Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 05 January

C M Y K

C M Y K

SUNDAY

January 05 | 2014 | 03 Rabi-Al-Awwal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

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

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Meets Governor

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Delhi should discuss Musharraf Formula with Kashmiris

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Peerzada, some BOSE officials in dock Crime Branch inquiry confirms copying

Srinagar, Jan 4: Crime Branch Kashmir has conducted preliminary inquiry vide number PV-13/2012 into the allegation that then Minister for Education, Peerzada Muhammad Syed, abused his position as Minister to get his step son passed in the As per the inquiry report, the candidate namely Inam Souban Bhat son of Parvez Ahmed Bhat (registration number 08NKM802929) appeared in the Secondary School Examination, session Annual ,Regular 2009 under roll number 228211 at AlAmeen Higher Secondary School Humhama. The Crime Branch report states that Mr Tariq Geelani was superintendent and Mr Imtiyaz Asghar Bijal was the deputy superintendent of the examination centre. The candidate was the student of a nearby school namely Vision Public

School Humhama. Shri Mehraju-Din Zargar was Deputy Director (Academics) of J&K State

Rashid asks Sayed to step down Srinagar, Jan 4: Awami Itthihaad Party (AIP) Saturday termed lodging of FIR into alleged copying scam involving son of senior Congress leader and a state Minster Pirzada Mohammad Syeed a good step.

Party President Er Rashid in a statement to KNS maintained that delay in lodging FIR speaks See Rashid on Pg. 11 Board of School Education at See Peerzada on Pg. 11

Cancellation of admission of tainted GMC students

BOPEE seeks clarification from CB Srinagar, Jan 4: Before it could proceed on cancellation of admissions of some tainted candidates who got admissions through paper leak in common Entrance Test (CET)—2012, the Board of Professional Entrance Examination (BOPEE) has sought clarification from the Crime Branch (CB) on some vital issues with regard to the list of 12 candidates submitted by it last week.

“We have received the list of some candidates but we have sought clarification from the Crime Branch which I think must have been clarified so far,” R D Sharma, Chairman BOPEE told KNS.

Source s in the crime branch said that BOPEE may have sought a copy of report and other evidences against these students who are about to face the cancellation of admissions under BOPEE Act. “BOPEE will have to undergo by its own Act. So under that ACT, they may issued show cause notices to the students who can otherwise approach the court and get stay on BOPEE’s cancellation of admission orders,” a senior officer in the crime branch told KNS pleading anonymity.

On December 30, the Crime Branch had submitted a list of 12 candidates who according to See BOPEE on Pg. 11

‘Singh desperate to resolve K-issue’: Dulat

‘K-issue resolution key to progress’: Sagar New Delhi, Jan 4: A day after, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said an “important breakthrough” on the settlement of Kashmir issue “appeared in sight at one time, former chief of premier Intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), A.S.Dulat Saturday said that Manmohan Singh put all his efforts to resolve Kashmir issue from past ten years, however certain compulsions spoiled his game.

“No one can deny this fact that Kashmir is an issue and our Prime Minister himself asserted

that it needs to be resolved. Pakistan should change its mindset that India is not serious in resolving this long-pending issue. It is the desire of our PM that this issue gets resolved,” Dulat told Srinagar based news gathering agency CNS adding that it was unfortunate that there was change in guard in Pakistan when breakthrough appeared in sight on K-issue.

Former RAW chief said that a particular group in Pakistan feels that it should wait and stop raising Kissue with India till elections See Sagar on Pg. 11

Northern Army Commander for zero tolerance to HR violations Srinagar, Jan 04: Two days visit of Lieutenant General Sanjiv Chachra, the Northern Army Commander to the Kashmir Valley concluded today, setting the agenda for the Army deployed in Kashmir, for the year 2014. The key components of his deliberations and directions were ‘zero tolerance to the human right violations’ and ‘sustaining peace in the state irrespective of the threats’. He emphasised on zero tolerance to human right violations and exercise of utmost restraint during operations, wher-

ever civilian lives and property are involved. He lauded the J&K Police for their role in the successful joint operations with no collateral damage and awarded Commendation Cards to two J&K Police Officers and one SPO during his visit to forward areas.

His meeting with the Honourable Chief Minister of J&K, Shri Omar Abdullah on 02 Jan 2014, was very fruitful and issues critical to the futuristic security scenario were discussed. The Army Commander assured the people See Army Commander on Pg. 11

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11 Sunday, 05 January 2014 From Front Page........

Peerzada.........

that period of time.

According to CNS, “Crime Branch Kashmir took and preserved all the documents pertaining to the said matter from State Board of School Education. On perusal, the answer sheets were found written in two handwriting indicating that the wrong answers of the candidates have been corrected by somebody. The answer sheets of the candidate were sent by Crime Branch Kashmir to Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) Srinagar to ascertain as to who has corrected these wrong answers. The FSL Srinagar provided a report wherein it is stated that the handwriting on the Geography and Mathematics papers is of Deputy Superintendent Imtiyaz Asghar Bijal and handwriting on Urdu paper is of Deputy Director (Academics) State Board of School Education, Mehraj-u-Din Zargar.”

A Crime Branch official on the condition of anonymity told CNS that since the revelations made by FSL Srinagar in its report were embarrassing for the Minister and the government as a whole, so Crime Branch prepared a detailed report and sent it directly to Chief Minister. Senior Superintendent of Police Crime Branch, Syed Aashiq Hussain Bukhari told CNS that an FIR vide number 1/2014 under sections 419,420,467,468,120B RPC 5/2 Corruption act has been registered against the accused. A Crime Branch official said that law will take its own course as nobody is above law. “In coming days, certain BOSE officials will be summoned and action would be initiated against them under rules,” he said.

It may be recalled that a leading newspaper had brought to fore the rot in state’s educational system by exposing how the then Education Minister in connivance with the officials of Board of School Education (BOSE) helped his son qualify the matriculation examination through unfair means in 2009.

Rashid........

itself about the political pressure that crime branch had been facing since last two years.

He said, “The Chief Minister must explain that why it took two years to lodge the FIR ,when the report was submitted to him within seven days after that scam had surfaced .lodging of FIR though late and despite political pressures proves that crime branch couldn’t close the case as the evidences were concrete to confirm the involvement of minister’s son and board officials .”He asked Peerzada Mohammad Syeed to step down immediately and if he doesn’t have moral courage to resign, Omar Abdullah must show some morality and seriousness to throw him out. He alleged that neither Peerzada’s son is the first blue-eyed person to misuse the authority of his father nor will be the last as almost all political leaders and bureaucrats have inherited these qualities of misusing their authority and power at the cast of common masses.

Daily

Police works out Sopore boy’s murder case in ‘record time’ Arrests man from his neighbourhood Srinagar, January 04: Sopore police cracked the blind murder case of a 15 year old boy who was found dead in an orchid yesterday. The accused has been arrested.

Yesterday Sopore police was informed by some locals that a body mauled by street dogs is lying in an apple orchard at Gousiaabad Sopore. Police alongwith FSL team rushed to the spot, found that the body was having deep incised wounds on his chest and abdomen and its other body parts were mauled by street dogs. The body was later identified as of 15 yrs old Dawood Nabi

S/o Ghulam Nabi Wagay resident of Mahrajpora Sopore. Since it was evident that he has been murdered by some unknown person a case FIR No 2/2014 under section 302/ RPC was registered. The body was recovered from the spot, besides, a sharp edged knife was also found on the scene of occurrence. The autopsy of the body was conducted at SDH Sopore. Initial investigation revealed that the deceased was taken away from his home by a family acquaintances Reyaz Ahmad Sheikh son Ghulam Ahmad Sheikh resident of Tragpora

Rafiabad on 02.01.2014.

After autopsy the body was handed over to the NOKs for burial. Manhunt was launched for the suspect Reyaz Ah. Sheikh who was arrested today with the assistance of both technical as well as human inputs.

During questioning the accused revealed that he was of the notion that deceased Dawood Nabi had developed illicit relations with his step daughter and on this animosity he took the accused to nearby orchard and killed him by stabbing him several times in his chest and abdomen.

OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN DISTRICT RURAL HEALTH SOCIETY/ DISTRICT DEV. COMMISSIONER BARAMULLA

Subject: Selection list of Candidates under RBSK (NHRM) for the post of MEDICAL OFFICER (AYUSH)-District Baramulla.

Ref: Court order of Hon'ble High Court of J&K Srinagar dated:- 30-12-2013 in LPA No. 112/2013 C/W Connected appeals titled Syed Sibtul Hassan V/s State & Others.

Pursuant to above and on the basis of recommendations of selection committee and in view of the merit obtained by candidates both in academic and in viva voce a selection list of meritorious candidates has been prepared for the post of Medical Officer (AYUSH) under RBSK (NRHM) District Baramulla on contractual basis is shown in Annexure-A. The selected candidates shall have to produce the following original testimonials at the time of submitting the joining report in the office of Vice Chairman District Rural Health Society (Chief Medical Officer Baramulla) within a period of 05 days from issuance of this notification. a) PRC(State Subject Certificate) b) Qualification Certificate/marks card of Degree/Diploma in relevant stream. c) Date of Birth Certificate. d) Other qualifying examinations if any.

ZABARWAN TIMES

Delhi should discuss Musharraf Formula with Kashmiris: Kamal Srinagar, Jan 04: National Conference Additional General Secretary Dr. Shiekh Mustafa Kamaal has appreciated Prime Minister Dr. Man Mohan Singh for nominating Rahul Gandhi as his successor for the PM post.

Dr Kamaal while addressing party workers at Nawai-Subh Zero Bridge, said Rahul will succeed in strengthening secular and democratic image of the country and the down trodden classes of the society will be benefited most. Reacting on the Musharf formula part of the PM’s press conference, Dr. Kamaal said resolution of Kashmir issue will strengthen peace process in the entire region of South Asia and Musharf formula can form a basis for bringing both countries

together for finding a final solution. He said that Kashmir issue should be resolved keeping insight interests of the Kashmiri people first as they are basic party and the Musharf formula can be discussed thread bear in this connection. Dr Kamaal said that State population are in love with the original shape and size of the autonomous status enjoyed earlier by the State and cannot be convinced without restoration of constitutional position of the State legislature, flag and the administrative status.

It is believed that Musharf formula deals with all such basics. He said that Prime Minister Man Moham Singh having realized the formula as beneficial and having also said that General Musharf’s exit

PM: Centre committed to IT sector growth Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 04: Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has said the Centre is committed to providing an enabling environment to encourage further growth in the Information Technology sector in view of its phenomenal growth in the country. Speaking after laying the foundation stone of the Tata Consultancy

Service Global Learning Centre, in Thiruvananthapuram, Dr. Singh said it is one of our national priorities to impart skills training to the young men and women on a very large scale. Complimenting TCS, the Prime Minister said Centre has taken several initiatives in this area and some of them have involved partnership with the private sector.

from the post of head of Pakistan government proved a stumbling blockade in the process of resolution of the basic issue, it will be in the interest of the State population that pre 1953 position is restored and also steps are taken to implemented it on both sides of the dividing line pending Pakistan is politically strong and able to play its part in the negotiations.

He said that National Conference will under all circumstances, play its role in the process of restoration of internal autonomy, which is cherished most by the Kashmiris. Such a development will also add to the prestige of the country besides finding final resolution of the decades olds twisted Kashmir issue.

CM meets Governor Jammu, Jan 4: Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, met N. N. Vohra, Governor, here at Raj Bhavan, on Saturday.

During their over hour long discussions the Chief Minister briefed the Governor about various important matters relating to development, security and governance.

BOPEE.........

it had got admission in MBBS through CET paper purchase fraud to the High Court and a copy was forwarded to the BOPEE for necessary action.

Later the High Court had asked the BOPEE to submit Action taken Report (ATR) by or before the next date of hearing of the matter. Though BOPEE is likely to cancel the admissions of the 12 candidates against whom the Crime Branch has established a case of fraud but sources told KNS that the Board may issue show cause notices to these candidates before proceeding ahead against them. “Besides these 12, the Crime Branch has almost established a case against six students and investigations are on in other four students,” a senior officer of the Crime Branch told KNS.

Sagar........

are over and new government is formed in India. “Such a mindset of this particular group in Pakistan proves disastrous and unhealthy. Pakistan should not wait and waste time but it should move ahead and find ways and means to settle down K-issue,” he said.

Dulat told CNS that it is the burning desire of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to resolve Kashmir issue amicably with Pakistan. “Singh is sincere and from past decade he has been putting all his efforts to have better relations with Pakistan by resolving K-issue,” he said adding that if the visit of Singh to Pakistan materializes, it will give impetus to relations between two countries.

Meanwhile, welcoming the statement made by Prime Minister of India, senior National Conference leader Ali Muhammad Sagar told CNS that the resolution of K-issue will pave way for better relations between India and Pakistan. “Both India and Pakistan including Kashmir will progress by leaps and bounds in case K-issue is resolve,” Sagar said adding that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has been repeatedly saying that the resolution of K-issue is in the interest of both India and Pakistan.

Army Commander..........

residing in the isolated and inhospitable areas along the Line of Control of all kinds of support by Army during the winters.

During this visit, the Army Commander, along with Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh, Chinar Corps Commander visited the forward areas and formation headquarters in Kupwara and Baramulla as also in the hinterland wherein he was briefed on military matters and hardships faced by the Awaam due to the closed passes and inhospitable weather. He directed that every kind of assistance must be provided to the people. While visiting the Counter Insurgency Force Headquarters at Sharifabad and Awantipora, the deliberations of the Northern Army Commander revolved around the ‘Winter Imdad’ to the Awaam residing in the hinterland during the period of Chilai Kalan. He also directed that the disaster relief programmes for the landslide and avalanche prone areas must be worked out to assist the civil administration to manage any eventuality that may arise. He appreciated the efforts of the Army personnel located near Drugmulla who averted a major fire incident in village Shadipora and saved precious human lives and property. He also awarded the prestigious Army Commander’s Commendation Cards to two J&K Police Officers from Handwara, Tral and one SPO from Budgam for their bravery and dedication during counter terrorist operations, setting a fine example of synergy between the security forces. He congratulated the security forces for successful conduct of various joint operations.

No: DDCB/NRHM/2014/3318-24 Dated: 04-01-2014

Sd/- Chairman, District Rural Health Society (District Dev. Commissioner) Baramulla

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Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

SRINAGAR | SUNDAY

Wani conducts aerial survey of snow bound areas

Initiatives for showcasing the beauty of Kashmir and its diversified culture under way: G.A. Mir

Essential Services and Supplies to be restored on war footing basis BHADERWAH, JANUARY 4:

Minister for R&B and Mechanical Engineering Mr. Abdul Majid Wani, alongwith MLA Bhaderwah Mr. Mohammad Sharief Niaz today conducted aerial survey of snow bound areas of the Doda district and also addressed a public meeting at Gandoh.

The Minister also convened an officers meeting at Bhaderwah and reviewed the post snowfall scenario in the area besides received brief about the restoration of essential supplies and services in the district.

District Development CommisMr. Wani expressed dissatisfacProgress made in restoration of sioner, Doda Mr. Mubarak Singh apprised the minister about the measures taken by tion over slow pace of construction work services and supplies by different departthe District administration in restoration on Bani-Basohli- Bhaderwah Inter-Dis- ments were reviewed in the meeting of utilities, supplies and services in the trict road, He directed BRO to speed up which include, restoration of Power supthe pace of work and ensure its comple- ply, Drinking water, Roads and Health etc snow bound and hilly areas.

Earlier Minister for R&B and MeMr. Wani directed the officers tion within shortest possible time, beto redouble their efforts and take restora- sides also directed them to redouble their chanical Engineering Mr. Abdul Majid tion work of supplies and services on war efforts in clearance of snow from the vital Wani and MLA Bhaderwah Mr. Mohd. footing basis so that relief is provided to Doda-Bhaderwah link road as soon as Sharief Niaz conducted an aerial survey of the people living in snow bound and hilly possible. Minister also directed the of- the snow bound areas . While addressing areas of the region. He said that monitor- ficers to submit their reports regarding the public meeting at Gandoh (Bhalessa) ing of restoration work should be made any damages suffered due to the snow Mr Wani reiterated the commitment of on daily basis and any sort of carelessness fall as per the prescribed format of SDRF. the coalition Government in restoration He also directed the officers to keep their of supplies and services in each part of / low performance will not be tolerated. action plan ready for dealing sortAgency of the District. He said that Government Lone News CA&PD Agency Kangan Khanany News Ganderbal The Minister also directed weather conditions. Mr. Wani is fully aware about the problems being Department to ensure dumping ad- extreme Gulzar NewsofAgency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora impressed upon all the Officers to make faced by the people living in the area and equate quantity of ration Bhaderwah TariqinNews Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta and other snowbound areas. Regarding all out efforts in restoration of services efforts on war footing basis are being and supplies as the people living inNews snowAgency madeLal to provide Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah Chowk all the basic amenities shortage of K-Oil , the Minister directed bound and remote areasSikendar are facing ex- Agency to theLal people in such extreme weather News Agency Lal Chowk News Chowk the concerned officersAbdullah to ensure adequate treme weather condition. conditions. stock and supply of K-Oil in theNews area. Agency Gupkari Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan

Zabarwan Times is available at

Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora Bhat News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency Kunzar Dar News Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal Reshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Pattan Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund Jeelani News Agency Baramulla G.M News Agency Sopore for industries and Commerce, Mr. Shah News Agency Sultan News Agency Handwara SajjadKupwara Ahmad Kichloo today said that 18Langate new Industrial Estates,Sheikh 9 Younis News Agency News Agency Islamabad each in Kashmir and Jammu diviReshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agency Tral sions are being development in Turray News Agency Tral Badru News Agency Bijbehara various districts of the State. He Rahi News Agency Kulgam Malik News Agency Arwani said about 2,523 kanls of land Rah News Agency Byepass News Agency Kargil valued at about Rs. 82 crore Shaheen in

Releases calendars of tourism, SKICC, RSGC

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 04: Minister for Tourism, Ghulam Ahmad Mir Saturday said that J&K Tourism is gaining momentum and popularity at National as well as international level and every step being taken for motivating tourists to visit the state is proving fruitful and significant.

The Minister was addressing an impressive function at Royal Spring Golf Course (RSGC) here today organized by Tourism department.The Minister released tourism calendar featuring future activities of Tourism department besides calendar prepared by Royal Golf Spring and SKICC were also released by the Minister. He also launched the website of RSGC, www. royalspringsgolfcourse.in.DirectorTourism, Kashmir, Joint Director Information Kashmir, MD J&K Cable Car Corporation, Director SKICC, MD JKTDC, all CEO’s of Tourist Development Authorities, Hoteliers, Tour and Travel Operators attended the function.Mr. Mir said that government has taken various initiatives for showcasing the beauty of Kashmir and its diversified culture. “The main objective of projecting the features of tourism activities is to multiply the employment avenues for unemployed youth of the state”, he added.He said that government is boosting sports and adventure tourism in length and breadth of the state involving enthusiastic youth from all walks of life.The Minister hoped that year 2014 will be best in respect of tourism and asked people to play their economical conditions.

18 Industrial Estates 9 each in Jammu, Kashmir coming up to boost Industrialization: Kichloo Two BioTech Parks also in offering

JAMMU, JANUARY 04Reiterating present coalition government’s resolve to boost Industrial activities for socio-economic transformation of the state with main focus on employment generation, the Minister of State

Kashmir division and about 5637 kanlas of land valuing about Rs. 87 crore in Jammu division is being acquired for this purpose on war-footing basis. Speaking to media persons, Mr. Kichloo said that new places identified for developing Industrial Estates in Kashmir included Vessu in Anantnag district, Ashmuji-Anantnag, Ompora-Budgam, Khanmoh Phase-III, Malwan-Kulgam, Mehmood Abad-

Dooru, Redbug-Kupwara and Changrathang-Kargil whereas the new Industrial Estate in Jammu division are being established in IGC Samba Phase-III, Lamberi-Rajouri,

Surankote-Poonch, Beoli-Doda, Nibla-Reasi, Majalta-Udhampur, Heeranagar-Kathua, Dambra-Billawar and Pocchal-Kishtwar.He said at present there are 53 Industrial Estate spread over 4,442 acres of land in various parts of the state which are managed by SICOP, SIDCO and Directorate of Industries. “While SICOP is primarily promoting Small Scale Industrial Sector by way of providing raw material and marketing support to the entrepreneurs, the SIDCO has medium and large scale industries.

Mr. Kichloo said besides setting up new Industrial Estates, the existing ones are also being upgraded in a phased manner to provide better infrastructural support to the en-

Holistic programme for development of rural areas undertaken: Sagar KATHUA, JANUARY 04: Maintaining that the Government has undertaken a holistic programme for ensuring the development of rural and far flung areas, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar said that the people living in these areas should come forward and avail maximum benefit of the schemes meant for their socio-economic development. The Minister was addressing a huge gathering at Basantpur in Kathua district.

Director Rural Development Jammu, Mr. Shafiq Ahmad Raina, senior officers of the department and district administration who were present.

Mr. Sagar said that several flagship programmes have been undertaken for the under privileged and weaker sections of the society and now the onus lies on them to come forward and get benefited from these. He said that these schemes have been instrumental in changing the rural landscape besides providing much needed employment to the people at the doorsteps. “The people should come forward and avail the benefit of vari-

ous schemes like MG NREGA, IAY, NBA and the Government has put in place an effective mechanism to ensure that the benefits percolate to the genuine beneficiaries’’, he added.Maintaining that the development has been registered in every sphere of life, the Minister said that special thrust has been on the vital sectors of health, education besides providing effective road connectivity to the villages, augmentation of water supply schemes and power has also been done.Referring to the recent statements of a political party, the Minister said that they are myo-

DDC Samba convenes public grievance camp SAMBA, JANUARY 04District Development Commissioner, R.K Varma on Saturday conducted an extensive tour of village Sandhi and Rai of Samba District to take stock redress the grievances of the people besides reviewing status of ongoing development works in the area.

The DDC was accompanied by Tehsildar Samba, District Social Welfare Officer, Chief Horticulture Officer, Assistant Director Food Supply and heads of various departments.

The DDC convened public grievances camp at Sandhi and Rai village, wherein people in large number including Sarpanchs , Panchs participated in the Darbar and projected their demands and problems pertaining to, repairing of roads/road connectivity to adjoining areas, Upgradation of middle school to high school at Sandhi, the availability of drinking water, repairing of Water supply pipes, Passenger shed at Rai, Cutting Tailoring Centres in the villages, regular ration supply, Passenger Shed at the beginning of Ria, Lanes and Drains problem etc.

The DDC listened to the demands and problems being faced by the people patiently and assured them that all their issues would be redressed in a time bound manner.

He instructed all the heads of the departments to work with missionary zeal and dedication for resolving the issues of people leaving no space for complains.

pic and they should acknowledge the fact that the present government has ensured that the power percolates to the grass root level by putting in place a vibrant Panchayati Raj system and empowering the same with the powers of 14 vital departments. Appealing the people to come forward and avail the maximum benefit of the welfare schemes undertaken by the government for ensuring holistic development of the state, besides elevation of the economic profile of the people, the Minister said that by doing so they would be exhibiting a participatory role in the day to day governance.

trepreneurs adding that upgradation of Industrial Estates Khanmoh Phase-II and III, Industrial Estate Gangyal and Bari-Brahamna at a cost of Rs. 32.57 crore is in full swing. Mr. Kichoo said that in order to provide Industrial Infrastructure to Information Technology entrepreneurs of the state a modern I.T Park spread over 150 kanals of land in Industrial Estates Ompora is being established shortly for which MOU has already been signed by the SIDCO and I.T department.

Similarly, two Biotech parks over 80 kanals of land in Industrial Estates of Ompora Budgam and Ghati Kathua are being set-up very soon to promote technology based industries in the state.

DDC reviews preparations for Pulse Polio Programme KATHUA, JANUARY 04- To ensure the successful implementation of Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization Programme (IPPI) with special emphasis on high risk areas for the year 2014 of Kathua District DDC, Kathua Jitendra K Singh chaired a meeting of officers here at conference hall in DC Office complex today.Chief Medical Officer, Kathua Ajay Khajuria laid a detailed plan of IPPI Programme before the house.

Threadbare discussion on the planning to execute the programme was discussed. The programme is scheduled to be held in first phase i.e on January 19, 2014 across the state alongwith other parts of the country.

Pertinent to mention here that the immunization programme will target all the children aged (0-5 years) with special emphasis on children falling under high risk areas viz migratory population especially class of labourers working in brick kilns, slums, gujjar bakerwals and floating population of labourers coming from other regions.The targeted population (0-5 years) for the District Kathua is 90,034 covering all five medical blocks of the District viz Parole, Bani, Billawar, Basohli and Hiranagar. For immunization of the targeted population a total number of 563 booths will be established and special teams will cover the under high risk areas to provide immunization under the programme.

DDC Jitendra K Singh exhorted upon the officers to coordinate and work with missionary zeal for the success of the programme. He impressed upon the officers of ICDS, Education and Health department to work in coordination to achieve cent percent immunization in the district. He also called upon the medical officers to re check the field validation of high risk areas so that no child is left out from immunization drive.

He also called for involvement of panchayat representatives for maximum participation of rural children’s.

Govt committed to remove all kinds of encroachments in Dal Lake: M. Akbar Lone Rakh-e-Aarath colony home for Dal Dwellers Panoramic beauty of Dal Lake to be preserved SRINAGAR, JANUARY 04: Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone Saturdaysaid that a massive project of rehabilitation of Dal dwellers is under implementation by way of development of Rakh-e-Aarath colony. He said most of the works have been executed like sewerage, drainage, construction of roads, allotment of space for parks, hospital, school, water, power and only few percent of work is to be executed to ensure early and speedy rehabilitation of Dal dwellers. The Minister was addressing a high level

officers meeting on the concluding day of his week in Winter Secretariat here today. Secretary Housing department, Vice Chairman, LAWDA, Special Secretary Winter Secretariat, officers of allied Engineering Wings besides representatives of Dal dwellers attended the meeting. Mr. Lone said that world famous Dal Lake is most precious nature’s gift and every step is being taken to preserve its panoramic beauty for the generation to come, adding that all kinds of encroachments in Dal Lake will be removed at any cost and Government is committed to complete the work in a phased manner.Discussing the compensation component to Dal dwellers, Mr. Lone asked officers to simplify the procedure and clear the out standings if any, within shortest possible time.

It was decided in the meeting that a person holding a ration card

with 6 members will be allotted one plot, above 6 members two plots, above 12, three and above 18 members, four plots by the Government.

Introduction of single window system was also decided for processing the case of a habitant of Dal to make him able to obtain plot or compensation.

The Minister asked Dal dwellers to select 2-3 persons out of their groups for working jointly with government functionaries for making the system of allotment of plots easier. Among others issues of the Valley, the meeting discussed the matter related to execution of various development projects of Hajin Sonawari. The Minister directed the concerned officers to take earnest steps for improving drainage, sewerage system in the area. He also asked them to improve the drinking water and power supply in the villages of Hajin Sonawari.

05. 01 .2014

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19

Plans for a party or group gathering of some kind could take up much of your time and energy, Aries. You might have a lot of letters to write, phone calls to make, or other communications to take care of, but this is likely to prove to be a great excuse for getting in touch with your friends. Today could prove to be a kind of party-before-the-party, which is right up your alley.

Enjoy your day!

Taurus April 20-May 20

Though you might wake up today feeling a little feverish, Taurus, as the day progresses you’ll be your old self again.

You should be putting a lot of effort into work, particularly mundane chores and tasks that you’d rather not do. Get them out of the way and then move on to projects that interest you and can fire your ambition and motivation. Work hard in the morning and enjoy the rest of the day.

Gemini May 21-June 21

This is a great day to start any project that concerns writing, acting, or speaking, Gemini. Your creative energies should be flowing freely and abundantly today, and you should enjoy the rush of new ideas that keep popping into your head. A number of stimulating conversations with close friends should keep your energies churning. Expect to spend a lot of time on the phone, or perhaps in the car dropping in on these friends.

Cancer June 22-July 22

If you aren’t already into real estate, gardening, or interior decorating, Cancer, today you might discover a talent for one or all of these fields and decide to pursue it. You might have it in mind as a possible future source of income, and therefore you could consider looking into getting some formal training in the field. Which one you choose, if any, is of course up to you. Consider them all carefully and then decide which is best.

Leo

July 23-August 22 Your energy and enthusiasm for life should be operating at a very high level today, Leo. You may therefore want to get together with some of your friends, and might even organize an impromptu social event of some kind. Exciting news and stimulating conversation should keep your mind busy for a long time. At some point you’ll want to work off some of that physical energy, perhaps by taking a brisk walk or another kind of workout. Enjoy your day.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

A chance to make some extra money could come today through someone you know slightly, Virgo, perhaps from a social event you both once attended. You might not be totally familiar with the type of work involved, but today your mind is sharp and so you’ll probably pick it up quickly. The only downside is that you could work harder than you need to, and therefore there’s a danger of tiring yourself out. Take care of yourself.

Libra

September 23-October 23 A social event or group meeting could ignite your enthusiasm about new goals, Libra. These goals may involve giving you a chance to use your creative talents as well as enjoy the companionship and camaraderie of your fellow group members.

Therefore, whatever events are scheduled today might all prove to be both satisfying and enjoyable for you. Don’t hesitate!

Move on ahead, do something worthwhile, and enjoy yourself.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 Today, Scorpio, you might begin work on a project that you’ve wanted to do for a long time. This may be career related or personal, but either way it should advance you in whatever direction that you want to go. The only downside is that you might be a bit too hard on yourself and far too critical of your work. Try to be objective and view your own work as fairly as you would view the work of others.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Today, Sagittarius, you’re expanding your horizons. You and a friend could plan a vacation that you’re really excited about. It could involve a trip by air, perhaps across the ocean.

The trip is mainly for pleasure, but it probably involves a place you’ve always been interested in and are anxious to see, so it’s an educational trip as well. You have a lot to look forward to. Make the most of it and have fun.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Some good news may reach your ears via the grapevine regarding your career. This might involve a raise in salary, Capricorn, or it could be new benefits, new profit sharing plans, or anything that may involve investments or money that comes your way above and beyond a paycheck. Contracts or other legal papers that are executed today should definitely work in your favor, so if you’ve been putting off signing any, do it today!

Aquarius January 20-February 18

A new and exciting potential love relationship could pop into your life today, Aquarius. This is apt to be the kind of instant attraction that sets your nerves tingling and your blood boiling! Whether or not you decide to pursue this attraction, of course, depends on your situation, but whatever you decide, you’re likely to enjoy feeling the thrill of it today. Therefore, make sure you look your best when you go out! You’ll be glad you did.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 Today, Pisces, you should be feeling especially energetic and enthusiastic. Therefore, this is a great day to start a new enterprise, perhaps involving your home, or just about any kind of life enhancement. More than one opportunity could present itself to you. One could entail creative activities and the other might be more mundane. Undoubtedly, whether you decide to take both or only one, you’re going to be busy for a while. Work hard!

Editorial/Opinion The Daily

Zabarwan Times Sunday, 05 January 2014

Indo Pak relations- Let 2014 be a milestone

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he desire to visit Pakistan by P r i m e M i n i s t e r D r.

Manmohan Singh and his admission that the solution of Kashmir Problem was in the offing some time back indicates the commitment of both the countries to solve this long standing issue amicably and in a cordial and friendly atmosphere . He also admitted that a lot of progress was achieved but due to the disturbances in Pakistan which came in the way of solution, the two countries could not reach to any destination point. His statement in this regard has a great importance and it proves that the efforts on governmental and track II levels are on to address this issue which has always come in the way of cordial relations between the two countries.

India and Pakistan know that unless they carve out a solution to this issue which has assumed international importance, peace will always elude this part of the world and no good neighbourly relations are possible between the two countries. The statement of the Prime Minister is also indicative of the fact that irrespective of the party politics everybody at the helm of affairs in both the countries understands the consequences and implications of not addressing this vital issue and solve it as soon as possible.

As the international community is also very much concerned about this problem and has once and again advised the two countries to solve it, hence the two Asian giants, both nuclear powers should take concrete steps without further wastage of any time to settle the Kashmir issue. This issue has not only created a wide between the two nations but has resulted in three wars in the past and has consumed thousands of innocent lives and property worth billions.

The animosities have left behind scars of destruction, pain, agony and grief on both the sides which suffered heavily in these wars. These wars also weakened the two countries economically and derailed their progress to large extent.

Now the time has come when both the countries should understand the call of the time and should take solid strides forward to cement their relations but that cannot be possible unless the Kashmir issue is prioritized and solved.

If that is not done this issue will snowball into one more war which will be disastrous for the whole world as both of them possess nuclear armament which can create Hiroshima, Nagasaki, like situation. One can only hope that good will prevail on the leadership of both the countries and this year proves to be a mile stone in Indo-Pak relations and settlement of all outstanding issues including the Kashmir issue. Let 2014 be a turning point in Indo Pak relations and let both countries strive for peace, prosperity and development for the people of the sub-continent and the world at large.

Daily

ZABARWAN TIMES 9

Sunday, 05 January 2014

Empowering Women, Nurturing Children Achievements of Ministry of Women and Child Development

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he Ministry of Women and Child Development is the nodal ministry for all issues concerning women and children. The Ministry is moving forward towards a paradigm shift in its approach to social sector issues which were earlier welfare oriented but now look at holistic empowerment, especially of the marginalized. The emphasis continues to be on empowerment and development of women, adolescent girls and children in all spheres of life. The Ministry has achieved several significant milestones in the past four years.

Significant Legislations The Ministry has enacted the Sexual Harassment of Women at Work Place (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The Act is a landmark as there was no such legislation in the country to address the issue of sexual harassment at the workplace. The Act covers all women irrespective of their age and employment status at the private and public working spaces including domestic workers and those in the unorganised and informal sectors of work. Clients and customers are covered through this Act. The Act extends to organisations, department, office, branch unit etc. in the public and private sector, organized and unorganized, hospitals, nursing homes, educational institutions, sports institutes, stadiums, sports complex and any place visited by the employee during the course of employment including the transportation. Rules are currently being framed for operationalising the Act. To address the growing instances of child abuse, the Ministry has brought in a special law, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 which came into force from 14 November, 2012. The Act provides protection to children from the offences of sexual assault, sexual harassment and pornography through stringent punishment. The Act mandates special courts for speedy trial, child friendly procedures in courts and punishment for not reporting the offence to police or appropriate authority, and for abetment and making false complaint or false information.

In addition, the Ministry has amended the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of

Children) Act, 2000 in 2011 to remove discriminatory references to children affected by disease such as leprosy, tuberculosis, hepatitis-B etc. Notification in this regard has been issued on 8 September, 2011. The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Amendment Bill, 2012 has been introduced in the RajyaSabha which has referred the Bill to Department related Parliamentary Standing Committee for consideration. Also, Cabinet Note for amendment in Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 has been circulated to the concerned Ministries for their comments.

Schemes for Women The Ministry launched the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (RGSEAG), also known as‘SABLA’ in November, 2010. The scheme aims at all-round development of adolescent girls of 11-18 years by making them self-reliant by improving their health and nutrition status and facilitating access to learning an d public services through various interventions such as health, education, vocational training and counselling and guidance at the AnganwadiCenters.

SABLA is at present running in 205 districts across the country. During 201213, 88.76 lakhs adolescent girls have benefitted under this scheme (as on 31.12.2012).

A comprehensive scheme called ‘Ujjawala’ aims to prevent trafficking on the one hand and also provides rescue and rehabilitation of victims. It has five specific components- Prevention, Rescue, Rehabilitation, Reintegration and Repatriation of victims of trafficking. The Scheme is mainly implemented through NGOs. In 2012-13, 73 projects have been approved and Rs. 7.39 crore has been released. A conditional cash transfer scheme, Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojana (IGMSY) has benefitted 4.69 lakh pregnant and lactating mothers during 2012-13. Being implemented on pilot basis in 53 selected districts using the platform of ICDS, the scheme envisages providing cash to Pregnant & Lactating (P&L) women during pregnancy and lactation in response to individual fulfilling specific conditions. It addresses short term income

support objectives with long term objective of behavioural and attitudinal changes.

This Scheme is included in the DBT scheme of the government. The ‘Swadhar’ scheme addresses specific vulnerability of women in difficult circumstances through a home-based holistic and integrated approach. It provides shelter, food, clothing, counselling, training, clinical and legal aid and aims to rehabilitate the women in difficult circumstances. Rs. 2363.15 lakhs have been released to the scheme for 2009-2013. The Ministry has introduced Support to Training & Employment Programme (STEP)scheme to train and upgrade skills of women and to provide project based employment under identified sectors. During 2009-2013, the scheme benefitted 30,481 marginalized women. The Ministry proposes to launch a new scheme- “One Stop Crisis Centre for Women” (OSCC) - during the current financial year. This scheme addresses the need for positive steps to be taken for women in crisis to provide immediate relief for the victims. It has been proposed to implement the said scheme on a pilot basis initially in 100 districts. In addition, pilot projects have been initiated in Pali (Rajasthan) and Kamrup (Assam) to demonstrate convergence of programmes and schemes for women. Women resource centres or Poorna Shakti Kendra (PSK) is a one stop centre for services to women were opened in 150 Gram Panchayats. Each PSK has two Mahila Gram Samanvyaks appointed by the mission who act as motivators for the women in the Gram Panchayat and are also responsible for providing training on various issues.

Schemes for Children The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme, one of the flagship programmes of the Government of India, has been strengthened and restructured. This scheme represents one of the world’s largest and unique programmes for early childhood care and development.

The government has allocated budget of Rs. 1,23,580crore during the 12th Five Year Plan.The restructured and strengthened ICDS will be rolled out in three phases covering 200 high burden districts in first year (2012-13) with 41 districts

from Uttar Pradesh, additional 200 districts in second year (2013-14) including districts from special category States and NER and in the remaining districts in third year (2014-15).

Under the restructured ICDS Scheme, the Anganwadi will now be the first village outpost for health, nutrition and early learning for children and mothers, 2 lakh Anganwdis will now get pucca buildings at cost of Rs.4.5 lakh each, and 70,000 Anganwadis or 5% of the existing AWCs will now have facility of a crèche which will benefit working mothers in both rural and urban areas. Also, cost norms for supplementary nutrition have been increased from Rs. 4/- to Rs. 6/- for children (6-72 months), from Rs.6/- to Rs.9/- for severely underweight children, and from Rs.5/- to Rs.7 for pregnant and nursing mothers.

Under the Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS), the Ministry provides a protective environment for children in difficult circumstances, as well as other vulnerable children, through GovernmentCivil Society partnership. It brings together multiple existing child protection schemes of the Ministry under one comprehensive umbrella, and integrates additional interventions for protecting children and preventing harm. Statutory Bodies like Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) and Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) are functioning in 619 and 608 districts of the country respectively, and 1195 various types of Homes have been provided financial assistance. ‘Childline’ service, which is an emergency outreach service for children in need of care and protection through a 24-hour phone helpline (1098), has been expanded to 274 cities/districts of the country from 83 cities before implementation of ICPS. In addition to these programmes and schemes, the Ministry of Women and Child Development is also drafting a national Plan of Action to combat the declining child sex ratio in many parts of the country, through wide consultations incorporating the views and knowledge from different stakeholders. The Rajiv Gandhi National Crèche Scheme is also being restructured to provide better facilities.

Rajiv Gandhi Panchayat Sashaktikaran Abhiyan

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he key role of Panchayats in rural governance and socioeconomic development has been recognized since the 1950s. In the current context, the need to strengthen Panchayats has intensified with the rise in expenditure on programmes of social welfare and inclusion, as Panchayats are vital to ensure that the benefits of these schemes reach the people, management of local institutions is improved and accountability is enhanced. There is need to provide Panchayats with adequate technical and administrative sup port, strengthen their infrastructure and eenablement, promote devolution, improve their functioning i.e. regular democratic meetings of the Panchayat, proper functioning of the standing committees, voluntary disclosure and accountability of the Gram Sabha, proper maintenance of accounts etc. It is against this background that the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Rajiv Gandhi Panchayat Sashaktikaran Abhiyan (RGPSA) has been launched to strengthen Panchayati Raj. This scheme was approved on 07.03.2013 The goals of the RGPSA are to enhance capacities and effectiveness of Panchayats and the Gram Sabhas; Enable democratic decision-making and accountability in Panchayats and promote people’s participation; Strengthen the institutional structure for knowledge creation and capacity building of Panchayats; Promote devolution of powers and responsibilities to Panchayats according to the spirit of the Constitution and PESA Act; Strengthen Gram Sabhas to function effectively as the basic forum of people’s participation, transparency and accountability within the Panchayat system; Create and strengthen democratic local self-government in areas where Panchayats do not exist; and Strengthen the constitutionally mandated framework on which Panchayats are founded. The scheme recognizes the fact

that States have different needs and priorities and therefore allows for State specific planning, whereby States can choose from a menu of permissible activities. Moreover 20% scheme funds are linked to States’ performance on devolution and accountability. States prepare perspective and annual plans to access funds under the scheme. A Central Steering Committee headed by the Union Minister, Panchayati Raj provides policy level guidance, while a Central Executive Committee headed by Union Secretary,

Constitution of SFC every five years, and elections, and making the SEC autonoplacement of Action Taken Report on the mous; Strengthening the institutional recommendations of the SFC in the State structure for capacity building of legislature; and Constitution of District Panchayats, selecting suitable partners for Planning Committees (DPCs) in all capacity building, and improving outreach districts, and issuing of guidelines/rules to and quality of capacity building; Putting in make these functional. States that do not place a system of performance assessment fulfill the above essential conditions are not of Panchayats; Strengthening Gram eligible for funds under RGPSA. Twenty Sabhas, promoting Mahila Sabhas/Ward percent scheme funds are linked to action Sabhas; Institutionalizing accountability taken by the States for implementation of processes such as voluntary disclosure of the provisions of the 73rd Amendment to i n f o r m a t i o n a n d s o c i a l a u d i t ; the Constitution of India in the following Strengthening the system of budgeting, accounts and audit, including use of eenabled processes. Maintenance of Panchayat accounts on-line at least for The goals of the RGPSA are to enhance District and Intermediate Panchayats.

Issuing of guidelines/rules for voluntary capacities and effectiveness of Panchayats disclosure of budget and accounts by Panchayat, and ensuring compliance of and the Gram Sabhas; Enable democratic State laws and rules with PESA. Activities that can be included in State plans under RGPSA are- Administrative decision-making and accountability in and Technical Support at the Gram Panchayat level; GP Buildings; Capacity Panchayats and promote people’s Building and Training of Elected Representatives & Functionaries; participation; Strengthen the institutional Institutional Structure for Training at State, District & Block level; e-enablement of Panchayats; Support to Panchayat structure for knowledge creation and Processes and Procedures in Panchayats with Inadequate Revenue Base; Special capacity building of Panchayats Support for Gram Sabhas in PESA and NE Areas; Programme Management; Panchayati Raj oversees the implementa- areas - Articulating an appropriate policy Information, Education, Communication tion of the scheme. This scheme is framework for providing administrative (IEC); Strengthening of State Election applicable to all States/ UTs including and technical support to Panchayats; Commission (SECs) and Innovative those which presently are not covered by Strengthening the financial base of Activities in States. In addition, RGPSA Part IX of the Constitution. States are Panchayats by assigning appropriate taxes, will provide support to innovative projects required to fulfill some essential conditions fees, etc.; Provision of untied funds to to strengthen Panchayati Raj and for accessing any RGPSA funds which Panchayats and timely release of SFC and incentivize Panchayats for their perforinclude - Regular elections to Panchayats Central Finance Commission (CFC) mance. or local bodies in non-Part IX areas under grants; Ensuring devolution of funds, By strengthening Panchayati Raj, the superintendence and control of the functions and functionaries; Preparing and RGPSA will strengthen grassroots State Election Commission (SEC); At least operationalizing a framework for bottom- governance in the country, enhance one third reservation for women in up grassroots planning and convergence accountability and increase the space for Panchayats or other local bodies; through the DPC; Ensuring free and fair people’s participation.

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