Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 14 January

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TUESDAY

14 January | 2014 | 12 Rabi-Al-Awwal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

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VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 14 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)

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

French first lady hospitalized after Hollande’s affair report

Every award is important to me

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Srinagar, Jan 13, CNS: At least one person died and another was critically injured when a speedy tipper hit a Maruti van near Baraso Ganderbal in Central Kashmir on Monday morning.

Police sources told CNS that a tipper (JK15-2447) driven by driver Ghulam Muhammad Parra son of Abdul Jabbar resident of Sumbal hit a Maruti van (JK01P-3900) that resulted in the death of Maruti driver Ghulam Nabi Parra son of Abdul Qadir resident of Pandach Ganderbal.

Another person Ghulam Ahmed Malik son of Ghulam Hasan resident of Preng Kangan was shifted to SKIMS in critical condition. Police arrested the erring driver and registered a case vide FIR number 2/2014 under section 379, 337 and 427 of RPC. (CNS)

Traffic police organizes rally, cultural shows in Srinagar Srinagar, Jan 13 (KNS): Traffic police City Srinagar organized a Motor Cycle Rally of students, traffic police contingents which was flagged off by Shri Haseeb-Ur-Rehman, SP Traffic City Srinagar at Hyderpora Bye pass which passed through heart of the City and concluded near GPO Opposite RTHQ office.

In addition to it a cultural programme was organized near GPO office in which prominent artists took active role and the cultural programme remained functional during the day. In the afternoon session Nukked Show See Traffic On Page 11..

Now we can breathe in space also

India a Polio Free Country WHO praises Azad for his historic performance Azad launches indigenously developed Diabetes Screening System New Delhi, 13 January: India has become a totally Polio Free Country curtersy all out efforts of G.N.Azad heading the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. WHO appreciating the historic moments said that Azad nodoubt is the most successful health Minister of India since 1947. Known for his workaholic Azad has left no stone unturned to achieve the goal of Health for all by 2020.

Meanwhile, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Ghulam Nabi Azad today announced that not a single case of wild polio has been reported from any part of the country since the past three years. Azad said that 36 months ago the last case was reported on 13th Jan, 2011 when

a two year old girl suffered polio paralysis in Howrah district of West Bengal. Until 2009, India accounted for more than half the world’s polio incidence. While 741 cases reported in 2009, 42 in 2010 and just one case in 2011.

The Health Minister further stated that it is a matter of great pride for all of us. He said that this monumental milestone was made possible due to unwavering political will at the highest levels, commitment of adequate financial resources, technological innovations like the bivalent vaccine and tireless efforts of millions of workers, including more than 23 lakh vaccinators and volunteers, and more than 1.5 lakh supervisors. The official announcement

Srinagar, Jan 13: (GNS) A top Commander of Jash-e-Mohammad (JeM) was among three militants killed and two army men injured Monday in an encounter with army and SOG in Sopore area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

Official sources told GNS that acting on specific information about the presence of a group of militants, army’s 22 Rashtriya Rifles, paratroopers and SOG this afternoon laid a cordon around Hajam Mohalla in Dooru area of the Sopore town.

Announcements were made through public address system in the locality asking the people to come out of their

State witnessing visible developmental transformation: Gurezi

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On Edit Page Eid Milad- un -Nabi -a day of introspection Today we are celebrating Eid Miladun-nabi (peace be upon him). This auspicious day has come with all blessings and kindness of almighty on the humanity as the Prophet of Prophets Hazrat Mohammad (SAW) was born on this day in the land of Arab which till then was ruled by anarchy and nothing was visible except darkness. As soon as Prophet Mohammad was born a new dawn was witnessed by the whole world and the beginning of a movement called Islam started.

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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

Light rain/snow would occur at isolated places over the state

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

Partly cloudy sky. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 7°C & -2°C respectively.

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TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM MINIMUM SUNSET ON(MONDAY) SUNRISE ON (TUESDAY)

8.4 0C -1.1 0C 05:44 PM 07:37 AM

of a polio free nation will be made on 11 February 2014, he stated.

The Health Minister said that India’s unprecedented progress against polio will pave the way for polio free certification of the entire South East Asia Region of WHO in the first quarter of 2014.

Another success story credited to Azad was today’s launch of indigenously developed Diabetes Screening System and Test Strips.

The indigenous product developed

by Birla Institute of Technology, Hyderabad and IIT, Mumbai will be manufactured by M/s Biosense Technologies.

Azad said that indigenously developed screening system See India On Page 11..

3 JeM militants killed, 2 soldiers injured in Sopore gunfight

Inside story

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 13: Minister of State for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi has said that noteworthy achievements have been registered by the Government during the last five years in all sectors. Mr. Gurezi said various innovative measures have been taken in this regard and crores of rupees are being spent on various on-going micro and macro developmental projects under different sectors in the State.Minister was speaking in series of public meetings at different places including Gurez House Bemina in Srinagar during his tour today.

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Presides over CSC meeting at Banquet Hall Sgr

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Road accident claims drivers life

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houses. The militants hiding in the residential house of one Ghulam Mohammad Pal opened fire at the forces when they made advances. The joint team returned the fire, triggering a fierce encounter. Two army men identified as Sepoy Ajit Kafoor (belt no. 2502628 W) and S Pradhan (15498789 M) suffered injuries in the initial exchange of fire.

Later, paratroopers fought close battle with the holed up militants. The forces cordoned off at least three residential houses before carrying out full-fledged assault leading to the killing of three militants. All of them are said to be foreigners and have been See Sopore On Page 11..

Creation of new administrative units a fixed match: Beigh

Adulterated Aaloo, Nadru Munji Be cautious while taking Kashmiri snacks: SMC

‘Make Ganaie, Biloria reports public’ Srinagar, Jan 13 (KNS): Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) Monday accused that the ruling party has failed on all fronts of governance and that the creation of new administrative units in the state is nothing but another fraud being played on people of the state and a match that already has been fixed.

“The exercise on the face of it is only an attempt to put up a facade for ruling parties’ designs to use the creation of new units for political purposes. Having failed on all fronts of governance the ruling party is now desperately trying to subvert the system to secure some seats for some influential politicians at a huge price to administrative system,” said PDP senior leader Muzaffar Beigh while addressing press conference here.

Beigh according to KNS correspondent stated further that for some time now, as elections draw near, the ruling parties seems to have gone into an overdrive on the subject. The cabinet subcommittee has made some ‘cosmetic’ appearances at some select places for so called interaction to elicit people's views.

“It is beyond comprehension as to how common people or their representatives could offer their views without knowing the contents of the report or its recommendation.”

Beigh maintained further that the exercise on the face of it is only an attempt to put up a facade for ruling parties’ designs to use the creation of new units for political purposes.

“Having failed on all fronts of governance the ruling party is now desperately trying to subvert the system to secure some seats for some influential politicians at a huge price to administrative system.”

The former deputy chief minster stated that the ‘insincerity’ of the ruling parties in attempting to create new administrative units, at this stage, without putting in public domain the reports of experts and without discussing the same in the state legislature, is heightened by the facts that the statutory institutions like Panchayats have remained defunct because of the ‘callous and unforgivable failure’ of the See Beigh On Page 11..

Srinagar, Jan 13: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) on Monday cautioned people who take Nadru, Aaloo Munji (Kashmiri snacks) because the corporation has registered cases against a few vendors allegedly using industrial dye and other coloring agents in their preparations.

Talking to KNS, Dr Shafqat Khan, health officer SMC, said that during a routine inspection of food items in Srinagar City at three places--Hazratbal Naqashband Sahib and Dastigeer Sahib industrial dye (not fit for human use) was found to be used in preparation of Nudru and Alloo Munji local Kashmiri snacks.

According to Dr Khan, the Food items were destroyed on spot and challans was framed against the offenders.In another case, he told KNS that a trader See Smc On Page 11..

Governor, CM, Azad, Mufti greet people on Eid-i-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) Jammu, Jan 13: Governor, N. N. Vohra, has greeted the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious occasion of Eid-i-Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) and expressed sincere hope that this auspicious occasion would be the harbinger of harmony, peace, progress and prosperity in the State.

In a message of greetings, the Governor said that Islam teaches us the values of brotherhood, simplicity, compassion and morality, all of which need to be vigorously inculcated in today’s trouble torn world.

The Governor prayed for the well-being and happiness of the people of the State.

Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah has felicitated people on Eid-i-Milad-un-Nabi

(SAW) wishing them happiness and prosperity.

In a greetings message issued here today, the Chief Minister said that the Birthday of Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) provides us opportunity to pray and seek forgiveness and blessings from the Almighty for the entire mankind.

“Let the day be harbinger of peace and development for the State and the Country”, Omar prayed.

Union Health & Family Welfare Minister G.N Azad has greeted the people on the very auspicious occasion of Eid-i-Miladun-Nabi (SAW), which is being celebrated today.

In his message Azad said we all should follow the teachings of Prophet Muham-

mad (SAW) and love and respect everyone in the world irrespective of caste, creed and colour.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and party president Mehbooba Mufti have greeted the people on the auspicious occasion of Eid Milad-Un-Nabi.

In their message the PDP leaders said that Islam, as a religion of peace and brotherhood, has been brought to us through the Holy Prophet (SAW), whose life was an embodiment of love, equality and brotherhood. They said the auspicious occasion provides us an opportunity to pray and seek forgiveness and blessings from the Allah for the entire humanity.

PDP-NC verbal brawl in CSC

Mir demanded, another district, 2 Nayabats for each constituency in Srinagar should two Nayabats for each PDP new in politics; constituency of this district. should comprehend This infuriated National Conference Provincial President Nasir meeting agendas: Aslam Wani which caused Mir to walk out from the meeting. Mir Nasir Srinagar, Jan 13 (KNS): As the cabinet Sub- Committee on administrative units held its meeting in Srinagar on Monday, the two senior leaders of NC and opposition PDP exchanged heated arguments over demands for carving out of a new district from district Srinagar.

According to KNS correspondent the Cabinet Sub- Committee meeting over the creation of new administrative units in the state met here on Monday under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minster Tara Chand. Besides state ministers, senior leaders and legislators of both NC and PDP attended the meet.

During the meeting, PDP senior leader and MLC Mohammad Ashraf Mir demanded creation of a new district out of the existing Srinagar city. H said that there

while talking to KNS stated that he had put forth the demand before the cabinet sub- committee that Srinagar should have two district offices so that the people at large could be benefitted.

“When there is a district office for two constituencies in Ganderbal, why there can’t be two district offices for the eight constituencies of Srinagar,” said Mir, adding that he also demanded that two Nayabts must be given to each constituency of the city.

Commenting over the tussle between him and NC provincial president, Mir stated that NC Nasir interrupted him several times during his speech and that he started ‘discussing politics in the meeting’. “He started delivering lecture on the achievements of Omar Abdullah and I protested saying that we See Nasir On Page 11..

Soz misleading people Congress members elected through rigging: Kamal Srinagar, Jan 13, CNS: Coming down heavily on State Congress president for sounding ‘false rigging alarm’, National Conference Monday said that history is witness to the fact that Congress party in past bagged assembly or Parliament seats with the help of New Delhi and Security Forces operating in Kashmir.

National Conference legislator and Additional General Secretary Dr Shiekh Mustafa Kamal told Srinagar based news gathering agency CNS that State Congress president Professor Saif-u-Din Soz is not only trying to tarnish the sanctity of Election Commission which is an autonomous body but has also forgot the fact that it is his party which secures few seats by coercive means.

“He (Soz) is misleading people. We all know how his party members make it to the Assembly. Security Forces operating in Kashmir help Congress to gain some seats in State and more ever this party is patronized by New Delhi as

well,” Kamal said adding that it is unfortunate that this (Congress) party shares power with single largest party despite the fact that people elect few odd members of this party for Assembly.

Kamal also castigated Soz for his remarks over General V.K.Singh and said that Soz has no authority to raise finger over Legislative Council. “If Legislative Council has summoned India’s former Army Chief then who is Soz and why he is dictating terms and suggesting that ‘such man of caliber’ should not be summoned,” he said adding that why Soz remained silent why legislative Council took a See Kamal On Page 11..

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11

Zabarwan Times

Tuesday 14 January 2014

From the front page

India and strips will significantly lower costs and thereby dramatically increase accessibility and equity in terms of diagnosis and control of Diabetes and have a tremendous socio-economic impact throughout the country. Today’s launch will make screening for blood sugar affordable to millions by achieving our target of a price below Rs. 5.00, less than 20% of the lowest priced strips currently available in the market, he said.

These new technologies have a clear potential applicability to nearly 13 crore Indians who are diabetics or pre-diabetics today.

In the long run, it is expected that these will go a long way in helping the programme as well as communities for early detection of diabetes in the country. These indigenously developed devices and testing strips will make the screening and detection of diabetes at mass scale feasible and affordable. With this launch, the journey begins towards self-reliance of India in its fight again rapidly growing challenge of diabetes.

Speaking at the occasion, Azad said that among the Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs), Diabetes mellitus is rapidly rising all over the world and all countries. Globally, it is estimated that there are about 382 million people living with diabetes. India alone is reported to have more than 65 million cases of diabetes, second largest number of diabetic patients after China. The Minister expressed concern that with an estimated 175 million people (nearly 50% of known diabetics) currently un-diagnosed, a vast number are simply unaware of their condition and progressing towards complications without any effort at control or treatment.

The Health Minister statedthat India entered into a paradigm shift, by launching the National Programme on Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, CVDs, and Stroke in the year 2010 in 100 selected districts taken up initially as pilot project across 21 States.This was done to accord the highest priority to the prevention, early detection, treatment and control of NCDs by creating awareness about these diseases through print and electronic IEC, providing funds for up-scaling infrastructure and human resource.

Azad noted that under the National Programme on Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, CVDs, and Stroke, more than 53 million persons for Diabetes and more than 50 million for hypertension have already been screened. 29,000 Glucometers, 5.8 crore Glucostrips and 6.67 crore Lancets were supplied to the 21 States by Union Health Ministry for screening and chemotherapy services were started in 11 districts with central support.

Following screening under the national programme, 6.13% were found suspected Diabetics nationally. It has been observed that the States of Gujarat (9.04%), Karnataka (8.79%), Andhra Pradesh (6.98%), Bihar (7.44%), Punjab (9.06%) and Sikkim (13.62%) have higher prevalence as compared to national prevalence. The suspected prevalence of Diabetes in Urban slums is also higher i.e.

11.77%.

Speaking on the impacts of Diabetes Mellitus the Health Minister said the impacts are considerable as Diabetes increases morbidity and mortality due to complications involving kidney, eye, heart and vascular system. The long term complications cause a heavy economic burden on the diabetic patients themselves, their families and society.The estimated 77 million pre-diabetics in India will be immensely benefitted by early screening and diagnosis as the onset of disease can be prevented for several years with exercise and other life style changes, he noted.The Minister said that since imported testing strips are quite expensive and repeated testing requirements make the feasibility of expanding screening strategy to all the districts difficult. Thus, the affordable screening system and testing strips launched today are of crucial importance.

According to the latest International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Diabetes Atlas 6, published in November 2013, India now has estimated 65 million people with diabetes. In 2011, another study by ICMR INDIAB had estimated that 62.4 million people had diabetes. Additionally, there are another 77 million people with pre-diabetes in India in whom if altered glucose levels are detected early and the onset of actual diabetes can be postponed for several years with dietary and life style changes.

Present at the occasion were Dr VM Katoch, Secretary, Health Research & DG, ICMR, Nilanjan Sanyal, Secretary, Ayush; Anuradha Gupta, Addl Secretary and Mission Director, NHM; Dr AK Das; Air Marshal D P Joshi, officials of MoHFW, and scientists and officials of ICMR.

Sopore identified as Hassan Bai alias Muzami and Chotu, Rizwan alias Shahid and Farooq. Hassan, according to police had replaced Qari Yasir, a top commander of JeM, who was killed in an encounter with forces last year.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Sopore, Abdul Qayoom told GNS that it was the same militant group that had escaped from Chirhaar last week. He said Qari Hassan was active in Lolab Valley of the Kupwara district.

“The group had recently come to Sopore from Lolab. 3 AK-47 rifles, 7 magazines, 2 mobile, wireless set was recovered from the encounter spot,” he said.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, Abdul Gani Mir told reports in Sopore that the operation was carried out on specific inputs.

“Three foreign militants have been killed in the encounter. They were associated with Jaish-e-Muhammad,” he said, Meanwhile, sources said, Hassan was involved in the killing of Kafeel Ahmad, Assistant Sub Inspector of Police at Chankhan Sopore on January 7.

The sources told GNS that the joint team was able to corner the militants by keeping their track from the forest area of Lolab, covered with heavy snowfall, to Sopore.

They said sniffer dogs led the search team to the residential house, where the militants were hiding.

Soon after the encounter ended, scores of people took to streets and staged pro-freedom and anti-India demonstrations. The people were protesting against the killing of the three militants.

(GNS)

Nasir must talk about the issue,” Mir stated adding further that Wani continuously ignored his pleas that made him to walk out from the meeting.

Meanwhile, NC provincial president Nasir Aslam Wani told KNS that PDP is ‘habitual of not accommodating other views and that it should learn politics before attending the meets’. “When Mir spoke, we didn’t interrupt him but once we began to present our view on the issue, he started beating the drums.”

Wani stated further that it has been the trademark of PDP to create chaos and finally going for a walk out. “They are new in politics and my advice to them would be to learn the same thoroughly before discussing matters pertaining to the city and that state.” (KNS)

Forest official in dock

nai committee Beigh stated that even the portion of recommendations made by the earlier Biloeria committee should be put in public domain. “PDP would want to make it clear that any lopsided, manipulative, injudicious or politically oriented creation of administrative units will not only take away the advantage that the ruling party desires to get out of this last hour poll gimmick, but will also create immense anger among the public who will feel deprived of the due rights.” (KNS)

SMC in Fethakadal Narparisthan was found to selling substandard food colours alongside industrial colours and dyes who has been warned to immediately stop sale within one week of these food colours or face legal action under Food Safety Standard Act 2006.

“General public are cautioned not to use these food products as same are harmful for health and can cause irreversible damage to health,” Dr Khan cautioned. (KNS)

Kamal decision in this regard.

Responding to a query, Kamal said that NC is not eager to have a pre-poll alliance with the Congress party. “NC is a strong party with mass appeal and we don’t need any help from Congress,” he said. (CNS)

Traffic

Contractor videographs official while taking bribe Srinagar, Jan 13, CNS: At a time when State Government is claiming to have tightened noose around corrupt officials, a contractor in State Forest Department possessing Phd in Forest discipline was compelled to pay hefty bribe to get requisition report about his work. Surprisingly, the contractor Dr Asif Shafi managed to take a video of the State Forest Corporation official receiving bribe and demanding more for getting requisition report.

Dr Asif Shafi, a resident of Hazratbal, Anantnag after completing his Phd in Forest Stream did not get a government job and to make his both ends meet he decided to get registered as a contractor in the State Forest Corporation (SFC) office Anantnag.

“I was awarded a contract to construct road measuring 4.5 kilometers but in reality the length of the road was above 5 kilometers. Besides construction of road I had to carry out extraction of timber and transportation of the timber upto final

was organized at Lal Chowk near Gantaghar, where huge gathering witnessed, the performance of the artists which carried some traffic awareness related messages. The general public has suggested that such programmes be organized regularly. At last the participants were served with some refreshment. The purpose of the Bicycle Rally and Cultural programme was to disseminate the traffic awareness among public in general and road users in particular. (KNS)

Malik condemns ‘life threats’ to Ishfaq Majeed’s father Srinagar, Jan 13 (KNS): Chairman Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front Mohammad Yasin Malik has expressed his concern over the ‘life threats on Haji Abdul Majid Wani father of Shaheed-I-kashmir Ishfiq Majid Wani by some unidentified person.

In a statement issued to KNS, Malik while expressing his concern over this said that according to Abdul Majid Wani some unidentified person are continuously keeping a watch on him and chasing him around. “This has made his life vulnerable and he feels threatened by this. Yasin Malik said that Abdul Majid Wani a fatherly figure for JKLF is ill and the situation created is deteriorating his health considerably.”

JKLF condemns these acts and stands at the back of Haji Abdul Majid Wani in this hour of worry and concern, the statement read.

Meanwhile Malik has expressed his heartfelt condolences at the sad demise of Abdul Rashid Parray of Trehgam. Late Abdul Rashid Parray was a close friend and classmate of father of Kashmiri nation Mohammad Maqbool Bhat (Shaheed).

Malik while expressing condolences to his family especially his sons Hilal Ahmad and Bilal Ahmad Parry prayed for the departed soul. JKLF senior leader master Mohammad Afzal went to the house of deceased and expressed condolences to his family. JKLF has also expressed Greif and sorrow over the demise of Sanaullah Bhat of Halmat Pora Kupwara. JKLF prays for the departed soul and expresses condolences to the bereaved family. (KNS)

Withholding forest guard list ‘deliberate’: Bandipora aspirants Srinagar, Jan 13 (KNS): Hundreds of aspirants who applied for the post of Forest guard in the year 2011 in north Kashmir’s Bandipora Monday accused that the authorities deliberately are delaying the issuance of final selection list.

The aspirants Monday told KNS that the delay in the issuance of the selection list is a ‘deliberate attempt’ to keep the future of hundreds of aspirants in dock. “We fail to understand, why the selection list is not being made public when in all other districts, the same has been done much earlier.”

The aspirants further stated that the authorities published the advertisement for the posts of forest guard on January 01, 2011 and that they submitted the forms on February 04 of the same year. “On November 26, 2013 the physical tests for the post were conducted and in the month of September, 2013, we qualified the written tests. We were later called for the viva,” said Javed Ahmad Najar.

Another aspirant Mudsair Ahmad Ganaie stated that the selection list for the post in other districts has already been issued but the authorities deliberately are delaying the same in Bandipora. “We appeal the authorities to issue the selection list and don’t keep us hanging in air,” said another aspirant Amir Shafi rather. (KNS)

Budgam villagers protest ‘arbitrary’ hike in electricity fee Srinagar, Jan 13: (GNS) Scores of people from different villages of Budgam on Monday staged protests against the Power Development Department (PDD) over the arbitrary hike in the electricity fee.

Reports reaching GNS said that scores of residents of Ichkoot, Krimshore, Khan Sahib this afternoon assembled outside the PDD office and staged demonstrations. Chanting slogans, the protesters alleged that the department has hiked the electricity fee by 100 percent without informing the consumers. The protesting consumers alleged that some officials in the PDD have hiked the tariff without any government order.

“The BPL families were getting electricity against flat rate of Rs 109. However, from October last year, the officials have raised the fee by cent percent. We protest the decision of PDD,” Ghulam Rasool Bhat, a protester from Ichkoot told GNS.

Dy CM distributes 881 teacher orders Appreciates the work of EVs Srinagar, Jan 13: (GNS) Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand Monday distributed teacher orders among 881 education volunteers of Kashmir division who rendered their sincere and dedicated service in the field of education at an impressive function organised by the Education Department, Kashmir at SKICC. Director, School Education, Kashmir, all CEO’s, ZEO’s, senior officers of education department, School Education Employees Association and beneficiaries attended the function.

Addressing the function, Deputy Chief Minister appreciated the work of Education Volunteers of the state who served the department with zeal and honesty. He hoped that the teachers will keep this spirit up in future too and will continue to work for the betterment of the student community.

Tara Chand asked the teach-

ing fraternity to put in all out efforts to upgrade the standard of education and make the students able to face the challenges and competitions at state, national and international level.

He asked officers to arrange parent-teacher meet every week so that the liaison will benefit the students in their academic and extra-curricular activities.

Deputy Chief Minister further said that the government is committed to continue the encouragement of honest and sincere employees by way of promotion and other concrete measures.

Director, School Education, Kashmir also spoke on the occasion and assured that more EV’s will be promoted as teachers in near future.

School Education Employees Association thanked the Deputy Chief Minister for his sincere efforts in encouraging the education department employees. (GNS)

pay me more. I am not tyrant on anybody.

I will give requisition report but you have to pay more,” the Manager tells the contractor.

“Please, do justice, consider me your own child,” the contractor pleads before the Manager.

The Manager replies: “What justice?

There is no justice.” He gets up from his seat after receiving a phone call and takes the money from the contractor, saying the amount “is less and you have to pay equal sum.” The contractor told CNS that he had already sent the video to CM Grievance Cell vide complaint number 44100 dated 30/10/2013 but no action was taken.

“I am satisfied at least Vigilance Organization had taken cognizance of the case and hopefully action would be initiated against the corrupt officials,” he said.

A Vigilance official told CNS that they have received the video and investigation has been taken up to ascertain the facts.

(CNS)

Div Com reviews facilities for devotes at Mata Sukrala Devi Ji & Mata Bala Sundari Shrines

JAMMU, JANUARY 13- Divisional Commissioner Jammu Shantmanu convened a meeting here today to review the arrangements and facilities being provided to devotees at Shri Mata Sukrala Devi Ji Shrine and Shri Mata Bala Sundari Shrine.

On the occasion, Div Com reviewed the decisions taken during the preliminary meeting. It was decided that some immediate concrete steps ought to be taken to create better facilities for the devotees who through the shrines throughout the year.

In this regard a committee under the supervision of District Development Commissioner Kathua, who is also Vice Chairman of the Committee was constituted with Executive officer, Assistant CEO SMVSB and Dr.NarinderVaid-Member of the Board as its members to submit a panel of retired persons for selection as full time manager and other managerial staff required for running affairs of the board efficiently with in a period of 15 days.

Further, CCTV Cameras shall be installed immediately at the shrine of Mata Sukrala Devi ji surveillance of the place, Existing toilets shall be renovated and aplace shall also be identified by the board members for construction of new toilets for the convenience of yatries, Financial delegation was made for operating Rs. One lac by the Executive Officer, Rs. Five lac by the Vice Chairman per month to make different types of expenses of the board. The Chairman of the board will have no limits in transaction of money as decided by the board, Prefabricated structure office of the Board shall be erected at Sukrala with in a period of one month to facilitate the employees of the Board besides Private Security shall also be hired from private agency to keep monitoring of the offerings being made at the shrine, Private counsel will be engaged by board to file objections in the High Court in the writ filed by baridars of Mata Sukrala and Tourism sarai of tourism department will be transferred by the Director Tourism to Shrine Board for establishment of the office of the board at Billawar.

3-day Jammu Lohri Festival concludes Festivals promote cultural amity, happy feelings: Sham JAMMU, JANUARY 13: The Lohri festival was celebrated with lot of enthusiasm and traditional fervor in Jammu city. A number of functions were held at different places in this regard.

The main function was held at historic Raghunath Bazar, where Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, ShamLal Sharma was Chief Guest and MLA, Ashok Khajuria was Guest of honor. Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Mr. Shantmanu, Director Tourism, Mr. Soujanya Sharma were also present on the occasion.

The function was organized by the Department of Tourism.

The main highlights of the festival were Hiran Dance, Dandia Dance and Chhajja Dance. The local artists presented colorful bonanza of cultural items and traditional songs which depicted rich culture and heritage of Jammu. The crowd cheered the artists with their every act.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that festivals are harbinger of peace and prosperity and people should celebrate with mutual amity and togetherness. ’The festivals are part of our culture and we should celebrate these with enthusiasm and traditional fervor.

Our traditions and culture are vanishing and need of the hour was to promote these with collective efforts to keep our younger generation connected with our roots. He said the India is a country of multi-religions and multi-lingual where people celebrate their festivals collectively, which is a symbol of pluralistic and democratic nation. We must promote the rich ethos of our composite culture to further strengthen our social fabric, which is the real strength of our country”, said the Minister.

While appreciating the efforts of Tourism

Department for reviving the rich culture and heritage of Jammu division, the Minister said that the Department must organize awareness programmes to promote the rich heritage of Dugger which has eroded during the past over two-three decades. The Department should highlight the importance of religious shrines, historic sites and also explore new tourist destinations in Jammu province to create more interests in locals as also to attract tourists from different parts of the coun-

ings to the people on this auspicious occasion. He also appreciated the efforts of Raghunath Bazar Businessmen Association for maintaining the age old traditions of celebrating Lohri in the historic RaghunathjiChowk, which exhibits oneness and unity in the society and promotes communal amity with various sections of the society and religions.

Mr. Ashok Khajuria lauded the efforts of Director Tourism for reviving the rich Dogra culture. He insisted for more steps for the beautification of Raghunath Bazar-KanakMandi-Rajinder Bazar-Veer Marg which are widely visited areas for the tourists. He also called for promoting peace and mutual brotherhood between various communities for ensuring development of the Jammu.

Mr. Soujanaya Sharma while welcoming the Chief Guest and audience said that the Department organized Lohri festival from 11 to 13 January to showcase the rich heritage and culture of Dogra. A number of functions were held at different places in the city where local artists displayed their skills to highlight the culture and importance of festivals. He said efforts will be made to promote the culture and heritage of Jammu through festivals on different occasions. He expressed gratitude to the Jammuites for their cooperation and making the events successful.

President, Raghunath Bazar Businessmen Association, Mr. Ved Prakash Khullar presented vote of thanks. He appreciated the pro-active role of Director Tourism for promoting the Dogra culture.

On the occasion, the famous painter K.K. Gandhi presented a painting on historic Mubarak Mandi to the tourism department.

try. He said Government was committed to further strengthen the existing tourisminfrastructure for the convenience of tourists, especially who are visiting for Shri Mata Vaishno Devijiyatra round the year. He also said that steps for the beautification of historic Raghunath Bazar will also be taken by the Government,it being heart of the city. He also congratulated the people on Mubarak Mandi Cable Car Project, which has been cleared for execution.

He said the work on the ambitious project shall start soon. He also said that work on restoration of Mubarak MandiHeritage project will also be speeded up.

The Minister extended his Lohri greet-

GOVERNMENT OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR SERVICE SELECTION BOARD Shekhari Bhawan Bahu Plaza Jammu

Beigh government to hold election at the block and district level.

“Further, despite the assurance of the ruling parties given to the legislature through the Governor’s address in Budget session of 2010 the elections to local bodies would be hold by May, 2010, no step has been taken till today. The ruling parties desire to befool the electorate at this stage through creating some administrative units on paper only.” Beigh added that the creation of new administrative units at present is nothing than another fraud being played on the people of the state.

Substantiating his claims, Beigh said that CSC exercise is patently farcical as they are working to a deadline given by the chief minister for his obvious political interests. “The audience at these so called meetings is sponsored by the ruling party itself to elicit predetermined opinions. It is a fixed match. If the units had ultimately to be created through such charade what was the need for a committee and why did the ruling party wait for the election time to execute its plans.”

Reiterating its demand of making the report of the Mushtaq Ga-

destinations from compartment 28/v Halsidar Anantnag,” Shafi told CNS. Shafi said that he went to Divisional Manager Extraction Anantnag, Peer Manzoor Ahmad for the clearance of the report about his work who demanded bribe from him. “I was shocked and decided to video graph the corrupt official while accepting bribe. I was even more shocked when the said official told me that whatever, bribe he gets is being distributed amoung all other officials of the Corporation,” he said.

The video taken by Shafi shows the officer Peer Manzoor Ahmad allegedly accepting bribe from the contractor.

“Sir, please do justice with me. I had given you earlier too. I can’t pay more than this,” the contractor says to the Manager while trying to handover him some cash.

The Manager who could be seen in the video refuses to take the “insufficient” amount from the contractor.

“I swear by God it won’t happen till you

Irt S.NO BARCODE NAME F. NAME no.

No. Select list of candidates under OM Category 1 90 KI 347998 KULDEEP BAJ NATH KUMAR 2

227 KI

019351

SITA DEVI

DEWAN CHAND

3

186 KI

711094

SANJAY KUMAR

FerOZ CHAND

Select list of candidates for the post of “Junior Assistatn” Item No. 854 District Cadre Kishtwar pertaining (Rural Dev. Department) advertised video Notification NO. 01 of 2011 dated 31-01-2011 GRADE ADD I ADD 2 ADD 3 Net speed D.O.B CAT M.O M.O %AGE WIG IN T. VIVA GTWTG COMPUTER DIPLOMA NAME OF INS/YEAR OF REMARKS wop.m SPEED VOICE FROM PASSING Recommendation with held and is subject to production of honafide certificate as per format of SSB from concern University being a regular or if distance then with name location or study entre KHARYAN INDERWAL CHHATROO

C/O RAMESH KUMAR SHARMA SHAN NAGAR POCHHAl

OPP LAXMI NARYAN MANDER KISHTIWAR

BRAHMAN MOHALLA KISTWAR KISHTIWAR

37

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Computer certificate and genuimences of the institute from where certificate courses or diplomas have been secured by the selecteed candidates may be verified by the indenting Deprtmeents themselves.

Recommendation with held and is subject to production of honafide certificate as per format of SSB from concern University being a regular or if distance then with name location or study entre

However,01 post (RBA=01) remainded unfiled due to non availabllity of eligible candidates.

DIPK: 12512

5327

29.60

11.71

41.31

Ome year Computer Diploma From INFOTECH Kishtiwar 2011

Grad from Jammu University 2010

Sd/ Secretary, J&K Service Selection Board Jammu

Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt. Quarters ( M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 09999964750, 9796 787844

EDITORIAL/ OPINION Eid Milad- un -Nabi -a day of introspection

T

oday we are celebrating Eid Milad- un-nabi (peace be upon him). This auspicious day has come with all blessings and kindness of almighty on the humanity as the Prophet of Prophets Hazrat Mohammad (SAW) was born on this day in the land of Arab which till then was ruled by anarchy and nothing was visible except darkness. As soon as Prophet Mohammad was born a new dawn was witnessed by the whole world and the beginning of a movement called Islam started. This movement represented truth, honesty, justice, brotherhood, equality, co-existence, democracy and above all the self less service of humanity. The slavery which was prevalent in every nook and corner of the Arab world started dwindling and the rights of humans irrespective of their social status, economic standing, cast, creed and color were recognized and respected in the new philosophy called Islam. The Prophet a symbol of kindness, Godliness, love, affection, sympathy and benevolent attitude towards every human who came across and who was in dire need of his compassionate, considerate , benign, kind and caring guidance and spiritual leadership. His personality was multi dimensional, he was ever polite even with his enemies and showered all whatever the possible kindness on them.

His birth day Eid Milad symbolizes the path of humanity. Every Muslim and every human should follow for his whole life. The Quran itself is a witness to the revelation of truth, the teachings of humanity and the way of life we are introduced to by the Prophet (SAW). Today we are living in a world which has posed many threats to the very existence of humanity and the society has plunged again in the darkness of moral degradation as we don’t follow the path shown by our Prophet who has left his guidance for us in every sphere of life. Why are Muslims in total disarray in the whole of the world and why do they lack peace of mind. Every Muslim country is striving and starving for peace and stability. The gun culture has taken the front seat and the teachings of Quran are being ignored everywhere. The materialistic designs and expansionism has destroyed our lives and every Muslim is feeling isolated and deprived. We never think on these issues and we never take guidance from the teachings of Prophet Mohammad and the holy Quran. Let us commit ourselves to the teachings of Islam and let us pledge that whatever the Prophet has taught us we will follow that in letter and spirit. If we do that we will never be in any problem and the peace of mind which we have lost will return back to us.

Other Opinion

Border Roads Organisation: Best under Extremes

T

he Border Roads Organisation was conceived and raised in March 1960 by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the great visionary and the first Prime Minister of India. This was done with the aim of coordinating the speedy development of a network of roads in the North and the North-Eastern Border regions of the country .

The team, a fine blend of officers from Indian Army and General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF), is headed by a Lt Gen from the Indian Army.

During the last 52 years this organisation has served the country, braving inhospitable and rugged terrain, adverse climate, inclement environmental conditions and insurgency.

Till date, BRO has constructed approximately 50500 Km of roads, 430 major permanent bridges of 42,000 m length and 19 airfields in difficult and remote areas of the country where no other construction agency dared to venture. At present BRO is working on numerous roads, which include new construction, as well as improvement from single lane to double lane. BRO is maintaining approximately 22,500 Km of roads. In addition, the Organisation carries out snow clearance on 95 roads (3,000 Km) every year to ensure connectivity of border regions to the rest of the country.

Honours & Awards In recognition of the distinguished and meritorious services and acts of gallantry displayed by officers and men, BRO has been bestowed with the following during Independence Day 2012, Army Day and Republic Day 2013. (a) BAR TO VSM 01 No (b) Shaurya Chakra 01 No (d) COAS Commendation Card 10 Nos (e) VCOAS Commendation Card 16 Nos (f ) Govt CC Card 05 Nos In addition to the vast network of roads being developed and maintained, some major achievements highlighting the technical prowess and professionalism of BRO are: Rohtang Tunnel The tunnel will provide an unhindered road access to the remote regions of Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi Valley throughout the year besides reducing the road distance by nearly 48 Kms, a travel time of about four hours. The progress is 3298 Mtrs upto Feb 2013 amidst geological surprises.

Digaru Bridge The Raksha Rajya Mantri and Chairman, Border Roads Development Board Dr MM Pallam Raju inaugurated the 720 m, longest departmentally constructed Digaru Bridge

by Project Udayak of BRO on 09 Apr 2012 in Lohit District in presence o f L t G e n S R a v i S h a n k a r, P V S M , V S M , E X D G B R , a nd o ther civ il and militar y dignitar ies. The i na ug u ration o f Dig a ru Br idge ( 720 meter) establish ed co n n e c tiv it y bet we en Lohit and Dibang valley w i t h Ar u n a cha l Pra d e sh wh ich fulfilled the long pending d e m a n d of loca l po pu lat ion as well as Ar my author ities.

Si me n Bri dg e Th e R a ksha R a jya M a ntr i and Chair man, B order R o a d s D e ve l opment B o a rd Dr MM Pallam R aj u inaugurated a 480 m leng th br id g e built across r iver Simen on Akajan-Jonai-Pasighat road (NH 52) in Arunachal Pradesh on 04 Jul 2012 in presence of DGBR and various Civil and Military officials. The opening of bridge, of National Highway Double Lane specifications, will usher in a new era of development for the civil population, Army and Paramilitary Forces and a host of other agencies working for infrastructure development of the region.

Daily

Zabarwan Times

Tuesday 14 January 2014

An Empowered Consumer is an Asset to the Nation

2

4th December is observed as “National Consumer Rights Day” in India, since on this day the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 was enacted. The Consumer Protection Act provides for effective safeguards to consumers against various types of exploitations and unfair dealings, relying mainly on compensatory rather than a disciplinary or preventive approach.

With a large consumer base of 1.27 billion ( 52% males and 48% females) constituting nearly 17.31% of the world’s population, the demography of Indian consumer shows an interesting pattern pointing towards a young consumer base which believes in market mechanism. 30 % of the population lives in urban areas and the rest in rural. The diversity itself is a major challenge for any consumer protection regime.

The Constitution of India provides for protection of rights of an individual and also enjoins the State to adhere to the Directive Principles. The source of consumer rights lies in the Fundamental Rights enshrined in our constitution. The Consumer Protection Act provides for protection of the basic rights of a consumer.

Consumer Movement in India

Though the consumer movement in India is as old as the trade and commerce, yet, there was no systematic movement in the country for safeguarding the interests of consumers till the Consumer Protection Act was enacted in 1986, based on the United Nations guidelines with the objective of providing better protection of consumers’ interests. The Act applies to all goods and services unless specifically exempted, and covers private, public, and cooperative sectors and provides for speedy and inexpensive adjudication.

The Act also provides for setting up of Consumer Councils to promote consumer welfare. The Act seeks to promote and protect the following six rights of the consumers: · The right to be protected against marketing of goods and services which are hazardous to life and property; · The right to be informed about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard and price of goods and services, as the case may be, to protect the consumer against unfair trade practices; · The right to be assured of access to a variety of goods and services at competitive prices; · The right to be heard and assured that consumer interest will receive due consideration at appropriate forums; · The right to seek redressal against unfair or restrictive trade practices or unscrupulous exploitation of consumers; · The right to consumer education.

The Consumer Protection Act

The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 lays down the rights of the consumers and provides for promotion and protection of

the rights of the consumers. The first and the only Act of its kind in India, it has enabled ordinary consumers to secure less expensive and often speedy redressal of their grievances. The Act mandates establishment of Consumer Protection Councils at the Centre as well as in each State and District, with a view to promoting consumer awareness. The provisions of this Act cover ‘goods’ as well as ‘services’.

The goods are those which are manufactured or produced and sold to consumers through wholesalers and retailers. The services are in the nature of transport, telephone, electricity, housing, banking, insurance, medical treatment, etc.

A written complaint, can be filed before the District Consumer Forum for goods/ services valued upto Rs.20 lakh, State Commission for value upto Rs one crore and the National Commission for value above Rs one crore, in respect of defects in goods or deficiency in service. The service can be of any description and the illustrations given above are only indicative. However, no complaint can be filed for alleged deficiency in any service that is rendered free of charge or under a contract of personal service.

The remedy under the Consumer Protection Act is an alternative in addition to that already available to the aggrieved persons/consumers by way of civil suit. In the complaint/appeal/petition submitted under the Act, a consumer is not required to pay any court fees but only a nominal fee. Consumer Fora proceedings are summary in nature. The endeavour is made to grant relief to the aggrieved consumer as quickly as in the quickest possible, keeping in mind the provisions of the Act which lay down time schedule for disposal of cases. If a consumer is not satisfied by the decision of a District Forum, he can appeal to the State Commission. Against the order of the State Commission a consumer can come to the National Commission.

Government Initiatives · ‘Jago Grahak Jago’ Though the consumer movement is slowly gaining ground in our country as the success of consumer movement mainly depends upon the level of consumer awareness generated in the country by educating the consumers about their rights and responsibilities. Within India itself, the level of consumer awareness varies from State to State depending upon the level of literacy and the social awareness of the people.

Educating more than 120 crores people of various categories of population, particularly those in rural areas where consumers are more susceptible to exploitation, on various subject matters of consumers interests being dealt by different Ministries / Departments, is a herculean task. For the 11th plan the scheme has received an allocation of Rs. 409 crores to launch an effective Multi- Media campaign. The scheme under the brand name of ‘Jago

Grahak Jago’ has carved out a niche for itself. For the 12th plan an allocation of Rs. 409.29 crores has been made.

Consumer Welfare Fund

The Central Excise and Salt Act, 1944 (1 of 1944) was amended in 1991 to enable the Central Government to create the Consumer Welfare Fund where the money, which is not refundable to the manufacturers etc., is credited. The money credited to the Fund is to be utilized by the Central Government for the welfare of the consumers in accordance with the Rules framed. The fund has been set up by the Department of Revenue, but the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution will operate it.The overall objective of the consumer Welfare Fund is to provide financial assistance to promote and protect the welfare of the consumers and strengthen the voluntary consumer movement in the country particularly in the rural areas.

Consumer Clubs

This scheme was launched in 2002, according to which a consumer club shall be set up in each Middle/High/Higher Secondary school/college affiliated to a government recognized Board/University. This scheme has been decentralised and transferred to the Governments of States/UTs with effect from 1.04.2004. All interested NGO/VCOs shall apply to the Nodal Officer in the Food, PD & Consumer Welfare Department of the respective States/UTs. Promoting Research This scheme has been launched with a view to sponsor research and evaluation studies in the field of consumer welfare to provide solution to the practical problems being faced by the consumers, to sponsor seminars/workshops/ conferences on the consumer related topics, and to have necessary inputs for the formulation of policy/programme/scheme for the protection and welfare of the consumers.

The Indian Institute of Public Administration, New Delhi, has been identified as the nodal organization to administer the scheme.

National Consumer Helpline A National Consumer Helpline project has been established in collaboration with Delhi University, Department of Commerce. Consumers can call from anywhere in India to the number 1XXXXX-4000 from MTNL/BSNL lines free of charge and get advice regarding their problem as a consumer. The Helpline has been formally launched on 15.3.2005 on the World Consumer Rights Day and is functional on all working days from 9.30 A.M to 5.30 P.M. · CORE Centre The Consumer Online Resources and Empowerment Centre has been conceived to function as the most scientific and effective system of collection, dissemination and redressal of consumer related infor-

mation and complaints. It was launched on the World Consumer Day i.e. on 15th March, 2005. Consumers can now register their complaints in the CORE Centre through the website www.core.nic.in.

They can also have access to wealth of information regarding Consumer issues through this website.

State Consumer Welfare Fund

States/UTs have to set up their own Consumer Welfare Fund by making a onetime contribution of an amount proportionate to the number of districts, by the Centre (Department of Consumer Affairs) and the State Government in the ratio 50:50 (Centre : State). In case of special category States, like North Eastern States, Sikkim, J&K, Uttaranchal A&N Islands and Lakshdweep the ratio will be 90:10 (Centre : State).

National Consumer policy Increased global trade and the development of Internet have provided new opportunities for consumers, leading to new forms of unfair and unethical business practices. With the change in the global scenario and the market dynamics the consumers have also changed. Children and young adults and women – who often lack experience as consumers – are more significant forces in markets, as are the growing number of older adults who sometimes face unique marketplace challenges. This requires consumer protection authorities to be more vigilant and active. The sophistication of retail markets is increasing the role of consumers. The greater empowerment of consumers has also led to greater responsibilities for them to manage their own affairs.

Here comes the need to make suitable policy prescriptions to protect consumer rights.

The draft National Consumer policy envisages to promote the rights and interests of consumers and ensure a high level of consumer protection, contributing to protecting the health, safety and economic interests of consumers as well as promoting their right to information, education and to organise themselves to safeguard their interests. It will endeavour to achieve effective implementation of various consumer welfare schemes through progressive consumer related legislations and active participation of all stakeholders; Central and State Governments, academic and research institutions, schools and colleges, voluntary consumer organizations and civil society, business and above all the consumers themselves to create an effective consumer movement in the country.

An empowered consumer is an asset to the nation and therefore today, it is widely acknowledged that the level of consumer awareness and protection is one of the major indicators of development in any country.

Aside: A Scheme for Creating Industrial Infrastructure

K

arnataka ranks top in the field of flower farming in India with over 18,000 hectares of land under cultivation. The state accounts for 75 per cent share in India's total flower production and has the highest area under modern cut flowers. In the past, the cut flowers were transacted through the process of auction. As a result, the number of transactions per day was meagre. Therefore the need of a modern auctioning system to facilitate flower exports was deeply felt.

The International Flower Auction Yard in Bangalore, which is a joint venture between Karnataka Agro Industries Corporation and the flower growers of the state, was helped by the Department of Commerce with a financial assistance aid to maximise the transactions. The aid also paved the way towards the creation of a hygienic platform for both sellers and buyers so that the farmers get the maximum price in export of flowers. The financial assistance of Rupees Three Crore, which proved to a game changer for the flower growers of the state, was provided under the Assistance to States for Infrastructure Development and Exports Scheme (ASIDE) of the Department of Commerce of the Government of India. The monetary help facilitated in the completion of the project of replacement of the traditional auctioning system.

Now, with the support under the ASIDE Scheme, the modern electronic auction clock system helps the bidders in reducing time loss and maintaining transparency.

Along with this, with the implementation of the new system, the local flower growers were able to facilitate 800-1000 transactions per day as against 400-500 transactions in the past when the manual system was in action. The new system was an evidence

of the quick auctioning system, with very large number of small lots being auctioned through quick price discovery.

The ASIDE Scheme has, apart to the Karnataka flower growers, proved to be very efficacious and beneficiary for exports country-wide. Launched in 2002, this Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) is aimed at involving States / Union Territories in export effort by providing assistance to them for creating appropriate infrastructure for development and growth of exports. The scheme provides for an outlay for development of export infrastructure to be distributed to the States / UTs according to a pre-defined criterion.

Such activities which have overwhelming export content were funded through the Scheme, with the sole motto of the development of infrastructure for exports. The Scheme is exclusively used for building up infrastructure which does not get reflected either in the State / UT plan or in the plans of the Central Ministries or its organisation(s), yet such infrastructure is critical for growth of exports.

Till now, an amount of about Rs.5700 Crores has baeen released under the Central and State components of ASIDE Scheme for creation of the necessary infrastructure in States / UTs to boost exports. The Scheme has given shape to some of the most important infrastructure facilities in various States/UTs. One such infrastructural development is the Maniram Dewan Trade Centre in Guwahati, Assam. With the growth in business and trade volumes in the North East region, along with the necessity for global competitiveness, the need for a Trade Centre to facilitate organisation of trade fairs and exhibitions and invite wider participation was being felt in the North East region. To

address this issue, the Assam Trade Promotion Organization, a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Government of Assam made a proposal for assistance of Rs.28.38 Crore under the ASIDE Scheme for the construction of Maniram Dewan Trade Centre. The Centre started its operations in March 2009. It has three air conditioned exhibition halls and conference rooms, meeting rooms, amphitheatre, with all modern incidental facilities.

With the construction of the Trade Centre, the impact on export can be assessed from the increase in occupancy rate from 8.20 per cent in 2009 to 53.44 per cent in 2011.

The Centre attracted visitors/delegates from various South East Asian countries. The Centre is serving as a platform for entrepreneurs of the region to display their products in national and international trade fairs.

Take for instance the additional infrastructure facilities built at the Calicut Air Cargo Complex under the ASIDE Scheme. Earlier, the export operations in Calicut Airport were transacted from within the airport itself. The lack of export processing area and space requirement for offices for customs, airlines, plant quarantine and exporters among others, was causing delays in transport of export goods which resulted in loss in quality and competitiveness of goods. To overcome the problems faced by exporters, the Kerala State Industrial Enterprises Ltd. (KSIE) submitted a project report for constructions of "IInd Phase Construction of Additional Infrastructural Facilities at Calicut Air Cargo Complex, Karipur" at the total cost of Rs.3.10 crore, with financial assistance of Rs.15.5. crore under the ASIDE Scheme.

The project involved construction of buildings, electrification & air-conditioning, fire detection, fire fighting equipments & security system, machinery & equipment, com-

puterisation and communication systems.

With the completion of the project, the dwelling time of the cargo was reduced by its speedy clearance by new X-ray machine.

Apart from it, the creation of additional space and other infrastructural facilities also helped the exporters to protect their commodities from direct sunlight and rain.

It is to be noted that when the project was partially commissioned during 2008-09, the quantity of exports increased by 50 per cent. But presently the export volume is 225 per cent more than what it was in 2007- 08.

It has given big boost to the agricultural exports from Malabar region through the Calicut airport.

The Institute of Auto parts & Hand Tools Technology in Ludhiana lacked the R&D facilities for quality improvement of products of Small and Medium Enterprises of the place to match export standards elsewhere.

The Department of Commerce helped in strengthening the Institute for installation of facilities for reverse engineering, non-destructive testing and advanced heat treatment processing with 100 per cent finance of the project cost of Rs.5.18 crore under the ASIDE Scheme. With the financial assistance, the exports in this sector have gone up from Rs. 6000 crore in 2005-06 to Rs.9500 crore in 2008-09, with the share of Punjab being 30-35 per cent. It has also eased component sourcing & import substitutability and ensured availability of advanced technical infrastructure to manufacturers and exporters locally. It has also resulted in precision manufacturing of product development for global markets. Besides all these, the project has been successful in creation of skilled manpower base for various industries and employment generation through training programs & skills upgradation.

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

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

Srinagar | Sunday

CSC meeting held at Banquet Hall

Representatives of Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal put forth their suggestions SRINAGAR, JANUARY 13: Cabinet Sub-Committee which met here for seeking suggestions from people belonging to all walks of life particularly from Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal districts for creation of new Administrative Units, held deliberations with representatives of various political parties and Civil Society at Banquet Hall Monday morning.

Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Tara Chand presided over the meeting whileas Minister for Urban Development, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora, Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Sham Lal, Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir, Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Akbar Lone, Minister for Labour and Employment, Mr. Ajay Sadhotra and Minister for Law and Parliament Affairs, Mir Saifullah were present in the meeting.

Several MLA’s including MLA Amira Kadal, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani put forth their suggestions on the occasion.

MLA Batmaloo, Mr. Mo-

hammad Irfan Shah at the outset demanded block status for Takenwari and Tehsil or Niabat for Shalteng.

District President Congress, Shamima Khan raised various issues of Bemina and adjoining areas and demanded Block status for Bemina.

National Conference representative of Khanyar Constituency demanded Tehsil and Niabat for Khanyar while Congress representative of Eidgah demanded Tehsil for Eidgah.

Besides, representatives of Zadibal Constituency demanded four Tehsils for Srinagar and a Niabat for Hawal.

Representatives of PDP Srinagar demanded two districts for Srinagar with four Tehsils each. Hazratbal representatives demanded Tehsil Office in Fateh Kadal.

MLA Amira Kadal in his speech said that it is a revolutionary step taken by Government and setting up of new Administrative Units is need of the hour.

MLA Budgam, Syed Ruhullah Mehdi while addressing on the occasion, lauded the Government for taking the step of creation of new

Administrative Units. He said Government prioritized decentralization and it is the objective of the Government to bring administration at the doorstep of the people.

He demanded sub-district status for Beerwah and Tehsil Headquarter at Magam. He also demanded bifurcation of Halqas.

Later, representatives of Ganderbal district presented their sug-

gestions before the sub-committee.

Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone on the occasion, suggested to set up a block at Safapora so that the people are facilitated. Senior leader National Conference of Ganderbal, Sheikh Ishfaq Jabbar demanded creation of Development Block for Sherpathri Ganderbal which comprises of 30 villages and a population of about 80,000 educationally

and economically backward people, a long pending demand of the people of the area besides, development block for Allaqa Phek which is far off from district headquarter Ganderbal.

The area consists of about 30 villages and a population of 60,000 to 70,000 people. He also suggested for creation of revenue Halqa for Wattal Bagh, Larson, Repora, Bagoo Rampora and Tehsil status for Wakoora.

Financial Literacy Programme organised by NABARD

KISHTWAR, JANUARY 13- NABARD organized a financial literacy campaign at village Bandera in Kandani, Kishtwar here today.

Adarsh Gupta, District Development Manager (DDM), Kishtwar who represented NABARD informed the gathering about the Financial System of India, its components and functions. The audience was informed about the need and the benefits of being associated with the banks, by having saving accounts, deposit accounts or current account with banks.

It was emphasized that poor people can get a special type of account called “No Frill” account with banks that require a negligible minimum balance to be maintained. The people were apprised about various facilities being offered by banks like ATM, Remittances/Transfers, insurance, financial advice etc.

The villagers were informed about the various types of credit facilities available from banks like business Loans, retail loans, agriculture loans etc. A special focus was given on Kissan Credit Cards.

It was explained to them about the procedures/KYC norms to avail the various kind of banking facilities. The DDM also took the opportunity to inform the gathering about the concept of Self Help Groups and its approach to address poverty.The aim of the programme was to disseminate the requisite knowledge that will help the audience in their future endeavors and for the overall financial inclusion of poor and the general public at large in the district of Kishtwar.

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Lone News Agency Kangan Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam JAMMU, JANUARY 13of the board efficiently with in a Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora period of 15 days. Further, CCTV Bhat News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency Kunzar Divisional Commissioner Cameras shall be installed imJAMMU, JANUARY 13: The Council of Ministers has exJammu Shantmanu convened a mediately at the shrine of Mata Dar Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal tended warm greetings to News the people on the eve of Eid-i-Mihere today to review the Sukrala Devi ji surveillance Agency Safaporaprayed meeting Saleem News Agency Pattan lad-un-Nabi (SAW).InReshi a jointNews message, the Ministers arrangements and facilities beof the place, Existing toilets that the occasion brings joy, peace and prosperity for the Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore ing provided to devotees at Shri shall be renovated and aplace people of the State. They said the people of the State have alAltaf News Agency Pulwama News Agency Qazigund MataJavaid Sukrala Devi Ji Shrine and shall also be identified by the ways maintained high standards of harmony, brotherhood Shri G.M MataNews Bala Agency SundariSopore Shrine. board members for construcJeelaniforNews Agency Baramulla and mutual trust.Minister Finance & Ladakh Affairs, On News the occasion, Div tion of new toilets for the Shah for News Agency Kupwara Sultan Agency Handwara Mr. A. R. Rather, Minister Public Enterprises, Haj, AuCom reviewed the decisions convenience of yatries, Finanqaf and Floriculture, Younis Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed; MinisNews Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad cial delegation was made for taken during the preliminary ter for Rural Development Panchayats, Ali MohamReshiand News Agency Mr. Islamabad Three Way News Agency Tral meeting. operating Rs. One lac by the mad Sagar; Minister for Forest, Environment and Ecology, It Badru was decided that some imExecutive Officer, Rs. Five Turray News Agency Tral News Agency Bijbehara Mian Altaf Ahmad; Minister for Medical Education, Youth mediate concrete steps ought to lac by the Vice Chairman per News Agency Kulgam Malik News Agency Arwani Services & Sports, Mr.Rahi Taj Mohi-ud-Din; Minister for Urban be taken to create better facilities month to make different types Development and Urban Mr. Nawang Rigzin RahLocal NewsBodies, Agency Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil for the devotees who through the of expenses of the board. The

Ministers greet people on Eid-i-Milad; wish them peace, prosperity

Jora; Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma; Minister for Agriculture Production, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir; Minister for Social Welfare, ARI & Trainings and Public Grievances, Ms. Sakina Ittoo; Minister for Housing, Horticulture & Culture, Mr. Raman Bhalla; Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone; Minister for Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution and Transport, Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan; Minister for Planning & Development and Labour & Employment, Mr. Ajay Sadhotra; Minister for Tourism, Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir; Minister for R&B and Mechanical Engineering, Mr. Abdul Majid Wani and Minister for Law, Justice & Parliamentary Affairs, Mir Saifullah in their joint message hoped that the occasion will bring peace and prosperity.

Div Com reviews facilities for devotes at Mata Sukrala Devi Ji & Mata Bala Sundari Shrines

shrines throughout the year. In this regard a committee under the supervision of District Development Commissioner Kathua, who is also Vice Chairman of the Committee was constituted with Executive officer, Assistant CEO SMVSB and Dr.NarinderVaidMember of the Board as its members to submit a panel of retired persons for selection as full time manager and other managerial staff required for running affairs

Chairman of the board will have no limits in transaction of money as decided by the board, Prefabricated structure office of the Board shall be erected at Sukrala with in a period of one month to facilitate the employees of the Board besides Private Security shall also be hired from private agency to keep monitoring of the offerings being made at the shrine, Private counsel

20 lakh children to be given anti polio drops on January, 19 Mobile, transit teams to ensure anti polio drops to left out children for another 2 days: Shabir JAMMU, JANUARY 13: Around 20 lakh children of 0-5 year’s age would be given pulse polio drops on January, 19th, the first round of pulse polio campaign of this year in the State.

Health Department has kept available over 25 lakh pulse polio doses (vaccines) at hospitals and designated booths across the State.To make the ant- polio drive successful by achieving cent percent targets 11400 booths are being setup in the State which would be manned by 23000 paramedics, 2300 supervisory staff besides the staff of other Departments on the day.In this regard, the Minister of State for Health, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Khan reviewed the preparations made

by the Family Welfare Department for successful conduct of pulse polio drive at a meeting here today.Director Family Welfare, Dr. Baldiv apprised the Minister about the preparations made by the Department for Successful conduct of pulse polio campaign in the State on the day.

He said besides setting up of designated booths mobile and transit teams would ensure administering of anti-polio drops to left out children for another two days.

The Minister said that with the constant efforts of the employees of Health Department and massive support of the society, no fresh polio case has been reported from any part of the State during the past couple of years. He cautioned against any let up in the campaign to deal with this dreaded disease.

Emphasizing on stepping up the mass awareness campaign through different mediums in the shape of a strong movement against the dreaded diseases like Polio/HIV AIDS and Cancer, the minister said that such diseases weaken the socio-economic conditions of the people and need of the hour is to make collec-

tive efforts to get rid of these dangerous diseases. He called for active involvement of cross sections of the society, including media, social organizations and educational institutions. He said government has been making best efforts to make the State Polio and HIV/AIDS-free, but it is not possible without the active support and contribution of the society.

The Minister said this campaign will continue for another two days by way of house-to-house activity to trace and administer polio drops to the children left out on the first day of the round. He said it should be ensured that all the children of snow-bound areas like Gurez, Machal and Karnah, Zanskar, Drass, Numa in Kashmir division and Padder, Warwan etc and remote and snow-bound areas of Rajouri, Poonch, Bani etc in Jammu division are covered under the campaign.

Shabir said that special attention should be paid to sensitive areas like slums, isolated hutments, brick kilns, floating or migrating population and construction sites so that no child is left uncovered in these areas.

State witnessing visible developmental transformation: Gurezi Meets several deputations SRINAGAR, JANUARY 13: Minister of State for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Mr. Na-

zir Ahmad Gurezi has said that noteworthy achievements have been registered by the Government during the last five years in all sectors. Mr. Gurezi said various innovative measures have been taken in this regard and crores of rupees are being spent on various on-going micro and macro developmental

projects under different sectors in the State.

Minister was speaking in series of public meetings at different places including Gurez House Bemina in Srinagar during his tour today.

Mr Gurezi said that Gov-

ernment is committed to provide basic amenities to the people of all the three regions of the State. He said Government’s focus is to ameliorate the socioeconomic condition of the weaker sections of the society.

Various deputations including a deputation from Nowpora Tulail area of Gurez called on

him here and projected their personal and collective problems. These included reopening of Bandipora-Gurez road, air services and construction of Bandipora-Gurez tunnel, replacement of damaged transformers, early comple-

tion of on-going construction of hospital buildings and educational institutions in Gurez Tehsil and ensuring of adequate drinking water facilities.

The Minister gave them a patient hearing and assured them that their genuine demands will be looked into.

will be engaged by board to file objections in the High Court in the writ filed by baridars of Mata Sukrala and Tourism sarai of tourism department will be transferred by the Director Tourism to Shrine Board for establishment of the office of the board at Billawar. Director Tourism shall also put up the logo of the board in its next meeting.

It was resolved that strenuous efforts shall be made to create better facilities for the devotees coming to shrine and more awareness will be made about the shrine of Mata Sukrala and Mata Sundari to attract maximum yatries in the coming time.

The meeting was attended by Jitendra Kumar Singh Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Soujanya Sharma, Director Tourism, Deep Raj SDM Billawar, Anil Sharma Assistant CEO SMVSB, Dr. Sham Lal Gupta, Dr, Narinder Vaid, Zorawar Singh and PawanShastri all members of the board.

Advanced Braille training programme concludes at Pul PULWAMA, JANUARY 13: Five day advanced Braille training programme organised under SSA’s IED component concluded here today. The programme was organised by Chief Education Officer, Pulwama in which a large number of Teachers besides the blind children also participated.During the training programme participating family members of totally blind children were trained in Braille to enable them to guide and counsel their wards at home.

Addressing the valedictory function in this connection, the Chief Education Officer Pulwama urged the teachers to upgrade their skills to sow the seeds of social justice in their class rooms which would greatly benefit in the society.The programme was aimed at to set a road map for educating differently abled especially blind children in the district.

DC Kulgam distributes cheques among Construction workers KULGAM, JANUARY 13: In a significant move, Deputy Commissioner, Kulgam, Mr. Jehangir Mir today disbursed 35 cheques worth Rs. 11.31 lakh among registered labourers for the welfare of workers of the district registered with J&K Construction Workers Welfare Board. The cheques were distributed for major cases and cash has been released for minor cases through bank accounts of the beneficiaries. The scheme has been aimed to give complete social security to construction workers by the Labour department in accordance with the initiative taken by the J&K government. The financial assistance was given regarding the cases of death during work, injury, chronic diseases and educational assistance.

25th Road Safety week celebrated across different districts of the Valley SRINAGAR, JANUARY 13 Continuing with 25th Road Safety Week Celebrations, Traffic Police City Srinagar organized a Motor Cycle Rally of students, traffic police contingents which was flagged off by Superintendent of Police Traffic City Srinagar, Mr. Haseeb-UrRehman at Hyderpora Bye pass here today. A cultural programme was also organized in which prominent artists participated besides a Nukked Show was organized at Lal Chowk near Ganta Ghar, where huge gathering witnessed, the performance of the artists which carried some traffic awareness related messages and the general public has suggested that such programmes be organized regularly.

The purpose of the Bicycle Rally and Cultural programme was to disseminate the traffic awareness among public in general and road users in particular.

Meanwhile, the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD), Kupwara today organised a rally from Kupwara to Fruit Mandi Bumhama which was flagged off by the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kupwara.

An awareness programme was also organised by the Motor Vehicles Department, Kupwara on the topic, “When you are on the road Pehle Aap” in connection with 25th Road Safety Week, the speakers threw light on the topic and made transporters aware about the traffic rules and safe driving to avoid accidents.The Assistant Regional Transport Officer Kupwara, Dy. S.P Traffic Rural, Baramulla and Kupwara, besides officers of JKP, Traffic and transport also spoke on the occasion.

The Assistant Regional Transport Officer Kupwara informed that Rs. 10 lakh were realised as fine from the offenders while 1647 vehicles were registered in the

district during the current fiscal.

The Deputy Commissioner Kupwara who was the chief guest on the occasion distributed trophies among the transporters, traffic and media person Traffic Police Budgam also organized awareness rally. The function was organised by Dy.SP Traffic, Budgam, while DIG Police Syed Afadullah Mujtehba today flagged off the sumo rally from DC office to New Bus stand Budgam.

Speaking on the occasion, DIG Police said that without the cooperation of people, traffic system cannot be managed effectively.

It’s also a duty and responsibility of people to follow traffic norms and avoid parking their vehicles on wrong places. Syed said, adding that there is a need to educate and aware people about the traffic rules and also to initiate tough action against the offenders.

14. 01 .2014

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 April 20-May 20

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

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.