Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 25 May, 2014

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SUNDAY 25 May | 2014 | 25 Rajab, 1435 AH | PAGES 12|

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CJ lays foundation of Rs. 25 Cr District Court Complex at Pulwama

Lt. Gen. Chachra meets Governor Srinagar, May 24: Lt. General Sanjiv Chachra, Army Commander, Northern Command, called on Mr. N.N Vohra, Governor, here at Raj Bhavan, today.

According to a statement issued to GNS by an official spokesperson, the Army Commander extensively briefed the Governor about the obtaining and emerging security situation, particularly in the context of the continuing concerted attempts at infiltration across the International Border and Line of Control.

The Governor discussed with General Chachra issues relating to field firing Ranges located in J&K and the importance of amicable civil-police-military relations being maintained under all circumstances. (GNS)

Drive against use of polythene in Srinagar Srinagar, May 24: A drive was conducted against use of polythene by police, SMC and Revenue authorities in North city areas of Srinagar. Polythene bags were seized from eleven shopkeepers and Raidawalas and handed over to the ward officer Khanyar for destruction.

According to a statement issued to KNS, SDPO Khanyar along with the Tehsildar North Sh. Mushtaq Ahmad, Naib Tehsildar Khanyar Sh. Naseer Ahmad, SHO Rainawari Sh. Feroz Ahmad, SHO Police Khanyar Sh. Manzoor Ahmad, SHO Nowhatta Sh. Parvaiz Ahmad , SMC ward officer Rainawari Sh. Mohammad Yousuf, SMC ward officer Khanyar Sh. Syed Aijaz Hussain along with their staff conducted this market checking.

OSD to Minister ‘misbehaved’ with delegation Srinagar, May 23: Father of Muhammad Salim Pandit, the J&K Bureau Chief of ‘The Times of India’, passed away here on Friday after a brief illness. Hundreds of people from all walks of life participated in the Nimaz-e-Jinazah of Ghulam Mohammad Pandit, a former Assistant Information Officer (AIO), who breathed his last at 6 am today. The Fateh-e-Khawani of the deceased, according to the family, would be held at Astanpora graveyard Qayoom Colony, Rawalpora, at 10:30 am on Sunday. Thereafter, the condolence meeting shall be held at Alamdar Colony residence in Rawalpora near bridge. (CNS)

On Edit Page It is believed that men make houses, women make homes. Men bring in provision, women produce a meal.

Marriage is an old institution for bringing up family which is the basic unit of any society. Marriage normally is an equal partnership of a man and a woman with equal status in rights and duties. But it has been observed that women have been less equal so far as rights are concerned. Men traditionally wrest power and dominate. Women are invariably dependent and feel marginalized. This kind of disparity brings bitterness among the two partners.

Ever since the concept of women liberation started getting momentum the family life became the first target of this theme getting popularity and support. Men chauvinism could not accept women at par with them as

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Nawaz Sharif to attend Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony New Delhi, May 24: Three days after he was invited, Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Saturday announced that he will travel to New Delhi on May 26 to attend the swearing- in ceremony of Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi, following which he will hold bilateral talks.

Sharif, who will reach New Delhi on Monday, would be accompanied by his Advisor on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi and Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry among others.

The announcement by the Prime Minister’s Office ended the suspense over Sharif’s visit that was being opposed by the hardliners in the establishment in Islamabad.

PML-N party sources said, the development came after Prime Minister’s brother and Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif met the Army chief Gen Raheel Sharif last night for about half-an-hour.

Shahbaz Sharif conveyed to Gen Raheel Sharif the importance of the See Nawaz on pg 11

Nawaz Sharif’s decision a well come step: Mehbooba

NC Welcomes Nawaz Sharif’s decision

Srinagar, May 24: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti, has welcomed the decision of the Pakistan Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, to participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as prime minister.

In a statement issued to GNS, she said the occasion would introduce a lot of positivity into the relations of the two See Mehbooba on pg 11

Srinagar, May 24: The ruling National Conference (NC) has welcomed the decision of Pakistan Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif’s decision to attend the swearing in of the new Indian Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi. And has termed it ‘significant and positive development’ In a statement issued to GNS, the Additional General See NC on pg 11

Mirwaiz, Shah welcome Sharif’s decision Srinagar, May 24 : Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani on Saturday said that Pakistan being a sovereign country took a decision on swearing-in ceremony invitation of Prime Minister designate, Narendra Modi’s and the same must have been taken keeping all its dimensions into consideration.

“It was Pakistan’s discretion whether to accept Mr Modi’s See Mirwaiz on pg 11

Former Interlocutors to write letter to Modi Govt UPA Govt had a non serious approach: Padgaonkar Srinagar, May 24: The three former interlocutors, appointed by the UPA Government after summer unrest of 2010, have decided to shot a letter to the BJP led government inviting its attention to their report submitted to the then union home ministry.

Talking to KNS, Dileep Padganokar, noted journalist and one of three former interlocutors said that they have proposed to write a letter to the union home minister within a few days immediately after the new government formation at the Centre.

“We want to invite attention of the new government towards the recommendations put

forth by us in our report besides giving a background of the follow up of our report. The follow up was that the union government will share our report with all political parties and invite all stake holders to debate our recommendations,” Padgaonkar informed KNS. He accused Congress led UPA government of being non serious towards interlocutors report saying that the UPA government did not bother to share or debate their recommendations during its regime.

“Fact of the matter is that the UPA government to several months to upload our report on home ministry’s website.

They (UPA) have been non-serious to our efforts,” he added.

He said that UPA government did not bothered to share their report and initiate a debate on the same. Padganokar said that there was no follow up on their report during the Congress led UPA government. “I met P Chidambaram who was then union home minister. He assured me that our report will be shared and debated. Later he was shifted to finance and Mr Sushil Kumar Shinde came in. I met Mr Shinde twice but all in vain. He did nothing.”

The former interlocutor observed that BJP led government may address the issues in Jammu and Kashmir likewise it will address the problems in other states. “Let us not forget that Mr Rajnath Singh BJP president led a delegation to Kashmir. He is familiar with Kashmir problems. I hope BJP government will analyze our report besides the recommendations put forth by the working groups See Letter on pg 11

Kashmir’s living in Shimla allege harassment Will take all measures for day and that they are being forced to leave their safety: IGP Kashmir the place.

Srinagar, May 24: The non-resident Kashmiris living in Shimla have accused that they are being unnecessarily ‘harassed’ and ‘compelled’ to leave the place and that raids are being carried out at their homes with the authorities acting as the mute spectators.

According to the reports received

by KNS, several families living in Shimla prior to the partition of India, at present are accusing that the local waqf board and police is

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“Our fore fathers used to earn their livelihood in Shimla, we are doing the same and are workers as the labourers in the region to earn for our families. We have been resident here since 1947 but presently we are being forced to migrate from here,” said Nazir Ahmad Mir. Another labourer namely Ghulam Nabi Hadi stated that they have been residing near See Shimla on pg 11

Sonamarg clash 2 army men held for assault released Srinagar, May 24: Police on Saturday released two army men who were detained after a group of soldiers from army’s High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) went on rampage beating and injuring at least three policemen in the picturesque Sonamarg meadow of Ganderbal district.

Officials told GNS that Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) Lengoo (E910178) and Sepoy Harpreet Singh (15341349) were released today after they were reportedly found not involved in the thrashing of policemen.

“The duo have been released and handed over to army,” a police official, insisting not to be named, told GNS. On Friday, at least three policemen sustained injuries after soldiers beat them up for stopping their convoy. The incident triggered strong anti-army protests in the area. To cool the tempers, police filed a case under FIR no 3/20 14 under sections under sections 307, 357, 392, 147, 148. 427 RPC in Sonamarg police station.

Police also seized four army

vehicles including a bus (06P189711) and a Swaraj Mazda (03D1516148) from Army High Altitude Warfare School Sonamarg.

Meanwhile, police sources informed GNS that the investigations into the incident were going on and the cops who were attacked yesterday want action against the guilty army men.

“There is strong resentment among the cops against the army. They want prompt action,” they said.

On Saturday, senior police and army officials visited Sonamarg police station and took stock of the situation. “They saw bullet marks inside police station. Initially they were doubtful but today all their doubts were clear,” a low-ranking police officer, who was thrashed yesterday, told GNS. “Though two army men were freed today but we hope that those involved in firing inside police station and snatching weapon from one of our See Clash on pg 11

80,000 posts vacant

Unemployed youth want Omar to intervene Srinagar, May 24 : Days after Chief Minister Omar Abdullah ordered the revocation of the fixed job policy in Jammu and Kashmir; the unemployed youth Saturday urged the government to fill up the posts lying vacant in the various government departments at an earliest.

According to the reports received by KNS, more than 80 thousand posts are lying vacant in various departments from the last six years with the little efforts being done on ground for the filling up of the same.

The educated unemployed youth while expressing optimism that the necessary measures shall be taken to fill on the posts on merit- ac-

Tainted officials of CA&PD department ‘free to do anything’ Srinagar, May 24: The official secret documents of Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CA&PD) reveals that officials of the department involved in various scandals are not only awarded prize postings but also shielded at the higher level.

In a letter vide number CA&PDD/Pul/2014/4087 to the Director CA&PD Kashmir, Assistant Director Pulwama reveals that 7228 quintals of rice was issued to Khrewa circle by the then Tehsil Supply Officer (TSO) namely, Riyaz See Tainted on pg 11

cused that the Service Selection Board (SSB) is in the deep slumber, caring little about the conduction of the interviews for the posts it advertised in the past.

“We wonder why the government is not taking any action over the plight of those who in large numbers have filled up the forms for the posts that SSRB advertised in the initial months of 2013.

No action in actual is being taken to rectify the wrongs,” said a group of university students.

They maintained further that ahead of the assembly elections of 2008, it was promised by Omar Abdullah that the thousands of posts lying See Vacant on pg 11

Forces conduct searches in north Kashmir

Srinagar, May 24: The army and Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir police have started massive search operation following the ‘general inputs’ about the presence of militants in north Kashmir forests, official sources said here on Saturday.

Army’s 28 and 18 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and SOG started on Saturday conducted massive searches in Lolab forest of remote Kupwara district following ‘general input’ about presence of militants.

“The snow has started to melt and this is the time when militants start infiltration inside our territory,” sources said, adding See Forces on pg 11

‘LeT motivating youth to join their ranks’ Mostly missing youth join militancy Pulwama, May 24: From past few month many people mostly youth have reportedly joined the militant ranks in different districts of South Kashmir.

Police sources told CNS that three youth from Pulwama while one from Shopian who had gone missing have joined the Pakistan based militant outfit Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT).

From past 15 days a 12th class student Tariq Ahmed Malik son of Muhammad Akbar is missing from his native village Chandgam Tahab in Pulwama district. “Initial investigation has revealed that Tariq might

have joined the militant ranks. Various youth from South Kashmir went missing and after investigation it was proved that all of them have joined militant ranks,” a police official told CNS. Giving details, the police official said that four youth are actively participating in militancy related incid e n t s after they went missing from their houses. “All the four youth namely Wasim Yousuf Mir of Hifshermal Shopian, Showkat Lone of Lelhar Kakapora, Afzal Talib resident of Kakapora and See LeT on pg 11

Nawaz Sharief to attend the oath taking ceremony of Narendra Modi One to one talks between the two on 27th May, Kashmir issue likely to figure From our special correspondent Srinagar, May 24: The likely arrival of Pakistan Prime Minister, Mr. Nawaz Sharief to grace the oath taking ceremony of newly elected Indian Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi is being viewed as a step forward in Indo Pak relations which almost collapsed during past some months. Due to hostilities on the borders and LoC, the relations between the two countries were strained so much that these came at the brink of collapse and almost got to pre- ceasefire position. Mr. Nawaz Sharief has been invited by Mr. Narendra Modi along with other SAARC heads of the Govts to be part of the oath taking ceremony which will be

held in open at Rashtrapati Bhavan. While accepting the invitation M r Nawaz Shrief has given indications that his country is ready to reciprocate positively the initiatives taken by Modi.

One more good omen in the Indo-Pak relations will be the meeting of two heads of the Govts slated to be held on 27thMay, 2014. The talks will be held on wide ranging issues

and most likely Kashmir problem will figure in the talks though much cannot be expected from Nawaz’s arrival and his first meeting with Indian new prime minister. Still it seems ice will be broken and two countries can surge forward on the path of normalization of relations.

One expects and prays that the meeting of Nawaz Shrief should not go the same way as the Lahore

Yatra of Mr. Atal Bihari Vajpayee did go. Soon after this historic visit the Kargil war broke out which claimed precious lives of hundreds of jawans from both the countries and destroyed property worth billions of rupees. Not only this, the Kargil war left behind pain, agony and hatred which is still afresh in the minds and hearts of the people of both the countries. It is expected that the present visit of Sharief who has also been elected afresh last year, and who soon after his election assured to pick up threads where they were left before Kargil war in 1999, will come true and people of sub-continent will see ushering of a new era in the bilateral ties of India and Pakistan. The invitation of Modi who represents BJP considered to be a fundamental-

ist and communal political party is indicative enough that who so ever is at the helm of affairs would always want peaceful borders and friendly neighbours. Whatever be the future of Indo Pak relations Modi has shown maturity statesmanship and farsightedness by inviting Shrief taking a leap forward and exhibiting his honest and serious diplomatic vision. He has won several hearts around world by doing so as every peace loving person would like to see that all outstanding issues between India and Pakistan are resolved properly and a sustained dialogue takes off so that amicable solutions are carved out. There is no issue in the world which cannot be See Ceremony on pg 11

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Srinagar, Sunday 25 May 2014

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Nawaz visit to India for maintaining good relations between the two countries and peace in the region.

A Foreign Office statement in Islamabad said, according to the programme received from India, the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will have a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the morning of May 27. The Prime Minister would also call on the President of India.

The delay in Sharif confirming his attendance at the swearing-in ceremony was attributed to opposition from hardliners in the Pak army establishment.

Prime Minister Sharif had telephoned Modi to congratulate him on his party’s election victory and invited him to visit Pakistan after assuming office.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said that New Delhi has received confirmation from Islamabad on Nawaz Sharif’s participation. Six SAARC countries including Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives and Bangladesh have already confirmed their participation.

Modi had invited all the leaders of member states of the SAARC to the ceremony.

It is for the first time that Heads of foreign countries have been invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony of India’s Prime Minister. About three thousand guests are expected to witness the function at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Prakash Javadekar of BJP said it is a good move and a beginning of a new relationship.

Welcoming the participation of Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif at the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi, senior Congress leader Rashid Alvi told that it has been the policy of the Congress to have good relationship with all the neighbours.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah hoped that this would mark a new beginning in Indo-Pak relations. Omar wrote on micro-blogging site twitter.com that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will be closely watching the developments.

Mehbooba neighboring countries. “Unfortunately, Kashmir has been the worst victim of the hostilities between the two,” she said.

Mehbooba said while Modi’s initiative of inviting all SAARC leaders was a welcome new step, the focus of attention remained as to how the Pakistan PM would respond to the invite. “Nawaz Sharif by accepting the invitation with grace and showing respect to Modi’s initiatives has introduced an element of much needed positivity to the Modi’s stint as the PM of the country,” she added.

Mehbooba said the breaking of ice on Indo-Pak front has always been the centerpiece of South Asian regional co-operation under the SAARC. She said the flip-flop relations between the two countries, unfortunately, have restricted the potential of co-operation between South Asian countries, which are all trying to fight poverty and very depressing human development indices.

Referring to the stalled peace process initiated by the former PM, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, she said the new beginning should lead to progress on resolution of Kashmir and other issues and the Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) along the Line-of-Control (LoC) need to be carried further.

Mehbooba said there was a need for a sustained dialogue which should not get interrupted by the events as has been case in the past. She expressed the hope that the two PMs would be able to carry the public opinion in their countries and respond positively to the need for a dignified and lasting peace in the Sub-continent. Mehbooba said for the people of Jammu & Kashmir that would be the biggest gift of the new PM and it could work as a major CBM for developing a more inclusive agenda for his government. (GNS)

Geelani Secretary of NC, Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal has said that National Conference was a strong votary of continued contact between the governments in New Delhi and Islamabad.

“Speaking to various public delegations who called on Dr. Kamal at NC Head Office today, Dr. Mustafa Kamal reiterated NC’s commitment to peace and harmony in the region. Dr. Kamal said that Nawaz Sharif was a part of a series of bilateral dialogue processes with New Delhi in the past and his desire for sustained friendship with New Delhi was an appreciable stand,” the statement issued to GNS reads.

He said that the people of J&K were the biggest beneficiaries of cordial relations between India and Pakistan and conversely were also the worst victims of animosity between the two neighbors. “This opportunity, where the Pakistan Prime Minister is visiting New Delhi should be utilized to initiate a new process of talks and negotiations between the two countries,” he said.

Speaking to the delegations, Kamal said that it has been observed that whenever the two countries come closer to each other there are vested interests who fuel turmoil and orchestrate sabotage to disrupt talks between India and Pakistan. “It is the need of the hour to dis-incentivize these vested interests and their acts by pledging to continue talking to each other despite isolated radical voices who opposed such initiatives and fuel animosity between the two neighbors”, he said.

Mustafa Kamal said that the defense spending by both India and Pakistan is phenomenally high as a share of their respective budgets every year and one of the fruits of good relations would be a curtailed Defense Spending. “Money spent on arms and ammunition could be spent to eradicate poverty and usher both countries into new eras of inclusive growth and equitable development”, the NC leader said. (GNS)

Mirwaiz invitation or not. Since Pakistan Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif Saheb has now given his nod, it is good,” Geelani told KNS. While hailing the decision taken by Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to attend Modi’s swearing-in ceremony scheduled to be held on May 26, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chairman Hurriyat Conference (M) expressed hope and confidence that the move will help in creating a conducive atmosphere between the two countries.

Talking to KNS, Mirwaiz said: “It is a positive deci-

Zabarwan Times sion take by Pakistan prime minister and the same is bound to create a conducive atmosphere between the two countries. I feel this decision will help in harmonizing relations between the two countries.”

Mirwaiz hoped that the diplomatic gestures exhibited by the Prime Minister designate Narendar Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister will pave way in resolution of long pending Kashmir dispute. “Hope these gestures are given a positive direction for conflict resolution and ways and means are explored to take Kashmiri leadership on board for a permanent resolution of Kashmir issue,” Mirwaiz told KNS. He said that Kashmiris have always welcomed any positive engagement between India and Pakistan and presently also people of Kashmir hope for better and cordial relations between the two neighboring countries.

Shabir Ahmad Shah, Hurriyat Conference Jammu and Kashmir (HCJK) welcomed the decision taken

by Pakistan Prime minister to attend the swearing in ceremony of Prime Minister designate Narendra Modi.

Talking to KNS, Shah said that Kashmir being a long pending issue, Mr Modi should take some concrete steps towards its resolution. “Jammu and Kashmir is an international issue and the two countries must engage Kashmir leadership while trying to harmonize their own relations,” the HCJK leader said. (KNS)

Clash men would be brought to justice in coming days,” he said adding the way army behaved with us is ‘totally unacceptable’. He said.

“I told army that I would have pardoned them in case they had only thrashed me but they fired inside police station after snatching rifle from one of our man.” He added.

The officer said that the locals, including the women, saved them from the wrath of army.

Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, Shahid Mehraj told GNS that few empty cartridges were found inside police station. “Investigations are on and so far no arrests have been made,” he said.

“They thrashed our men inside police station, went berserk and fired bullets. They broke glasses of police station and damaged official record,” another constable, who wished not to be named, told GNS. Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, Sarmad Hafeez said that police is investigating the matter. “It is matter of investigation. Action will be taken against those who are found guilty according to law,” he said.

Letter constituted by the former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh,” Padganokar hoped.

Asked about diplomatic gestures extended by Prime Minister designate Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister accepting Modi’s invitation, Padgaonkar cautioned that people should not pin high hopes and expectations from the first meeting between the heads of two neighboring countries. “This is their first meet and in this meet they will try to know each other. They have never met before. So keeping high hopes and raising much expectations is not advisable. We should allow the two leaders to know each other first,” he opined.

When asked about ‘tough posturing of Modi on Pakistan’, the former interlocutor said: “All the political parties change their posture when they come out of electioneering mode to governance mode. I hope once in governance mode Mr Modi will be tough but pragmatic as well. Let us hope that we see reassurances for comprehensive engagement between the two countries in this first meet between Mr Modi and Mr Sahrif,” Padgaonkar remarked. (KNS)

Vacant vacant with the government will be filed once he assumes authority. “Five and a half years have passed and in reality nothing was done on ground. What really is in the mind of the government is difficult to understand.”

According to the reports received by KNS, more than 37000 non-gazetted posts are lying vacant in various departments in direct category with 5778 gazetted posts for direct recruitment are also vacant.

The government has also more than 13000 posts of class-IV employees vacant in various departments.

In a promotional quota, the government has reported as many as 16000 vacancies in non-gazetted cadre and 1379 in gazetted cadre apart from 1379 class fourth posts.

The higher education and school education departments have 2109 and 1515 vacancies in gazetted cadre respectively and school education in non gazetted cadre having 12372 vacant posts followed by Home 6678, finance 2042 and forest 1848. The total number of gazetted and non-gazetted vacant posts in education department is 22894 followed by Home department 9019.

The senior officials in the government when contacted told KNS that SB conducted the written test of 11000 posts in which 3 lakh candidates applied. “he recruitment process is in full swing and more members have been posted at SSB to ensure speedy drive,” the government said.

It maintained further that General Administration Department has been asked to identify more vacant positions to be filled through Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) 2014.

Reports also stated that various departmental committees are selected to fill up the class fourth positions. The selection process has been geared up to complete the process of recruitment. (KNS)

Forces

“Army’s 21 RR, 6 RR and SOG Handwara have also started searches in Rajwar forest following general inputs about their presence.”

Meanwhile, army’s 32 RR and SOG also started searches in the neighboring Baramulla district amid intelligence inputs suggesting the presence of militants in Watergam area. The searches were called off later, sources added. (GNS)

Shimla the local mosque of Shimla from years now and that they smoothly were earning for their families. “From the last few days, we are being harassed at large and that night raids are being carried out by the policeordering us to leave the place. The local wafq board is also hand in glove with the police here and that no remedial measures are being taken by the Shimla au-

thorities to end our growing woes.”

Another labourer Mohammad Abas Wani told KNS over phone from Shimal that of they are evacuated from this place, they would have no source of income and that their families and children will starve.

“What other source of income we have. We work as the labourers here and if we leave this place, we will no source of the livelihood. Our government has to think about this crisis.”

Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir A.G. Mir assured to take up the matter with Shimla police authorities.(KNS)

Tainted Ahmed Malik while the said quantity of food grains has been misappropriated by the said TSO. Assistant Director CA&PD Pulwama in his letter to the Director further reveals that Vigilance Organization Kashmir has asked for the grain bag statement of Kakapora and Pulwama circles in which the said TSO is also involved in issuing over and above quantity of food grains in BPL and AAY category and the records pertaining to this is missing in district Pulwama, which according to the AD Pulwama needs to be verified at grass root level.

AD Pulwama further writes that the said TSO has been indulged in this practice for a long time and the same has been un-noticed by the concerned officers of the department.

The official letter according to CNS, further reveals that in the month of February 2014, the said TSO Riyaz Ahmed Malik again issued excess quantity of rice and flour to New and Kakapora circles respectively for which the undersigned has called for explanation vide number CA&PDD/STS/3504 dated March 5, 2014 and the reply is still awaited. “Again the said official did not stop here but in the next month March 2014, he again issued over and above quantity of rice, sugar and flour to Kakapora, Pulwama and Awantipora circles,” the official letter reads.

Surprisingly, instead of taking action against the said TSO, he has been given prize posting.

The official documents further reveal that another TSO namely Abdul Gani Malik allegedly involved in multi-crore Madwa Wadwan rice scam have also got prize posting. The said TSO as per official records is also involved in Mid-day meal scam in Anantnag where he misappropriated all but 3000 quintals of rice that was meant for school children. “It is a known fact the Malik soon after the surfacing of this scam, visited Accounts sections office in Srinagar and tempered with the official records. All involved in scams get prize postings and it is done by the higher authorities,” a CA&PD official told CNS on condition of anonymity.

Commissioner Secretary to CA&PD Department Baseer Ahmed Khan told CNS that the department has taken a tough stand on the tainted officials. “We are recovering every penny that they have grabbed through fraud from these tainted officials. And we are mulling to attach the property of the tainted defaulters,” Khan said adding that no tainted employee have been given prize posting. (CNS)

LeT Mudasir Shiekh of Kishrigam Pulwama are active from past two month and are working for LeT,” he said adding that LeT is reportedly on recruiting drive in South Kashmir and for this purpose it is using all means to exploit more and more youth.

Another police official told CNS that LeT is focusing mostly on the youth residing in South Kashmir’s Tral and Awantipora belt. “So many local militants are present in Tral town who are constantly in touch with their family members and friends mostly students.

Militants keeping in touch with their civilian friends is a dangerous trend and this way militants are able to motivate them to join their ranks,” he said citing the recent example, how militants used their local friends to shift the dead body of one of their colleagues in an orchard, which was later on recovered by the police.

Police sources said that militant outfit Hizb-ul-Mujhadeen is losing ground in South Kashmir while LeT has almost taken over there. “Most of the militants present in South Kashmir are affiliated with LeT and it is this outfit which is motivating more and more youth to join them,” a police official said.

Reports said that police is maintaining foolproof record of the missing persons in South Kashmir. (CNS)

Ceremony solved through negotiations and the best way of negotiations is to continue talks irrespective of the fact that differences are there and there are elements on national and international level who want to play spoil sport. The players on international level despite their rhetoric to see good Indo Pak relations, infact, are averse to peace process as the hostilities between the two countries are filling up their coffers by selling their lethal arms to both India and Pakistan. If Modi has taken a stride why should Shrief lag behind and why should he not strengthen the fresh initiatives. In fact all the critics of BJP know that every opposition talks hard, so does BJP when it is sitting on opposition benches, but the fact is that the best initia-

tives to normalize relations with Pakistan, has come through this party when in power. Let everybody pray for the success of new initiatives and let us give peace a chance. The initiatives of Modi deserve a pat which everybody irrespective of his political affiliations should give him with open heart.

Maintaining and repairing of huts in Pahalgam: DCA castigates PDA for receiving funds from SASB

Srinagar, May 24,: Downtown Contractors Association (DCA) Saturday alleged that Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) has received a huge amount from Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) and has allowed the Board to maintain and construct huts for the pilgrims and labours. They said earlier the huts used to be constructed by local contractors with their own money and accordingly the contractors used to charge SASB for this purpose.

“SASB had earlier approached Tourism department and the Board had offered Rs 97 lakh to the department with a view to construct and repair huts on their own, but the Tourism department rejected the proposal at the last minute. Now, SASB has offered huge amount to PDA and the later has allowed them to construct and repair the huts,” the contractors said adding that this move may enable SASB to occupy all the huts once for all and it will become the property of the Board.

Terming the move of PDA as anti-people, DCA told CNS that if PDA will allow SASB to construct, maintain and repair the huts, then it will start an agitation.

Chief Executive Officer, PDA, Reyaz Ahmed told CNS that they have not secured any funds from SASB. “We use our own funds in repairing the huts while SASB has nothing to do with it,” he said. (CNS)

Hurriyat (M) delegation visits Tosamaidan

Srinagar, May 24 : A delegation of Hurriyat Conference (M) led by Syed Salim Geelani today visited Lasipora Tosamaidan where a girl lost his life and her brother sustained injuries after an unexploded shell they were fiddling with exploded.

According to a statement issued to KNS, while expressing concern over the incident, Geelani passed on the solidarity and sympathy message of APHC Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to the bereaved family.

Geelani said the girl along with scores of residents lost their lives since military was continuing with its gun exercises in the area. He said due to active military movement in the area, entire area has plunged into an insecure zone.

Demanding immediate military withdrawal from Tosa Maidan, the senior leader also asked the international human rights organizations to cognizance of the grave situation. Geelani assured the residents that entire APHC was with them in theses hours of grief.

Later the delegates visited the house of the deceased girl Simran. Addressing the condolence gathering, Geelani asserted that hurriyat was well aware about its responsibility towards the martyrs of Kashmir.

He warned the people against the conspiracies which were being hatched to create chasm between the resistance leadership and people. Senior hurriyat leader Abdul Rashid Untoo, also addressed the gathering.

Syed Tahir Qadri and others were also present in the gathering. (KNS)

Saffron crop to be covered under crop insurance scheme in Kashmir

Srinagar, May 24 : Agriculture Department Kashmir is implementing Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme in Kashmir division during the current year.

In the first instance saffron crop spread over an area of 3,700 hectares shall be covered under the scheme.

This was disclosed at a joint meeting of representatives of various insurance companies and departmental functionaries of Agriculture Department held here today under the chairmanship of Director Agriculture Kashmir.

It was decided in the meeting that the three companies shall be authorised to provide the insurance cover to the crop on uniform pattern and uniform data of premium. It was further disclosed that insurance cover shall be provided at Rs. 2 lakh per hectare and the crop shall be covered for deficit rainfall, consecutive dry spell, low temperature and high rainfall. 50% of the premium shall be borne by the Government under the scheme.It was also given out that Insurance companies shall install an automatic weather station at Pampore for capturing of data on the basis of which the crop shall be covered.

In another meeting Director Agriculture Kashmir reviewed the status of Kissan Credit Cards scheme during which it was given out that so far 3 lakh Kissan Credit Cards have been issued to the farmers in Kashmir division, out of which a loan amount of Rs. 566 crores have been disbursed among 2.07 lakhs Kissan Credit Card holders.Director Agriculture Kashmir Impressed upon the District level officers of the department to ensure 100% coverage by the end of June 2014. He also urged them to reconcile the figures with the banks and get the reconciled figures adopted by the respective lead banks. (KNS)

OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE ENGINEER ELECTRIC DIVISION'S™ GANDERBAL Short Term Tender Notice No. 04 of 2014-15 Dated: 19/05/2014 For and on behalf of the Governor of J&K State, Sealed tender affixed with Rs. 10/- Revenue stamps are invited from the registered, reputed and resourceful Class - A Electrical Contractors enlisted/ registered with J&K Power Development Department and registered Self Help Groups of Electric Engineers for following job: Details of works: S.No

Particulars of work

Estimated cost (Lacs)

Earnest money

Completion Period

Position of funds

1.

Repairs of Luminaries at Divisional StoresED Ganderbal/ Sub-Stores Kangan in connection with Annual Shri Amarnath Yatra - 2014

1.65

2% of offered amount

05 days

Demanded

Bid document consisting of specifications of work, schedule of quantities and set of terms and conditions of contract can be had from the office of the undersigned in person on application against non-refundable cash payment of Rs. 200/- as cost of tender document.

Key Dates regarding issuance/ submission of the tender document: 1. Starting day of sale of Tender documents 20/05/2014 2. Closing day of sale of Tender documents 28/05/2014 3. Last day of submission of the filled tender documents 29/05/2014 4. Opening of tender documents 29/05/2014 The tenderers are required to submit tender purchase receipt, attested copies of VAT Registration Certificate, PAN Card, VAT Clearance Certificate for previous year and renewed electrical contractor license/ renewed registration from the competent authority.

The bids shall be opened in the presence of the bidders who may like to be present at the time of opening offenders.

The authority reserves the right to reject the bid/s without assigning any reason thereof DIPK NO. 779

Sd- Executive Engineer ED-V Ganderbal

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

40

11

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

SRINAGAR |SUNDAY, MAY | 25 | 2014

CJ lays foundation of Rs. 25 Cr District Court Complex at Pulwama ‘Says infra dev must for ensuring better working environment’

PULWAMA, MAY 24- As a part of infrastructural development for the smooth functioning of judiciary in the State, Chief Justice of J&K High Court, Justice M.M. Kumar today laid foundation stone of new District Court Complex at Pulwama in presence of Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey, Judge of J&K High Court, who is Administrative Judge for the District.

The proposed complex will be constructed over a land of 36 kanals to accommodate the Court of Principal District and Sessions Judge and all subordinate courts under one roof. The total cost of the project has been estimated to Rs. 25.15 crore by the J&K State Housing Board, which is executing agency. The project comprises total plinth area of 59047 sqfts with provisions of Advocates’ chambers, Library, Conference Hall, Bar Room, Canteen and toilet blocks etc. with all modern facilities.

The period of completion has been fixed for two working seasons.

Principal District & Sessions Judge Pulwa- Members of Bar Associations of Pulwama, A galaxy of guests including, Secretary ma, Jawad Ahmed, Deputy Commissioner, Tral and Pampore, officers of J&K Housing Law, Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Mir, Regis-Kangan Lone News Agency Khan News Pulwama, Manzoor Ahmed Lone,Agency MD, J&KGanderbal Board and a large number of prominent trar General, J&K High Court, Suresh Ku- Soura Gulzar News Agency Zahid Book Chadoora Housing Board, R.P. Sharma, ChiefDepot Judicial citizens were present on the occasion. mar Sharma, Principal Secretary to ChiefHawal Magistrate, Ms. Masrat Shaheen, Pul- Nowhatta While interacting with the media Tariq News Agency Bashir NewsSSP, Agency Justice, M.Y.Akhoon, Registrar Vigilance wama, Tejinder Singh, Joint Registrar High persons after foundation stone laying Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk High Court, A.K. Koul, Registrar Judicial Court, Gowhar Majid Dalal, Members of ceremony, Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowkthe Chief Justice said that inHigh Court, Aijaz Ahmed Mir, Secretary High Court Registry, Judicial Officers of frastructural development was must to Gupkari News Agency Lal Raina News Agency Kangan J&K Legal Services Authorities, R.K. Wattal, all Chowk subordinate courts, Presidents and allGund ensure better working environment in the

Zabarwan Times is available at

Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Magam Dar News Agency Beerwah Reshi News Agency Safapora Basharat News Agency Bandipora SRINAGAR, MAY 24: Prof. Gul Mohammad Wani, Director, AltafInstitute News Agency Pulwama UNESCO Madanjeet Singh of Kashmir Studies, UniJeelani News Agency Baramulla versity of Kashmir called on Governor, Mr. N.N. Vohra, ChairShah Agency Kupwara man of the Institute, here at News Raj Bhavan.Prof.

Wani briefed the Governor about the ongoing and co-curricular Younis academic News Agency Langate activities in the UMIKS, the initiatives taken byIslamabad the Institute to Reshi News Agency attract students from the SAARC countries, andTral the efforts beTurray News Agency ing made to invite experienced scholars in the area of InternaRahi to News Agency Kulgam tional and Regional Studies deliver lectures at UMIKS. Rah News Agency Byepass

Director, UMIKS calls on Governor

JKAP Mahila Battalion organizes Route March in Jammu City

JAMMU, MAY 24: In order to ensure robust health level and keep the troops in high degree of alertness, Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police (Mahila Battalion) organized a route march in Jammu city today.Commandant Mahila Battalion, Mrs. Aneeta Sharma flagged off the March in the early hours at Gulshan Ground in which besides Gazetted Officers, as many as 229 Mahila personnel clad in smart turnout participated. The March passing through pollution free hilly area of Wild Life Sanctuary Manda and culminated at the Battalion headquarters, after covering a distance of more than 8 kilometers.

Rashid News Agency Dalgate Hilal News Agency Budgam Bhat News Agency Chadoora Zargar News Agency Kunzar Bashir News Agency Sumbal Saleem News Agency Pattan Reyaz News Agency Pampore Javaid News Agency Qazigund G.M News Agency Sopore SRINAGAR, MAY 24: Sultan News Agency Handwara Chairperson, State Islamabad Women’s Sheikh News Agency Commission and MLA Habba Three Way News Agency Tral Kadal Ms. Shamim Firdous visBadru News Agency Bijbehara ited the Habba Kadal ConstituMalik ency andNews tookAgency stock Arwani of various Shaheendevelopment News Agencyschemes.

Kargil ongoing

Taurus April 20-May 20

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

Gemini May 21-June 21

judiciary and efforts are afoot to upgrade the necessary facilities in every nook and corner of the State. Expressing happiness over the proposed court complex, the Chief Justice said that an effort has been made to meet the futuristic requirements of the district, adding that there is plenty of scope for expansion on the acquired land.

Shamim visits Habba Kadal, reviews ongoing developmental schemes

SRINAGAR, MAY 24: Asserting that strong network of developmental projects are being implemented in full swing across the State and every effort is being to build a progressive, productive and developed State at par with other States of the country, the Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone said that fulfilling peoples aspiration in general and wishes of youth in particular is among top priorities of present government led by chief minister Omar Abdullah.

This was stated by the Minister while addressing a large gathering of people at Gund Jehangir in Sonawari Constituency. This was stated by the Minister while addressing a large gathering of people at Gund Jehangir in Sonawari Constituency.

Mr. Lone said that youth play pivotal role in nation building and are

June 22-July 22

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

Leo

Virgo

August 23-September 22

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

Libra

September 23-October 23

etc.

Mr. Sagar while inspecting the pace of work on the new Zaina Kadal Bridge directed the officers to speed up the pace of work on the same as it would go

future asset of our nation and every effort will be taken for their welfare so that they are able to earn their livelihood with dignity and honour, besides lead the State to touch new heights of development and prosperity.

The Minister said government is very much enthusiastic for the welfare and prosperity of youth and various programmes are underway and in this regard new recruitment policy has been scrapped by the government so that educated youth feel relaxed, adding that all the recruiting agencies have been directed to complete job recruitment procedure on fast track basis.

The Minister appealed people for extending their cooperation to the government in making State a prosper and carry forward the glorious traditions of amity, peaceful co-existence and tolerance of the State with renewed vigour and devotion.

Cancer

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

Ensure timely completion of dev projects: Sagar

Fulfilling youth’s aspirations top priority of Govt: Lone

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

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

July 23-August 22

She visited various areas of the Constituency which include Baba Dharam Dass, Chinkral Mohalla, Nowpora, Ikhwanpora and other areas also. She also took stock of under construction various drains in the area.

Shamim announced to release of Rs. 30 lakh from her CDF for construction of lanes and drains in Habba Kadal constituency.

She was also accompanied various district officers during her tour to Habba Kadal.

Chief Engineer R&B Kashmir, Mr. Bimal Tickoo, MD JKPCC, Mr. T. R Bhagat, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. M. Y Dar and senior officers of line departments like SMC, PHE, PDD, UEED,

Aries

March 21-April 19

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

>>>>>>>>>>>>Sagar tour Sgr City SRINAGAR, MAY 24: Asking the officers to ensure timely completion of various projects undertaken by the Government in different sectors like R&B, Education, Road Connectivity and other basic amenities related sectors for the sustained and need based development of the Srinagar city, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayats, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that the same is necessary so that the people get requisite benefit from these welfare schemes and programmes.

The Minister was addressing officers during his extensive tour of Srinagar city conducted today to oversee the status of implementation of various projects being carried out in Srinagar city.

Mr. Sagar was accompanied by the Vice-Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Waqaf Board, Mr. M. Y Qadri, Secretary Higher Education, Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad,

HOROSCOPE

a long way in regulating the movement of traffic and pedestrians in the old city. He said that the requisite funds have already been earmarked and the steps for necessary compensation to the persons whose property has been acquired have been taken.

“The Government has undertaken a programme for developing the area of Zaina Kadal and its catchments on the heritage pattern, so that the area comes up on the tourist map and the economic and tourist related activities get a boost”, he added.

Asking the officers to accelerate the pace of work on new Degree College being constructed at Bagh-i-Dilawar Khan in the old city, the Minister said that the timely completion of the same should be ensured as it

would go a long way in augmenting the educational infrastructural capacities in the Srinagar city and would provide quality educational facilities to the youth of the area.

The Minister also inspected the pace of work on the public utility complex constructed at Khankah-i-Moulla and asked for the speedy completion of the same. He also directed the officers for ensuring the proper landscaping of the park in the vicinity of the shrine for the general convenience of the devotees coming to pay obeisance there.

Mr. Sagar while inspecting the pace of work on the renovated shrine at Makhdoom Mandav at Kailashpora asked for the early completion of the same.

The Minister also visited the renovated shrine of Dastgeer Sahib (RA) and directed for the early completion of the leftover work there.

Saffron crop to be covered under crop insurance scheme in Kashmir SRINAGAR, MAY 24: Agriculture Department Kashmir is implementing Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme in Kashmir division during the current year. In the first instance saffron crop spread over an area of 3,700 hectares shall be covered under the scheme.

This was disclosed at a joint meeting of representatives of various insurance companies and departmental functionaries of Agriculture Department held here today under the chairmanship of Director Agriculture Kashmir Mushtaq Peerzada.

It was decided in the meeting that the three companies shall be authorised to provide the insurance cover to the crop on uniform pattern and uniform data of premium. It was further disclosed that insurance cover shall be provided at Rs. 2 lakh per hectare and the crop shall be covered for deficit rainfall, consecutive dry spell, low temperature and high rainfall. 50% of the

premium shall be borne by the Government under the scheme.

It was also given out that Insurance companies shall install an automatic weather station at Pampore for capturing of data on the basis of which the crop shall be covered.

In another meeting Director Agriculture Kashmir reviewed the status of Kissan Credit Cards scheme during which it was given out that so far 3 lakh Kissan Credit Cards have been issued to the farmers in Kashmir division, out of which a loan amount of Rs. 566 crores have been disbursed among 2.07 lakhs Kissan Credit Card holders.

Director Agriculture Kashmir Impressed upon the District level officers of the department to ensure 100% coverage by the end of June 2014. He also urged them to reconcile the figures with the banks and get the reconciled figures adopted by the respective lead banks.

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

Scorpio

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

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

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

Capricorn December 22-January 19

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

Aquarius January 20-February 18

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

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

Pisces

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

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

Accept the good energy that comes your way.

EDITORIAL/ OPINION Why sweet relations turn sour?

I

t is believed that men make houses, women make homes.

Men bring in provision, women produce a meal.

Marriage is an old institution for bringing up family which is the basic unit of any society. Marriage normally is an equal partnership of a man and a woman with equal status in rights and duties. But it has been observed that women have been less equal so far as rights are concerned. Men traditionally wrest power and dominate. Women are invariably dependent and feel marginalized. This kind of disparity brings bitterness among the two partners. Ever since the concept of women liberation started getting momentum the family life became the first target of this theme getting popularity and support. Men chauvinism could not accept women at par with them as sometimes this concept was wrongly projected in such a way that it would deprive men folk of their superiority and make them subjugated to women or in other way women will be freed from the bondage of men. This misinterpretation with the time deepened and culminated in breaking cordial relation between the two partners.

In the recent past there has been a steady increase in the post matrimonial disputes all over the world.

Earlier it was common in western societies only but now the Asian countries too are facing the brunt of the misinterpretation of the concept of liberalization of women. It s a fact that everybody wants freedom to develop and progress, but this freedom or liberty cannot be acquired at the cost of the other partner. Other reasons for discord between the two equal partners can be numerous but most glaring amongst them are violence or physical assault of women, dowry, mismatch due to continuous conflict situation, breach of trust and financial inequalities or constraints etc. Undoubtly both the partners have to suffer a lot due to this discord occurring in relations but the worst suffers are the minor children out of the wedlock, who develop many inferiority complexes. Their personality cannot be groomed properly and consequently they fall prey to many social evils like drug addiction and other immoral practices as parents are not there to reprimand them or show and guide them towards the right path. Disputing mothers and fathers have a duty towards their children to make them good citizens.In view of the increasing number of family disputes, there is an urgent need of counselling bureaus and family courts to deal with such cases exclusively. Institution of marriage must be kept intact.

Any harm to it will mean chaos in the society which will have adverse effects not only on the future of the children but also will destroy the very institution of marriage.

Daily

Zabarwan Times

Srinagar, Sunday 25 May 2014

Say no to Tobacco Nearly six million people across the world die because of direct or indirect use of tobacco every year and the figure could go up to eight million by 2030 unless urgent action is taken says WHO. In India one out of 10 Indian adults dies of tobacco related diseases and Tobacco is cause for 1.5lakh cancers, 4.2 million heart diseases, and 3.7 million lung diseases every year. Our country has one of the highest rates of oral cancer.

According to Tobacco Intervention Initiative statistics, 4300 lakh tobacco is consumed in the form bidis, chewing tobacco, gutka and snuff and smoking cigarettes. Fourteen crore men and 4 crore women are addicted to tobacco in India according to official figures. Over half of the male population around 57 per cent in the age group 15-49 years uses tobacco in some form and over one tenth of women in this age group also use tobacco. More than 5,000 youth in our country take to tobacco use every day.

The health ministry estimates that by 2020, tobacco will be responsible for 13% of all deaths in India and says that without any intervention, more than 38.4 million bidi smokers and 13.2 million cigarette smokers are likely to die prematurely. Second-hand smoke also remains a big problem. The misconception about certain tobacco products being safe also encourages many to consume tobacco in one or another form.

India launched the National Tobacco Control Programme in the 11th five year plan. It has ratified the WHO convention on tobacco control which recommends several strategies to reduce the demand and supply of tobacco. India was among the first few counties to set up a chain of tobacco cessation clinics at the district level. Several legislations are also in place for reducing tobacco usage and manufacture. These include Regulations of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations of 2011, made under the Food Safety and Standards Act and Cigarette and other Tobacco Products (Pack-

aging and Labelling) Amendment Rules, 2012.

As per the Regulations of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations of 2011, made under the Food Safety and Standards Act, gutka, zarda, pan masala, gul, bajjar and such other toxic and addictive forms of chewing tobacco are mandated to be banned by various states.

Although 24 states and five union territories have so far banned gutka and paan masala containing tobacco, there is a question mark over the implementation of the ban. Whether it is the capital Delhi or other town where the ban is in place, gutka is being either sold openly or clandestinely in different names and pouches which is the people addicted to are even willing to pay a higher price.

The Supreme Court had last month sought compliance reports from all state governments that have banned the sale and manufacture of gutka and paan masala containing tobacco.

According to the new Cigarette and other Tobacco Products (Packaging and Labelling) Amendment Rules, 2012, notified on September 27, 2012, all tobacco product packs in the country are to carry new pictorial warnings which focussed in detail the portion of the human body affected by tobacco use.

The health ministry had also for the first time inserted the word ‘Warn-

ing’ in the new pictorial warnings and mandated that this word be printed in ‘red’ colour along with the messages - ‘Smoking kills’ and ‘Tobacco kills’.

The new notification makes it mandatory for all tobacco makers both smoking forms and smokeless to maintain pictorial warnings in the states format and also to place the health warning in at least 40 per cent of the principal display area of the tobacco package.

At recent consultations several government and non-governmental organisations called for a complete ban on advertising, promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products in the country. The consultation was

by HRIDAY (Health Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth) and Voluntary Health Association of India (VHAI) in collaboration with the Health and Family Welfare ministry and the WHO Country Office for India. It was felt that despite the regulations, tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship is very rampant and youth-centric. The urgent need to strengthen the existing provisions of COTPA and a multi-sect oral and inter-governmental synergy was stressed to effectively implement a complete ban.

Advertising of tobacco products is restricted under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regula-

tion of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003, (COTPA).

It is also established that a majority of smokers as many as 70 per cent desire to quit, but only 30 per cent of them actually try each year, and only 3 to 5 percent actually succeed in quitting, states WHO. The theme of this year World No Tobacco Day is: Ban tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship.

A comprehensive ban of all tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship is required under the WHO Framework Convention for Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) for all Parties to this treaty within five years of the entry into force of the Convention.

Evidence shows that comprehensive advertising bans lead to reductions in the numbers of people starting and continuing smoking. Statistics show that banning tobacco advertising and sponsorship is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce tobacco demand and thus control its usage.

The objective of 2013 campaign is also drive local, national and international efforts to counteract tobacco industry efforts to undermine tobacco control, specifically industry efforts to stall or stop comprehensive bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship.

Of the six million people who die of tobacco related diseases every year globally more than 600 000 are non-smokers dying from breathing second-hand smoke.

The ultimate goal is to contribute to protect present and future generations not only from these devastating health consequences, but also against the social, environmental and economic consequences of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke.

So until all forms of consumption of tobacco cease through regulations and laws the goal of tobacco free India cannot be fulfilled. There is therefore a need for all stake holders in public health to coordinate their effort for everyone to emphatically say No To Tobacco.

Creating Employment Opportunities for Youth India is a vast country with a population of about 1.21 billion and a labour force of around 475 million. There is an open unemployment of 9.5 million as per estimates available for the year 200910. Employment is the main source of livelihood and self-fulfillment for most women and men.

About 6% of the total work force in India is employed in organised sector while remaining 94% are in the unorganised sector. Scope of additional employment generation in the organized sector for additional wage employment is less.

India has a younger population not only in comparison to advanced economies but also in relation to large developing countries. As a result, the labour force in India is expected to increase by 32 per cent over the next 20 years, while it will decline by 4.0 per cent in industrialised countries and by nearly 5.0 per cent in China. We are, therefore, endeavoring to reap this ‘demographic dividend’ by providing for higher levels of health, education and skill development. This will create an environment where in the economy not only grows rapidly, but also enhances good quality employment and livelihood opportunities to meet the needs and aspirations of the youth.

The Government has been making constant efforts for reducing unemployment through normal growth process and implementing various employment generation programmes, such as, Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY); Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) and National Rural Livelihood Mission besides entrepreneurial development programmes run by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises.

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA) also assures every rural household at least 100 days of manual work at minimum wages.

Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM): The Mission’s aim is to encourage reforms and fast track planned development of identified cities. Focus is on efficiency in urban infrastructure and service delivery mechanisms, community participation etc.

Bharat Nirman In Bharat Nirman, critical areas of rural infrastructure – Irrigation, Roads, Water Supply, Housing, Electricity and Telecom connectivity have been covered. This has improved living standards of the rural population and also created infrastructure which will ultimately enhance the economic activities in the rural areas and generate significant employment opportunities for the rural people.

Infrastructural Development The investment on infrastructure is proposed to be increased to Rs.45 lakh crore during XII Plan period. About half of this is expected to come from private sector.

Skill Development · Skills and knowledge are the driving forces of economic growth and social development of any country. Countries with higher and better levels of skills adjust more effectively to the challenges and opportunities of the world. · Government is serious in creating training infrastructure and providing quality employment to youth. According to a study carried out by Quality Council of India, placement rate has increased to about 80% to 99% because of improved infrastructure in the modernized ITIs. Skill Development Initiative (SDI) Scheme based on Modular Employable Skills (MES) was started during the Eleventh Five Year Plan for early school leavers and existing workers, especially in the unorganised sector to improve their employability. About 16 lakh persons have been trained under the scheme so far. · Sincere efforts are being made for skill development of a large number of people under various skill development programmes.

The Prime Minister has set a target of skilling 500 million persons by 2022 and the Ministry of Labour & Employment is required to train 100 million. Government is systematically working to achieve the target and the training capacity has been increased from 9 lakh in 2006 - 07 to 26 lakh in 2011-12. All the Government ITIs are being modernized. New courses have been introduced and most of the ITIs are running in two to three shifts. During last five years, the number of Government and private ITIs has increased from 5114 in 2006-07 to 10,344 which is more than double. Government has also planned to set up 1500 more ITIs in PPP and 5000 Skill Development Centres in PPP to enhance the capacity further. 27 Advanced Training Institutes are also planned in PPP to produce adequate number of trainers in the country.

Focus Area in the 12th Five Year Plan In the 12th Five Year Plan the thrust of the Government is in bringing about an inclusive growth strategy that will provide job opportunities as well as make the young of the country employable.

The main focus areas are: a) Thrust on Manufacturing Sector-to make

it the engine of employment growth-that would create 100 million additional jobs by 2025. b) To bring in supportive policies to incentivise labour intensive manufacturing sectors such as textile & garments, leather & footwear, food processing, gems & Jewellery to generate more employment opportunities. c) Expanding employment in services like IT, finance & banking, tourism, trade & transport. d) Prioritizing skill training for the informal sector; creation of appropriate skill sets among rural migrants and urban poor to make growth inclusive. e) Ensuring the employability of skilled persons by involving Sector Skill Councils in preparation of Skill Modules matching market demand. f) Building on the potential of Modular Employable Skill programme by ensuring combination of modules to ensure employability. g) Extending Social Security benefits to Unorganized sector Workers. h) Enable skill loans for poor students (Credit Guarantee Fund) i) Streamlining the skill development programs for disadvantaged sections to ensure much larger funding for skill development. j) Setting up of National Skill Registry to link data bases across Ministries / States to provide a platform linking people who seek/provide employment.

Expenditure on social services which include education, sports, art and culture, medical and public health, family welfare, water supply and sanitation, housing, urban development; welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and other Backward Classes (OBCs), labour and labour welfare, social security and welfare, nutrition, relief for natural calamities, etc. by the Government (Centre and State combined) has also shown increase in recent years reflecting higher priority to social services.

National-e-Governance National-e-Governance Plan has identified Upgradation and modernization Employment Exchanges as one of the Mission Mode Projects (MMP). The MMP aims to progressively support all Employment Exchanges in the country to make effective use of IT in various activities of employment services. A national web portal will be developed to make all employment related services available on a single window and will work like a virtual job market. This will help Employment Exchanges to provide efficient and quality services at wider scale and speed.

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