Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 25 January

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SATURDAY

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25 January | 2014 | 23 Rabi-Al-Awwal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

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VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 25 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)

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

Governor inspects arrangements for upcoming Indian Science Congress at JU See More On Page 10

Beats Federer in Australian Open

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See More On Page 06

Faced racial discrimination in America

See More On Page 07

Salah: best remedy for depression

See More On Page 06

Pathribal Fake Encounter Car lifters who escaped from police custody rearrested

Srinagar, Jan 24: (GNS) Police on Friday arrested the three car lifters, who had escaped from police custody on Tuesday night prompting the higher officials to order a probe and suspension an official for dereliction in duties.

Official sources told GNS that the three car lifters Mohsin Khan of Sheikhpora, Budgam, Haroon Najar and Reyaz Ahmad, both residents of Zaldagar Srinagar were arrested from Maisuma locality of Srinagar by police, three days after they fled from the Soura police station. A fresh case has been registered against the trio.

The trio were facing charges of vehicle thefts across central Kashmir. Following their sensational escape, higher authorities had ordered a probe besides ordering the suspension of the Munshi. (GNS)

DGP takes stock of security arrangements for RD celebrations in Valley Srinagar, Jan 24: Director General of Police (DGP), Ashok Prasad, chaired a high level meeting here today to review the security arrangements in connection with Republic Day celebrations.

The meeting was attended by senior police, para-military, intelligence and civil administration officers.

The DGP impressed upon all officers to devise a comprehensive mechanism to defeat nefarious designs of terror outfits so as to keep sustained peace in the State. He said that greater synergy among different agencies could yield better results on this front. People’s cooperation would help the forces to achieve the desired goal, for which all security agencies needed to be effective and refined as well.

The DGP was informed by the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Shalender Kumar, Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Zone), A. G. Mir See DGP On Page 11..

Inside story New LA Complex: Speaker for double shift work to ensure timely completionaa JAMMU, JANUARY 24: Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Mr. Mubarak Gul has directed the executing agency J&K Project Construction Corporation (JKPCC) to start double shift work on the upcoming Rs 104.44 crore new Legislative Complex to ensure its early completion .This direction was given by the Speaker while inspecting the pace of

See More On Pg 10

On Edit Page Strong ties in the best interest of India and Pakistan The ups and downs in Indo-Pak relations have created chaos and confusion in the sub continent. This has also resulted in wide spread disappointment amongst the people of the two countries who want better understanding and better relations so that people to people contact is increased and business activities get a boost. However despite several confidence building measures the ties between India and Pakistan have not been as strong as anybody

See More On Pg 09

WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

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

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

Partly cloudy sky. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 07°C & -2°C respectively.

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TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM MINIMUM SUNSET ON(FRIDAY) SUNRISE ON (SATURDAY)

4.90 0.9 0C 05:55PM 07:33 AM

Army closes 14 year old case Omar disappointed, says will consult law authorities Srinagar, Jan 24: Leaders from across the political divide in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday expressed strong disappointment over army’s closure of pathribal fake encounter case.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday expressed disappointment over Army's decision to close the Pathribhal fake encounter case saying that state law authorities will be asked to examine options to address this "serious" matter.

“Extremely disappointed with the decision of the army regarding Pathribal. Will ask the Law Dept & Advocate General to examine options. A matter as serious as Pathribal can't be closed or wished away like this more so with the findings of the CBI so self evident,” Omar tweeted.

In its closure report filed and conveyed to a judicial magistrate here, the army has said evidence recorded could not establish prime facie charges against any of the five accused persons. “The evidence recorded could not establish a prime facie case against any of the accused persons,” a defense spokesman has said in Jammu.

However, the army has said it was established that Pathribal encounter was a joint operation by police and the Army based on specific intelligence.

Pertinently, in the same shootout, the CBI had in 2006 indicted five arm men for staging the encounter while exonerating the state police which was part of the operation. CBI in its charge sheet has declared the encounter as a cold blooded murder of five civilians.CBI had filed its See Army on Page 11..

NC still indecisive about pre-poll alliance Srinagar, Jan 24: Stating that the decision about forging of Pre-poll alliance with the state Congress is still reserved by the party, National Conference (NC) Friday stated that it has given the mandate to its chairman for taking a final call over the issue.

Pertinently, the state Congress activists led by the JKPCC chief Saif-ud-din Soz met Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi at Delhi, urging him not to go for any alliance with any regional party of the state for the forth coming parliamentary polls.

“If the Congress activists have given their opinion about the alliance, same has been done by our activists here but the same cannot be termed final. Everyone has right to express his opinion about these issues but we must wait for the high com-

mand,” said senior leader NC and parliament member Mehboob Beigh.

He stated further that the activists act as the back bone of every party and that it is must that the party leadership should listen to them.

“We got reports from all the areas and all our workers put forward different opinions over the issue of prepoll alliance.”

Beigh added that the final call over the issue of prepoll alliance is still reserved and that the party has given full authority to its president to take final decision.

“We recently had called our working committee meet and whatever was discussed there will be taken into account before the final decision about the forging of any alliance will be taken up by the party’s leadership.”

(KNS)

Never expected justice from Army’s court: Pathribal victim families Srinagar, Jan 24: The families of Pathribal fake encounter victims on Friday described army’s closure report ‘disappointing’ saying that they had never expected any justice delivery after the case was handed over to army court.

Abdul Rashid Khan, son of Jumma Khan (one of the five civilians killed) told KNS: “We are extremely disappointed not that we expected any sort of justice from the army’s court but for the collapse of justice delivery mechanism in the country.”

Jumma Khan, around 50-years-old man of Brari Angan was one of the five civilians killed in the Pathribal fake encounter. “I want to ask the people at the helm that were the CBI findings, DNA tests, Supreme Court observations and above all the bodies of our families wrong? We had made our See Families On Page 11..

Why no shutdown calls on Pandit massacres? KPPS

What action was taken

by Omar against culprits: Tickoo

Srinagar, Jan 24: The Kashmir Pandit Sangharash Sammitee (KPSS) has asked the separatists as to why they did not extend any shutdown calls against killings of Kashmiri Pandits. The Kashmiri non migrant Pandit organization has also asked chief minister to come up with a statement on action taken against those who according to KPSS are responsible for the ‘forced exodus’ of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley.

In a statement issued to KNS, Sanjay Tickoo president of KPSS has also asked chief minister Omar Abdullah to show what action he has taken against the culprits of killings of Pandits and those responsible for the ‘forcible exodus’ of the community.

ious States, including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Chattisgarh,

Manipur, See PM On PAge 11..

Vitally essential to empower women, youth: Rahul Gandhi New Delhi Jan 24: Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi has asserted that it is vitally essential to empower the women and youth along with the local bodies’ representatives in order to transform our country into a superpower.

He was interacting with the elected party representatives of local bodies ahead of poll preparations at the brain-storming session at Sewagram near Wardha today.

Jammu, Jan 24: Rejecting the army’s closure of Pathribal case as miscarriage of justice, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Friday said the developments like this make restoration of credibility in institutions among the people of Jammu and Kashmir even more difficult.

In a statement issued to KNS, the party patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said the army’s decision is a huge setback to the efforts at reconciliation and delivery of justice, which is prerequisite for building trust. He said while there have been many instances in which standards of justice applied to incidents taking place in J&K have been found short of the universal standards applied in rest of the country, Pathribal atrocity stood out See PDP On Page 11..

Remembering Wandhama massacre

PM gives away 2013 National Bravery awards to 25 children New Delhi, Jan 24: Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh gave away National Bravery awards for the year 2013 to children from various parts of the country in New Delhi today.

The award is given for showing exceptional grit and bravery in adverse situation. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Singh told the award winners that they are an inspiration to both their own generation and the nation.

UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Women and Child Development Minister Krishna Tirath were also present on the occasion.AIR correspondent reports, 25 children from var-

Miscarriage of justice: PDP

The special emphasis was laid on the need for empowerment of the women, who constitute 50 per cent of our population, by providing reservation in the State Legislative Assemblies and Parliament as well.

Secondly, the demand to increase the opportunities for employment and self-employment for the youth as per their potential and See Rahul On Page 11..

“Massacres and fake encounters have become part of J&K since the eruption of political turmoil and armed insurgency in the State. Every massacre and fake encounter is mourned by public at large and a call for shut down is proposed by the Separatist Camp to express grief and resistance against these acts,” Tickoo has said in his statement.

He has added that during the last two decades not a single separatist, who run the resistance camps in the State, have ever extended a call for shut down against the ‘massacres of Kashmiri Pandits’ in Kashmir valley. “It also shows some real faces who have actually done these heinous crimes against minuscule population of Kashmir Valley.”

Tickoo has said that on January 25, 1998, ‘a massacre was executed in which 23 Kashmiri Pandits including a 2 years boy were killed at Wandhama, Ganderbal.

See KPPS On Page 11..

Till Army has AFSPA, Pathribal encounters are unstoppable: Mirwaiz Srinagar, Jan 24 (KNS): Chairman Hurriyat Conference(M) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq while describing the closure of Pathribal fake encounter case as, “murder of justice by the sword of AFSPA” Friday stated that the Army’s decision has once again proved our stand that such type of inquiry commissions and court martial’s are created to buy time and to protect the culprits.

In a statement to KNS, Mirwaiz said till Army and government See Mirwaiz On Page 11..

Cabinet meet deferred

CM threatens to resign

Srinagar, Jan 24: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah threatened to resign during a cabinet meeting at Jammu on Friday over the failure of cabinet sub-committee to submit its report on the creation of new administrative units in the state.

As the meeting started in Jammu, sources said, Omar told Deputy Chief Minister who heads the CSC for report about the new administrative See CM On Page 11..

Swiss skier dies while skiing in Gulmarg DM Baramulla appointed as Enquiry Officer Srinagar, Jan 24: A skier from Switzerland was killed while skiing in world famous ski resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.

Reports reaching GNS said that Roy Arino, 60, of Switzerland was skiing along with five of his friends at the slopes of Kangdoori in Gulmarg this afternoon when he came under a self See Swiss On PAge 11..

Govt panel recommends effective freedom for Prasar Bharati

New Delhi, January 24: Suggesting that Prasar Bharati is not really autonomous as it should be, a committee appointed by the govt has recommended amendment to the Act of 1990 to give effective freedom to the public broadcaster with administrative and financial powers.

The committee, headed by technocrat Sam Pitroda, suggested developing a funding mechanism for Prasar Bharati to address the need for autonomy with financial accountability.

It also sought to give the organisation the power to frame rules and regulations for its employees without requiring government approval as it recommended absorption of

government employees as full-time staff of Prasar Bharati and hiring skilled professionals.

The report, presented to Informa-

tion and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari in New Delhi on Friday, See Govt On Page 11..

AAP govt to make all contractual posts permanent New Delhi, January 24: All contractual posts in Delhi govt will be made permanent; it was announced on Friday as Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal constituted a high-level committee to formulate policies and guidelines in this regard.

In a major relief to over one lakh contractual workers, the government also put a stop on removal of temporary employees working in various departments till the process of recruitment based on new criteria is not completed.

The high-level 13-member committee is being headed by Chief Secretary S K Sri-

vastava and comprises of two retired IAS officers, Prakash Chandra and Prafful Karketa, besides secretaries of finance, law and urban development departments among others.

The committee has been given the responsibility formulate the policy in this regard within one month.

"The committee will take all the legal, technical and financial aspects into account in formalising the policy and finalising the recruitment process. A time frame will be decided upon by the committee to regularise these posts.

"Till the time recruitment process based

on the new policy is not completed, those employees working on contract basis at present would not be removed," Education and Urban Development Minister Manish Sisodia said in New Delhi on Friday.

There are over one lakh contractual employees working in various government departments at present.

As far as recruitment process is concerned, focus will be on age relaxation and work experience in addition to skills of the employees. The data regarding contract workers See AAP On Page 11..

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Srinagar, Saturday 25 January 2014

From the front page

Army charge sheet against Brigadier Ajay Saxena, Lt Col Brajendra Pratap Singh, Major Sourabh Sharma, Major Amit Saxena and Subedar Idrees Khan in 2006 for killing five civilians and later dubbing them as foreign militants. These five civilians were killed days after 35 Sikhs were killed in Chattisinghpora village, nearer to Pathribal. (KNS)

Act on CBI report, punish the guilty: AMM Srinagar, Jan 24 (KNS): Stating that the Army’s closure report in Pathribal case exonerating its accused officials is in contradiction to the CBI findings, Awami Mutahida Mahaz has demanded a swift action on the CBI report in which the army officials were indicted for the cold blooded murder of five civilians.

The AMM is of the opinion that army’s decision to close the case drawn on hasty conclusions not only deprive the justice to the victims of human rights violations but further erode the credibility of the institutions of probity and fairness.

“The closure report has created a lot of confusion as the CBI has already established a case against the army officials describing the killing of five civilians at Pathribal as a cold blooded murder. In such circumstances, we are of the opinion that the government should without any delay act on the CBI findings and punish the guilty.” (KNS)

Closing Pathribal case another shame for Indian democracy: Er Rashid

Srinagar, Jan 24 (KNS): Awami Ittihaad Party (AIP) has said that Kashmiris have no reason to celebrate 65th republic day of India as not only the real democracy in Jammu and Kashmir is yet a distinct dream but GoI has very often disgraced and insulted the democratic institutions in the state.

Clean chit to army means justifying genocide of Kashmiris: Malik Srinagar, Jan 24 (KNS): “Clean chit by Indian army to its killer officers who murdered innocent Kashmiri’s at Pathribal in year 2000 is like justifying the genocide of Kashmiri’s. Killing civilians in the name of foreign militants and then giving killers clean chit is an ugly stain on the Indian democracy,” this was stated by the chairman of Jammu Kashmir liberation front Mohammad Yasin Malik while speaking to media today.

According to a statement issued to KNS, Malik said that on 26th march 2000 Indian army killed 5 innocents after abducting them from their houses and dubbed then as foreign militants who were involved in massacre of Sikh brethren at Chitisinghpora.

Family mind the day this case was handed over to the army court that we will never get justice till our death,” Rashid Khan, who is a class fourth government employee, told KNS. Ghulam Nabi Malik whose elder brother Mohammad Yousuf Malik resident of Halan Verinag was killed in the encounter told KNS: “We have already expressed our opinion that army court will never help us. It is because that how can we expect justice from killers of our family members. We had requested that the trial be conducted by a civil court which did not happen. So we were mentally prepared that there will be no justice in our case through army court proceedings.”

The family of Bashir Ahmad Bhat another civilian resident of Halan Verinag who also got killed in the Pathribal encounter says that army has dashed all its hopes of justice and fair-play.

“We were told to repose trust on army court but it was propaganda and nothing more than that. They have dashed all our hopes for justice in the matter,” Ghulam Rasool Bhat elder brother of Bashir told KNS. All these families believe that a well planned Propaganda was presented to influence the people at the time of Pathribal encounter that all the five civilians who were killed were foreign militants and the same was being repeated today to exonerate army officials.(KNS)

PDP even among them for its cruelty and context.

This, he said, could have been a test case for our institutions to rise above other considerations and uphold the supreme principles of justice to open a new chapter of reconciliation in Kashmir, but it has clearly been wasted.

Recalling the 2000 incident, Mufti said not only were five innocent persons killed in cold blood and dubbed as terrorists to cover-up another atrocity at Chattisinghpora, but even innocent people demanding justice were shot down by an insensitive government at Brakpora.

He said the PDP president, Mehbooba Mufti had been the first to reach Pathribal, in spite of the government trying to prevent her from doing so. The people of the area had demonstrated and the National Conference government had used its usual tool- force-to silence them, resulting in more deaths.

Mufti said there was an urgent need for taking bold initiatives and changing mind sets to ensure justice in J&K, but, unfortunately, there has been a huge deficit on that score. “While there is a genuine outrage at Khirki incident in New Delhi, the opposite of it is seen in J&K, where all institutions, from the local police station to the highest court in the land, have for the last 15 years not been able to deliver justice or provoke a national debate, even though five innocent citizens of the same country were picked up like lambs for slaughter,” he said.

The PDP patron said: “The challenge before us is to end double standards when it comes to enforcing law in J&K and other parts of the country. The sooner we do that, the easier it will be to resolve Kashmir tangle.”

However, Mufti said the incidents as in Pathribal are continuing to take place and the state government thinks its role does not go beyond shedding some cosmetic tears. He said the recent example was the killing of four innocent persons allegedly by BSF in Gool, last year, where the chief minister pronounced a verdict even before the enquiry declaring the BSF innocent. Though, an enquiry has been promised into the Gool incident and a court martial ordered in Macchil fake encounters, the army verdict in Pathribal has further reduced the confidence level of people in any such exercises. (KNS)

Mirwaiz forces enjoys protection under black laws like AFSPA, Pathribal type of incidents cannot be stopped from happening.

KPPS 16 years have passed when this massacre was executed by unscrupulous elements present in the Kashmiri Society nothing has been done by any Camp present in the Kashmir Valley whether Main-stream or Separatist to book the culprits for the same.’

“On the contrary all the cases pertaining to the Kashmiri Pandits killing have been closed down for different reasons which shows that racist elements are present in the administration which pre-

Zabarwan Times

vent them to perform their duties in un-biased manner,” he has added.

Tickoo has said that it is also an irony that the people from the community living outside Kashmir Valley observe 19th of January every year as “Holocaust Day”, a day in remembrance that how a Kashmiri Pandits was deprived from the right being Kashmiri and was forced to choose exodus from the Valley, do not observe any of the days including the days when massacres was executed on the Kashmiri Pandits who chose to stay back.

“This shows that they have disowned us and their conscience of concern have seized with respect to left out populace who stayed back.”

Tickoo has said that KPSS expects that Omar will come up with a statement as what his government has done with respect to book the culprits who killed Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley which led to the forced exodus of the Community from Kashmir. (KNS)

AAP

CM

DGP

units. To the reply that it was yet to be completed, Omar Abdullah, sources told GNS, deferred the meeting till 31st of this month.

He said that if the report was not submitted before the cabinet by the next meeting that he will resign, the sources added. (GNS)

that all required arrangements had been put in place for the security of the venues including Bakshi Stadium, where the major function would be held on Republic Day. Efficient police band bust in and around the venues would be made to ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations across the valley.

The DGP was accompanied by Additional Director General of Police (Coordination), P. L. Gupta and Inspector General of Police (CID), Dr. B. Srinivas during his visit to valley.

Swiss triggered avalanche. While two of his friends were discharged after first aid, and three others were hospitalized, Arino had died due to severe head injuries. John Falkner was the guide of the six member skiing team.

“A skier from Switzerland was killed in the self triggered avalanche. He had received serious head injuries. The post-mortem was conducted at Srinagar. Besides it, three skiers were hospitalized, while two were allowed to go to the hotel after first aid,” Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ajay Sharma told GNS. He said that a rescue team of tourism and police instantly reached the spot and rescued five of the trapped skiers. He said that Kangdoori had 5 feet of snow where the foreign tourists were skiing. Meanwhile, Divisional Commissioner Shailender Kumar has appointed District Magistrate, Baramulla as enquiry Officer to ascertain the cause of Death of a Swiss National Arno Roy who lost his life while skiing at Gulmarg.

The District Magistrate, Baramulla has been asked to complete the enquiry and submit the report within 5 days to the government.

Meanwhile, Medico Legal formalities of the deceased are being completed and the Swiss embassy has been informed about the unfortunate incident. (GNS)

PM Madhya Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir won the National Bravery awards. The awardees include nine girls. Five children were awarded posthumously. The award winning children will be part of Republic Day Parade at Rajpath on Sunday.

Govt recommended "amending the Prasar Bharati Act 1990 where necessary so as to impart genuine and effective autonomy to the organisation."

It also called for reorganisation of the Prasar Bharati board to make it a professionally managed body effective in guiding the organisation.

Tewari said his ministry would seriously, studiously and diligently examine the recommendations.

"Enough discussions on these recommendation have taken place and I hope and we start implementing some of them if not all of them. We cannot wait for too long to start implementation," Pitroda told reporters while releasing the report on Friday.

The committee will have a meeting with the Ministry next week to discuss the report and take it ahead, he said.

In its report, the committee suggested complete transfer of ownership and management of assets and human resource to Prasar Bharati to make the organisation administratively and financially autonomous of government.

Significantly, it recommended setting up of a regulatory body to ensure public accountability of the organisation with respect to all content broadcast on its television and radio network.

It should be a sub-committee of the Prasar Bharati board, the committee said.

The Pitroda committee was the fourth one set up by the government last February to review the institutional frame work of Prasar Bharati, its relationship with government and its continuing role as a public broadcaster.

It made the recommendations based on the principle that the organisation's "vision must be to become a genuine public broascaster as against a government broadcaster" as it was supposed to be. "We all agreed that the public broadcaster should look into the public interest and not necessarily at the government interest. Government interests are equally important, it should have flexibility to promote government interest either through separate budget but government should use this infrastructure partly and use other infrastructure," he said.

Batting for its global outreach, the panel suggested that Prasar Bharati should create a world-class broadcasting service benchmarked with the best in the world.

"We need to have a global player...we don't have Indian version of BBC. Today, there is no big source of dependable, reliable, credible news from India," Pitroda said while highlighting on this recommendation. It also recommended monetising of all available archival and other assets of Prasar Bharati to enhance funding.

It further suggested "undertaking a professional study to develop a funding mechanism for Prasar Bharati that addresses the need for autonomy with financial accountability.

"Such a funding model should include government, internal resource mobilisation and private investment".

At this, Pitroda made it clear that this particular recommendation does not mean privatisation of the organisation but it more about sharing resources. He also said the quantum of private investment has not been thought of as yet.

Turning to the issue of content, the committee sought scaling up the allocation of funds for content generation to 50 percent of the total expenditure within a period of 5-7 years and review of all existing channels and content of DD and AIR based on their relevance, output and viability.

The committee encouraged outsourcing of content creation to external producers to attract high quality and diverse programme and creation of a distinct brand identities for different TV and radio channels, defining the content strategy for each.

The committee also strongly batted for the use of social media by Prasar Bharati which can be implemented immediately and defining a social media strategy for the organisation.

It also called for setting up of a 'Prasar Bharati connect' as a third arm of the public service broadcaster independent of DD and AIR and mandate it to manage the various social media initiatives of the organisation. The committee sought expansion of satellite and digital cable TV operations to meet the obligations of public service broadcasting. It also pressed for digitalisation of the present AM radio system to a new radio transmission system after due evaluation, subject to cost and technical availabilities. The committee further suggested greater involvement of the private sector to expand broadcasting market with a view to effectively utilise infrastructure being created by Prasar Bharati.

Focussing on archiving, it recommended setting up of a state-ofart digital archives for consolidating and preserving DD and AIR content. Lastly, it called for creation of a dedicated, multi-platform channels for dissemination of Prasar Bharati's archival products.

Mirwaiz strengthening of local bodies through devolution of more powers to the elected representatives was also stressed at this juncture.

Mr. Gandhi further said that the party has undertaken a novel initiative, under which the selection of candidates for 15 Lok Sabha seats would be nominated after consultation with the representatives of the local bodies.

is being collected at present, Sisodia added.

Sisodia said the number of vacant posts had increased from 18,500 in 2008 to 36,000 till December last year and blamed the previous government for the situation.

"It was never in the priority list of the previous government to fill the vacancies. Going through the data of Delhi Subordinate Services selection Board (DSSB), we have found that there were 18,500 posts lying vacant in 2008 which rose to 36,000 in December last year," Sisodia said.

There has been a constant demand from heads of department regarding more employees.

Contract system is hampering the government's functioning as well as playing with the future of people, he added.

LA issues provisional calendar for upcoming session Jammu, Jan 24 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today issued provisional calendar for the sittings of 11th session of the 11th Legislative Assembly here today.

As per the provisional calendar, starting from February 10, with Governor’s address to Legislature, the House sittings would continue till March 6.

Discussion on Motion of Thanks on Governor’s Address and reply thereto will be held on Feb 11 and Feb 12, the Annual Statement of Expenditure for the year 2014-2015 and Presentation of Supplementary Statement of Expenditure for the year 2013-2014 will be on February 13, General Discussion on Budget will be held on February 15 and Feb 16 ending with reply thereto.

Accordingly, the demands for grants for various departments would be presented from Feb 17 to Feb 24 and the Appropriation Bills and Private Members Bills will be taken up on February 25, March 03 and March 05.

Similarly, Private Members Resolutions will be taken up on February 26 and March 4, while Government Business will be taken up on February 28, and March 06. (KNS)

Amnesty to launch campaign for revocation of AFSPA in J&K

High level team visiting Valley in March

and Kashmir and a high level team is visiting Srinagar in March-April this year.

Sushil Kumar Vilath, South Asia director for AI told KNS on phone from New Delhi that it is difficult to understand why the army closed the Pathribal fake encounter case and that instead of army, the matter should have been investigated by some independent agency.

He stated further that Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in its detailed report on Pathribal encounter charge sheeted five army officers of 7RR. “The persons were Brij Ajay Saxena, Lt. Col Brahendra

Srinagar, Jan 24 (KNS): Stating that the army in Jammu and Kashmir is using AFSPA as a shield for the gross human rights violations ‘being inflicted’ by it in the state, Amnesty International (AI) Friday said it is scheduled to launch a campaign for the revocation of AFSPA from Jammu

Pratap Singh, Maj Saurabh Sharma, Maj Amit Saxena and Subedar Idress Khan.”

Vilath stated further that AI rejects the army’s closure report in Pathribal encounter case. “The same vindicates that the army is using AFSPA as a shield to unleash terror in valley. This law is a lawless law and the same must be condemned on all grounds.”AI South Asian director stated further that the AI team is scheduled to visit Kashmir in the month of MarchApril to explore ways and means that will facilitate revocation of AFSPA from the state. (KNS)

Kichloo reviews ongoing development activities in Kishtwar

JAMMU, JANUARY 24Chairing a high level meeting of District and Sectoral Officers of District Kishtwar,the Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Home, R&B and Housing,Mr.Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo today impressed upon the officers and engineers to work with utmost zeal to achieve 100% developmental targets so that the general masses of this backward district are benefitted.

District Development Commissioner,Kishtwar, Mr. Baseer Ahmed Khan apprised the Minister that out of the approved outlay of Rs. 72.06 crores, an amount of Rs. 44.40 crores has been released with an upto date expenditure of Rs. 23.51 crores. Thus achieving

52.94 % of target.

The Minister took a detailed review of core sectors including PHE, Power, R&B, CAPD and Health. He expressed his concern over the slow pace of work in WSS Naigad. The Minister took strong cognizance of the non-seriousness of contractor in this regard and asked the DC to take strict action against such defaulting contractors. He directed the XEN PHE to start work on water lift scheme without any delay so that water shortage in Kishtwar is solved immediately; status of other schemes was also discussed in detailed.

Regarding R&B, the Minister askedthe Executive Engineer, R&B to immediately repair the damaged roads of

town and periphery and ensure snow clearance on all the link roads. He also laid stress on the early completion of PuranaKadal Bridge in Marwah.

The Minister directed Assistant Director CA&PD to ensure ration supply to far flung areas on priority basis as due to snow fall these areas are facing shortage of food items. He also asked GREF authorities to start work on national highway as early as possible. The Minister directed SP Traffic NH Dr.Haseeb Mughal to ensure that people may not face any difficulty on account of being held up at various place, adding that proper information regarding latest condition of roads be disseminated in advance

to people so that they can plan their travel programmes accordingly. Expressing dismay over shortage of doctors in Marwah, Warwan and Padder belt, the Minister directed the CMO to start recruitment of Doctors immediately. The targets of Rural Development Department under MGNREGA and IAY were also discussed. The Minister also took review of SSA and RAMSA schemes and asked the CEO to ensure availability of teachers in all areas. Taking the review of industries and Commerce department, the Minister directed the GM Industries to complete the formalities of land acquisition on priority to set up approved industrial estates in the district.

Decks cleared for construction of Mubarak Mandi Ropeway, Work to commence soon: Mir Ropeway to attract more tourists in Jammu: Bhalla

Jammu, January 24: The work onmuch awaited Rs 40-crore prestigious Ropeway Project between Mubarak MandiBagh-e-Bahu to Mahamaya hill top will commence very soon.

This was announced by Minister for Tourism, Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir at a high-level meeting chaired by him here today to review the progress made in completing the paper work for initiating the project.

Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture, Mr Raman Bhalla was also present in the meeting. Whereas Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, District Development Commissioner, Jammu, Director Tourism Jammu, Managing Director, Cable Car Corporation and other concerned officers attended the meeting.

Mr. Mir said the Mubarak Mandiropeway on completion, would add another tourist attraction to the city of temples.

He instructed the concerned authorities to complete the spade work so that the foundation of therope way would be laid in the next month.The meeting discussedin detail several issues related to the project. It was informed that all hurdles like environment, wildlife and forest clearances have been obtained and construction work on the project would be taken up soon. The tourism Minister directed the concerned authorities to ensure early disposal of land acquisition by providing compensation to private land owners. He said for the purpose the government had placed Rs 1.86 crore at the disposal of the Collector, Land Acquisition,Jammu, for speedy clearance of land compensation to the concerned land owners.Giving details about the proposed project, the Minister said the ropeway would have 37 cabin lines from historic Mubarak Mandi Royal palace to Mahamaya Park and onward to Shahbad Bagh-e-Bahu. The Ropeway would have

two sections across the river delayed due to a public interest tapped. This, he said will give Tawi, one from Mubarak Man- litigation filed in the Supreme further economic boost in the di, Peerkho to Mahmaya Park Court. We have already com- region. Mr Bhalla instructed and another from Mahmaya pleted all departmental formal- the concerned authorities to Park to Shahbad. Each cabin ities and the construction work speed up the process of Ropewould have a capacity of six will be undertaken during the way projects at Shiv Khori and seats with modern ventilation next month,” Tourism Minister Patnitop which have already facilities, he said. “We have re- said.Minister for Horticulture been proposed to give impetus cently got environmental clear- and Culture, Mr Raman Bhalla to tourist activities in the reance from the Supreme Court underscored the need for pro- gion. He said the Ropeway at for laying the cable car project moting heritage and border Mubarak Mandi- Bahu Fort between the historic Mubarak tourism inof Jammu adding Srinagar that would divert the attention of University Kashmir, Mandi and Bahu Fort. We have the region has vast varied tour- more tourists towards the visit funds for the project, which got ism potential which needs to be of city of temples. nd rd th Date sheet ForB .Pharma 2 , 3 and 4 year Session Jan-Mar:2014

Centre of Examination: University of Kashmir, Srinagar

Time: 11:00 AM Friday: 10.30 a.m

.

Deptt.of Pharmaceutical Science

Date sheet ForB .Pharma 2nd, 3rd and 4th year Session Jan-Mar:2014

Time: 11:00 AM Friday: 10.30 a.m

.

Centre of Examination: Deptt.of Pharmaceutical Science

B.pharm 2nd year

B.pharm 3rd year

B.pharm 4th year

27.01.2014 29.01.2014

-----Pharmacology – I ( BPH-XV)

--------------

Pharmacology – III ( BPH-XXXII) ----------

31.01.2014

--------

01.02.2014 03.02.2014

--------Pharm. Analysis-I (Inorganic) (BPHXI) -------------

Date

04.02.2014

Pharmacology –II ( BPH- XXIV) -----------------------

--------Pharmacognosy –IV ( BPH-XXXI) --------

Drug Regulatory Affairs (BPH-XVIII)

---------------

06.02.2014

---------------

------------------

07.02.2014 08.02.2014

Physical Pharmacy ( BPH-X) ----------------

--------------------------------

10.02.2014

--------------

12.02.2014

----------------

Chemistry of Natural Products ( BPH-XXII) ---------------

13.02.2014

Medicinal Chemistry –I ( BPH-XII)

14.02.2014

---------------

15.02.2014

---------------

17.02.2014

---------------

18.02.2014

Pharm. Microbiology ( BPH-IX)

19.02.2014

-----------------

21.02.2014 22.02.2014

Dispensing Pharmacy ( BPH-XVI) --------------

24.02.2014

----------------

28.02.2014 01.03.2014

---------------

03.03.2014

Pathophysiology, Toxicology & Health Edu ( BPH-XIV) ---------------

04.03.2014 05.03.2014 06.03.2014

Pharmacognosy-II (BPH-XIII) ----------------

Pharm. Biotechnology ( BPH-XXVI)

------------------

-----------Pharmaceutical Marketing & Management ( BPH-XXVII) -----------------Pharm. Technology( BPH-XXVIII) --------------

Applied Biochemistry ( BPH-XXV) ----------------

---------------Medicinal Chemistry–III ( BPH-XXX)

Industrial Pharmacy & Cosmetology ( BPH-XIX) ------------------

----------------------------------

----------------

Biopharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics (BPH-XXXIII) -----------------

------------------Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy ( BPH-XVII) Pharmacognosy –III ( BPH-XXIII) Medicinal Chemistry– II ( BPH-XXI) --------

-----------------------------Pharm. Analysis –III (organic) ( BPH-XXIX) --------------------------------------------

----------------

----------------

Pharm. Analysis-II Physical (BPHXX)

----------------

No: F (DS/B.Pharma 2nd, 3rd & 4th Exam.1194-96)EW/ KU/GEN-425 No: F (DS/B.Pharma 2nd, 3rd & 4th Exam.1194-96)EW/KU/GEN-425 Dated: - 24.01.2014 Dated: - 24.01.2014

Sd/-Assistant Controller of Examination (Professional Conduct) Assistant Controller of Examination (Professional Conduct)

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

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

Srinagar | Saturday

Gurezi visits Reasi, inspects various Veterinary centers JAMMU, JANUARY 24: Minister of State for Agriculture, Sheep and Animal Husbandry, PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi Thursday impressed upon the sheep and goat breeders to see Government breeding Farms as models for rearing livestock on modern and scientific lines to get maximum returns.

The Minister was addressing a gathering at Reasi after inaugurating four buildings of Veterinary hospital, Panthal, Veterinary hospital, Pouni, Veterinary Dispensary, Talwara and Veterinary Dispensary, Bharakh constructed at an estimated cost of Rs48 lakh.

The Minister said that animal and sheep sectors have been tagged as the priority sectors by the Government and in this regard focused attention is being laid on providing infrastructure at the door steps of people living in remote and far-flung areas and make it a profitable activity.

He said various intervention imported from outside. He asked rearing a profitable activity as schemes have been launched , the farmers to take advantage of a large number of people of the while new technologies are being the centrally sponsored and state state are traditionally associated introduced to increase the livesector schemes launched for in- with it. stock to attain self-sufficiency in creasing their productivity and Referring to the achievement dairy, mutton and milk products Lone News Agency Khan registered News Agency Ganderbal betterKangan results. He said that the

by Omar led governin the state which are presently main focus is on making livestock five years, he said Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahidment Bookduring Depotlast Chadoora

Zabarwan Times is available at

tremendous progress has been registered in all sectors, including Animal and Sheep Husbandry by introducing modern ways to promote and develop this traditional activity.

Former Minister and MLA Mr.

Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Lone News Agency Tangmarg News Agency Chadoora Inaugurates PHC Centre agrees toBhat enhance CRF limit from Rs 85 cr to Rs 120 Cr forBhat State: Majid Wani News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency Kunzar JAMMU, JANUARY 24: The national highway projects unthe analogy of whatAgency is beingSumbalbuilding at Pallian Dar News Agency Beerwah Bashir News Union Surface Transport Min- der National Highway Devel- done in the neighbouring state Reshi Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency istry has agreed to enhance theNews opment projects and need for of Punjab & Himachal Pradesh. PattanJammu, January 24: MinBasharat Agency Bandiporafor The Union Reyaz NewsMinister Agency Central Road Fund (CRF) limit News creating road infrastructure Cabinet forPampore ister of State for Health, Mr. for Jammu and Kashmir fromNews people livingPulwama in far flung mili- Transport, Road and Agency HighwaysQazigund Altaf Agency Javaid News Shabir Ahmad Khan today Rs 85 Cr to Rs 120 Cr after the News tancyAgency infested Baramulla areas so as to ex- was also about the said that 700 doctors would Jeelani G.Mapprised News Agency Sopore issue, among others, was dis- pose militancy network in the fact that there are only 2% Na- be soon added in Health SerShah News Agency Kupwara Sultan News Agency Handwara cussed by the Minister for R&B inaccessible areas.Mr Wani ap- tional highways of total road vices system of the state by Younis News Agency Langate Sheikh Agency and Mechanical Engineering, prised the Union Surface Trans- network in theNews country cater- Islamabad filling up the vacant posts.

Mr Abdul Majid Wani Reshi duringNews portAgency about the fact that for an ing toThree 40% ofWay the News total traffic Islamabad Agency Tral He said in this regard the his recent meeting with the effective/ efficient maintenance in the state.

He was told that a selection process for recruitTurray News Agency Tral Badru News Agency Bijbehara union Surface Transport Minis- management mechanism a request stands already submit- ment of doctors, through Agencystands Kulgam News Agency ter, Mr Oscar Fernandes.Rahi News proposal submitted to ted toMalik the Union Surface Trans-Arwani Public Service Commission Rah NewsGoI Agency ShaheentoNews Agency During his meeting with for theByepass transfer of few im- port Ministry declare Doda Kargil (PSC), is at final stage

J&K r&B Minister meets union Surface transport Minister

the Union Minister, Mr Abdul Majid Wani discussed in detail a number of issues related to the road connectivity in the state were.The J&K R&B Minister gave a detailed resume about teething problems being faced by the department in the state including insufficient funding under the CRF scheme, need for transfer of few roads from BRO/ Beacon for maintenance to the state R&B department, urgent need for taking up few new roads in the state as new

portant roads and National Highways viz., Batote Kishtwar Sinthan Top NH-1B, Dhar Udhampur Road, Bani Machhedi Road, Reasi -Pouni Road, Pouni-Sair Kalakote Rajouri road, BudhalMahore -Gulabgarh road, Jammu–Akhnoor Road, Rajouri Thanamandi- Surankot road, Janglat Mandi Anantnag Sinthan top road, Sangrama Sopore Kulamgam road, BandiporaTragbal road Srinagar and Sumbal Bandipura Road to the state R&B department on

–Desa –Kapran Road, ChenaniSudhMahadev-MarmatDoda road and Mugal Road as New National Highways in the state under National Highway Development Project for which the inception/ pre-feasibility reports have already been forwarded to the GoI. The J&K Minister said that Doda –Desa –Kapran Road will not only provide a safe & separate corridor for Shree Amarnath Ji yatra but shall also be of great strategic importance.

700 vacant posts of doctors to be filled soon: Shabir

Apprising that provision for better quality health care facilities has received focused attention of the government, he said that besides upgradation of health infrastructure, including construction of hospital buildings in rural and hilly areas, many new health institutions in difficult topography areas have also been prioritized.

Addressing a public meetings today at Pallian, Rajouri after inaugurating New

One-day training-cum-awareness prog on water sanitation held at Jammu Sham, Bhalla, Madan highlight importance of water sanitation, emphasize for greater awareness campaign JAMMU, JANUARY 24: Continuing campaign to generate awareness among various stakeholders of the societyabout the water sanitation and its judicious use, a mega one day training-cum-awareness programme was held at Police Auditorium, here today.

The programme was organized by the Communication and Capacity Development Unit (CCDU) in collaboration with NGO National Development Foundation (NDF).

Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, ShamLal Sharma was chief guest, Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture, Raman Bhalla was guest of honour on the occasion. Member Parliament, MadanLal Sharma and MLA, Ashok Khajuria were special invitees on the occasion Chairman, State Water Resources Regulatory Authority, S.S. Kapur, Commissioner/Secretary PHE, Dr.PawanKotwal, Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, A.K. Sahu, Chief Engineer, PHE, K.K. Gupta, Superintending Engineer (Hydraulic), Jammu, Rajiv Gandotra, State Coordinator, CCDU, Dr.NarinderButyal, Chief Functionary,

NDF, Rajiv Khajuria, engineers, doctors,

Sarpanchs, anganwari workers, ASHA workers, resource persons on the subject and prominent citizens from different parts of Jammu district were present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma said that awareness of water sanitation, conservation and its judicious use is an important component of National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP), and PHE Department has been mandated to implement this programme

in letter and spirit. He asked the con-

cerned to expand its area of operation at the block level and conduct frequent awareness camps to educate the masses at the bottom level to achieve the real spirit of the programme.

Maintaining that Sarpanchs/Panchs have greater responsibility to ensure safe drinking water and conservation of water resources in the rural areas, the Minister asked the PRIs to play their pro-active role and full-fill responsibilities in their jurisdictions.

new La Complex: Speaker for double shift work to ensure timely completionaa JAMMU, JANUARY 24: Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Mr. Mubarak Gul has directed the executing agency J&K Project Construction Corporation (JKPCC) to start double shift work on the upcoming Rs 104.44 crore new Legislative Complex to ensure its early completion .

This direction was given by the Speaker while inspecting the pace of work on the project here today. He asked the JKPCC to put in more men and machinery in place to start double shift work and complete this prestigious project in a time bound manner.

The Speaker also stressed for close monitoring to ensure quality of work and use of standard material. He said any lapse in this regard will not be tolerated.Earlier, Mr. Gul inspected the renovation work on existing Assembly Complex including face lifting, whitewash in and outside, besides flooring, fixing of electricity faults replacement of tubes and other lights in the Central Hall and in the House. He asked the Estates department to engage adequate manpower to ensure completion well before the budget session commencing from February 10, 2014.Secretary Assembly, Mr. M. Ramzan, Director Estates Mr. Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad, a team of officers of JKPCC and Assembly Secretariat accompanied the Speaker during his visit.

Later, the Speaker convened a meeting with the Head of the Information and Public Relations Department and discussed various issues related to the facilities to be kept available for the print and electronic media during the upcoming session.Director Information, Mr. Tasaduq Jeelani and other senior officers of Assembly Secretariat attended the meeting.

Speaker nominates members of BaC JAMMU, JANUARY 24: Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Mr. Mubarak Gul today nominated members of Business Advisory Committee (BAC).

The members nominated are Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Tara Chand, Minister for Agriculture Production, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir, Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Mir Saifullah, Deputy Speaker, Legislative Assembly Mr. Mohammad Sartaj Madni, Legislators, Mtr. Mehbooba Mufti, Prof Chaman Lal Gupta, Mr. Hareshdev Singh and Mr. M. Y. Tarigami.

MLAs Hakeem Mohammad Yasin, Mr. Tsetan Namgyal, Mr. Ashok Kumar and Mr. Ashwani Kumar Sharma would be special invitees.The notification in this regard has been circulated by the Assembly Secretariat here today.

Abdul Gani Malik also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the activities of the government. He said that several welfare schemes have been launched by the government with the aim to improve the living standard of the people especially living in hilly and remote areas.

He appealed the people especially youth to come forward and take benefits of these schemes.

District Development Commissioner, Reasi Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhry, Director, Sheep Husbandry Jammu Dr. Sant Ram, Deputy Director Central Sheep Husbandry Department, Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, various officers of district administration, a good number of farmers and prominent citizens of the district were present on the occasion.

Earlier, the Minister inspected Sheep Breeding Farm Panthal and took stock of working of the Farm.

He also inspected Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) project.

He was informed that so far the process of standardization, collection and transfer of embryos has taken place at ETT lab Panthal.

Later, Mr. Gurezi inspected the various groups of animals in the Farm.

Type Primary Health Center Building constructed at a cost of Rs 1.07 crore, the Minister said that government would soon add over 700 doctors in Health Services by filling up of vacant posts. He said in this regard the selection process of these doctors through Public Service Commission is at final stage. He said once the selection list received from the PSC these doctors would be posted on vacant posts in the hospitals especially in rural and hilly area.

The Minister said that the economic welfare of rural and hilly areas is the top priority of the government adding that implementation of special schemes for socioeconomic transformation have yielded tangible results at grass root level in the State.

He said governments’ priority is to upgrade communication, education and health cover in these areas and extent assistance to help generate economic activities and give fillip to the education and health

care facilities.

The Minister also called upon the Panches and Sarpanches to highlight the problems and developmental needs of the people before the government for their early mitigation. He said that they should also ensure that benefits of Flagship programmes like MGNERGA, NRHM,PMGSY, R-APDRP and SSA, RMSA reach to all villages and hamlets. The Minister called upon the people to continue their full support to the government for meeting the goal of prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. He asked them that not to heed on hallow sloganeering of vested interests whose aim was to use innocent people for their personal motives.

The Minister reaffirmed that being the local representative equal development of all the areas was my priority and no injustice would be done to any area of the Constituency on the developmental front.

Governor inspects arrangements for upcoming Indian Science Congress at JU Governor inspects arrangements for upcoming Indian Science Congress at JU JAMMU, JANUARY 24: Mr. N.N. Vohra, the Governor, accompanied by Mr. Mohan Pal Singh Isher, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University, Mr. Navin K. Choudhary, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Atul Goel, SSP, Jammu, Prof. Naresh Padha and Prof. Meena Sharma, organizing Secretaries of the Indian Science Congress visited Jammu University and reviewed the upcoming facilities and arrangements being put in place for the 101st Science Congress being held in the University from 3-7 February, 2014.The Governor inspected the upcoming Seminar Hall Area, designed exclusively for this prestigious event and was briefed in detail by the Vice Chancellor, on all the arrangements being made for conducting this mega event in an appropriate manner.Mr. Atul Goel, District Superintendent of Police, Jammu, briefed the Governor about the Security plan for the movement of VVIPs and delegates participating in the Science Congress.

The Governor also visited the venue for the Children Science Congress and various other facilities specific to the event.Later the Governor inaugurated the six storeyed building of the Directorate of Distance Education having lecture halls, seminar hall, library, Student Facilitation Centre, cafeteria, Book Store etc, at the Jammu University.The Governor exhorted upon the Vice Chancellor and all functionaries of the University to pay attention to details and ensure completion of all arrangements in a timely manner. He also desired that the visiting dignitaries and scientists are properly taken care of and all events are organized in a flawless manner.

Vikar inaugurates Solar Power Plant at iti r S Pura 17 more ITI’s to be provided Solar Power plant JAMMU, JANUARY 24: Minister of State for Technical Education (Independent charge), Power, Information and Rural Development Department, Mr. Vikar Rasool Wani today inaugurated 66.24 KW capacity Solar Power Plant constructed at a cost of Rs. 1.62 crore at Industrial Training Institute (ITI) R S Pura here today.

The Minister was accompanied by Secretary Technical Education Department, Mr. Parvaiz Malik, Director Technical Education, Kashmir, Mr. Jaipal Singh, Principal ITI RS Pura, Representative

Tata Power Solar System, Mr. Javed kant and other concerned officers On the occasion, Mr. Vikar said that Plant which is funded by the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy under Jawahar Lal Nehru National Solar Mission scheme and constructed by Tata Power Solar Systems Bangalore has already been installed at women’s ITI Pampore and 17 more would be provided with this state of art Technology. He said that Solar Power Plants will be installed a total cost of Rs 32.20 crore, which could provide 24 hours power supply to these technical institutions.

The Minister said that government is committed to make maximum use of this technology and various public institutions and

other technical institutions are being provided this facility. He said that the Solar Power Technology will go long way in overcoming power crisis in the State by providing the much needed electricity at a cost effective price besides, ensuring un –interrupted supply.

Referring to the steps taken by government for popularising skill development and also for inculcating scientific temperament among students, the Minister said that the government has undertaken several steps for augmenting the infrastructural capacities of the technical education department to extend facilities to both boys and girls by opening up of a chain of polytechnics and ITI’’s in all the three regions of the State.

25. 01 .2014

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19

Usually you prefer to approach events with a practical and scientific attitude, Aries, but today you’re feeling especially intuitive and more aware of the other worlds, so it might be difficult to hang on to your usual mindset. Some uncomfortable feelings you’ve had about events in the news could prove to be accurate, which might be a bit disconcerting.

Taurus April 20-May 20

If you’ve been thinking about taking up the study of astrology, numerology, alchemy, or any other occult science, this is the day to get started, Taurus. Scientific adherence to facts and rules combines with enhanced telepathic abilities to bring about a burgeoning skill in such fields. Look up some friends who share your interest and arrange to attend a class or workshop on whatever subject appeals to you the most.

Gemini May 21-June 21

Some rather intense and vivid dreams could inspire you to embark on some in-depth study of a subject that specifically interests you, Gemini. This could involve the arts, philosophy, or metaphysics. Travel plans to one of the world’s great spiritual centers, such as Jerusalem, Glastonbury or Vrindavana, might be on your mind as a result. Your level of intuition is very high today.

Cancer June 22-July 22

Romantic relationships take on a fairytale aura, Cancer, bringing up the kind of desire, passion, and sense of unity associated with Lancelot and Guinevere. Therefore, this should be a wonderful day to schedule an intimate evening with a romantic partner. You could feel so much in tune with your friend that you may come with the same words at the same time.

Leo

July 23-August 22 Today you might attend more than one group activity or social event involving spiritual or metaphysical matters. Your sense of intuition is very high, Leo, and your level of understanding is especially acute. Therefore, concepts that could be confusing at other times could seem as clear as a bell today. You might form strong bonds with others who are also present, and you might make plans to meet with them again in the future. Enjoy!

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Intellectual or artistic work could take up a lot of your time today, Virgo. Your level of inspiration is high, and you’re apt to be full of ideas that others would find beneficial. You’re also likely to sense the thoughts and feelings of those around you before they themselves are consciously aware of them.

This not only increases your career standing, it can help you in the love department. Enjoy your day!

Libra

September 23-October 23 Study of religion and spiritual matters could well be of particular interest for you today, Libra. You’re likely to discuss your knowledge and beliefs regarding such matters with a close friend, which could prove rather enlightening for both of you. Whatever you learn will prove to be artistically inspiring, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself spending some time writing down your thoughts or turning them into pictures. Don’t limit yourself!

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 Today communication with others is more likely to be on a subtle rather than verbal level, Scorpio. When the phone rings, you might already know who’s on the other end of the line before you pick it up. You could also pick up telepathically on the thoughts of others. Books and articles about people who have had similar experiences could increase your understanding of them. Don’t fight it! Go with the flow.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Inspiration drawn from recent religious or spiritual occurrences could have you writing down accounts of your experiences, Sagittarius, perhaps with the idea of someday publishing them. Your concentration could well be intense, as writing for you today may not be only creative but therapeutic as well. It will also help to attend classes or workshops or simply to discuss the subject with a friend.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

You should be feeling especially strong and healthy today, Capricorn. The drive to exercise, particularly if you do it alone and outdoors, is likely to get the endorphins going and thus give you a natural high, which could lead to an increased level of inspiration and intuition. After you finish, it might be a good idea to sit in a park, preferably near water, to allow yourself to come down.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

Today, Aquarius, you might find yourself picking up uncanny telepathic messages from a friend who lives some distance from you. A telephone call might reveal that this person has just received some good news, and that they were just thinking of calling you! This probably won’t be the only ESP experience you have today. Your level of intuition is very high.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 Creative inspiration flows freely today, Pisces, enabling you to channel it in more than one way. An opportunity to earn a sizable fee doing something artistic could come your way. Spiritual or metaphysical studies may be involved. This might represent the attainment of a long-term goal you’ve been striving to reach, and therefore you’re apt to be rather excited about it.

EDITORIAL/ OPINION Strong ties in the best interest of India and Pakistan

T

he ups and downs in Indo-Pak relations have created chaos and confusion in the sub continent. This has also resulted in wide spread disappointment amongst the people of the two countries who want better understanding and better relations so that people to people contact is increased and business activities get a boost. However despite several confidence building measures the ties between India and Pakistan have not been as strong as anybody in the sub continent would expect them to be. The political compulsions of the people at the helm of affairs in both the countries have played their role as everybody is hesitant to leap forward an extra mile in cementing the relations. The recent statement of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh that it was his mission to visit Pakistan had created new hopes of cordial relations between the two neighbours but Pakistan as usual issued a disappointing statement saying that the talks on high level can only be resumed after the general elections in India. This statement has added to the confusion as both the countries should go forward on improving their relations keeping aside the democratic process which takes place in India smoothly and the transfer of power from one party to another in case of a defeat has never been complicated as has been in Pakistan. Democracy in India is deep and strong rooted so the foreign policy of the country hardly changes with the change of government at union level. If Pakistan is honest enough it should welcome the Prime Minister Dr. Man Mohan Singh to visit Pakistan so that all outstanding issues between the two countries are addressed amicably and through a sustained dialogue process. The dialogue between the two countries is presently snapped hence there is an urgent need to revive it. The confidence building measures which were initiated since last some years need to be strengthened and more confidence building measures should be introduced which will help to normalize the relations as soon as possible. India and Pakistan can become world’s strongest economies if they strengthen their business ties and declare each other a most favoured business partner. This will also help to develop the marketing avenues within the two countries and outside the two countries for their products particularly in the food and fruit packaging, software and information technology etc. The two have ample resources. What they need is to leave animosities behind and create an atmosphere of cordiality between themselves.

Daily

Zabarwan Times

Srinagar, Saturday 25 January 2014

Right to Education

R

ight to Education (RTE) is by far the most historic development in universalisation of elementary education in the country.

Enacted in 2010, it implies that every child in the age group of 6 to 14 years has Right to elementary education. They are entitled for free and compulsory education.The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) is the main vehicle for implementation of the RTE Act. It is one of the largest programmes of its kind in the world. It is primarily funded from central budget and it covers the whole country. More than 19 crore children are covered under this scheme in 11 lakh habitations.

98% of habitations in this country have elementary schools within 1 km and 92% have upper primary schools within 3 km of their locations.

The programme has been implemented in order to narrow down gender and social gaps in elementary education.

Special efforts have been made to reach out to girls and children belonging to SC/ ST and Muslim minority communities.

Over 3500 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBV) have been set up as residential upper primary schools for girls from SC, ST, OBC, Muslim communities and BPL girls in the educationally backward blocks. Free boarding / lodging, books, stationary and uniforms are being provided to the children in these schools.

Under SSA, special attention has been given to urban deprived children, children affected by periodic migration and children living in remote and scattered habitations. Attempts have also been made to reach out to children suffering from autism. It involves their identification, preparation of individualized Education Plan, teacher training on Autism and therapeutic support.

As part of the scheme, steps have been taken to improve the standard of elementary education in the country. It includes improvement in infrastructural facilities and sanctioning of new teacher posts in government schools. Free textbooks are being provided to all children in government and government aided schools.

Last year, the centre released more than 23800 crore rupees and during the current financial year (2013-14), in the first eight months, over 16000 crore rupees have been released.

This increased funding has led to massive creation and improvement of

infrastructure at school level. About 95% schools have drinking water facilities and 90% schools have toilets. Similarly about 75% upper primary schools have furniture. More than 3 lakh new school buildings with toilets, drinking water facilities and electricity have been created under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, a flagship programme of UPA government to implement RTE. Since the enactment of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, the enrolment of children at the elementary level has increased from about 19 crore in 2008-09 to about 20 crore in 2012-13 as per District Information System for Education (DISE) data. A total of over forty three thousand five hundred schools, seven lakh additional classrooms, five lakh forty six thousand toilets and thirty four thousand six hundred drinking water facilities have been sanctioned to States/

UTs under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) programme to meet the objectives of the RTE Act. The enrolment among the SCs has increased from 3 crore to 4 crore during 2008-09 and 2012-13. Similar positive trends have been noticed among STs and minorities also. Thirteen states have also admitted children belonging to disadvantaged groups/weaker sections in private unaided schools as per the RTE Act. Along with the Mid Day Meal Scheme, the Right to Education Act has made substantial impact on universalisation of elementary education, reduction in dropout rates and fighting classroom hunger.

The improvement is reflected in the Net Enrolment ratio in Primary Education. It was 99.89% in 2011-12. There has been a substantial drop in dropout rate among the kids at the elementary level.

The number of out of school children has come down sharply from more than 1.34

crore in 2005 to 29 lakh in 2012-13.

Several new measures have been taken for improving quality under RTE, in letter as well as in spirit. About 20 lakh additional teacher posts have been sanctioned under SSA upto 2012-13. Out of this twelve lakh forty thousand posts are reported to have been filled. After RTE, it is compulsory that only those people who are able to clear the Teacher Eligibility Test may be appointed as teachers.

To improve quality of learning, children are provided free text books upto class 8. Continuous and comprehensive evaluation system is being promoted. Curriculum reforms are made to make learning more children friendly and inclusive.

Training for in service teachers and head masters are being incentivized.

The focus of all HRD Ministry schemes under the 11th Five Year Plan was access and growth whereas quality is the key under the current Five Year Plan.

National Voters’ Day, 2014 May Herald a New Chapter in Indian Electoral Process th January is observed as the National Voters’ Day (NVD). It is also the day when the founding fathers of Indian Constitution gave to their people ‘the Election Commission of India’, with the mandate of Superintendence, direction and control of elections. The Commission is dedicated to the task of delivering free, fair and credible elections to the Indian people. But to make democracy meaningful, there has to be maximum participation of the people in the electoral process.

Conducting of Election entails the inbuilt responsibility to have every eligible Indian on the electoral roll and get everyone in the roll to vote voluntarily. Besides, the participation of citizens in elections needs to be informed and ethical for a healthy democracy. The objective behind National Voters’ Day celebrations is to increase enrolment of voters, especially of the newly eligible ones to make universal adult suffrage a complete reality. National Voters’ Day is aimed at reaching out to the people, learning the reasons for their disillusionment with the process and helping them in realizing the fact that democracy is not complete until everyone is part of it. The day is also utilized to spread awareness among voters regarding effective participation in the electoral process. The Pledge that the new voters take on this day is a reaffirmation of our faith in ourselves, our country and democracy.

Till date Election Commission of India has conducted 15 General Elections to the Lok Sabha and many general elections to State Legislative Assemblies, thus facilitating peaceful, orderly and democratic transfer of power. Added to this list are the elections to top constitutional positions, to Rajya Sabha and State legislative councils. In its effort to conduct free, fair and transparent polls, the Commission fiercely guards its credibility, besides ensuring the vote of every eligible Indian to count. It faces the new challenge now to conduct the next Lok Sabha elections this year amidst the rise of new political fronts led by young, educated, techno savvy leaders backed by young voters. According to the 2011 Census, the first-time voter number is a staggering 149.36 million. That’s well over 20% of the 725 million voters the Election Commission (EC) reckons will be eligible to vote in 2014.The total number first-time voters is likely to swell by May 2014 to around 160 million (the census was held in 2011).

Considering this mammoth election management exercise in the world, the Election Commission is concerned about greater participation of citizens in the country’s electoral process as against the present level of apathy and non-involvement among certain sections, especially the youth. In particular, the Commission has found that the new voters (18+) are missing from the electoral roll in a big way year after year. In certain cases, the level of their enrolment is as low as 20 to 25%.

In order to effectively deal with this problem, the Commission has initiated a vigorous exercise to identify all the eligible voters attaining the age of 18 years as on

1st of January every year, in each of the 8.5 lakh polling station areas of the country. Besides registration, these newly enrolled voters are also administered a pledge that goes as follows: “We, the citizens of India, having abiding faith in democracy, hereby pledge to uphold the democratic traditions of our country and the dignity of free, fair and peaceful elections, and to vote in every election fearlessly and without being influenced by considerations of religion, race, caste, community, language or any inducement”. Moreover, the newly enrolled voters are given a badge with the slogan “Proud to be a voter – Ready to vote” during the felicitation ceremony along with their EPIC. This process is expected to give the youth a sense of citizenship, empowerment, pride and participation and also inspire them to exercise their franchise, when the occasion comes.

In keeping with the objectives of the National

able to somewhat bridge the widest gap in our electoral roll– the under registration of the newly eligible electors. All this has been accomplished through the laudable efforts and sustained hard work of the election machinery right from Chief Electoral officer in the state down to the Booth Level Officer and with the sustained SVEEP campaign, which stands for ‘Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation’. Election Commission of India has launched various campaigns under our SVEEP programme, to disseminate necessary information, motivate voters and facilitate participation. The messages from the youth icons, namely, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Former President of India, Shri M.S. Dhoni, and Shri Virat Kohli of Indian Cricket Team, Olympic medallists Ms. Saina Nehwal, Ms. M.C. Mary urging the eligible voters to get registered, are being used in the campaign. Messages from the

Voters’ Day, a countrywide special campaign is taken up to reach out to the newly eligible (18+) electors, and to register them in the electoral roll.

The Chief Electoral Officers (CEO’s) of all states and UT’s have been instructed by the commission from time to time, to enroll every youth who has attained the age of 18. The Commission has specially been impressing upon the fact that as many women voters as possible need to be enrolled. Without the participation of women, a significant proportion of our country’s population remains on the fringe of democracy.

Through the National Voters’ Day, we have been

regional icons are also being used to ask the youth to register and vote.The occasion has surely turned out to be momentous thereby bringing home the point that to ensure democratic government of the people, for the people and by the people one needs to understand Vote is our Right and Might. All the major issues relating to elections such as corruption, casteism, communalism and the like continue to draw attention because of the apathy and poor participation of the ordinary populace in elections. Certainly the message from the Commission is loud and clear: it will not relent until every single eligible voter is able to- and is willing to- vote.

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