Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 15 March

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SATURDAY

15 March | 2014 | 13 Jamadi-Ul-Awal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

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http://www.zabarwantimes.com

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VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 73 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)

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

Lok Sabha elections 2014 Threat, preparation level at par with last elections: DGP

Performs ramp walk

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See More On Page 11

Feeling Fit

See More On Page 11 See More On Page 06

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Vigilance Organisation finalizes much publicized Lethpora Land Scandal case in record time

LAHDC Kargil Row Met office predicts snowfall from March 15 to 18 Srinagar, Mar 14: As the state weather department Saturday predicted more snow and rainfall from March 15, the state administration claimed that it is ready to face the challenge.

According to a weather department handout fresh Western Disturbances over J&K and adjoining areas is likely to affect the state from 15th March (Saturday) to 18th March 2014 (Tuesday). The weather department has added, “Under the influence of this weather system, moderate to rather heavy rain/snow would occur at many places on 15 and 16 March and at See Met On Page 11..

3 carpenters found dead in Srinagar

Srinagar, Mar 14: Three carpenters including two brother were found dead in a shed of an under construction house at Friends Enclave, Srinagar.

According to a police statement issued to KNS, three carpenters Fayaz Ahmad Najar, Nisaar Ahmad Najar sons of Ghulam Ahmad Najar residents of Watkul, Chadoora and Jamsheed Ahmad Dar son of Mohammad Amber Dar resident of Kultreh, Chadoora were found dead in a shed in an of an under construction house at Friends Enclave, Humhama, near Srinagar Airport.

Budgam police initiated inquest proceedings under section See Carpenter On Page 11..

Inside story Make immediate damage assessment: ANC asks Govt

Jammu, Mar 14 (KNS): “The fresh snowfall, hailstorm has badly affected the horticulture, agriculture in entire state and the government should immediately make damage assessment to compensate the farmers,” this was stated by ANC senior vice President, Muzzafar Shah.

According to a statement issued to KNS, while expressing serious concern over the way Govt handled the situation, Shah said that the height of the cruelty is that still no

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On Edit Page Education-Magic wand to progress and prosperity

The progress and prosperity of any nation can be measured only on one yard-stick, as to how many citizens have excess to quality educational facilities. The off rule, Might is Right, Aristocrats rule the Nations, are now obsolete. The developed countries paid heed to education in the initial stage and now they are harvesting the fruits of those initiatives by way of dictating their terms on developing and under developed countries. The citizens are leading comfortable life with all the basic necessities fulfilled. They don’t have to live under open sky or stand in que for hours together to fetch one bucket of water or ration at concessional rates. Their children

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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

Light Rain/Snow would occur at a few places over the state.

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

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Partly cloudy sky. Maximum &Minimum temperatures will be around 11°C & 2°C respectively.

TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM MINIMUM

SUNSET ON(SATURDAY) SUNRISE ON (SUNDAY)

4.30C 0

-2.0 C 06:47PM 06:36 AM

No confidence motion moved by NC against Congress led council Srinagar, Mar 14: National Conference and its ally Islamia School the opposition party in Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil have moved no confidence motion against Congress led Council allegedly for its failure on developmental front.

Talking to KNS, Kachoo Ahmad Ali Khan, the National Conference councilor in LAHDC Kargil said: “Alhaj Asgar Ali Karbalai the chief executive councilor has failed on almost every front. He has no influence in civil secretariat and had resorted to vengeance against NC affiliated officers and officials.

He would transfer NC affiliated officers and officials to far off places like Leh and Baramulla.”

In September last year the Congress along with its alliance had formed the Government for LAHDC Kargil with its Leader Haji Asgar Ali Karbalai elected as the Chairman/ Chief Executive Councilor of LAHDC Kargil.

Khan said that both NC and its ally Islmaia School were monitoring the performance of Karbalai for the last five months but he has ‘failed’ on every front. “Karbalai failed in providing basic amenities to people of Kar-

gil. People in Kargil are facing acute shortage of essential commodities like ration, kerosene oil, sugar and above all there is no electricity,” he added.

The NC councilor added that National Conference Kargil unit supported the Congress led LAHDC Kargil on the directions of party high command but with the passage of time, it proved a marriage of inconvenience. “The NC was under tremendous pressure from Congress state leadership to make its Kargil unit support Congress led LAHDC Kargil.

......... Lok Sabha Election 2014 .........

Azad, Soz, NC leaders kick start campaign from Sunderbani Jammu, Mar 14 : Congress-National Conference leaders today kick started election campaign by addressing public rallies at Sunderbani, Nowshera and Rajouri today.

According to a statement issued by Congress to KNS, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad, President JKPCC Prof. Saifuddin Soz-MP (former Union Minister) accompanied by Minister for Planning Shri Ajay Sadotra and Provincial President National Conference Shri Davinder Singh Rana-MLC and Shri Madan Lal Sharma Congress candidate for Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha Constituency kick started the campaign from Sunderbani. They addressed largely attended public meetings at Sunderbani, Nowshera and Rajouri today for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in the state.

Addressing largely attended meetings Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad said that country has witnessed tremendous development in all spheres of life under the UPA regime in the past 10 years including in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The negative campaign against the UPA is only to divert the attention of people from the achievements of government in every spheres of life including road network, hospitals, education and other pro-poor schemes which have benefited the cross sections of the

society. He said that the politics of the hatred is a dangerous campaign for the country and urged the people to reject the communal and divisive forces and strengthen the secular and progressive forces in order to strengthen the unity and integrity of the nation and the state.

He said that foundation of this country has been laid on secular ideals which are strength of our nation and we should not allow weakening this at any cost and urged the people to reject such kind of forces who are posing threat to the secular fabric of the nation. He also referred to the numerous achievements of the coalition government in the state by the liberal funding of UPA government and appealed to people to vote in favour of coalition candidates in the state.

Prof. Soz in his address referred to fulfillment of various issues like implementation of 73rdAmendment, Creation of large number of Administrative Units in the state, although there are some genuine demands from certain areas for creation of such units. He said that 73rd Amendment will strengthen the basic democratic Institutions i.e Panchayats in the state.

He referred to the issue of refugees of different categories for which Congress party initiated at the highest level of See Azad On Page 11..

Cricket controversy row

‘Barring couple of Students, University willing to readmit all’ Srinagar, March 14,: National Conference youth leader Junaid Azim Matoo who had gone to Meerut on the instructions of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah after 67 Kashmir students were thrown out from Swami Vivekananda Subharti University for cheering Pakistan team during a cricket match with arch rivals India, Friday said that barring couple of students the University is ready to readmit all the students. He said that he was shown proof that few Kashmiri students were involved in hooliganism but, “we are trying to make it sure that all the 67 students be readmitted in the Universtiy,” Matoo told Srinagar based news gathering agency CNS adding that there is a particular lady who is trying to mislead these students for her personal benefits.

“The University authorities told me that they have no legal complaints against these students. They said that barring couple of students, they are willing to re-admit all the students. I was shown proof, how few Kashmiri

students were involved in hooliganism, but I don’t want to go into that and is trying best that all the 67 Kashmiri students be re-admitted in the University,” he said.

Matoo said at a time when State Government has resolved the issue amicably, a particular lady who runs an NGO is misleading some students for her personal benefits and she had yesterday called five students who later on issued a statement that they are not ready to join the University. “It is very unfortunate and these students must think about their future and should join the University,” he said adding that within a month all the students will hopefully be readmitted in the Varsity.

Pertinently, some of the students have said that they wouldn’t return to the varsity as communal forces are grouping against them.

Junaid Azim Matoo told CNS that Swami Vivekanand Subharti University is eager to put See Cricket On Page 11..

But it ultimately led to a political quagmire where we had no other option but to move a no confidence motion against LAHDC Kargil,” Khan observed.

Earlier in the morning, 11 councilors including eight from NC and three from Islamia School Kargil submitted its no confidence motion before the office of deputy commissioner Kargil who is also the Chief Executive Officer LAHDC Kargil. But the DC was not in his office.

See LAHDC On Page 11..

“NC always does this at election time’ It is NC staged drama: Karbalai Srinagar, Mar 14 : Haji Asgar Ali Karbalai, the Chief Executive Councilor of LAHDC Kargil against whom the NC and its ally Islamia School Kargil moved a non confidence motion today accused National Conference of ‘staging dramas whenever needed especially during election times in the state’.

Talking to KNS, Karbalai said: “It is nothing except drama staged by National Conference high command in connivance with its Kargil party unit. This party has a history of doing such dramas whenever they needed it to be done particularly at the times of elections.”

Karbalai who is an influential member of the socioreligious organisation Imam Khomieni Memorial Trust, Kargil and is also affiliated with Indian National Congress said that NC wants to filed Ghulam Hassan Khan as an independent candidate for upcoming Lok Sabha elections and this is why the party is playing tricks with the Congress.

“Last time also they fielded Khan as a Lok Sabha candidate and when he won, NC lifted him in state chopper to make him join the party but later they came to know about anti defection law and its consequences. This time they want to do it again,” Karbalai alleged. (KNS)

Framed, damned, acquitted; truth alone triumphs.

Srinagar, Mar 14: Bashir Ahmed Malik, a senior Indian Information Service (IIS) Officer, presently posted as Director (News) Doordarshan and All India Radio, Srinagar today got a major relief from the J&K High Court as a case filed against him by one Ghulam Mohammad Parray alias Shabnam Vijpari, was quashed by the Hon’ble High Court.

Malik had filed a Petition seeking quashing of the impugned order passed by Principal Sessions Judge, Srinagar on the complaint of Ghulam Mohammad Parray alias Shabnam Vijpari, former News Reader who had alleged that Malik had alleged threatened him (Vijpari), with dire consequences if he pursued the application filed by him under RTI. Parray had filed a case in the court of CGM who had ordered proceedings. A revision petition was filed in the court of Principal District & Session Judge Srinagar who had dismissed it. Vijpari had

filed several RTIs which were dismissed by the Chief Information Commissioner. Senior Advocate Syed Riyaz Hussain appearing for Mr. Malik pointed before the Hon’ble High Court that the complaint had been filed to counter Malik’s action ousting Vijpari on allegations of sexual misconduct leveled by some female staff members against him. Vijpari was See Framed On Page 11..

Wamiq Farooq Case

Court dismisses police plea Directs police to arrest 2 cops before April 2 Srinagar, March 14: A court here Friday issued fresh non-bailable arrest warrants against two policemen accused of culpable homicide in Wamiq Farooq case and directed Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, to execute the warrants before April 2 next month.

Wamiq Farooq, a class 7th student, was killed after being hit by a police tear-gas shell at Gani Memorial Stadium in old Srinagar in 2010.

Chief Judicial Magistrate Srinagar, V S Bhou, issued the fresh warrants after senior Prosecuting Officer submitted the report on behalf of IGP Kashmir that the accused Assistant Sub Inspector Abdul Khaliq was on leave. The

Prosecuting Officer further submitted that another accused Constable, Muhammad Akram is in Talwada Training Centre.

The Chief Judicial Magistrate termed the report submitted by Prosecution as unsatisfactory and after disagreeing with the contention issued fresh non-bailable warrant against the two cops.

The prosecution in its report further mentioned that the police has already forwarded arrest warrants for the duo to their respective units and soon they will be arrested.

Court directed IGP Kashmir to execute the warrants and arrest See Waqim On Page 11..

Northern Army Commander visits Valley Srinagar, Mar 14: At the backdrop of recent successful conduct of operations during which a large number of militants have been eliminated, Lt Gen Sanjiv Chachra, Northern Army Commander visited the Kashmir Valley. He arrived in Srinagar today.

According to an army statement issued to KNS, the Army Commander was briefed by Lt Gen Gurmit Singh, Chinar Corps Commander on the synergised efforts of the Army and JKP which has resulted in elimination of 21 and apprehension of 13 militants this year. Besides discussion on the overall security situation along LC, Army Commander was also briefed on rescue and relief operations undertaken by the Chinar Corps for the Awam during recent onslaught of snow which caused damages and difficulties in the remote areas of the Valley.

Army commander commended the formation for See ArmyOn Page 11..

One killed, two injured in Bandipora firing Have ordered magisterial probe: DC FIR registered, investigation started: Police Srinagar, Mar 14: One youth was shot dead while two others were injured when they were allegedly pelting stones on a police vehicle at Naidkhai Baramulla. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the matter.

According to the KNS reports, people made special prayers for the ailing separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani and assembled after Friday prayers in Niadkhai area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora. The people later started marching towards IRP camp.

The police had already put in place deployment to prevent any law and order situation.

However, some youth started pelting stone on police which tried to disperse the protesting crowd and fired several teargas shells. Late in the evening, forces reportedly fired

upon the protesters that injured three protesting youth.

The injured were rushed to the district hospital Pattan, where one injured namely Farhat Dar, 17, son of Ghulam Mohammad Dar of Shahgund Sonawari succumbed to injuries in the hospital.

The news spread like a wildfire in the area with people including women in the area took to streets and protested against the killing. The Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Shah Faisal when contacted told KNS that the stone pelting incidents in the area takes place after almost every Friday prayers and that today when the youth were pelting stones on forces, they resorted to firing that resulting into the killing of one person while as three to two others have See Firing On Page 11..

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11

Srinagar, Saturday 15 March 2014

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

LAHDC “We left the copy of the motion at DC’s office and we are scheduled to see him day after tomorrow personally,” said Haji Mohammad Haneefa Jan, Islamia School councilor in LAHDC Kargil told KNS. He said that NC and its ally have now requested the deputy commissioner to call the general council meeting of the LAHDC Kargil so that they can prove their majority.

“Presently we have 16 councilors which included eight Councilors elected on NC mandate, three Independent Councilors backed by Islamia School, Kargil, four nominated Councilors and one independent (Syed Arman) where as two other independent councilor and one from Congress party have said they will extend their support,” informed Haji Mohammad Haneefa Jan, the NC councilor.

Meanwhile, Haji Inayat Ali, president youth wing of Islamia School accused National Conference of sidelining it while finalizing a seat sharing agreement for Lok Sabha polls with coalition partner Congress. “The NC has ditched us. It did not took us on board while agreeing apportioning Ladakh Lok Sabha Parliamentary constituency to Congress. Although, we have always supported its (NC) candidates be it Ghulam Hassan Khan who fought Lok Sabha elections last time, or its members of the legislative assembly from Ladakh. On the crucial juncture when we would have supported their candidate in Lok Sabha elections, the NC took a unilateral decision of handing over Ladakh Lok Sabha seat to Congress. This has compelled us to see other options,” Haji Inayat Ali told KNS on phone.

Meanwhile, the NC councilor Kachoo Ahmad Ali Khan informed that party held a rally at Islamia School Chowk after Friday prayer today which was attended by a large number of people. Islamia School is one of the most powerful religious institutions in Kargil, which influences the electoral politics of the region for the last many decades. Earlier, this School had backed Member Parliament of Ladakh, Ghulam Hassan Khan in 2008 and he later extended his support to National Conference.

The fast changing emerging political situation in Kargil between the two coalition partners Congress and the National Conference is likely to impact the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Sources in LAHDC Kargil said that if the Congress fields its candidate from Kargil, he will surely loose the elections given the internal bickering between Congress and the National Conference in Kargil.(KNS)

Azad the Prime Minister, UPA Chairperson and Union Home Minister for one time settlement and the party is trying its best to solve their issues.

He also referred the demand of Border Migrants, Reservation for Jatts and issue of OBC’s which have been taken up at highest level. He appreciated the efforts of Madan Lal Sharma during past 10 years to nourish and effectively represent the constituency and the state in the Lok Sabha before the centre government. Ajay Sadotra in his address urged the people to strengthen the hands of NC-Congress coalition and urged the people and workers of both the party to work for the success of coalition candidates. He highlighted the achievements Omar led coalition government in the state.

Davinder Singh Rana in his address said that the success of coalition candidates is necessary to defeat the divisive forces and strengthen the bond of unity and integrity of the state. He urged the party workers to launch a co-ordinated campaign for the success of coalition candidates in the state.

Earlier, the visiting leaders welcomed by Vice Chairman Kissan Board & MLA Nowshera Shri R. S. Sharma and Shri Ravinder Sharma-MLC besides prominent Congress-NC leaders, Sarpanchs and Panchs of the area.

Ravinder Sharma in his address said that various demands of Sunderbani and Nowshera have been met including setting up of Degree college and status of Sub-District at Sunderbani, besides creation of various tehsils, niabats and blocks. He said that the upgradation of Sunderbani and Nowshera hospitals have been sanctioned. However, he referred to genuine demand of creation of tehsil status to Devak area of SunderbaniBhawani and Lamberi area of Nowshera needs to be addressed.

He also highlighted the problems of the people of the area Prominent others who attended the meetings included President J&K Mahila Congress Smt. Indu Pawar-MLA; Sham Lal Bhagat-MLC; Thakur Manmohan Singh, Dr. Rashid Choudhary (General Secretaries); Shiv Kumar Sharma-President INTUC; Dr. Ramosh Chander Sharma-Ex Minister; Ashok Sharma-Ex-MLA, Rattan Lal Gupta (NC); Narinder Sharma, Narinder Gupta, Neeraj Gupta (Sacretaries); Pranav Shagotra, Vipan Pal-District President NC; Th. Shamsher SinghPresident BCC Sunderbani; H. L. Bakshi-President BCC Nowshera; Capt. Moti Ram-President Block NC Nowshera; Rajinder Parshad; Prithvi Raj Khokhar; Ch. Manmohan Singh and others. (KNS)

Framed also removed from Radio (News) by Director General (News) on his mischievous and arrogant conduct. After his ouster on the basis of misconduct and misbehaviour with female staff members, the complainant had been exerting pressure on the Director (News) for Casual Bookings which were stopped to him. After hearing both the Counsels, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey, quashed the proceedings against Mr. Malik. This proved that the allegations leveled by Gh. Mohammad Parray alias Vijpari were found to be baseless, concocted and feverous.

It may be mentioned here that Bashir Malik is a famous media personality, a journalist, a writer, a poet and has written several books. He has won several Doordarshan and other literary awards for his outstanding contribution in Radio and Doordarshan Journalism, Production and Literature. Bashir Malik has also contributed a lot for the promotion of Kashmiri literature and has been awarded as the best media personality of 2011 by the State Government for his outstanding contribution.

Army recent operational success and expressed satisfaction over the preparedness and synergy between the security forces. He also complimented Chinar Corps for extending humanitarian assistance to Awam during the recent spell of snow. (KNS)

Cricket this incident behind us and after due process have most of the suspended students back attending their classes barring possibly a couple of students who have been found involved in gross misconduct and indiscipline according to the University rules and regulations. (CNS)

Zabarwan Times

Wamiq both the accused cops before April 2, the day when case will be listed for hearing again.

Earlier, the appellate court had dismissed the revision petition by the accused against the order of Chief Judicial Magistrate Srinagar.

Chief Judicial Magistrate Srinagar earlier had issued nonbailable arrest warrants against ASI Abdul Khaliq Sofi and SPO Muhammad Akram. The court had given the order after observing that in the evidence collected by the Judicial Magistrate in inquiry and the evidence collected by the SIT, such circumstances were spelt out which prima-facie pointed out the culpability of the accused. (CNS)

Firing been injured. He stated further that according to forces, protesters tried to set ablaze the police vehicle due to which they resorted to firing. “I have ordered a magisterial probe into the incident and additional district magistrate will conduct the inquiry into the killing of one person” Police sources told KNS that a joint forces party was passing near Naidkhai area when the protesters hurled stones on nearby bunker and forces vehicle. Sources stated further that the protesters tried to ablaze a nearby bunker and a forces vehicle due to which forces had to fire in retaliation. DIG North Kashmir G.H.Bhat told KNS over phone that the FIR into the incident has been registered and that the investigation has been started by the police. . (KNS)

Met most places on 17 and 18 March.”

“We are fully prepared. We have to face this challenge. District administrations across valley has been directed to remain alert,” said Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Shalindera Kumar adding that rather than being scared of the situation, administration shall have to face it as a challenge with the brave heart.

However, he stated that the people must cooperate with the administration so that better mechanism could be adopted vis-a-vas the post snowfall situations. Commenting over the water logging in various areas of Summer capital- the divisional commissioner said the administration has taken all the necessary measures to tackle the problem and that the common masses must come forward to tell the administration what better can be done. “Yes, people must tell us what measures we should take. On our side we took all the steps to tackle with the problem of water logging.”

The Divisional Commissioner told KNS over phone that the administration will try its best for the smooth supply of water and electricity during the period of predicted snowfall. “But when towers collapse- people have to wait till the same gets rectified.” (KNS)

Carpenter 174 CrPC to ascertain the cause of the death. The trio was putting up in the shed and were working on the construction of the house. Apparent cause of the death is reported to be due to suffocation caused by emission of gases from a fire wood bukhari during the night. After completion of all medico legal formalities the bodies were handed over to the next of the kin for final rites. (KNS)

Vigilance Organisation finalizes much publicized Lethpora Land Scandal case in record time

Srinagar, March 14: National Highway Development Project under provisions of National Highway Act had to undertake New model concession agreement for executing projects on basis of Build Operate Transfer which stipulates 80 per cent of land required for Highway widening is to be acquired by NHAI. It was under this project which is part of NorthSouth corridor programme for improving road connectivity and road condition that Project Director, National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), Project implementation unit Jammu placed an indent for acquisition of land along National Highway from 2 to 4 lanning of NH-1A from KM 256 to KM 280 (Banihal to Srinagar).

The Land Acquisition for National Highway -1A four lanning in village Lethpora and adjacent villages was required to be made under Land Acquisition Act and compensation amount in accordance with the award made in this regard under the Act was to be disbursed among concerned eligible beneficiaries/ land owners.

It was found that during the year 2009 and 2010 the misappropriation of compensation amounting to over twenty crore rupees(20 crore) meant for disbursement among the eligible beneficiaries of four lanning National Highway in village Lethpora and adjacent villages was committed in J&K Bank Branch Lethpora, Pulwama.

According to CNS, the accounts in the name of Collector Land Acquisition National Highway (Additional Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama) were opened in the J&K Bank Branch Lethpora, Pulwama through which

all the fraudulent drawls by resorting to manipulation of records through dubious means with criminal intent to misappropriate the compensation amount of over twenty two crores (22 crores) dishonestly been made.

On receipt of directions from Govt., Vigilance Organisation registered case FIR No 37/2010 u/s 5(1) (c) , 5(1) (d), 5(2) J&K P.C Act, 2006 and 120-B 409, 468 471 RPC in P/S VOK, and took up the investigation on priority.

The officers/officials of Revenue Deptt District Pulwama and J&K Bank Branch Lethpora including Adil Rashid Naqash, then Addl. Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Parvez Ahmad Indrabi, Office Superintendent, Nazir Ahmad Mir, Manager J&K Bank Lethpora, and others by abuse of their official position in conspiracy with non officials namely Showkat Ahmad Dar resident of Zinipora Chadoora, Farooq Jehanzeb of Awantipora misappropriated compensation amount of over Rs twenty two Crore (22 Crore) thereby resulting loss to the state exchequer.

Soon after the registration of the case, the information was shared with Govt.

The Govt. after conducting the formal enquiry dismissed Addl. DC Pulwama from Govt. services who was the prime accused in the instant case.

The investigation of high profile case which is of utmost public importance has been finalized by the Vigilance Organization against 75 officers / officials including Bank employees and private persons in record time and referred it to State Vigilance Commission, before sending it to Govt for accord of sanction for launching prosecution. (CNS)

CEO apprises DG (ECI) about SVEEP, other activities in J&K 3.5 lakh new voters registered in state

Jammu, Mar 14: About 3.5 lakh first time voters are going to exercise their right to franchise in Jammu and Kashmir in the Lok Sabha Elections.

The information was given by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer Mr. Umang Narula to Director General (DG), Election Commission of India (ECI), Mr Akshay Raut during a Video Conference here today.

During the Video Conference the DG ECI was apprised about the activities being carried out under Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) and overall poll preparedness in the State. District Election Officers of all districts of the State also participated in the Video Conference from their respective headquarters. Giving the brief, CEO informed that these new voters were registered during the summary revision of the Electoral roll.

The CEO said that State and district SVEEP committees have been constituted and the SVEEP State Plan has also been rolled out from March 1, 2014.He informed that as many as 253 campus Ambassadors have been appointed in

different Colleges and Universities of the State.

The dissemination of Electoral Literacy Material through Adult Literacy workers is in progress, while Radio jingles on voter turnout are being broadcast ten times a day from Radio Kashmir Jammu , Srinagar and other private radio stations, he said adding that a special programme for registration of left out new eligible voters was also held on March 9.

The CEO also said that awareness pamphlets and other printed material are also being distributed to educate the people about the importance of casting vote. It was also informed that online registration and name search facility for the voters is also being facilitated through the CEO’s website.

The CEO further informed that so far the Awareness Observer has visited Jammu, Udhampur, Reasi and Samba districts as part of the voter awareness activities being taken up at all districts.

He said that the issue regarding SMS reminder on poll day has been taken up with the BSNL and Private Telecom

HCJK election boycott campaign reaches Sopore GoI resorting to ‘divide and rule’ policy in JK Srinagar, Mar 14 (KNS): As part of its election boycott campaign Hurriyat Conference Jammu Kashmir (HCJK) leaders Friday addressed a huge gathering at Bomai, Sopore in north Kashmir.

According to a statement issued to KNS, the leaders led

by Shabir Ahmad Shah said that by involving the people of Kashmir in so-called elections India can never suppress our freedom movement.

“The freedom movement is aimed at creating self-reliance among people by liberating the nation from the clutches of slavery while as the so-called power politics is the game-plan of the elements who exploit the nation for their petty self interests,” Shabir Ahmad Shah while addressing the gathering said. Other Hurriyat leaders who spoke on the occasion included Mushtaq ul Islam, Shabir Ahmad Dar, Muhammad Yusuf Naqash, Wajahat Quereshi and Muhammad Yasin Ataai.

Shah said that living nations do not sacrifice their “freedom” for petty interests. He said we have laid innumerous sacrifices so as to live with honour and dignity at par with other free nations. “So, we call for complete boycott of upcoming parliamentary and assembly polls to honour the precious blood laid by our martyrs like Shaheed Muhammad Maqbool Bhat and Shaheed Muhammad Afzal Guru,” he said.

Warning people against the ill designs of pro-India politicians, Shah said they are applying “divide and rule” policy here by turning people against each other on geographical, linguistic, religious and racial lines but our freedom struggle is aimed at liberating all the sections of Jammu and Kashmir State from the forcible occupation of India.”

Commenting on the state terrorism leashed upon the length and breadth of the valley, Shah said despite the ill treatment of political prisoners in jails, miseries of the parents of disappeared people and frequent arrests of Hurriyat activists, the people of Kashmir are filled with the spirit of freedom.

Shabir Ahmad Shah also expressed satisfaction and gratitude to the Government of Pakistan for its unrelenting political, moral and diplomatic support to Kashmiris.

“It is due to the endeavours of Pakistan that oppression and atrocities inflicted by India on Kashmiri people were highlighted at international level.

Our freedom movement is in dire need of that country’s every support and we hope that Pakistan will continue fulfilling its responsibilities towards Kashmir issue,” Shah said. Shah also urged Hurriyat leaders to play active role in creating awareness among people with regards to antimovement propagandas of pro-India elements. (KNS)

Operators.

The DG(ECI) laid stress on creating mass awareness with special focus on women and young eligible voters. He said that maximum participation of women and newly registered voters would help record high voter turnout in the state.

Later, the CEO also sought the cooperation of functionaries of Education, Social Welfare, Information, Health and Medical Education, Higher Education, State Cultural Academy, Labour& Employment and Youth Sports and Services departments, All India Radio, National Cadets Corps and J&K Bank in spreading awareness about the importance of casting vote among the voters.

The meeting was attended by Secretary, School Education Mr. Hirdesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, Social Welfare Mr. M S Rather, Secretary, J&K Academy Art Culture and Language, Director Information Mr. Tasaduq Jeelani, besides representatives of all other departments.

They assured the CEO about their full cooperation in launching a sustained voter awareness campaign. (KNS)

Make immediate damage assessment: ANC asks Govt

Jammu, Mar 14: “The fresh snowfall, hailstorm has badly affected the horticulture, agriculture in entire state and the government should immediately make damage assessment to compensate the farmers,” this was stated by ANC senior vice President, Muzzafar Shah.

According to a statement issued to KNS, while expressing serious concern over the way Govt handled the situation, Shah said that the height of the cruelty is that still no relief has been given to the affected people in these harsh weather conditions.

“After getting the inputs of the whole situation he asked both the Divisional administrations to extend every possible relief to the snow hit areas of state with special focus on hilly areas in both regions of state by restoring the supplies of essentials and road communication.”

Shah also called for conducting a survey on war footing to assess the losses so that the assistance could be provided to people. He demanded the authorities that steps must be taken to rehabilitate those affected people whose residential houses have got completely or partially damaged besides ensuring repair of damaged power and road network.

“Shopkeepers in the affected areas have lost hope in the government and are waiting for some divine intervention so that the knee-deep water in the street recedes. Besides, electricity at several places has not been restored while the weather condition took a toll on all walks of life, be it health care or education. Due to snow-covered roads, patients, especially from farflung areas, are finding it difficult to reach hospitals.”

Shah has said: “Surgeries being postponed in rural hospitals due to the lack of staff and electricity. Unexpected heavy rain and hailstorms has damaged about 30 per cent of wheat crop in and around Jammu. It deserves mentioning here that the number of deaths caused by the snowstorm that battered the state for nearly 60 hours has risen to 17. Nearly 1,900 houses have been damaged by the snow fury that triggered avalanches. Since last night, the death toll has increased from 11 to 17; eleven people have died in the Kashmir division while six fatalities were reported in the Jammu division.” (KNS)

8 injured in road mishap Srinagar, Mar 14: Eight persons were injured in different road traffic accidents across the valley. According to a statement issued to KNS, a Maruti car bearing registration number Jk01P/3083 rammed in to a tree at Nambal, Awantipora, resulting in injuries to two persons.

Both the injured were shifted to hospital for treatment. Awantipora Police has registered a case in this regard.

Meanwhile, a Maruti car bearing registration JK01G/4236 hit and injured a pedestrian Mohammad Iqbal Shah resi-

dent of Tiker at Tiker, in the jurisdiction of police station Trehgam, Kupwara. The injured was shifted to hospital for treatment. Trehgam Police has registered a case in this regard.

In another accident, four passengers, Rubeena wife of Mohammad Rafiq, Hajra wife of Abdul Rashid Malik, Zoona wife of Shabir Bhat and Mohammad Rafiq Khan son of Majnoon residents of Parray-pora, Kalaroos, Kupwara when a Tata Sumo bearing registration number JK09/3963.

‘Many JKLF leaders arrested in a nocturnal raid’ Keep away from elections which aim at prolonging slavery of Kashmiris: JKLF

Srinagar, Mar 14: “The main aim and objective of elections organized by India and held under Indian constitution is to prolong the slavery of Kashmiris, to legislate new tyrannical and oppressive laws against people of Jammu Kashmir and to subject Kashmiris to torture and repression. Therefore participation in these election on any name and pretext cannot be termed but as enmity with Kashmir,” this has been stated by various leaders and activists of JKLF while speaking to many congregations throughout the south Kashmir today.

According to a statement issued to KNS, prior to these programs, police arrested many JKLF leaders in a nocturnal raid at JKLF office Bohiri Kadal (Shuhada Manzil Maqbool Centre). Among those arrested are JKLF zonal assistant general secretary Sheikh Abdul Gaffer, District president Baramullah Abdul Rashid Magloo, district president Kupwara Mohammad Rafiq War, District president Bandipora Syed Nisar Jeelani and office bearer Ghulam Qadir

Khan.

JKLF Public awareness program to ask people to keep away from Indian elections started from south Kashmir today and Many JKLF leaders and activists addressed people at many places throughout the south Kashmir.

The places visited by JKLF leaders include Jamia KMD Islambad, central Jamia Pulwama, Jamia Khnbal , Jamai Rajpora, Jamia Muran Pulwama ,Jamia Gudroo Pulwama, Central Jamia Kulgam, Jamia Kaimoh Kulgam, Jamia Athoora Shupian, Jamia Newah Pulwama, Jamai Pir Pora Pulwama, Jamia Dooru Shahabad Islamabad, Jamai Watoo Shupian, Jamia Khudwani Kulgam, Jamia Matan Adda Islambad etc. In their addresses JKLF leaders said that elections held under Indian constitution and under the auspicious of India, though are contested under the slogans of prosperity, roads, water, electricity and eradication of other day to day problems etc ,but have always been used to malign, undermine and weaken the freedom struggle of Kashmiris.

“Indian and its puppets in Jammu Kashmir have always tried to befool the international community and attached these elections with the determination of future of people of Jammu Kashmir,” the statement added. It added that JKLF speakers said that these elections, assemblies, and parliaments have given Kashmiris nothing but despair, distress and disaster. These elections gave us black Laws like PSA, AFSPA, TADA, POTA etc. “These produced the oppression of Jagmohan, task force, catch and kill, operation tiger, custodial killings and disappearances, unmarked graves and unnamed graveyards. These gave us the hangings of Saheed Baba I Qoum Mohammad Maqbool Butt and Shaheed Afzal Guru. Speakers said that these elections, assembly and parliament has always work to snatch every symbol of freedom of Kashmiris and the members elected to these assemblies and parliaments are only deputed to safeguard the interests of India and conceal the crimes of its forces and agencies.”

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

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

SATURDAY, MARCH | 15 | 2014

Most of the essential services restores in valley CEO apprises DG (ECI) about SVEEP, other activities in J&K

the Video Conference from their respective headquarters.

Giving the brief, CEO informed that these new voters were registered during the summary revision of the Electoral roll.

been appointed in different Colleges and Universities of the State. The dissemination of Electoral Literacy Material through Adult Literacy workers is in progress, while Radio jingles on voter turnout are being broad-

JAMMU, MARCH 14: About 3.5 lakh first time voters are going to exercise their right to franchise in Jammu and Kashmir in the Lok Sabha Elections.

The information was given by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Electoral Officer Mr. Umang Narula to Director General (DG), Election Commission of India (ECI), Mr Akshay Raut during a Video Conference here today.During the Video Conference the DG ECI was apprised about the activities being carried out LoneEducaNews Agency Kangan Khan cast News Agency The CEO said that State and ten times Ganderbal a day from Radio under Systematic Voters’ districtSoura SVEEP committees Jammu , Srinagar and Gulzar News Agency ZahidKashmir Book Depot Chadoora tion and Electoral Participation have Hawal been constituted and the stations, he Bashirother Newsprivate Agencyradio Nowhatta (SVEEP) and overallTariq pollNews pre-Agency SVEEP State Alamgari Plan has also been saidNews adding that aLal special Muzaffar Ali News Agency Bazar Budshah Agency Chowkproparedness in the State.

District rolled out from March 1, 2014. gramme for registration of left Election Officers of Abdullah all districts News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk He informed that as many Raina as out new eligible voters was also of the State also participated in Agency Gupkari News Lal Chowk News Agency Gund Kangan 253 campus Ambassadors have held on March 9.

Zabarwan Times is available at

Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Magam Dar News Agency Beerwah Reshi News Agency Safapora Basharat News Agency Bandipora JAMMU, MARCH 14: Under the Civic Action ProAltaf News Agency Pulwama gramme (CAP), Mahila Police Battalion (IRP 15th Bn) Jeelani News Agency today organized an impressive function atBaramulla its HeadquarShah News Agency Kupwara ters to distribute the assistance among the destitute and Younis Newsfrom Agency Langate needy, especially those hailing border areas and Reshi News Agency Islamabad living below poverty line.Deputy Inspector General of TurrayMr. News Agency Police (DIG) IRP, Jammu, Vijay SinghTral Sambyal was News Agency Kulgam chief guest on the Rahi occasion.Addressing the gathering, Mr. Sambyal said that and orphans are part of Rahwidows News Agency Byepass

Mahila Police Bn distribute assistance under CAP

our society and they have every right to live a dignified life. He urged various sections of the society to lend a helping hand to the distressed class and help in whatever form to uplift them.Highlighting the importance of such programmes, Mr. Sambyal said that the events prove useful in strengthening the bonds between police and public through our contribution in ensuring the upliftment of weaker sections of the society. This also inspire the jawans towards their social duties, he added. The DIG lauded the role of Mahila Battalion for arranging such a function for providing assistance to the deserving lot. He said the Jammu and Kashmir Police has been providing succour to the people at the times of natural calamities and extending other welfare measures to the down trodden sections .

Rashid News Agency Dalgate Hilal News Agency Budgam Bhat News Agency Chadoora Zargar News Agency Kunzar Bashir News Agency Sumbal Saleem News Agency Pattan Reyaz News Agency Pampore Javaid News Agency Qazigund G.M News Agency Sopore Sultan News Agency Handwara Sheikh News Agency Islamabad Three Way MARCH News Agency Tral KULGAM, 14: Deputy Badru News Agency Bijbehara Commissioner Mr. Jahangir Mir MalikaNews Agency Arwaniand chaired meeting of district sectoral officers here today Shaheen News Agency Kargil in view of forecast of adverse weather from 15th to 18th March by Metrological department. While sensitizing the officers, Deputy Commissioner asked the officers to remain in state of preparedness to meet any eventuality.While reviewing the progress of restoration works, it was informed that almost 90 percent water supply schemes of the district stand restored while as main roads falling in priority 1st stand cleared fully and priority 2nd roads have been

The CEO also said that awareness pamphlets and other printed material are also being distributed to educate the people about the importance of casting vote. It was also informed that online registration and name search facility for the voters is also being facilitated through the CEO’s website.

The CEO further informed that so far the Awareness Observer has visited Jammu, Udhampur, Reasi and Samba districts as part of the voter awareness activities being taken up at all districts. He said that the issue regarding SMS reminder on poll day has been taken up with the BSNL and Private Telecom Operators.

The DG(ECI) laid stress on creating mass awareness with special focus on women and

young eligible voters. He said that maximum participation of women and newly registered voters would help record high voter turnout in the state.

Later, the CEO also sought the cooperation of functionaries of Education, Social Welfare, Information, Health and Medical Education, Higher Education, State Cultural Academy, Labour& Employment and Youth Sports and Services departments, All India Radio, National Cadets Corps and J&K Bank in spreading awareness about the importance of casting vote among the voters.

The meeting was attended by Secretary, School Education Mr. Hirdesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, Social Welfare Mr. M S Rather, Secretary, J&K Academy Art Culture and Language, Director Information Mr. Tasaduq Jeelani, besides representatives of all other departments.

DC Kulgam for coordinated efforts to meet out any eventuality in adverse weather cleared to the extent of 60 percent.

The stock position of essential commodities is satisfactory in the district. However, Assistant Director CA&PD was asked to gear-up to complete the lifting and dispatch of essential commodities within 3 days.Electricity has been restored in all main towns with overall restoration percentage ranging to 45 percent, which may reach to 60 percent by evening.The meeting was informed that 3781 patients were attended during last three days and 49 surgeries conducted.

Only 18 patients needing special care were referred. Chief Medical Officer further informed that

free medicines, diet and blankets were provided to patients who were injured during recent snowfall.The officers of Irrigation and Flood Control were asked to sensitize the field functionaries& come up with a plan to avoid any flood fury which may occur due to rainfall and melting of snow in coming days.While concluding the meeting, Deputy Commissioner directed the officers connected with the regulation of rates of essential commodities to have regular checks in the market to ensure supply of essentials to commuters at fixed rates and no hoarding be allowed.

Review meeting of Nodal officers held by DEO Budgam BUDGAM, MARCH 14: District Election officer Budgam, Mr. Khurshid Ahmed shah held a meeting of eleven concerned nodal officers who deal with various issues related to Lok Sabha Elections to be held shortly.

Various matters like monetary expenditure, media management, material management, transport management, other matters of importance like EVM and ballot paper management etc were discussed threadbare. District Election Officer directed the concerned Nodal Officers to furnish detailed information regarding their concerned areas of function.

Review of employee database which consists of 6,500 employees in the district was also taken. Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mr Qadri discussed a need for conducting workshops on expenditure monitoring on

fast track basis whereas the issue of randomization by which various employees shall be deputed on election duties was also discussed in detail.

Various matters pertaining to Systematic Voter’s Education and electoral Participation (SVEEP) phase2 were discussed which consists of trainings and workshops regarding participation of maximum eligible electors in the electoral process.

Additional District Development Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner Revenue and Development, Informatics and Information officer, Assistant Regional Transport Officer were among others who participated in the meeting and shared their respective progress in the assigned areas of duty.District Election Officer directed Additional Deputy Commissioner to monitor the activities on daily basis.

Deposit licensed arms: DM Pulwama, Shopian, Ganderbal, Kupwara SRINAGAR, MARCH 14: In the wake of ensuring Lok Sabha Elections as also enforcement of Modal Code of Conduct, the gun license holders of districts of Pulwama, Shopian, Ganderbal, Kupwara have been instructed and directed to deposit their weapons in the nearby Police Stations forthwith. In case anybody after a week’s time from issuance of this order is found in possession of licenses arms, action against the defaulter would initiated and the arms would be seized and his license cancelled.

Attention orchardists of Bandipora

BANDIPORA, MARCH 14: Programme Co-ordinator Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Bandipora, Dr. A. H. Hakeem has advised the orchardists of the district to spray their fruit orchards only after the temperature rises to 4 Degree Celsius which has abruptly fallen due to uncongenial weather condition. The orchardists have also been asked to spray these orchards with Diesel fish based oil.

ADDC Budgam tours the district

BUDGAM, MARCH 14: On the instructions of District Development Commissioner Budgam, Additional District Development Commissioner Budgam visited the twin towns of Budgam and Beerwah of the district.

Photo exhibition under SVEEP organized REASI, MARCH 14:- Vice-Chancellor, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine University, Prof Sudhir K Jain on Friday inaugurated election related photo exhibition at University auditorium.

The photo exhibition has been hosted by district administration aimed at two day electoral literacy to generate awareness as well as demonstrating the electoral practices and ethical voting values.

Registrar SMVDU, Ajay Khajuria, ADC Reasi, Rajinder Singh Tara, PO DRDA Dr Jagdish Mehra besides other senior officers were also present on the occasion. Faculty and students of SMVDU actively participated in the photo display on Election Commission’s Electoral literacy Campaign.

Master trainers displayed Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) and live polling booth for awareness besides a movie show was also organized regarding various activities organized under electoral awareness campaign and ethical voting practice.

This was third photo exhibition in the series of electoral photo exhibitions organized under SVEEP campaign Jashn-e-Jamhuriat and displayed material on electoral literacy, ethical and informed voting, photographs from various events organized in the district, voter lists of surrounding polling booths, artistic displays, paintings and drawings.

A series of campaigns organized for electoral awareness and participation like “Green Vote” plantation drive, “Blood for Democracy”- series of blood donation camps, “Jai Kissan, Jai Hindustan”-series of camps for Farmers’ electoral awareness, Women campaign and door to door campaign apart from signature drive and pledge series were reflected in the photo exhibition.Later, Deputy Commissioner Reasi (District Election Officer) appreciated the efforts of PO DRDA Dr Jagdish Mehra and his team for selfless efforts to make this exhibition a big event.

CEO chairs Election Expenditure monitoring meeting Stresses on strict compliance of guidelines

JAMMU, MARCH 14 – To sensitize different stakeholders involved in Election Expenditure Monitoring for the Lok Sabha Election 2014, Chief Electoral Officer, Jammu and Kashmir Umang Narula today chaired a high level meeting of Police authorities, Bankers, Income Tax Department and Excise Department.

IGP, Technical Services PHQ H.K. Lohia, Excise Commissioner Vineeta Gupta, Deputy Director, Investigation, Income Tax Department R.K. Gubgotra, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Rishpal Singh and representa-

tives of different banks attended the meeting.

Deliberating upon mechanism for expenditure monitoring, the CEO said election related expenditure monitoring is a focused area and the Election Commission of India has issued set instructions to be followed for the purpose, adding that strict monitoring of expenditure as per the guidelines of the commission has to be done at all levels.

He said multi agency joint efforts have to be put in to ensure transparent monitoring and strict adherence to the directions of the commission.

Expenditure monitoring teams comprising of a magistrate, police representative and videography team have already started working at different levels all across the state, he added.

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19

Allow your eager and restless nature to express itself in ways other than through the spoken word, Aries. Show someone that you care through your gentle touch or a big bear hug. Hold on a little bit more tightly than you might normally. There’s an unspoken understanding that comes when you communicate through nothing but pure silence. Work on developing this kind of connection with those closest to you.

Taurus April 20-May 20

This is a terrific day for you, Taurus. You should find that your relationships, especially with men, go exceptionally well. Your tender and extremely sensitive nature is finally being recognized as the treasure chest it is. There are many times in which this type of personality is seen as weak, yet today is one of those times in which you’re given the full credit you deserve.

Gemini May 21-June 21

A selfish attitude on your part won’t be tolerated today, regardless of the circumstances, Gemini. Don’t make it worse for yourself by pretending that you don’t notice others’ hurt feelings.

People are likely to be extra sensitive today, so be careful about trying to impose your will on someone who really wants nothing more than an ear to talk to and a shoulder to cry on.

Cancer June 22-July 22

You could find the hardest person to face is you, Cancer. You tend toward introspection, and you may find yourself shrinking into self-recrimination. You could analyze the important people in your life and yet fail to address the one you really need to look at – you. As you continually strive for perfection, give yourself proper credit. Do something nice for yourself today.

Leo

July 23-August 22 Take advantage of the creative energy in the air today, Leo. Keep your hands moving and your imagination flowing toward something fun and artistic. If you begin to doubt your work, you may fall down a spiral of creative blockage. Don’t get into the habit of constantly judging the quality or outcome of your work. Give yourself free rein to open up and explore whatever comes to mind.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Your sixth sense is right on target, Virgo, so trust your instincts today. You’re likely to connect with someone in a wonderful partnership that will help you foster the very plan you want to develop now. Stay close to those things that resonate strongly with your morals. The answer is in front of you; you don’t have to search too far afield in order to find it.

Libra

September 23-October 23 Take a break from your routine, Libra. You might feel like you’re leading an army into battle as you strive for new adventures and conquer new realms. Make sure you take a bit of time out today to stop and let your troops rest. You deserve a little rest yourself. Use this moment of stillness to form your plan of attack so you’re sure about how to proceed.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 The key for you is to minimize your daily drama as much as possible, Scorpio. You may not realize how much you cripple yourself by the way you exaggerate every aspect of your life. Try not to give so much of your attention to things that really don’t matter much. Petty jealousy and gossip about other people’s lives are especially irrelevant in your world.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Be careful of advertising yourself as someone who is so strong and mentally competent that you’re capable of handling everything, Sagittarius. Take note that the strongest mule on the trail usually ends up carrying the most weight. Your emotions are more sensitive than you may think, and certainly more than you demonstrate to others. Be honest about the way you feel and not just the way you think.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Things should flow well for you today with very little effort on your part, Capricorn. Take note that if any quarrel arises, it’s an indication that the person you’re arguing with isn’t necessarily the right person to deal with or confide in. Emotional issues are likely to be the hardest ones to overcome, but this shouldn’t be a problem for you. You have the ability to work through these like a pro.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

This is meant to be a nice, relaxing day, so treat it as such, Aquarius. There’s no need for you to plan any great strategy at this time. Try to take it easy and not indulge in any unnecessary stress.

This is your time to enjoy the moment. Don’t tax your mind by overanalyzing everything that comes your way. Go with the flow and have a great time regardless of what you end up doing.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 Your sensual nature is heightened, Pisces, and you’ll find yourself engaged in tender moments and languid peacefulness in the company of others. Soothe your soul by letting yourself slip into situations that give you the emotional freedom to do or say whatever comes to mind.

Life should be like a love poem written by a great master.

Accept the good energy that comes your way.

EDITORIAL / OPINION EDITORIAL/ / OPINION OPINION EDITORIAL Education-Magic Education-Magic Kejriwal wandman to wand toprogress progress Small big designs prosperity The and resignation of Arvind Kejriand prosperity wal and his forty eight days stint

T T

he progress and prosperity of any

he nation progress prosperity of on any consisting high drama in which can and be measured only nation can be measured only on one he claimed climb the sky one to yard-stick, as tomany how withmany yard-stick, asexposed to how citizens out stairs has the over citizens have excess to quality edhave excess to quality educational facilities. ambitiousness of a middle rung ucational facilities.

The off rule, The off rule, Might is Right, Aristocrats Might is Right, Aristocrats thewanted Nations, former Govt. officer who rule the Nations, are nowrule obsolete.

The deare now obsolete.

The developed countries toveloped erodecountries even the of paidconstitution heed to education paid heed tofulfil education inpolitical the initial stage in the initial stage now they areand harIndia to hisand expannow theythe arefruits harvesting the fruits of by those vesting of those way sionism.

From the initiatives very begininitiatives by way of dictating their terms of dictating their terms on developing on and ning looked crystal clear that developing and under developed countries. underitdeveloped countries.

The citizens Kejriwal much political The are leading comfortable are citizens leadingwithout comfortable life with alllife the knowhow wanted to conquer the with allnecessities the basic necessities fulfilled. basic fulfilled.

They don’tThey have don’t have to live under sky orin stand infor to live under open skyopen orwithout stand que Mount Everest even venhours together fetch oneone bucket of waque for hours to home. fetch bucket of turing outtogether oftohis His day ter or ration at concessional rates.

Their water or ration at concessional rates.

Their dreaming, his unfulfilled promischildren don’t have loseeye eyesight sightwhile while children don’t have totolose esstudying to the people ofTalk Delhi, his misdim lights.

Talk any comfort; studying inin dim lights. ofofany comfort; calculations and aspirations with theyareare bestowed in comparison they bestowed withwith in comparison to theto the people of the third world who have which he tried to befool the people of the third world who have topeoliveto live from hand to mouth, where poverty from hand to mouth, where poverty is their ple suddenly vanished in air.

Hisis their destiny.

It is all because of least priority destiny.

It is to all because least free priority given promise supplyof the water given to education sector that these counto education that to theseevery countries could up tocould 900sector litres home, tries not harness their resources and not harness theirsupply resourceson andhalf compete electricity of with the compete with the developed nations.

They the developed nations. They miss the condimiss the condition in India. tooneed woke rate Jan Lokpal billWe all tion inand India.

We too woke late towere the late to the need of the hour in giving emflues.

Above allemphasis his style of funcof the hour in giving on education. phasis on education.

The words of Former tioning an anarchist the The wordslike ofofFormer President of and IndiaKalam Dr. President India Dr. A.P.J Abdul A.P.J Abdul Kalam keep on echoing when he way he approached to deal with keep on echoing when he one said “comone said “coming generation will not rememdifferent issues was nothing ing generation will not remember youbut as to ber you as to how many temples, mosques immature senseless and direchow many temples, mosques or churches or churches you built, but will remember you built, but will remember you as to how tionless.

Infact he was trying you as to how many school you built”.

His many school you built”.

His golden words to create aspeak kindofof anarchy and golden words his vast experience speak of his vast experience and practical constitutional crisis which could and practicalBut approach.

But despite various approach. despite various schemes and destroy the very basis of the demschemes and initiatives launched

by Central initiatives launched

by Central GovernGovernment, country still blunt lags behind in his the ocratic set-up. lies, ment, country stillHis lags behind in the field field of education.

Due to poverty most of our of education. Due to poverty most of our allegations against everybody children go to government run school to seek children go to government run school including the high dignitaries re-to seek education. tall education.

ExceptExcept KeralaKerala almostalmost in tallinthe portedly without any the states the literacy rate basis isexpectations. belowclearexpecstates the literacy rate is below lytations. show that he be has noforpriority There could various reasons There could be various reasons this. Thefor and targets except to derive maxthis.

The way politics has plagued this secway politics has plagued this sector is beyond tor is beyond one’s imagination and almost imum mileage of killing minimum. one’s imagination andout almost the fukilling future of the country.

The state ture ofper thethe country.

As constitution experts he of Jammu & Kashmir is no exception.

Here The state of Jammu & Kashmir is no excepthinks that he can overrule the the Here people beingareduped with the slotion. theare people beingto duped with constitution according his will gans of freedom, justice, progress and what the slogans of freedom, justice, progress and and whims he thinks himself notnot for thethe lastand so so many years.

But it was edwhat for last many years.

But it was ucation sector which was made sacrificial to be the only honest man in the education sector which was made sacrificial lambatatthe the first instance.

Schools, colleges, county.

His behaviour andcolleges, the atlamb first instance.

Schools, libraries were set ablaze.

Day today calls temptswere he made to Day disrespect libraries set ablaze. today callsthe ofof strike, civilcurfew, curfew,and andcurfew curfew made the life strike, made the life constitution India and also to out ofcivil gear. Theoffuture of the students was out of gear.

The future of the students was erode theWith laidtheprinciples ofoflaw darkened. establishment popdarkened.

With the establishment of popular where simply unbearable as ular government some initiative withno the government some initiative with the financial financial assistance by central government society by in central the world can were tolerate assistance were taken to buildgovernment or repair school taken college such attempts.

As he could not tobuildings build or but repair college theschool situation still buildings is pitiable. fulfil his promises, he wanted but the now situation still is pitiable.

Evenschools nowa Even nearly 5000 government way eject, which he got are through nearly 5000 government schools without are without their own buildings.

School their own buildings.

School buildings are in his Jan Lokpal Bill whose conbuildings are in delipated condition.

May delipated condition.

May schools are withschools are without roof top, without doors troversial introduction in Delhi out roof top, without doors and with broken and with broken window panes.

There Assembly was unconstitutionalis window panes.

There is no properwhat sitting arnoany proper sitting arrangement to talk as into the central list amecan of otherBill civic heating rangement whatamenities talk oflike other civic system be introduced and passed butdrinknot during days of harsh nities likechilly heating system duringwinter, chilly days before the of Even Ministry ing water orpermission toilet facilities. teacher of harsh winter, drinking water or toilet fanot properly There certain ofare Home Affairs is not sort.

Asare he was cilities.

Even teachertrained. are properly trained. schools were without teaching There arein certain schoolsare were students are acting anstudents anchorist and dictastaff but some schools with more teachers without teaching staff but some schools with torial style, he thought he is above but less students duestudents to ineffective transfer more teachers butdoless due to ineflaw and can anything heThe likes. policy and rampant corruption. confective transfer policy and rampant corrupThe Indian democracy is the largcept of Rehbar-e-Taleem may be ideal tion. The concept of Rehbar-e-Taleem mayon paper practically it has failed torootdeliver est in but thepaper world hence deep be ideal on but practically it has failed goods as it is a means for back door entries. ed.

Arvind didfor not avail to deliver goodsKejriwal as it is a means back door What kind of quality education can bebeexthe opportunity he got to prove entries.

What kind of quality education can pected from fromaateacher teacher with nominal honoexpected with nominal honorarhis metal.

He thought by teachers quitting rarium?

Moreover when such are ium?

Moreover when teachers are regulahe will gain the sympathies of the regularised they getsuch themselves transferred rised they of get themselves to towns people buttransferred forgot pressure that heor to towns orIndia cities with political ormoney cities with political pressure or money power power leaving students to their fate. has in the process exposed himleaving students to their fate.when Now time has come Government self time beforecome thewhen masses and and is the in Now and thehaspeople haveGovernment to take education danger oftolosing whatever he had people take education sectorshould seriously. sectorhave seriously.

Government take achieved soadopting far. is veryprivate to Government takeItbold steps byeasy adopting bold stepsshould by public partpublic private partnership for spreading edusit on ‘Dharnas’ andeducation criticize nership for spreading toothevery cation toand every and corner the state to nook of the stateoftoto channelize ers but itcorner isnook not so easy transchannelize the talent andunless intelligence ofgoes t he the talent and intelligence of tone he children late one’s whims children of theand statealso and in also in calculate a of the state calculate a sense through the established system sense of accountability teaching community communiof accountability ininteaching ofwhich norms and isonly honest in the apisis possible only whenthere there good ty which possible when isisgood proach. governance. governance.

Daily Daily Daily

Zabarwan Times

Zabarwan Times Zabarwan Times Srinagar, Saturday 15 March 2014

Srinagar, Tuesday 04 March 2014 Srinagar,Sunday 16 February 2014

Prevention of Drug Addiction Awareness Generation, Research and Rehabilitation

A

T

lcoholism and drug abuse is a pysco-social-medical problem requiring a holistic approach – from prevention and early detection to effective intervention, rehabilitation and social integration. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is the nodal Ministry for drug demand reduction.

It coordinates and monitors all aspects of drug abuse prevention which include assessment of the extent of the problem, preventive action, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts, dissemination of information and public education.

The Ministry provides community-based services for the identification, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts through voluntary organizations. In order to recognize the efforts, and, encourage excellence in the Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drugs) Abuse and rehabilitation of its victims, awards will be presented, every year, for the most effective or outstanding services as individuals as well as institutions in the prevention of abuse of:(a) Alcohol; (b) Narcotic Drugs; (c) Psychotropic Substances; (d) Other Addictive Substances (Except tobacco and its products) e.g. cough syrups, correction fluid,

etc.

The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has been implementing the Scheme of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse since 1985-86.

The Scheme, which was revised twice in 1994 and 1999, at present provides financial support to NGOs and employers mainly for creating Awareness and Preventive Education, Drug Awareness and CounsellingCentres (CCs), Treatment- Cum- Rehabilitation Centres (TC), Workplace Prevention Programme (WPP), De-addiction Camps (ACDC), NGO forum for Drug Abuse Prevention Innovative Interventions etc.

Apart from this, the Ministry takes up awareness generation programme every year disseminating information, education and communication (IEC) materials, organizing programmes in schools and community, holding exhibitions and publishing newsletters and journals.

At present there are about 41 CCs and 401 TCs are functioning with the support of the ministry in the country.

Besides, a large number of NGO’s are involved in this endeavour, Ministry of social Justice and Em-

powerment notified in December last year a scheme of National Awards for Outstanding Services in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse, in order to recognize the efforts and encourage excellence in the field of prevention of substance abuse and rehabilitation of its victims.

The Scheme is applicable to institutions and individuals working in this field. Under the scheme, awards will be presented every year to the most effective or outstanding services rendered as individuals as well as institutions in the prevention of abuse of alcohol; narcotic drugs; psychotropic substances and other addictive substances.

The awards are presented every year, on the 26th June, which has been declared by the United Nations as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking and are given in ten different categories to institutions and individuals.

I. Institutional Category (i) Best Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA) for providing rehabilitation services to alcoholics and drug users (ii) Best Regional Resource and Training Centre (RRTC) provid-

ing exemplary contribution in the field of prevention of addiction. (iii) Best Panchayati Raj or Municipal Body working for prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse. (iv) Best Educational Institution doing outstanding work in awareness generation and prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse. (v) Best Non-Profit Institution, other than Serial Number (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above, with outstanding contribution in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse. (vi) Best Research or Innovation. (vii) Best Awareness Campaign.

II. Individual Category (viii) Outstanding individual achievement by a professional. (ix) Outstanding individual achievement by a non- professional. (x) Former Addict, who has done outstanding work in the field of awareness generation or de-addiction or rehabilitation.

The institution of these National Awards is indeed a manifestation of Government’s commitment to address the issues and take effective steps against alcohol and drug abuse.

Building not just Roads but Nation

ransport system is considered as the life line of any nation. Road Infrastructure, because of its easy accessibility, flexibility in operation, door to door service and reliability occupies a dominant position in the transportation system. It is vital for unleashing economic growth and is a critical component of all inclusive growth. In the last few decades, Road transport in India has registered tremendous growth and has become the most preferred mode of transport. The share of road transport in carrying the passengers and goods is more than 80% and 60% of the total passenger and freight movement respectively.

Road Network India has huge network of roads totalling about 46.90 lakh km. The road density in India at present is nearly 1.43 km per sq. km of area which compares favourably with many countries.

Responsibility of development of this network rests with the Central Government, State Governments and local Government.

National Highways (NH), having total length of 82,803 km, constitutes less than 2% of the total road network. However, these are the main arteries carrying more than 40% of the total road traffic. Development of NHs is the responsibility of the Central Government.

Good and efficient transport infrastructure is an essential pre-requisite for the economic growth of a nation. It has been the endeavor of the Government to provide speedy, safe and efficient road transport network. It is recognized that modernisation of infrastructure is the key to attain higher GDP. India’s Transport sector as a whole contributes about 5.5% to the GDP, with road transport contributing the lion’s share. India has emerged as one of the fastest growing economy in the world. According to experts, India could unleash its full potential, provided, it improves the infrastructure facilities, which are at present not sufficient to meet the growing demand of the economy. To address emerging demand by catching up with the economic and social growth of the country, a massive Road development programme has been

taken up in the country.

NHDP The National Highways Development Project (NHDP) is the flagship programme, for development of less developed areas, dedicated regional programmes like the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for the North-East (SARDP-NE) and the Special Programme for the Left Wing Extremism affected areas have also been taken up.

Now, there are plans for building up Expressways in the Country.

Three projects i.e. Eastern Peripheral Expressway in National Capital Region, Delhi - Meerut Expressway and Mumbai – Vadodra Expressway covering about 650 km are targeted during the current financial year. Planning for Bengaluru – Chennai and Delhi – Jaipur Expressways are also in advance stages. All these Expressways will be fully access controlled roads on green field alignment.

To meet with the massive requirement of funds, innovative means of financing and financing strategies which inter alia include cess on fuel, private sector participation including foreign investment, borrowing from the market as well as budgetary support have been adopted. A major step was to attract foreign as well as domestic investments through Public Private Partnership (PPP). Involving the private sector would lead to increasing efficiency with the help of using modern technology. The private sector has more flexible procurement and decision-making procedures and therefore, it can speed up implementation efforts.

Allowing private sector to raise capital/funds has paved the way for the Government to use its scarce resources efficiently and effectively. Several new materials of road construction are also emerging that would need to be encouraged depending upon their cost effectiveness.

For development of National Highways in the Country in the 12 five year plan targets to invest Rs 1,44,769 crores from budgetary support, Rs 64,834 crores from IEBR and Rs 1,87,995 crores from private sector participation.

Launched in 1998, the NHDP

program represents the largest road construction project ever undertaken to boost the development of the National Highways in the country. The program is aimed at the development of about 50,000 km of National Highways. Golden Quadrilateral which provides four-lane connectivity between four metros, is complete, while the North-SouthEast-West (NSEW) corridor is about to be completed. Four laning and six laning is underway at many places and progressing at brisk pace, despite the hurdles in land acquisition, obtaining environment and forest clearances, high cost debt etc,. So far work on more than 21,000 km have been completed and in about 12,350 km works are in progress. Other flagship regional programmes which includes SARDP-NE and roads in LWE affected areas covers development of about 12,000 km of roads out of which work has already been completed in about 3800 kms.

Mode of Projects The emphasis has been to take up progressively more and more infrastructure projects through private sector participation on BOT (Toll) basis so that more public funds are available for social sectors such as Health, Education, etc. However, it would not be practically possible to take up development of the majority of the highway stretches on BOT (Toll) mode. This has reflected in the recent trends of bidding when in majority of roads projects we could not get the favourable response. Accordingly, recently, Ministry has decided to take up road projects as turnkey Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) contracts basis which would help to reduce construction time and is expected to improve quality of work as well.

Also, in this system the objective to garner private sector efficiency is retained and the private entrepreneurs are free to use new technology to speed up their works New Initiatives E-Tolling The experience on present tolling system is associated with congestion and delays at toll plazas. To overcome this, Government has decided adoption of Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system across Na-

tional Highways in India, which would enable toll to be collected electronically from vehicles at toll plazas while the vehicle is in motion. Pilot projects have already been taken up in this regard which will pave way for nation-wide interoperable ETC at all the toll plazas on National Highways by 2014.

New Materials Besides financing, such a mammoth development programme requires huge amount of natural resources. As such conservation of the material is area of concern for all. There is a need to save scarce physical resource like aggregates, sand, earth, cement, bitumen, etc. looking to huge programme of construction of highways in the country. On the other hand, the Nation is facing problem of the disposal & storage of industrial waste like fly-ash, copper slag, marble slurry, etc. Efforts are on in utilizing these waste materials in construction of roads through complete/partial replacement of conventional materials.

Cashless Treatment of accident Victims (A Road Safety initiative) India has the dubious distinction of having maximum number of fatalities on roads. During the year 2011, there were around 5 lakh road accidents resulting in the deaths of over 1.42 lakh people. Each day, nearly 390 people die on our roads. In India more than half of road accident victims are in the age group 20-65 years. The loss of the main bread earner and head of household due to death or disability can be catastrophic, leading to lower living standards and poverty, in addition to the human cost of bereavement.

This is an unacceptable price to pay for mobility. The Ministry has already taken up multi-pronged strategy in his regard. The latest milestone in this area is a Pilot Project for “implementation of cashless medical treatment to the accident victims” for the first 48 hours. Under this scheme accident victims will be provided free treatment during this period as a result immediate relief can be provided to the accident victim, which will go a long way in reducing fatalities on our road.

Completion of programmes already taken up is expected to go a long way in contributing towards building the Nation.

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