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MonDAY
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July 15 | 2013 | 05 Ramzan 1434 AH | PAGES 8 |
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VoL no: 3 | ISSUE no: 170 | 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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http://www.zabarwantimes.com
Protests in nawab Bazar against the death J&K victim of uncertainty 2 die in road
Corporate sector ready to offer jobs to Kashmiri students New Delhi: Students from Jammu and Kashmir now have access to training with scope for jobs in the corporate sector through a programme monitored by the Chairman of Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, Chakravarthi Rangarajan. A group of students from the Kashmir Valley, which is currently in New Delhi, had an interactive session with Rangarajan over the weekend. The Himmayyat and Udaan skill-cum-employment schemes are expected to provide jobs for young educated Kashmiris. Rangarajan said steps were being taken to provide employment opportunities in the state, but added that these opportunities should not be confined only to the state, but to other states as well. "Ultimately, employment opportunities in the state will increase only when there is rapid growth in the state. Ultimately, that is the real answer, but, at the same time, your employment opportunities are not just confined to your state. Your employment opportunities are there all over the country," Rangarajan said. The Himmayyat and Udaan schemes were launched in 2011. Shafiya, a Kashmiri student, said: "I hope and I wish that youth of Jammu and Kashmir get these kinds of opportunities and they come here with the companies not only in Yes Bank but coming through Udaan or Himmayyat. These are good programmes and students should try to avail this kind of exposure.
2 youths drown in Jehlum in South Kashmir Srinagar July 14, 2013: Two youth were drowned while bathing in Jehlum in south Kashmir on Saturday. 17 years old, Sakib Ahmad Malik son of Abdul Rehman Malik resident of Cheek-i-Dar Mattan was drowned while bathing in river Jehlum at Cheeki-e-Dar Simthan, in the jurisdiction of Police station Bijbehara. Efforts are on to retrieve the body. Meanwhile, 16 years old, Adil Ahmad Kuhchay son of Mohammad Shafi resident of Barsoo, Awantipora was drowned in river Jehlum while bathing near Barsoo, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Awantipora. The body of Adil was fished out and handed over to his relatives for last rites.
Wolves kill a boy in Baramulla Srinagar July 14, 2013: A group of Wolves attacked three boys who were collection apricots at Hail Jagir, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Kreeri, resulting in on spot death of 10 years old boy identified as Adil Hamid Sheikh son of Abdul Hamid resident of Hail, Jagir. The body of deceased was handed over to his relatives for last rites.
Leopard mauls 5 sheep in Anantnag Srinagar July 14, 2013: Fives sheep were mauled to death by a leopard in the Sheihkpora area of Anantnag District. Five sheep belongs to Aliys Ahmad Ganie son of Ghulam Mohi-u-Din resident of Sheikhpora, Chittergul, Achabal were killed when a leopard attacked the sheep barn near his house.
Petrol price hiked by Rs 1.55 per litre New Delhi, July 15: Petrol prices today hiked by one rupee and 55 paise per litre excluding VAT. The new rate will come into effect from midnight today. The new rate will come into See Petrol on Pg. 7
Body of Parvez brought to Srinagar from Mumbai
Srinagar, July 14:
The body of Parvez Ahmad Teli of Nawab Bazar who died mysteriously in Mumbai was brought back to Srinagar by his relatives on Sunday. Parvez, according to family sources, had gone to Mumbai on July 2 and since July 6 they had no contact with him. “His brother went to Mumbai on July 8 in search of Parvez and had reported the matter of his disappearance to Mumbai police,” a family member of Parvez told KNS. “When he showed the picture of Parvez to Mumbai police they took him to a hospital where he identified the body of his brother,” he added. The family members alleged that there were torture marks on the body of Parvez. He was doing business in Mumbai for the last 10 years, they said. Deputy Inspector General Police central Kashmir Afhad-ul-Muj-
taba told KNS that they were in close touch with Mumbai police so that the cause of his death is ascertained. “Parvez had gone missing after he left his cousin to get some cigarettes but did not return. He disappeared somewhere near Church Gate in Mumbai on July 7,” he said. The DIG added that his body was recovered on July 9 by Mumbai police. Meanwhile, as the news about the mysterious death of Parvez reached Kalamdan Pora the whole area observed shutdown to protest against what they call a “murder”. Hundreds of people came on roads in the Nawab Bazar area to protest against the “killing” of Parvez. “Parvez has been murdered only because he was a Kashmiri Muslim,” said a protester standing near a burning tyre on the main Chowk of Nawab Bazar. Meanwhile, Hurriyat Confer-
ence (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq termed the death of Parvez as unfortunate and alleged that Kashmiri youth are being subjected to worst kind of torture. Demanding a fair probe in the death of Parvez he said, “J&K Government has failed on all fronts to safeguard Kashmiris. Our youth in outside states are unsafe,” he told KNS. He expressed sympathies with the bereaved family. Meanwhile, on the instructions of JKLF chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik a delegation of Front led by Noor Mohammad Kalwal, Bashir Kashmiri and Mushtaq Ajmal participated in the nimaz-ejinazah of Parvez. The delegation expressed sympathies with the bereaved family. Hurriyat (M) leader Zaffar Akbar Bhat also visited the residence of the deceased and participated in his nimaz-e-jinazah. He demanded a probe into the death.
right from 1947: Taj
‘Congress only can safeguard interests of Kashmiris’ Srinagar, July 14: Senior Congress leader and Minister for Medical Education Taj Moh-ud-Din Sunday said that Jammu and Kashmir has remained victim of uncertainty right from 1947 and it continues till date. “Be it Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad’s tenure or Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah or coalition governments, the process of uncertainty is a continuous process. It is not a new thing in J&K,” he told KNS. The Minister said that Congress is guardian of Article 370 in J&K and it is Congress only which can safeguard interests of Kashmiris. “There is already autonomy in J&K as our Assembly is empowered to frame laws on its own. Par-
liament has no role in forming laws in J&K and what bigger autonomy you can have,” he added. Taj, who returned to Valley after meeting Congress party in-charge for Jammu and Kashmir Ambika Soni, Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, Union Sports Minister Jitendra Scindia and Union Home Secretary Anil Goswami, in New Delhi, said at the time of accord of 1975 autonomy issue was settled. “The accord was signed by two of the stalwarts of Congress and National Conference (Indira Gandhi and Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah),” he said. Sources told KNS that Taj had a detailed meeting with Ambika and Azad, in New Delhi on present See Taj on Pg. 7
mishaps
Srinagar, July 14: Two persons were killed in separate road mishaps while as many drowned in Kashmir Valley, a police spokesman said here on Sunday. He said a Tipper JK05C-1541 hit a pedestrian, Wali Mohammad Malik son-in- law of Mohammad Subhan Rather of Noorbagh Srinagar at Bongam Kunzar, resulting in his on spot death. In another accident, a Tractor turned turtle at Nowpora Kreeri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla, resulting in serious injuries to the driver, Akhter Ahmad Lone son of Nisar Ahmad of Nowpora. “He was shifted to District Hospital, Baramulla where he succumbed to his injuries,” the spokesman said. Separately, four persons were injured when a vehicle (Innova—JK02AH-1207) they were travelling in turned turtle on Highway near Neepora Qazigund in South Kashmir’s Anantnag See Mishaps on Pg. 7
Kamal reacts to Mufti’s assertions: JK takes up inflated airfare for Who brought AFSPA to Kashmir? second timer Hajjis with GoI
Srinagar, July 14:
Reacting to Peoples Democratic Party patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s yesterday’s statement, National Conference Additional general secretary Dr Mustafa Kamal Sunday alleged that Mufti’s intention was to create violence at Martyrs Graveyard on July 13. “They (PDP leaders) are responsible for burning Kashmir. In 2010 when stone pelting was at its peak, Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said that it was PDP cadres who were involved in stone pelting in old
Rapist arrested in Kupwara Srinagar, July 14: A 16 years old girl (name withheld) reported in Police post Bazaar Kupwara alleging that she was raped by 30 years old Showket Ahmad Malik son of Jabbar Malik of Hatmulla on Didikoot road in his Maruti Van (JK05A/8637). A case FIR number 34/13 under section 376 RPC was registered in police station Kupwara and See Arrested on Pg. 7
city. Even, this was corroborated by then Union Home Minister P Chidamabaram,” Kamal told KNS. Mufti had on Saturday
said it was brazen violation of democratic norms that political leaders had been imprisoned in their homes to prevent them from paying tributes to
the martyrs. He said it was condemnable that the present government had almost completely suspended civil liberties and fundamental right to expression. “We can’t claim to be a democracy as long as we have to resort to draconian laws and illegal methods to suppress the voices that government of the day does not like or does not have the capacity to engage and address politically,” he said. Reacting to Mufti’s assertions, Kamal said, “It seems Mufti had not gone to Martyrs Graveyard to pay homage to See Kamal on Pg. 7
Srinagar, July 14: The Jammu and Kashmir has taken up the issue of highly inflated airfare for second time Hajj pilgrims from Srinagar with government of India. “The State government
has taken a strong note of exorbitantly higher air fare for the repeat pilgrims of Srinagar in comparison with Delhi or other embarkation points as prescribed by the Hajj Committee of India,” a spokesman of State Hajj Committee said here on Sunday, KNS reported. The Hajj pilgrims from J&K who are going for repeat pilgrimage this year as companion/mehram will have to pay highest airfare, almost double to what aspirant from other states are being charged. As against the subsidy for the first-time Hajjis who are being charged Rs 28000 as
airfare, the ‘repeater Hajjis’ from Jammu and Kashmir will have to pay Rs 1,54,000 for the travel while those from most other states are being charged around Rs 70,000. The spokesman said although out of total 8819 pilgrims from J&K, there are only 55 pilgrims registered under repeater category, the State government has taken up the matter with Union Ministries of External Affairs and Civil Aviation with the suggestion that the benefit of air fare subsidy may be extended to the repeater pilgrims as well or at least the air fare for Srinagar Embar-
kation Point be brought down to a reasonable level comparable with the rates prescribed for other Embarkation points like Delhi or Mumbai. He said Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah and Minister for Hajj and Auqaf, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed are in constant touch with the Govt. of India in this regard. The State Hajj Committee reiterates its mission of facilitating the holy journey of the people of the State to Harmain-e-Sharifain and ensures every possible help to all categories of pilgrims every time, the spokesman added.
Congress would not compromise Daughters of faith should follow life of Hazrat on its principles: Soz Jammu, July 14: State Congress President Prof Saifuddin SozMP Sunday exhorted the Congress cadres to strive for and look to a bright future for the party in all three regions of the state. Addressing a day long convention of party delegates of District Jammu Urban, Prof. Soz said that Congress has become a vibrant situation
in all the three regions and it augurs well for promoting secularism, democracy, unity and integrity of the state. The Convention was organized by DCC Jammu Urban under the presidentship of Om Chopra, former MLA. The Convention was
Dr. Farooq visits Pethub monastery, pays respects to Kushok Bakula New Delhi, July 14: Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Dr Farooq Abdullah visited Pethub Monastery at Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and paid his respects. He also interacted with the monks and visited a photo exhibition displaying the life and times of 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche. Recalling himas India's Ambassador in Mongolia, senior statesman, international diplomat and one of the bestknown lamas of Ladakh, Dr Abdullah also remembered his contribution to fostering better ties between India and Mongolia and his efforts in furthering Buddhism
Seeks subsidy or cut down to reasonable level
also addressed by Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand, MP Madan Lal Shamra, Dharam Pal Sharma (Sr. Vice President); Ministers Sham Lal Sharma, Raman Bhalla, Ghulam Ahmed Mir, Ch. Aijaz Ahmed Khan, Shabir Ahmed Khan, Vice Presidents Th. Hari Singh, S. Gurmukh
Nadaam- the National Festival and the biggest festival in the Mongolian calendar. Nadaam festivities include a colourful parade of athletes, monks, soldiers, See Dr. Farooq on Pg. 7
Fatima (RA): Mirwaiz
Srinagar, July 14: Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has said that if the daughters of the faith follow the life of Hazrat Fatima (RA) then it would be of immense help to alleviate the current social evils plaguing the society. Addressing a gathering at Masjid Dawood, Sheikh Mashkwooti (RA) Safak-
adal, Mirwaiz threw light on the sacred month of Ramazaan. He said that the month was full of blessings. He said the people should offer salat in this sacred month and beseech Allah for forgiveness and pity. He said that rewards of fasting are many, but in this month they are multiplied. Mirwaiz said that in See Mirwaiz on Pg. 7
Made ups of crewel, chain stitch exempted from VAT: Kichloo Srinagar, July 14:
in Mongolia. He also praised his contribution as an MP and his deep engagement with welfare and education issues. Later in the day, Dr Abdullah, attended the
Singh, Prem Sagar Aziz, MLC Ravinder Sharma General Secretary & Spokesperson, Mula Ram-Ex-Minister, Janak Raj Gupta-ExMP, MLC Rani Billoria, MLC B.R.Kundal, MLA Indu Pawar-President Mahila Congress, Vinod Sharma, Hans Raj Bhagat, Ch. Zaffarullah, and others. The Convention was attended by delegates from See Soz on Pg. 7
With a view to boosting sale and export of handloom and handicraft products, the State Government has fully exempted Value Added Tax (VAT) on crewel cloths, embroidered chain stitch fabrics and their made ups from the current financial year onwards. This was announced by the Minister of State of Industries and Commerce, Sajad Ahmed Kichloo, while speaking to a gathering of Handloom Weavers, Handcrafts Artisans, Tourists and Amarnathji Yatries, after inaugurating 15 days long Special
Handloom Expo-2013 at Sonamarg-AmarnathJi Yatra base camp today. Kichloo said that government is making every effort to uplift the living standard of Handloom Weavers, adding that 8000 Modern Looms each costing Rs. 55000are being distributed to weavers free of cost. He said about 15000 weaver families have been covered under weavers’ Health Insurance Scheme. The Minister said that The Special Handloom Expo has been organised by the J&K Handloom Development Department and sponsored by the Development Commissioner Handlooms, Union Minis-
try of Textiles with a view to showcase world famous handloom products and to enable tourists and Amarnathji pilgrims to get genuine products at reasonable price tag. The Expo will also provide platformto Handloom weavers to sell their products directly to the customers without exploitation of the middleman. Kichloo asked the weavers to avail benefits of various welfare schemes introduced by the government for them. He also instructed the officers of Handicrafts Department to ensure that benefits of different welfare schemes reach to the genuine weav-
ers. He called for launching comprehensive awareness campaignto educate the weavers about various welfare schemes. The Minister alongwith Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Shantmanu went round various stalls set up by 25 Handloom Cooperative Societies from all over the State and inspected handloom products on display. Speaking on the occasion, Shantmanu called upon the artisans and weavers to produce quality products which can withstand market competition and customer satisfaction. He said every part of the State See Kichloo on Pg. 7
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7 Monday, 15 July 2013 From Front Page........
Taj........
political situation in J&K. “His meeting with Azad was regarding increasing MBBS seats quota in the J&K. The meeting was chaired by Azad and afterwards Taj discussed current political situation with Azad,” they said. “He discussed issues related to lack of sports infrastructure in Kashmir with Scindia and Goswami,” they added
Mishaps........
district. All the injured, who were on way from Baltal to Jammu, were shifted to district hospital Anantnag for treatment, he said, according to KNS. Meanwhile, 17-yearold, Sakib Ahmad Malik son of Abdul Rehman Malik of Cheek-i-Dar Mattan drowned while bathing in river Jehlum near Simthan Bijbehara in the Anantnag district. “Efforts are on to retrieve the body.” A 16-year-old, Adil Ahmad Kuhchay son of Mohammad Shafi of Barsoo, Awantipora drowned in river Jehlum while bathing near Barsoo Awantipora in the district, the spokesman said. Adil’s body was fished out and handed over to his relatives for last rites, he added.
Kamal..........
martyrs but to create violence. State government imposed restrictions to maintain law and order. The day passed peacefully for which I complement the administration,” he said. “After being Chief Minister for three years he (Mufti) is desperate to get the power again. It is frustration on part of him. From day one his only aim is to defame NC,” he added. The NC Additional general secretary said that Public Safety Act (PSA) on which Mufti is ‘raising hue and cry’ was imposed in 1975 during Sheikh sahib’s tenure. “It was formed for jungle smugglers. But the law has been misused. But let Mufti first answer who brought AFSPA to J&K. When he was CM why did he forget about PSA? They are responsible for violence,” he told KNS.
Mirwaiz........
this month people should help the poor and needful besides contributing in charitable activities. Apart from devoting time for the salat and reciting Quran, Mirwaiz said that if a person does not pay attention to eradicate social ills in the society then they cease to be true human beings before Allah. Meanwhile Hurriyat (M) spokesman has expressed serious concern over the ‘cold blooded murder’ of Parvez Ahmad Teli, a trader from Nawab bazaar, in Mumbai. He said that APHC has time and again raised alarm that Kashmiri students and traders working outside state are not safe. He said before as well Kashmiris traders and students have been murdered under mysterious condition.
Soz........
all 71 wards of Jammu Corporation besides, block presidents, office bearers of district congress committee and ex-corporators apart from senior functionaries of the PCC and frontal organizations like Mahila Congress, Youth Congress, INTUC, NSUI and Seva Dal. The PCC Chief also assured the gathering that Congress would not compromise on its principles such as democratizing the grass root institutions of democracy and holding elections to the remaining two tiers of Panchayats and the Local Bodies. He also urged the cadres to seek a reformed and effective attention to the lower strata of the society. The PCC President also placed on record the appreciation of the JKPCC for the leadership and guidance provided by Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Rahul Gandhi. The following resolution was moved in the Convention by working President of the DCC (U) Shri D.S.Langeh which was adopted unanimously. Resolution “The one day convention of the delegates of the District Congress Committee Jammu deeply appreciates the guidance that the AICC and JKPCC is providing for strengthening the Congress party’s rich traditions of effective response to the aspirations of the people; The convention expresses satisfaction for the fact that the congress party has emerged as a vibrant situation in every nook and corner of the state and this situation augurs well for revitalizing the secular and democratic forces in the state; The Convention reiterates its resolve to galvanize democratic polity at the grass roots, throughout the state, to ensure optimum level of inclusive growth and unfettered participation of the people in the development process, on the basis of equity and justice; The Convention further expresses its determination to fight democratically but firmly its battle to seek holding of elections to BDCs, DDPBs, in the Panchayat system and elections to the Local Bodies in the J&K state, as early as possible, in accordance with the Congress party’s unshakable belief that these institutions constitute the rock-bed of the democratic polity; The Convention expresses its commitment to safeguard the basic principles for achieving balanced economic development in all the three regions of the state. The Convention further reiterates its resolve and urges the JKPCC to lend unequivocal support to the process of sensitizing the state administration towards a reformed response to the problems of the less developed sections of the society including the general run of the peasantry, labour, refugees, displaced persons, Ex-Servicemen, artisans, handicrafts workers and other such sections”.
Arrested........
investigation was taken up. The girl was medically examined at the hospital where doctors confirmed the rape. Swift action by Kupwara police led to the arrest of the accused within hours of lodging of the case.
Dr. Farooq.........
musicians, and people dressed as ancient warriors. It is also known for competitions in the country’s most popular sports- the ‘manly sports’ of horse racing, archery, and Mongolian wrestling. Dr Abdullah was in Ulaanbataar on a two-day visit to represent India at the Inaugural Ceremony of the President of Mongolia, Mr. Tsakhia Elbegdorj, who
Daily has been re-elected to a second four-year term. Dr Abdullah also met Foreign Minister Mr Lu Bold and Minister of Environment and Green Development Ms Sanjaasuren Oyun.
Kichloo..........
has its unique handcrafts product known after the name of that particular area. He asked the weavers to focus on revival of antique design in handcrafts and handlooms especially.
Petrol.........
effect from midnight today. Now consumer will have to pay 70 rupees and 44 paise per litre in Delhi, 77 rupees and 76 paise in Kolkata, 73 rupees 60 paise in Chennai and 77 rupees 73 pasie for a litre in Mumbai. In a statement, the Indian Oil corporation said that the petrol price hike is necessitated in the view of increase in the international oil prices and deprecation of rupees against the dollar.
Samoon visits Fruit, Vegetable Mandi Narwal Construction of modern multi-utility cold storage on PPP mode on anvil
Jammu, July 14: Commissioner, Agriculture Production Department, Dr Asgar Hassan Samoon, visited the Fruit and Vegetable Mandi Narwal to take stock of problems being faced by the vegetable and fruit traders. On the occasion, Samoon held a meeting with Fruit and Vegetable traders which was attended by Director Agriculture Jammu Ajay Khajuria, Director Horticulture Jammu Anil Sharma, MD J&K HPMC Syed Rafiq Ahmed besides President Fruit Association Jammu Rajesh Gupta, President Vegetable Association, Ramesh Parihar, Chief Executive Mandies Digvijay Gupta, Asstt. Director Marketing Priyadarshini Parihar and representatives of both the Associations. While interacting with the representatives of traders Associations, Samoon said that their genuine issues regarding drainage and sewerage of the Fruit Mandi, augmentation of tube well for meeting the water supply scarcity, lack of basic infrastructure, delayed completion of sheds will be redressed on priority. He instructed the concerned implementing
agencies to construct a meeting hall in the Fruit Mandi at the earliest. He directed ERA to start the augmentation work on tube well and overhead tank within next 15 days. He also directed the constructing agency of the Horticulture (P&M) department to complete the mechmadization and drainage facility, in addition to completion of two auction platforms in Phase -2 for which the work is in progress. Responding to the demand of uninterrupted power supply to Mandi, the Commissioner assured that the matter will be taken up with the concerned department. It was also decided that the land available with HPMC will be utilized for construction of a modern multi-utility/commodity cold storage on public private partnership mode. The other points which were discussed in the meeting included implementation of APMR Act and amendment thereof for which recommendations from different Fruit and Ve g e t a b l e T r a d e r s ’ Unions are being sought. The officers of the Horticulture (P&M) briefed about the ongoing development works.
Bhalla asks JMC to intensify sanitation drive Jammu, July 14: Underlining the importance of proper sanitation especially during monsoon, Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture, Raman Bhalla, has asked the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) to further intensify sanitation drives in nallahs of different areas of city of temples particularly flood prone localities. The Minister was interacting with the JMC officers during his extensive tour to Channi Himmat, Channi Himmat Housing Colony, Trikuta Nagar Extension and Gangyal areas. Mr. Bhalla asked JMC to remove debris from nallahs in several areas including Channi Himmat, Rahim Nagar, Rajiv Nagar, Gangyal, Digiana, Trikuta Nagar Extension, Bhour Camp so that the residents of these areas do not face any inconvenience during rainy season. He said the Government has approved a plan of Rs. 68 crore for channelization of Trikuta Nagar, Nanak Nagar, Shastri Nagar, Digiana Ashram, Ambedkar Nagar, Channi Himmat, Dashmesh Nagar, Gangyal and Rampura nallahs.
Srinagar, July 14 (KNS): Peoples’ Conference District President Kupwara, Advocate Bashir Ahmed Dar has expressed disappointment at the ‘indifferent and callous attitude’ of the government in refusing to initiate an inquiry into the irregularity at Service Selection Board (SSB) in the appointment procedures of General Line Teachers for Kupwara. After the High Court had quashed the final list and termed the process illegal and in violation of the regulations, the SSB was given three months to conduct fresh interviews and finalize the process of appointment. “Despite this, the SSB and the Government in general has arrogantly defied these orders and done little to correct its earlier misadventure,” Dar said in a statement. He said that the process of selection was, as pointed out by the High Court, marred by irregularities and illegalities from the very start. “This had led to
tives and its parent meters to 4,500 meters and company Finmeccanica on who all were party to the the charges of paying d e c i s i o n , ” s a i d a n bribes in the R3,600-crore investigator. Sources say, VVIP chopper deal with in the next few weeks, CBI India. Investigators have s l e u t h s w i l l d e c i d e segregated their probe into whether there was any three parts — money trail criminal intent in the under which bribes were decision or not. Only then routed to the accused in the decision will be taken I n d i a , r e d u c t i o n o f to call them for questionoperational requirement ing,” said an investigator. (OR) or the height at which “The Air Force was choppers could fly and represented in these flight evaluation and trials meetings by the Deputy of AgustaWestland and its Air Chief. The Air Force, competitor Sikorsky. for more than a year, was “Narayanan was the consistently speaking National Security Advisor against reduction of the and BV Wanchoo was OR. But strangely when chief of the Special the Deputy Air Chief Protection Group in 2005. informed the then Air They participated in Chief SP Tyagi about it, he meetings that deliberated endorsed the decision on on the reduction of the OR file in March 2005,” in order to avoid single claimed the investigator. vendor situation. The key Reduction in the OR issue is how the OR was allowed AgustaWestland changed from 6,000 to enter in the fray again.
'Snowden chose not to release most damaging data' Moscow, July 14: Edward Snowden possesses data that could prove far more "damaging" to the US government but the fugitive leaker has chosen not to release them, said a journalist who first broke the story. Glenn Greenwald told Argentina's La Nacion paper that Snowden, who is currently stranded in Moscow, had only sought to alert people that information they thought was private was being exploited by US intelligence agencies. "Snowden has
The Minister called upon the inhabitants of Rajiv Nagar, Gangyal, Digiana, Trikuta Nagar and Bhour Camp not to dump building material in nallahs. This not only creates problems for the JMC while removing the debris (mulba) but also causes clogging of water which enters into the houses, he added. Responding to the demand of Trikuta Nagar Extension people, Bhalla informed that Government has earmarked Rs. 20 lakh for construction of 150-meter retaining wall of nallah near Sai Vihar. Besides, Rs. 40 lakh have been earmarked for upgradation of internal links of Trikuta Nagar.Bhalla said that a Rs 2.5 crore project envisaging installation of tube well and laying of supply pipes to improve drinking water scenario in Trikuta Nagar, Basant Vihar and Lakshmi Enclave, is in offing. Bhalla informed the people that the Power Development Department has already shifted the load of Greater Kailash station to Bari Brahamna station so that the people of Babliana, Bandhu Rakh, Gangyal, Trikuta
Nagar, Channi Himmat, Greater Kailash, Sainik Colony would get relief from uninterrupted power supply. He said Government is committed to provide regular power supply in the metered areas of the state. He called upon the people to use drinking water and power judiciously and avoid power theft and help PDD in identifying those who misuse power. He said that government has spent Rs. 5 crore under PDD sector for augmentation of 132/33 KV transformation from 100 MVA to 150 MVA at Gladni Grid Station, Narwal to cater to the electricity needs of people of several areas of the city. Later, the Minister visited Transport Nagar in Narwal and attended a function organized by the Inter State Bus Terminal Association (ISBT). On the occasion, the representatives of the ISBT projected their grievances which included upgradation of link road to ISBT and allotment of site for establishment of auto rickshaw stand. Bhalla assured the association that their issues would be looked into for necessary action.
Selection of teachers in Kupwara marred by indifferent govt: PC
Bengal, Goa governors may be examined by CBI New Delhi, July 15: The CBI is deliberating examination of two sitting governors- MK Narayanan of West Bengal and BV Wanchoo of Goa in the AgustaWestland deal, sources told HT. The CBI has registered an FIR in AgustaWestland deal under which 12 choppers were to be procured by India. The agency has named former Air Force chief SP Tyagi, his three cousins and nine others along with AgustaWestland and its parent company Finmeccanica as accused in the FIR. Investigators allege that AgustaWestland paid a bribe of Rs. 362 crore to middlemen to swing the deal in its favour. The Italian prosecutors are also conducting trial of AgustaWestland execu-
ZABARWAN TIMES
enough information to cause more damage to the US government in a minute alone than anyone else has ever had in the history of the United States," he told the paper in an interview published on Saturday. "But that's not his goal," said Greenwald, who published a series of stories in Britain's Guardian newspaper based on top-secret documents about sweeping US surveillance programmes that were leaked by Snowden.
the quashing of the final list of 563 appointees. The selection procedure was brazenly influenced and manipulated from the very start by the elected local representatives who belong to the ruling party. A third committee, in violation of the rules, was set up, seemingly on the directions of the local MLAs, to hold interviews in Srinagar surprisingly after the interview process had concluded. It doesn’t take a genius to understand that most of the appointments made in this additional, ill egally co nstit uted committee were fictitious and illegal,” he alleged. “Why is the government, despite the observations of the High Court, is shielding the guilty officials and politicians who are hell bent on toying with the future of these applicants? Why is the big elephant in the room invisible to the authorities? On whose directives was the third committee constituted?” Dar asked. The PC leader said that all
the selections were not illegal or wrongful “but because of the brazen illegality of the third committee and the interviews conducted in violation of rules, everybody – including those who made it on their merit – were made to suffer.” “Tragically now, there are apprehensions that the process is again being manipulated under political influence and pressures despite the embarrassment caused to the SSB and the government due to the observations of the High Court. How can the government and the SSB violate the orders of the Court with such arrogance?” he asked. The PC District President demanded that the government takes this issue seriously and conducts an inquiry into this irregularity at SSB and, in deference and in adherence to the observations and orders of the High Court completes the appointment procedure.
4.5 magnitude quake hits Himachal Pradesh Shimla, July 14: Less than a week after a moderate intensity earthquake rocked Himachal Pradesh, another quake in the state triggered panic among the people, an official said in Shimla on Sunday. However, there was no loss of life. Tremors of the magnitude 4.5 earthquake were felt for some seconds in several parts of the state at 11.20 pm on Saturday, an official of the meteorological office told IANS. The epicentre of the quake, which was mild, was in Kangra district. Earlier, a moderate intensity earthquake of magnitude-5 hit the state July 9. At that time its epicentre was on the border of districts of Chamba and Lahaul-Spiti, bordering Jammu and Kashmir. Before that, the state was rocked by low intensity earthquakes four times between June 5 and 6. Himachal Pradesh had witnessed the most devastating earthquake in 1905 in the Kangra Valley, in which more than 20,000 people were killed.
Nuclear reactor at Kudankulam starts fission
Chennai, July 14: The much awaited event for the Indian nuclear establishment, the first unit at Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KNPP) and India's 21st reactor, began the nuclear fission process on Saturday night, officials of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) said. "At 23.05, the first reactor attained criticality and all the parameters are normal," a jubilant RS Sundar, site director of KNPP, told IANS over phone. According to him, sustained nuclear reaction has been achieved and all parameters are as per expectations. "After a long time, the mood here is good," he added. Top officials of the Indian nuclear establishment, including RK S inha, chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and secretary, department of atomic energy (DAE), and KC Purohit, chairman and manag ing director of NPCIL among others, are at Kudankulam to see the first of the two Russian-made units attain criticality in a smooth manner. Earlier speaking, Purohit said the process towards criticality was proceeding smoothly as per the procedure laid down. India's atomic power plant operator, NPCIL is setting up two 1,000 MW reactors
with Russian technology and equipments at Kudankulam, around 650 km from Chennai. The over Rs.17,000 crore project, which generated severe protests from the locals, has started generating heat and steam from the 163 uranium fuel bundles loaded in the reactor. The reactor was loaded with fuel assemblies containing about 80 tonnes of uranium oxide. On July 11 night, armed with the AERB's clearance, the KNPP started its journey towards attaining criticality. According to officials, several low power tests will be carried out in order to verify the conformance of the reactor characteristics to design objectives. If the reports are satisfactory, then the AERB will give its clearance for the next stage, which is phase-wise increase in reactor power level. At the first stage, the plant will be synchronised with the southern grid when power generation touches 400 MW. That is expected to happen in 30-45 days. After necessary regulatory clearances the power generation will be increased gradually to 50%, 75%, 90% and finally 100%. When that happens, the total installed nuclear power capacity in the country will
go up to 5,780 MW. KNPP is India's first pressurised water reactor belonging to the light water reactor category. While the power from KNPP will be shared by the southern states, the lion's share will be for the home state Tamil Nadu, which is suffering from power deficit. "Tamil Nadu's share of the 1,000 MW will be 463 MW. As and when the power comes to our grid, it will certainly ease the power shortage to some extent," a senior official at Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Ltd (TANGEDCO) told IANS. "The utility sources power from various central power generating units at varied rates but less than Rs. 3 per unit whereas the power from KNPP will be over Rs.3 per unit," he added. As for the second unit at KNPP, he said there will be time lag of around six/eight months, Sinha told IANS. According to Sinha, it was matter of time before the general framework agreement is signed with the Russian suppliers for the third and fourth units. It is learnt construction work for the administrative building for the next two units is progressing at KNPP site.
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Editorial/Opinion The Daily
Zabarwan Times Monday, 15 July 2013
Fuel Adulteration
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here is no questioning that petrol available at refilling stations in Kashmir, like many parts of India, is adulterated primarily with diesel and sometimes with kerosene as well and the action taken by petroleum companies and the Union Ministry of Petroleum to check this adulteration is justified. In fact, it is the most appropriate step towards relieving vehicle owners of frequent overhauls of their engines that get spoiled by the adulterated fuel sold at petrol stations. In a place like Srinagar where vehicle numbers are soaring each passing day and have already surpassed all estimations, the adulteration serves as a clandestine means of minting large amounts of money from vehicle owners. While petrol stations have failed to attract customers by quality services and by providing facilities other than petrol, adulteration has come to their advantage along with soaring vehicle numbers. Amid this, as the petrol station owners threaten of shutting down stations in case the drive continues, the motive is clearly getting their adulteration authenticated. Though they claim that the fuel is adulterated at source, the claim holds little ground given the norms petroleum companies observe. A fuel tanker that has transported kerosene is later refilled with petrol cannot adulterate fuel beyond a certain degree – at least not to the degree that was found at the petrol stations sealed by the government in area of Srinagar. And when the government is ready to act against the petroleum companies as well in case their products is found adulterated at source, the threat of a shutdown has no other motive than preventing the government from protecting consumer rights. The fact is that the dealers are frustrated by the court decision allowing the drive to test samples on the spot through a high tech kit that can indicate levels of adulteration which have been going unnoticed earlier. Though the levels are not hard to maintain, dealers are trying to cash on the essentiality of the service they are providing. By threatening to shut down, they are blackmailing our society. However, the station owners must realize that government can also act against them in case they do not budge before the government on an issue they have already been wrong in the court of law. Lax fuel standards easily allow for some amount of adulteration. It is possible to adulterate 'intelligently' without transgressing the standards, and still earn huge profits. The government refuses to adopt alternative test methods to detect adulteration accurately, such as the fingerprinting of fuel samples. Shockingly, while the country endures huge losses and public health is compromised on account of this illegal trade, the union ministry of petroleum and natural gas has weakened the existing penalties for the crime of adulteration. The earlier penalty of Rs 1,00,000 and the suspension of sales and supplies of all products for 45 days for the first offence of adulteration has been lowered to Rs 20,000 and a suspension of supplies for 30 days. Oil companies are not accountable for the quality of fuel at the retail end. Accountability is broken across the fuel supply chain. When caught, it is the transporter or the retailer who is hauled up, not the oil company. Strict liability must be imposed on oil companies for them to take ultimate responsibility for the quality of fuel they supply. This is possible by ensuring independent inspections, testing and audit of retail outlets and a public broadcast of the results to influence consumer preferences for retail outlets.
Daily
ZABARWAN TIMES 6
Monday, 15 July 2013
Direct Benefits Transfer: Timely and Quick Transfer to Beneficiaries
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he Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) scheme first found mention in the 2011-12 Union Budget speech, by the then Finance Minister, Pranab Mukherjee who had stated that the government plans to move towards direct transfer of cash subsidy for kerosene, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and fertilizers. A task force headed by Nandan Nilekani was set up to work out the modalities of operationalising Direct Cash Transfer for these items. Later this task force submitted its report in February 2012. The Government launched Direct Cash Transfer scheme on 1 January 2013 to transfer cash into bank accounts of beneficiaries across 20 districts in the country. The scheme has now been rechristened as Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) and curtailed beneficiary districts to 20. It covers 7 welfare schemes instead of 20. At least two lakh beneficiaries are expected to benefit from DBT scheme immediately. Food, fertilisers, and fuel have been kept out of its purview for the present. The National Food Security Bill, 2011, pending in Parliament, includes cash transfer and food coupons as possible alternative mechanisms to the Public Distribution System. But it should be borne in mind that DBT is just been launched. There would be several lessons on the way as scheme expands and progress and is implemented in the entire country before 2014. How does the Scheme Work? The money is directly transferred into bank accounts of beneficiaries having Aadhar cards. The Aadhaar number is a unique identification number that every resident of India (regardless of citizenship) is entitled to get after he/she furnishes demographic and biometric information. LPG and kerosene subsidies, pension payments, scholarships and employment guarantee scheme payments as well as benefits under other government welfare programmes will be made directly to beneficiaries. The money can then be used to buy services from the market. Already on a pilot basis Electronic Benefit Transfer has begun in Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal,
Karnataka, Puducherry and Sikkim. The Government claims the results are encouraging. Under the DBT each and every beneficiary has to establish his identity and eligibility many times by producing multiple documents for verification. The verification of such documents is done by multiple authorities. Interestingly an Aadhaar enabled bank account can be
64,000 crore. India’s budget deficit was 5.8 per cent of gross domestic product in the financial year ending 2012 March. Secondly, unlike other welfare scheme launched so far by the Centre, DBT helps in timely and quick transfer to intended beneficiaries. Thirdly, the transfer of direct cash into account of targeted beneficiary is a winning proposition for the recipients as
Under the DBT each and every beneficiary has to establish his identity and eligibility many times by producing multiple
documents for verification. The verification of such documents is done by multiple authorities. Interestingly an Aadhaar
enabled bank account can be used by the beneficiary to receive multiple welfare
payments as opposed to the one scheme,
one bank approach, followed by a number of state governments.
used by the beneficiary to receive multiple welfare payments as opposed to the one scheme, one bank approach, followed by a number of state governments. A Game Changer Government believes that the Direct Cash Transfer or Direct Benefits Transfer is likely to be a game-changer in more than one way. The Centre releases as much as Rs 2, 00,000 crore as subsidies under various schemes for the targeted sections across the country. Therefore it is within its right to devise methods to reach beneficiaries the way it wants. Firstly, the Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) scheme is aimed at cutting the bloated subsidy bill of Rs.1,
it aims to eliminate middlemen in various government sponsored welfare schemes and subsidized food, fuel and fertiliser schemes. Take for instance, it's estimated that public coffers can be richer by several crore yearly just by switching to cash handouts for LPG and kerosene, a proposed move that would also curb diversion of subsidised cylinders for commercial use and diesel adulteration with inexpensive kerosene. Bringing all subsidies under DBT's ambit can be the major fiscal game-changer the economy needs very much. Fourthly, the Direct Benefits Transfer scheme is likely to be simple and error free. On the basis of Aadhar cards money is deposited in beneficiaries’ accounts.
Fifthly indirect transfers are more prone to leakages than direct cash transfers. So, that is why the Central Government has put in a mechanism of direct cash transfer. According to Planning Commission the Public Distribution System has become so inefficient that 58 per cent of the subsidized grains do not reach targeted beneficiaries while one-third of it siphoned from the system. Sixthly, the Aadhar based DBT helps eliminate duplicate cards and cards for non-existent persons or ghost beneficiaries often found in schemes such as the PDS and MNREGS. Seventhly, with the actual transfer of cash taking place with the help of micro automated teller machines (ATMs) it would infuse financial inclusion on a greater scale in rural India. Quoting a World Bank Study the Reserve Bank of India last year in its annual report has said, in India only 35 per cent have formal accounts versus an average of 41 per cent in developing economies. With the implementation of DBT, it could fuel financial inclusion. Eighthly, aided by Aadhar technology Direct Benefits Transfer will not be a mere welfare scheme but also the world's largest experiment in administrative reform. It will revolutionise the delivery of welfare measures in world’s populous democracy. DBT: Not a Magic Wand Can Direct Benefits Transfer Scheme act like magic wand? Probably it cannot solve all the problems by India’s poor and improve country human resources index. It will have problems with banks, post offices and online connectivity. These have to be resolved. But there is no point in throwing the baby with bath water attitude and abandon DBT altogether. DBT in ultimate analysis aims at poverty elimination, inclusive growth and delivering better welfare measures. No doubt rampant corruption, inefficiencies and leakages have made many welfare schemes dysfunctional. Direct Benefits Transfer to the poor aims to mitigate these many malaises. Considering these benefits, India would be in right direction to implement cash transfer though there would be many lessons to be learnt and hurdles to cross.
Investment Opportunities for NRIs in India
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he Government has taken various steps to promote investments by Indians living abroad, in India. The Government plays a pivotal role in investment promotion, through dissemination of information on the investment climate and opportunities in India and by advising prospective investors including the Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) about the investment policies and procedures and opportunities. For the purpose of investments in India, it should be known that a NRI is a person residing outside India, but who is a citizen of India or is a Person of Indian Origin. A Person of Indian Origin is one who or whose ancestors was an Indian national and who is presently holding any other country’s citizenship/nationality. The Government has a liberal and transparent policy for Foreign Direct Investment, including investments from NRIs, wherein most of the sectors are open to FDI under the automatic route. NRIs can make investment in India under various schedules of Foreign Exchange Management (Issue or Transfer of Security by a Person Resident outside India) Regulations, 2000 as amended from time to time. Investment under FDI Scheme contained in Schedule 1 of these Regulations, permits 100 per cent NRI investments, under the automatic route, in the sector of townships, housing, built-up infrastructure and constructiondevelopment projects (which include, but are not restricted to, housing, commercial premises, hotels, resorts, hospitals, educational institutions, recreational facilities, city and regional level infrastructure), without the conditionalities attached to FDI in such projects. It also grants a special dispensation for NRI investments in the sectors of Scheduled Air Transport Services/Domestic Scheduled Passenger Airlines, Non-Scheduled Air Transport Services, Ground Handling Services, wherein 100 per cent NRI investment is
allowed under the automatic route. Along shares/convertible debentures of an Indian with these, NRIs can also invest in company whether by public issue or share/convertible debentures of an Indian private placement or right issue. In terms of company under FDI scheme subject to Schedule 5 to Notification No. FEMA 20, terms and conditions specified in Schedule an NRI may, without limit, purchase on 1 to Notification No. FEMA 20. An NRI repatriation basis, Government dated can purchase and sell shares/convertible securities (other than bearer securities) or debentures of an Indian company on both treasury bills or units of domestic mutual repatriation and non-repatriation basis funds; bonds issued by a PSU in India; under Portfolio Investment Scheme (PIS), non-convertible debentures of a company through registered broker or recognised incorporated in India; bonds/units issued Stock Exchanges in India. The individual by Infrastructure Debt Funds, Perpetual limit for NRI under PIS is five per cent of debt instruments and debt capital instruthe paid up capital/paid up value of each ments issued by banks in India and shares series of convertible debentures of an in Public Sector Enterprises being disIndian company and aggregate limit for all invested by the Government. According to NRIs taken together is one per cent of the the terms of the same Schedule, a NRI or an
Fund (PPF). The Government, in order to promote NRIs to bring in money into India, extended some more facilities to them. Banks are free to determine the interest rates on both savings deposits and term deposits of maturity of one year and above under the Non-Resident External (NRE) deposits and savings deposits under NonResident Ordinary (NRO) account. An NRE account is one which can be opened only by the non-resident himself and not through the holder of the power of attorney. Only NRIs can become joint account holders in the case of NRE account. On the other hand, NRO accounts may be held jointly with residents and /or with NRIs. Along with this, the banks may also sanction Rupee loans in India or foreign currency loans outside India to either the The Government, in order to promote NRIs account holder or third party to the extent of the balance in the NRE/ Foreign to bring in money into India, extended Currency Non Resident (Bank) account, subject to the margin requirements. To help some more facilities to them. Banks are free NRIs to maintain FCNR deposits in other currency as well, since October 2011, FCNR (B) accounts have been permitted to to determine the interest rates on both be opened in any freely convertible currency. Moreover, NRIs are, since September 2011, also eligible to open savings deposits and term deposits of NRE/FCNR account with resident. The has also set up ‘Invest India’, maturity of one year and above under the aGovernment joint venture company between the Department of Industrial Policy and Non-Resident External (NRE) deposits and Promotion and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, as a not-for-profit, single window facilitator, savings deposits under Non-Resident for prospective overseas investors, to act as a structured mechanism for attracting Ordinary (NRO) account. investment. On the other hand, the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs has paid up capital/paid up value of the Overseas Corporate Body may, without established Overseas Indian Facilitation company. This limit can be increased by limit, purchase on non-repatriation basis, Centre to facilitate potential NRIs and the Indian company to 24 per cent by dated Government securities (other than overseas corporate bodies of overseas passing a Board resolution and special bearer securities), treasury bills, units of Indians which want to invest in India. Annual General Meeting resolution. Apart domestic mutual funds, units of Money OIFC has organised several investment from this, an NRI, barring certain sectors, Market Mutual Funds in India, or National and interactive meets/roadshows in according to Schedule 4 to Notification Plan/Savings Certificates. However, NRIs different countries. It has also organised No. FEMA 20, may without any limit have not being given the permission to ‘Market Place’ during the annual Pravasi purchase on non-repatriation basis invest in small savings or Public Provident Bharatiya Divas event in India.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer.
HE A L+H TIMES 55 ZABARWAN Monday | 15 july, 2013
4 Foods for a raging libido
If you feel that your relationship is turning from deeply-in-love to boring, it isn't because you want to make it dull. The reason is that you simply find yourself in no mood for romance. Grab these foods to spice up your relationship and sex life.The reasons for a lacking libido can range from too many things on your todo list and working too many hours to your hormones
increasing your sex drive. 2. Aparagus Asparagus is high in the B vitamin folate that helps increase your production of histamine. Histamine is important for increasing the sex drive in men and women. 3. Avocados Loaded with potassium, avocados boost libido for both sexes. And they're rich in folic acid that provides energy and stamina - both
being out of whack. This is where food plays a role. Here are four delicious items you can work into your diet that will increase your libido, and help you work out of your clothes... 1. Watermelon Coined 'the new Viagra', watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid that relaxes blood vessels thereby
of which are important once your libido is restored. 4. Chillies If you like it hot and spicy, this one will bring a smile on your face! Chillies contain capsaicin, a chemical which also increases blood flow and triggers the release of moodenhancing endorphins that naturally pump up your libido.
Farting may help cure high BP
Flatulence could help treat patients with high blood pressure, according to a new research.
Hydrogen sulphide — a toxic gas that is generated by bacteria living in the human gut — has been shown to control blood pressure in mice. The study showed that the rodents with higher levels of the gas had lower blood pressure than those with less. Boffins at Johns Hopkins University, in Baltimore, Maryland, US, found that hydrogen sulphide in flatus — informally known as a fart — is also produced by an enzyme in blood vessels where it relaxes them and lowers blood pressure. Now researchers at China's Southeast University in Nanjing are trying to figure out the possibility of using this to create a treatment for people suffering from high blood pressure. "Despite the treatment's potential, using gas to treat high blood pressure has yet to be tested on humans," the Sun quoted Professor Yao Yuyu from the uni's Zhongda Hospital as saying. "The effective dosage could prove difficult to establish due to the difference in size between humans and mice. "The gas could also have negative effects on other parts of the body," he added.
Red meat – to eat or not to eat?
Research claimed that women who cut down on red meat are likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. We explore...
According to a study by the Deakin University, Australia, women who cut down on red meat are likely to suffer twice as much from anxiety and depression. The study showed more than 1,000 women completely switching to protein such as chicken and fish are not as healthy as they are supposed to be. Felice Jacka from the university says, "We had originally thought that red meat might not be good for mental health, as studies from other countries had found that the consumption of red meat to be associated with physical health risks — but eventually it turned out to be important." Wellness experts are of the opinion that eating a moderate amount of lean red meat, which is roughly about three to four small, palm-sized pieces a week, would be important for overall health and would help women fight depression and anxiety. Red meat contains high level of nutrients including Omega-3 fatty acids which are crucial for mental as well as physical health. Dr Jivesh Shetty, nutrition expert, says, "Red meat has
How binge drinking harms your health Men and women have different drinking capacities and being drunk slows down your reaction time and ability to process information. Clinical psychologist Seema Hingorrany says that binge drinking is a common pattern of excessive alcohol use and refers to drinking heavily over a short period of time with the intention of getting drunk, resulting in immediate and severe intoxication. “The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking that brings a person’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) to 0.08 grams per cent or above. This typically happens when men consume five or more drinks, and when women consume four or more drinks, in about two hours,” she says. Obesity surgeon Dr Manish Motwan says that binge drinking is most common among 16 to 24-year-olds. “Consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period of time is getting very popular today but can have several consequences,” he says. How harmful is binge drinking? Possible increased risk of neurological disorders, heart problems, memory loss, sexual problems (especially male impotency). Risk of developing emotional problems such as depression, problems at college or work
and issues within relationships. Changes in mood and executive function can alter behaviour in ways that could promote progression to alcohol dependence. Acute psychological complications and
Abstaining from drinks all week and getting drunk on the weekend is not as good an idea as you think it is.
Nutrition therapist Purwa Duggal says that binge drinking can have adverse effects on the body since it raises the persons’ alcohol blood concentration level. “Alcohol intoxication can be harmful for several reasons - it can impair brain function resulting in poor judgment, reduced reaction time, loss of balance and motor skills or slurred speech. Dilation of blood vessels causing a feeling of warmth but actually resulting in rapid loss of body heat is a common effect. There is also an increased risk of certain cancers, stroke and liver diseases. Damage to a developing foetus is also possible if consumed by pregnant women. There is also an increased risk accidents, violence, and other injuries,” she says.
The nature and severity of the problem depends on how frequently it occurs and how long is it maintained. Though daily heavy drinking is known to have a greater health impact than binge episodes, excessive drinking in either forms may cause health problems, such as liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, high blood pressure and unintentional injuries, etc.
Addicted to pills? Dr Parul R Sheth says that overthe-counter (OTC) medications or non-prescriptions drugs are generally safe when taken exactly as instructed on the label or packaging. “While they do get rid of aches and pains, there are side effects and risks attached. These medications can cause acid reflux, heartburn, problems with certain medical conditions, may interact with food or other medications, all which can be dangerous. If you happen to misuse OTC pills, you may end up with stomach ulcers, kidney damage, liver damage, heart attacks or even strokes in the long run,” says Dr Parul. According to physician Dr Abhay Shirkhande, people can get addicted to all sorts of medicines - pain killers, antidepressants, sedatives, antacids or even a cough syrup. “In a majority of the cases, the addiction starts when people start treating themselves. The easy availability of drugs over the counter without prescription or governmental control is another reason for this addiction. Many times ignorance about side effects makes people consume such medicines for longer periods of time,” says Dr Shirkhande. Don’t self-prescribe medicine When you self-prescribe drugs like an-
tidepressants, sleeping pills or an antibiotic, it can be potentially harmful especially when you’re unaware of the specific compound that goes in it, the required dosage or how long you need to take the medication. “It is unwise to self-diagnose because medications can have side effects, which can cause more trouble than cure you,” says Dr
pills include heartburn, nausea, stomach ulcers, ringing sensation in ears, worsening of asthma, skin rashes, blood disorders, stomach upsets, drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, liver problems, hair loss, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, impotence, inability to sleep, constipation etc. Treatment Dr Shirkhande says that an addict first has to undergo complete detoxification to get rid of toxins in the body. “There is a noticeable improvement in the condition once this is done. The second step is to exercise self control and make lifestyle changes. This includes going on a healthy diet and exercising. Meditation, running, yoga, walking, etc. are good practices. Seek the help of an expert to help overcome your addiction. Group therapy is another option, where you can talk to people suffering from the same problem. Sharing understanding, supporting and encouraging each other can be of great help,” he ends. Symptoms of addiction You have strong cravings for the medication.Your drug use has become compulsive and you’re taking more than the prescribed dose.
tein. It is rich in iron with good bio-availability which helps in the development and well-being of the mind. But make sure to not consume preserved meats like ham, bacon, salami as they are high in their fat content and are often held responsible for chronic conditions like cancers." Fitness experts also suggest to not pairing meat with whole grains as they lack in fibre. You should ideally consume red meat only twice a week.
Cholesterol has cancer fighting goodness?
Is binge drinking worse than drinking everyday?
mental processing is impaired when a person engages in binge drinking episodes.
protein that satiates your hunger and keeps you happy. Red meat is also a source of Vitamin B which makes you more energetic." Though red meat is good for your health, stick to lean-cut meat to avoid excessive fat consumption and heart issues. Make sure you exercise enough to utilise excessive calorie/ protein intake say experts. Dr Namita Nanal, nutritionist, says, "Red meat is an excellent source of pro-
In a new study, scientists have argued that cholesterol may slow or stop cancer cell growth. The study, which includes a Simon Fraser University researcher, describes how cholesterol-binding proteins called ORPs may control cell growth in A Detour for Yeast Oxysterol Binding Proteins. The scientists came to their conclusion while trying to understand how cholesterol moves around inside cells in the fat’s journey to cell surfaces where it reinforces their outer membrane. “The assumption was that ORPs bind and transport cholesterol inside cells in a similar fashion to how lipoproteins bind and move around the fat outside cells through the blood stream,” Chris Beh, said. Beh and his colleagues noted that genetic changes
engineered by them block the ability of ORPs to bind cholesterol but don’t stop ORPs from functioning. In fact, these altered ORPs work better and activate other regulator proteins, which in turn trigger a variety of cellular processes
that stimulate cell growth. The scientists believe this happened because cholesterol-binding normally interferes with ORPs’ ability to bind to another lipid or fat called PI4P, which is important for cell growth. “That told us that ORPs probably have nothing to do
Benefits of mustard seeds
Body hurts? Something doesn’t feel right? How easy it is to reach out and pop some pills to get soothing relief. But here’s the catch - self prescribing pills may end up doing you more harm than good.
Mustard seeds have been around since almost 5,000 years. They’re known to have numerous benefits since they’re low in calories and high in nutritional value and have a lot of antibacterial and antiseptic qualities.
Parul. Consultant physician Dr Pradip Shah says that several times confusion with medicine names can lead to wrong medication and serious ill effects. “Most painkillers contain Acetaminophen, which when taken in high doses causes acute liver failure. Certain painkillers lead to kidney damage, cause constipation, gastritis and peptic ulcer disease,” he says. Problems In the long run, women who are addicted can have irregular and prolonged menstruation. Other side effects of indiscriminate use of
They’re available in different varieties - black mustard, white mustard and brown Indian mustard, in whole as well as in powdered form. Mustard oil is known to be great for the skin because it generates warmth. Mustard seeds are rich in a nutrient called selenium, known for its high anti-inflammatory effects. n The high source of magne-
sium in mustard seeds helps reducing the severity of asthma attacks and certain symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and lowering blood pressure. Suffer from migraines? Mustard seeds are known to
ber - include them in your diet. For people who suffer from a bad appetite, here’s something that will be really helpful. Mix a few black mustard seeds with milk and
give relief from the number of migraine attacks you get. Mustard seeds are very rich in calcium, manganese, omega 3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, protein and dietary fi-
have it 15 to 20 minutes before your meal. Mustard seeds are excellent for digestion because they increase the metabolism rate of your body.
with moving around cholesterol within cells. “Rather cholesterolbinding puts the brakes on ORP’s ability to bind to PI4P which, if left unchecked, could accelerate cell growth like crazy. “Given that uncontrolled cell growth is a key feature of cancer, this means gaining a better understanding of the true purpose of cholesterol-binding within cells could be important in cancer treatment,” he said.Beh and his colleagues draw on two important facts to support their conclusion. “First, cancer cells require ORPs to survive. “Second, other scientists have previously shown that a new class of natural compounds that look like steroids or cholesterol can kill a broad spectrum of different cancer cells,” he added.
Exercises to burn 200 calories daily! There is nothing better than being in great physical shape. You look attractive to yourself, and to your partner, not to mention how you light up every party. So look and feel on top of the world by trying out these exercises which will help you burn at least 200 calories daily. Qigong: These exercises involve various breath control techniques, meditation and relaxation. It is similar to pranayama. While doing Qigong, the practitioner spends little energy, but at the end of a session there is profuse perspiration, little elevation in blood pressure, but increased levels of energy. Budokon: If you enjoy yoga but are also in love with the high-intensity kickboxing class across the hall, try a fusion class like Budokon (bu-do-kon) and get hip with the Hollywood crowd.
New technique to diagnose infants at malaria risk A research team has developed a new molecular technology, which will improve evaluation of malaria control methods and vaccine development. The technique that accurately determines the risk of infants in endemic countries developing clinical malaria could provide a valuable tool for evaluating new malaria prevention strategies and vaccines. The technique could even help to understand how anti-malarial vaccine and treatment strategies act to reduce malaria, said researchers from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, University of Basel and the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research. Professor Ivo Mueller from the Walter and
Eliza Hall Institute's Infection and Immunity division said the research team discovered that the number of new malaria parasites that infants acquire over time is strongly linked to the risk that the child will develop clinical disease. "It was very clear that infection with new and genetically different malaria parasites was the single biggest factor in determining the risk of an infant becoming sick from malaria, more than any other factor including age, the use of bed nets or the risk of transmission in the area. We were actually surprised by how clear the correlation was," Professor Mueller said. The molecular technique to genetically differentiate Plasmodium falciparum parasites was developed by Dr Ingrid Felger at the Department
of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Switzerland. Professor Terry Speed from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute's Bioinformatics division helped to develop mathematical algorithms to process the data. Dr Felger said the researchers used highthroughput screening to determine the number of genetically-distinct Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites that acquired by Papua New Guinean children aged one to four over a period of 16 months. "This new research tool is elegantly simple but very powerful, and easily applicable in many circumstances, without a high level of technology or
training," Dr Felger said. "We think it could have profound applications. This technology will be particularly useful for assessing ideal vaccine candidates for preventing malaria, help to develop better ways of performing future human trials of new potential malaria vaccines, and identifying the mechanism of action for existing vaccines and treatments," he added. Each year more than 250 million people worldwide contract malaria, and up to one million people die. Malaria is particularly dangerous for children under five and pregnant women. Plasmodium falciparum is the most lethal of the four Plasmodium species, and is responsible for most clinical disease.
Professor Mueller said the technology is already being used in the field, recently helping to explain why people with sickle-cell anaemia are less at risk of malaria infection. He said that accurately assessing the burden of malaria parasites acquired by children in countries where the disease is endemic is invaluable. "One of our biggest problems in developing useful vaccines, treatments and preventative strategies for malaria is reliably predicting the distribution and risk of malaria at an individual level. There is huge variation in the risk of developing clinical malaria within a community or village, or within a particular age group, and we now have an accurate way to measure this," Professor Mueller said.