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TUESDAY
December 10 | 2013 | 06 Safar 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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VOL NO: 3 | ISSUE NO: 313 | 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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e ps cli e s ks ac ation t t l a e ne kr Dro S-Pa U
Ready for Hollywood debut See More On Page 06
45 villages included in the list of backward areas Jammu, December 09: The Cabinet which met here today under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, accorded sanction to the inclusion of 45 villages of different districts in the list of backward areas, in view of the recommendations of the J&K Commission for Backward Classes.
124 troopers, officers given ‘exemplary punishments’: Army Srinagar, December 09: Maintaining that army was committed to ensure zero tolerance for human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir, a senior army official Monday said that 124 troopers and officers, found guilty of rights abuses were awarded exemplary punishments during the last 20 years. GOC-in-C, Northern Command, Lt Gen Sanjiv Chachra, according to a statement issued to GNS by the army spokesman here on Monday said that during the past 20 yrs, 1524 allegations of HR violations against Army personnel serving in Northern Command were received. “Each and every allegation was enquired into by an independent and autonomous body and 42 of these allegations were found to be true. 124 personnel (41 officers, 83 JCOs/OR) found guilty of these violations were expeditiously tried by Army courts and awarded exemplary punishments ranging from dismissal from service without any service benefits to imprisonment,” Chachra said. He said that few ongoing cases See Army on Pg. 11
Inside story Div Com visits Drass, Kargil In order to take stock of pace of developmental activities besides stock and supply position of Kargil district. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Mr. Shalindra Kumar left for three days tour to Kargil district today. Mr. Kumar met cross section of people at Drass and enquired
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On Edit Page
Yesterday the anti corruption day was celebrated which aimed to free the society or societies from the menace of corruption. Corruption is a disease more
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WEATHER
FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:
Weather will be mainly dry over the State.
FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:
Mainly Clear Sky. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 14°C & -2°C respectively.
TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM 13.2 0C MINIMUM -0.8 0C SUNSET ON(TUESDAY) 05:23 pm 07:27 am SUNRISE ON (WED)
Private sector plays important role in education sector
an sc s e gl ife tin ong l a E l pro See More On Page 07
Congress will be routed in J&K: Kamal Ruling National Conference Monday said that for the betterment of Kashmiri people it wants to extend hand of friendship to Mirwaiz Umar Farooq but unfortunately, Mirwaiz continues to spit venom against NC for the reasons better known to him. “Our party even Chief Minister Omar Abdullah wants to bridge the gap between NC and Awami Action Committee. National Conference is keen to revive the ‘Double Farooq Accord’. Time has come that we show united face to meet the challenges of our common foe who is Mufti Muhammad Sayeed,” NC legislator and former Minister Dr
Shiekh Mustafa Kamal told Srinagar based news agency CNS adding that Mirwaiz should not attack NC without any reason. Kamal said that the accord between NC and ACC is not impossible. “History is witness to the fact that NC and ACC joined hands at least twice in past. There was Double Farooq Accord and even both the parties reached at consensus during Municipal elections when Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah was the Chief Minister,” he said. Advising Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to stop targeting National Conference, Kamal said that very few people know that during double Farooq Accord, two of the candidates, father
of present MLA Zadibal Pir Muhammad Shafi and Muhammad Shafi Khan who won on NC ticket were ACC candidates. “NC is sincere and wants friendly relations with ACC and time has come for Mirwaiz to ponder over the issue,” he said adding that National Conference always tried to own Mirwaiz led ACC but it is they who play politics and exploit people in the name of religion. Kamal lashed out Mirwaiz led Hurriyat Conference saying that no mainstream politician dares to visit Old City as Hurriyat has created different groups of youth which indulge in violence and stonepelting. “People don’t agree with Mirwaiz’s politics. It
CM for encouraging extracurricular activities Jammu, December 09: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Monday emphasized the need for encouraging extra-curricular activities in the State and nurturing the talent in this field from the early age. “Schools while concentrating on making the children academically excellent should devote due attention to imbibe moral education in them and flourish their natural talent in different fields of art, culture and sports”, he said and underscored the importance of identifying the talent at the young age and facilitating them to catch the opportunities to prove their mettle and ability at the State and the National levels. The Chief Minister said this while interacting with the young singer Anmol Jaswal of Jammu who has won the National Junior Indian Idol
first runners-up award in singing competition organized by Private Television Channel. Omar Abdullah gave him a cheque for Rs. 51,000 to encourage him for receiving further training in the field and
area and various measures are in place to help nurture the talent in the field of extra-curricular activities. He said the Department of Culture is providing various platforms to children and youth to
participating in other such National events. He prayed for best career and all success for the Master Anmol. Minister for Culture, Raman Bhalla who was also present on the occasion said that development of art, culture and sports activities is the focused
excel and take part in the State and National level events. He also congratulated the young boy for his noteworthy performance at the National level. He expressed the hope that he will continue to perform at the National level and earn laurels to the State.
‘Hanging Afzal Guru has not helped Congress’ Srinagar, Dec 09:
Corruption- A menace destroying our society
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‘Ready and keen to have friendship with Mirwaiz’ Srinagar, December 09:
President Awami Ittihaad Party (AIP) and MLA Langate Er Rashid has said that Congress's 'hanging Afzal Guru card' has miserably failed to make any impact on Indian voters in the recently concluded assembly elections held in four states. Addressing his party workers in Srinagar today he said that all those who wanted to get political mileage out of sufferings and miseries of Kashmir should get a lesson, that common masses are showing maturity everywhere and are wiser enough to make difference between vested interest and national interest. He said. "Congress had hanged Afzal Guru just
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give a cover to its failures at all fronts and exploit people to prove itself more Nationalist than BJP. The act was a desperate attempt to counter Modi wave and raise sympathy by proving that Congress dares to kill Afzal Guru, just to please a small chunk of radicals. The results have proven that people of India are not interested in getting influenced by hallow nationalist slogans but want solution to their genuine problems. The results show a trend and tendency that the common people of India have begun to realize that atrocities on Kashmiri people including hanging of Afzal Guru have nothing to do with patriotism." He further said that See Hanging on Pg. 11
is a fact that NC always bags all the seats from Srinagar in Assembly elections. When people elect our candidates then how come Mirwaiz or ACC can claim that NC looted the resources of Kashmir Valley and ignored See Ready on Pg. 11
Railways conduct trial run of UdhampurKatra train Katra, December 09: Railway authorities in Katra have carried out a trial run of a newly constructed railway line that has been built for improving connectivity in the Kashmir Valley. "The trial run was conducted using Departmental and Materials Train (DMT). It is helping in placing concrete on the track. The train will have 53 wagons. The work will go on for another five to seven days. Very soon the people will be able to travel," said Sanjay Kumar Gaur, a guard at the Jammu headquarters of the Railways. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is likely to inaugurate the railway line in January. On December 7, railway authorities successfully ran a light power engine from Udhampur District to the town of Katra.
Traffic inspector Rajeev Sabarwal said: "The railway administration will decide when to start the service. We may conduct two more trial runs. We are waiting for authorisation from the Centre for a railway information systems officer. After the authorisation, the administration will decide the date." The 25-kilometre stretch between Udhampur and Katra is under construction, and once operational, the track would provide direct connectivity to Katra. It would be beneficial for those visiting Vaishno Devi. The train service was announced in this year's Railway Budget. While several other trains have already been started, the commencement of this train is awaited. A survey on the project was conducted in 1998, but See Railways on Pg. 11
People Realizing Value of Democratic Competition: Mehbooba ‘Interests of border areas crucial to PDP’s vision’ Srinagar, December 09: Peoples Democratic Party president, Mehbooba Mufti has said in spite of having voted continuously for the National Conference, over last 40 years, backward areas like Karnah, Kupwara and Gurez are languishing in almost in Stone Age, because of lack of infrastructure. Addressing a largely attended public meeting at Taad area of Karnah constituency near Line of Actual Control, she said the interests of residents of border areas are crucial to her party’s vision of making Jammu and Kashmir a bridge between India and Pakistan and lifting the post independence siege laid around the state. On this occasion the party chief spokesperson, Naeem Akhtar, senior leader and MLA Abdul Haq Khan and state secretary, Zaffar Iqbal
Manhas, Raja Manzoor, Javaid Mirchal, Ghulam Mohammad Mir, Fayaz Ahmad Mir and others were present and spoke on the occasion. On the occasion
women and youth. Mehbooba said the infrastructure problems in Tangdhar sub division have remained completely unattended, perhaps because of the uninter-
a respectable and prominent citizen from the area, Mohammad Ashraf Bhat joined the party. On way from Tangdhar to Taad, Mehbooba addressed a number of way side meetings mostly compromising
rupted run of the National Conference which emerged winner from this area for most part of its history, because of emotional exploitation and, lately it benefited from fragmentation of the opposition vote.
Valley reels under darkness, Power Minster blames people Srinagar, December 09: Stating that people are responsible for the power mess in Kashmir, Minister for Power and Information, Monday said that until and unless people desist from power thefts, the electricity scenario of the valley will not get better. He also said that the department will soon start a massive drive against the power thefts. “The total capacity of the receiving stations within the Kashmir division is about 900 to 1000 MW and the department provides the same but unfortunately people do not desist from theft and hooking which is the main hurdle in smooth supply of electricity,” Minister for Power and Information, Vikar Rasool told KNS. “We have decided to start massive drive against those who are involved in hooking and power theft as government is committed to make every endeavor to improve power scenario in the valley,” he
added. Further explaining the power crises he said, “It is easy to blame the Department for everything but people should realize that they use more electricity than required and waste the power unnecessarily. There are a number of consumers who do not pay their electricity bills. We have decided to cut the supply of such consumers,”. Urging the people to decrease the huge wastage of power he said that people should forget the habit of wasting the power. “The people waste electricity in a number of forms whether it is putting on more bulbs then required or leaving the electric gadgets on. People should raise less hue and cries over unscheduled cuts and ponder more over the importance of power that gets
wasted, there would be less darker days if they realize it,”. Pertinently a severe electricity crisis has gripped in Srinagar and many areas, compelling people to take to the streets to protest against the power cuts. Every day in the Srinagar city people came out of their homes and agitated on the streets amid long spells of darkness. Meanwhile a fresh protest was witnessed on Monday against the Power Development Department for failing to maintain the power schedule. According to reports scores of residents of Noor Bagh, Rajouri Kadal, Bemina, Qamarwari and Chatabal demonstrated on the streets and blamed PDD for power cut in the areas.
She said the people of the area are now realizing the value of democratic competition, as with the shape of the PDP their problems are getting projected. “The people of Karnah constituency have overwhelming rejected the NC even in 2008 election, as its candidates got only four thousand votes, as against more than 18 thousand votes polled by its opponents, which were invalidated because of fragmentation. Now the people are realizing that it is only through unity among the anti-NC voters that the party can be defeated,” she said. Mehbooba said the development agenda for Karnah constituency, has remained unchanged for the last half century or more, because of failure of the NC to deliver. She said the internal roads in the subdivision present See Mehbooba on Pg. 11
Delhi results encouraging: Mirwaiz Srinagar, December 09: Commenting on the results of recently held elections in Delhi the capital of India, Chairman Hurriyat Conference (M) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said that the results are encouraging in the sense that people of India appears to have shunned traditional mindset created by the Political Parties about the affairs and issues that India is facing. Talking to KNS, the Mirwaiz said the traditional approach is veining and a new pragmatic approach consistent with the current global realities is taking its place. “A fresh wind of change is blowing and we hope that this changed thinking and approach adopted by the people of India will reflect in the functioning of the Aam Admi Party (AAP) See Mirwaiz on Pg. 11
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Srinagar city,” Kamal said. Responding to a query, Kamal said that Congress party in coming Assembly elections will be routed badly and it will get only 4 seats that too with the help of certain Agencies. “This party (Congress) will get defeated everywhere in India including Jammu and Kashmir. Some of its members will win with the help of certain Agencies. One of the State Minister of Congress always make it with the help of Army in Assembly elections,” Kamal said adding that it is unfortunate that with the help of few odd seats this party shares power in the State of Jammu and Kashmir.
Railways.........
the groundwork started in 1999 setting 2005 as deadline to connect Katra, with the rest of the country. The construction work, however, came to a halt in 2006 when engineers came across a water body in the middle of the alignment of the 2.4 km long tunnel and the design of the tunnel had to be changed. Around 80 per cent of the route runs through tunnels and bridges and the terrain is so tough that the engineers along with ancillary workers faced lot of geological challenges due to which work got delayed.
Mehbooba........
a picture of devastation and people living along the roads have developed chest diseases, because of the dust generated by traffic over them. She said huge money allocated for these projects like the road from Tangdhar to Gabra or Teetawl have clearly been misappropriated. “This money has straight away into the pockets of the ruling party leaders and their agents. She said the health facilities in the area should have received priority because of difficult terrain but the main hospital there does not have even X-Ray facility The newly constructed hospital building has developed cracks putting at risk of lives of patients and medical staff. The school in the area has been completely neglected and students are forced to seek admission in far away Srinagar. Mehbooba said, though, as a result of mounting public pressure some mobile service providers including the BSNL extended their services to Tangdhar, but many areas are still craving for the facility. Even in Tangdhar proper the networks don’t work satisfactorily. Mehbooba said the destiny of the people in border areas is largely linked to the success of the vision provided by the PDP to make the LoC irrelevant. She said the people residing in these areas are the pillars of our concept to convert J&K into a bridge between India and Pakistan. She assured the people that PDP will construct a tunnel to connect the border area with rest of the valley. Mehbooba regretted the irrigation canals, in the area have been left unattended, which were damaged by the flash floods in 1994 and the roads under PMGSY are incomplete because of contractor-politician nexus. The area is facing huge power crisis and promises made about starting a hydel project in the area has never been fulfilled. The PDP president said her party envisions a day when people could travel through the Teetwal, between two parts of J&K in their own vehicles. She said the present facility of contact point in Teetwal, would in due course develop into a full fledge travel and trade link opening up the area to economic opportunities and employment generation.
Mirwaiz...........
which has emerged as a symbol of the change.” The Hurriyat (M) added that he hopes that this pragmatism will reflect in the attitude regarding Kashmir issue as well and the new thinking and new setup will adopt a realistic policy on Kashmir based on the principles of justice and fairplay and shun the unrealistic inhibitions on the issue.
Hanging..........
collaborators of Congress in J&K can't run away from the responsibility in hanging Afzal Guru and should be prepared now to face the same consequences what Congress has faced in four states. It is high time for all these forces to understand that it is not Delhi or the brutal actors, anywhere, in any form, that can decide that who should be in or out of power, but the people are the best judge anywhere including in Jammu and Kashmir, he added further.
Army..........
were being closely monitored, ensuring rule of law and proceedings as enunciated by the Army Act. He also directed all troops in the state to ensure zero human rights violations during conduct of counter militancy operations. “Anyone found guilty shall face the law. This amply demonstrates that all cases of alleged human rights violations are thoroughly investigated and personnel found guilty are promptly punished,” the GOC said. “We are a people’s army where we respect human life and take pride in our benevolent attitude towards women and children. This should continue to remain enshrined in our ethos and daily lives,” he added. Chachra said that a capsule on the importance of respect for human rights is also conducted for troops undergoing preinduction training at various battle schools.
Govt directs to use electrical fittings as per ECA Jammu, December 09: In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 16 of the J&K Energy Conservation Act, 2011 (ECA) (Act No. XIV of 2011), the government has made mandatory for all offices, autonomous bodies and corporations that all new purchases in above mentioned offices shall use of 4 Star and above rated electrical fittings, appliances, air conditioners and heaters. In case of
existing government offices, autonomous bodies and Government Undertaking Corporations whenever old electrical fittings and appliances, air conditioners, heaters are being replaced, the same shall be replaced with 4 star and above labelled electrical fittings, appliances, air conditioners, heaters with immediate effect. The order shall come into force with immediate effect.
Daily
People should celebrate Kejriwal’s win: Mehbooba ‘People outside J&K fortunate to have free and fair elections’ Srinagar, December 09: Stating that people should celebrate Aam Admi Party (AAP) debut win in Delhi elections, Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said that people in rest of the country are fortunate to have free and fair elections. “I think people should celebrate Arvind Kejriwal’s success. He seems to be very clean and honest person. I am really happy for him that people have voted for him and his party in elections,” she told KNS. Mehbooba said since 1951, there are very few elections which were held in Jammu and Kashmir without any manipulations and political maneuvering. “This way the people in rest of the country are fortunate to have free and fair elections. In Kashmir
the National Conference nately the institutions of exploits boycott calls by governance in Jammu and implementing it on Kashmir have been g r o u n d . T h o u g h w e discredited and now time believe that boycotting can tell whether the change elections is a right of the brought in four states will people but they (NC) can permeate to this part of the resort to violence to country or not. “There is a implement the boycott general perception and calls for their political history also is witness to it interests.” that there have been over Referring to the election and covert interferences results of four states during elections in Jammu including Delhi, MPO, and Kashmir. Elections R a j a s t h a n a n d held in 1987 is an instance Chhattisgarh the PDP which can substantiate the president said people want whole argument,” the PDP change in the system of president told KNS. governance. “People are She appealed people to least bothered about the review the political change of guard but what alternatives available to they are interested in is the them on the basis of change in the system of numbers and perforgovernance and eradica- mances they have shown tion of corruption. People in their respective tenures. e x p e c t e v e r y n e w “We leave it to the wisdom government to deliver and judgment of people to justice and make the support the political party institutions strong,” she which they believe can live told KNS. Mehbo oba up to their expectations,” remarked that unfortu- Mehbooba told KNS.
Ratanpuri discuss PMSS with HRD minister Srinagar, December 09: After getting the information, in reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today, that scholarship under PMSSS has been released in favour of only 2858 students of 2012-13 batch and 1502 students of 2013-14 batch, GN Ratanpuri, Member Parliament discussed the matter with HRD Minister Pallamraju. According to a statement issued to KNS, he also discussed the details with Secretary Higher Education, HRD, Ashok Thakur. Ashok Thakur, is also the Chairman of the InterMinisterial Committee, highest decision making body for PMSSS. The Minister and the Secretary both gave the assurance that all the cases are being reviewed and all the bonafide students having taken admission in time but having failed to register online in time will get the scholarship. Similarly the students having taken admission under Management quota, but before the circulation of guidelines will also get it. Ratanpuri raised the matter of students of Ramakrishna Nursing College Gwalior, ACS college of Engineering Bangalore and Hindustan
College of Engineering also and instructions were given to the Chairman AICTE to release scholarship to all the students who have taken admission before Sep 30, 2012 but mentioned it after the due date in online registration due to misunderstanding. All the concerned students and concerned educational institutions have been advised to contact AICTE with proof of their 'in time admission' to get the scholarship. The IMC, in its meeting on 26-112013, has decided that from the academic year 2014-2015, the J&K govt will invite and scrutinize the applications from candidates and upload the duly verified list of eligible candidates on the AICTE website. AICTE will thereafter provide centralized admission to the eligible students for the purpose of implementing the PMSSS. Students who get admission on merit in the Centrally Funded Technical Institutions would be considered for scholarship in addition to the above, this was earlier revealed in Rajya Sabha by Minister HRD, Sh. Pallamraju in reply to Mr. Ratanpuri's questions.
Vikar tours hilly areas of Banihal Banihal, December 09: To ensure early redressal of problems faced by public living in the upper reaches of Banihal, Minister of State for Technical Education and Power Mr Vikar Rasool Wani today started two days foot march of Neel area and laid foundation stone of Food store Druptamorah Neel worth Rs 40 lakhs. During his on foot visit Vikar Rasool visit Gagernaag the last corner of the area and directed the officials of Rural Development and PHE to work hard for the implementations of Govt schemes in these backward areas so that the people can be benefitted. While addressing a mammoth gathering there Vikar Rasool said that his keen interest is to bring
government at the door step of people so that public issues can be settled down among the common man. He assured the public that development of Neel valley is on priority and the promises made by him were given practical shape in phase manner. He said the construction work of PHC building and construction work of remaining portion of BohardaarBhatto road will be started soon as the funds have been already sanctioned. Minister also announces the construction work of community hall at Bhatoo Neel, Transformer for Topan village and Foot Bridge for Bohardaar. He said that complete electrification of the area was a dream which he turned into reality.
Home delivery of LPG be ensured for rural areas: DDC Ang Anantnag, December 09: To ensure home delivery of LPG in rural areas, a meeting was convened today by the District Development Commissioner,Anantnag. The meeting was attended by Additional District D e v e l o p m e n t Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Tehsildars and Assistant Director CA&PD besides LPG dealers of the district. The District Development Commissioner asked the dealers to ensure home delivery for rural areas without any failure. The dealers were asked to give the contact numbers of sub dealers, village and area wise to the Assistant Director CA&PD. The Tehsildars will monitor the rate of LPG regularly and also registration of new connections. Supply of LPG will be ensuring alternately and the Tehsildars will report weekly regarding supply and consumption. It was also impressed up on LPG dealers not to charge extra from the consumers at the delivery points. The consumers can avail the facility area wise on various contact No’s Kiloo Gas Agency, Dooru, Showkat Gas Services Anantnag, L i d d e r Va l l e y G a s Pahalgam, Salam Gas Agency Achabal, Pahalgam Gas Service Pahalgam, Anantnag Gas Agency, Mattan Counter and Srigufwara counter.
ZABARWAN TIMES Ceasefire good gesture: Mian Altaf Says Indo-Pak friendly relations best in the interest of people Poonch, December 09: Terming ceasefire a good gesture, the Minister for Forests Mina Altaf has said that the people living near borders are most beneficial of it. He said people living on border, including Poonch and Rajouri, are among the first who become victims when guns toot on borders, adding friendly Indo-Pak relations are in the best interest of the people of the State. The Minister was addressing at a public gathering at Madla, a border village, in Poonch district today. Mian Altaf said that developmental initiatives taken by the Government across
the state are yielding good results at ground level. He said health, PHE, R&B, Education are getting extraordinary attention, particularly in rural, hilly and border areas. The Minister said that road leading to Madla would be up-graded besides taking in hand other development works. Mina Altaf said that Rs. 81 lakh have been earmarked for infrastructure development in forest sector in Poonch district against which Rs. 57 lakh stands expended so far. He said an inspection hut would be constructed at Madla to ensure effective monitoring of forest activities.
Was Mufti's election and his Pace of dev activities review Chief Ministership also at Khansahib rigged: Tanvir to Mehbooba Budgam, December 09: A
Srinagar, Dec 09: The national conference while reacting to PDP Presidents remarks that people in rest of the country are fortunate to have free and fair election said that she not only insults the electorate of the state by her statements but also puts a huge question mark on not only on the election of her father but also on his becoming the Chief Minister. "Is Mehbooba Mufti suggesting that Mufti Sahib's Chief Ministers ship was also a result of a rigged election" Tanvir told KNS. "Are elections that are only won by PDP fair and others are rigged" asked Tanvir Sadiq political secretary to Omar Abdullah, adding" in that case all the election they won as congress candidates are also rigged and she should come out and admit it"
"She should explain the meeting to review the progress role of Mufti Sayeed in 77 of development activities e l e c t i o n s , w h i c h i s under various sectors in believed to be the most Khansahib Sub-Division was fair election ever" said held here today in which all the Tanvir sectoral officers participated. Hitting at her remarks of The officers of various c o v e r t i n t e r f e r e n c e s departments projected the during elections in Jammu works which have been and Kashmir Elections undertaken by these departheld in 1987 The political ments. The preparedness for secretary said " She cites snow clearance was also this as an instance but discussed and the R&B probably forgets that in 87 officers assured that arrangeher father was the JKPCC ments for snow clearance of president, or does she say main roads as well as the link that the covert interfer- roads have already been ences in those election as finalized. The stock position of alleged by her was on essential commodities was behest of her father?" also discussed. The Forest Tanvir told KNS Officers of the area was asked Asking her to first check to issue timber to needy her fathers track record and his elections then persons in the time bound comment Tanvir said manner in view of winter t h e s e r e m a r k s o n l y season. Further the officers strengthens our argument were asked to remain punctual that she has already in their offices and work for conceded defeat and is the welfare of people of this far looking for ways to justify flung area so that the people of her and her party's this area should not face any imminent defeat in the inconvenience in the winter season. coming elections.
DIPJK-NB: 2379
11 Tuesday, 10 December 2013 From Front Page........
Government of Jammu & Kashmir
Office of the Executive Engineer Sub-Transmission Division Pulwama (Abbreviated) Short Term Tender Notice No: 27/STD/Pul of 2013 Dated: 06/12/2013
For and on behalf of Governor of Jammu and Kashmir sealed tenders duly affixed with six rupees stamps are invited from registered A-Class Electrical Contractors enlisted with CPWD/MES/Railways/DGBPO or Inspection Agency of Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Department for below mentioned work. S. Particular Approx. Qty. Earnest Money Completion No Estimated Cost Period Supply, installation, testing, Rs. 8000/- pledged to commissioning of 33KV Vacuum 1. Rs. 4.00 Lacs 1 No 60 days Executive Engineer STD Circuit breaker complete at Pulwama Receiving Station Lethpora. Tenders should reach to the office of the Executive Engineer Sub-Transmission Division Pulwama (Washbugh) by or before 2.00 pm 20.12.2013 through speed post, registered post and courier or by hand. In case the due date of receipt of tenders falls on Hartal/holiday or the holiday being declared subsequently, the tenders will be received on next working day upto 2.00 PM. The detailed tender document of work can be had from office of undersigned at a cost of Rs. 1000 upto 2 PM 19.12.2013 after demonstration of the following original documents which proves eligibility of the bidder:1. Enlistment card. 2. Tax registration certificate with latest clearance certificate. 3. TIN Registration. The offers received after due date to postal delay or any other reason shall not be entertained. Any request for extension in last date of receipt of tenders is likely to be rejected. In case the due date of receipt of tenders falls on holiday or the holiday being declared subsequently, the tenders will be received on next date. The tenders shall be opened on the next day of last date of receipt or any subsequent day to the convenience of the Tender Opening Committee. The tenderers or their authorized representatives may, if so desire, be present at the time of opening of tenders. The tender opening authority reserves the right to reject any or all tenders without assigning any reasons thereof. Further details can be had from the office of undersigned during the office hours. Sd/- Executive Engineer DIPJK: 11015 Sub-Transmission Division, Pulwama
Owner, Printer & Publisher : Suhail Malik, Editor-n-Chief : Shahana Malik, RNI No: JKBIL/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Published from: Govt. Quarters (M-13) Magarmal Bagh Srinagar -190001, J&K, Printed at: Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No: 09999964750, 9796787844
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Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
Private sector participation plays an important role in the education sector: Guv Jammu, December 09
cultural programme based on the themes of peace, love, brotherhood and women empowerment. He stressed on them to devote high attention to imbibing the students with high cultural and moral values. In appreciation of the very
was received by Surinder Mohan Mehra the Vice Chairman of Shrimati Dewanini V. Badrinath Educational Trust, Dr.Rama Kant Dubey, advisor , Sushiela Narendrajit Singh Vidya Mandir, Lila karan sharma, advisor Dewan Badri Nath Vidya Mandir Ama-
India has a long standing tradition of philanthropy in the field of education which has led to the creation of many Educational Trusts which run good educational institutions. The private educational sector is required to play a much larger role in the coming years, if we are to attain our national objectives. This was stated by N.N. Vohra, Governor during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Shrimati Dewanini Vidyavati Badrinath Educational Trust at General Zorawar Singh Auditorium in Jammu.Governor urged the private sector educational institutions to continue the tradition of spreading education, particularly among the neglected segments of the society. Applauding the contribution of the women teachers in educational institutions, Governor said that this noble cause has been immensely good work done in educational rvilla and Yashpal Puri, advisor benefited by the hardwork, dedi- field by Shrimati Dewanini Vidya- Dewan Badrinath Vidya Mandir Lone News Agency Kangan Educational Trust, Khan Mubarak News Agency cation, devotion and commitment vati Badrinath Mandi.Ganderbal Mohan Isher Vice Souraannounced a grantZahid Book Depot Chadoora of female teachers. Gulzar News Agency the Governor of Chancellor Jammu University acHawal Bashircompanied News Agency He congratulatedTariq theNews stu-Agency rupees one lakh towards sustained the Nowhatta Governor during dents and the staff ofMuzaffar the schools focusAgency on the school children being the News function. A Guard of Honour Ali News Alamgari Bazar Budshah Agency Lal Chowk of Shrimati Dewanini Vidyavati imparted withChowk high cultural and by NCC Boys and Girls contingents Abdullah News Agency Lal Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Badrinath Educational Trust for ethical codes of conduct. and the Girls March Past squad News Agency Chowk Rainawas News AgencytoGund Kangan the presentation of a Gupkari high quality EarlierLalN.N. Vohra, Governor, presented the Governor.
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.Min News Agency Sopore of facilitation and moderation, form of medicine for cattle, feed, Best dairy Shah News Agency Kupwara however, the success of activity de-Sultan and News animalAgency sheds forHandwara BPL families. RKVY an assistance of Rs. pends on Langate concerned people. He alsoSheikhUnder Younis News Agency News Agency Islamabad animals awarded added that with the technologicalThree 20,000 constructing Reshi News Agency Islamabad WayforNews Agencycattle Tralsheds advancement in the field of agriis provided to a BPL family and Rs. News Agency Tral should practise ag-Badru News Agency Bijbehara culture, farmers 5,000-10,000 is provided to a non Budgam, December Turray 09: Rahi News Agency Kulgam Arwani riculture on modern and scientificMalik BPLNews family.Agency Assistance for cattle augmentation is also available. lines for best possible yields. One day awarenessRah camp cumAgency News Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil
Awareness camp & cattle exhibition held in Budgam
exhibition of cattle was organised by Animal Husbandry department Budgam today in the district. District Development Commissioner Budgam after inauguration of the event said that government is trying its best to make agriculture an activity of high returns so that more and more people get associated with it. He said that there are many benefits and incentives to practise any agricultural activity and government plays the role
Giving the details of the progress of the department, the Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir said that the population of cattle in the district is 1,76,685 whereas the milk production in the district is 1,52,000 metric tonnes. As many as 53 Dairy Cooperatives have been formed covering 2,500 families in the district. Under centrally sponsored scheme RKVY, a subsidy of Rs. 45 lakh was disbursed in the last year
As many as 283 farmers were awarded best dairy animals with a prize of mineral mixture, tub and vitamin complex worth Rs. 1,440 and other 283 animals with similar usables worth Rs. 770 each. Under Rural Backward Poultry Scheme, 45 chicks are given free of cost to BPL families and an expenditure of Rs. 70-80,000 has been incurred under this scheme in district Budgam, informed the District Animal Husbandry Officer, Budgam.
Dr. Rama Kant Dubey, advisor Sushiela Narendrajit Singh Vidya Mandir presented the welcome address and gave a brief about the history, mission and goals of the Shrimati Dewanini Vidyavati Badrinath Educational Trust. Lila Karan Sharma, advisor Dewan
The State Apex Committee for Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) headed by Chief Secretary, Mohammad Iqbal Khandey Monday reviewed the status of the implementation
of CCTNS project in the State. CCTNS is a mission mode project under the National e-governance programme aimed at creating a comprehensive and integrated system for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of policing. In J&K initially as many as 190 police
stations have to be brought under the CCTNS project including 2 police headquarters at Srinagar and Jammu, one SCRB at Jammu, 2- zonal offices, 7- range offices, 25 district police offices and 67 SDPO/ASP offices. The Committee was informed that
till date Rs. 9.60 crores have been allocated to the State by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs of which Rs. 5.78 crore have been expended on various components and activities under the project including digitization of case files, training of 3000 personnel in basic computer and role based training, hardware-software
Jammu, December 09: The Committee on Government Assurances of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Monday sought a detailed report about the projects sanctioned under Flood Management Programme from Irrigation & Flood Control Department for the scrutiny of the Committee Members. It also sought detailed report about the Flood Management Programme of district Rajouri. The Committee, which met under the Chairmanship of MLA, Mr. Mohammad Yasin Shah here today, discussed and examined the Action Taken Reports (ATRs) pertaining to PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control Departments of Government Assurances given on the floor of the House from time to time.
The Meeting was attended by the Committee Members Ch. Zulfikar Ali, Syed Basharat Ahmed Bukhari, Mr. Mohammad Irfan Shah and Mr. Javid Ahmed Dar gave their valuable suggestions for further improvement in making quick disposal and fulfilling the Government Assurances well in time. Taking serious note on delaying in fulfilling the Government Assurances, the Committee directed the PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control departments to gear up their field functionaries and fulfill all pending Assurances pertaining to their departments given by them on the floor of the House from time to time in a time bound manner. Detailed deliberations were also held on the de-silting and other works executed under Flood Management
Programme at Takanwari Srinagar, Jagirghat Baramulla and Arun Nallahain Kupwara. While examining the ATRs of Assurance about construction of Crate Bunds along the banks of Kishen Ganga River, the Panel took serious note for not fulfilling the Assurance and directed the department to take immediate measures for achieving the same in a time bound manner. It was informed in the meeting that the Detailed Project Report amounting to Rs. 12.48 crore has been framed in this regard which is in process for funding under FMP. However, till the project is approved some of the damages are being restored by the department during the current financial year and Rs. 30 lakhs has been earmarked under Flood Restoration Programme.
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
You might feel like doing something different today, Aries. Everyone needs a break from the regular grind and this is a good time to try something new. Perhaps you feel like varying your routine. If this is your day off, you might spend the day doing whatever strikes your fancy. Try a new wardrobe style. Go to a movie. Do something to spice up your life today.
Taurus Start your day writing in a journal, Taurus. This provides an avenue to communicate and connect with your inner being. Things you need to do, ambitions, and even challenges can appear while you’re writing, providing a map that you can follow. Even if starting is difficult, stick with it. The words will come if you give it a chance. It can make your day much easier.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Badri Nath Vidya Mandir Amarvilla presented the annual reports of all the three schools managed by the Trust.On the occasion; Governor launched the website of the Shrimati Dewanini Vidyavati Badrinath Educational Trust and gave away awards to Dr. Baljeet Singh, Principal D.B.N. Amarviila,
Social work award was given to Pankaja whereas Suresh Sharma, Director Academics was presented Dynamic Leadership award. On the conclusion of the celebrations, vote of thanks was presented by Rajendra Kakkar, Trustee of Shrimati Dewanini V. Badrinath Educational Trust.
Panjpeer, Baba Kanjupeer, Baba Zahirali, Baba Budhanalishah shrines renovated 20 per cent DA for Wakf employees Jammu, December 09: Minister for Haj and Auqaf Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed, who is also the Chairman of J&K State Wakf Council, chaired 13th meeting of State Wakf Council here today.Legislators, G M Saroori, Mohammad Yasin Shah and B AMagray were also present in the meeting.Addressing the meeting the Minister asked the concerned for preparing an inventory of Wakf land and property ensuring its protection and preservation and put to better use. Calling upon the concerned to work with missionary zeal to protect the property and use the same to create more assets for improving revenue returns, Peerzada said Wakf is both a department and a religious organization and
installation besides BSNL connectivity arrangements. The Chief Secretary on the occasion called for accelerating the implementation process and removing bottlenecks hindering its timely completion. He said modernization of the state police apparatus is necessary to handle large amount of information and huge volume of records adding that it will definitely help in the overall improvement of service delivery mechanism of our police force besides bridging gap between public and the police through citizen friendly and alternate modes of communication. In addition, it was informed that J&K Police is soon going to launch a Citizens Portal whereby citizens can avail as many as nine public services including online registration of public complaints, passport verification, tracking applications etc. Principal Secretary Home, Suresh Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Information Technology, Bipul Pathak and other officers were present in the meeting.
Assembly panel seeks report about sanctioned projects under Flood Management
10. 11 .2013
April 20-May 20
CS reviews implementation of J&K Police e-governance project Jammu, December 09:
Indu Puri, Principal D.B.N Mubarak Mandi, Neelam Sabharwal, Principal, Sushiela Narendrajit Singh Vidya Mandir and Shub Sharma Headmaster and in charge Nursery for the Life Time Best Teachers. This award was also conferred upon Jaininder Jain posthumously.
SRINAGAR | TUESDAY
has a lot of assets which could be utilized for the welfare of community. He asked the administrators and tehsil Auqaf officers to identify Auqaf land in their respective areas with business point of view and put to better use, saying that it would generate employment avenues for the un-employed and improve financial health of the department as well. Peerzada directed constituting sub-committees for all major works and involving locals in the development and maintenance of Muslim Waqf properties. He asked for constituting sub-committee on Education to look into the aspects of improving the status of schools being run by Waqf Board and setting-up of Madrassa Board on pattern of other states.
Financial Literacy Workshop held at Shopian Shopian, December 09: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) conducted a Financial Literacy Workshop cum Debate Programme today at Mohammadiya Higher Secondary Institute Shopian. The programme was aimed at spreading financial awareness among students and to encourage financial literacy at basic education level. Chief education officer Shopian on this occasion laid stress on the importance and role of knowledge of credit in today’s education. He said the formal education is incomplete without financial education for achieving a better socioeconomic life. District Manager, NABARD informed students about role of NABARD in financial literacy and said that besides being supporter of agriculture and rural development, NABARD is also playing a pivotal role as a gross root level credit supporter and facilitator along with other institutions. He urged students to take benefit of different schemes aimed at achieving higher education, employment generation and skill development. Later FLCC Coordinator Shopian and LDM Shopian addressed the students regarding role of NABARD and other banks in the field of financial inclusion both at school as well as farm level and urged for proper coordination and support between banking and on banking institutions in this field.Later, prizes were distributed among the students who participated in debate. Chief Education Officer Shopian was chief guest on this occasion, other dignitaries present were District Manager, NABARD Mr. Nisar Ahmad Nisar, LDM Shopian, FLCC Coordinator, Chief Agriculture Officer Shopian and large number of students were also present on the occasion.
Div Com visits Drass, Kargil Inspects developmental works under execution Kargil, December 09: In order to take stock of pace of developmental activities besides stock and supply position of Kargil district.Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Mr. Shalindra Kumar left for three days tour to Kargil district today. Mr. Kumar met cross section of people at Drass and enquired about the availability of basic amenities, health facility and other essential commodities.Accompanied by Executive Councillor for Rural Development, Director Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, Kashmir, Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Su-
perintendent of Police and Sub Divisional Magistrate, Divisional Commissioner interacted with the district and sectoral officers about the developmental scenario apace in the district.Mr. Kumar directed the officers to ensure availability of all consumer goods and streamline the distribution system so as to provide satisfactory ser-
vice to people of the district. Divisional Commissioner said that in view of harsh winter season in the Valley, particularly Kargil, a far flung hilly district, dis-
trict Administration should leave no stone unturned in reaching to people with all necessary facilities. Mr. Kumar directed Revenue authorities to assess the damage caused to crops due to floods of summer season so that compensation to affected farmers would be sanctioned. He directed for extending financial assistance of Rs. 10,000 to a fire victims, Ab. Shakoor of Muradbagh village whose house was damaged by recent fire incident. Divisional Commissioner also issued instructions to local authorities to provide two blankets each family in Mataeen and Pandras villages for winter use. He asked Forest Corporation to stock timber in Drass SubDivision. He also inspected the pace of construction of Zojila tunnel.
You might find it hard to get going, Gemini. Taking direction could rub you the wrong way, especially if you’re set on doing something different. Communicate your ideas and how you want to approach things rather than let irritation get to you. Your approach will be better received if you leave emotions out of it. You may even get kudos for staying calm and collected.
Cancer June 22-July 22
You might feel cheerful and generous today, Cancer. Helping others will probably suit you, and matters will move along smoothly. If there are outstanding projects from earlier, tackle them first. It’s an opportune time to get caught up on challenges. Don’t hesitate to lend a hand if you’re approached or notice someone in need. This will benefit them as well as you.
Leo
July 23-August 22 Make an effort to connect with someone you miss today, Leo. Even if it feels painful at first, you’ll feel a lot better once you do. Pick up the phone, write a note, or send an email. Let the person know you miss and care about him or her. Expressing yourself is often far better than stuffing your feelings. The person may be missing you just as much.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Today may be a time of heightened reasoning and judgment for you, Virgo. What a great way to get things done! Pull out unfinished projects and get going. Tackle issues or problems that have surfaced recently by facing them directly. Make the most of this day’s energy by thinking about ways to do things more efficiently. Be confident that you can handle anything.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Feed your mind today, Libra. The day’s energy supports growth and expansion, so why not see about learning about something you’re interested in? Challenge yourself by reading or taking a class. There are plenty of online subjects to engage you. Find something that interests you that you can do in your own time.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 You’re more into socializing today than anything else, Scorpio. This could be great providing you don’t have a heavy workload. See who’s available and go for it. If you need to get something done, you’ll have to resist the temptation to chat too long. Use breaks for this and keep your focus on getting done what you’ve taken on. There’s always the evening to get together with friends.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
You may find it hard to admit that you can’t do everything, Sagittarius. There are some jobs that you aren’t cut out to do. Why pretend when a better option would be to delegate the task to someone else? If you don’t feel a strong connection with something or someone, don’t force it. Pretending that you’re capable of something will only cause frustration for you and everyone else.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Don’t be surprised if you’re pensive, Capricorn. It’s one of those days when daydreaming can happen more readily. Your imagination may also be at a peak. Rather than fighting this so you can be more productive, jot your ideas down. It may be to your advantage, as better and innovative ways of doing things can pop into your mind. Take time to ponder. It can bring great results.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Chatting with your loved ones may be more appealing to you today than any other day, Aquarius. It may be important to curb this desire if there are many things that need your attention. If you’re at home, don’t spend all your time on the phone or loafing. Consider tending first to things that need to get done. Socializing will be far more enjoyable without guilty feelings about what you should be doing.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 Pisces, you can expect to feel a little more energetic today. In fact, you may run circles around everyone. What a great way to start the day. Head out with the confidence that you can easily handle anything that comes your way. Take time to enjoy the company of others as much as possible. If there are meetings on the agenda, handle them right away.
Editorial/Opinion The Daily
Zabarwan Times Tuesday, 10 December 2013
Corruption- A menace destroying our society
Y
esterday the anti corruption day was celebrated which aimed to free the society or societies from the menace of corruption. Corruption is a disease more dangerous than cancer that is eating our society very badly. Whether corruption on political level, administrative level or social level, it prevails everywhere and is dangerously subjecting every citizen to its net. There is hardly any person particularly in politics and in administration who can be termed as Mr. clean and who can really help in the eradication of corruption. It does not mean that there is dearth of honest officials at any level but they are working in such hostile conditions that they cannot do anything to prevent this menace. India as a whole figure in the first ten corrupt countries followed by Jammu and Kashmir which last year was figuring at number two which is clear indication of the rampant corruption in our society. From government offices to the private institutions, from schools to hospitals and from village level to the capital everywhere the corruption is spreading its wings day by day and the society is becoming sick in all spheres of life. There have been several laws enacted at different times by different governments at central and state level but none of them has succeeded in curbing the corrupt practices, not the question of doing away with them. Whether central government anti corruption agencies or state level agencies all have failed in their endowers because the germs of corruption are thriving in the very blood of the whole society. The stringent laws, the setting up of courts and the remedial measures are proving ineffective because there is less awareness in the society and the spirit of joining hands and standing together against the corruption is missing. There is an urgent need to first create awareness about the menace of corruption and then only we can succeed in our efforts to finish this disease from our society. Unless we do that the efforts at governmental level will not yield results and the corrupt practices will go on thriving and destroying the society. Ours is a democratic country and the people have the right to not only elect honest people but also unite and raise their voice against corruption at all levels. The voice of the people matters more than the stringent laws as it can take the shape of a moment which will definitely yield desired results.
Daily
ZABARWAN TIMES 9
Tuesday, 10 December 2013
Measures to Check Cheating of investors by Unscrupulous Companies
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heating of investors by unscrupulous companies takes many forms, such as: ‘vanishing’ after raising money through public offers; illegal collection of deposits in violation of Section 58A of the Companies Act, 1956; floating sham ‘Collective Investment Schemes (CIS)’ in violation of SEBI Act; collecting money from public by posing as ‘Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in violation of RBI Act; and resorting to ‘Ponzy’ or money circulation schemes under the Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has taken action against ‘vanishing companies’ which have raised funds through initial public offer but thereafter are not traceable. The Ministry has also taken action against certain companies which have failed to repay deposits to public violating Section 58A of the Companies Act, 1956. Complaints of cheating by companies which promised high rates of interests to investors, have been received against 87 companies. In these cases Inspection under Section 209A/ Investigation under Section 234 of the Companies Act, 1956 has been ordered. Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) also looked into the affairs of 669 companies whose operations were in violation of SEBI (Collective Investment Schemes) Regulations, 1999. The amount collected by these companies was about Rs 7,435 crore. Out of these companies, 75 have been wound up and the money refunded to the investors. A total of 552 companies were prosecuted; convictions have been secured in 124 cases. RBI also regulates deposits / investments of the public with Non- banking Finance Companies (NBFC) that are registered with RBI. Complaints received against companies posing as NBFC’s and Unincorporated bodies indulging in cheating / fraud are forwarded by RBI to the Economic Offenses Wing of the State Police for investigation and further action. There are certain companies which have floated fraudulent investment deposits mobilizing schemes (also called ponzi schemes) under various guises and are liable for action under the Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning)
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Act, 1978. This Act is administered by Ministry of Finance (Department of Financial Services) through the State Governments. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has
early establishment of a state-of-art Forensic Lab within the premises of SFIO in the national capital; and the development of a Comprehensive Early Warning System (EWS) for detection of corporate
of Communications and Information Technology; Between Joint Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Director, Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND), an agency under the Ministry of Finance; and Director, SFIO and Director, FIU-IND. As The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has per the Memorandum, NIELIT will set up a state-of-art Forensic Lab within the premises of SFIO - with a total outlay of Rs. constituted a Steering Committee to 3.80 Crore on a turnkey basis, to be two phases. The MoUs completed develop a “Fraud Prediction Model” aimed signed with inFIU-IND will lead to better and faster exchange of information at generating alerts for prevention of fraud between the three Government entities. FIU has been playing a pivotal role in the collection and dissemination of informaand malfeasance. It is also proposed to tion on suspicious banking transactions under the Prevention of Money revamp the existing Market Research & Laundering Act, 2002. FIU-IND has been helping both the Ministry and SFIO from Analysis Unit (MRAU) in the Serious Fraud time to time by supplying information on suspicious banking transactions. Having access to banking information as well as Investigation Office (SFIO) to enable it to expertise of FIU, the MoU will help SFIO in conducting its investigation in a more function as an intelligence unit. Giving a effective manner. These initiatives will facilitate development of a comprehensive fillip to the early establishment of a EWS for detection of fraud and malfeasance at the earliest. The concerned regulatory agencies of the state-of-art Forensic Lab within the Central Government have adopted different measures aimed at sensitizing the premises of SFIO in the national capital; public of the need to be cautious while making investments into schemes, etc. The and the development of a Comprehensive Ministry of Corporate Affairs conducts Investor Awareness Programs (IAP’s) for making the public aware of the various Early Warning System (EWS) for detection instruments of investments available to them. Similarly, RBI issues notice in of corporate fraud and malfeasance at the newspapers regularly to caution the public against the design of entities in collection earliest, three important MoUs have been of deposits illegally. Editors of Newspapers are also sensitized to exercise caution accepting advertisements signed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. pertainingfor to acceptance of deposits by unincorporated bodies. Presently, RBI is in constituted a Steering Committee to fraud and malfeasance at the earliest, the process of undertaking a comprehendevelop a “Fraud Prediction Model” three important MoUs have been signed sive campaign aimed at alerting the public aimed at generating alerts for prevention by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. against falling prey to the Ponzy schemes of fraud and malfeasance. It is also These MoUs are: Between Director, and other monetary mal-practices. SEBI proposed to revamp the existing Market SFIO (which functions under the also conducts Investor Awareness Research & Analysis Unit (MRAU) in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs) and Programs in cities / towns across the Serious Fraud Investigation Office Director, National Institute of Electronics country and has recently launched (SFIO) to enable it to function as an and Information Technology (NIELIT), a publicity campaigns through electronic intelligence unit. Giving a fillip to the scientific organization under the Ministry and print media.
Network of Agromet Service
istrict-level agrometeorological advisory service, providing a 5-day weather forecast for farmers, in 550 districts made operational by the India Meteorological Department is providing information through mobile to about 2,500,000 farmers for planning their agricultural activities. The Agromet Advisory Services through various channels have resulted in significant increases in farm productivity, resulting in increased availability of food and higher income generation. It has helped the farmers not only in increasing their productions but also reducing their losses due to changing weather patterns and others problems. There is need to ensure that all farmers, small, marginal and big, are able to benefit from the Agromet Advisory Services. At present about 15 percent of the farmers are benefitting from the SMS services and about 24 percent farmers are aware about Agromet services. The economic benefit of these services which has been estimated by NCAER at Rs.50,000 crores per year is extrapolated to rise to Rs.211,000 crores if the entire farming community in the country were to apply Agromet information to their agricultural activity. Still no doubt there is a long way to go in not only increasing production but raising the income of farmers and reducing their losses and ultimately distress. It is a challenging task for the Government, IMD as well as the other stake holders to achieve this. However making use of IT and developments in the field of information technology transfer many new initiatives are in pipeline to far reach the AAS service by the IMD. Soon IMD will be launching spoken web service so that farmers across the country can soon get their agriculture and weather-related queries answered and it will also provide an interactive medium
for the farming community which will be of great use to illiterate farmers who are not technologically equipped. Dissemination Disseminating agrometeorological information is part of a process that begins with scientific knowledge and understanding and ends with the evaluation of the information. The task of AAS is to provide information to help farmers make the best possible use of weather and climate resources. For a very long time programme like Krishi Darshan were the only source of information for farmers across the country. In the changing scenario and revolution IT sector the dissemination of information to farmers too is taking multi-channel routes. Good communication and working relationships mechanism have been set up under IAAS with the largest agricultural extension agencies in the country, network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (Agriculture Science Centres), Kisan Call Centre etc., to promote participatory methods for interactions with farmers. Due care is being taken regarding content of the message which must be relevant to the weather based farm decision making by the farmer. This involves the identification of weather & climate sensitive decisions and interactions between the weather forecasters from meteorological Centres of IMD and the agriculture scientists from Agriculture Universities and Institutes of Indian Council of Agriculture Research to develop weather based advisories and technological decisions. Information is disseminated through multi-modes. It includes All India Radio, Doordarshan, Print Media (local news paper in different vernacular languages), internet as well as group and individual relationships through email, telephone etc. The use of media such as mobile, e-mail or the Internet by the farming community is on significant rise. SMS and voice messages on mobiles are
the latest techniques to reach out to the farmers. Of late encouraged by many State Governments Maharashtra, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala, many private firms started disseminating advisories through SMS to the farming community under PPP mode. Like Reuter Market Light, Handygo, Vritti Solution, IFFCO Kisan Sanchar Limited (IKSL) and Nokia are disseminating the agromet advisories through SMS and Interactive Voice over cell phone to farmers at 15 states namely Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, West Bengal, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh. State Department of Agriculture, Government of Maharashtra has taken an active role in disseminating advisory in local language through SMS to the farming community of Maharashtra. At present 2.8 million farmers are benefited by this service. Awareness Programmne As the interaction between the weather and agriculture is complex, it is not just a case of applying a simple solution and expecting the same to be implemented by the farmers. More targeted weather and climate information can increase preparedness and lead to better economic, social, and environmental outcomes for farmers. Given the current concerns with climate change and it’s impacts on crop productivity, there is an urgent need to sensitize the farmers about the projected climate change in their regions and the different adaptation strategies that can be considered to cope with the projected change. Hence, awareness process to understand the influence of weather and changing climate on sustainable agricultural production is an integral part of the service. Under IAAS, awareness programs for farmers highlight
the farming community about the climate change and its impact on agriculture are being conducted. 76 such programs have been conducted across the country so far. Feedback Regular feedback from farmers, State Agricultural Departments and Agricultural Universities, ICAR and other related Institutes is being collected and processed for further improvement of services. Feedback informations are collected from Regional and stations of DD, AIR, and FM channels, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, ATMA, CSCs, NGOs, VRCs and VKCs and by participating in kisan melas and field visits. India Meteorological Department (IMD) in collaboration with AMFUs, SAUs, IITs etc., also published Agromet Brochure in 14 regional languages highlighting the activities of IAAS. Impact Assessment Impact assessment of weather forecast based agro-advisory service shows that in most of the cases use of AAS advisories resulted in decline in the cost of cultivation up to 25% for the study crops. In some cases, cost of cultivation did increase up to 10% as a result of follow up action on AAS advisories, but this was more than offset by the consequent increase in net returns up to 83%, with a modal value of 20%. The major crops which benefited most from the use of AAS service are paddy, wheat, pearl millet and fruits and vegetables. This proves the usefulness of AAS advisories. This also endorses the need for dissemination of Integrated AgroMeteorological Advisory Service (IAAS) information to farmers on a wider scale and convincing them about its positive impacts on a sustainable basis. Equally important but the most challenging task would be to enhance the accuracy of weather forecast and to make the AAS more useful and demand-driven for the farm households.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer.