Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 18 July

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July 18 | 2013 | 08 ramzan 1434 Ah | PAGES 12 |

2 held with grenades, 2 hideouts busted Srinagar, July 17: Two persons, carrying hand grenades, were arrested in north Kashmir Kupwara district on Wednesday. Besides, major arms haul were made from two separate militant hideouts in the valley.

According to Srinagar-based police spokesman of the zonal headquarters, two persons, who were roaming suspiciously near Kupwara’s Sumo Stand, 100 km north of Srinagar, were arrested.

“Two hand grenades were recovered from their possession,” said the police official.

The police identified the duo as Abdul Rouf Badder and Zafar Iqbal Badder.

“Some suspicious powder was also recovered,” he said.An FIR under Section 7/25 A. Act, 8/20 NDPS Act was registered against the duo.

In a separate incident, Arms and ammunition were recovered during a search operation of the security forces in Pakherpora area in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district.

“One AK 47 rifle, ten rounds of AK ammunition, six hand grenades and five UBGL grenades were recovered,” said the police.

In south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, a huge quantity of explosive material was recovered from Larmoo Tral, Awantipora.

“The Anantnag police along with CRPF’s 40 and 90 Battalion busted the hideout. The recovery included 75 kgs of Neo Gel 901, eight detonator plates, 500 gms of RDX powder, three bottles of potassium permanganate, one bottle aluminum fine powder and 16 fuse conductors,” said the spokesman.

Skilled hunters to eliminate ferocious animals Srinagar, July 17: Forest Minister Mian Altaf Wednesday said that Wild Life Department has hired skilled hunters to hunt down the ferocious wild animals. “No one can control wild animals and I appeal people to protect themselves from these ferocious animals,” Mian Altaf said adding that every time Wild Life Department (WLD) can’t be present at the time of incident.

He said that people should not every time rely on the Government. “People are expecting that WLD should always be present on spot and eliminate ferocious animal which is not possible. Whenever we get information in the nick of time, we act and eliminate such maneaters,” he said.

Mian Altaf said people should understand wild animals could not be controlled and there is a need to take protective measures to save themselves from these wild animals. “We have hired skilled hunters and all those man-eaters would be eliminated who would emerge in residential areas and attack people,” he said.

ATM guard turns burglar Srinagar, July 17: Police Wednesday arrested a person for stealing Rs 25 Lakhs from an ATM. The accused according to police sources was himself guarding the ATM of the State Bank of India.

Police sources said that few months ago State Bank of India had deputed Ishafaq Ahmed Shah son of Late Abdul Gani resident of Ahangam Beerwa Budgam as a guard for their ATM Branch located at Durga Nag Dalgate.

A few days ago Rs 25 Lakhs were found missing from the ATM and it was believed that burglars during the dead of the night might have looted the cash.

Ram Munshi Bagh police after getting inputs raided the house of the accused and recovered Rs 22 Lakhs from his possession.

The accused during questioning admitted that he stole cash See ATM Guard on Pg. 11

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Top HM militant killed in grenade attack

Attack on jail inmates: SC asks JK to reveal measures taken New Delhi, July 17:

Srinagar, July 17:

Close aide and body guard of United Jihad Council (UJC) Syed Salahudin was killed in Batamaloo area of Srinagar on Wednesday when unidentified persons lobbed a grenade on the police vehicle in which he was present during the time of incident. Police sources said that Hizbul Mujhadeen militant Shakeel Ahmed Kasana was being taken to Sub jail Baramulla.

Inspector General of Police Kashmir Division Abdul Gani Mir said that militants hurled a grenade over police vehicle in Batamaloo in which under trial HM militant, one civilian and four police constables were injured. The under trial militant later on succumbed to his injuries at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Soura.

“Shakeel Ahmed Kasana son of Abdul Rahim Kasana resident of Kral Khayan, Kangan was the former body guard of Syed Sala-

hudin who had been arrested by police after returning from Pakistan administered Kash-

mir,” Mir said adding that the police vehicle was on its way to Baramulla.

China to expedite PoK hydropower project The Chinese firm building the Rs 274.88-billion Neelum-Jhelum hydropower plant in Pakistanoccupied Kashmir, plans to deploy more personnel to expedite completion of the project.

The Chinese company building the NeelumJhelum mega hydropower plant has decided to deploy more engineers and technical staff to expedite work on the 969 MW project, Pakistan's state-run APP news agency reported.

Acute water shortage hits Batamaloo areas Srinagar, July 17: Residents of Batamaloo area have complained of shortage of drinking water in the locality. Particularly the residents of Shaikh Dawood Coloney, Gulab Bagh and adjacent areas complained that they are facing acute shortage of drinking water even in this holy month of Ramazan. They said that the See Water Shortage on Pg. 11

India has been expressing concern over China taking up infrastructure projects in PoK, considering its disputed status.

Officials of the China Gezhouba Group of Companies (CGGC), the project contractor, held talks in Beijing with a Pakistani team and briefed them about deployment of additional Chinese technical staff, the report said adding that the induction of additional work force will help completion of the project before the given timetable.

The meeting was held as

IGP denied that it was an attempt on part of militants to See Grenade on Pg. 11

Incidents of attack on foreign prisoners have "international ramifications", Supreme Court today said asking the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir government to apprise it of steps to ensure that assaults similar to the one on Pakistani inmate Sanaullah Ranjay do not recur.

A bench of justices R M Lodha and S J Mukhopadhya also voiced displeasure over the pace of progress in investigation into the death of Ranjay at Kot Balwal Jail in Jammu.

"Such incidents have international ramifications. The Government has to tell us that about the certain steps that have been taken and are being contemplated to ensure that such incidents do not recur in future," the court said and asked the Centre and the state government to file affidavits.

"Look, such incidents have happened in Pakistan and

in India. In so far as Pakistan is concerned, we have no control and so far as India is concerned, we have got the control. You must tell us about the steps taken to ensure that such incidents do not happen again," it said.

The court, after perusing the affidavit filed by Jammu and Kashmir government, expressed unhappiness there was "not a single word" about investigation into Ranjay's death though 72 days had passed since the incident.

"You must have held some preliminary inquiry. What are the findings. This (affidavit) is nothing as it does not give as to what had happened? How it happened?

It does not even say the date on which the FIR was lodged.

"More than 72 days have passed and the investigation has not completed. The incident occurred inside the four corners of your jail.

See SC on Pg. 11

CM Chairs DDB Meeting

Concern for India

Beijing, July 17:

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a follow-up to the recent visit of Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif here during which the progress of the project construction was reviewed.

The company had informed Sharif that the project was expected to be completed by June 2016.

However, in view of its acute energy crisis, Pakistan wants the mega hydropower project to be completed before the given time frame.

Before embarking on See China on Pg. 11

Annual Plan of Rs. 98.47 Cr for Srinagar approved Srinagar, July 17: Responding to the serious concern shown by the Members of Srinagar District Development Board regarding comparably smaller Plan allocations for Srinagar District, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah announced Rs. 35 crore under Special Area Development Programme (SADP) for the District besides giving nod to Rs. 63.47 crore Annual Plan 2013-14 making the total funds of Rs. 98.47 crore available to the District for the current financial year.

Chairing Srinagar District Development Board meeting of which he is also the Chairman, the Chief Min-

ister said that he has asked the Planning Department to revisit the system of allocating funds under District Plans and take corrective

J&K Police: This telephone number is out of service Srinagar, July 17: Barring few, most of the land line numbers of police stations and posts in Srinagar city are out of order due to which people are facing lot of inconvenience.

From past several months the land line numbers of Police Stations Karan Nagar, Nigeen, Bagiyass, Harwan, Khanyar, Maisuma, Lal Bazar, Kothi Bagh, Ram Munshi Bagh and others

are dead due to which people living in the jurisdiction of these police stations and posts have to face lot of problems.

“The crime rate is very high in Srinagar city and on daily basis the burglars break into the houses. How could people inform and seek their help in times of emergency. It is really disgusting that police which is meant for the protection of people are maintaining a distance

with the general public,” one of residents of Nigeen area said.

“Every time you dial the land line number of police stations like Karan Nagar, Khanyar or Nigeen, the only thing you would hear is that ‘this telephone number is temporarily out of service,” a trader said.

There are some police stations which never bother to pick up the call.

The landline number of MR Gunj and Nishat

remains busy round the clock. The landline number of Pantha Chowk Police Station is out of service too. Only few police stations in Srinagar City are those where people could callfreely and these include Shaheed Gunj, Saddar, Batamaloo and Parimpora.

When contacted a top police officer on condition of anonymity said that it is the duty of the in charges of the See Telephone on Pg. 11

measures to remove the distort if observed in the allocation of funds to Srinagar District. The Chief Minister said that various com-

mittees in Planning and Development Department are already on the job and recommendations made by See Annual Plan on Pg. 11

Extortion gang busted in Anantnag Srinagar, July 17: Anantnag police busted a extortionist gang in Dooru area that were planning to orchestrate subversion on the National Highway.

According to a police handout, a reported movement of unknown individuals along with AK 47 rifles was being noticed in Dooru area. A manhunt was launched to apprehend such individuals. On a specific information, Anantnag Police assisted by 40 Bn. CRPF, 9 RR and officials of Police

Station Dooru intercepted a vehicle and nabbed one person Mohammad Hussain Wani son of Mohammad Yousuf Wani resident of Khushipora Dialgam.

During questioning he admitted of possessing 02 AK 47 rifles along with his associates for the purpose of extortion initially and later also subsequently carried out some militant acts.

On his disclosures Anantnag police arrested his associates, Mohammad Rafiq Wani resident of Nathipora See Gang on Pg. 11

Of pseudo intellectuals, self-styled human rights champions and lobbyists Shahana Srinagar, July 17: Though it dates back to 1947, but the invasion of Pseudo intellectuals, self-styled champions of human rights and a brand of opportunists in the garb of journalists increased with every passing day for shedding crocodile tears and putting salt to the injuries of Kashmiris.

When militancy was at its peak, these people in herds started visiting valley to enjoy the hospitality of both, govt. and separatists, and after their sojourn they jotted down their reports which further complicated the already vexed situation of J&K. Some of them addressed media conferences, issued statements, not with the purpose of helping the cause of Kashmiris, but for self-projection

and publicity, so that they could become a permanent feature on media channels and can make it to international conferences held on Kashmir in different parts of the world which otherwise they could never afford to on their own expenses.

As Kashmir is selling still like hot cakes even today, these opportunists true to proverb- make hay while the sun shines, come for a visit, advance their own philosophy, demand plebiscite, and become heroes overnight.

Though they have no say, their out bursts hardly matter still they please their sponsors by uttering statements representing their view point.

In early nineties, their headquarter in valley was a local hotel on Residency Road and

their source of information and liaison persons were the waiters of this hotel who facilitated their meetings with separatists. On one side, they used to meet the anti-India lobby and on the other side they would not lose a second to avail the hospitality of security forces. It is because of that, the militant leaders, calling them by the name of ‘Didi’ (elder sister) , ‘Bahan’ ( sister), Bade Bhai Sahib( elder Brother), ‘Toth’ ( dearest), later after knowing their intentions banned them and declared them anti-movement. It was surprising and shocking that these people would be present in Kashmir even before any big incident would take place. This was because they were being informed by the same militant groups in advance who

used to be involved in such incidents of violence for the purpose of wide publicity.

This is a matter of concern that these opportunities are still pouring in and the state govt. is being very lenient to them, ignoring the fact that they are inciting trouble, playing with the emotions of the people and disturbing peace which somehow is fast returning to once called valley of ghosts. The govt. of India should also take a serious note of these pseudo human rights activists who in no way have any sympathy with the Kashmiri people and whose only interest is in cashing and exploiting the situation. There should be a blanket ban on their arrival and if they indulge in any activity pre-judicial to the interests of the state and if they

cause any dent to the peaceprocess, they should be dealt with sternly and treated as the enemies of the people.

It is after several years of uncertainty that Kashmir is witnessing a faster process of socio-economic development.

This state which has very limited resources can ill-afford to have disturbances every now and then. The Kashmir problem is a political issue and can be addressed politically by all the stake-holders in an amicable way. These people who have no locus-standi, no representative character and are not even residents of state can contribute nothing but confuse the process of negotiation efforts. There is no doubt that recovery of mass-graves, Kunan-Poshpora incidents and Chatti-Singhpora followed by Pathribal like hap-

penings raise many eye-brows and deserve a through probe which even the state govt. has sought, but how can these opportunists (Barsati Mandak) help the cause except coming, enjoying and making to the front-pages of local papers and then vanishing and waiting for another sponsorship to visit the state again. However, they and their sponsors forget the fact that now Kashmiris having realized their motives will not be swayed away by their sensational, emotional out-bursts. Kashmirs are politically so mature that they analyse every statement in its real perspective, keep an eye on the happenings around the world, and decide their course of action based on their own assessment and not on the free advice of these lobbyists, touts and fixers.

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free Shakeel Ahmed Kasana from the custody of police.

“How could militants do this when the under trial was in the custody of police. I don’t think that is the case,” he said.

Eyewitness said that panic gripped crowded Batamaloo area of Srinagar a grenade exploded with a bang. People ran for their lives and immediately after the explosion police and Para-military troopers cordoned off the area and security was beefed up everywhere.

One civilian who was injured in the attack has been identified as Ghulam Nabi Malik son of Mohammad Subhan Malik resident of Soibugh, Budgam while the four injured constables according to police sources were identified as Sajad Ahmed, Sabzar Ahmed, Sajjad Ahmed and Bashir Ahmed. All the injured constables pertain to police station Panta Chowk.

A police hand out said that a hand grenade was hurled at a police vehicle by militants which was passing through Batamaloo on Wednesda.

“The police vehicle was on way to Baramulla Sub-Jail to lodge a detenue Shakeel Ahmad Kasana son of Abdul Rahim Kasana resident of Kral Khayan, Kangan. Four constables and a civilian Ghulam Nabi Malik son of Mohammad Subhan Malik resident of Soibugh, Budgam got injured, while Shakeel Ahmad Kasana got critically injured. He was referred to SKIMS, Soura, Srinagar for treatment, where he breathed his last. A case has been registered and investigation taken up,” police said.

Meanwhile sources have said that the body guard of United Jihad Council Chief who died in Batamaloo attack was a trained militant who had crossed the Line of Control some 13 years ago. Police sources said that Kasana during his presence in Pak administered Kashmir acted as the close aide and body guard of UJC Chief Syed Salahudin.

A top police official said that Kasana returned to this part of Kashmir in 2003 and he was having close affiliation with dreaded Hizb militants like Mushtaq Killer aka Jangi and Ghulam Nabi War. “He was the right hand of HM militant Mushtaq Killer who was gunned down by 5 RR personnel and SOG in a joint operation at Gutli Bagh Ganderbal while his another close associate Ghulam Nabi War was killed in an encounter with 24 RR at Hayen Palapora area of Kangan,” he said.

Shakil Ahmed Kasana, a bachelor, was arrested by Pantha Chowk police in December 2012 vide FIR number 113/2012, 7/25 Arms Act. “He was a dreaded militant who was wanted to police in different arson, murder and blast cases,” a police official said.

SC.........

There is not a word about the investigation. The state must be co-operative and forthright. It is not a complex case. The approach of state is always obstructive," it said. The court asked the state government to apprise it of actions taken against jail officials in the case. It, however, said that certain steps have been taken, but the better enforcement was needed to stop such incidents. It was hearing a plea filed by Jammu and Kashmir Panthers Party Chief Bhim Singh seeking repatriation of foreign and Pakistani prisoners, including Ranjay, and those who have already spent over 15 years in detention in India. Ranjay, however, died on May 9 here after being attacked inside the Jammu jail.

China..........

his visit to China, Sharif had visited the site of the project and directed the authorities concerned to expedite construction work and make it functional by 2014-15 to overcome Pakistan's crippling power shortage. Timely completion of the project would reduce the gap between demand and supply of power in Pakistan. Moreover, it has strategic importance as with its early completion the government of Pakistan can claim water rights of river Neelum, the report said. The project which is in the vicinity of PoK's capital Muzaffarabad envisages the diversion of Neelum river water through a tunnel and after producing power, water will flow into the Jhelum river.

Annual Plan...........

the State Finance Commission headed by Mahamood-urRehman are being taken into account to ensure equitable distribution of funds to all Districts.

The Chief Minister said that it is also a fact that District Srinagar is not receiving funds under NABARD, MGNREGA and other Centrally sponsored schemes in various sectors for being highly urban in its characteristic.

However, he said that the distort in allocation of funds has to be examined and removed once for all so that District does not rely on additionalities and special grants which sometimes are not available at the end of the year and mar development process in the District.

While appreciating the District Administration for achieving more than 99 percent targets of spending under the last year’s Annual Plan, Omar Abdullah said that it should be eye-opener for those who carry the false propaganda against the status of spending in the State. It may be mentioned here that all the Districts of the State have achieved more than 90 percent expenditure on plan allocations during the last year.

The Chief Minister said that the situation would have been better had the Government of India released about Rs. 1300 crores out of the sanctioned Rs. 7300 crores approved Annual Plan for the State for the year 2012-13. Due to financial constraints Government of India was not in a position to release the plan allocations in full last year despite sanctioning full funded budget. However, the Planning Commission of India has maintained Rs. 7300 crores Annual Plan for the State for the current financial year.

The Chief Minister directed the District Administration to utilize Rs. 35 crores made available to the District under Special Area Development Programme on completion of ongoing schemes. He said such projects should not be taken in hand which require huge amounts and get hampered for want of flow of finances. He said that timely completion of the schemes should be made benchmark in realizing physical targets. “Spending should be judicious, transparent and as per the availability”, he said asking for focusing on outcomes instead of outputs.

Gang.........

Dooru, Imtiyaz Ahmad Banday resident of Arabal Dooru, and Bashir Ahmad Wani resident of Damhal Khushipora.

Two AK 47 riffles, two magazines and 43 rounds were later recovered from the agricultural fields of Bashir Ahmad Wani.

A case, vide FIR number. 56/2013 under section 7/25 A. Act, 457,506 RPC 120B was registered in police station Dooru. During further investigation it was revealed that Mohammad Rafiq Wani, and Imtiyaz Ahmad Banday were planning to execute a firing incident on National Highway between Qazigund and Mirbazar.

This whole module was being organized and handled by one Nawaz Ahmad Ahanger resident of Achabal who was a close associate of LeT Commander Ashraf Molvi of Rampora and Moosa aka Qari Banihal. Nawaz Ahmad Ahanger along with one associate Mohammad Younis Bhat son of Mohammad Yousuf Bhat resident of Hardpora Achabal Anantnag arranged the weapon in 2010 to deliver it to Moosa but later, upon the killing of Ashraf Sheikh aka Molvi they could not execute their plans.

Reasi, July 17: Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand today stressed the need for strict implementation of all decisions taken in the annual District Development Board (DDB) meetings saying it was imperative for need based and effective development of the respective areas. Deputy Chief Minister said this while chairing the Reasi District Development Board meeting, whereat he approved Rs 77.43 crore annual plan for the district.

It was informed in the meeting that Reasi district has recorded 98.78% expenditure against the annual plan allocation for the year 2012-13 till March end.

The plan outlay approved included capital outlay of Rs 53.62 crore and Rs 28.80 crore as revenue component.

Minister of state for Revenue, Relief & Rehabilitation, Aijaz Ahmed Khan, Member Parliament (MP) Ch Lal Singh, MLAs Abdul Gani Malik, Baldev Raj Sharma, MLCs Jugal Kishore and Sham Lal Bhagat,

besides heads of various departments ground. were present in the meeting.

Earlier, Giving brief account of Reviewing sector wise physical & financial and physical achievements financial achievements, the Deputy of projects being executed under Chief Minister sought details about various state & centrally sponsored status of implementation of decisions schemes in the district, District taken at the last board meeting. He Development Commissioner, Dr. asked the district administration to Shahid Iqbal Choudhary said that out implement the DDB decisions in of total approved outlay of Rs 75.26 letter and spirit as the same are related crore, the district recorded an to the core public issues and their expenditure of Rs 65.86 crore during immediate needs. previous year.

Exhorting for concerted efforts to The DDC Reasi further informed that meet the set targets with optimum about Rs 26.27 crore were spend on utilization of funds under each sector, education sector with the opening of Tara Chand called upon the officers 17 primary schools, up-gradation of to pay special attention towards 18 primary schools to Middle under developed and backward Standard under SSA, besides upareas. He said development and gradation of 13 Middle schools to provision of better amenities in bad high school level under RAMSA. pockets was the priority of the An amount of Rs 48.42 crore was present government. He asked the spend under MGNREGA out of total officers to put sincere efforts while outlay of Rs 48.43 crore, while 7043 framing new projects pertaining to works were taken up out of which 483 their departments so as to these can were completed generating Rs 22.01 produce desires results on the lakh mandays,

3rd LAHDC Kargil General Election on August 22 Srinagar, July 17: The 2013, and last date for the election Notification for same is August 3 and the the 3rd Annual General date of scrutiny is August E l e c t i o n o f L a d a k h 4.

A u t o n o m o u s H i l l A candidate can withdraw Development Council his nomination up to (LAHDC) Kargil has been August 6, 2013. issued and the Code of Fida Hussain said that the C o n d u c t h a s b e e n whole process will i m p l e m e n t e d f r o m complete by September 2, Tuesday, July 16, 2013.

2013 with the formation of According to Deputy the New LAHDC Kargil.

Commissioner Kargil Fida He further added that all Hussain, the elections will the process for conducting be held on August 22, 2013 the election fairly has been from 8 am to 4.30pm. completed and voter list is The date for filing ready for the upcoming nomination is July 27 election.

JAKEDA developing 6 Mini Hydel Power Projects in J&K Srinagar, July 17: The Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) is developing 6 Mini Hydel Power Projects of 9.90 MW capacity in the Jammu and Kashmir State through IPP mode under phase-II. This was stated by the Minister of State for Science and Technology Mr. Feroz Ahmad Khan here today. The Minister said that the process has been started through competitive bidding adding that the required

letters have been issued to the respective bidders by the authorities of JAKEDA.The Minister said that the JAKEDA has earlier allotted 6 projects to the IPP’s having 9.95 MW Cumulative capacities under Phase I. The endeavour of the allotment of more projects shall continue in future also, in a phased manner by JAKEDA to play a positive role as state Renewable Nodal Agency for harnessing the power potential in the state.

Office of the Regional Transport Office Kashmir NOTICE

Whereas a joint application has been received from Shri Mohammad Rafiq Batloo S/o Abdul Rehman R/o Anzimar Khanyar Sgr. (as Transferor) and Shri. Mehraj-ud-din Bhat S/o Abdul Gani R/o Rathpora Sgr. (as Transferee) for transfer of Auto (P) Carriage route permit No. 5862-STAR Covering vehicle No. JK01C-2714.

Now, Therefore, it is notified for general information that objections, if any to the proposed transfer of the said route permit/vehicle shall be filed in writing in the office of the Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir within a period of seven days from the date of publication of this notice. Seller and Purchaser identified by the authorised representative of M/s New JK Road ways namely Mr. Mohammad Yaseen.

No: JK RTOK 3630 Sd/- Regional Transport Officer Dated: 17-07-2013 Kashmir

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Grenade.........

Omar Abdullah said that two major Water Supply schemes of Tangnar involving Rs. 148 crores and Sukhnag costing Rs. 121 crore are expected to be completed this year. He said the commissioning of these schemes would augment the drinking water supply in the District to a greater extent.

The Chief Minister directed for carrying out macadamization and black topping of roads aggressively keeping in view the shortest span of working season available for this purpose. He also asked the District Administration to finalize proposals in consultation with legislators and public representatives regarding creation of new schools and health centres in the areas where there is urgent need for such basic amenities.

Omar Abdullah said that the State Government is expecting some Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1200 crores under JNNURM this year which would help to give fillip to providing better civic facilities to the people in the twin cities of Srinagar and Jammu.

The Chief Minister also asked the District Administration to examine construction of Convention Centres in Srinagar city at feasible places so that these are utilized for social purposes. He also directed for examining the possibilities of utilizing Hajj House for social purposes adding that the huge infrastructure remains unutilized for about ten months. “The District Administration should look into this aspect and ascertain how it could be utilized during the lean period”, he said.

Speaking in the meeting, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Dr. Farooq Abdullah underlined the need for utilizing the solar energy in government institutions like Hospitals, Schools, Colleges, etc and in the households for water heating purpose. He said solar energy is being utilized throughout the Country for various purposes and Government of Jammu and Kashmir should also come forward in a big way in this direction.

“My Ministry will provide you all necessary support in this regard”, he said and asked the administration to prepare proposals and projects to harness new and renewable energy resources. He said, he alongwith Central team will be visiting the State after the month of fast to discuss various schemes relating to utilization of new and renewable energy resources. “You should prepare plans and projects to take best advantage of Union Government’s support in this regard”, he emphasized.

In a PowerPoint presentation District Development Commissioner, Farooq Ahmad Shah presented details of the achievements registered in various sectors in the District during the last financial year. He also presented resume of the current year’s proposals and plans of development and projected demands put forth by various Members of the Board.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Rural Development, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Vice Chairmen of various Advisory Boards, Legislators, Chief Secretary, Principal Secretaries, Commissioner Secretaries, Administrative Secretaries, Heads of the Departments, senior officers and District officers of the Srinagar District.

ZABARWAN TIMES Strict implementation of DDB decisions vital for effective development: Tara Chand

Office of the Regional Transport Office Kashmir NOTICE

Whereas a joint application has been received from Shri Farooq Ahmad Kawa S/o Ghulam Mohammad R/o Habba Kadal Sgr. (as Transferor) and Shri. Mohammad Shafi Wani S/o Ghulam Mohammad Wani R/o Shivpora Sgr. (as Transferee) for transfer of Auto (P) Carriage route permit No. 5231-STAR Covering vehicle No. JK01C-1159. Now, Therefore, it is notified for general information that objections, if any to the proposed transfer of the said route permit/vehicle shall be filed in writing in the office of the Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir within a period of seven days from the date of publication of this notice. Seller and Purchaser identified by the authorised representative of M/s New JK Roadways namely Mr. Mohammad Yaseen.

No: JK RTOK 3629 Sd/- Regional Transport Officer Dated: 17-07-2013 Kashmir

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11 From Front Page........

Daily

Thursday, 18 July 2013

Office of the Regional Transport Office Kashmir NOTICE

Whereas a joint application has been received from Shri Abid Afzal Ganie S/o Mohammad Afzal Ganie R/o Rampora Chattabal Sgr. (as Transferor) and Shri. Assadullah Sheikh S/o Abdul Ahad Sheikh R/o Iqbal Colony Sgr. (as Transferee) for transfer of Innova Carriage route permit No. 5327-MC Covering vehicle No. JK01M-8078. Now, Therefore, it is notified for general information that objections, if any to the proposed transfer of the said route permit/vehicle shall be filed in writing in the office of the Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir within a period of seven days from the date of publication of this notice. Seller and Purchaser identified by the authorised representative of M/s Meerak Shah Taxi Stand namely Mr. Showkat Ahmad.

No: JK RTOK 3628 Sd/- Regional Transport Officer Dated: 17-07-2013 Kashmir

Telephone..........

concerned police stations to pay telephone bills in time so that connections do not get disconnected.

Inspector General of Police Kashmir Division, Abdul Gani Mir said that he would look into the matter. “I would check it if anywhere telephones are out of order they will be restored,” he said.

Water Shortage.........

taps are running dry and even using boosters is not helping. “We have approached concerned officials but nothing was done on ground despite assurances. Our women have to get up at midnight to collect water as during daytime the taps run dry because of misuse,” said a local resident Haji Assadullah. “This problem has been existing there for many years now and it worsens during summers when water usage increases. We have met almost every officer in the water works department but they only made promises and did nothing,” said another resident Noor Mohammad.

According to the locals, the water shortage problem has also been brought into the notice of local MLA but he too did nothing.

The locals have threatened to come on streets if their problems are not addressed on permanent basis. “We do not want to do it but if nothing is being done, we will have to come on the streets to press for our demand,” the residents said.

ATM Guard.........

from the ATM. Station House Officer Ram Munshi Bagh said that they have arrested the accused and have already registered a case in this regard. “An FIR vide 108/2013 under section 457 and 380 RPC has been registered against the guilty,” he said.

Owner, Printer, Publisher & Editor-n-Chief: Suhail Malik, RNI No: JKBIL/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Published from: Govt. Quarters (M-13) Magarmal Bagh Srinagar -190001, J&K, Printed at: Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No: 09999964750, 9796787844

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

Srinagar |thurSday

18 .7.2013

Mir reviews functioning of various departments HOROSCOPE Aries

Asks officers to ensure best facilities to Amarnath yatries

March 21-April 19 You probably aren’t going to feel like socializing even though friends want you to go out with them. Your patience could be worn a bit thin, Aries, and you may get annoyed at incidents that normally wouldn’t bother you. This isn’t a good day for group activities or parties.

It might be best to get a good workout and then rest. You will feel much better afterward.

JAMMU, JULY 17-

Taurus

Minister for Tourism, Ghulam Ahmed Mir, Wednesday reviewed the pace of progress on various ongoing developmental works besides taking stock of functioning of various departments here at a high level meeting.

Mir, who is here to attend Jammu Summer Secretariat, had a detailed review of essential services including power, water, irrigation, health, agriculture, and other civic amenities besides various issues concerning the people of the region.

Additional Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, R. S. Mehta, Additional District Development Commissioner, Jammu, Rehana Batul, DIG JammuKathua Range, Shakeel A. Beig, VC JDA Satesh Nehru, CE Mech M. P. Shamra, SE PHE Sunil Gupta, SE EM & RE Gur-

April 20-May 20

bachan Singh, Joint Director Agriculture Dr. S. S. Jamwal, CMO Jammu Dr. Javed Chib, Joint Director Education Saif Ali Chouhan, Joint Commissioner Kapil Sharma besides other senior officers of concerned departments attended the meeting.

While reviewing power and water scenario in Jammu region, the Minister laid emphasis on maintenance of transmission and distribution system besides repair of damaged conductors, transformers on priority. He directed News Agency Kangan Khan the PHE department to ensure regular

water supply to the people during the ongoing summer season.

Mir directed PDD authorities to keep close check on power breakdowns to avoid inconvenience to the consumers. He called for minimum curtailment of power so that people may not suffer in hot summer. He also directed Irrigation and Flood Control Department to ensure adequate water supply to the farmers for irrigation of their land.

The Minister asked the executing News Agency Ganderbal agencies to complete all the develop-

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Lone Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan SRINAGAR, JULY 17: Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate The meeting of Departmental Related Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Standing Committee-II on the functionLone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora ing of Consumer Affairs and Public DisSAMBA JULY 17: District Development Commissioner R.K Bhat News Agency Magam ZargarDepartment News Agency Kunzar tribution (CA&PD) of the Varma on Wednesday inaugurated one day seminar cum awareDar News Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal State Legislative Council was held here ness camp, organized by the J&K Khadi and Village Industries Wednesday under Agency the Chairmanship News Agency Safapora Saleem News Pattan of Board (KVIB) on PrimeReshi Minister‘s Employment Generation ProMLC Vijay Bakaya. gramme (PMEGP ), at village Gudwal, Viijaypur.

Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore The DDC appreciated the officers and staff of the KVIB for Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund organizing such type of awareness camps to educate the people News Baramulla G.M News Agency Sopore especially the youth forJeelani setting up theirAgency own enterprises\income Shahthe News Agency Sultan News Agency Handwara generating units.Addressing gathering, theKupwara DDC called for a change in the mindset Younis of unemployed youth towards entrepreNews Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad neurship so that they could become job providers instead of job Reshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agency Tral seekers.He said that such programmes besides encouraging the Turray News Agency Tral Badru News Agency Bijbehara youth for setting up their income generating units help in developing cordial relationship between the department and the loRahi News Agency Kulgam Malik News Agency Arwani cal people. He directedRah the concerned officers to create massive News Agency Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil

DDC inaugurates seminar cum awareness camp on PMEGP

awareness about different State and centrally sponsored schemes and stressed upon the Sarpanchs and Panchs to render their services with utmost zeal and dedication.The DDC further said that local industry holds the required potential to ameliorate unemployment from the state and KVIB is under solemn affirmation to provide employment to all the unemployed youths especially those residing in rural areas. He impressed upon officers to ensure that benefit of various development and welfare schemes reach to the real beneficiaries timely. Officers and Experts from different line departments viz. Agriculture, Horticulture, DIC, DRDA, Employment and Bank functionaries created awareness among the youth for setting up their own enterprises.Earlier, District Officer KVIB ,Samba Santosh Saraf presented a resume of activities of the board and elaborated in detail the features of PMEGP.Among others present were Chief Agriculture Officer Samba, Dr. Riaz from DIC Samba, Anju Thappa Executive Counselor Employment and Counseling Centre M.K Gupta, Director RSETI Samba, district officers besides Sarpanches, Panches, NGOs and locals of the area.

ment works within stipulated time frame by using quality material, adding the Government has resolved to create durable assets to people across the state. He directed all the officers to work with dedication and ensure the essential services are made available to the general public during the ongoing summer.

Earlier, the Minister visited Jammu base camp, Yatri Niwas Bhagwati Nagar and took stock of arrangements made by the district administration for the visiting Shri Amarnathji Ya-

Bakaya chairs DRSC-II meet

The Committee discussed threadbare, supply and distribution system of essential commodities in the State.

Legislators Jehangir Ahmad Mir and Ravinder Kumar Sharma, Secretary CA&PD Mohammad Abbas Dar, Director CA&PD Kashmir Mir Mushtaq Ahmed, Special Secretary CA&PD, besides Special Secretary Legislative Assembly Mohammad Maqbool and senior officers of CA&PD attended the meeting. The legis-

lators gave their valuable suggestions for streamlining the distribution system of essential commodities.

Discussing the supply and distribution of LPG in the State, the meeting was informed that 110 Gas agencies are functional in the state out of which 64 are in Jammu division while as 46 in Kashmir division. The meeting was informed that

on persuasion of the State Government, the Oil India Companies hailed setting up of additional 65 Gas agencies on various locations in Jammu and Kashmir. After completing all codal formalities envisaged under norms of OIC, 14 agencies have been established at various places.

The meeting was informed that the department has in total recommended 172 locations which includes all rural blocks headquarters and additional in Ur-

Environment Committee of LC expresses concern over losing green cover SRINAGAR, JULY 17: The Environment Committee of State Legislative Council has called for departmental interaction among various departments to have consensus required to face the challenges posed by global warming and climate change in the State.

The Committee which met here Wednesday under the chairmanship of Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah (Veeri) held threadbare discussions on the impacts of climate change and its impacts on forests and the initiatives being taken by the Government in Jammu and Kashmir.

Legislators, Naresh Kumar Gupta, Vijay Bakaya, Showkat Hussain Ganai, Syed Muhammad Rafiq Shah and Muzaffar Parray attended the meeting.

Besides, Commissioner-Secretary, Agriculture Production, Dr. Asgar Samoon, Commissioner Secretary Revenue Sheikh Ejaz Iqbal, Chief of Forest Force and Chairman Pollution Control Board, Vinod Ranjan and senior officers of Forest Department and Legislative

Council also attended the meeting.

The Committee observed that there has been significant improvement in scientific understanding of climate change in the past 20 years. The Committee also observed that glacial melt in the Himalayas is expected to increase flooding, rock avalanches from destabilized slopes and affect water resources and decreased river flows as the glaciers recede.

The Committee opined that the State has suffered substantially due to lack of planning to cover environment and deforestation which has caused environmental hazard, especially the natural resources. The Committee was of the view that the State has been blessed with rich natural resources and healthy environment and all out efforts should be made to protect these with the coordinated approach and involvement of various stakeholders.

The Forest Department gave a comprehensive Power Point Presentation on climate change and its impact on forests of the state before the House Committee.

The presentation, inter-alia, touched on the areas of depleting forest cover and its impact on water availability, flora and fauna and the environment. The meeting was informed that in future the temperature is likely to increase, however the State would also experience greater rainfall. The Forest Department is ambitiously targeting covering 66% area with forests as against the present coverage of only 42%.

The Chairman and the Members of the Committee registered their concern on depleting forests as also ruthless felling of trees including Chinars.

During the deliberations it was suggested that Horticulture plantation could be encouraged on the wastelands on PPP mode.

Further it was suggested that Ladakh region could be made greener as with the new power projects, the water availability there can be ensured. The Chairman suggested that inter departmental deliberations are a must to evolve a consensus on future road map for sustainable eco-system.

Kichloo reviews water supply scenario in Kishtwar KISHTWAR, JULY 17: The Minister of state for Industries and Commerce, Home, R&B , MED, HUDD, Tourism and Culture, Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo reviewed the drinking water supply scenario here Wednesday and asked the concerned functionaries to take every step to ensure that the people may not suffer due to lack of this essential amenity. Chairing a meeting here Wednesday to discuss the remedial measures to overcome the water scarcity problem in the town, the minister asked the PHE functionaries to expedite the pace of work on the Naigad Water Supply scheme and in the meantime step up the supply of water through tankers in

water stressed areas.Deputy Commissioner, Saleem Mohammad, other senior civil and police officers besides prominent civil society members, Panchayat representatives and other Social activists attended the meeting.The Minister

asked the district administration to work in coordination to speed up work on core sector projects, including the Water Supply Schemes and creation of supporting infrastructure

tries.

The Minister went round Yatri Niwas complex and inspected the lodging and other facilities put in place for the yatries. He impressed upon the concerned officers to make sure that yatries do not face any problem at the Jammu base camp and other stations.

He said that the Government is determined to ensure smooth conduct of the annual yatra. He also interacted with the Yatries and enquired them about the facilities being extended to them by the administration.

to run these schemes.Responding to the points raised by the PHE functionaries, the minister asked the Power Development Department(PDD) to procure transformers and other equipment to ensure uninterrupted working of existing Water Lift Scheme.

He asked the district administration to use every means at their disposal to ensure adequate and better civic amenities to the people.He reiterated that government was committed to provide safe drinking water in every area of the state and asked the concerned officers to understand responsibility and ensure this basic facility to people. He enquired about all the related aspects and progress on Naigad Water Supply.

ban areas.

It was given out in the meeting that the cooking gas is being distributed to the consumers through Home Delivery System from March 31 this year onwards and the facility is being ensured in the major towns besides providing refills to the other rural consumers through point delivery.

The meeting was informed that the department is holding fortnightly meetings with the LPG dealers and the representatives of Oil marketing companies for removing bottlenecks, if any in the smooth distribution of LPG. It was also given out in the meeting that the enforcement squads of the CA&PD has been instructed to keep strict vigil on LPG dealers operating in their jurisdiction for ensuring smooth delivery to the consumers and compliance report are sought regularly.

The meeting was informed that ration is being provided to 18.02 lakh families of the state as per the projected population of 2000 census on the average rational norms of 5.52 souls per family. The State is receiving 63067 mts food grains monthly from Government of India which is being distributed through 5130 number of sale outlets which includes 1523 Government Depots, 3587 Fair Price Shops and 20 Cooperative Societies, the meeting was informed.

Arrangements for Holy Ramadhan reviewed at Bla BARAMULLA, JULY 17: With a view to ensure adequate arrangements for the holy month of Ramadhan-ulMubarak and availability of essential commodities in the market on reasonable rates, a meeting of concerned officers was held under the Chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Baramulla here Wednesday. Representatives of Beopar Mandal, Auqaf Islamia and LPG dealers were also present in the meeting.It was decided in the meeting that the PDD shall provide uninterrupted power supply to the consumers as per the schedule without any curtailment.

Assistant Director CA&PD informed that buffer stock of Rice, Atta, Sugar and Kerosene oil including LPG are available with the department.

The Executive Officers of Municipal Committee of Ba-

ramulla, Sopore, Pattan, Tangmarg and Uri were directed to ensure better sanitation arrangements in their respective jurisdictions especially at Jamia Masjid, Khankha and Eidgah.

Meanwhile, the Poultry Officer Baramulla informed the meeting that buffer stock of poultry birds are available besides local producers have established sale centres at all the places of Baramulla town and Tehsil headquarters and assured that the birds available shall be sold at the rate of Rs.95/- per Kg. The District Development Commissioner impressed upon CA&PD, Metrology departments and all concerned Tehsildars to ensure market checking in their respective jurisdictions and intensify a drive against traders found involved in illegal trade practices of hoarding and profiteering and take appropriate action against the defaulters under law.

Gurezi visits Amira Kadal constituency SRINAGAR, JULY 17: Minister of State for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Nazir Ahmed Gurezi Wednesday visited various areas of AmiraKadal Constituency which include Mahjoor Nagar, Iqbal Colony, Gulshanpora and Padshahi Bagh and took stock of the problems confronting people of these areas.

MLA Amira Kadal , Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Engineer, PHE and other senior officers and engineers of line departments accompanied the Minister during the tour.

Interacting with the people, the Minister said that the government is already aware about their problems and due consideration is being paid to redress them for their convenience. He said work on various micro and mega developmental projects is going –on in the area, adding that some projects of public importance are also in pipeline.

The Minister said that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to provide all basic amenities to the people of all the three regions of the State.

He said that sufficient funds have been earmarked under PHE sector with the aim to en-

Uptight is the mood for today. You might be the center of attention at some point. While you normally wouldn’t mind, Taurus, today it might make you nervous. When everyone looks at you and expects you to say something, say it. Keep it short and then withdraw.

You aren’t in the mood. Walk to the library and throw yourself into reading about subjects that interest you

Gemini May 21-June 21

Think about bending the rules on Monday. It’s OK to color outside the lines once in a while. “Safety first” should be your catchphrase on Wednesday. Don’t send text messages while driving. Harness the power of your mind on Friday. Visualize achieving a cherished goal.

You’ll find the right words to say in any situation when your ruler Mercury turns direct on Saturday.

Cancer June 22-July 22

Money worries might have you more on edge than usual, Cancer. While you may be doing well, you could still be insecure enough to think that your funds might not stretch far enough. Consider the situation objectively. You will probably be relieved by what you find.

Others’ demands on your time might irritate you more than usual.

Leo

July 23-August 22 More than usual, you’re probably craving solitude today, Leo. Although you may have committed to attending a party or get-together, now the idea may seem irritating. You may rather work on some tasks or projects, or you might want to go for a workout and release some of the tension you feel. The latter idea is good. If you exercise early, you might feel like going out later.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Although you’re normally a sociable person who feels most comfortable in the company of others, Virgo, today you may prefer to be alone. You could feel a little under the weather, or you could be stressed from jobrelated worries. You probably need rest, but you might also benefit from taking a walk to work off some tension, get the endorphins going, and help you feel like yourself again.

Libra

September 23-October 23 You tend to enjoy solitude, Libra, but today you might feel more reclusive than usual. Friends could invite you out, but you aren’t likely to accept the offer.

You might even feel a little irritated. This is a great day to work out or throw yourself into your own projects.

Your concentration is good and the physical activity will get relieve the stress.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 There might be tension in the air for no discernible reason today. Family members might seem preoccupied with problems they can’t define. Your natural inclination could be to try to cheer them up, Scorpio, but it probably won’t work. Don’t be annoyed if they don’t respond. It isn’t them. Blame the planets. This is a great day to jog, take a cardio class.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Some mysterious telephone calls might come your way - wrong numbers or hang-ups. Other people might seem less communicative than usual, Sagittarius, and you may be preoccupied. You might feel a bit more nervous than usual, but that should go away if you take a walk or get some other exercise. If you’ve been thinking about doing some writing, this is the day to start.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Confusion over money matters might arise, Capricorn. You may need to check your records to shed light on past transactions. Don’t worry. All should be well once you ascertain the facts. You might have some intense dreams tonight. Write them down. You will want to remember them later, because they might reveal a lot about your current situation.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

Confusion over money matters might arise, Capricorn. You may need to check your records to shed light on past transactions. Don’t worry. All should be well once you ascertain the facts. You might have some intense dreams tonight. Write them down. You will want to remember them later, because they might reveal a lot about your current situation.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 sure adequate drinking water facilities to the people of the state at their doorsteps.

The locals projected demand with main thrust on extending drinking water facility in these areas.

You might feel a bit tense, Pisces, and you probably won’t understand why. The reason? The planets. You might jump at unexpected noises or take offense where none is intended. Relations with others might be a little strained, necessitating some communication about how you’re feeling. Try to work off the tension by taking a brisk walk or perhaps working out at the gym.

Editorial/Opinion Thursday, 18 July 2013

Food adulteration

T

he shocking pictures of 22 children killed in Chapra district in Bihar are sending cold waves down the spine of the people.

How innocent children fell victim to substandard and adulterated food is very tragic and heart rendering. Unfortunately here in Kashmir too, food adulteration has touched alarming proportions. It is not too far when Food Safety Standards Authority of India revealed that 83 per cent of milk produced and consumed in Jammu and Kashmir was contaminated with components like salt, detergents, caustic soda and several other harmful substances. The Drugs and Food Control Organization, Kashmir, too has asserted that 30 per cent of food items in the Valley were highly adulterated while Kashmir alone consumed 75 per cent of contaminated milk. No doubt food safety officers have been working in different districts and sub districts to check the menace of contamination and they had been collecting samples of milk from time to time, for which they had already sent reports to higher authorities to take action against the companies involved in adulteration. But the fact remains that the menace of adulteration continues as hardly any action is taken against the perpetrators. In many other food and edible items experts have found that turmeric and chili powder, sweets, ghee, pickles, oils, salt had been adulterated with toxic colors, starch with other harmful substances. Reliable sources in the Drugs & Food Control Organization said contaminated products were a source of income for various law enforcement officials and other unscrupulous elements.

Contamination is possible only when concerned administration officials adopt a non-serious approach towards the companies involved in the crime. Although lower rung officials do their job like sampling, testing and reporting their findings to the food commissioner and other authorities who, on their part more often than not prefer to look the other way. Almost all the food items sold in public markets are poisoned.

The situation usually goes beyond mere adulteration. High levels of red and yellow category pesticides including organochlorine and organo phosphorous pesticides found in vegetables and fruits.

Pesticide is applied at every stage on vegetables for sale. Even coconut too has become unsafe with the use of aluminium phosphide. Some of these applications are quite unnecessary or by way of extreme action to prevent pest attack. The consumption of vegetables treated thus has resulted in high incidence of various diseases, including impotency and kidney failure.

Pesticide is being applied even on fish to keep away flies. Fomalin is being used to prevent rotting. Milk also comes with pesticides and formalin besides a number of chemicals used for preservation including antibiotics. These can cause serious health problems. Very few dairies supply milk that is not dangerous. Similar is the case with meat. Quality checks are only in paper while producers and traders use all sorts of methods to increase yield. The government had been failing to act the new food adulteration law, citing various excuses including absence of laboratories for routine checks.

The real reason for lack of enforcement is, however, the nexus among traders, politicians and officials. The chief minister should order appropriate action in the matter. If Omar Abdullah is serious in improving the health sector, he should not let people die. He should immediately check the menace of adulteration to bring down the incidence of diseases.

ZABARWAN TIMES 9

Thursday, 18 July 2013

Kashmiri Handicrafts

The Daily

Zabarwan Times

Daily

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ammu and Kashmir is not only home to the vast cultural and ethnic diversity but also the heaven for arts and crafts that have been carefully nurtured for the centuries. A variety of motifs, techniques and crafts flourished in the land as the people from different regions and many skilled craftsmen decided to settle amidst its charming abundance of natural beauty. With time, these arts have gained even more distinctiveness and today Kashmir is known for woolen textiles, embroidered suits, Kashmir silk saris, papier mache, woodcarving, hand knotted carpets and lot of other traditional arts.

CARPET Kashmiri carpets are world renowned for two things- they are handmade and they are always knotted, never tufted. The yarn used normally is silk, wool or silk and wool. Woolen carpets always have a cotton base while silk usually have cotton base. Sometimes however, if the base is also in silk then the cost increases proportionately. Occasionally, carpets are made on a cotton base, mainly of woolen pile with silk yarn used as highlights on certain motifs. The soothing blend of colors makes the Kashmiri carpet a prized possession.

Carpet weaving in Kashmir was not originally indigenous but is thought to have come in by way of Persia. Till today most designs are distinctly Persian with local variations. One example, however, of a typical Kashmiri design is the tree of life. The colors of Kashmiri carpets are more subtle and muted than elsewhere in the country. The knotting of the carpet is the most important aspect, determining its durability and value, in addition to its design. Basically, the more knots per square inch, the greater its value and durability. Also there are single and double-knotted carpets. A single knotted carpet is fluffier and more resistant to touch.

NAMDAS Far less expensive are these colorful floor coverings made from woolen and cotton fiber, which has been manually pressed into shape. Prices vary with the percentage of wool - a Namda containing 80% wool being more expensive than one containing 20% wool. Chain stitch embroidery in woolen and cotton thread

is worked on these rugs.

PAPIER MACHE Besides at least three different grades of Papier Mache, there are some cheaper versions in cardboard or wood available too. To make Papier Mache, first paper is soaked in water till it disintegrates. It is then pounded, mixed with an adhesive solution, shaped over moulds, and allowed to dry and set before being painted and varnished. Paper that has been pounded to pulp has the smoothest finish in the final product. The designs painted on objects of Papier Mache are brightly colored. They vary in artistry and the choices of colors. Gold is used on most objects, either as the only color, or as the highlight for certain motifs, and besides the finish of the product, it is the quality of the gold used which determines the price.

Pure Gold leaf, which has the unmistakable luster, is far more expensive than bronze dust or gold poster paint but also has much longer life and will never fade or tarnish. Varnish, which is applied to the finished product, imparts a high gloss and smoothness, which increases with every coat. Cardboard, usually indistinguishable from Papier Mache, gives slightly when pressed firmly.

SHAWLS There are three fibers from which the Kashmiri shawls are made - Wool, Pashmina and Shahtoosh. Woolen shawls are the cheapest while the Shahtoosh are the most expensive ones. Woolen shawls are popular because of the embroidery work on them, which is a specialty to Kashmir.

Many kinds of embroidery are worked on shawls- 'sozni' or needlework is generally done in a panel along the sides of the shawl. Motifs, usually abstract designs or stylized paisleys and flowers are worked in one or two, occasionally three colors, all subdued. Another type of needle embroidery is popularly known. This is done in broad panels on either side of the breadth of a shawl, or covering the entire surface of a shawl. Ari or hook embroidery; motifs are well-known flower design finely worked in concentric rings of chain stitch.

Pashmina shawls are unmistakably soft and its yarn is spun from the hair of the ibex found at 14,000 ft above the sea

level. Although pure Pashmina is expensive, sometimes blending it with rabbit fur or with wool brings down the cost. Shahtoosh is the legendary 'ring shawl', renowned for its lightness, softness and warmth. The astronomical price it commands in the market is due to the scarcity of raw material. High in the plateaux of Tibet and the eastern part of Ladakh, at an altitude of above 5,000 meters, roam Pantholops Hodgosoni or Tibetan antelope. During grazing, a few strands of the downy hair from the throat are shed and it is these, which are painstakingly collected until there are enough for a shawl. Yarn is spun either from Shahtoosh alone, or with Pashmina to bring down the cost. In the case of pure Shahtoosh too, there are many qualities the yarn can be spun so skillfully as to resemble a strand of silk. Not only are shawls made from such fine yarn extremely expensive, they can only be loosely woven and are too flimsy for embroidery to be done on them. Unlike woolen or Pashmina shawls, Shahtoosh is seldom dyed. Its natural color is mousy brown, and it is, at the most, sparsely embroidered.

PHERANS This garment seems to be fusion of a coat and a cloak and is loose enough to admit the inevitable brazier of live coals, which is carried around in much the same way as a hot water bottle. Men's pherans are always made of tweed or coarse wool while women's pherans, somewhat more stylized, are most commonly made of raffel with splashes of ari or hook embroidery at the throat, cuffs and edges.

The quality of embroidery and thickness of the raffel determines the price.

BASKETS Willow rushes that grow profusely in marshes and lakes of Kashmir are used to make charmingly attractive objects such as shopping baskets, lampshades, tables and chairs and are generally inexpensive.

To increase their life span, unvarnished products should be chiseled and frequently sprayed with water, particularly in hot, dry climates, to prevent them from being brittle.

WALNUTWOOD Kashmir is the only part of India where the walnut tree grows. Its color, grains and inherent sheen are unique and

unmistakable, and the carving and fret work that is done on this wood is of a very superior quality. There are two types of walnut trees - the fruit bearing species whose wood is so well known, and one that bears no fruit and is locally known as 'zangul'.

Zangul has none of the beauty of walnut wood, being much less strong and possessing no grain while the walnut wood is almost black and its grains are much more pronounced than the wood of the trunk, which is lighter in color. The branches have the lightest color, being almost blonde and have no noticeable grain. The intrinsic worth of the wood from each part of the tree differs - that from the root being the most expensive and the branches having the lowest price.

A cheaper product is liable to warp, or in case it is taken to warmer climes, will crack or shrink. Knots are usually concealed skillfully in the sawing, as it is difficult, though not impossible, to mask them while carving.

Carving is the demonstration of the carver's skill, and walnut is eminently suitable for this, being one of the strongest varieties of wood. There are several varieties of carving-deep carving usually with dragon or lotus flower motifs, two inches deep or more; shallow carving, half an inch deep done all over the flat surface; open or lattice work, usually depicting the Chinar motif; and most popularly, semi carving, which is a thin panel along the rim of a surface, with perhaps a Centre motif. The advantage of the semi-carving is that it allows the grain of wood to be displayed, together with the carver's skill. Naturally deep carving with all the skill and labor required is the most expensive.

Copper and Silverware Shops in local market of the old city abound with objects of copper lining the walls, the floor and even the ceiling. One can see craftsmen engraving objects of household utility like samovars, bowls, plates and trays. There are floral, stylized, geometric, leaf and even calligraphic motifs that are engraved or embossed on copper, and occasionally silver, to cover the entire surface with intricate designs which are then oxidized. The work known as 'naqash' determines the price of the object, as does the weight.

Tobacco-The Deadliest Killer

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obacco products are made entirely or partly of leaf tobacco as raw material, which are intended to be smoked, sucked, chewed or snuffed. All contains the highly addictive psychoactive ingredient, nicotine. Tobacco was introduced into India by Portuguese traders during AD 1600. Its use and production proliferated to such a great extent that today India is the second largest producer of tobacco in the world. Soon after its introduction, it became a valuable commodity of barter trade in India. Trade expanded and tobacco spread rapidly along the Portuguese trade routes in the East, via Africa to India, Malaysia, Japan and China. During this period, the habit of smoking spread across several South Asian countries. Virtually every household in the Portuguese colonies took up the newly introduced habits of smoking and chewing tobacco. India is one of the biggest tobacco markets in the world, ranking third in total tobacco consumption. However, the per capita consumption in the country is 0.9 kg compared to the world average of 1.8 kg.

Tobacco usages in India is contrary to world trends since chewing tobacco and beedi are the dominant forms of tobacco consumption, whereas internationally, cigarette is the dominant form of tobacco use. In the late nineteenth century, the beedi industry began to grow in India.

The price differential from cigarettes favoured the use of beedis and this domestic product soon supplanted cigarettes as the major form of tobacco consumption. While tobacco chewing was practiced for many centuries, commercial production and marketing have been scaled recently, with the introduction of the gutka. The rate of growth of consumption of gutka has overtaken that of smoking forms of tobacco. As a result, oral tobacco consumption has opened a new and broader front in the battle between commercial tobacco and public health in India. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey

India report notes that Khaini is the most commonly used smokeless tobacco product. Gutkha is the second most common form. The consumption of smokeless tobacco in India is also prevalent in various other forms e.g. paan with tobacco, paan masala with tobacco, Gul, Mawa, Mishri, Bajjar, Gudakhu etc, which are used as dentifrice i.e. for application on teeth or gums. Evidence shows that smokeless tobacco contains more than 3000 chemical compounds of which 29 are proven carcinogens i.e. cancer causing substances. One of the main risk factors for tobacco use is number of chronic diseases, including cancer, lung diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. It is the single most cause of disease, disability and death. Each year

lower respiratory tract infections. As per the recent Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) India Report, 2010, the use of smokeless tobacco among adult males in India is as high as 32.9% and for females it is 18.4%. Overall, 26% of the adult population consumes smokeless tobacco.

The Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS)-India, 2009 similarly revealed that 12.5% (Boys = 16.2%, Girls = 7.2%) youth use tobacco products other than cigarettes. According to ICMR, 50% of cancers among men and 25% among women in India are related to tobacco use.

Nearly 90% of oral cancers are related to use of chewing tobacco. States with high prevalence of smokeless tobacco also face the challenge of high burden of oral cancer. Besides oral cancer, smokeless

One of the main risk factors for tobacco use is number of chronic diseases, including cancer, lung diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. It is the single most cause of disease, disability and death. people die prematurely from smoking or exposure to secondhand smoking.

Despite these risks people smoke cigarettes. The harmful effects of smoking do not end with the smoker.

Adults and children aged 3–11 years are exposed to secondhand smoke. Even brief exposure can be dangerous because nonsmokers inhale many of the same poisons as smokers. Secondhand smoke exposure causes diseases including heart disease and lung cancer in nonsmoking adults and sudden infant death syndrome, acute respiratory infections, ear problems, and more frequent and severe asthma attacks in children. Each year primarily because of exposure to secondhand smoke nonsmoking people die of lung cancer, heart disease, and children younger than 18 months have

tobacco use is also associated with cancers of food pipe, pancreas, kidney, throat and stomach. There is also increased risk of death from cardiovascular diseases among smokeless tobacco users. Recently an initiative has been taken and serious concern raised over growing Gutka/Pan Masala menace in India. India has the highest number of oral cancer in the world with 75,000 to 80,000 new cases of oral cancers being reported every year and chewing tobacco and gutka contribute to 90 percent of oral cancer cases in the country. Cancer of oral cavity is frequent and common finding among the cancer patients show addiction to gutka and other tobacco products. It is observed that magnitude of tobacco related cancer in average is on an upward

trend in Eastern and North Eastern India.

This is largely due to high prevalence of tobacco consumption.

According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS 2010) nearly one third of Indian population is addicted to smokeless tobacco. A large number of children and youth in India are addicted to smokeless tobacco. These preparations essentially have tobacco with or without supari and are well proven to be harmful for health. Smokeless tobacco contains nicotine and direct consumption of which is highly addictive. Scientific evidence has established that tobacco chewing causes cancer of mouth, ocesophagus (food pipe), larynx and pharynx (throat), pancreas, stomach, kidney and lung. It can also cause high blood pressure and other life threatening cardiovascular conditions like myocardial ischemia, stroke etc. Consumption of tobacco may be reduced by raising the price of tobacco.

It has proven to be one of the most effective strategies for preventing and controlling tobacco use. Specifically the increasing cigarette prices would decrease the prevalence of tobacco use, particularly among youth and young adults, and that increases in cigarette excise taxes would lead to substantial long-term improvements in the nation’s health. A 10% increase in the price of cigarettes is estimated to reduce consumption by nearly 4% among adults, and the potential reduction among young people and low-income populations is even higher. Evidence-based, statewide tobacco control programs that are comprehensive, sustained, and accountable have shown to reduce smoking rates, tobacco-related deaths, and diseases caused by smoking. A comprehensive program is a coordinated effort to establish tobacco free policies, reduce the social acceptability of tobacco use, promote cessation, help tobacco users quit, and prevent initiation of tobacco use.

This approach combines educational, clinical, regulatory, economic, and social strategies.

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

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ZABARWANTIMES ZABARWAN TIMES THURSDAY | 18 JULY 2013

Superfoods every woman must have Fat burning myths busted

Feel younger, stay slim and thwart diseases by including these superfoods in your diet. We brought in experts to tell you what you need to eat, to stay fit and healthy. So, sit back and read on as we give you some important tips that work wonders..

Low fat yoghurt High in calcium and protein, low fat yoghurt is ideal for women.

Nutritionist Pallavi Srivastava says, "Yoghurt, being an excellent source of calcium, helps fight osteoporosis. The consumption of yoghurt is also said to decrease the risk of breast cancer, reduce irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory digestive tract disorders — all of which are common in women."

It reduces the risk of stomach ulcers and vaginal infections.

Quantity: 1 bowl every day Fatty fish Fatty fish are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon, sardines, tuna and mackerel help reduce the risk

of blood clot formation that might occur due to the use of contraceptive pills. Bariatric surgeon Dr Abhay Agrawal says, "Fatty fish protects against diseases related to the heart, stroke, hypertension, depression, joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis and reproductive problems, and in some cases even from Alzheimer's disease."

Omega-3 helps in optimal brain and vision development of the baby in the case of pregnant or lactating mothers. It is known to boost the level of serotonin, which is a feel-good brain chemical that aids in fighting postpartum depression.

Quantity - 2 to 3 servings every week Beans Low in fat and cholesterol; and a good source of protein and fibre, beans fight against heart disease and breast cancer. They are ideal for women who are either affected or have chances of getting colon

cancer. An excellent source of vegetable protein, they aid women going through menopause.

Quantity: 3 to 4 servings every week Dark chocolate Dark chocolates are said to be rich in protective anti-oxidants that help reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease. It consists of magnesium, manganese, phosphorous and copper zinc, which are important nutrients for maintaining strong bones. Certain studies also suggest that dark chocolate lowers blood pressure, sharpens thinking and hydrates the skin. It's the perfect stressbuster when a woman is PMSing, and it tastes sensual without being high in calories.

Quantity: One quarter a day Papaya An excellent source of potassium and vitamin C, papaya can offset the potentially harmful effects of sodium on blood pressure. A research by the US Department of Health and Human Services suggests that women are at a higher risk of gallstones than men. So, load up on papaya because it helps combat gallbladder diseases. But pregnant women should refrain from papaya since it acts as a contraceptive, which can lead to a miscarriage or an abortion.

Quantity: 2 slices per day Tomatoes Tomatoes contain a powerful antioxidant — lycopene, which helps reduce the chances of being affected with breast cancer. Nutritionist Mansi Belani says, "Tomatoes are also known to protect from the harmful UV rays of the sun. It helps a woman stay younger and

slimmer."

Quantity: 1 tomato every day Spinach Spinach is known to be one of the best sources of folate which prevents birth defects, heart disease, colon cancer and dementia.

Spinach also helps our skin from getting damaged due to heat, and delays wrinkling, fine lines and roughness of the skin with comes with age.

Quantity: About 2 to 3 servings a week Berries Dr Agrawal suggests, "Like wine, berries protect your body with powerful anti-carcinogenic nutrients — anthocyans, which are believed to play a role in cell repair."

High in vitamin C and folic acid, it is essential for women in their child bearing years. Its powerful anti-oxidant not only protects the heart but also the skin against ageing. Cranberries are known to have a positive impact on your vision, and to help reduce the chances of urinary tract infections which are common in women of all age groups.

Quantity: 3 to 4 servings every week Whole grains The consumption of whole grain helps combat blood pressure and a slow metabolism. Srivastava says, "Swapping refined grains like white bread and rice with whole wheat bread, rice, brown rice and oats will add more fibre to your diet and give you a feeling of fullness with fewer calories." Studies suggest that whole grains help the body retain potassium, which helps in maintaining blood pressure

When it comes to getting healthy or burning fat, you are fed with misinformation all the time.

Instead of being misled or discouraged or being confused on whether to believe it or not, here are a few facts on the most common fat-burning myths along with the right tips Myth 1: No time!

If scheduling cardio and weight training seems like too much time and effort, try combining the two. The combination of cardio and weight training not only burns calories but saves time as well. This technique called circuit training focuses on resistance training intervals along with intervals of cardio.

You can create workout "stations," each featuring a different weight training exercise for a muscle or muscle group. Do each station with a maximum rest period of 30 seconds in between each exercise to keep calorie-burning at its maximum.

Myth 2: Long cardio sessions work best Even with the best intentions, it's not always possible or feasible to exercise for 60 minutes or longer at one time. And if you're looking to drop pounds, it's also not the most efficient way.

Instead, try intervals, which involves alternating

bouts of intense exercise with less-intense recovery periods. Short, intense exercise bursts burn more calories than working out at the same intensity for the same length of time.

The active recovery periods allow for greater intensity during the work intervals and, subsequently, more calories are burned overall. Try the pre-programmed interval training programmes on cardio equipment, or do it yourself by alternating 30 to 60 seconds of vigorous activity with the same amount of easy exertion.

Myth 3: You should stay within the fat-burning zone when doing cardio Treadmills and other cardio equipment display colourful charts indicating various zones, one of which indicates a 'fat-burning' zone. These

zones refer to the percentage of fat burned, not the total calories. You burn the highest percentage of fat while you're sleeping.

But you're also burning the least number of calories, which is what counts towards body fat loss.

Instead, look for ways to burn a greater number of calories over all and the weight and fat will automatically drop off.

Myth 4: Only cardio leads to faster weight loss The intensity of the workout determines how many additional calories you'll burn. Cardiovascular fitness helps lower body fat by burning more calories while you're exercising, but weight training helps burn more fat and calories even when you're relaxing. The harder the workout, the longer the after-burn effect.

Diabetes: A reason to worry!

With its origins in ancient religious and spiritual traditions, meditation is a widely used mind-body practice used even today, to complement medical procedures and treatments.

Although, used mostly for relaxation and stress reduction, meditation-based therapy is increasingly offered in medical centers and clinics today to manage pain and reduce anxiety prior to surgeries.

Surprised? Recent studies have shown that frequent practice of meditation can lead to significant control of pain. Read on to know how meditation alters your pain perception and quells pain even better than some of the most powerful drugs.

Meditation and common forms The term meditation refers to a set of techniques wherein a person minimizes the activity of the mind without altering the level of alertness. Broadly, the

Scientists may have hit upon an effective way to block asthma attacks by identifying the two most significant biological triggers that bring them on.

Researchers from the Universities of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF), Johns Hopkins and Duke universities demonstrate that these two triggers for asthma are tied to a specific calcium-activated chloride channel, called TMEM16A. They regulate airway secretions and smooth muscle contraction, the two major factors linked with asthma attacks, according to the journal "Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences".

"Maybe if we could inhibit both of these processes by blocking this one channel, we could affect the two symptoms of asthma," said senior study author Jason Rock, assistant professor of anatomy at UCSF. Asthma, a respiratory disorder that causes short-

technique has been categorized under five basic categories: Mantra meditation This comprises the Transcendental Meditation techniques, Clinically Standardized Meditation and Relaxation Response. In this process, by repeatedly using a sound or phrase, a person focuses to achieve a state of perfect consciousness.

Mindfulness meditation This form of meditation involves focusing on what you experience while performing the technique like the very flow of your breath. Yoga Here, a person attempts to achieve a state of calmness by combining bodily postures with controlled breathing.

Tai-Chi - A form of Chinese martial arts, the technique is performed using selfpaced series of movements in a slow-graceful manner along with deep breathing.

Qi gong - This involves a combination of medita-

tion, breathing exercise, relaxation and physical movements.

Meditation and pain management: In the past, meditation has been explored extensively for its effects on stress reduction and other similar clinical functions.

However, researchers have now identified another significant health benefit of the technique that suggests that it is actually possible to overcome debilitating pain with the help of meditation. What's more, some of these studies have also suggested that the painrelieving effects of meditation might be even more effective than morphine.

Back in April, 2011, a study by the researchers at the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center indicated that a person can attain at least 40 per ent decrease in pain intensity and 57 per cent in pain unpleasantness merely by practicing these techniques regularly.

This decrease in pain was found to be much higher

than with morphine or other pain-relieving drugs.

With the help of magnetic resonance imaging, the brain activity of study participants after meditation demonstrated how the technique increased the activity of certain areas which are responsible for pain perception.

Despite such findings, scientists were unable to ascertain the actual mechanism of this phenomenon until now. According to a recent research published at the Brain Research Bulletin, investigators from Harvard, MIT and Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a possible answer. They suggested that the explanation probably lies in alpha waves manipulation in the brain.

Furthermore, they explained that by practicing the techniques of mindfulness meditation for a period of eight-weeks or above, you will be able to control the activity of these brain waves.

Diabetes is a very serious ailment and it can cause numerous health complications. When people have diabetes, their bodies fail to produce insulin or produce very little insulin.

It is also related to issues like vision problems, high blood pressure, heart ailments and strokes. Therefore it is important to know how you can prevent diabetes.

Being overweight or being older may predispose you to diabetes. The common reasons for Diabetes to occur are age, family history, ethnicity weight, activity level, smoking, high blood pressure and weight loss.

"While Type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune disease where the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting 85-90% of all people . It's also known as late-onset diabetes, characterized by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficien-

Healthy foods to fight blood pressure

ness of breath, coughing and chest discomfort, results from changes in the airways that lead to the lungs.

It affects 18.7 million adults and 7.0 million children in the US alone, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Normally, humans have few mucus-producing cells. Those suffering from asthma, however, have an elevated number of these cells lining the tubes that lead to the lungs.

"The overabundance of mucus plugging the air-

ways combined with hypercontractility of the smooth muscle - when the tubes get really small - make it difficult to move air in or out," Rock said. "A lot of people equate that feeling with breathing through a straw."

Rock and colleagues focused on a calcium-activated chloride channel called TMEM16A. This channel secretes chloride ions, besides regulating biological processes such as neuron firing, gastrointestinal activity and the secretion of sweat and tears.

Here are a few items that you should stock up to reduce your blood pressure levelsFighting blood pressure and sugar levels while craving for food might be a difficult job.Here a few food items that can help you lower your blood pressure levels and keep it at a normal level.

Spinach - Spinach is loaded with magnesium and also contains potassium which are key ingredients for lowering and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. So add more greens

to your daily dish and enjoy a healthy life minus all the pressure.

Dark chocolate - Well, this certainly does not mean that you binge upon chocolate. But it is found that eating about 25-30 calories a day (flavanols are present in dark chocolates) can lower the blood pressure levels in your body.Skimed milk - It provides calcium, potassium and Vitamin D which together help in reducing blood pressure levels and keep your body healthy.

cy", informs Dr. Shreepad Khedekar, Specialist in Genetic Chronic Diseases, Imperial Clinics.

While Type 1 diabetes can be treated with insulin and control through the use of glucose meters. Type 2 diabetes may be treated by dietary changes, exercise and/or tablets. Insulin injections may later be required.

There is no cure for diabetes. Treatment involves medicines, diet, and exercise to control blood sugar and prevent symptoms and problems Dr. Shreepad Khedekar, Specialist in Genetic Chronic Diseases, Imperial Clinics gives quick tips to control diabetes: Get physical Exercise can help you: Lose weight Lower your blood sugar Boosts your sensitivity to insulin — which helps keep your blood sugar within a normal range Research shows that both aerobic exercise and resistance training can help

control diabetes, but the greatest benefit comes from a fitness program that includes both.

Get plenty of fiber It's rough, it's tough — and it may help you: Reduce your risk of diabetes by improving your blood sugar control Lower your risk of heart diseasePromote weight loss by helping you feel fullFoods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds.Go for whole grainsAlthough it's not clear why, whole grains

may reduce your risk of diabetes and help maintain blood sugar levels. Try to make at least half your grains whole grains. Many foods made from whole grains come ready to eat, including various breads, pasta products and many cereals. Look for the word "whole" on the package and among the first few items in the ingredient list.

Lose extra weight If you're overweight, diabetes prevention may hinge on weight loss. Every pound you lose can improve your health.

Facts about fad diets

Dieting is an age old way to lose weight but is fad diet the best way to lose those extra pounds?

When you want to lose weight fast there is just one question on your mind...

What works fast? Many of us are struggling to lose weight fast. Many of us want to shed those extra pounds so that we look and feel good for that special function or occasion and we want to fit into our old denims or that skimpy dress we saw in the mall. If any of these cases are true then we go on a spree to find that perfect diet plan that works wonders for us. It can be confusing in today's weight loss world to find that perfect product or that diet plan that works fast.One of the most common diet plans are the fad diets. These kinds of diets are all over the place with things such as detox diet, grapefruit diet and cabbage soup diet which promise instant weight loss. So if you need to lose

weight fast in a short span of time then yes these diet plans work fast. But their long term effect is not very good to lose a lot of weight in a short span of time.

Loosing too much weight too quickly can affect your health by putting a lot of stress on your internal organs. Then there is also the case where you lose weight rather quickly only to realize that you've put it all back on.

This happens because when you finish with your fad diet you go back to your old eating habits that

caused the weight gain in the first place.

So, it is much better to lose weight in the long term by following a healthy and varied meal plan.

Fad diets have a lot of negative drawbacks also.

So, if you decide to go on a fad diet on a short term basis in order to shed a few pounds then be ready for some serious medical conditions.

These diets have been known to cause some nasty side effects such as headaches, diarrhea and dizzy spells.

7 SRINAGAR Thursday, July 18, 2013

Kashmir Thunder Tuesday 25 . 06 . 2013

NATION

Ishrat Jahan case: MoS Home dismisses reports of IB-CBI clash New Delhi: A day after Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde chose to stay quiet on Ishrat Jahan’s alleged terror links, the Minister of State in Home Ministry, RPN Singh, has dismissed reports of infighting between the Intelligence Bureau and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

“I think it’s playing out more in the press. I think the CBI and IB are premier institutions of this country and political parties and people in the press should not try to dismantle the kind of premier institutions they have been.

They are very serious organisations and they are not mud slinging at each other, but I think it continues to be played out in the newspapers

and television channels when there is not even an iota of truth in what you’re trying to portray,” Singh replied when asked if the Ishrat Jahan case has vitiated the atmosphere and it seems the IB and CBI are fighting against each other.

Ishrat Jahan, a 19year-old Mumbai college student, was allegedly killed by Gujarat police in a fake encounter in 2004 along with three other people.

Earlier, Congress General Secretary and spokesperson Digvijaya Singh had asked the Home Ministry to set the record straight on whether Ishrat was involved in terror related activities as claimed by Headley.

The Home Ministry had submitted two con-

trasting affidavits on Ishrat’s alleged terror links between 2009 and 2012. There is also confusion on a leaked portion of an NIA report submitted to the Home Ministry on whether Ishrat knew other alleged terrorists and their involvement in terror related activities.

The encounter killings of four people Ishrat

Pirates hijack oil tanker with 24 Indian crew off Gabon coast MUMBAI: An oil-chemical tanker with an all Indian crew of 24 has been hijacked off the coast of the West African nation Gabon, officials said here today.

MV Cotton, the Maltaflagged vessel, was taken over by suspected pirates 15 miles off the Gentil Port between 0100 hrs and 0200 hrs local time yesterday, a statement from V Ships, the crew manager for the vessel owned by a Turkish company, told PTI. The 2007-built ship was awaiting berthing in the Gulf of Guinea at the time of the hijack, they said. The vessel has a gross tonnage of 23,248 tonne and is 184 meter long.

Officials at the Directorate General of Shipping confirmed the incident but said they are awaiting further details.

Information on the cargo which the ship was carrying and the voyage details were not immediately available.

Company officials did not confirm if any demand for ransom has been made by the suspected sea brigands.

“Safety is the absolute priority of VShips and every effort is being made to secure the safe return of the crew,” the statement said.

Company officials informed the Turkish government and the Navy as well as other agencies and embassies about the hijack, it said.

According to experts, the waters off the coast of the African nation are not known to be pirate-infested even though there have been some stray incidents off the coast of Nigeria.

and three men - Pranesh Pillai (alias Javed Gulam Sheikh), Amjad Ali Rana and Zeeshan Johar took place on an empty road stretch between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar in Gujarat. On June 11, 2004, Ishrat left for Nashik with Javed. It’s not known how she came to Gujarat on June 15 when she was killed with Pil-

lai, Rana and Johar.

According to the CBI chargesheet filed in an Ahmedabad court on July 3, the four were killed in a fake encounter. According to the chargesheet Ishrat Jahan and three others were kept in illegal confinement, put on tranquilizer before they were killed in cold blood on June 15, 2004.

Left Front, which had been ruling the state since 1977.However, the Trinamool broke up with the Congress in September last year and the two parties are contesting the rural body elections separately.

Banerjee, who started off her political

Coal scam: SC allows CBI to remove tainted Vivek Dutt from probe team New Delhi: The Supreme Court has allowed the central bureau of Investigation to remove former Chief Investigating Officer Vivek Dutt from its probe team in the coal scam. This came after the CBI filed a chargesheet on Tuesday which named Dutt, who is currently in judicial custody in a corruption case.

Dutt was caught taking a bribe of Rs 15 lakh on May 17. A CBI team nabbed him in an operation that was personally supervised by the agency's director Ranjit Sinha.

The CBI had said that a businessman, Dinesh Gupta, had a land dispute and a cheating case was registered against him at Amar Colony police station in New Delhi and Dutt used to pressurise the Delhi Police officials, who were investigating the cheating case, to quash the FIR and for this he had demanded Rs 15 lakh from Gupta.

CBI investigating officer Vivek Dutt was caught taking a bribe of Rs 15 lakh on May 17.

Dutt had, however, claimed innocence and alleged a conspiracy has been hatched to keep him out of the Supreme Court-monitored coalgate probe team.

Supreme Court turns down plea to reduce juvenile age from 18 to 16 years

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has refused to reduce the age for being considered juvenile to 16 years and has said that even those accused of heinous crimes, but below 18 years of age, will continue to be tried by a juvenile board under the Juvenile Justice Act, and not by a regular trial court.

The top court was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by an advocate seeking an amendment to the existing Juvenile law to allow those below 18 to be punished under regular law if they are charged with serious crimes.

“We uphold the provisions of Juvenile Act. Interference is not necessary,” said a bench headed by Chief Justice Altamas Kabir.

The petition was filed

after the brutal gang-rape and murder of a 23-year-old medical student in a moving bus in Delhi in December last year.

One of the six men accused of the horrific crime was a minor when the incident happened. He has been tried by the juvenile board and if found guilty, faces a maximum punishment of three years in a correction home.

The student’s family has demanded equal punishment for the juvenile and the adults accused - they want them handed the death penalty. The police have alleged that the minor was the “most brutal” of the six accused.

The horrific assault triggered massive public protests and a debate on

Given injection by rickshaw-puller, baby dies in Uttar Pradesh hospital Ballia, Uttar Pradesh: At an understaffed government hospital in Uttar Pradesh, people are at the mercy of untrained sweepers and rickshaw pullers - a shocking state of affairs exposed after a baby died on Tuesday, moments after being administered an injection by a rickshaw puller.

The seven-month-old baby, Ajay, died in the emergency ward of the Balia district hospital in eastern Uttar Pradesh, where sweepers and a rickshaw puller are bizarrely asked to fill in for tasks meant only for trained medical professionals.Little Ajay was critical and suffering from septicemia. The surgeon treating him had recommended a dose of a life-saving drug “Primacord” and asked the pharmacist to administer it.

Instead, the pharmacist allegedly passed on the job to Raju, a rickshaw puller usually at the hospital for odd jobs

like ferrying bodies.

The rickshaw puller is seen injecting a child in disturbing TV visuals. Uttar Pradesh Health Minister Ahmed Hasan told NDTV that a high level probe has been ordered. “It is a very unfortunate incident,” he said.This is the same hospital, where last year, a sweeper was caught on camera stitching up the wounds of a child. The doctor on duty at the emergency ward had been suspended at the time.The Chief Medical Superintendent of the hospital, KP Singh, denied that the visuals were of the same baby

Was a mistake to align with Congress for 2011 polls: Mamata Banerjee However, the Trinamool broke up with the Congress in September last year and the two parties are contesting the rural body elections separately.Stressing she had made a mistake by going with the Congress in the 2011 West Bengal Assembly polls, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Tuesday attacked the Congress for “colluding” with the CPI-M to defeat her Trinamool Congress in the ongoing panchayat elections.

“It was a mistake to tie up with the Congress in the assembly polls two years back.

We would have got 293 of the 294 seats had we not joined hands with the Congress,” Banerjee, the Trinamool supremo, said at a panchayat poll rally in Amta of South 24 Parganas district.

The Trinamool-Congress-Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist) combine won 227 seats in the 2011 polls to oust the

DAILY ZABARWAN TIMES

career with the Congress, said she had left the party “out of shame” in 1998 and formed the Trinamool.

“I had left the Congress out of shame as its leaders were working as the agents of the Communist Party of India-Marxist.

Had I not done so, the CPI-M would have never lost power in the state,” she said.

Coming down heavily on the Congressled United Progressive Alliance central government, she decried the regular hike in prices of petroleum products.Claiming that the Congress always used the Central Bureau of Investigation to silence those protesting against its policies, Banerjee challenged it to rope in all “central agencies against me”.“Even if nobody protests against the central government’s policies, I shall single-handedly raise my voice,” she asserted.

Uttar Pradesh Cabinet expansion tomorrow Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav will expand his cabinet tomorrow, official sources said today.

"Preparations for cabinet expansion have started at Raj Bhawan and it will he held tomorrow," a senior official told PTI. With removal of Raghuraj Pratap Singh alias Raja Bhaiya and Raja Ram Pandey from the cabinet earlier, four seats are now vacant in the cabinet.

There are presently 56 ministers in the cabinet and the number could go upto 60.

While Raja Bhaiya resigned after his name cropped up in Kunda Deputy SP Zia-ul-Haq murder case, Mr Pandey was axed after he allegedly made sexist remarks against a woman officer in Sultanpur.

According to party sources, two state ministers could be elevated to cabinet ministers, while speculations are rife about re-entry of Raja Bhaiya in the cabinet.

Meanwhile, SP is holding a meeting of party MLAs, office bearers and Lok Sabha candidates to review poll preparedness and approve name of ministers.

Ninety Nine pistols meant for criminals seized by police, two arrested In a major catch, the Delhi Police has seized 99 pistols meant for various criminal gangs operating in and around the national capital.

Two men--one identified by his second name Mishra and Firoz Alam--were arrested from Sonia Vihar area here last evening along with the cache of weapons concealed in the car used by them, a senior police officer said tody.

“The pistols were kept in cavities created behind the headlights of the car. The weapons were made in Bihar’s Munger district. The two arrested persons also hail from the same district,” he said.

Munger has lately emerged

Indian general slashed in ‘Amritsar revenge attack’

So far, more than 80,000 people have been evacuated to safety.Stranded people wait for their turn to be rescued by a helicopter after heavy rains in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. - ReutersIn the wake of the worst natural disaster in the country this year, Uttarakhand still lies wounded from the devastating floods and landslides that occured in the past week.The entire country suffered a huge loss as pilgrims from all over were visiting the worst affected Badrinath and Kedarnath areas.

The Indian Armed Forces (IAF) has put to use some of the best military skill-sets to great effect in the flash-flood affected zones of Uttarakhand and rescued hundreds of fatigued and exhausted stranded tourists almost seven days after the tragedy struck the Kedar Valley.The Army on Sunday evacuated all 1000 stranded pilgrims in the mountain folds around Jungle Chatti in Kedar Valley.

The progressive effort of the IAF for 'Óp Rahat' shows a total of 1088 sorties flown, 8222 persons airlifted and about 1,48,550

who died, but did not deny the shocking fact that a rickshaw puller was giving injections, which may have caused the baby’s death.“We are investigating what happened. The baby, suffering from measles for days, was admitted on Monday.

He was referred to the IMS hospital at Banaras Hindu University, but his parents brought him to our emergency ward when he became extremely critical”, Mr Singh said.The hospital is short of at least 80 doctors, nurses and paramedical staff, hardly any justification, however, for such criminal negligence.

The district magistrate has also started a probe, but there have been no arrests so far, not even a case registered.

The rickshaw puller, who has been jailed in the past for petty theft, told reporters that he had been coming to the hospital for 15-20 years.

whether the age for being considered a juvenile should be brought down to ensure that the minor was tried along with the adult accused.

The Justice Verma commission set up to suggest changes to make laws on rape more tough, too had refuse to propose that the age of a juvenile be brought down.

The Juvenile Justice Board hearing the Delhi gang-rape case is expected to deliver its verdict on the role of the accused minor next week.

kg load dropped /landed.

The state's disaster management and mitigation minister Yashpal Arya Uttarakhand denied reports that quoted him as saying that he feared the toll was nearly 5,000. “The enormity of disaster is so big that the toll could be more than the present figure.

However, the picture is likely to be more clear in the coming days” he said.* More than 500 people are stuck at Gaurikund, but efforts to bring them back to safety had to be aborted following heavy rains in the region, an army official said.

Eight choppers of the Indian Air Force (IAF) were pulled back from rescue operations following heavy rains and inclement weather in Devprayag, which made flying dangerous and at places impossible.

Owing to heavy rains water levels have once again risen in Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers in the Rudraprayag region. Other parts in the state, including Pithoragarh, Nainital, Champawat, Udhamsinghnagar and Haldwani, have also received widespread rains on Monday.

as the hub of contraband weapons in the country, with pistols manufactured in the illegal factories there even founding their way to Indian Mujahideen terrorists, police sources said.

Earlier, investigators had recovered illegal weapons made in Munger from the five persons arrested in connection with Pune blasts. They had alleg-

edly told the police that they had bought the weapons from Munger.

On terrorists going for country-made weapons, an official had claimed, “A country-made pistol manufactured in Munger was as good as a sophisticated one.”

According to him, 130 pistols made in Munger were seized by the Delhi Police last year while the figure for this year stands at about 60.

Costing somewhere between Rs 15,000 and Rs 20,000, there is a demand for Munger weapons in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, the national capital and adjoining areas and Bangladesh.

BS Bassi to take over as Delhi Police chief on August 1 New Delhi: Bhim Sain Bassi, the special commissioner of police in charge of administration, will be the new chief of Delhi Police.

He will succeed Neeraj Kumar who retires July 31.

Bassi, 57, will take over Aug 1, according to a home ministry order issued Tuesday. A 1977 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Arunachal PradeshGoa-Mizoram-Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre, Bassi was the front-runner for the post. He previously headed the Delhi Traffic Police and was also Goa's director general of police.

He has also been the special commissioner (vigilance), joint commissioner (southern range) and additional commissioner (northern range). Among those who were considered contenders for the post were Kanwaljit Deol, who is now with the National Human

Rights Commission, Director General (Prisons) Vimla Mehra, and 1977 batch IPS officer Ajay Chaddha.

Neeraj Kumar, a 1976 batch IPS officer, took charge of Delhi Police from BK Gupta on July 1 last year.His biggest challenge followed the December 2012 gang rape of a young woman that unleashed unprecedented mass protests

in the capital. The woman died in Singapore.

Delhi Police came under widespread criticism after the gang rape. All the suspects in the case were arrested.After the December incident, and again following the rape of a fiveyear-old girl in April this year, there were demands for Neeraj Kumar's resignation.