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SUNDAY
December 08 | 2013 | 04 Safar 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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VOL NO: 3 | ISSUE NO: 311 | 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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Lays foundation stone Faqir Gujri Model Village
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ce len ays o i V od a: w c t i in od Afr go al lives r l i t n to Ce s 300 nu eeth o c m i Co for t cla
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Asks Red Cross to reach out to schools, youth
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Homage paid to the martyrs of district Kathua
Mushtaq Peer sent to central jail Srinagar, December 07: Mushtaq Peer former chairman of Board of Professional Entrance Examination (BOPEE) and the main accused in Common Entrance Test (CET)-2012 paper leak scam has been lodged in Central Jail Srinagar after the crime branch got a 10-days judicial remand from anti corruption court. The scam was unearthed by the crime branch recently and after some complaints poured in from the aggrieved candidates who could not make it to CET selection list 2012. Pertinently, the High Court has asked for the property details of Peer. And his defense lawyer is scheduled to argue his bail matter before the anti corruption court on Monday where his main arguments will focus on the Crime Branch’s jurisdiction to investigate such matter.
5 days’ State Mourn on Dr. Mandela’s death Jammu, December 07: As a mark of respect to Dr. Nelson R. Mandela, Former President of South Africa, who passed away on 05th December, 2013, the State Government has decided to observe State Mourning from 6th to 10th of this month. The National and State flags will fly at half-mast on all buildings and places where these flown and there will be no official entertainment during this period.
1 Dies, 3 Injured in road mishaps Srinagar, December 07: One person died and three others were injured in different road See Mishaps on Pg. 11
Inside story Jora visits Dal catchment areas in Dara Harwan The Minister for Housing and Urban Development Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora visited Dara Harwan catchment areas of Dal Lake today. Mr. Jora inspected the anti-erosion works carried out on Maloori Nallah, which
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On Edit Page Erratic cooking gas home delivery system As soon as winter sets in the Kashmir valley, the people are subjected to all kinds of problems in day to day life. Whether it is electricity supply, water
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WEATHER
FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:
Light rain/snow may occur at isolated places over higher reaches of the state.
FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:
Generally cloudy Sky to Partly Cloudy Sky. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 13°C & 01°C respectively.
TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM 11.8 0C MINIMUM 0.9 0C SUNSET ON(SUNDAY) 05:23 pm SUNRISE ON (MONDAY) 07:26 am
Boost spirit of nationalism among people: Azad Rs. 45 cr central assistance for Jammu, Sgr cancer centres Rs. 150 crores increase in NRHM budget for J&K Kathua, December 07: “It is our duty to remember and give honor to the martyrs besides carrying forward their mission and boosting spirit of nationalism among the people” said Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad while addressing at a function organized in connection with commemoration of 15th Shaheedi Diwas here today to pay homage to the martyrs of district Kathua. The Annual Shaheedi Diwas is being organized every year to commemorate the sacrifices made by the martyrs while serving in police, army and paramilitary forces. A big floral tribute was paid to martyrs at Shaheedi Smark at Shaheedi Chowk where Ghulam
Nabi Azad along with Ministers, Member Parliament, MLCs and
other dignitaries laid wreaths. Ghulam Nabi Azad and other
NC hits back on Mirwaiz’s remarks on Sheikh Abdullah ‘Read history before delivering sermons’ Srinagar, December 07: Castigating Mirwaiz Umar Farooq for his remarks on National Conference founder Sheikh Abdullah, NC Saturday hit back saying it does not suit to a religious clergy to indulge in the politics of share lies and deceit at the religious congregations and spit venom against the tallest political leader of the State and the Political party of the masses for petty political benefits. A statement issued to KNS mentioned that the recently delivered speech of Mirwaiz at Kashmir’s grand mosque was politically motivated and that the lies spread against NC over the period of time have already
been rejected by people at several occasions, including one in 1983, when late Mirwaiz Molvi Mohammad Farooq rejected valuable offers from Mufti Sayed and instead put his weight behind Dr. Farooq Abdullah to
get through in the battle of honor and dignity for Kashmiris. The statement further mentioned that earlier in 1964, late Molvi Mohammad Yusuf Shah was first to embrace the tallest political figure of the State
Cong not in hurry in declaring the names of candidates: Soz Srinagar, Dec 07: State Congress President Professor Saif-uDin Soz Saturday said that he would soon meet UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi to chalk out the future strategy about the forth coming Parliamentary elections in Jammu and Kashmir. “We have not forwarded any list of candidates that would contest Parliament elections on Congress ticket. We are not in hurry and decision in this regard would be taken at appropriate time,” Soz told CNS
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adding that Congress party is united and busy in chalking out strategy for the upcoming elections. Soz said that Congress High Command would soon convene a meeting and accordingly the party would declare its candidates. “I will meet Soniaji personally and inform him about the development in State on political front,” he said. Replying to a question, Soz said that it is up to High Command to decide about the names of candidates. “The position will be clear in coming days,” he said.
at Islamabad Air port to help him as an aide in the dialogue for resolution of Kashmir issue. “The Mahajr-e-Milat, Molvi Sahib had pleaded for his return to the birth place, in reply to which, Sheri- Kashmir had informed him that a letter had already been sent to Pandit Nehru on that account.” The statement said that NC also reminded Molvi Umer Farooq that the party was first to support Islamabad mission of Hurriyat (M) in 2007, in an attempt to seek resolution of Kashmir imbroglio. “Had that mission succeeded, our Party would have been first to come out to congratulate Umar Farooq and his associates. That shows the See NC on Pg. 11
dignitaries extended their sympathies with the families of the martyrs present on the occasion. Union Minister said that Government of India is extending liberal funding to the state of Jammu and Kashmir to strengthen the health, education and R&B infrastructure primary needs of development. He said that Union Health Ministry has launched several health schemes especially for women and new born child. He appealed the Panches, Sarpanchs and elected representatives to create awareness about health and family welfare schemes like Janani and Jacha Bacha scheme to avail free medicare facilities for neo natal, new born and pregnant women during pre and post pregnancy See Azad on Pg. 11
Congress minister’s allegation challenged by NC leaders Srinagar, December 07: Asking Congress Minster Nawang Rigzin Jora to disclose names of legislators who sabotaged prestigious mega township project in Srinagar, National Conference on Saturday said if Jora’s allegations are based on truth, let him produce evidence for the same and disclose names of involved legislators. According to reports Minister of Housing and Urban Development Nawang Rigzin Jora on Wednesday chairing a meeting here had said that some ruling National Conference legislators from Srinagar sabotaged the prestigious mega township project in Srinagar which was pioneered by the then NC government led by Dr Farooq Abdullah in 2002. Senior National conference leader and Minster for Rural Development Ali Mohammad Sagar told KNS that if Rigzin Jora has leveled such allegations then he should also disclose the names of the
involved legislators. “If he has said so then it becomes his moral responsibility to make public the names of such legislators if he can’t disclose the names, then he should apologize for defaming the National conference, “he said. Meanwhile National conference provisional president Nasir Aslam Wani told KNS that if Jora has blamed the NC legislators for their involvement then he should straight away mention the names also. “I fail to understand that how could National conference legislators be involved in hurdling the project. Now when Jora has blamed so then he should come up with the names of involved legislators. Additional general secretary of National Conference Dr Mustafa Kamal commenting on the same issue told KNS that the allegation is just a blame game and nothing else. “Congress minster should bear in mind that National See Allegation on Pg. 11
Urge for change perceptible from Karnah to Kathua: Mehbooba ‘PDP will carry forward reconciliation efforts to ensure peace on borders’ Srinagar, December 07: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), president, Mehbooba Mufti Saturday said the urge for change in governance system is perceptible from Katua to Karnah and it could come only with a change in the government. Addressing public meeting at Tangdhar and workers meet in Teetwal in Karnah, she said the PDP considers peace between India and Pakistan as the foundation for resolution of the problems of Jammu and Kashmir, and it would carry forward the reconciliation efforts, if the people give it a decisive mandate in the coming Lok Sabah and assembly elections. Mehbooba said areas like
Karnah had suffered the most, after the independence, as a result of continued hostility between India and Pakistan. The iron curtain of the Line of Control (LoC), guarded by two major armies of the world, had resulted in a siege around them and places like Karnah, Teetwal, Uri, Poonch, Gurez had turned into dead ends, after historically enjoying the centrality of their location, she said and added that the shelling and firing across the LoC has made life there miserable. She said the cease-fire agreement between India
and Pakistan in 2003, had brought peace into the lives of people living in the border areas, and it was not restricted to cessation of hostility alone, but was perceived as the essential first step in building peace and reconciliation, so that these artificial borders could ultimately be opened for travel and trade. “That is why the PDP demonstrated against the recent ceasefire violations, at a time when even the Chief Minister had also tried recommending ‘other options’. As any escalation would not only mean threat to lives and property
Corruption charges against Varsity officials Files lingering from years Srinagar, December 07: At a time when former BOPEE Chairman Mushtaq Ahmad Peer who also headed the Centre of Computer Sciences in Kashmir University for years is grilled and nailed for his wrong doings, scores of teachers working in the varsity are demanding stern action against those teachers and officials who according to them are involved in various scandals. There is no denying the fact that the University authorities appointed various Committees against such teachers and officials at different times, but, unfortunately according to reports, these committees for one reason or the other failed in fixing the responsibility. Reliable sources told Srinagar
based News gathering agency CNS that at least half a dozen teachers including Wardens and former officials of Kashmir University are facing corruption charges. A senior Professor of varsity wishing not to be named told CNS that “the former Registrar of Kashmir University Prof. Mehraj-ud-Din who is presently working as HOD Law in Central University was involved in an embezzlement worth crores of rupees. The said Professor looted the public money in a big way. It was a serious issue and the case had been taken up by the Vigilance Organization of Kashmir,” he said adding that the concerned official utilized all his resources and was successful in shelving the case against him. The senior Professor further said that it would be appropriate if instead of Vigilance the Crime Branch would look into the matter. When contacted Prof. Mehraj-udDin told CNS that he can’t respond
to these allegations leveled against him by a Professor who wished not to be named. “My hands are clean and I have nothing to do with it. It is Vigilance Organization Kashmir which can give you the factual position,” he said. A top Vigilance official said that he is new to the Department and does not know whether case relating to particular person was lying with the VOK or not. Insiders in University said that another senior Professor Muhammad Yasin Shah who is also the Dean, Applied Science and Technology is also facing corruption charges. Reports revealed that Shah has grabbed a huge amount that was granted to the varsity by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The department has constituted a Technical Committee to examine the alleged fraud. Director, SRC Prof. Muhammad Akbar Khuroo is also examining the case. When See Corruption on Pg. 11
along the LoC, but it could have shattered the entire progress achieved in the LoC travel and trade and other Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), which we see as part of a grand vision, for virtual reunification of the state without changing the borders,” said Mehbooba. She said PDP during its brief tenure in the government played a pivotal role in getting India and Pakistan close to each other and solid progress was visible on making Kashmir a bridge between the two neighbours. But that whole process was reversed with the arrival of the present government. She said time has now come See Mehbooba on Pg. 11
Geelani defers Srinagar Rally Srinagar, December 07: Keeping in view the reported restrictions by the authorities Huriyat Conference (G) Saturday deferred its Srinagar rally that was scheduled to be held on December 8. The Statement issued to KNS mentioned that the continuous confinement of Huriyat (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani has made the amalgam to defer the scheduled Srinagar rally. Condemning the restrictions imposed on its Chairman, Huriyat(G) has stated that it would announce the fresh dates of scheduled rallies once the senior separatist is released from the confinement.”The meet headed by Syed Ali Geelani held at the Huriyat headquarters today discussed in detail the present situation and the restrictions imposed on Bandipora, Tral and Srinagar rallies.” See Geelani on Pg. 11
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11 Sunday, 08 December 2013 From Front Page........
Azad.........
period. Mr. Azad announced that Union Health Ministry has given nod to provide 45 crore each for Jammu and Srinagar Cancer Institutes in view of steep rise in cancer cases in the state. Hea also announced an increase of 150 crore rupees in NRHM budget for Jammu & Kashmir which he said will be utilized in far-flung areas only. He said that the cancer institutes will have the most modern equipment and 80 percent of the bydget will be spent on the purchase of this machinery. He said the ministry has formulated a scheme to provide free medical checkups twice a year for every child upto 18 years of age in which all the expenditure on treatment will be incurred by Union Health Ministry. He said that mobile medical facilities will be provided to the nomads of the state very shortly. Member Parliament, Ch Lal Singh while speaking on the occasion said that the 15th Shaheedi Diwas is an effort to remember the martyrs who laid down their lives for unity and integrity of the state and country and to promote the spirit of patriotism among the masses. Minister of State for Cooperative, Fisheries, Finance and Planning, Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma while speaking on the occasion said that every citizen owned a duty to give honour and respect to those families who lost their loved ones during their duties for the country. MLC Subash Gupta also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the role and contribution of martyrs. During the function blankets were given to the 107 families of martyrs. MoS, Health, Shabir Ahmed Khan, MLA Badherwah, Mohammad Sharief Niaz, Chairman, Kargil Hill Dev Council, Asgar Ali Karbalai, Panchs & Sarpanchs and large number of people were present on the occasion.
Allegation.........
conference has always worked for the betterment of people and had never played any politics over the public concerning issues. He has created doubts within the minds of the public so he should come clear on the matter as his allegations can cause the damage to the image of National conference leaders. Member legislative Assembly Batmaloo constituency Irfan Ahmad shah said that some officers have misguided the congress minster. “Leveling such brazen charges against NC leaders is wrong. He should explain the matter. The fact is that the project which Jora has talked about, is hanging because the government is not paying good compensation to the people for their land,” he added.
NC........
spirit and concern of our leadership for the well being of the land and the people.” The NC spokesman accused Mirwaiz of being probably ‘ignorant’ about history of the State. “The Mirwaiz should understand aim and motive behind three years old public statement of Retd. Air Chief Marshal of Pakistan Asghar Khan, who had said that Tribal raid on Kashmir in 1947, at the behest of Pakistan, was a great blunder and real cause for induction of Indian Forces in to the State.” The statement claims that the NC founder Shiekh Mohammad Abdullah was staunch advocate of Independent State and he has already proved himself so by going to hardships in prisons for 22 years. “Mirwaiz should enquire from the then establishment of Pakistan as to why late Z.A Bhattoo agreed for conversion of Cease Fire line into Actual Line of Control and also to his Hurriyat mate Syed Ali Shah Geelani as to what lured him to enter election politics prior to come back of Shiekh Mohammad Abdullah into main stream. “ Spokesman said “The baseless utterances of Molvi Sahib can in no case damage images of mass based National Conference and its leadership but may help the liar PDP to build more castles in the air to hoodwink common masses. PDP leader Mufti Syed alone was instrumental to build environment for killing of hundreds of innocents including Mirwaiz Molvi Mohammad Farooq in 1990 when Mufti was Union Home Minister and had himself made selection of Jagmohan as Governor of J&K State.”
Daily Improving internal road connectivity is important part of PDP’s agenda she said and assured the people of Karnah that it will construct a tunnel to connect the area with rest of the Valley. Besides that, PDP will also provide round the year connectivity on Mughal road and Kishtawar-Simthan road. She said it was the PDP’s efforts through which the Centre had promised funds under Prime Minister’s economic package, for constructing a tunnel through Zogila to provide all weather connectivity to Ladakh region.
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Snag near Cremation Ground, Srinagar, resulting in minor injury to a shopkeeper. The Bus was on way from JVC Bemina to Gulabagh, Srinagar collect School Children. A Tipper bearing registration number JK01F/4339 driven by Tariq Ahmed Dar son of Ghulam Ahmed resident of SK Payeen met with an accident near Chan Gali SK Pora, Bandipora, in which two passengers Hafizulla and Mohammad Shafi Mir sons of Malki Mir resident of Chan Gali, SK Pora. The injured were shifted to Sub District Hospital, Bandipora for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard.
Passing-out parade cum attestation ceremony held
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Mobilise much larger resources for the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund: Governor Jammu, December 07: N. N . Vo h r a , G o v e r n o r stressed the need to significantly enlarge the corpus of the Flag Day fund to enhance the welfare of our valiant soldiers, airmen and sailors in recognition of the sacrifices made together to safeguard the honour, glory, and safety of the Motherland. This was stated by him during the annual Armed Forces Flag Day ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, Jammu, today. While interacting with the retired Army personnel
here, Governor, emphasized the importance of mobilizing larger resources and observed that this Day needs to be made a very important event as the day for the entire nation to show their gratitude towards the ex-service personnel and their families. Governor enquired about the number of World War II veterans in the State and said that we need to do much more for their well being and devise all possible ways and means to take care of them.
contacted Prof M. Y. Shah told CNS that, “nothing has been established by the Committee as he had processed the UGC documents in a routine manner”. “There is no inquiry as everything has been cleared,” he said. Highly placed sources told CNS that an Associate Professor of Law Department Dr. Mohammad Hussain in the capacity of tour in charge has grabbed lakhs of rupees from the Department. After returning from tour along with the students in 2010, he could not produce satisfactory documents related to the expenditure to Professor Lateef, the then HOD Law. Consequent upon two enquiry committees were appointed by the concerned department in order to fix the responsibility Office of the Regional Transport Office Kashmir but all in vain. Despite repeated attempts Dr. Mohammad Hussain did NOTICE Whereas a joint application has been not pick up the phone. received from Shri Abdul Karim Moreover, the reliable sources added that during the Matta S/o Mohammad Iqbal Matta Shotopa country those passed out tenure of Prof. Gull Muhammad Wani, Prof. Shad R/o SPC Samundar Bagh Sgr. (as Kargil: As many as 35 included two each from Transferor) and Shri Riyaz Ahmad Ramzan and Dr. Mohammad Hussain as Wardens, officers, mostly from the Bihar, Delhi, and Haryana, Mattoo S/o Ghulam Mohammad embezzlement cases involving lakhs of rupees surfaced Mattoo R/o Bemina Sgr. (as medical stream, including four each from J&k (Dr Transferee) for transfer of Auto (P) Carriage route permit No. 5318 STAR in the Mehboob-ul-Alam, Boys Hostel, Naseem Bagh. 10 women, joined the Indo Mohd Hussain from Balti Covering vehicle No. JK01T-3563. Now, Therefore, it is notified for general “No doubt several enquiry committees were appointed Tibetan Border Police Bazaar, Kargil) & (Dr. information that objections, if any to the proposed transfer of the said route to investigate the matter but all of them failed in fixing permit/vehicle shall be filed in writing in the office of the Regional (ITBP) in a colourful Tundup from Phyang, Transport Officer, Kashmir within a period of seven days from the date of the responsibility. All the committees have preferred to passing-out parade and Le h), Rajasthan, and publication of this notice. Seller and Purchaser identified by the authorised shift the responsibility in order to avoid animosity with attestation ceremony at the Madhya Pradesh, seven representative of M/s New JK Roadways namely Mr. Mohammad Yaseen. the persons involved in the scandal,” one of the senior Sd/- Regional Transport Officer ITBP grounds in Mussoorie from Uttar Pradesh, five No: JK RTOK 7055 Dated: 27-11-2013 Kashmir Professors of Varsity told CNS adding that currently, G.D on Ist December 2013. from Andhra Pradesh, the file is pending for the last one year with Prof. These officers underwent three from Maharasthra Mohammad Ashraf Wani, Dean, Social Sciences and Office of the Regional Transport Office Kashmir tough basic training for 12 and one from Karnataka. there is no action at all. weeks. The chief guest on Te n w o m e n o f f i c e r NOTICE Professor Gull Muhammad Wani confirmed that file is Whereas a joint application has been the occasion, IS Negi, IG, trainees also passed out pending with Professor Wani. However, he said that it received from Shri Bashir Ahmad S/o Northern Frontier, ITBP, indicating that they were Gh. Nabi R/o Chattabal Sgr. (as was he, who ordered the enquiry into it. “It was me who was presented with the no less than men in joining Transferor) and Shri Mohammad ordered the enquiry without actually raising fingers at Yousuf Pakhtoon S/o Ghulam Nabi ceremonial guard of honour the forces. The newly R/o Kohnakhan Dalgate Sgr. (as anyone. I ordered the enquiry because I was Provost of and review of the parade. inducted official trainee, Transferee) for transfer of Auto (P) University that time,” Prof Gull said. Negi gave away citations DC/MO Mohd Hussain Carriage route permit No. 4505 STAR Covering vehicle No. JK01J-7309. Professor Shad Ramzan told CNS that State as well as Now, Therefore, it is notified for general information that objections, if any and trophies to the trainees Kargili, elated at joining to the proposed transfer of the said route permit/vehicle shall be filed in University level audits were conducted in this regard f o r t h e i r e x c e l l e n t the force said it was my writing in the office of the Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir within a which absolved all the Wardens. “Somebody is trying to performances during the childhood dream to period of seven days from the date of publication of this notice. Seller and blow the issue out of proportion and is unnecessarily Purchaser identified by the authorised representative of M/s S.T.W Co. course in different streams. become an officer in the namely Mr. Bagh Hussain. dragging me into this case,” he said. The PRO of the The trainee officers from armed forces, which came No: JK RTOK 7074 Sd/- Regional Transport Officer University was also allegedly involved in the bungling Dated: 28-11-2013 Kashmir various parts of the true today. G.D of advertisements and was subsequently removed. However, the PR section of the university has not been overhauled and there are allegations that the old practices still continue. Short Term Tender Notice No: 10 of (2013-14) Dated: 06/12/2013 Vice Chancellor, Kashmir For and on behalf of J&K Lakes & Waterways Development Authority Srinagar, sealed tenders affixed with Rs. 5/- revenue stamp are invited from the Contractors having Registration in Growing / Planting University, Professor of Forest / Horticulture Plants for the work listed in Annexure "A" to this NIT as per terms & conditions noted below:Terms & Conditions: Talat Ahmed said that he 1. The tender documents for the work can be had from the office of the undersigned at Ishber Nishat Srinagar upto 21-12-2013 Upto 2:00 PM on the production of documents as under: will look into the matter. (a) Application along with cost of tender document in cash as mentioned in Annexure "A". (b) Registration Cards (c) CDR. “It is not on my finger tips 2. Tender documents shall be issued to the intending contractors only on production of Valid Registration Card duly verified / authenticated by Nursery Registration Officer, Horticulture Department in case but I will see what of Horticulture, while as by the office of Chief Conservator of Forests (Kashmir) Sgr. in case of Forest Registration Cards. happened to the inquiry if 3. While submitting applications, all tenderers are directed to give full details and bio-data for communications such as name, surname, parentage, residential address, registration No, telephone / Mobile No's and any other relevant information and has to enclose photo copy of registration card, failing which application for obtaining of tender documents will not be entertained. it is undertaken against any official,” he said.
Office of the Project/Watershed Manager, Watershed Management Division J&K Lakes & Waterways Development Authority Sgr.
Geelani....... ..
The statement further mentioned that the participation of people in large numbers in the rallies of Huriyat (G) perturbed the authorities due to which the restrictions were imposed. The that the process of reconciliation is taken to its next level, s t a t e m e n t f u r t h e r by implementing the decisions to extend the travel facility mentioned that such to groups beyond the divided families. She said procedures moves by the authorities need to be relaxed and to increase more people-to-people are ‘illegitimate ’and that contacts, more routes need to be opened. Once that is done, the state has virtually been places like Karnah Tangdhar and other border areas would turned into a police state wherein the lawlessness become hubs of trade and tourism activity. has prevailed all around. Mehbooba said Omar Abdullah has declared war with The amalgam has further every section of the society especially the youth, and it is appealed its supporters now up to the people to think and make sure that the insensitive and inept rulers are shown the door. Senior PDP and general masses to leaders, MLA & District President Abdul Haq Khan, Chief show maximum restrain Spokesperson & MLC Naeem Akhtar, State Secretary and not to resort to any act Zaffar Iqbal Manhas, Raja Manzoor, Fayaz Ahmad Mir, of violence. It has further Ghulam Mohammad Mir, Javed MIrchal, Khawja Fareed asked people across valley Ahmad, Qari Irshad, Mohammad Afzal Wani, Mohammad not to approach Srinagar Yaqoob Wani and others were also present and spoke on on December 8 and that the new schedule for the this occasion. The PDP president said like rest of the state, the NC has rally would be announced inflicted the system of injustice and exploitation of people after the release of senior in Karnah also. She said the noble people of these areas separatist. have been promised moon but nothing has been done to improve the quality of lives. She said even the IAY assistance and schemes under accidents across the MGREGA are sold by the NC workers and agents. She said Kashmir Valley. the schemes under PMGSY in Karnah are incomplete A Maruti Engine number because of contractor-politician nexus. And water supply 4 6 6 5 4 4 0 d r i v e n b y schemes are supplying raw water in absence of filtration Khurshid Ahmed Sheikh son of Mohammad Afzal plants. She said NC had made number of hallow promises to the resident of Gopalpora people in Karnah, like launching a special recruitment turned turtle near Fategud drive, building of tunnel across the Sadna pass and many Colony, Anantnag, in the jurisdiction of police other things, but nothing has been done on ground. She said the Chief Minister’s decision of holding cabinet s t a t i o n S h e e r b a g h , meeting in Karnah, in May last year, turned out to be an resulting in death of the expensive picnic only, as he didn’t look into the issues of driver. A case has been people of the area. This government, instead of solving registered in this regard. problems of people, is resorting to cosmetic acts for camera A n S R T C B u s o f and displaying flashy and expensive cars to make their Presentation Convent presence felt, she said and added the government is School Rajbagh, Srinagar developed a Techinical completely missing from the ground.
Mehbooba.........
Mishaps......
DIPJK-NB: 2375
Sd/- Watershed Manager Watershed Management Division LDA, Srinagar
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Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
SUNDAY, DECEMBER | 08 | 2013
Induction Training Programme of newly appointed Civil Judges, Munsiffs ishing and developing the same. He advised the young judges to imbibe in themselves the judicial culture A inaugural function of Induction Training programme for newly and adhere to the set norms of the judicial system. appointed Civil Judges (Junior DiviKeynote address was delivered sion)/Munsiffs of 2013 batch was by Prof. (Dr.) Virender Kumar, Honorganized by the State Judicial Acadorary Advisor to the State Judicial emy here today. As many as 38 newly appointed Academy by a power point presentation in which he deliberated in deCivil Judges (Junior Division) were formally inducted in the training tail upon the necessity and module of judicial training. course. The Chief Justice of High Court The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Justice R.M. Lodha, of Jammu and Kashmir, Justice M.M. Kumar emphasized upon the Judge, Supreme Court of India while Justice T.S. Thakur, Judge, Supreme young officers to be the Master of the files pending adjudication beCourt of India was Guest of Honour fore them. He stressed that the juon the occasion. Justice Muzaffar Hussain Attar, dicial officers should have eye on diarrhoea’. In his presidential adChairman, Committee Incharge, J&K each and every file so that he can dress Justice T.S. Thakur, Judge, Supreme Court of India. He said that State Judicial Academy delivered avoid unnecessary adjournments the Bar is the mother of Bench so and is able to deliver the justice in the welcome address and formally the members of the Bar are also rea time bound manner. He further welcomed the Judges from Supreme quired to adhere to the high princisaid that to know and master the Court, other dignitaries and distinples of moral and ethical values of statutory law should be the priorguished guests. the profession. He told the judges In his welcome address, Justice ity of every judicial officer than to to overcome the challenge of credthat of case law. Attar traced down the history of ibility being faced by the judiciary He advised the judges to save establishment of the State Judicial LonetoNews Kanganfrom what he called Khan and Newsadvised Agencythem Ganderbal to be abreast themselves Academy and paid tributes the vi-Agency Gulzar News Agency Soura of having ‘case law Zahidwith Bookthe Depot Chadooraof law and development the practice sionaries who contributed in nourJammu, December 07:
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to be ready for the new challenges which the judiciary is likely to face in the near future due to overall development and socio-economical changes in the society. Justice R.M. Lodha, Judge, Supreme Court of India emphasized upon the new incumbents to adhere the core value of judicial conduct and behaviour. He said that for a judge to be effective and a judge in the true sense and spirit, he must be knowledge-
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, December 07: Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora around 90 per cent of the pation as a challenge to sociJammu, December 07: Bhat News Magam News Agency etyAgency in general and to youth tients Zargar there have been eitherKunzar The Minister for Rural DevelDar NewsinAgency Beerwah BashirorNews Agency Sumbal de addicted discharged. particular, the Minister Minister for Medical opment and Panchayat Raj, asked the Red Cross to come Earlier, in her welcome ad- Pattan Education, Youth Services Reshi&News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar dress, Secretary, J&K Chapter forward and initiate a moveSports, Mr. Taj Mohi ud Din Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore said that during the last five today advised the Red Cross ment on drug de-addiction of Red Cross, Mrs. Roma Wani years, State was ushered into Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund underlined the objectives of a new period of development Society to expand their activi- all across the State, for which Jeelani Agency all Baramulla G.M He News Sopore workshop. saidAgency her orgahe promised support from ties and reach out to youth at News and prosperity. He said the Sultan News Agency Handwara schools and colleges. Shah News Agency Kupwara present government prioriAddressing the Younis closing News Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad tized health care, education, function of a five dayReshi work-News Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agencypower, Tral employment, tourism shop on first aid and emerand other core sectors, the Turray News Agency Tral Badru News Agency Bijbehara gency response here today, the benefits of which are being News Agency Kulgam Malik News Agency Arwani Minister said the role Rahi of the reaped by common man. He Rah News Agency Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil Red Cross is becoming critisaid that opposition is frus-
Taj asks Red Cross to reach out to schools, youth
cal with the evolving times as more and more complex disastrous and challenging situations are thrown up. Reminding the participants of the catastrophic earthquake of 2005 in which 960 people perished in Uri alone, Mr. Taj said such incidents have only reinforced the need for greater involvement of Red Cross and their integration with young people at school and college level. Terming drug addic-
the Government. Mr. Taj said the Department of Medical Education has already set up two drug de-addiction centres at the two Medical Colleges of Jammu and Srinagar and
Vikar inaugurates 6.3 KVA Receiving Station at Tethar Banihal, December 07: Minister of State for Technical Education and Power, Mr. Vikar Rasool Wani has said that the coalition formation has ensured equitable development of all the regions of the state, adding that special attention has been given by the Govt to upgrade the basic facilities and the infrastructural capacities of various priority sectors like education, power, health, and PHE for the benefits of the people. The Minister was addressing at public gathering at Tethar in Rambagh district today after inaugurating 6.3 KVA Receiving Station there. Mr Vikar asked people to come forward and take benefits from the various centrally sponsored schemes which included MGNREGA, PMGSY, NRHM etc. He said that Govt is committed to provide all basic facilities to the rural people at their doorsteps.He said that new degree college would be constructed at a cost of Rs 2.5 Crore soon and assured the people that the road from Tethar to Pikia area would be completed shortly. The Minister also took stock of ongoing various developmental works coming up at Danar and Nowgam area. He directed the executing agencies to expedite the pace of works for timely completion of the projects. People met the Minister and presented their demands .The Minister assured them that their grievances would be addressed in a phased manner, Later the Minister reviewed the progress of the ongoing development works coming up in the constituency. The meeting was attended by SE STD Ramesh Chander, XEN S. Fatehpuri, AEE Sunil Pandoh, TehsildarBanihalDrUsman, and other various district and Sectoral officers of the Ramban district.
nization is focusing on youth to create a chain of volunteers across the State, particularly at district headquarters so as to have quick response to emergencies and disasters.
Minister for Public Enterprises and Floriculture, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed Saturday said that the result of developmental programmes is being marked significantly by people on the ground level which are evidently an eye-opener for the political opponents. Present Government has done a remarkable job with respect to basic facilities like road, power, water supply besides weaving a huge network of educational and health institutions in all the three regions of the State. The Minister was addressing a public rally at “Dravy” Kokernag today. Mr Sayeed said that due to the wholehearted financial support of Central Government, a number of flagship programmes have been prepared for developing the primary infrastructure and Government is working on different fronts for upliftment of socially and economically backward areas of the society. The Minister said that solving the prob-
Sagar lays foundation stone Faqir Gujri Model Village
trated by the performance of the Omar led Government and are conspiring against us. He cautioned the people to remain vigilant against the designs of these vested interests. This was stated by the Minister while laying foundation stone of Faqir Gujri Model Village in Dara Harwan, today. The Model Village is being developed at a cost of Rs. 1.12 crore and it will be equipped with Common Facility Cen-
tre, Rural Information Centre, Anganwari Centre and a playground. Besides, lanes, drains, community latrine units and household latrine units would be constructed in the model village. Mr. Sagar directed the executing agency to complete the project within next nine months. He said that Government has expended Rs. 1350 crores for developing on various model villages across the State. Addressing the gathering, the Minister said that a number of developmental works would be taken up under MG NREGA in the area which would provide employment opportunities to the locals besides developing the area. The Minister also said that green belt would be created in the area, an amount of Rs. 2.50 crore to plant high quality cherry plants and for establishing fish ponds for upliftment of locals. Mr. Sagar said that with the cooperation of people pres-
ent government was able to restore peace and normalcy in the State, which resulted in heavy influx of tourists. He said that during this season, about 11 lakh domestic and foreign tourists visited the State. He said that to provide better road connectivity to the people, the present government laid a network of roads across the State besides creating a number of health and educational institutions to provide facility of higher education to the students near their homes. He said that to improve and streamline the power supply in the State, the government has taken up many a new power projects which on completion would go a long way in improving the power scenario in the State. He said Government has introduced many employment schemes like SKEWPY, Himmayat and Udaan for unemployed educated youth of the State.
‘Govt approves Rs. 150 cr for Chatta-Sandhi road’ Jammu, December 07: Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture Mr. Raman Bhalla on Saturday inaugurated Government High School building at Chatta, completed at a cost of Rs. 50 lakh. Chief Engineer, PMGSY, Mr. M M Gupta, Chief Education Officer, Mr. Tarseem Lal Bhagat besides senior officers from PDD, PHE, R&B, RDD, CAPD and PMGSY were present on the occasion. Mr. Bhalla said that Government is committed to provide all infrastructural facilities to the students so that they could get quality education. He called upon the parents to admit their wards in Govt schools where books, uniform and midday meals up to 8th standard are provided free of cost to them. He said that Government has constituted a team of officers for identifying those children who are not getting admission due financial constraints. The Minister asked the teaching fraternity to provide quality education to the students, adding that the teachers are the architects, who shape the personality of the children. He asked the teaching fraternity to increase enrolment of the students in the school.
Result of development programme eye-opener for opponents: Peerzada Anantnag, December 07:
able, should have capacity to upgrade himself with the development of law, should be impartial and have an impeccable integrity, immaculate independence, active humility, responsiveness, courage, conscience, patience and above all to develop a habit of continuous learning. He said that a judge should have a perception of judge from the point of view of society’s expectations from him and not what he himself perceives about the same. Justice Hasnain Massodi, Member Committee Incharge, J&K State Judicial Academy expressed his gratitude to Hon’ble visiting Judges from the Supreme Court who have spared their valuable time to guide and encourage the newly appointed Civil Judges (Junior Division). Justice Virender Singh, Justice Mohammad Yaqoob Mir, Justice Ali Mohammad Magray, Justice D.S. Thakur, Justice Tashi Rabastan, Justice Bansi Lal Bhat and Justice Janak Raj Kotwal, Judges of High Court of J&K graced the occasion.
lems of common man is the priority and prime concern of the present Government. He said that the promises made by the present Government have been fulfilled to the maximum extent while as the works are under execution and expected to be completed within the shortest possible time. He said that Government has taken the state to the heights of development and the work is on to make the state a peaceful and prosperous one. Revealing details of the development in the Breng constituency, the Minister said that a huge network of educational and health institutions have been laid in all the three regions of the State, besides the development of roads, power and water supply has been augmented. He said that due to MG NREGA and other developmental programmes the developmental map of the constituency has changed altogether the work is on to bring more and more areas of the constituency on tourism map besides increasing the infrastructure on the existing ones.
Responding to the demand of locals, Mr. Bhalla asked the Executive Engineer of R&B to prepare estimates for construction of compound wall of the school. Regarding construction of Chatta –Sandhi road, he said that Government has earmarked Rs. 1.50 crore for this purpose while work is under progress on war-footing. The Minister
3.98 crore have been earmarked for improving water supply facilities in Chatta under National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP). On its commissioning, a population of 10483 of Chatta, Bermini, Mohra Kut, Mohra Rorian and Mohra Daruni and Rati Sarari of Sunjwan area will be benefitted, he added. The Minister said Gov-
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
You may run up against a brick wall early today. Things should ease a bit by evening. Remember that the harder you push against that wall, the more your head will pound, the more bruised your shoulder will become, and the more energy you’ll expend. You’ll be surprised at how easy things get when you step back. You’ll see that you can go around the wall without charging through it.
Taurus April 20-May 20
You may feel like a racehorse crammed in the starting gate. You’re stuck in a small spot, stomping your feet, and anxiously waiting for the starting bell. You may feel powerless since you have no control over when the gate will open. Be patient. Don’t waste all your energy fidgeting. The gate will open soon enough and you’ll be up and running.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Don’t box yourself into a corner and shut out everything around you except your immediate concerns. The more you isolate yourself and insist that you don’t need anyone else’s help, the more frustrated and sad you’ll become. If you’re lonely, scared, or angry, admit this to yourself and others. Extend yourself outward instead of drawing further in.
Cancer June 22-July 22
Be careful about opening your mouth in situations in which it isn’t appropriate. When the conversation lags, you feel it’s your duty to pipe up. By doing so, you may launch the conversation onto an inappropriate topic. You may want to say something just so you can shift the focus to you. The better choice is to allow the silence to sit peacefully.
Leo
July 23-August 22 Get organized in the morning because later you’re going to be more scattered. If you start with a solid plan for how to tackle the day’s tasks, you’re more likely to accomplish everything. If you don’t remain strong and on task, other people will take advantage of your generous nature. You could end up doing more favors than work.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
There may be a frenzy of activity around you, but you’ll be able to handle it. Your charm will get you through any door. You should be able to juggle many things at once, and others will look to you for support. You’ll have a level head and calm demeanor and handle things diplomatically and honestly. Don’t be surprised if things get more insane as the day wears on, but this shouldn’t faze you.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Be careful about blaming yourself for something that you aren’t responsible for. Maybe you influenced someone to act a certain way and now that action is backfiring negatively. Remember that everyone makes his or her own decisions. Ultimately, you aren’t responsible for decisions that someone else makes, regardless of any advice you may have given him or her.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 You’re at an emotionally climactic time, and your feelings are erratic and perhaps unmanageable. Don’t feel pressured into making logic out of anything. Your job is to take a deep breath and relax. Remember that life is an exciting adventure full of twists and turns. Erratic, roller-coaster emotions are a reminder of that. Enjoy the ride.
Sagittarius said Government is contemplating to develop Bermeeni and Salarian villages falling on the out skirts of Jammu city on modern lines by providing adequate drinking water, road connectivity, healthcare, power besides education facilities. He said Government has earmarked Rs. 2.37 crore for BeermeniRatisalarian road. Mr. Bhalla said Rs.
ernment has approved Rs. 1 crore for construction of 1-kilometer Karayani Talab-Doongian road. He said that Government has issued instructions to the PHE and ERA officers to put their all out efforts in providing adequate drinking water facilities in water deficient areas by digging deep drill tube wells and hand pumps.
Jora visits Dal catchment areas in Dara Harwan Srinagar, December 07: The Minister for Housing and Urban Development Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora visited Dara Harwan catchment areas of Dal Lake today. Mr. Jora inspected the antierosion works carried out on Maloori Nallah, which passes through many localities including Dardkhover, Nagbal, Check Dara, Ganie Mohalla, Gandthal, Saraibag, Syedpora, Danihama, Mulfag and Tailbal. The Nallah, which is a tributary of Tailbal Nallah joins Dachigam Nallah at Mulfag and finally goes into Dal Lake through Shanpora, Habbak depositing heavy load of silt and debris coming into the lake from the catchment. The anti-erosion works carried out by LAWDA to reduce silt and debris including
Gabion Retard, Gabion Check Dams, Retard lines and other anti-erosion works were inspected by the Minister. The Minister also visited Gandthal and reviews the anti-quarrying measures. He
November 22-December 21
Don’t box yourself into a corner and shut out everything around you except your immediate concerns. The more you isolate yourself and insist that you don’t need anyone else’s help, the more frustrated and sad you’ll become. If you’re lonely, scared, or angry, admit this to yourself and others. Extend yourself outward instead of drawing further in.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
You’re likely to take things to heart a bit more than usual. Dramatic changes in your environment and attitude will keep you on your toes. The wonderful thing about this is that you’ll gain a great deal of insight and understanding of other people. You’ll be more aware of other people’s feelings and perspectives, helping you make more educated decisions in your affairs.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Unexpected people, especially women, will surprise you with what they say. Your mother may bring up an issue that you hadn’t even considered. Perhaps your emotions get stirred when you recall something that a significant woman in your life said. Your feelings are bouncing from your heart to your head and back again. Take the feelings into account, but don’t let them dominate your decisions.
Pisces
February 19-March 20
also inspected the structure constructed to stop quarrying in the area.
Today you want things done your way and your way only. Your mood is quite stubborn and others would be foolish to think they could change your mind about anything. You’re the only person allowed to have that job. The truth is that you may change your mind several times today, and that’s fine. Just don’t expect anyone else to keep up with you!
Editorial/Opinion The Daily
Zabarwan Times Sunday, 08 December 2013
Erratic cooking gas home delivery system
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s soon as winter sets in the Kashmir valley, the people are subjected to all kinds of problems in day to day life. Whether it is electricity supply, water supply, availability of essential commodities or gas supply everything gets freezed with the minus temperatures. The government of Jammu and Kashmir launched home delivery of cooking gas a year back but in most of the areas the decision and the announcements in this connection have remained confined to the papers only. The domestic gas supply to every consumer at his doorstep is still a dream in most of the urban areas not the question of rural areas where the people are suffering for days together to get the cylinders refilled. In the Srinagar city itself the cooking gas supply to consumers is either erratic or it takes more than ten days and in some cases even two weeks to get home delivery of a cylinder despite the fact that people book them well in advance. The department of consumer affairs seems to be unconcerned about the situation and does not take much interest in monitoring the home delivery system which is full of lacunas. In Delhi and other metro cities besides many other cities and towns of the country the cooking gas is supplied through pipes to the consumers like electricity and water supply and there is no problem for them for the whole year and they do not face the shortage of the gas provided they make the payment well on time. But in our state we have not reached to that state and the home delivery system which was introduced only a year back is still in its infancy. As already the cylinders per year per consumer have been limited to nine only, the erratic supply of these nine cylinders too makes things more difficult and consumers have to persuade the agencies vigorously to get the home delivery. The gas supply agencies also play hide and seek with consumers and prefer their V.I.P consumers for home there is no problem of home delivery and no limit of nine gas cylinders. It is imperative that the government assesses the home delivery system and takes corrective measures to remove deficiencies in it so that people of this power hungry valley do not face more problems in getting the cooking gas cylinders on time.
Daily
ZABARWAN TIMES 9
Sunday, 08 December 2013
Transformative Impact of JNNURM
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n 2005, Ministry of Urban Development launched the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). The Mission was launched with an aim to encourage urban level reforms and fast track planned infrastructure development of identified “mission cities”. These cities were selected on the basis of population or them being State capitals, or having certain additional features. A cluster of 63 mission cities was identified each having a minimum of one million population including the seven metropolitan cities with more than four million population and twenty eight cities that were State capitals or had historic, religious or tourist importance. Later on, two more cities were added to the set of mission cities taking the total to 65 cities. The duration of JNNURM has been kept as 7 years beginning from 2005-06. Under JNNURM, financial assistance is being provided to each of the cities for specific project planning, development and implementation for projects of water supply, sewerage, drainage, solid waste, urban transport, urban renewal, heritage preservation and slum improvement. However, amongst all other infrastructure sectors, urban transport demanded special consideration, as indicated by the extraordinary growth in urban traffic conditions, depleting public transport services and the impact of road pollution to the urban environment. JNNURM has been instrumental in rejuvenating the urban space in the country. Post independence, JNNURM has been the country’s first national flagship programme of this nature and size for the urban sector. It is for the first time that the central government is providing assistance of this kind for what is classified as a State subject as per the Constitution. One of the Mission’s objective is to break the vicious circle of poor cost recovery - low investment - poor service delivery. JNNURM has managed to provide a strong impetus to investments in urban sector and incentivized cities to develop sustainable investment frameworks through service delivery reform and cost recovery of services provided. The Mission has definitely helped raise awareness and concern about problems of urban growth and management. Urban matters are talked about more widely and more frequently these days than before. Getting on to the
JNNURM bandwagon, has become both important and useful for the State and City officials as well as political leaders. For the first time the largesse from the Centre is claimed to be contingent upon various reforms. Mission seeks a different kind of identity, because it is contingent on reforms. The mandatory reforms also provide for a public disclosure law and a community participation law to institutionalize transparency and enable citizen’s participation. The Mission has actively advocated the role of Public Private Partnership (PPP).
sector. Also, the ‘4P’ framework—PeoplePrivate-Public Partnerships are being promoted as experience across the world indicates that in urban renewal and management, the role of ‘People’ in design of projects and partnerships is crucial. Therefore, best practices and models for ‘PPPP’ must be evolved and deployed for India’s urban management agenda to succeed. In urban centres, JNNURM has led to improved quality of life of the populace as better connectivity within the city and improved transport infrastructure has helped
Under JNNURM, financial assistance is
being provided to each of the cities for
specific project planning, development and implementation for projects of water
supply, sewerage, drainage, solid waste,
urban transport, urban renewal, heritage preservation and slum improvement.
However, amongst all other infrastructure
sectors, urban transport demanded special consideration, as indicated by the
extraordinary growth in urban traffic conditions, depleting public transport
services and the impact of road pollution to the urban environment.
With the launch JNNURM, both the macroenvironment as well as project-level micro environment is becoming more and more congenial for PPPs in the urban sector. Many of the JNNURM-supported reforms have created favorable governance and institutional framework for private sector to feel more confident to venture into the urban
in reducing traffic congestion, improved accessibility and safe mobility along with safe and comfortable circulation in city by affordable public transport for all. In many parts of the country, JNNURM has led to beautification of transport corridors in city which would increase the visual beauty and decrease visual pollution. Direct project
benefits include expanding sewage collection, treatment, and sanitation to obtain a more hygienic environment. The JNNURM projects have also increased the city’s capacity to handle rainwater through better drainage. The project improved drinking water quality by protecting groundwater and surface water sources. The Mission promotes a sound solid waste management system in which disposal is being conducted safely and hygienically, preventing blockage of drains. JNNURM has led to improved environment and public health in the project areas while promoting sustainable urban development. Without the project, environmental quality and public health will remain the same or worsen with a rapidly increasing population and associated unmanaged domestic wastes. Development of water, sanitation, and solid waste management infrastructure under this project aimed to enhance the overall urban environmental quality and public health of Indian cities and upgrade the parameters of quality of life like housing, natural environment, health, recreation and leisure time, social belonging, community life, public services and transport which includes water and other basic services which provides mobility and connectivity, and leads to upgrading quality of life of the citizen of India. Many initiatives undertaken in different cities have showed that with political will and planning, our urban spaces can become liveable again. Notable of these initiatives include 24X7 water supply in Hubli-Dharwad, Ahemdabad Bus Rapid Transit System, water supply project in Nagpur and property tax collection mechanism in Bangalore. The JNNURM project has also partially contributes to achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) like providing sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation, ensuring environmental sustainability and the eradication of slums and to achieve significant improvement in the lives. JNNURM has made a quantum change in size of investments and breadth of coverage across cities and sectors. JNNURM has beyond doubt given a considerable fillip to urban infrastructure investments. Cities have come forward and benefitted immensely under this programme. The JNNURM definitely has transformative impact on the urban infrastructure of the country.
Addressing Holistically Various Aspects Relating to Earth Processes – ESSO
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he Earth System Science Organization (ESSO) operates as an executive arm of the Ministry of Earth Sciences for it policies and programmes. It has four major branches of earth sciences - Ocean Science & Technology Services; Atmospheric and Climate Science Services; Geoscience and Technology; and Polar Science and Cryosphere. The sole purpose of the endeavor was to address holistically various aspects relating to earth processes for understanding the variability of earth system and for improving forecast of the weather, climate and hazards. The ESSO primarily aimed to develop and improve capability to a wide range of forecasts, on weather, climate and hazard related phenomena for societal, economic and environmental benefits including addressing aspects relating to climate change science, climate services and integrated Himalayan meteorology. Over 25 sectors of both public and private directly and indirectly, are the stakeholders of the various services being rendered by the ministry, in addition to general public. This ESSO is also responsible for development of technology towards the exploration and exploitation of marine resources in a sustainable way for the socioeconomic benefit of the society by taking into account the global developments in the field of marine environment. Weather and Climate Forecasts Weather and climate forecasts, including those of extreme events, are becoming increasingly important for the economic and societal benefits. Earth System Science Organization provides weather and climate forecasts on various spatial and time scales (nowcasting to climate) to different users in the country. This include nowcasting (up to six hours) for aviation and disaster management, short to medium range forecasts ( up to 7 days) for agricultural, water resources, insurance, public safety, tourism, water resources and power management, disaster management etc, seasonal forecasts for
economic planning, agricultural, water resources and power management, and climate change scenarios for long-term planning and mitigation and adaptation strategies. Operational short to medium range forecasts are now prepared using the state -of-the-art numerical weather prediction models at a resolution of 22 km from 100 km resolution. This is a major improvement. This improvement in capability was possible due to the upgradation of High Performance Computing (HPC) facility at the ESSO institutions. The quantitative forecasts of weather elements and forecast lead time by one day have improved over for short to medium range weather forecasdts. . This improvement is mainly attributed to use of high resolution numerical models with improved physics, and assimilation of nonconventional data from Doppler weather radars, satellite radiance and many satellite derived data products like winds, temperature and water vapour profiles. Verification of weather forecasts suggests that the skill in short range weather forecast in the country is at par with the skill of other developed countries like USA and UK. Skill of track prediction of tropical cyclones also has improved and is now comparable with the skill of other major prediction centres. The average forecasts errors in track of tropical cyclones in 2012 were 110, 185 and 240 km respectively for 24, 48 and 72 hour forecasts. In 2003, these errors were 150, 260 and 385 km respectively. Seasonal forecasts are traditionally prepared using statistical models, but with limited success of about 60%. In spite of better understanding of monsoon variability and consistent efforts to improve statistical models, the skill of monsoon seasonal forecast has not improved over the years. To meet the user demands of more accurate seasonal forecasts at much smaller spatial scale, the use of coupled atmosphere-ocean models, has been initiated. With the objective to implement a state-of-the-art dynamical
forecasting system for short range to seasonal forecasts, ESSO recently launched the Monsoon Mission with a budget provision of Rs 400.0 crores. Importantly, it is aimed at providing a seamless approach to predicting monsoon variations for lead times extending from short range to seasonal. The mission has initiated national and international collaboration in order to improve the models specifically for monsoon forecasting and especially targeting the key systematic errors which are limiting the predictive capability of dynamical models. A high priority has been accorded to the work on extended range forecasting, which has great potential for the agricultural sector. With the Monsoon Mission, a marked improvement in the accuracy of weather and climate forecasts is expected in next 5 years. Improvement of model physics like convection, clouds, land surface process, ocean coupling and development of advanced data assimilation methods are some of priority research areas under the Monsoon Mission. Prediction of extreme weather events like intense precipitation, strong winds, etc is also an important research priority. ESSO is making efforts to establish a framework for nowcasting (up to six hours in advance) based on numerical models and satellite and Doppler weather radar data. With the numerical models, an advance prediction (23 days in advance) of extreme weather events may be possible, at least in a probabilistic sense. For this, use of high resolution models with advanced data assimilation is required but with many ensembles to take care of the uncertainties in initial conditions. Such an ensemble forecasting system is already implemented and is now being evaluated. ESSO is at a threshold for a quantum jump in achieving significant improvement in weather and climate forecasts and thus helping the development of the nation. To meet these challenges, adequate investment will be made in human resource development, high
performance computing and improving the observational network. Ocean Mineral Resources Manganese nodules are potential ocean mineral resources found on the seabed at the depth of 4000 to 6000 m. These manganese nodules are small, dark-brown colored and lightly flattened, 5 to 10 cm in diameter, They host strategic minerals such as Copper, Nickel and Cobalt as well as Molybdenum, Vanadium, Titanium, Platinum, Rhodium, etc. in small quantities. India has been conducting extensive survey and research including development of technology for possible harnessing the resources. Recognizing India’s persistent endeavors, the pioneer investor status has been acceded primarily by allotment of a site in the Central Indian Ocean Basin by the Preparatory Commission of the United Nations for harnessing the polymetallic nodules. The Polymetallic Nodules programme consists of four components, viz. Survey and Exploration, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Study, Technology Development for Mining and Technology Development for Extractive Metallurgy. As a part of survey activity, a detailed multibeam bathymetry survey has been completed for 75,000 sq. km. area to map the seabed topography. A comprehensive resource analysis has been carried out. The estimated potential is found to be about 380 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT). The important metal resources estimated as: Manganese – 92.59 MMT, Nickel – 4.70 MMT, Copper – 4.29 MMT and Cobalt – 0.55 MMT. Besides, an area of ~7860 km2 has been identified as First Generation Mine Site (FGM) which has the best abundance and grade. The important prerequisites for mining these resources in the identified area are development of technology and conducting environmental impact assessment. Under technology development for harnessing the resources, a set of deep sea mining equipments have been developed indigenously.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer.