Zabarwan Times E Paper English 04 July

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July 04 | 2013 | 24 Shaban 1434 Ah | PAGES 12 |

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VOL NO: 3 | ISSuE NO: 160 | RS: 2/- (AIR SuRChARGE FOR JAMMu /DELhI/LEh 50 PAISA)

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

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Wants NDMA on USA pattern

Soz meets hM, DM New Delhi, July 03: State Congress president Professor Saifuddin Soz met Home Minister Shushil Kumar Shinde on Wednesday and discussed with him various issues of mutual interest.

Both the leaders have a threadbare discussion on the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Prof. Soz also explained to Home Minister his perception of timing for holding Elections to BDCs and District Development and Planning Boards in the Panchayat System of the State and Elections to the Local Bodies.

Earlier, Soz gave his assessment of the situation in J&K State to the Defence Minister A. K. Antony. In response to the what Prof. Soz stated, Antony reiterated his position that the message is loud and clear for all concerned that no human rights violation would be tolerated and whosoever crosses the limit of law would have to be brought to justice.

11 people from PoK detained Maharajganj, July 03: Eleven people, including five former militants, who tried to enter India from Nepal through Sonouli border, seeking to avail the benefits of Jammu and Kashmir Rehabilitation policy were detained.

Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) commandant of Sonouli, B K Bankhoti said that the group comprising five men, four women and two children were sent to Jammu and Kashmir cell in Delhi, accompanied by jawans.

"The group had reached Kathmandu from Pakistan and from there crossed into India Tuesday night and were detained by security personnel as they did not have valid documents," he said.

They had left Jammu and Kashmir between 1989 and 2009 and were settled in Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Bankhoti said, adding that some of them had also been involved in terrorist activities.

They told security personnel that they wanted to take advantage of the Rehabilitation policy of 2010 under the J&K government and wanted to go there.

According to the surrender policy, former militants who crossed over to PoK between 1989 and 2009 would be considered for safe return.

The SSB Jawans will accompany the group till Delhi and from there the central intelligence agencies would take over.

Three students killed in mishap Srinagar, July 03: Three students, including two girls were killed and six other persons injured when the vehicle they were travelling in fell into a deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Ladakh region, police said today.

The mishap took place at Wanlado near Lamayuru in Leh, 434 kms from here, last evening when the driver lost control over the cab, which skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge, they said.

The students, who were studying in Jammu, were returning home. Rescue teams immediately swung into action and recovered the bodies of three students and evacuated six other injured to a nearby hospital where condition of two of them was stated to be critical, police said. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condoled the death of the students, describing it most "unfortunate" and "heartbreaking".

He expressed solidarity with the bereaved families, conveyed his sympathy to them and prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls.

In another accident on SrinagrLeh National highway, police said four persons were injured when a cab collided with a private car near Prang, 35 kms from here.

The injured were hospitalised, police added.

Recent incidents brought AFSPA in focus: Omar

Srinagar, July 03:

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said some incidents in the Valley over the past 10 days have lent credence to voices both against and for revocation of controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the state.

"I won't talk about AFSPA right now. Last 10 days, we have seen two incidents which have given evidence both for presence and revocation of AFSPA," he told reporters after inaugurating a three-day National Summit organised by National Rural Health Mission in J&K. Omar said the advocates of continuation of AFSPA in the state cite the example of attack on Army convoy in Srinagar on June 24 in which eight soldiers were killed and a dozen others were injured.

"They say that AFSPA cannot be revoked when such incidents take place. Those who want the Act to go cite the Sumbal incident, saying there was wrong use of powers ... which led to death of two youths. If there was no AFSPA it would not have happened," he said.

Omar said he would continue the discussion with the Centre on the issue of partial revocation of AFSPA in the state.

"I will only say that our discussions about AFSPA (with the Centre) will continue," he added.

On the incident in which two youths were killed alleged in Army firing on Sunday, the Chief Minister said investigations are going on.

Meanwhile Omar pitched for a

resourceful, capable and pragmatic National Disaster Management Agency at the Union Government level which would be at beck and call of all State Governments at the time of high magnitude and unforeseen natural calamities like tsunamis, earthquakes, cloud bursts, etc.

“This high capacity Agency could help the States, as is the case in United States, during the calamities of huge dimensions of devastation”, he said adding that individuals States can manage calamities of smaller dimensions but not like those of Uttarakhand, earthquake in Jammu and Kashmir in 2008 and Leh cloud burst in 2010. He said during the calamities of bigger magnitude all States otherwise look

for the help from Union Government and Armed Forces for rescue and relief measures, as such, a high powered and high capacity Disaster Management Agency at the National level is needed to be actively available to the States to cope up major calamities in a befitting manner.

Interacting with the Probationary IFS Officers here, the Chief Minister underlined the importance of balancing development needs of people with environment necessities adding that unchecked and illegal infrastructure development particularly in tourist areas at the cost of environment is fatal and responsible for massive damage and causalities during natural calamities “When we block the natural passage of rain water coming down from mountains by building structures, we See Omar on Pg. 11

WhO to support JK for quality health system Srinagar, July 03: The World Health Organization(WHO) has offered technical support to Jammu and Kashmir government for universalization of health care system and underscored the need to make the State polio free with special concentration to cover the remotest and border areas under the full coverage of immunization programme.

This was revealed by the World Health Organization Representative in India, Dr. Nata Menabde during her meeting with Minister of State for Health, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Khan on the side lines of 3-day long National Summit on ‘Best Practices and Innovations in Public Health care System’ commenced today at SKICC. The WHO representative appreciated the Jammu and Kashmir Government for introducing Pentavalent

Vaccine in its immunization programme, besides the new initiatives taken up for universalization of health care facilities in the State. She said that WHO desire to help the State in capacity building of manpower to render best services in annihilation of contiguous and non-contiguous diseases. She also suggested for encouraging upgradation of health care facilities under private sector in the State.

Mr. Shabir gave a detailed brief of the steps taken by the State Government for universalization of quality healthcare facilities in the State.

He expressed his gratitude to WHO for offering technical guidance to the government in improving quality health care facilities.

The Minister said under the Flagship Programme of National Rural Health Mission, the State has made strides in covering See WhO on Pg. 11

Amarnath Yatra: No Army Informer killed Irfan: Lone SHRC takes suo moto unregistered pilgrims cognizance to be allowed Srinagar, July 03:

Srinagar, July 03: In view of Uttarakhand tragedy, Jammu and Kashmir Government today said it will not allow any unregistered pilgrim to Amarnath and Vaishnodevi shrines. “Whether it is Amarnathji or Vaishnodeviji (shrines), we are not going to give uncontrolled access. So what happened in Uttarakhand cannot happen here.

Still, we are taking all necessary precautions,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah told re-

porters on the sidelines of a function here.

The Chief Minister said Uttarakhand situation cannot be compared to the ongoing Amarnath yatra in Kashmir as access control system is being implemented in letter and spirit. “In Uttarakhand, people had full liberty to go wherever they wanted. Here we have an access control system and for the first time, we have sent back 15,000 unregistered pilgrims,” he said.

Omar said during the past several years, the See Yatra on Pg. 11

Defunct machines at Delhi Airport irks travelers Srinagar, July 03: Scores of people travelling outside state and country Wednesday alleged that weighing machines installed at Delhi Airport are lacking accuracy and every time the travelers are charged more than their actual luggage.

“There is no certifying agencies sticker on the machines installed there See Machines on Pg. 11

In a startling revelation, Higher Education Minister Mohammad Akbar Lone Wednesday claimed that it was the informer of the Army, Manzoor Ahmed Shiekh, who showered bullets on Irfan Ahmed Ganie and killed him in cold blood at Markundal during the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday.

“We hold Army responsible because it did not inform local police and laid a cordon on the behest of their source Manzoor Shiekh,” Lone told CNS on the sidelines of a function at SP College in Srinagar on Wednesday.

He said it is a fact that Manzoor used Army for his nefarious designs as few days

Sumbal, July 03: Refusing to accept compensation and Government job, the family members of slain youth Irfan Ahmed Ganaie of Markundal Wednesday alleged that Army informer Manzoor Shiekh is misleading media by his false statements while the fact is that it was Manzoor and an Army jawan who continuously fired upon Irfan and killed him in cold blood.

While narrating their woeful tale, the cousin of Irfan, Nazir Ahmed Ganie said that he along with his cousin and Irfan were sleeping in the same room. “At around 12 that night few vehicles appeared in the village. People took the See Family on Pg. 11

tator and ruining the career of poor students,” they said.

Terming these allegations baseless, the accused teacher said that he is simply a teacher in the school and has nothing to do with all this. “If students are complaining, then they should meet the Superintendent of the Centre,” he said.

Superintendent of the Examination Centre vehemently denounced the allegations. “I don’t know anything about that. It is baseless,” he said.

When contacted, Chairman BOSE, Hardesh Kumar failed to answer the query and put down the phone.

Srinagar, July 03:

Sate Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has taken a suo moto cognizance of the killing of two innocent youth by Army at Markundal and has sought reports from Director General of Police and Deputy Commissioner Bandipora.

SHRC has termed the killing of the two youth as grave human rights violations and has also directed the fathers of slain youth, Ghulam Nabi Ganaie resident of Markundal and Ghulam Qadir Leharwal resident of Kondabal Mansbal to appear before the See ShRC on Pg. 11

Government employee held for stealing PDD property Awantipora, July 03:

Police on Wednesday foiled the “Markundal and Kondebal Challo” call given by Syed Ali Shah Geelani by imposing strict curfew in dozens of places in North Kashmir’s Bandipora District.

Stone pelting incidents were reported from many places in which at least two police officers were injured. Authorities put all the separatist leaders under house arrest. However Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Dukhtaran-i-Milat Chief Syeda Aasiya Andrabi addressed people through telephone and See Clashes on Pg. 11

teachers dictate them each and every question and even they use blackboard for this purpose,” they said alleging that poor students who could not afford watch all this happening under their nose.

The students said that so far the Board of School Education (BOSE) has conducted examinations of three papers including English, Social Science, and Mathematics and for all these papers affluent students paid a fixed sum to come off with flying colours in the examination.

“The teachers are doing all this with the consent of Superintendent. BOSE is acting as a mute spec-

for the crime have already been seized,” he said. He said the matter is very serious and the police have already approached the General Officer Commanding See Lone on Pg. 11

Family too blames Manzoor

Bandipora, July 03:

Teachers demand money from aspirants Scores of students appearing in the ongoing Matric examination conducted by Board of School Education Tuesday alleged that some teachers in league with high ups are demanding money from the students to get through in the examinations.

Students said that at Centre number 232 of Islamia Public School, Baghat, Kanipora, a teacher (name withheld) has collected lakhs of rupees from the students.

“Those students who pay Rs 15,000 are being kept in a different class.

With all the doors and windows closed, the

be given to culprits. “The Government has already registered a murder case under section 302 and the person who was working as a source for Army has been arrested. The vehicles used

Separatist march foiled, SHO injured in Hajin clashes

After BOPEE it is BOSE now

Srinagar, July 03:

back the Army source had a brawl with the neighbours of the Irfan. “Army is equally responsible for this killing. First the Army equipped their source with weapon and when people started shouting ‘chor, chor, chor’ (thief), this Manzoor pumped bullets into the body of Irfan and killed him instantly,” Lone said adding that Army violated all norms by not informing local police that they are going to cordon Markundal, Sumbal.

Appealing people to repose trust and faith in Investigating Agency probing the killing of two youth, Higher Education Minister, Mohammad Akbar Lone said that guilty would be taken to task and no room would

Awantipora police arrested an employee of Power Development Department (PDD) and recovered stolen property worth Rs 2 lakhs from him.

According to reports a complaint was lodged by PDD Sub division office Awantipora at Police Station Awantipora that during the intervening night of 7/8 June 2013 unknown burglars broke into the office

and decamped with four computers along with CPU, Monitor, UPS, Fax Machine and other items worth Rs 2 lakhs from PDD office.

During the investigation police team under the supervision of SHO Awantipora Tariq Ahmad traced the person involved in the theft and recovered the stolen property.

The accused was identified as government employee of PDD, namely Kaunsar See held on Pg. 11

Union ministry alarmed at Child sex ratio in JK Srinagar, July 03: Union Health and Family Welfare ministry today expressed concern over dropping child sex ration in Jammu and Kashmir and asked the state government to take necessary steps to reverse the trend.

"The child sex ratio in Jammu and Kashmir is alarming.This a matter of great concern," Union Health Secretary K D Raju said while addressing the national summit on 'Best Practices and Innovations in Public Healthcare System' here.

The Child sex ratio in Jammu and Kashmir fell from 964 girls per 1000 boys in 2001 Census to just 862 girls per 1000 boys in 2011 Census.

"I do not worry so much about the fact that Punjab and Harayana have

dismal figures but I do worry about the fact that Jammu and Kashmir has such figures," Raju said.

He said the reprehensible practice of female feticide is not the one that is endorsed here.

"This is a matter of most urgent importance. Steps are needed to be taken to reverse this trend and agencies, which can help in this regard, need to be roped in," he said.

Raju sought personal intervention of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was the chief guest at the inaugural function, in dealing with the problem.

"I do believe it (child sex ratio) can be reversed. It is at the heart of the healthcare," he added.

Omar, in his address, said the declining sex ratio was a matter of

concern and all the steps required to set it right will be taken by the state government.

"I have been told we are contesting those figures (Census 2011). Whatever comes out and till the figures change, I will accept it as gospel truth that we have a problem and we have to do something about it," he added.

Omar said he would have accepted that the "creeping effect" of female feticide from Punjab could have caught up with parts of Jammu and Kashmir bordering that state but he would not believe that such a problem existed in heartland of Kashmir.

"But the numbers have shown that (problem is in Kashmir also). If the See Sex Ratio on Pg. 11

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11 Thursday, 04 July 2013 From Front Page........

Omar.........

would be definitely in heavy trouble, if there are incessant rains or cloud bursts”, he said asserting that tampering with nature always proves dangerous.

He advised the young forest officers to face the modern challenges of carrying forward development in consonance with environment requirements in a meticulous and effective way to satisfy both human beings and the nature.

He said while we have to accommodate the economic aspects of locals emanating from tourism, linking of remote and far-flung areas with main highways, construction of schools, health centres, etc we have to maintain the ecology and the environment of that area simultaneously.

Omar Abdullah said that in a State like Jammu and Kashmir where accessibility and road communication is vital for sustenance and economic welfare of people living in far-flung areas, construction of roads under PMGSY is a challenge which has to be dealt with total care and efficiency. “It is not a zero sum game, we cannot have one or the other way but strike a balance so that both go side by side and without hindering or hampering each other”, he said emphasizing the larger need of conserving water bodies, forests and natural wealth.

Referring to the vast bio-diversity, geographical and topographic de-similarities of the State, the Chief Minister referred to the diversity of three regions of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. He said such a unique feature is perhaps not available in anywhere in the Country. He asked Probationary IFS Officers them to study the nature, geography, culture and rear fauna and flora of the State. He said it would prove highly beneficial for them in future.

The Chief Minister also referred to the complexity in the conservation and restoration of world famous Dal Lake and said that the economic involvement of huge number of people with Dal Lake, there residence within the Lake and other issues have put a greater challenge before the ecologists and environmentalists to address problems of Dal Lake effectively and holistically.

Replying the questions of the Probationary Officers, Omar Abdullah said that the tradition of preserving architecture, heritage and environment by the people in Ladakh is a positive sign in present day life style changing world. “You can find the old architect of Ladakh still being adopted while constructing modern infrastructure”, he said adding that this is of course a good sign.

Answering a question on forest cover in Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister said that during the period of militancy there has been great damage to the forests particularly in North Kashmir and Pir Panchal area. He said measures have already been put in place to rejuvenate depleted forest areas through CAMPA and other initiatives.

Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Vinod Ranjan, Principal Indira Gandhi Forest Academy, R. K. Goel and other officers were present in the interaction session in which 41 Probationary IFS Officers participated, shared their experience of visiting the State with the Chief Minister and asked him questions on various subjects including economy, tourism, forests, environment, development and politics.

WHO...........

various fields of Health sector. He said that Mortality rate in Jammu and Kashmir is lower than National level, while as, he said due care is also being taken for health care of mothers and children in the State. He said free treatment for Non- Communicable diseases has been started in 3 remotest districts of Kashmir Valley, while as, health infrastructure with installation of requisite diagnostic equipment in district and block level hospitals upgraded to large extent to ease rush of patients to tertiary care hospitals, adding that Government of India now also has launched Urban Health Mission throughout the Country under which the primary health care facilities in urban areas of Jammu and Kashmir would be also upgraded.

Commissioner Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Mr. Shaleen Kabra and Mission Director, NRHM also gave detailed brief to the WHO Representative for several programmes and policies of State and Central Governments taken for quality universalization of health care system in Jammu and Kashmir.

Yatra........

unregistered pilgrims would reach here, raise hue and cry and they would be allowed to proceed for the yatra.

“This year, after what happened in Uttarakhand, we have decided we will not allow any unregistered pilgrims as they come without health checks and there is no control over them as well,” he said.

The Chief Minister said the pilgrims are welcome to the state, but they should follow the procedure laid down by authorities.

“I want to tell the intending pilgrims not to come here without registration. We have opened a counter in Srinagar.

If they want to go for yatra, they should get themselves registered and then only proceed,” he added.

Lone..........

15 Corps Gurmeet Singh in this regard. “We assure people that there would be free and fair investigation and culprits would be booked at any cost. We are concerned about the reaction of people but our job is to go for a free and fair probe,” Lone said adding that we are ready to entrust the case to any agency whom people like to investigate.

Lone said that the government has full confidence in local police. “The track record of police is very good and they have ample experience in solving the case of such nature,” he said. While replying to a question Higher Education Minister said that Omar Abdullah is repeatedly reminding New Delhi to address Kashmir issue amicably. “Our Chief Minister is right that development and economic packages can’t heal the wounds of Kahsmiri people. Kashmir is a political issue and needs to be addressed at any cost,” Lone said adding Government is mulling to provide jobs to any of the family members of the victims.

Family...........

people in vehicles as burglars and shouted at them. The vehicles left the village and at around 3, they appeared

Daily again and we all were scared when we heard some scary noises outside,” Nazir said adding that as the Irfan went outside, flood lights were lit by Army and we clearly saw Manzoor Ahmed Sheikh carrying a weapon in his hand.

He said that as Irfan came under lights we saw Manzoor Shiekh and another Army Jawan fired upon Irfan and killed him instantly, “He is misleading media that he was in the vehicle. We are the eyewitness of Irfan’s killing and it was Manzoor who shot at Irfan first,” he said adding that police must interrogate him (Manzoor) as he is the real culprit who killed Irfan with the help of Army.

He claimed that apart from Manzoor Sheikh, we saw another civilian Mohammad Saleem from Sadarkot Bala who was also accompanying Army on that fateful night.

The mother of Irfan, Haneefa Banoo told CNS that the family would not accept any compensation or job from the Government. “The reality is that Manzoor misled Army and I hold both Army and Manzoor guilty for killing my innocent son,” she said adding Army personnel acted like vandals and beat us ruthlessly when we tried to take control of the dead body of Irfan.

Haneefa Bano said that Manzoor killed her son to take revenge from them. “Manzoor wanted to get her sister married to one of our relatives. We declined the proposal just because Army men frequently used to visit their home day in and day out. A few days back there was exchange of heated argument between the two families and my son had rebuked the brother of Manzoor who in turn had threatened him of dire consequences,” she said adding that Manzoor used Army to kill his innocent son.

SHRC..........

Commission and record their correct statements.

The Commission comprised of single bench has said that the incidents amount to human rights violations and therefore, a suo moto cognizance regarding the incidents in which two youth have lost their lives is hereby taken.

Machines...........

which could show the accuracy of the machine with latest calibration dates,” one of the travelers Nisar Wani said adding that authorities at the Delhi Airport are looting the travelers.

“I was surprised when authorities at Delhi Airport asked me to pay Rs 12500 for the extra weight that I was carrying. At Saudi Air lines the weight of my luggage was shown as 141 kilogram while the weight of the same luggage at Delhi Airport was shown as 152 kg,” he said adding that despite my repeated requests the authorities did not hear and forced me to pay the extra amount.

“After paying the extra amount when they put my luggage on another machine, it showed the actual weigh 131 kg. Although they refunded me but I appeal to all Kashmiri people to be cautious and don’t become prey of the airport authorities,” he said.

Clashes............

paid rich tributes to slain youth.

Authorities imposed curfew in Markundal, Kondabal, Naidkhai, Hajin and other adjacent areas of Bandipora and did not allow anyone to proceed towards Kondabal and Markundal. Large contingent of police and Paramilitary troopers were deployed to thwart any kind of protests. Barbed wires were laid on roads and mobile bunkers were put in place at dozens of sensitive places.

Police did not allow any person to proceed towards Markundal and Kondabal and had sealed all the roads leading towards these two destinations. Police had arrested all the separatist leaders including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaize Omar Farooq, Shabir Ahmed Shah, Nayeem Ahmed Khan, Mohammad Yaseen Malik and Javid Ahmed Mir. Despite strict restrictions and curfew, agitated youth resorted to stone pelting at many places including Hajin, Papchan, Sumabal, Kurhama, Barsoo, Palhalan and Pattan.

Scores of youth carrying green flags used public address system asking people to come out from their house and proceed towards Kondabal Mansbal, the residence of slain youth Tariq Ahmed Leharwal. Youth came on roads and raised anti-India slogans.

Agitated youth resorted to heavy stone pelting while police responded with tear smoke shells. Clashes continued for hours at Kurhama, Barsoo between the protestors and police. Station House Officer, Kheer Bhawani Imtiyaz Ahmed Mir and another officer from Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police received injuries during these clashes.

Heavy stone pelting was also reported from Papchan Bandipora, Naidkhai, Sumbal, Hajin and Palhalan.

Police resorted to aerial firing and tear gas shelling at Hajin to disperse protestors. At least six protestors were arrested from Hajin are for their alleged role in stone pelting.

Panic gripped in Palhalan area when police used dozens of tear gas shells to disperse protestors who were protesting against the killing of two youth on Sunday.

Although there was no curfew in Pattan area however people observed spontaneous shut down to mourn the death of two youth.

Hundreds of people from adjacent areas gathered at Markundal and Kondabal to pay tributes to slain youth.

Held..........

Ahmad Sheikh Son of Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh resident of Buhoo Awantipora posted in Pulwama PDD Office. A case FIR No 71/2013 under section 457, 380 RPC has been registered against the accused.

Meanwhile PDD Office Awantipora appreciated the Police Awantipora especially SHO Tariq Ahmad for the prompt action.

Sex Ratio...........

numbers are wrong, so be it.I would rather be on the side of caution and take the numbers as true, till they are proven wrong. We are hoping that with the steps we are taking, this trend can be reversed," he said.

Omar said religious leaders like Imams, Granthis,

Pujaris and Priests can play an important role in curbing the practice of female feticide.

"Government alone cannot do it. If these religious leaders devote some part of their sermons to creating awareness about this issue, it will go a long way in augmenting our efforts," he added.

Div Com reviews arrangements for Holy Ramadhan S r i n a g a r, J u l y 0 3 : Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mr. Shailendra Kumar convened a meeting of divisional level officers to review the arrangements being put in for the ensuing holy month of Ramadhan here today.

Stressing for availability of essentials, Mr. Kumar asked the concerned officers to constitute market checking squads for curbing black marketing, profiteering and adulteration of milk. He stressed for intensifying market checking in every nook and corner of Kashmir division.

Regarding the availability of essentials, it was informed that adequate stocks of essentials including rice, atta, sugar and k-oil are available at the sale outlets of CA&PD. Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir emphasised for

ensuring uninterrupted power supply, drinking water facilities and cleanliness in and around mosques and shrines throughout the holy month. He also exhorted for better transport facilities. The meeting was also informed that medical aid camps shall be set up at Hazratbal, Jamia Masjid, Srinagar and Eid Gah for facilitating the devotees.

Divisional Commissioner directed JKPCC for expediting the renovation of Eid Gah. Among others, Deputy Commissioners of Anantnag, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal district, Chief Engineers of PDD and R&B, Additional Deputy Commissioners of Pulwama, Kulgam and Shopian districts, Joint Director Information besides other divisional level officers participated in the meeting.

Kargil, July 03: For the first time in the history of Jammu and Kashmir, the J&K State Road Transport Corporation started its Kargil-Jammu Bus Service from today.

The bus service was flagged off by the Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon in presence of Chief Executive Councillor LAHDC, Kargil Kacho Ahmad Ali Khan.

The fare of the Bus for Kargil to Jammu is Rs 1,000 and this High tech bus is equipped with all latest facilities.

On this occasion, Qamar Ali Akhoon said that this service was the need of the hour which will help particularly the Student community studying in

Jammu, Delhi and other cities of the country and the Businessmen in general. He said the J&K SRTC purchased two High Tech buses to ply on Kargil-Jammu route, keeping in view this necessity of bus service on the said route, adding that it was also long pending demand of the people of Kargil.

On this occasion, Executive Councillors, LAHDC, Kargil Haji Ghulam Amir Kamran and Ghulam Rasool Naqvi, MLC Kargil Syed Aga Razvi, Deputy Commissioner, Kargil M r. F i d a H u s s a i n , Councillors, General Manager, SRTC, Kashmir and other prominent persons were present.

ZABARWAN TIMES

Skill Development a viable medium for employment opportunity: Sagar Srinagar, July 03: Maintaining that the skill development is a viable medium for providing selfemployment opportunity to the youth, Minister for Rural Development and Panchyati Raj, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that they should come forward and avail the maximum benefit from various schemes introduces by the government for inculcating entrepreneurial capacities in them.

The Minister was speaking after inaugurating “Hunar Se Rozgar” programme started by the Indian Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) especially for the youth at Rajbagh here today. The trainees would be given a monthly stipend of Rs. 2,000 besides other related facilities. DDC, Srinagar, Mr. Farooq Shah, Principal, IIHM, Mr. Aijaz Bandey, President, KAHROF, Mr. Fiyaz Bakshi and representatives of various other tourism related Industry was present.

Mr. Sagar said that the government has introduced

several schemes for skill development programmes for the youth; the thrust of these is to impart various skills to them, so that they can be easily absorbed in different private sectors companies. He said that Umeed, Himayat and other related schemes have been launched, so that the youth of the State can be adequately trained and observed in various companies within and outside the State. The Minister said that the government has also created an Oversees Employment Corporation for exploring the job opportunities for the youth outside the country for which the programme like Hunar-Se-Rozgar are very important, as they provide the much needed training to them by imparting various skills.

Mr. Sagar appealed the youth to come forward and avail the maximum benefit from these programmes as it would ensure that they are properly trained in various trades of tourism, hospitality and other related sectors.

Cancer Treatment Akhoon flags off Kargil- and Management Fund for Poor Jammu Bus Service

Chittergul Anantnag link road in shambles

Shahid Wani Anantnag, July 03: People of Chittergul Anantnag told Zabarwan Times that their link road has been totally damaged and is not repaired by any govt. department from last 10 years. We requested the concerned authorities many times but no one listens to us said Tariq Ahmad a local resident of chittergul. Meanwhile people from Sonbardi Kokarnag complained that the poor people of the area who are eligible for Below Poverty Line (BPL) ration

card are being given Above Poverty Line (APL) ration cards and the rich people who are not eligible for BPL ration card are being given BPL ration cards. Moreover the road from Swine to Sonbradi is also damaged and is pending for mecadamization from last 6 years said Mushtaq Ahmad a local resident of the village. People from both the villages requested the concern authorities to wake up from deep slumber and redress their grievances.

Information regarding driving licenses available on website Srinagar, July 03: To verify the authenticity of driving licenses issued by RTOs and ARTOs of Srinagar, Budgam, Baramulla, Leh, Kargil, Jammu, Kathua, U d h a m p u r, R a j o u r i , Doda, Poonch, Anantnag, Pulwama, Reasi, Shopian, Ganderbal, R a m b a n , K i s h t w a r, Kupwara and Bandipora district, people can visit the website Ministry of Road, Transport and h i g h w a y s v i z http//parivahan.nic.in,

while the legacy data of the driving licenses issued manually is available on http//jaktrans.nic.in.

Meanwhile, for any clarification, the following phone numbers can be contacted on 01942 4 5 5 0 4 8 Tr a n s p o r t Commissioner, Office, Srinagar, 0194-2481762 Joint Transport Commissioner, Srinagar, 0 1 9 4 - 2 4 8 6 9 2 4 RT O Srinagar, 0191-2479802 RTO Jammu and 01922285145 RTO Kathua.

Srinagar, July 03: Cancer is a dreaded disease and has assumed alarming proportions in the State of J&K. However, if diagnosed at an early stage, cancer is treatable. The cancer treatment and management includes surgery, radiotherapy or a combination of these regimens and involves huge expenditures which is ordinarily beyond the means of patients who come from modest economic backgrounds. SKIMS provides all possible help to these patients by exempting the cost of the specialized investigations and provide drugs free of cost out of the amount placed at the disposal of Director SKIMS, from Prime Minister's and Chief Ministers Fund. The govt. of Jammu & Kashmir facilitate sufficient funds for carrying out the smooth patient care services but still there are over 50% of the population in the State below poverty line and are unable to manage special-

ized treatment.

To p r o v i d e f i n a n c i a l assistance to such people living below poverty line and falling under the low income group, SKIMS has created SKIMS ENDOWMENT FUND approved by governing body SKIMS vide no. 779-GAD of 2010, Dated: 06-07-2010.

All those who require financial assistance will be provided assistance under this fund. The account n u m b e r o f t h e ENDOWMENT FUND SKIMS is SB-15060.

We appeal all philanthropists, civil society members and respectable citizens of the State who are desirous to contribute towards this fund may deposit/credit the money (Zakat, Sadqat) in the account number SB15060 J&K Bank, SKIMS Soura. The poor fund scheme does exist in other tertiary hospitals of the country.

The account will be audited from time to time.

Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer Anantnag

NOTICE Whereas a joint application has been received by this office from Mr. Majid Yousuf Sofi S/o Mohammad Yousuf Sofi R/o Anchidoora Anantnag (Party No. Ist) as Transferor, (Seller) owner of the vehicle Majid Yousuf Sofi bearing Regd. No. JK03B-3496 (Commercial/Non-Commercial) covering under R/P No...... and Gulshan S/W/D/o Nizar Ahmad Shaqsaz R/o Kadlabal Pampore Pulwama (Party No. 2nd) as Transferee (Purchaser) requesting for transfer of R/C and R/P of the above noted vehicle from Party No. Ist to 2nd. Before the case is disposed off on its merits anybody having objection regarding the proposed transfer may file his objection within 7 days from the publication of this notice to the office of the undersigned. No, representation/Objection shall be entertained after stipulated period.

No: 2705/ARTO/Ang Sd/- Assistant Regional Transport Officer Dated: 01-07-2013 Anantnag RNS Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer Anantnag

NOTICE Whereas a joint application has been received by this office from Mr. Khursheed Ahmad Gattoo S/o Ab. Rehman Gattoo R/o Baba Mohalla Bijbehara Anantnag (Party No. Ist) as Transferor, (Seller) owner of the vehicle Tata Sumo bearing Regd. No. JK03A-4690 (Commercial/NonCommercial) covering under R/P No. 1204/MC/Ang and Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Bhat S/o Ab. Hamid Bhat R/o Reenipora Mattan Anantnag (Party No. 2nd) as Transferee (Purchaser) requesting for transfer of R/C and R/P of the above noted vehicle from Party No. Ist to 2nd and cancellation of hire purchase agreement with M/s J&K Bank Ltd. Akingam Ang. Before the case is disposed off on its merits anybody having objection regarding the proposed transfer may file his objection within 7 days from the publication of this notice to the office of the undersigned. No, representation/Objection shall be entertained after stipul ated period.

No: 2722/ARTO/Ang Sd/- Assistant Regional Transport Officer Dated: 03-07-2013 Anantnag RNS Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer Anantnag

NOTICE Whereas a joint application has been received by this office from Mr. Khursheed Ahmad Gattoo S/o Ab. Rehman Gattoo R/o Bijbehara Anantnag (Party No. Ist) as Transferor, (Seller) owner of the vehicle Tata Sumo bearing Regd. No. JK03-5123 (Commercial/Non-Commercial) covering under R/P No. 404/MC/Ang and Mr. Mukhtar Ahmad Malik S/o Ab. Gani Malik R/o Waltengoo Qazigund Anantnag (Party No. 2nd) as Transferee (Purchaser) requesting for transfer of R/C and R/P of the above noted vehicle from Party No. Ist to 2nd and cancellation of hire purchase agreement with M/s J&K Bank Ltd. Bijbehara Ang. Before the case is disposed off on its merits anybody having objection regarding the proposed transfer may file his objection within 7 days from the publication of this notice to the office of the undersigned. No, representation/Objection shall be entertained after stipulated period.

Sd/- Assistant Regional Transport Officer No: 2723/ARTO/Ang Dated: 03-07-2013 Anantnag RNS

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

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

Srinagar |ThurSday

04 .7.2013

Healthcare indicates development status: Omar HOROSCOPE Srinagar, July 03: Describing healthcare status as the basic indicator of growth and development of a society, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Wednesday said that healthy human resource is vital for comprehensive and all round growth.

“Unless our children are healthy we cannot think of them taking advantage of educational initiatives and developing as capable citizens to lead the country in future. Similar is the case of our work force, farmers and the general population”, he said adding that better medical facilities across the State is essentially important for all sectors to grow and ensure development of a healthy society.

In his inaugural speech at the National Summit on ‘Best Practices and Innovations in Public Healthcare System’ at SKICC here, the Chief Minister said that creation of better infrastructure in the health sector and assuring upto the mark service to people in rural areas is all the more important.

He said there are challenges to address this issue in a State like Jammu and Kashmir which presents mosaic of topographical diversities, remoteness of areas and sparse population scattered in mountainous and diffi-

cult areas.

The Chief Minister said that launch of National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) has helped in a big way to reach out people in rural areas in healthcare sector. He said that better

eas.

Omar Abdullah said that during the militancy the healthcare sector in the State received huge brunt and hospitals were more or less rendered non-functional. “We have rebuilt the

Zabarwan Times is available at perks and salaries being offered to doctors and paramedics under NRHM has enhanced the chances of placing qualified medical staff in the rural ar-

system brick by brick and block by block”, he said maintaining that a good quality healthcare facilities are being created all across the State. He

said “we are concentrating on putting hospitals to the best uses for the people and provide required equipment, drugs and manpower to these institutions so that these attend to the health needs of people”. He said better hospital facilities in rural areas are also important to reduce pressure on apex and referral hospitals. He said that NHRM has been a blessing to the State in strengthening rural healthcare systems.

Expressing concern on the decline in female sex ratio in the State, the Chief Minister said that this is the area which calls for unified approach by the civil society and government departments together. “If the data collected in this regard is genuinely correct, which we should accept as the correct till it is confronted by more surveys and investigations, we have to gear up at all levels and reverse the unfortunate trend”, he said asserting that the religious leaders, imams of mosques, pujaries in temples, priests in churches, granthies in gurudawaras and heads of other religious places need to sensitize the society about the most dangerous evil of female feticide.The Chief Minister hoped that the 3-day National Summit in which Mission Directors and medi-

Lone News Agency Kangan Khan News Agency Ganderbal Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Srinagar, July 03: Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora Magam News Agency Kunzar Minister for Finance and Srinagar, July 03: Bhat News andAgency relocation of Dal dwellers for thatZargar purpose instructed Ladakh Affairs, Abdul Rahim the PMRP project sancthe Commissioner/Secretary, Dar Newsunder Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal Rather, on behalf of the State The Minister for Urban Detioned by the Union GovernHousing and Urban DevelopReshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Pattan Government, Wednesday velopment and Urban Local ment. ment Department to convene Basharat News Reyaz News Agency Pampore handed over a cheque worth Bodies Nawang Rigzin Jora, The Agency MinisterBandipora inspected the meeting of the concerned.

Rs. 5.10 crore as its capital Altaf News Pulwama News Wednesday took a compretheAgency trunk sewer line being The Javaid Minister later Agency visited Qazigund hensive review of the working laid through near Baba Dole Demb theSopore share to the J&K Grameen Jeelani News AgencyUEED Baramulla G.M area Newswhere Agency Bank under recapitalization of Lakes and Waterways De-News Dawood Khaki Bridge. He was Water Masters machines are Handwara Shah Agency Kupwara Sultan News Agency Scheme of the Govvelopment Authority (LWDA) informed that out of the 330 engaged in removing of lily Younis Agency Langate Sheikh Newsthat Agency ernment of India. A to review the progress of Dal- News meters 200 meters have been pads. He instructed the Islamabad total of Rs. 34 crore are Reshi Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agency Tral Nageen Lake Conservation and News already laid and the balance machines should carry out the being infused as capiManagement Project as well News 130 meters is under in aNews manner that Bijbehara Turray Agency Tral execution operation Badru Agency tal to the J&K Grameen as the Rehabilitation of Dal and expected to be completed the lily pads are uprooted. The Rahi News Agency Kulgam Malik News Agency Arwani Bank. Out of this dwellers. by the end of July, 2013.

Minister was informed that News Agency Byepass NewsofAgency Kargil amount, Government The Minister laterRah went The Minister inspected the after theShaheen area is cleared the

Jora stresses for early rehabilitation of Dal Dwellers

on a field visit accompanied

by Commissioner/Secretary, Housing and UD Department Shri Jeet Lal Gupta and Vice Chairman LWDA Irfan Yasin as well as the other officers of LWDA. The Minister emphasized the need to focus on the early rehabilitation of Dal dwellers.

He ordered that the Task Force approach already instructed by him should be evolved to fast track the process of rehabilitation so that substantial progress is achieved by October, 2013 on the rehabilitation

working of 16.1 MLD Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) based on Sequential Bed Reactor Technology established at Brari Numbal at a cost of Rs 23 crores. He directed that evaluation of the performance of the STP should be carried out after the operation of the STP and generation of biomass is stabilized. The Minister ordered that development works around the STP should be completed within one month.

He also directed the UEED to operationalize the old STP in the premises immediately and

lily pads, the Crawl Cat Suction Dredger would be installed in the area to carry out the dredging so that the roots of the lily pads are completely removed.

He was also informed that the machines have been deployed in the area as the manual uprooting of lily pads would have been time consuming and costly.

The Minister felt that the machinery resources of the Authority required to be augmented with the purchase of additional harvesting machines.

Rather presents Rs. 5.10 cr. capital share cheque to Grameen Bank

of India will contribute Rs. 17 crore, whereas the share of J&K Bank will be Rs. 11.90 crore.

As on date, the Bank has capital adequacy rate of 11.20%.

Principal Secretary Finance, B. B. Vyas who is also Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, President, Finance and Grameen Bank Management, J&K Bank, S. K. Bhat, who is also Director on J&K Bank Board and Consultant, Finance, Miss Resham Kashyp were also present on the occasion.The capital share cheque

MGNREGA providing employment opportunity to people: Sagar Srinagar, July 03: Maintaining that the MGNREGA has been responsible for changing Socioeconomic profile of the people living in rural and far-flung areas, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that the scheme has also been instrumental in providing the much needed employment opportunities to people at their door steps besides creating the infrastructural assets.

The Minister was speaking at Ten day Orientation Course Programme organized by the Directorate of Rural Development for the newly recruited programme officers.

Commissioner/ Secretary Rural Development, Rural Development Farooq Ahmad Peer, Director Rural Development Mir Altaf Ahmad, Director Rural Sanitation Bashir Ahmad Bhat, Member/Secretary MGNREGA, Pawan Rathore and other senior officers

of the Department besides experts from IMPA were also present.

Sagar said that the scheme has registered a phenomenal increase in its imple-

mentation since the last four years which has also been acknowledged at the national level. He said that it was due to the tireless efforts of the officers of rural development that its implementation has been

accelerated, the results of which are visible on the ground level.

Referring to the accountability and transparency in the implementation of MGNREGA, the Minister said that a grievance redressal cell has been constituted to look into complaints, if any regarding the execution, so that a mechanism is ensured which would also provide the necessary feedback regarding the same. He said that necessary action has also been initiated against the officers/officials who have been found deviating from the set norms.

Sagar also called upon the programme officers to work with zeal and dedication to ensure that the lacunae, if any in the implementation process are removed. He said that by recruiting them, the necessary trained persons with managerial and other courses, human resource capacity has been enhanced which would go a long way in accelerating its implementation.

Kichloo inaugurates SINGER Factory at Bari Brahmana Jammu, July 03: Impressing upon J&K State Industrial Development Corporation (SIDCO) to further diversify its activities in conformity with the modern marketing concept, Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo Wednesday called for strenuous efforts to woo major investment in the industrial sector from all over the country.

Speaking after inaugurating SINGER Factory here this morning, Kichloo said in addition to promotion of medium and large scale industries in the state, SICDO must switch over to newer business activities to further improve its financial health. Singer India, the company known for sewing ma-

chines and other consumer products under SINGER and MERRITT Brands, has restarted its operations at its Jammu factory.Gavin Walker, CEO and President of Singer Asia and K. K. Gupta, Chairman of Singer India Limited, Director Industries, G.A.Qureshi, DIG,

Shakeel Beig, and President Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Y.V.Sharma were present on the occasion.

Gupta briefed that it was indeed a very important and

pleasant turning event for the company as the factory was being re-opened after a long gap. The operations had to be suspended earlier due to financial restructuring. The factory could be reopened because of the support provided by the J&K Government. He thanked the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah and Minister of State for Industries Commerce for their support in this regard.

Rajeev Bajaj, Managing Director said that the challenge before all of us was to keep cost under control and produce sewing machines at a cost competitive to both Chinese and Indian manufacturers. He added that once this is established, the company would follow expansion programme and consider.

cal experts from all over the Country are participating, would prove fruitful for exchanging the expertise and innovations regarding addressing various challenges on account of healthcare requirements and needs in the modern days. “You can learn from each others’ experiences and replicate the feasible modals proven successful in other States resembling each other”, he said. Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Health, Shabir Ahmad Khan said that as many as 4,000 health units are providing service to the people in the State in the government sector. He said there has been remarkable improvement in the important health indicators in the State which has earned two National Awards for it during the two consecutive years. Mentioning the dynamism and keen interest of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah for universalization of modern healthcare facilities in the State, the Minister of State also referred to the help the State is receiving from the Union Health Ministry headed by Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Shabir Khan said that there has been remarkable improvement in making health facilities accessible and affordable to the people particularly in rural areas.

was received by S. K. Bhat on behalf of the J&K Grameen Bank.

Briefing about the performance, S. K. Bhat informed that the Grameen Bank is a sponsored Bank of J&K Bank.

It was established after amalgamations of Jammu Rural Bank and Kamraz Rural Bank

and started functioning as J&K Grameen Bank on 1st July, 2009. He said, for last two years, the Bank is earning profit and is adequately capitalized. The bank has 201 branches and this year more 20 new branches are being opened in rural areas of district Kupwara, Bandipora, Baramulla, Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, Ladkah and Kargil.

He said the Bank is fully computerized and is working on Core Baking Solution (CBS) The J&K Grameen Bank, having a total Business turnover of Rs. 3,022 crore, has advanced Rs. 591 crore to priority sector which constitutes 70% of the total advances of Rs. 858 crore. Of this, Rs. 189 crore have been advanced to Agriculture Sector alone which is 22% of the total advances and much higher than prescribed

by NABARD and RBI. The bank has total deposits to the tune of Rs. 2165 crore with 40% CD ratio against 36% during the last fiscal. The Bank has issued 91,000 KCCs to eligible farmers and is also giving small ticket size loans.

Speaking on the occasion, the Finance Minister called for enhancing credit flow to priority sector especially Agriculture Sector. He said rural credit should be the core focus of all Banking Institutions.

While asking the Grameen Bank to improve its recovery process.

DC Sgr reviews the arrangements for ensuing Ramadan Srinagar, July 03: In view of ensuing Holy Ramadan-ul-Mubarak, a meeting was convened under the Chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Farooq Ahmad Shah here Wednesday.Additional Deputy Commissioner, SP Traffic besides Senior Officers of Public Health Engineering, Power Development Department, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Health Services, Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution and members of Waqf Board were also present.

On this occasion, Deputy Commissioner exhorted upon the officers to ensure availability of essentials besides intensify market checking to curb black marketing, hoarding and profiteering in the markets of the district during the Holy month of Ramadan. He also stressed upon the Municipal authorities

for ensuring cleanliness and sanitation around the mosques especially Jamia Masjid, Dargah Hazratbal and other Khankahs of the City.

The Deputy Commissioner also impressed upon the officers of PDD to ensure uninterrupted power supply during the Holy month. Shah also stressed upon the officers of CA&PD for ensuring supply of essential commodities like rice, sugar, kerosene oil, LPG besides display the list of quantity of kerosene oil, supply for the information of general public.Deputy Commissioner also asked for setting up of medical camps at Jamia Masjid and Dargah Hazratbal to ensure medicare facilities.

Deputy Commissioner also directed the PHE authorities for providing additional water tankers at Batmaloo Bus Stand to provide drinking water facilities.

Vikar for early completion of Polytechnics, ITI complexes Srinagar, July 03: Minister of State for Technical Education and Information, Vikar Rasool has asked the offices to speed up the pace of work on the under construction polytechnics and ITIs complexes in the State, so that the augmentation of infrastructure of technical education is ensured.

The Minister was speaking at a meeting of officers of Technical Education convened to review the functioning of the department here Wednesday.Secretary, Technical Education, Parveez Malik, Director Technical Education S. J. P Singh, Secretary, Technical Education Board and other senior officers of Technical Education were attended the meeting.

The Minister directed the of-

ficers to ensure that all the vacant posts should be referred to the recruiting agencies for their selection on fast track basis so that the smooth running of the department is ensured. He also emphasized for reconstitution of Board of Directors of J&K State Board

Private polytechnics received from the Government of India under Central Scheme Community Development. He said that Private Polytechnics have received around Rs. 1 crore during 2012-13 under the said scheme, adding that we have to ensure that these funds are

Aries

March 21-April 19 Today the stars advise you to get back into the swing of things, Aries. You will forget your past frame of mind and be able to prepare for a new adventure. Your vitality will be as strong as it has ever been. You will probably meet someone who has a beneficial influence in the days to come.

Taurus April 20-May 20

You often neglect your health and body. Your equilibrium suffers from this, Taurus. The time has come to consider a medical checkup just to be on the safe side.

You love to discover new things. Your thirst for knowledge incites you to expend a lot of energy. Try to find the time to rest and relax. Avoid all unnecessary effort.

Gemini May 21-June 21

Today you will tend to analyze your life. You will think about your lifestyle and the food you eat. Are you eating foods that are good for your body? Are you exercising enough? The stars will help you focus on your health. Health-promoting activities are recommended today, Gemini. Try to relax and find a sport you enjoy.

Cancer June 22-July 22

The next few weeks will be full of changes in your personal life, Cancer. Your relationships will evolve.

You have convivial relations with your friends, but you need to keep an eye on your strong personality and let others express themselves. Try to stay vigilant. You can’t impose your views on other people all the time.

Leo

July 23-August 22 Some people have a tendency to be shy. They almost apologize for being alive. For them, it’s essential to keep a low profile. You probably think that you’re like this, but you’re mistaken, Leo. You need a bit of reassurance.

There are a lot of interesting things inside you that need to come out. Believe in yourself.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

You’re a real master of seduction, Virgo. For quite some time, you’ve been able to draw a number of people to you. It seems that no one can resist your charms. But today you will start thinking about this process of seduction. Even if you appreciate luxury, you should be careful and stay vigilant.

Libra

September 23-October 23 You’re a real charmer. None of your friends can resist you, Libra. Today you should try to put the finishing touches to your personality. Indeed, you will be able to benefit from the planetary alignment as you interact with others. You will look for a little more authenticity in your personal and professional relations.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 The day will be calm and quiet, Scorpio. You feel strongly about finishing whatever you undertake. You probably have the opportunity to add the final changes to some projects you’ve been working on. This reorganization will give you some spare time, which will probably enable you to meet some very interesting people.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

You’re very tolerant toward a particular person in your entourage, which is probably due to your generous nature, Sagittarius. You think everyone should have his or her own experiences and setbacks. After all, we learn from our mistakes. Sometimes you aren’t very humble, but your friends are lucky to have someone they can count on.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Today you may have a difference of opinion with a relative. You will try to resolve this problem. You will be irritated by this present situation, and almost feel that your relationship has been altered for good. There is probably just a lack of communication between you.

You have to try to work things out together.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

You’re an emotional person, Aquarius. You can easily be destabilized by something you read in the news or see on television. Why are you saddened or hurt by the problems of the world? If you’ve felt some violence surrounding you lately, you will be happy to know that you can heal your wounds today.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 of Technical Education Vikar also directed for conducting of Administrative inspection to all institutions more particularly to private polytechnics in order to ascertain item-wise details of funds utilized by the

used judiciously and for the purpose these have been provided. The Minister also stressed for accelerating developmental activities, construction works of various institutions and their status.

The time has come to focus on your personal life, Pisces. Your life has certainly had its moments. During the past few months, it has been especially full of new and deep emotions. If you’re persistent about keeping your determined frame of mind and course of action, you will attain the goals you’ve set for yourself.

Editorial/Opinion The Daily

Zabarwan Times Thursday, 04 July 2013

Vandalizing Kashmir

K

ashmir is literally bursting at the seams with the heavy inflow of tourists from all over the country.

The rush is such that there is no space in hotel and many residential houses in Dalgate, Rajbagh, Basantbagh, Nishat, Shalimar etc. have been turned into guest houses. The house owners are living in rented places and are making hay while the sun is shining. People related with the tourism trade are the happiest lot because they are busy making money with both hands. And the political leadership is backing its back for sustaining peace in Kashmir and making it a favourite choice for tourists-once again.

Amid all this hullabaloo, what we are neglecting is the tremendous pressure on the ecology of the Kashmir valley. Lus green places like Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg are turning into concrete jungles. In a greed to raise new infrastructure to accommodate more tourists (that means more income), the state government is playing deaf and dumb.

The tourism players are exploiting the situation to the hilt and are reaping the dividends of the tourism flow. Add to it the uncontrolled rush of pilgrims vandalizing both Pahalgam and Sonamarg. Amid alarming pollution in the Valley's rivers and streams because of growing commercial activities, ancestral lands on which were once grown rice, maize and oilseeds are getting buried under tons of concrete, depriving the countryside of the magic it has always been famous for. Land prices in the rural areas, especially at places close to highways, railway tracks and tourist resorts, have soared beyond imagination during the last few years. Tourist resorts like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Kokernag and Yusmarg, to name just a few have become a gold mine for land dealers. Ancestral agricultural fields are giving way to shopping malls and multistoreyed residential apartments, as also roadside eateries catering to the needs of the ever-growing numbers of tourists. In most areas of the Kashmir countryside, agricultural land has been sold in violation of laws that prohibit its conversion for commercial purposes.The state high court has been monitoring the preservation of the Sindh stream which flows in the middle of the Sindh Valley. All construction work along the banks of the stream has been banned. But, despite the court directives, illegal constructions causing massive pollution of the once pristine Sindh stream are being regularly reported by local newspapers. Interestingly some bureaucrats, both serving and retired are the leading violators of land use. In the green-belt area of Sonamarg hill station, which is located on the Sindh stream, the authorities recently demolished unlawful structures after state Governor N.N. Vohra expressed concern over the encroachments. But soon after the fresh constructions started coming up along the beautiful Nallah. The situation in south Kashmir's Anantnag district, where the famous Pahalgam health resort is situated, is no different. The difference between the Sindh Valley and the Lidder Valley is that prices increased gradually over a period of time in the Lidder Valley while they suddenly started touching the skies in the Sindh Valley.

But, then, it's not the private builders who are in the fray. Land has been acquired by the state government for the massive road and railway projects under way in Srinagar, Badgam, Baramulla, Anantnag, Kupwara, Kulgam and Pulwama districts. In far-off mountain villages also, land has been acquired by the government to build roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. In Anderwan village (of Ganderbal district), the government paid Rs. 200,000 per kanal of land. The poor landowners suddenly got surplus capital which they have used for buying cars, building new houses and in some cases even taking a second wife.

G

Daily

ZABARWAN TIMES 9

Thursday, 04 July 2013

Fall-outs of global warming

lobal warming will have impact on various sectors. A preliminary assessment of impact and vulnerability due to projected climate on sectors such as water resources, agriculture, forestry, natural ecosystems, coastal zones, human heath, energy, industry and infrastructure was undertaken at the time of preparation of India’s Initial National Communication on Climate Change submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2004. The Projected climate change impact scenarios indicate increase in and variable trend of both rainfall and temperature into the 21st century, reduction in the quantity of surface run off across the various river basins, droughts and intensity of floods in various parts of t h e c o u n t r y. T h e r e p o r t o f Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a body of scientists and experts appointed under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) observes that eleven of the last twelve years rank among the warmest years in the instrumental record of global surface temperature since 1850.

The updated 100 year linear trend for 1906-2005 is 0.740C. There is no specific scenario predicated for India in the report, but this will have some effect in the long run. In most tropical and sub-regions, potential yields are projected to generally decrease. Water scarcity in many water scare areas will be further exacerbated.

Population in low –lying coastal areas and small islands would be at particular risk. Ecological productivity and bio diversity will be altered by climate change with increased risk of extinction of some species. Increasing concentrations of Green House Gases (GHG) are also projected to result in changes in frequency, duration and intensity of extreme events such as heat waves and heavy precipitation events. Climate Change would also increase the threats to human health due to increase in vector

borne diseases. The impact of climate change would fall disproportionately upon developing countries and would further increase inequities in health status, access to food, clean water and other resources.

Projections of Climate Change for India Indian projections, under future climate change scenario of increase Green House Gas(GHG) concentrations, indicate marked increase in both rainfall and temperature into the 21st century, particularly becoming conspicuous after 2040’s. Increase in GHG concentrations may lead to overall increase in the rainy day intensity by 1-4 mm/day except for small areas in northwest India where the rainfall intensities decrease by 1 mm/day.

According to India Meteorological Department, the monsoon rainfall at All India level does not show any trend but there are some regional patterns. This in turn would impact yields of crops. The process of climate change is slow and its effects on agriculture are projected to be apparent over several decades.

Forestry and Natural Ecosystems The emerging results of analysis of impact of climate change on forest biomes in India seem to be highly vulnerable to the projected change in climate. Majority of the vegetation in India is likely to be less optimally adapted to its existing location and consequently vulnerable to the adverse climatic changes. Biodiversity is also likely to have adverse impact due to this.

Human Health According to Intergovernmental Panel on Climate change (IPCC) in its 4th Assessment Report published in 2007, human begins are exposed to climate change through changing weather patterns for example, more intense and frequent extreme events and indirectly through changes in water, air, food quality and quantity, ecosystems, agriculture and economy.

Increases in malnutrition and consequent disorders, with implications for child

growth and development seems other effect on human beings. Particularly those with low adaptive capacity will suffer in different ways. Increase in deaths, disease and injury due to heat waves, floods, storms, fires and droughts, the increased burden of diarrhoeal disease; increased frequency of cardiorespiratory diseases due to higher concentrations of ground level ozone related to climate change and altered spatial distribution of some infectiousdisease vectors. Malaria incidences are directly linked to the generation of vectors which are sensitive to temperature, precipitation and humidity conditions.

Infrastructure Large infrastructure such as dams, roads, bridges incurring high costs of construction are vulnerable to extreme events like cyclones, heavy rains, landslides and floods, which may increase in the later half of the century due to climate change.

At that time, the currently commissioned infrastructure having lived its normal life span would be more vulnerable to these recurrent events.

Coastal Zones in India The holistic data of sea level reveals high variability along the Indian coast line with an increase along the Gulf of Kutchh and West Bengal line and decrease along Karnataka coast. The observations indicate a long term average rising trend of 1mm/year in sea level and a projection of rise in a sea level in the range of 46-59 cm by the end of twenty first century. The result of preliminary assessment indicates the vulnerability of Indian coast lines due to sea level rise, tectonic movement, and prevalent hydrographs and physiographic.

Agriculture Variable impacts of climate change on agriculture have been projected. For instance, increase in CO2 concretion; increase in temperature and variable distribution of rainfall show a mixed projection of yields of various crops

across regions. No definite trends have yet been established. While high CO2 can result in growth and increase in plant biomass, high ambient temperature resulting from increased emission can reduce the crop yields. Studies indicate that increased temperature can substantially reduce yields of cereals apart from affecting their quality. Secondary impact of changed pest and disease scenario can further complicate the crop yield situation. The Expert Committee on Climate Change would be looking into the aspects of measures required for agriculture and to ensure that food security is not threatened due to climate change. Department of Agriculture is in process of preparing a comprehensive action plan on the agricultural agenda for the climate change. According to India Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), some scanty information of extreme events of cold waves, heat waves and excess rainfall have been noticed. In Agra, Wheat yields were lowered due to cold waves in 2002-03 as compared to previous normal year of 2001-02. In Bihar, loss of seed setting in maize and loss of productivity in boro rice of Assam was recorded in response to extreme coldness. Research in different Indian Council of Agricultural Research Institutes ( ICAR) through its own programme and research projects funded

by National Agriculture Innovate Project (NAIP) is trying to tackle the issue and develop agro technologies including crop varieties and crop growing methods to reduce the adverse impact of emission related climate change and retain high adverse impact on production and productivity. The Expert Committee on Climate Change would also be looking into the aspects of measures required for agriculture and to ensure that food security is not threatened due to climate change. Department of Agriculture is in process of preparing a comprehensive action plan on the agricultural agenda for the climate change.

Conservation of medicinal plants

M

edicinal plants have always The Department of Biotechnology has Nadu, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Excellence on ‘Medicinal Plants & been considered a healthy already set up three national gene banks Rajasthan, Orissa, West Bengal and Traditional Knowledge’ at FRLHT, source of life for the people. on medicinal and aromatic plants at the Madhya Pradesh. The project is being Banglore also supports this activity which Therapeutical properties of medicinal Central Institute of Medicinal & c o o r d i n a t e d b y F o u n d a t i o n f o r is recognized . Implementation of the plants are very useful in healing various Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow, Revitalizing of Local Health Traditions National Afforestation Programme Uttar Pradesh, National Bureau of Plant (FRLHT) , Banglore. These states are of (NAP) Scheme include models such as diseases.

There are more than 8000 medicinal Genetic Resources (NBPGR), New Delhi two categories – one, with five States ‘Mixed Plantation of Trees having Minor plants listed in different classical and and Tropical Botanic Garden & Research (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Forest Produce and Medicinal Value’ and modern texts on medicinal plants. Around Institute (TBGRI), Thiruvananthapuram, Maharashtra & Tamil Nadu) wherein Regeneration of Perennial Herbs and 960 medicinal plants are in active use in Kerala. They are engaged in collection, medicinal plants conservation activities Shrubs of Medicinal Value’ that relate to all India trade and around 2000 species conservation and characterization of the have been initiated and the second, with promotion of medicinal plants through are documented in Indian Systems of precious wealth of medicinal and remaining four States in which the afforestation and regeneration. The States Medicine like Ayurveda, Unani and aromatic herbs which are rare/ threat- conservation activities are to be initiated have been advised to give requisite thrust Siddha. Similarly, around 4000 species ened/endangered or are being used in under this project for the first time. The on plantation of medicinal plants and are used by rural communities in local traditional system, or those which are main aims are to establish a system for bamboos on degraded forest lands and health practices. The All India Ethno- commercially exploited. The Regional Rapid threat assessment and trade contiguous areas in addition to other biology Survey estimated that over 7,500 Research Laboratory (RRL), Jammu, regulation; establish a Network of species of local ecological and economic plant species are used by 4,635 ethnic Jammu & Kashmir, is the forth gene bank Medicinal Plants Conservation Areas importance in the afforestation activities. communities for human and veterinary which covers the North-Western (MPCAs); establish a state level medici- This is intended to contribute towards health care across the country. In 1993, poverty alleviation and also to ensure the Government estimated that between livelihood security of forest fringe dwellers Over Ninety-five percent of India’s besides ameliorating soil conditions and 60-80% of India’s population rely on medicinal plants for health care. improving/increasing forest cover. The medicinal plants are harvested from the Medicinal plants are particularly States have been also advised to consider important to the rural poor, who are able setting aside 10% of the project area for to harvest these from the wild to meet wild. Over 200 medicinal plant species in plantation of bamboos and medicinal their primary health care needs. The plants under the NAP. Conserving and Botanical Survey states some of the protecting medicinal plants is being carried southern and northern India are classified out through enforcement of the Indian common medicinal herbs as Brahmi, Babul gum, Bail, Satawar, Neem, Forests Act, 1927; Wildlife (Protection) as rare, endangered or threatened.

Tesu/Gul Palash, Dalchini, Bhringraj, Act, 1972; Forest (Conservation) Act, Amla, Jatropha, Nagkesar, Jaiphal, 1980; Environment (Protection) Act, Ratanjot, Isabgo, Reetha, Kuth (Bitter), Himalayan region. A germ-plasma nal plants seed center; establish Home 1986; Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and Chiraita, Jamun, Arjun, Behera, Harad repository for medicinal plants used in Herbal Gardens (HHGs) and prepare the rules under these Acts.

Ayurveda has also been established at Community Knowledge Registers Biological Diversity Act, 2002 (Choti), Harad (Pili) etc Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal, Kerala. (CKKs); capacity building on community The Government has enacted the Nodal Agency on Medicinal Plants The National Medicinal Plants Board is More than 9,000 accessions of important owned medicinal plants enterprises Biological Diversity Act in 2002 and the designated nodal agency on all issues medicinal and aromatic plant species are programmes; communication and notified the Biological Diversity Rules in related to medicinal plants. It works under being maintained as live material in field advocacy programmes for outreach and a 2004, with the aim of conserving and the Department of AYUSH, the Ministry of gene banks, in the form of seed, in vitro multi-lingual website programme on sustainably using biological diversity, and Health and Family welfare. Besides material and DNA. For long-term Home Doctor. Another UNDP-GEP regulating the biological resources number of organizations and departments, conservation, the accessions are stored project, “Mainstreaming Conservation (including the medicinal plants) and and Sustainable use of Medicinal Plant associated traditional knowledge of Viz., ICMR, CIMAP, NBPGR, and under cryogenic conditions.

Ministry of Commerce are also engaged in Thrust on National Afforestation Diversity” covers three Indian States - country with the purpose of securing Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of handling the subject of medicinal plants Programme but each one has a specific mandate. While The Ministry of Environment and Forests Uttarakhand. The National Medicinal these resources and associated knowledge. it is research for the first three organisa- has taken various measures for conserva- Plant Board, Department of Ayurveda, Harvest of Medicinal Plants tions, it is ex-situ conservation for tion and proliferation of rare medicinal Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha Over Ninety-five percent of India’s NBPGR, and marketing for the Ministry of herbs. United Nations Development and Homoeopathy (AYUSH), State medicinal plants are harvested from the Commerce. Similarly, research on Programme (UNDP) Project entitled Medicinal Plant Boards and FRLHT, wild. Over 200 medicinal plant species in cultivation of medicinal plants, especially ‘National Programme on Promoting Banglore are executing partners in this southern and northern India are classified pertaining to standardization of agro- Conservation of Medicinal Plants & project. The main objective of the project as rare, endangered or threatened. The technology & breeding techniques is Traditional Knowledge for Enhancing is to mainstream the conservation and true number of threatened species are, Health & Livelihood Security’ is in sustainable use of medicinal plants with including globally significant species, is managed by the Ministry of Agriculture.

Genetic Conservation of Medicinal operation. It is being implemented in particular reference to globally signifi- likely to be far higher, but the status of nine States-Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil cant medicinal plants. A Centre of many species is insufficiently unknown.

Plants

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

HE A L+H 58

ZABARWANTIMES ZABARWAN TIMES THURSDAY | 04 JULY 2013

Best foods for stamina

You need tons of energy to cope with your hectic lifestyle, especially if you are into sports.

Here's a list of foods that give you enough stamina to keep you active throughout the day.While certain foods in your diet can actually reduce stamina, healthy foods help to build up your stamina and increase your energy levels, especially if you're interested in sports and athletics. As a sportsperson, you need foods that are designed to not only give you energy but also keep you feeling full all day long. Says nutritionist Smruti Gokhale, "Nutrients like complex carbs, proteins, fibre and vitamin C is crucial for those who are into sports. These nutrients keep you active and feeling energetic."

Essential nutrients

Complex carbs: When you are talking about building stamina, you just cannot miss out on complex carbs. Carbs are the main source of fuel for your body and brain. Says Priya Kathpal, nutritionist, "Carbs are the food that the body uses to get glucose, which provides energy.

Complex carbs are present in foods like bread, pasta and rice, which unlike simple carbs, keep you feeling energetic all day long."

Vitamin C: Vitamin C helps

strengthen your immune system and protects you from infections like cold and cough, which sap your energy. Also, when you are outdoors, you are more susceptible to

stamina and also to improve your RBC count. Green leafy veggies are rich in fibre and digest slowly while maintaining your blood-glucose level.

Bananas: Bananas are a particularly good energy source and these are best eaten a few hours before you intend to exert yourself. Along with being great sources of carbs, they are also effective because they trigger the release of 'dopamine' — a chemical that builds your concentration and focus.

Peanut butter: Peanuts are bacterial infections which hamper your health. Thus ensure that you consume foods and fruits rich in vitamin C.

Proteins:

Protein is an important nutrient for the growth, development and repair of muscle and body tissues. Protein has a higher metabolic rate than fat, so an individual can burn more calories. It is also said to increase satiety, which prevents a person from overeating.

Healthy sources of protein include lean chicken, fish, eggs and nuts.

Iron: Lack of iron in your diet can cause loss of stamina. You can get iron from meat, beans, nuts and some vegetables such as broccoli and spinach. Consult your doctor about taking iron supplements.

Foods that build stamina

Oatmeal: Oatmeal is an unprocessed carb, which gets digested slowly and hence keeps you feeling full for a longer period of time. Says Kathpal, "A power-packed cereal, oatmeal provides sustained energy for hours. Due to high content of complex carbs, it breaks down slowly in your body and keeps the blood sugar at optimum level."

Beans: Rich in mineral and iron

which helps your body to generate RBCs (Red Blood Cells) that carry oxygen to the muscles when you are exercising and also builds stamina.

Coffee: Coffee is known to be an instant energy provider. It is known to help fight against fatigue, as it triggers the central nervous system.

Coffee keeps you energised and active throughout the day.

Green leafy vegetables: Packed with micronutrients, it is essential for building

said to contain Omega 3 fatty acids that helps in reducing pain, boost heart health and develop your brain. Peanut butter is also excellent for building stamina. It is high in calories and digests slowly. Consume peanut butter in combination with complex carbs.

Lean meat, fish, chicken and eggs: Says Gokhale, "Rich in protein, these foods are important for growth and development, muscle building and repair. Meat takes a longer time to digest and thus keeps you feeling full and active all day long."

Red grapes: Red grapes contains 'resveratol' which provides increased energy. These grapes contain a very small amount of sugar, which gives you instant energy and helps build stamina.

Beetroot juice: Consuming a glass of beetroot juice before exercising will make your body work for long hours without feeling exhausted. Beetroot is rich in vitamin A and C — both help in building stamina and reducing fatigue.

10 foods that protect your heart Heart disease is one of the most feared ailment and a side effect of sedentary lifestyle. You can control the effects of your lifestyle by eating the right food.

It’s quite often difficult to change your lifestyle drastically in this competitive world. But you can surely change a little bit of eating and ensure you are protecting your heart.

Here’s a list of food that can help you protect your heart.

1. Black beans: Black beans are packed with folate, antioxidants, magnesium which are good for lowering blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. This in turn keeps your heart in safe zone. But if you are planning to use tinned beans, please drain the liquid and wash them before use to reduce the sodium content.

2. Salmon and tuna:

These two fish are rich in antioxidants and omega-3, two important candidates who help heart.

3. Walnuts: A handful of them a day helps lower your cholesterol and reduce inflammation in the arteries.

Replace them as mid-meal snacks instead of chips etc.

4. Oranges: They contain cholesterolfighting pectin. The fruit is also rich in potassium that helps control blood pressure.

Antioxidant hesperidin also helps lower blood pressure.

5.

Carrots: Though sweet, they are good to control diabetes, which increases heart attack risk. They also help fight bad cholesterol.

6. Sweet potatoes: They are rich in vitamin A, fi-

ber and lycopene making them a healthy substitute for the white brethren.

7. Oats: Oats in all forms help your heart by lowering bad cholesterol.

8. Flaxseeds: Fiber, phytochemicals called lignans, and ALA these three ingredients in these small seeds make them a powerhouse of health. Sure protector of heart if had spoonful in pow-

dered form everyday in cereals or salads.

9. Chilli powder: Difficult to believe, but these Indian tasty spice actually protects heart and body from diabetes with its ability to spike up the natural insulin levels in the body.

10. Coffee: It can keep away type 2 diabetes, but people having high blood pressure should be cautious as it can have a counter effect.

within TCGA, Broad senior associate member, and professor of pathology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School.

"This provides many new therapeutic opportunities for squamous cell carcinoma that would be suitable for clinical trials," he noted.

The first targeted treatments for lung adenocarcinoma, erlotinib (Tarceva) and gefitinib (Iressa), were aimed at mutations in the EGFR gene. Unfortunately, and like other drugs being tested in clinical trials that target several other genes altered in lung adenocarcinoma, they do not help patients with squamous cell carcinoma.

The TCGA effort, a multicenter consortium funded by the National Institutes of Health, is the first comprehensive genomic characterization of this lung cancer subtype.

As in the three previous TCGA reports on the brain cancer glioblastoma, on ovarian cancer, and on colorectal cancer, the scientists used multiple large-scale approaches to highlight key molecular defects. They sequenced the

protein-coding segments of the genomes of 178 squamous cell carcinoma tumors, along with normal tissue from the same patients.

The researchers also sequenced the whole genomes of 19 tumor and normal tissue pairs. They mapped a diverse catalog of genomic alterations, including the rearrangements of chromosomes and other structural changes in regions of the genome that might not encode proteins but could control nearby genes involved in cancer development.

The comprehensive study confirmed some previously identified genomic alterations. For example, the TP53 gene was altered in 90 percent of the tumours and the CDKN2A gene was inactivated in 72 percent of tumours. These genes normally prevent cancer, but when they are switched off, tumours can grow unimpeded.

CDKN2A may be susceptible to a kinase inhibitor, presenting an opportunity for clinical trials.

Overall the researchers identified mutations or amplifications in three families of tyrosine kinases, which are enzymes that act like power switches for many cellular

30mins of daily exercise enough to get into shape (Thinkstock photos/Getty Images) Thirty minutes of daily exercise provide an equally effective loss of weight and body mass as 60 minutes, researchers at the University of Copenhagen have shown.

For thirteen weeks, a research team at the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences followed 60 heavy but healthy - Danish men in their efforts to get into better shape.

Half of the men were set to exercise for an hour a day, wearing a heart-rate monitor and calorie counter, while the second group only had to sweat for 30 minutes. Research results show that 30 minutes of exercise hard enough to produce a sweat is enough to turn the tide on an unhealthy body mass index.

On average, the men who

exercised 30 minutes a day lost 3.6 kilo in three months, while those who exercised for a whole hour only lost 2.7 kg. The reduction in body mass was about 4 kg for both groups, reports Mads Rosenkilde, PhD student, Department of Biomedical Sciences.

Moreover 30 minutes of exercise training provide an extra bonus.

Participants exercising 30 minutes per day burned more calories than they should relative to the training program we set for them. In fact we can see that exercising for a whole hour instead of a half does

not provide any additional loss in either body weight or fat. The men who exercised the most lost too little relative to the energy they burned by running, biking or rowing. 30 minutes of concentrated exercise give equally good results on the scale, explained Mads Rosenkilde.

Mads Rosenkilde postulates that some of the explanation for the surprising results is that 30 minutes of exercise is so doable that participants in the study had the desire and energy for even more physical activity after their daily exercise session.

Sleep disorders signal Alzheimer’s disease A pattern of disturbed sleep could be an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease, suggest scientists.

Working on a mouse model, researchers from the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, found that when the first signs of Alzheimer’s plaques appear in the brain, the normal sleep-wake cycle is significantly disrupted.

“If sleep abnormalities begin this early in the course of human Alzheimer’s disease, those changes could provide us with an easily detectable sign of pathology,” said senior study author David M. Holtzman, professor and head of neurology at Washington, the journal Science Translational Medicine reported.

“As we start to treat Alzheimer’s patients before the onset of dementia, the presence or absence of sleep problems may be a rapid indicator of whether the new treatments are succeeding,” added Holtzman.Holtzman’s lab was among the first to link sleep problems and Alzheimer’s through studies of sleep in mice genetically altered to develop Alzheimer’s plaques as they age, according to a university statement.

In a 2009 study, he showed that brain

New hope for people with fatal lung cancer Scientists have discovered new potential targets for treating squamous cell lung cancer, which causes approximately 400,000 deaths per year worldwide.

Squamous cell lung cancer kills more people each year than breast, colorectal, or prostate cancer, ranking second only to lung adenocarcinoma in the number of deaths it causes.

But unlike the most common form of lung cancer, squamous cell carcinoma has no treatments aimed at the specific genetic alterations that drive it.

Now The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Research Network, led in part by scientists at the Broad Institute, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Harvard Medical School, has identified many potential therapeutic targets based on the large number and variety of DNA alterations they discovered in most of the tumours they studied.

"This study clearly shows that squamous cell carcinoma, like lung adenocarcinoma, is a cancer with diverse genomic causes, many of which are potentially susceptible to drug inhibition," said Matthew Meyerson, co-leader of the project

Exercise for 30 mins daily, lose weight

functions. Frequently altered in cancer, they are already being investigated as therapeutic targets in other cancers. The researchers also found genomic alterations in signalling pathways that could present important opportunities for treatment.

In another striking finding, the researchers discovered mutations in the HLA-A gene that hampered its function in tumours. HLA genes direct the arm of the immune system that discriminates between its own tissues and foreign invaders. This is the first cancer in which these mutations have been found, but they are likely to occur in other cancers, Meyerson said.

"To our knowledge, this is the first example of a tumour that has a genomic mechanism for evading an immune response.

This may be important in understanding the immune response to squamous cell carcinoma and also in envisioning how immuneregulatory therapy might be used for this disease," he said.

While much works needs to be done, the scientists see many opportunities.

levels of a primary component of the plaques naturally rise when healthy young mice are awake and drop after they go to sleep. Depriving the mice of sleep disrupted this cycle and accelerated the development of brain plaques.

A similar rising and falling of the plaque component, a protein called amyloid beta, was later detected in the cerebro-

spinal fluid of healthy humans studied by co-author Randall Bateman, professor of neurology at Washington University.The new research, led by Jee Hoon Roh, neurologist and postdoctoral fellow in Holtzman’s lab, shows that when the first indicators of brain plaques appear, the natural fluctuations in amyloid beta levels stop in both mice and humans.

Future-focused smokers likelier to quit Smokers who value the future are more likely to stop smoking, new research has found.

In order to make this discovery Drs. Heather Brown and Jean Adams of Newcastle University (UK) tapped into eight years of data from a large Australian database.

The Household Income and Labour Dynamics of Australia (HILDA) survey collects data on economic and subjective well-being, work, and family dynamics every year from over 7,000 Australian households.

Brown and Adams identified 1,817 participants who were smokers at the start of the survey (2001) and analysed their planning regarding their saving and spending to measure their future orientation.

People whose spending and saving plans looked ahead by more than three months were categorized as having a longer time horizon, while those whose financial plans looked no more than a week ahead had a shorter time horizon.

The researchers then looked at how many

of those 2001 smokers had quit or tried to quit by 2008. Seventy-six percent of quitters were long-time-horizon planners, compared with 66 percent of those who continued to smoke. Researchers in other fields have found similar associations: newly diagnosed diabetics who are futurefocused are more likely to make healthy changes to their diet and exercise habits, and cocaine users who discount the future are less likely subsequently to stop using the drug.“It is possible that helping smokers to think about the future a bit more might be a useful way to help them quit,” said co-author Jean Adams.

NATION

7 SRINAGAR Thursday, July 04, 2013

Amid spying saga, India unveils cyber security policy

NEW DELHI: The government on Tuesday unveiled the National Cyber Security Policy, aimed at protecting the public and private infrastructure from cyber attacks.

The policy also intends to safeguard “information, such as personal information (of webs users), financial and banking information and sovereign data”. This is particularly relevant in the wake of US National Security Agency (NSA) leaks that suggested the US government agencies are spying on Indian users, who have no legal or technical safeguards against it.

Ironically, the policy was released on the day when foreign minister Salman Khurshid defended the surveillance of Indian web users by US agencies saying there was no snooping and only “cyber scrutiny”.

The new cyber policy could also pave way for India acquiring a better mechanism to deal with threats from countries like the US and China, which in the recent years have bolstered their offensive and defensive cyber capabilities.

“This policy is a framework document and it gives you a broad outline of our vision. The real task or the challenge is the operationalisation of this policy,” minister of communications and IT Kapil Sibal said while releasing the document in Delhi.

He said, “Critical infrastructure such as air defence system, power infrastructure, nuclear plants, telecommunications system have to be protected otherwise it may create economic instability.”

The policy states it aims to “provide confidence and reasonable assurance to all stakeholders in the country (government, business, industry and general public) and global community, about the safety, resiliency and security of cyber space.” It said the country needs to “adopt a suitable posturing that can signal our resolve to make determined efforts to effectively monitor, deter and deal with cyber crime and cyber attacks.”

But the policy document is low

A K Antony to visit China; border security mechanism to top agenda

BEIJING: Defence Minister A K Antony will arrive here on a four-day visit tomorrow during which the militaries of India and China are set to firm up their ties with focussed talks on new border security mechanisms to avert incursions like the one witnessed in Ladakh region recently. Accompanied by a high power delegation from the three armed forces, Antony will meet his Chinese counterpart General Chang Wanquan on Friday. This will the first visit by an Indian Defence Minister in seven years to China.

Antony is also expected to call on Premier Li Keqiang besides visiting a military unit and a command centre, official

sources told here.

The visit was also to reciprocate the last year’s visit of Chinese Defence Minister Gen Liang Guanglie to New Delhi, which took place after a gap of eight years.

Antony’s visit comes days after the 16th round of border talks between National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon and his Chinese counterpart

Kejriwal’s party condemns denial of asylum to Snowden by India

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Wednesday condemned the central government for denying asylum to fugitive former CIA agent Edward Snowden who blew the whistle on US data mining.

“The Aam Aadmi Party condemns these cowardly acts of our government and demands that as a country governed by a constitution which protects civil liberties, and committed to protecting whistleblowers, the government must stand up to the US and offer political asylum to Snowden,” the AAP said in a statement.

Snowden, who is holed up in the transit lounge at Moscow airport, has sought asylum from

21 countries including India. His US passport has been revoked.

“Instead of honouring this hero as a whistleblower who has alerted us all to this massive violation of citizen’s as well as the national rights of all countries, including India, our government has meekly capitulated to US pressure and refused asylum to Snowden with great alacrity,” the AAP said.

The party also attacked External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid for “justifying” the US government’s global eavesdropping and surveillance programme, codenamed Prism.

“The thin veneer of justification offered that such massive surveillance was used to prevent terrorist attacks is absurd in the light of the fact that there is no single terrorist attack which has been shown to have been prevented by such surveillance,” it said.

Yang Jiechi here during which the two sides had a threadbare discussion on mutual concerns especially, the incursion of Chinese troops into the Depsang Valley on April 15.

The row was resolved after the withdrawal of Chinese troops from the area following a 20 day fracas. Though no agreements are expected to be signed during the visit, the two sides were expected to have advanced negotiations on the Border Defence Cooperation Agreement (BDCA), a new mechanism suggested by China last year for improving security at the borders, pending the final settlement of the territorial dispute.

Centre files affidavit in apex court on CBI autonomy

on details on how government plans to achieve its objectives. It notes that Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-IN) will be the nodal agency for all cyber security emergencies and would function round the clock. It also talks about operating sectoral CERTs and a National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre.

Other measures discussed in the policy include training five lakh cyber security professionals in the next five years, focus on the use of open source software for government services and proper validation of IT products and services used by government departments.

The last measure is particularly significant in the wake of the NSA leaks that reportedly reveals the US government works with the technology companies to spy on foreigners. In the leaked material unnamed NSA official claimed that without the help from technology companies, the ability of NSA to monitor and spy on foreigners would be greatly reduced.

New Delhi: Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday held consultations with senior party leaders on the formation of a new government in Jharkhand. The Congress is in talks with the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) for an alliance for the next Lok Sabha polls and for the formation of a coalition government in the state.

AICC General Secretary in-charge of Jharkhand BK Hariprasad said that the talks are in its final stage. Jharkhand has been under the President’s rule after the JMM-BJP alliance broke on January 18, 2013.

The alliance broke-up after the JMM withdrew support from the BJP government.

According to sources Congress is working to woo political parties so as to garner support for the next Lok Sabha elections. Two important Congress’s allies - DMK, TMC - have pulled out from the UPA and the party needs new partners to ensure victory in the 2014 elections.

The Congress is in talks with

NEW DELHI: Slamming BJP leader Sushma Swaraj for seeking dismissal of the Uttarkhand government over its handling of the flood tragedy, Congress today asked the Opposition to desist from playing politics over relief work.

Congress General Secretary Ambika Soni, who is AICC incharge for Uttarakhand, said that since MLAs and MPs have also now been made an integral part of the relief work under a new mechanism, “where is the question of politics. These MP and MLAs could belong to any political party.”

“I consider it very unfortunate as it comes at this stage, when we have just

begun to work on the second phase of relief work. We should resist politicising relief works.

“It is very unfortunate that top leaders make such comments because ev-

IT dept. serves notice to Munde over poll spending

In more trouble for senior BJP leader Gopinath Munde, facing an Election Commission show cause notice for his poll spending remark, the Income Tax department has issued a notice seeking his explanation within a week.

“We have served a notice to Munde”, confirmed an IT official on Wednesday.

He said that the department has sought explanation from Mr. Munde on his claims that he had spent Rs. 8 crore towards campaigning for Lok Sabha election he had contested from Beed constituency in 2009.

Mr. Munde had made the remark at a book release function, also attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, in Mumbai on June 27.

Taking cognisance of Mr. Munde’s claims, the Election Commission had slapped a show cause notice on the BJP’s deputy leader in the Lok Sabha.

“I spent Rs. 29,000 when I contested my first Assembly poll in 1980 but spent Rs. 8 crore in my last (2009

Pillai alias Javed Shaikh, Amjad Ali Rana and Zeeshan Johar — were allegedly planning attacks in Ahmedabad. It added Pranesh was using Ishrat, a Mumbai college student, as a shield to escape detection. The four were

the JMM for an alliance for the next Lok Sabha polls and for the formation of a coalition government in the state.

If Janata Dal (United) supports Congress-JMM alliance in Jharkhand, it will also open the possibility of JDU-Congress alli-

ance in the Centre. JDU has pulled out of the NDA after BJP anointed Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi as the campaign committee chief of the party. The JMM-Congress alliance would also help UPA government to pass several contentious bills in Parliament.

Uttarkhand relief: Congress asks opposition to desist from playing politics

Lok Sabha) election,” Mr. Munde had said. Read: Munde’s poll expenses: how the cookie crumbled While Mr. Munde, who is out of Mumbai, was unavailable for comment, sources close to him alleged that NCP chief Sharad Pawar and his nephew Ajit Pawar had hatched a conspiracy to malign Mr. Munde’s image.

“This is a conspiracy hatched by the Pawars. NCP wants to target Munde as he is a mass leader and the party perceives him as a threat.

“Asking Munde’s nephew Dhananjay to quit as BJP MLC yesterday is part of the process,” they claimed.

eryone is trying to do what best can be done... This is a massive tragedy that has happened to those who went there for pilgrimmage....It is not proper to politicise those sentiments...this was playing with those sentiments.

That was not the right statement,” Soni told reporters.

Swaraj had on Monday tweeted that Uttarakhand government should be dismissed for being inept and incompetent in handling the crisis in the state.

The war of words between BJP and Congress over the Uttarakhand tragedy has intensified in last two days with the main opposition party claiming that the country has witnessed the “big-

killed in cold blood “The three men were in touch with a Pakistanbased Lashkar-e-Taiba handler, Muzammil. The three were identified as terror suspects by the Subsidiary Intelligence Bureau during telephone interceptions. They were planning to unleash terror attacks in Ahmedabad, but Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi was not their target,” said a CBI official.

The Gujarat police crime branch had claimed the four had come to the state as part of the LeT’s plan to kill Modi.

CBI investigations have revealed that Ishrat and Pranesh were on their second visit to Gujarat when they were caught at Vasad in

gest failure” of the Centre and the Vijay Bahuguna government in dealing with the situation.

Taking a jibe at Rahul Gandhi, BJP spokesperson Shahnawaj Hussain had said yesterday, “the biggest VIP of the country went there (Uttarakhand) while our leaders were stopped”. Soni, however countered it saying that Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde had disapproved of the visits of VIPs during the tragedy as that time rescue operation were more important but there are changes in the situation now. “Nobody is stopping anyone’s visits but they should realise that they will have to work there under difficult conditions. There are not motorable roads at present so that anyone can drive in the area in a taxi,” she said.

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Notice issued to CBI on Jagdish Tytler’s plea

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court today issued notice to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on an appeal of Congress leader Jagdish Tytler against a trial court order reopening a case against him, related to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Justice SP Garg, seeking response from the agency, also issued notice to the complainant, Lakhwinder Kaur, and asked her to reply within four weeks. The matter was posted for September 18.

Justice Garg also declined to stay the investigation ordered by the trial court against Mr Tytler, saying: “Only investigation was ordered and this court will not stop the investigation.”

Most Recent On April 10, a trial court ordered that the case be reopened against Mr Tytler and also set aside the CBI closure report, which gave the Delhi Congress leader a clean chit on the ground that there was “no evidence” against him.

Mr Tytler, in his appeal, said: “The trial court order is contrary to the Criminal Procedure Code. The

CBI files chargesheet, says Ishrat Jahan encounter was ‘fake’

AHMEDABAD: The CBI has filed its first chargesheet in the Ishrat Jahan ‘fake encounter’ case on Wednesday in Gujarat high court. Ishrat Jahan and three others were killed by Gujarat police nine years ago.

In its chargesheet, the agency accused cops DG Vanzara, Tarun Barot, JR Parmar, NK Amin accused of murder, conspiracy and destruction of evidence.

The CBI also said that Ishrat Jahan was not a terrorist, but the three others killed along with her in a fake encounter on the outskirts of Ahmedabad nine years ago had alleged terror links, the CBI has concluded in its chargesheet filed before the court.

The CBI has said the three — Pranesh

DAILY ZABARWAN TIMES

Vadodara.

The CBI chargesheet includes statements of nine police officers, who were part of the staged encounter. The statements, recorded under section 164 of CrPC in a Mumbai court, prove sequence of events in the case.

A crime branch official has revealed in his statement that weapons planted on the four — an AK 47 and two 9 mm pistols — after the encounter were sourced from the IB office in Gujarat. CBI also has evidence to prove the involvement of IB joint director Rajinder Kumar in this case. A crime branch official has revealed that Kumar, along with Gujarat IPS officers DG Vanzara and PP Pandey, came to Arham Farm outside the city to question Rana.

At Kotarpur waterworks, where the encounter was staged, crime branch officers had fought with each other when a police inspector and a commando refused to fire at the four.

Two of their colleagues then snatched their weapons and fired at them.

method and mode of investigation by a probe agency is the absolute prerogative of the agency. It is not for the court to direct the agency about which witness should be examined by it.”

Seeking that the trial court order be quashed in the 29-year-old case, the plea said: “The settled position of law is that a direction for investigation can be given only if an offence is prima facie found to have been committed or a person’s involvement is prime facie established. But direction to investigate whether any person has committed an offence or not cannot be legally given.”

The trial court’s order came on a plea filed by riot victim Lakhwinder Kaur, who sought a further probe into the killing of three people near

Gurdwara Pul Bangash in old Delhi.

Mr Tytler is accused of instigating a mob that led to the murder of three men who had taken shelter at the gurdwara on November 1, 1984.

The mob attack was part of violence against Sikhs after the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on October 31 that year.

The trial court had also directed the CBI to examine witnesses and people who claimed to have information about the riots.

The court, setting aside the magisterial court order that accepted the CBI’s closure report, had said: “The order of the trial court accepting the closure report is set aside. The CBI is directed to conduct further investigation in the light of aforesaid facts and to record the statements of witnesses, who, it had come to know during the investigation itself, are claiming/ shown/named to be witnesses of the incident.”

The probe agency had sought the dismissal of the victim’s plea, saying it had established that Mr Tytler was not present at Gurudwara Pul Bangash on Nov 1, 1984.

NDMA says around 100 Badrinath pilgrims await evacuation

Rescue operations at Badrinath in flood-ravaged Uttarakhand have not ended yet, as about hundred pilgrims and 200 local people are still to be evacuated, a disaster management official said on Wednesday.

“Still we have 100-odd yatris who need to be evacuated from Badrinath. The yatris have come from Dehradun, Nainital and Pithoragarh, and a lot of them claimed to have come to visit Badrinath,” Vinay Kajla, joint advisor at National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), said.

Besides the yatris, there are about 200 residents of Mana village in Badrinath who are to be evacuated.

“There are about 200 villagers to evacuate from Mana in Badrianth,

mostly women and children. The bridge has broken, so we will need to evacuate the yatris and locals people today (Wednesday) itself,” Kajla told a news channel.

The incessant and intense rains that hit Uttarakhand over three days from June 14 triggered flash floods and landslides, leading to hundreds of deaths, and hundreds have since been missing.

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