taking over as Head of the State. A high-level delegation, including ministers, senior officials and representatives of educational and academic institutions, is accompanying the President. UGC Chairman Ved Prakash, ViceChancellor of Delhi University Dinesh Singh, Jawaharlal Nehru University VC Sudhir Kumar Sopory and Hyderabad University VC Ramakrishna Ramaswamy are part of the delegation visiting the two countries. The President was on Wednesday given a ceremonial send-off at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by Vice-President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and other Cabinet ministers. In the first leg of his visit, the President will go to Belgium at the invitation of the King Philippe. It would be the first visit by an Indian President to Belgium. In Belgium, Mukherjee would inaugurate jointly with King Philippe the ‘Europalia-India 2013-14′, a cultural extravaganza showcasing India. He will visit Turkey from October 5-7 at the invitation of the President of Turkey. It would be the third visit by an Indian President to Turkey after the visits by the President of India in 1993 and 1998. India and Turkey share common
Agencies
interest in ensuring peace and political stability in Afghanistan and Central Asia. “India and Turkey share a lot of common interests in ensuring that there is peace, there is stability and political continuity and the environment for progress and development. “…it is a scope for India and Turkey to work together particularly in the private sector where Turkish
companies are big in infrastructure globally. We are welcoming their participation in India,” Press Secretary to the President Venu Rajamony had earlier told reporters in New Delhi. Minister for Shipping GK Vasan and a group of MPs including Priya Dutt, Deepender Singh Hooda, Zafar Ali Naqvi, Baishnab Charan Parida and Prabhakar Kore would also be travelling with the President.
Can’t ignore Gujarat: British high commissioner DEHRADUN: Narendra Modi heads the elected government of Gujarat, which is an important state and can play a key role in fostering better India-British ties, British high commissioner to India James Bevan said on Wednesday. “Gujarat is an important state and Narendra Modi is its chief minister. He heads the elected government of a state which like other states can play a key role in fostering better Indo-British ties,” Bevan said in reply to a question. “If we want stronger relations with India we can’t overlook Gujarat, can we?” he asked.
Now, mini LPG cylinders at petrol pumps; consumers can change agencies Agencies NEW DELHI: Oil Minister Veerappa Moily will unveil sale of five-kg cooking gas cylinders for about Rs
Chennai and Mumbai, government and industry officials said.“Both schemes will enable consumers to exercise greater choice, freedom and convenience in major
350 per unit in select petrol pumps of Bangalore on Saturday and launch a cooking gas portability that will allow existing cooking customers to change their gas agencies.Simultaneously, this model will be implemented in identified petrol pumps in Delhi, Kolkata,
cities and portability of cooking gas connections across oil marketing companies,” the oil ministry spokesman said.Initially, mini cylinders will be sold through petrol pumps owned-and-operated by IOCBSE -1.51 %, BPCLBSE -1.15 % and HPCLBSE -0.63 %, he said.“This facility
will be a boon to migratory population such as students, IT professionals, BPO employees and persons with odd duty timings as it would provide them the flexibility to pick up cylinders and obtain subsequent refills at time of their choice as petrol stations are open for longer hours,” he said.The other initiative, the inter-company LPG portability scheme, will give an option to the consumer, he said. “Under this scheme, a consumer can now opt for the distributor of his choice within a cluster of LPG distributors in the vicinity and across the oil companies,” he said. The consumers will be able to see the service ratings of all the distributors in their cluster and choose the one they want based on service levels.The facility is available to the consumer in 30 cities. Electronic tracking of the portability request and closure is in place to ensure a consumer does not have any difficulty to move to a distributor of his choice, he said.
Putin nominated for 2014 Nobel Peace Prize Agencies President Vladimir Putin has been nominated for the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize by a Russian advocacy group for his key role in preventing a US missile strike on Syria and initiatives to dismantle Damascus’ chemical weap-
Peace Prize. Underling Putin’s active participation in the search for a political and diplomatic solution to the Syrian crisis, group’s vice president Beslan Kobajia said those efforts made him deserving of the Nobel Prize, media reports said.
ons.The International Academy of Spiritual Unity and Cooperation Among the Nations of the World has nominated President Putin as a candidate for the 2014 Nobel
An official letter containing the request was sent to the Nobel Prize Committee on September 16 and was received on September 20, reports said.
New York: A Sikh rights group has said it will serve a US court summons to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in New Delhi in connection with the alleged human rights violations in the counter-insurgency operations in Punjab in the 1990s. Sikh for Justice had planned to serve the summons on Singh during his visit to Washington last week but could not do so due to “high security detail”. “Following Washington DC’s law on service of summons, SFJ will now serve Manmohan Singh in India through Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra-Judicial Documents.” “Due to the high security detail, the rights group could not serve outstanding US Federal Court summons on Prime Minister during Obama-Singh meeting at White House,” SFJ Legal Advisor Gurpatwant Singh Pannun said here.
Weapons experts begin Syria mission amid clashes Agencies The U.N.-endorsed mission faces the tightest deadline ever placed before the experts of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. International inspectors in charge of overseeing the destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons left their hotel in Damascus on Wednesday to begin their work as deadly clashes raged on the edge of the capital. The inspectors’ mission endorsed by a U.N. Security Council resolution that calls for Syria’s chemical stockpile to be scrapped by mid-2014 faces the tightest deadline ever placed before the experts from the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.It was not clear where the inspectors, who arrived in Syria on Tuesday from neighbouring Lebanon, were headed from their hotel in central Damascus. Their work comes against the backdrop of relentless fighting. On the northern edge of the city, fierce clashes between Syrian troops and al-Qaeda-linked fighters killed at least 12 soldiers and pro-government militiamen on Tuesday, anti-regime activists said, as the Army pressed on with a campaign to dislodge opposition fighters from the capital.The fighting in the contested district of Barzeh had flared up on Monday, when the Army stepped up
Obama cuts short Asia trip as US govt shutdown continues Agencies WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama on Wednesday scrapped part of long-planned trip to Asia and left the remainder of the trip in doubt as a US government shutdown entered a second day with no end in sight to the funding battle in Congress that triggered it. Obama scuttled two stops on a planned fourcountry tour and left visits to two other countries up in the air, according to White House statements. The president told his counterparts in Malaysia and the Philippines he would not be able to meet them as planned and a White House official said the president is weighing whether to attend diplomatic summits in Indonesia and Brunei. “We will continue to evaluate those trips based on how events develop throughout the course of the week,” National Security Council spokeswoman Caitlin Hayden said. Obama was originally due to leave the United States on Saturday
and return a week later. Not only must the president deal with the budget impasse and its effects, but he faces an even bigger crunch in Congress, which will put the United States at risk of defaulting on its debts if it does not raise the US public debt ceiling. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew has said the Unit-
ed States will exhaust its borrowing authority no later than October 17. The fight between Obama’s Democrats and the Republicans over the government’s borrowing power is rapidly merging with the standoff over every day funding, which has forced the first govern-
7
ment shutdown in 17 years and forced hundreds of thousands of federal employees to take unpaid leave. The White House announcements about the Asia trip followed a fruitless day on Capitol Hill, with congressional Democrats and Republicans coming no closer to resolving their differences. Obama accused Republicans of taking the government hostage to sabotage his signature healthcare law, the most ambitious US social program in five decades, passed three years ago. Republicans in the House of Representatives view the Affordable Care Act as a dangerous extension of government power, and have coupled their efforts to undermine it with continued efforts to block government funding. The Democraticcontrolled Senate has repeatedly rejected those efforts. The standoff has raised new concerns about Congress’s ability to perform its most basic duties and threatens to hamper a still fragile economic recovery.
attacks against opposition forces who have been trying to capture the area for months, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Barzeh is important for rebels trying to take their battle closer to President Bashar Assad’s seat of power. At least 19 government troops have been killed in Barzeh since Monday including the 12 on Tuesday and dozens of others have been wounded, the Observatory said. The rebels, mostly from the ranks of al-Qaeda-linked Jabhat al-Nusra fighters, also sustained losses, but have not disclosed them, the Observatory said. The fighting illustrates the enormous challenges the inspectors an advance team of 19 from a Netherlands-based chemical weapons watchdog and 14 U.N. staff members face as they kick off their work.Within a week, a second group of inspectors is scheduled to join them to form teams that will fan out to individual locations.They have around nine months to complete their mission, which calls for finding, dismantling and eliminating Assad’s estimated 1,000-tonne chemical arsenal.Experts at The Hague, where the OPCW is based, said on Sunday the inspectors’ priority is to reach the first milestone of helping Syria scrap its ability to manufacture chemical weapons by a November 1, 2013 deadline, using every means possible.
Sri Lankan national sneaks into Rameswaram; held Despite the claim of tight vigil by naval and coast guard personnel following an alert about possible infiltration of terrorists through the sea, a Sri Lankan Tamil managed to sneak into the island by a high-speed boat early on Wednesday morning.Police said they arrested Chellakrishnan of Pesalai in Sri Lanka following a tipoff by a local resident shortly after he was dropped at Arichalmunai by the boat, police said.The boat which dropped him managed to go back. He had come in a high speed boat and that might be the reason why the coastal security police and coastguard and even Navy would have missed the craft, said an official.Patrolling along the shores and in the sea has been strengthened since last month after an intelligence alert that terrorists might enter the country from Sri Lanka through the Palk Strait and attack the Lord Ramanathaswamy temple, Madurai and Mayiladuthurai. During questioning, the Sri Lankan national claimed that he was staying in Tiruchirappalli and had left for Sri Lanka by a ferry some time ago and returned now.
Myanmar Muslim families hide in forests after deadly clashes Agencies Terrified Muslim families hid in forests in the State on Wednesday, a day after rampaging Buddhist mobs killed a 94-year-old woman and burned dozens of homes. AP Residents walk at a market near a mosque on Wednesday, in Thandwe, Rakhine State, western Myanmar. Terrified Muslim families hid in forests in the State on Wednesday, a day after rampaging Buddhist mobs killed a 94-year-old woman and burned dozens of homes. Totally blackened pillars stand among debris of a burnt building on Wednesday, in Thandwe, Rakhine State, western Myanmar. AP Totally blackened pillars stand among debris of a burnt building on Wednesday, in Thandwe, Rakhine State, western Myanmar. Muslim families hid in forests in western Myanmar on Wednesday, one day after fleeing a new round of deadly sectarian violence that erupted even as the president toured the divided region. The discovery of four bodies brought the death toll from the latest clashes up to at least five. Tuesday’s unrest near the coastal town of Thandwe, which saw Buddhist mobs kill a 94-year-old woman and four other Muslims and burn dozens of homes, underscored the government’s persistent failure to stop the sectarian violence from spread-
ing. Rights groups say President Thein Sein, visiting the region for the first time since clashes flared there last year, has done little to crack down on religious intolerance and failed to bridge a divide that has left
equipped camps for those who fled their homes. Mr. Sein arrived in Thandwe on Wednesday, the second day of his visit to Rakhine State, and was to meet religious leaders from both communities.
hundreds of thousands of Muslims marginalised and segregated, many of them confined by security forces in inadequately
While Mr. Sein has condemned the violence in Rakhine State before, critics say his security forces have not done enough to
contain it. They also say his government has failed to crack down on radical monks who have instilled hatred and fear of the nation’s Muslim minority, arguing they pose a threat to Buddhist culture and traditions. In a message to religious leaders that ran in Myanmar’s state-run newspapers on Wednesday, Mr. Sein said the sectarian unrest threatens the government’s reform process “and tarnishes the national image internationally.” “The constitution of Myanmar fully guarantees freedom of religion as the fundamental right of citizens,” Mr. Sein said. “We all should never misuse this noble idea of freedom of religion, or use it as a springboard for any kind of extremism or for fuelling hatred.” Mr. Sein has been widely praised for overseeing an unprecedented political opening in the Southeast Asian nation since the army ceded power two years ago to a nominally civilian government led by retired military officers. Even with a boosted security presence, unrest engulfed several villages in the Thandwe area a day before the President’s arrival. Witnesses said soldiers and police made no efforts to step in to try to stop Tuesday’s violence. In Thabyuchaing, about 20 km north of Thandwe, more than 700 rioters, some swinging swords, took to the streets, police officer Kyaw Naing said.