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THURSDAY 26 June | 2014 | 27 Shaban, 1435 AH | PAGES 08 |
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J&K on threshold of socio-economic transformation: Rather
Srinagar, June 25: (GNS) Minister of State for Defence Rao Inderjit Singh has said that the situation in Kashmir is well under control and better than earlier. Army’s Srinagar based defence spokesman in a statement issued to GNS said that the Minister of State for defence arrived at Srinagar on 23 June and visited Chinar Corps Headquarters on 24 Jun where he was given a detailed briefing on the security situation prevailing in the Valley. “On 25 June, the Minister paid a special visit to the Chinar Corps War Memorial. A solemn ceremony was organized wherein the minister paid rich tributes to the martyrs who See MoS Defence On PG 11..
JKPA holds election, elects office bearers Srinagar, June 25: The Jammu Kashmir Press Association conducted Election at Khidmat Complex on Wednesday, June 25, 2014 where seventy one Members hailing from Jammu, Chenab Valley and Kashmir participated and exercised their franchise. Ghulam Hassan Kaloo, Editor Mirror of Kashmir, Zahoor Ahmad Shora, Editor Roshni and Muhammad Iqbal Wani, Editor Iqbal-e- Kashmir got elected as President, Secretary General and Organizer respectively unopposed. Ashiq Hussain Mir, Editor Vyeth was elected as Finance Secretary after securing 49 votes out of 71 cast by the Members today. It is worth mentioning that the Executive Body of the JKPA decided to go to polls after constituting Election See JKPA On PG 11..
Edit Page Why are young tourists less inclined towards Kashmir? Tourism is a fast growing industry which offers highest number of jobs in the whole world. It is because of this factor that a lot of importance is being attached to this sector. The most beautiful parts of the world have always been attraction for tourists, travelers, adventurers and lovers of nature. But there are places which the man himself has developed as best tourists place despite the fact that there is no natural beauty as compared to former. The tourism in totality has been revolutionized with innovative concepts
See More On Pg 09
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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS: Light Rain would occur at a few places over the state.
FORECAST OF SRINAGAR: Possibility of thunderstorm inthe afternoon. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 29°C & 19°C respectively.
C TEMPERATURE M MAXIMUM Y MINIMUM K
SUNSET ON(THURSDAY) SUNRISE ON (FRIDAY)
29.50C 14.9 0C 07:47 PM 05:23 AM
Jus
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Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
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Sagar for fast pacing dev projects of Srinagar
Blast destroys office of Naib Tehsildar in Poonch’s Balakote
>>>>> PG 10
Kashmir situation better than earlier: MoS Defence
VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 176 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)
>>>>> PG 10
>>>>> PG 11
Haj Pilgrims airfare controversy Civil Aviation minister passes buck on state Govt
Srinagar, June 25: The directorate general of civil aviation has said the Jammu and Kashmir government can take initiatives if it wants to bring the airfare to a desired level. In its reply to a notice shot by State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) following a petition pleading that as compared to other destinations, hike for travel to Kashmir is totally unfair and by all standards is aimed to scuttle the flow of tourists to the valley, the civil aviation department has put the ball in state government’s court. “The initiative of state government on reduction of charges
under their control like reduction of VAT on fuel uplifted from within the state, underwriting of seats, etc may bring the airfare to desired level. With regard to responsibilities of Directorate General Civil Aviation (DGCA), it is stated that this office has not been delegated powers to control airfare establishing mechanism of airlines,” Lalit Gupta, Joint Director General for director general of civil aviation, has said in his reply to SHRC notice. The civil aviation department has said that the matter (notice) has been examined by the department. “Airlines are free
to fix the reasonable tariff under the provision of Sub-Rule (1) of Rule 135, Aircraft Rules 1937 having regard to all relevant factors, including the cost of operation, characteristics of services, reasonable profit and generally prevailing tariff,” the reply of civil aviation reads. It adds: “The airline pricing runs in multiple levels (buckets or RBDs) which is in line with the practice followed globally. The lower rate in the fare bucket is available for advance booking much earlier. As time lapses and date of journey approaches closer, the fare is higher side of fare bucket is made available as per the respective airlines policy. Airlines remain compliant to the regulatory provisions of Rule 135 as long as the fare charged by them does not exceed the fare established and displayed on their website.” The civil aviation department has further replied that with a view to achieve better regulation of air transport services and taking into account the need for air transport services of different regions and remote areas within country, Central government has issued policy on regional See Haj On PG 11..
Children enjoying swimming in world famous Dal Lake in Srinagar on Wednesday
NC- Congress on warpath
NC accuses Soz of playing double role during Lok Sabah elections Srinagar, June 25: National Conference on Wednesday accused Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) President Saifuddin Soz of playing a ‘double role’ in recently held Lok Sabha elections. Talking to KNS, Nazir Gurezi, National Conference leader and minster of State Animal Husbandry, PHE & Flood Control, said: “Prof Soz has visited Gurez to pat Faqir Mohammad Khan former
Future course of action to be taken after accessing ground situation: DIG North Kashmir encounter in Sopore town of Baramulla district. A senior police officer had told KNS that group of youth had started pelting stones at security forces, who returning from Krankishivan Colony of Sopore after accomplishing an counter insurgency operation in which a top Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) militant outfit was killed. DIG North Kashmir Range Ghulam Hassan Bhat told KNS that the situation remained peaceful in Sopore and any decision on relaxation in curfew tomorrow will be taken only after assessing the situation. Security forces had later allegedly opened fire to disperse the protesting youth, resulting in injuries to five of them, the sources said. They said one of the injured, Arshad Ahmad Shah son of Abdul Aziz Shah resident of Naseem Bagh succumbed to injuries while being taken to a hospital. Rest of the four who sustained injuries in the firing have been identified as Naseer Ahmad beigh son of Ghulam Mohiuddin a resident of Jamia Kadeem, Shahid Ahmad son of Kasim Ahangar a resident of Naseem Bagh, Ilyas Shalla son of Attaullah Shalla resident of Shalpora and Abid Gojri resident of Sopore. The situation in the area is tense as more people
Enquiry officer to record statements from June 26 to June 30 Baramulla, June 25 (KNS): The District Magistrate, Baramulla, Dr. Farooq Ahmed Lone, who has been appointed as enquiry officer into the killing of a civilian at Sopore on June 23, 2014, has notified that any person having any knowledge about the said firing incident can depose before him June 26 to June 30, 2014 from 2 pm onwards in his office at Baramulla. According to a notice, issued today, the depositions can be made orally or in the form of written affidavits. It may be recalled the Government constituted an enquiry committee See Enquiry On PG 11.. have taken to streets in protest against the killing. Authorities have imposed a strict curfew in Sopore Wednesday for second consecutive day following killing of a youth on Monday while four others were injured. Reports said that troops have blocked roads with wooden poles and concertina wires to foil any protest march. (KNS)
>>>> Molestation case >>>> Dalai Lama calls for ‘religious harmony’ Minister, aides saved ‘Prefers silence over social boycott against Muslims’The Srinagar, June 25:
spiritual leader of Buddhists Dalai Lama, who is currently on three day visit Zanskar area of Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday called for religious harmony in the regions but ‘didn’t utter a word over social boycott against Muslims’, the local Muslims said. The Zanskar region has seen tensions between the Muslim and Buddhist community since 2012 after 22 ‘low caste’ Buddhist members converted to Islam in Padam area of the region angering Lamas. In September 2012, the tension snow-balled into communal clashes which left
dozens of people injured while many of wounded persons from Muslim community were shifted to SKIMS Soura here in Srinagar. This year also, a clash took place on May 9 in which a Muslim youth was injured after being thrashed by a ‘Buddhist mob’. The exiled Buddhist spiritual leader Dalai Lamai addressed a gathering of Muslim Community at Model Public School Padam. While stressing on religious harmony, the Dalai Lama called on both communities to live in peace and avoid clash with each other. “He called for brotherhood and said all religions teach peace and brotherhood,” Fayaz Wani, the president of Muslim Association, told GNS over phone.Dalai Lama was invited by local See Lama On PG 11..
Director Health
‘My statement was not recorded, probe was a formality’: Lady Complainant Srinagar, June 25, CNS: A day after Health Minister Taj Mohiuddin claimed that molestation charges levelled against Director Health and other officials have proved baseless, the lady complainant Wednesday said that Minister, and some top Health officials utilized all their resources to save the ‘tainted’ Director Health Kashmir. “When I reached Civil Secretariat to record my detailed statement before the Commissioner
Secretary Health, I was asked to go home with the plea that I don’t need to utter anything. That time all the close aides of Director Health Kashmir were present in the office chamber of Commissioner Secretary Health,” lady complainant from South Kashmir Firdousa Akhtar told CNS adding that no stone was left unturned to save the accused Director. She said that the CCTV footage shows when, “I entered and left from the Directorate of Health office but there is no CCTV footage of the office chambers of Chief Accounts Officer (CAO) where the Director assaulted me,” she said. “The Director had claimed that there were number of persons See Case On PG 11..
Srinagar, Jun 25: Two days after a youth in North Kashmir’s Sopore area was killed in a firing incident, the separatist leadership here continues to remain under house arrest on the second consecutive day. According to the reports received by KNS, most of the separatist leaders continue to remain under house confinement days after they issued a strike call against the killing of a 28 year See Arrest On PG 11..
PDP’s model of governance is best suited for J&K: Mufti
Curfew relaxed in Sopore Srinagar, Jun 25: Two days after a youth was killed during the firing at North Kashmir’s Sopore and area continued to reel under the continuous curfew for the 2nd consecutive day, the authorities on Wednesday gave relaxation in the curfew. Talking to KNS, SP Sopore Abdul Qayoom stated that relaxation in the curfew has been given, keeping in view the ground situation after two days. He stated that the police will monitor the situation for the night and that the future course of action shall be taken accordingly on Thursday morning. According to the KNS north Kashmir correspondent, authorities on Wednesday had earlier imposed curfew like restrictions in Kashmir’s apple town to thwart any protest demonstration and ‘unlawful’ activities. Reports maintained that concertina wires and barricades were put in place at various points of the area with several streets sealed by the authorities. Huge deployment of police and other paramilitary forces was made in the region with the inner streets and main roads wearing deserted look. Pertinently, a youth was killed and four others were injured on June 23 when security forces allegedly opened fire to disperse a protest rally following an
MLA and Congress leader who had openly boycotted NC’s Lok Sabha candidate Sahreef-u-Din Shariq, which means that Prof Soz is involved in appreciating and supporting the Congress workers who boycotted National Conference candidate and voted for PDP in recently held Lok Sabha elections.” Gurezi, said that Prof Soz is appreciating See NC On PG 11..
Separatist leaders continue to remain under house arrest
Kotranka-Chasana, June 25 (KNS): Patron of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that PDP’s model of governance is best suited for the state of Jammu and Kashmir. He reminded that PDP, during its tenure of just three years, had proved how to provide corruption free governance to the people by bringing total transparency and accountability in the functioning of the government. According to a statement issued to KNS, while addressing impressive public meetings at Kotranka in Darhal assembly segment and Chasana in Gulabgarh segment, Mufti said that policies and programmes of PDP were formulated by incorporating wishes and aspirations of all sections of the society. “Those who are talking, these days, about model of governance should keep in mind that PDP, during its short span of just three years, had set an example of good gov-
ernance wherein every individual were provided with the equal opportunity of growth and development”, he said, adding, “during its tenure PDP had carved out a path of peace and equitable development and model of governance implemented
by the party is best in all aspects” Recalling the pre-2002 situation, Mufti reminded that gathering that there was total chaos, anarchy, and rampant corruption and the atmosphere of uncertainty and insecurity had gripped the State when PDP led coalition government was formed. “Through its See Mufti On PG 11..
Corruption problem
Mir, Kamal speak in same tune
Srinagar, Jun 25 : Expressing serious concern over the rising menace of corruption in Jammu and Kashmir, agriculture minister Ghulam Hassan Mir and senior NC leader Dr Shiekh Mustafa Kamal Wednesday stated that serious efforts must be initiated to put an end to the crises that could damage the foundations of the society. According to the reports received by KNS, the seminar was organized by Al-Huda College of education in association with the media association Pattan. Addressing the seminar, Ghulam Hassan Mir, the minister for agriculture said that the society needs to go for self introspection and also the media has a pivotal role to play in curbing the corruption menace in the state. Mir said that both people and the government have an equal role in to play to put an end to the corruption. The seminar titled Corruption and the role of citizens in erad-
icating the menace witnessed the participation of agriculture minister Ghulam Hassan Mir and senior NC leader Dr Shiekh Mustafa Kamal besides various police and civil authorities. Besides Islamic scholar Dr Nazir the PDP chief coordinator Shahzad Asim was also present during the occasion. Others who spoke during the occasion include DIG North Ghulam Hassan Bhat who gave patient hearing to the questions posed to him by the students. He stated that there must be the serious efforts from the youth so that corruption could be eradicated. He stated that there are formal laws against the corruption in the state and that people must raise voice wherever if one is found nourishing the menace. SSP Baramulla Suhail Mir, senior Journalist Qaramat Qayoom, KNS Baramulla bureau Chief Lateef Ahmad Bhat, KMN bureau chief Rahi Nissar. (KNS)
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Srinagar, Thursday 26 June 2014
comprising District Magistrate Baramulla to ascertain the factual position with respect to the causes and circumstances of the firing incident that took place in Krankshivan, Sopore on June 23, 2014 leading to the death of one civilian, Arshad Ahmad Shah S/O Abdul Aziz Shah R/O Naseem Bagh, Sopore and injuries to four other persons. (KNS)
Mufti conviction and vision, PDP led government had created sense of security among residents of Jammu and Kashmir”, Mufti recalled and mentioned that PDP led regime had simultaneously pursued the agenda of development, peace and reconciliation in the State and restored dignity and honour of the people. “We, through our convictions, had changed mindset of the BJP leadership and convinced the then NDA government at the Centre to take concrete steps to restore peace in J&K and to normalize relations with Pakistan”, he said. Mufti, however, regretted that present regime headed by National Conference has derailed the process of peace and development in the State. “It is very unfortunate that the present regime has failed to carry forward the agenda of peace initiated by the previous PDP led regime”, he said Mufti further pointed out that that PDP led coalition regime had laid a foundation of mutual trust and confidence among inhabitants of different regions and sub-regions of the State. PDP patron further observed that present regime has also failed to carry forward the agenda of development initiated by the previous PDP led regime. He said that on the one hand corruption has been crossed all limits in the state while on the other hand system has completely been collapsed in the State. Reiterating his resolve to pursue the agenda of peace and development, he said,“in the state of Jammu and Kashmir PDP’s model of governance is best suited to address aspirations of all regions and sub-regions”. PDP patron, while assuring to formulate a comprehensive policy for the development of backward areas, said that this region has huge potential of horticulture. “There is a need to give special focus to this region to exploit horticulture potential”, he said and assured that PDP would utilize services of experts to develop this region as hub of horticultural activities especially in growing walnuts and related products. Yash Pal Sharma, MLC, Choudhary Zulfikar, MLA Budhal, Basharat Bukhari, MLA, Sangrama, Qayoom Dar, district president, Ashad Bari Shah, candidate
JKPA Authority with G.N. Noorani as its Chairman and assisted by Mukhtar Ahmad Wani, Editor Nigran and Ghulam Rasool of Kashmir Rays. The Election Authority issued a proper Notification on June 16, 2014 with detailed conditions and gave a wide publicity to ensure full participation of the registered members. Two members namely Vajeeh Ahmad Andrabi and Tariq Mohidin had also filed forms for the post of Secretary General, but later withdrew from the contest, thereby leaving Zahoor Ahmad Shora alone for the post. The JKPA had conducted Election in December, 2010 when it was Kashmir Press Association and later re-designated as JK Press Association when Mediamen from Jammu and Chenab Valley also joined it.
FRESH NOTICE INVITING E- TENDERS E-NIT NO:- CEJ/PMGSY/276 OF 2014-15 DATED : 17-06-2014
Class of contractor
Tender of call
Total
hief Engineer PMGSY (JKRRDA) Jammu on behalf of the Government of J&K state, invites Fresh e-tenders on item rate basis from approved and eligible contractors registered with J&K state govt, CPWD, Railways or equilvant and other state Govt up to 2:00 Pm on 09-07-2014 for each the following works including Defect Liability & maintenance period of five year after construction. PMGSY is fully funded by the Ministry of Rural Development Government of India (Except for maintenance part to be borne by the state Government) Estimated cost S. Name of work/Package No Name of (Rs in Lacs) Cost of Earnest Time Time and No Division documents money Allowed date of (Rs in lacs) (Rs in lacs) for opening completion of tender
Construction and maintenance of road 46.58 2.80 49.38 0.060 0.99 09 Months 2nd from channel to pardhay, package No JK14-333, phase vill stage ii Black Majalta Diswtrict Udhampur 2 Construction and maintenance of road 432.05 25.92 459.95 0.060 9.16 12 months 2nd from Black Boundary Ghardi to kotwali Stage iind Package No JK14-205 phase vill Black Ramnagar District udhampur 3 Construction and maintenance of three 234.27 14.06 248.33 0.060 4.97 09 Months 5th roads: (i) Dhar road laray to sumal Package No JK14-335 stage ii Black Majalta phase vill District Udhampur(ii)Nakki to Amwara package no jk14-336 phase vill stage ii Black majalta District Udhmpur (iii) Dhar road to also package No jk14-337 phase Viii stage ii black majalla district Udhampur 4 Construction and maintenance of road 426.32 25.58 451.90 0.060 9.04 12 Months 5th from Dhar road Sonlote to Garh Samnabani package No JK14-248 phase vill stage II black Dudu District Udhampur 5 Construction and maintenance of road 129.24 7.75 136.99 0.060 2.74 09 Months 5th from Kaghole to lerhi Shumb package No JK14-243 phase vill stage ii Black Ramnagar District Udhampur 6 Construction and maintenance of road 208.9 12.33 221.43 0.060 4.43 09 Months 5th from plassion to punger package No JK 14-242 phase viii stage ii Block Ramnagar District Udhmpur 7 Construction and maintainance of road 303.38 18.20 321.58 0.060 6.43 12 Months 7th from Kamlana to Banjan Black Dude phase vill stage IInd package no JK14 247 District Udhampur 8 Construction and maintenance of road 188.68 11.32 200.00 0.060 4.00 09 Months 7th from Sullian to kela Black Ramnagar phase viii stage IInd package No jk14 328 district Udhampur 9 Construction and maintenance of road 341.53 20.49 362.02 0.060 7.24 12 Months 7th from Sunatar khas to Dhanwalth Black Ramnagar phase viii stage iind package No JK14 351 District Udhampur 10 Construction and maintenance of two no 332.29 19.94 352.23 0.060 7.04 12 Months 13th roads:- i) Lange to Marta Rashela package no JK14-195 ii) Dalhar to Amrah package No Jk14-201 Black Ramnagar phase vii stage II District Udhampur 11 Construction ans maintenance of road from 128.06 7.68 135.74 0.060 2.71 09 months 7th Sannabanj to Sanal black Dudu phase viii No JK14-325 District Udhampur 12 Construction and maintenance of balance 272.02 17.38 289.40 0.060 5.78 09 Months 7th work of road from Kangloo to Pachaund Black Dudu phase vi stage lInd package no JK14-88 District Udhampur 13 Construction and maintenance of road from 208.96 12.53 221.49 0.060 4.43 09 Months 7th Trilla Sunetar to Kotheel Ganjoo Black Ramnagar phase viii stage iind package no JK14-241District Udhampur 14 Construction and maintenance of road from 332.00 19.92 351.92 0.060 7.04 12 Months 7th Lehri Shumb to Khein Black Ramnagar phase viiii stage IInd package no JK14-327 District udhampur 15 Construction and maintenance of two roads;216.15 12.97 229.12 0.060 4.58 09 Months 7th (i)Plassion to Darwala package no jk14-244 phase vii stage ii Black Ramnagar District udhampur (ii) Rang to Bland package no jk 14-326 phase viii stage IInd Black Ramnagar District udhampur 16 Construction and maintenance of road from 251.61 15.09 266.70 0.060 5.33 09 months 7th plassain to Rung Black Ramnagar phase vill stage Ramnagar phase vill stage IInd package No JK14-321 District Udhampur 17 Construction and maintenance of balance 136.93 9.62 146.55 0.060 2.93 09 Months 7th work of road from plassain to Balnsta Black Ramnagar phase vi stage IInd package No JK14-89 District Udhampur 18 Construction and maintenance of road 639.46 38.36 677.82 0.060 13.55 15 Months 2nd kulwanta to Bari Ladane package No JK14206 phase viii stage ii Black Ramnagar District Udhampur 19 Construction and maintenance of road 434.54 26.07 460.61 0.060 9.21 12 months 2nd Kulwanta black boundary Ramnagar to offer -I package No JK14-246 phase viii stage ii Black dude District Udhampur 20 Construction and maintenance of road 138.75 8.32 147.07 0.060 2.94 09 Months 2nd Dhar road to Kalmah package No JK14340 phase viii stage ii Black Majalta District Udhampur Any registered contractor/Hot Mix plant Holder with state PWD/CPWD Railways or equivalent qualifying eligibility critical as provided in the standard bidding document can tender for the works The bidding document can be download from the website http://pmgsytendersjk.gov.in from 06:55 Pm on 23-06-2014 to 09-07-2014 (5.00 PM) 2 The bids shall be deposited in electronic format on the website http://pmgsytendersjk.gov.in from 05.00 Pm on 26 -6-2014 to 2.00 Pm on 09-07-2014 The bid received will be opened at 10.00 AM on 12-07-2014 If the office happens to be closed on the date of opening of the bids as specified the bids will be opened on the next working day at the same time and venue. 2 b The complete bidding process will be online 2c A Pre bid meeting will be held on 26-06-2014 ef.12.00 Noon in the office of chief Engineer PMGSY (JKRRDA) Jammu to clarify the issues and to answer questions on any matter that may be raised at that stage as started in clause 9 instruction to bidder of the bidding documents 3 important note: Any information provided on the formate other than those prescribed in the section 3 of SBD shall not be accepted and the bid shall be treated non responsive out rightly. 4 It is for the information of all the prospective bidders that all firms /companies engaged in civil construction works shall enter into the tendering process only through their Managing Director or Directors or General managers or Proprietor or partner of their firm forming part of their establishment (s) no private party can be nominated as their authority signatory for entering into any contact of PMGSY works 5 For further complete details identity visit our website http://pmgsytendersjk.gov.in
DIPK No 2493
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have laid their lives defending the Nation”, the stateme n t said , ad d in g t h at “ Se n ior Army of f ic e rs p ost e d in t h e Bad ami Bagh C an t onme n t w e re p re se n t d u rin g t h e c e re mon y ” . T h e v isit of t h e min ist e r assu me s imp ort an c e as it c ome s c l ose t o t h e re c e n t v isit of d e f e n c e Min ist e r t o t h e Val l e y , t h e st at e me n t said . “ W h e n ask e d re gard in g t h e p re v ail in g se c urit y sit u at ion in V al l e y , I n d e rj it Sin gh c on v e y e d t h at t h e sit u at ion is w e l l u n d e r c ont rol an d b e t t e r t h an e arl ie r. C omme n d in g t h e Se c u rit y Forc e s, t h e Min ist e r said t h at t h e p re se n t sit u at ion is d u e t o t h e e f f ort s an d re st rain t sh ow n b y t h e Se c u rit y Forc e s w h o h av e e n su re d t h at t h e sit uation does not out of bounds”, the statement added. (GNS)
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ENGINEER PMGSY (JKRRDA) JAMMU
Any registration contractor / hot mix plant holds with state PHD/CPWD railways for equilvent qualifying eligibility critically as provided in the standard bidding documents can tender for the months
Enquiry
MoS Defence
GOVERNMENT OF JAMMU & KASHMIR,
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youth Arshad Ahmad Shah. The reports maintained that as the situation in the summer capital turned normal after three days, the authorities here didn’t lift the restrictions imposed earlier on the pro-freedom camp. The senior Hurriyat Conference (G) leaders including Mohammad Ashraf Sehrai, Altaf Ahmad Shah, Ayaz Akbar and Peer Saifulllah remained under house arrest. Also the deployment continues to remain in force outside the residence of the senior separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani. The police sources told KNS that the separatist leaders will continue to remain under house arrest till the charum of the slain youth of Sopore is observed. (KNS)
present in his office chamber when I met her, but he did not mention that the meeting between us took place at CAO’s chamber. I demanded to check the CCTV footage of that office and truth will come to fore,” the lady complainant told CNS. The Staff Nurse further added that it was true that I met the Director Health in presence of many persons, but the fact is that he directed me to wait outside. “When I came out from bathroom he was coming down from stairs. As he saw me, he asked me to wait for him in the CAO’s office where nobody was present,” she said adding that there is not an iota of doubt that the accused used his influence to impress upon the higher officials to prove him innocent. She accused Health Minister of saving the Director Health and said that it was inappropriate on part of Health Minister to tell her that, ‘keep your history with you, I know everything.’ “How and why before the completion of the probe the Health Minister termed the allegations baseless while the Director mislead the media,” she said adding that if inquiry would have been fair then her detailed statement could have recorded in an appropriate manner. (CNS)
nel KP Mishra of 49 RR, Deputy Commander 13 Sector Colonel T C Malhotra and 120 Brigade Commander. Interestingly, the camp of army’s 120 TA unit camp is around 100 meters away from the Naib Tehsildar Office. Meanwhile, the police have started investigations in this regard and have detained Talib Hussain, an employee, for questioning, official sources said. (GNS)
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Arrest
Case
stroyed now. To take stock of the situation, the senior civil, police and army officials rushed to the spot. The officials include Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Mendhar Surrendar Chowdhary, Sub-District Magistrate (SDM) Ramesh Kumar, Tehsildar Mendhar Muhammad Rafiq Shah, Naib Tehsildar Mendhar, Aftab Ahmad Shah, Commander Officer 37 RR Colonel Satindra Singh, Colo-
Maintenance
the congress workers who voted against national Conference candidate in north Kashmir. “It is now open that Prof Soz is involved in cross voting against NC candidate. He had disowned Faqir Khan and now he is receiving that person warmly. Soz Saheb is on record to distance himself from the statement of Faqir Khan in which he had said that he will boycott NC Lok Sabha candidate in Gurez.” The NC minister said that he is not sure about Prof Soz’s clandestine support to Congress workers for supporting PDP candidates but in Gurez: “The way he (Prof Soz) has now received Faqir Khan shows that Prof Soz had two faces in the recently concluded Lok Sabah elections.” It may be recalled that on March 23, Faqir Mohammad Khan had announced a complete boycott of Shareef-u-Din Shariq, the coalition candidate who lost the recently held Lok Sabha elections from North Kashmir. Talking to KNS, Khan had said: “The Congress workers here have decided to go for a complete boycott of National Conference candidate as the coalition government has failed us on every front.” He had alleged that the National Conference led coalition government has benefited only NC workers and the Congress cadres have been left high and dry. “Our (Congress) workers have been ignored and neglected by this coalition government to the hilt,” he said, adding that the Lok Sabha elections would witness a complete boycott of the NC candidate from Baramulla Lok Sabah constituency. However, when contacted Prof Saifuddin Soz had told KNS that that Khan’s opinion was his personal and the Congress had nothing to do with it. “I am sorting out such statements. It can be an individual statement. We are duty bound to support our coalition partner in the three seats of Kashmir valley as they will do it for us in the three seats of Jammu and Ladakh.” Soz had told KNS on March 23. “I am thankful to the National Conference for its whole hearted support to our candidates. We have to go together and there is no question of not supporting the NC candidates in the three seats of Valley,” Soz had told KNS.
Muslim groups, a resident told GNS. Fayaz said they also presented a memorandum to Dalai Lama in which they mentioned the ‘hardships Muslim community is facing since 2012 at the hands of Buddhist community in the region’. He, however, expressed his displeasure over Dalai Lama’s silence over ‘social boycott’ against Muslims. “He did not utter a single word over it. Though we were expecting that he would also speak over it,” he said, adding: “In memorandum, we had also mentioned the issue of social boycott against us’. “His Holiness Dalai Lama today addressed Muslim community. He spoke over the unity and appealed both the communities to live peacefully,” Muhammad Shafi, a local government teacher, told GNS over phone. “However,” Shafi said, “He was silent over social boycott against Muslims.” The local Muslim population has been saying that since 2012, Buddhist community has enforced social boycott against them. The Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Zanskar, Feroz Ahmad Khan, while talking to GNS said he also met Dalai Lama and apprised him about the situation. “I told him to play role in normalizing situation and I also told him about the issue of social boycott,” he said. Fayaz, like many other Muslim community members, is hopeful that ‘hardships which Muslims are facing’ would end after Dalai Lama’s visit. “He told us that he has conveyed to Buddhists to maintain peace,” Fayaz said. (GNS)
Construction
NC
Lama
Poonch, June 25: The office of a senior revenue official was destroyed in an explosion in border district of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir, official sources told GNS on Wednesday. Official sources told GNS that last night at around 1:15 am, a powerful explosion, apparently triggered by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) rocked the office of Naib Tehsildar Assistant Collector First Class Bhimber Gali (BG) Balakote located at BG Dhargalol in Mendhar Tehsil of the district. “The blast completely destroyed the one storey building comprising of four rooms while the official record has also been lost. It was intense and created fear among residents,” witnesses and locals told GNS. The charge of the Naib Tehsildar post was vacant since more than two months while Aftab Ahmad Shah, who is Naib Tehsildar Mendhar, had been given additional charge of the post, official sources said. They said Qazi Muneer was appointed yesterday for the vacant post and he was scheduled to join duty today on Wednesday. Besides, two fourth class employees Amjad Naseer and Talib Hussain are working in the office, which has been completely de-
RAMNAGAR
and remote areas connectivity vide order number AV 1303/34/2012-DT dated March 4, 2014. “With regard to control on airfare, it is stated that state governments are important stake holders.” On April 17, the SHRC issued notices asking director civil aviation Safdarjung, Station Airport New Delhi and all in-charges of airline companies operating in Jammu and Kashmir sector including Indigo, Spice-jet, Air India, Go-Air, Jet Airways to file their respective reports on an unprecedented airfare hike. In his complainant filed by M. M. Shuja General Secretary Peoples Forum has projected grievances regarding hike in the airfare by airline companies operating in Jammu and Kashmir sector saying that the general public as well as travel associations have also highlighted the matter. “The contents of the complaint reveal that tourism in Kashmir valley has got adversely affected by this unbridled hike,” the order passed by the SHRC reads. (KNS)
Blast destroys office of Naib Tehsildar in Poonch’s Balakote
RAMNAGAR
Haj
Kalakote, Shafiq Choudhary, Ch Ali Mohammad, Shamima Akthar, Abdul Rashid Trabi, Mushi Alam Din, Sardar Chouhan, Mohammad Shafi, Arshad Malik, Adv Sarwar Mir, Mohammad Isreal, A R Wani, Farooq Inqulabi, Mushtaq, Sheikh Altaf, Aijaz Magrey, Abdul Rashid, Haji Mohammad Sharief, Haji Mohammad Gani Shah, Haji Mohammad Gani Sheikh, Abdul Rashid and others also spoke on the occasions. During the public meeting at Kotranka Kabir Malik, retired ADC, Naseem Malik, retired DC and Aijaz Mirza joined PDP. At Chasana, prominent Congress leader advocate Shafiq ur Rehman along with hundreds of his supporters joined PDP. Prominent among those who joined PDP along with Shafiq ur Rehman included Haji Abdul Rashid Khan, Kapoor Singh, Ali Mohammad Malik, Sheikh Mohammad, Bashir Ahmed Bhat, Tanyat Singh, Nazir Ahmed, Abdul Rashid Khan, Nazir Ahmed Bhat, Qamir Din, Farooq Ahmed and others.
RAMNAGAR
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Zabarwan Times
RAMNAGAR
07
Sd/- Chief Engineer PMGSY (JJRRDA) Jammu Signature and Designation at the authority inviting tenders For and on behalf of the Governor J&K state
Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik Legal Advisor: Syed Riyaz Hussain 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
Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
NEWS
J&K on threshold of socioeconomic transformation: Rather
Workshop on Master Plan preparation held
dence Tuslibagh Srinagar today. will give boost to tourism activiHe said an amount of about Rs ties in the area.Cautioning about 1.20 crore has been released out the machinations of the political of his Constituency Development opponents, Mr. Rather asked the Fund (CDF) to give impetus to the people not to get swayed by their development works in various baseless propaganda about the areas of Chrar-i-Sharief Constitu- present government adding that ency with special emphasis on the state has witnessed a golden SRINAGAR JUNE-25- Assert- improving power supply, upgra- era of development during the ing that J&K is on the threshold dation of roads, lane and commu- five and half year of the present of a far reaching socio-economic nity centres.Addressing a public government. He asked the people transformation, the Minister for gathering comprising senior citi- to be united and defeat nefarious Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr zens and gross root functionaries designs of the opposition parties Abdul Rahim Rather today said at his official residence Tuslibagh who want to grab the power by undevelopmental tempo has been Srinagar today, Mr. Rather said leashing falsehood and deceit. “They will come in different further accelerated in the nock that in order to bring green revoand corner of the State. He said an lution in the upper belt of Charar- guises before you to exploits your amount of about Rs 1.20 crore has i-Sharief constituency, the Arzan sentiments but we should not get been released out of his Constitu- Garzan Irrigation Dam will be re- mislead by their false propaganda”, ency Development Fund (CDF) to vived at a cost of Rs. 30 crore. He Mr. Rather cautioned. He said opgive impetus to the development said two new Receiving Station position is so desperate that they works in various areas of Chrar-i- at Nowpora and Pakherpora will are trying to polarize the society Sharief Constituency with special also be set up to further improve on regional and religion basis not emphasis on improving power power supply in the constituency withstanding that fact that it was supply, upgradation of roads, lane adding that work on reconstruc- against the rich secular traditions and community centres.Address- tion of Maharaja road from Chow- of the state. He said J&K is a single ing a public gathering compris- dhary Gund to Buzgoo-Nilnag has entity and any conspiracy to dising senior citizens and gross root been expedited at a cost of Rs. 6.50 integrate it would be fraught with Khan full News Agency Ganderbal crore.Kangan The road on completion might. functionaries at his Lone officialNews resi-Agency
Releases Rs 1.20 cr out of CDF for accelerating dev tempo in Chrar
Zabarwan Times is available at
SRINAGAR | THURSDAY
SRINAGAR, JUNE-25- Special Secretary, Housing Mr. Mohammad Akbar Ganai inaugurated Day-long State level workshop on Master Plan “Formation of GIS based Master Plan using BHUVAN-NUIS” here today. The workshop was organized by Town Planning Organization, Kashmir in collaboration with Town & Country Planning Organization, Union Ministry of Urban Development and National Remote Sensing Centre, Hyderabad. The Special Secretary stressed the need for adopting the NUIS tools and methods in an effective way while preparing the Master plan for the cities and towns of the state. He also called for proper implementation of Master Plan on ground, saying that plan on paper is not sufficient. He said that the strategy for preparation of Plan for the cities and towns should
Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora Bhat News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency KunzarReviews the Dar Newsseveral Agency welfare Beerwah schemes Departments Bashir News AgencyasSumbal as early functioning of ConductsReshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Pattan for upliftment and improv- possible. ing the living Bandipora standards of During thePampore Basharat News Agency Reyaz the Newstour, Agency Co-operative extensive tour weaker sections of the so- Speaker alsoNews addressed se-Qazigund Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid Agency ciety.Agency He sought peoples’ ries of public in Societies on Baramulla G.M Newsmeetings Agency Sopore of EidgahJeelani News cooperation for implement- the area. He said that the Shah News Agency Kupwara Sultan News Agency Handwara ing these programmes and present Government has ground constituency Younis News Agency Langate Agency policies of the Government givenSheikh focusedNews attention to- Islamabad Way News Agency Tral BUDGAM, JUNE 25: on Agency ground. Islamabad wardsThree the all-round develSRINAGAR, JUNEReshi 25:News Secretary to Government, Gul inspected pace opment of the State addingBijbehara Agency Tral Badru News Agency Speaker, Jammu andTurray Kash- NewsMr. Cooperative Department ofAgency progressKulgam on several under that Malik keen News attention wasArwani Rahi News Agency mir Legislative Assembly Mr. R.K. Koul today visited projects, taken up givenShaheen to expand education, Mr. Mubarak Gul Rah today Newsexecution Agency Byepass News Agency Kargil
be envisioned for long run. Referring to National Urban Information System (NUIS), the Special Secretary said that it is a Thematic Geospatial database scale prepared from high resolution satellite data for towns and cities, as basic spatial input for Master plan preparation. He called for effective utilisation of these database elements to provide the access of the NUIS towns' geospatial databases to the Urban Local Bodies through Bhuvan Geoportal, developed by NRSC/ ISRO.Director, Local Bodies, Mr. Hilal Parray also spoke on the occasion, saying that NUIS is a new domain dealing with the problems erupted due to rapid urbanization. He said that the participants would also get benefitted with the deliberations held during the workshop. NUIS a web based geospatial framework and software tools designed and developed.
Secretary Co-operative Govt committed to ensure department visits Budgam speedy dev of State: Gul
maintained that the Government is committed to ensuring speedy overall development of the State by undertaking different schemes in R&B, PHE, PDD, SMC etc The Speaker was interacting with officers and people of different areas during his extensive tour of the Eidgah Constituency. Mr. Gul said that the Government has launched
under core sectors for improving basic facilities in the area. He instructed the concerned Engineers and Officers to ensure use of quality material and judicious utilization of funds for creating durable infrastructure. Interacting with the people, he assured them that their genuine individual problems and developmental needs would be got redressed from concerned
Rs. 11,000 realized from erring handicraft traders SRINAGAR, JUNE 25: State of Jammu & Kashmir has witnessed a huge inflow of tourists, which has thrown out new business opportunities in the hither to untouched areas. A number of Handicrafts business establishments have come up along the road side from Narbal to Tangmarg tourist area, where tourists are visiting to purchase genuine handicrafts made by Kashmiri artisans. In order to ensure that these establishments are running their businesses in conformity to the J&K Tourist Trade Act 1978 and also to safeguard the interests of tourists visiting the state, an enforcement team of Directorate of Handicrafts conducted surprise inspection of Handicrafts Showrooms in Narbal, Chichlora, Waripora, Kunzar, Dhobiwan, Nishat and Shalimar tourist areas. During the course of inspection, it was found that some of the handicrafts business establishments are violating the norms of the above said Act. On spot fine was imposed on the erring dealers and an amount of Rs 11,000/-was realized as fine.It has been impressed upon all the handicrafts dealers that their businesses shall fall within the ambit of J&K Tourist Trade Act 1978, as per which it is mandatory for them to acquire a valid Tourist Trade Registration Certificate from Directorate of Handicrafts. The dealers should refrain from indulging in any kind of malpractice which includes cheating, dishonesty, touting, impersonation, charging exorbitant prices, failure to display price on the labels, failure to give cash memo’s etc. The inspection teams are closely monitoring all such business activities and action as warranted under J&K Tourist Trade Act, 1978 shall be initiated against defaulters.
health, road connectivity, drinking water and power supply facilities in all the regions of the State. Referring to the developmental works under execution in the area, the Speaker said that the construction work on various developmental works under different sectors is apace and on completion of these projects it will change the developmental scenario of the area.
the office of Deputy Registrar Co-operative Societies Budgam and District Audit Officer, Co-operative Societies District Budgam to take stock of different activities and review the functioning of the Co-operative Societies. The Secretary emphasized the need of reenergizing the cooperative sector in the district, so that the benefit of the schemes
erative Societies including Nidah Poultry Co-operative Marketing Society Ichkote, Wolliona Poultry Co-Operative Marketing Society Ltd. Wolliona Ichgam, Gousia Co-operative Educational Institute Panzan, Wagam Poultry Cooperative Marketing Society Wagam Chadoora, sale and service Co-operative Society Chadoora of the district and asked for making these societies more vibrant. Among others, Additional Registrar Cooperative Societies, Kashmir, Deputy Registrar Co-operative Societies, Kashmir, Deputy Registrar Cooperative Societies, Budgam, District Audit Officer Cooperative Societies, Budgam and Assistant Registrar Cooperative Societies Budgam and the field staff of the department attended.
Deputations calls on PHE Minister SRINAGAR, JUNE 25: Describing the engineers as backbone of the society, Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr Sham Lal Sharma has said that they have significant
role for developing the infrastructure of the State. This was stated by the Minister while interacting with the delegation of All J&K in service Diploma Engineers Association here today. The delegation led by its President Mr.
Gulal Ahmad Shah projected their several demands before the Minister, which include promotion of Junior Engineer (Diploma) against newly created 272 posts of Assistant Engi-
neers, maintenance of cadre strength as per prevailing rules and filling of vacant posts of Assistant Executive Engineers and Executive Engineers of Diploma cadre and release of Junior Engineer grade-I upto September, 2011 (back log).Mr Sham Lal said
Sagar for fast pacing dev projects of Srinagar SRINAGAR, JUNE 25: Asking the officers to fast pace various development projects undertaken for the comprehensive and sustained development of Srinagar, the Minister for rural Development and Panchayats Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that the same is necessary for ensuring timely completion of these programmes. The Minister was interacting with officers during his extensive tour of Srinagar city to get first hand information about implementation and status of various programmes undertaken under different sectors like Housing, R&B, PHE, PDD, SMC, etc he was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Mr. Farooq Ahmed Shah, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Dr. G. N. Qasba, Managing Director JKHB, Mr. Rampaul, Chief Engineer R&B, Mr. Bimal Tickoo and other senior officers of PDD, JKPCC.
reaches the rural masses. On the occasion, the Deputy Registrar Cooperative Societies Budgam gave a detailed account of the activities and progress of the department during previous fiscal. It was given out in the review meeting that the total number of functional Co-operative Societies in the district is 102 and the quantum of funds released for poultry sector through NCDC was Rs. 4.03 crores during 2013-14. The total business turnover was Rs. 20.57 crores which includes sale of fertilizers also. It was also disclosed in the meeting that 24 lakhs litres of kerosene oil was supplied to the consumers in the district through co-operative sector during previous financial year. Later, the Secretary also visited various Co-op-
The Minister directed MD Housing Board to develop the areas in the vicinity of the prestigious cable car project and ensure that they are developed into leisure parks for the general convenience of the people living in the area. He said that the government has undertaken a comprehensive programme for developing the area around the revered shrine on the heritage pattern and Naggar-Nagar Project is an initiative in this regard. Mr. Sagar also inspected the pace of work on the community hall being constructed at Makhdoom Sahib and asked for the early completion of the same. He said that it would go a long way in providing the much requisite assets to the people of the locality and catchment area for celebrating their social functions. The Minister also inspected the pace of work on the prestigious KZP and SMS road projects and directed
the officers to speed up the pace of work on the same as it is one of the important initiatives undertaken by the Government for regulating the traffic movement in the Srinagar city. He said that the adequate compensation should be provided to the persons whose properties have been acquired for carrying out road widening and other related things. Mr. Sagar also directed for speeding up of leftover restoration work of the revered shrine of Dastigir Sahib (RA) and said the due care should be taken to ensure its time bound completion. He said that the requisite funds have already been placed at the disposal of the executing agencies. Minister also inspected the work on the expansion project of the Naqashband Sahib Shrine and directed for its early completion. He said that the acquisition if necessary should also be done.
the Government is aware about their genuine problems and assured for their early redressal. Another deputation from Payer, Pulwama led by Namberdar, Ghulam Mohammad also met the Minister to project their demands including Irrigation, restoration of local canal and other irrigation related facilities. Several other deputations from different areas of the State also met the Minister and put forth their local demands before the Minister. The Minister gave patient hearing to the deputationists and individuals and said that he will take up the issues with the appropriate authorities for their immediate redressal.Chief Engineer, PHE, Irrigation and flood Control, Kashmir, Mir Javed Jaffer and other senior officer of concerned department were also present on the occasion.
KVK organizes ‘’Plant Clinic Camp’’ BANDIPORA, JUNE 25: A daylong ‘’Plant Clinic Camp’’ was organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Bandipora at Nesbal Sonawari with regard to control various diseases prevailing in orchards.The camp was attended by the Scientists of KVK, field functionaries of Horticulture department besides a large number of fruit growers.During the camp, the farmers raised several problems faced by them in managing diseases of fruit trees. The Scientists of KVK Bandipora assisted the farmers in improving diagnostic skills for identifying various diseases of fruit trees.
JFC Kaloosa lifts football trophy BANDIPORA, JUNE 25: Jamal Football Club (JFC) Kaloosa lifts Dada Sir League Football Trophy beating Iqbal Sports Football Club Kaloosa by 4-0 in the final match played at S.K. Sports Stadium Bandipora.The tournament was organized by District Football Association, Bandipora. Assistant Commissioner Revenue Bandipora, Mr. S. A. Raina, Association President, Mr. N.D. Wani, Senior Officers, Traders Federation, respectable and sports lovers witnessed the final match.
26. 06 .2014
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
Don’t discount your ability to be extremely resourceful if you need to be, Aries. If you don’t have everything you need or all of the required information, take time to think. Who can you ask? What places can you access? Who might know where you can find what you need? Rather than panic because the pieces aren’t all there, instead make a list of contacts and go for it. Trust in yourself.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Try not to let today’s blues get you down, Taurus. While it’s true that some days can seem to drag on, the busier you are the faster time will pass. Get down to finishing any work still before you and then make plans for tonight. If there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, not only will things seem to speed up but you’ll feel better knowing it’s coming.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Dare to be different, Gemini. It can be so easy to fall into a drill. Sleeping at the same time, eating at the same time, wearing the same style, and going about work the same way day after day. Before you know it, you feel like you’re in a rut. The only way to get away from this is to make a decision to break free by doing something unique. Try a new haircut. Wear colors that are unusual for you. If the need is there, consider a new career. Pursue expansion.
Cancer June 22-July 22
If your lifestyle is considerably different than that of others, resist feeling self-conscience about it today, Cancer. Try to remember that you chose the life you have for specific reasons. Even if you’ve come to a point where you’re considering a change, there’s no need to feel badly, ashamed, or embarrassed about where you are now. Everyone has to make his or her own way. If this conforms to the norm, that’s fine. If it doesn’t, that’s fine, too.
Leo
July 23-August 22 An enhanced feeling of determination could motivate you today, Leo. Finish the things that aren’t complete and make some plans for this evening. Don’t hesitate to take on something that feels complicated or big. Chances are you’ll be able to handle most anything and it will feel great when it’s finished. Enjoy your day by making the most of opportunity.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Feeling the effects of today’s energies, Virgo? Take heart if this is the case, because the end of the tunnel isn’t as far away as it seems. Do your best to take things one step at a time and see about making some plans for a little fun this evening. Get together with friends or take in a movie. Help yourself feel better by staying busy and focused and follow up with some recreation. Before you know it, the aspect will pass and you’ll be back to normal.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Consider making some plans for a vacation or short getaway, Libra. Looking forward to something fun can make even the toughest of days far easier to handle. You’ll be amazed how much you can manage when there’s an end in plain sight. Your entire attitude can lighten. So take the bull by the horns and create an incentive for yourself. Do something special to reward the hard work you do day after day.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 Don’t judge someone if he or she has a different lifestyle than what you consider to be OK, Scorpio. You probably lean toward the traditional, yet not everyone feels this way about relationships, working, or lifestyle. While it may seem impossible to understand and even frighten you, try not to be too harsh on those you deem odd. You’d be better off using that energy to keep your own life on track.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Friends seeking advice or a shoulder to cry on could be plentiful today, Sagittarius. You’re one of best people to give them the support and care they need. Just be sure that you don’t give so much to others that you don’t have anything left for yourself. True friendship is about sharing and the exchange of problems and help. Running yourself down will leave you in a place where you aren’t going to be much help to anyone.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Getting through today shouldn’t pose too big a problem for you, Capricorn. You may feel a huge second wind that can give you the drive and determination to see your chores and projects through. Make some plans for this evening, such as getting together with friends or taking in an event that really intrigues you. Until then, go about your tasks bit by bit. You’ll get things finished before you know it.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Working within boundaries and restrictions could really get to you today, Aquarius. Yours is an independent spirit and your best achievements are often born of doing things your own way. Yet like it or not, we all have to follow guidelines and rules. Do your best to follow suit and finish what needs to be done. Afterward, you may find more freedom to act independently without consequences. Exercise patience and diligence as needed today.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 Chances are that you’ll feel upbeat and positive today, Pisces. Consider sharing this energy with those around you who are feeling less than content. Your attitude can have a profound effect on friends, partners, spouses, and children. Even neighbors and extended family can pick up on your spirit without you even realizing it. Share your optimism with everyone you can today. If you see someone hurt or angry.
EDITORIAL/ OPINION Qoute of the day I’d rather live with a good question than a bad answer.
Aryeh Frimer
Why are young tourists less inclined towards Kashmir?
T
ourism is a fast growing industry which offers highest number of jobs in the whole world. It is because of this factor that a lot of importance is being attached to this sector. The most beautiful parts of the world have always been attraction for tourists, travelers, adventurers and lovers of nature. But there are places which the man himself has developed as best tourists place despite the fact that there is no natural beauty as compared to former. The tourism in totality has been revolutionized with innovative concepts that have not only increased the tourists flow but have made tourism as best trade, Traditionally Kashmir has been an attraction for tourists from all over world but gradually it has lost the charm and attraction because of lack of innovative and modern concept and services. It is quite but natural that a tourist will not repeatedly enjoy to visit Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Kokernag. He will definitely find something better and innovative than his earlier visit. For example Gondola at Gulmarg has definitely increased the interest of youngsters. However this too will not attract tourists for longer duration unless something new is added. The whole concept of modern tourism has undergone many changes which in one way or the other have stabilized the inflow of guests. Take the example of off road tourism which is gaining a lot of popularity among youngsters. As the youngsters from urban areas are fed up with the fast life, they want to spend some days away from hustle and bustle and pressures of modern life. This off road tourism has become very popular and beneficial for several countries which are dealing with the tourist trade. This kind of tourism has been initiated by many states like Rajasthan, Uttrakhand, Gujrat, Madhya Pradesh etc. The youngsters come in groups, stay in clusters and spend some days in leisure. Similarly, the Safari a modern concept of tourism is gaining momentum where in group of people are taken to remotest areas using old means of travel like camels, elephants, horses and buggies. If such things are introduced in Kashmir which is almost peaceful now, tourism industry will definitely get a boost. Besides this, basic infrastructure for high profile tourists from Europe in urban areas have to be augmented and made at par with world standards.
Daily
Zabarwan Times
Srinagar, Thursday 25 June 2014
Rani-ki-Vav
Queen of Step Wells joins UNESCO World Heritage List
O
n a recent work visit to Gujarat, I had a spare day in hand at Ahmedabad and wanted to make the best use of it. When my colleague Jagdishbhai suggested that Rani-kiVav at Patan and the Sun Temple at Modhera could be covered as a day trip, there were no two arguments. I had read about the splendour of Gujarat’s famed step-wells and seen a short episode of Rani-ki-Vav on NDTV’s 7 Wonders of India series. A quick Google search revealed that the Indian Government had submitted Rani-ki-Vav for inclusion in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Monuments. Rani-ki-Vav was also quite well promoted on television by Amitabh Bachchan in the Gujarat Tourism’s ‘Khushboo Gujarat ki’ campaign. After a two hour drive through a well paved road, going past Kalol, Unjha and Mehsana, we arrived in the bustling little town of Patan, once the capital of Gujarat. Even as the sun played hide and seek, we reached a large ground with a vague board of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) that announced the step well. But we could see nothing, except vast stretches of well mowed lawn, with shady trees in between. That was because the master-piece lay underneath. This subterranean splendour, better known as Rani-ki-Vav is about 64 metres long, 20 metres wide and 27 metres deep. It was originally constructed of seven stories of which five are now preserved. As we kept going down the steps, we found ourselves in a different world. The next one hour was pure bliss. Rani-ki-Vav is a highly decorated monument with ornamented pan-
els of sculptures and reliefs representing the height of Maru-Gurjara style of architecture. Most of the sculptures are in devotion of Vishnu, in the forms of Dashavatar, with eye-catching images of Varaha, Narasimha, Rama and Kalki. There is a particularly beautiful statue of Mahishasur-Mardini -the Mother Goddess slaying demon Mahishasur. Apsaras – the celestial beauties showcasing 16 different styles of makeup (Solah Singar) is another highlight. Near the water level, you come to a carving of Sheshashayi Vishnu, in which the lord reclines on the thousand-hooded serpent Shesha. Till 2001, the visitors could go right up to the end of step-well where the water is. But during the Bhuj earthquake, the structure became somewhat weak and the ASI has now prohibited entry beyond a point. But this decision, in no way hinders you from viewing the delicate works that depict rhythm, beauty and various moods, all in stone. The intricacy of this monument at once reminds us of the sanctity our ancestors attached to water. The Vavs of Gujarat are not merely sites for collecting water and socialising, but also hold great spiritual significance. They were originally constructed quite simply as kunds, but became more intricate over the years, perhaps to make explicit this ancient concept of the sanctity of water. Befitting its name, Rani-kiVav is considered to be the queen among stepwells in India. While we have innumerable monuments built by Kings in memory of their queens, Rani-ki-Vav is different. It is believed to have been built by Rani Udayamati, in memory of
her husband Bhimdev I, the founder of the Solanki dynasty of Patan. The construction began in 1063 AD and continued for several years. A reference to Udayamati building the monument for Bhimdev I is in the ‘Prabandha Chintamani’, composed by Merung Suri in 1304 A.D. The Vav was later flooded by the Saraswati River and silted over until 1960s, when it was excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India. It is estimated that Vav had nearly 800 sculptures of which approximately 500 are found in pristine condition. Rani-ki-Vav is a well preserved monument and ASI deserves to be complimented for the good work. Besides continuing the conservation efforts, ASI has also got the monument digitally mapped with the Scottish help. The detailed 3D digital survey prepared by the Scottish Ten Initiative will help better understanding of the heritage monument and aid its preservation. Rani-ki-Vav has always been a pride of Gujarat. It was in 2012 that an ASI team led by former Superintendent Archaeologist of Vadodara Circle, K C Nauriyal, had prepared a dossier for the step-well for UNESCO’s approval. UNESCO’s WHC advisory team, led by Professor Zhang Jie of Tsinghua University, China, visited Patan and conducted detailed study of the monument. It even talked to locals on how they perceived the step-well and what it meant to them. Finally, on June 22, 2014, UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee at its 38th session in Doha inscribed ‘Rani-ki-Vav’ as a World Heritage Monument. UNESCO observed “stepwells are a distinctive form of
subterranean water resource and storage systems on the Indian subcontinent, and have been constructed since the 3rd millennium BC. They evolved over time from what was basically a pit in sandy soil towards elaborate multi-storey works of art and architecture. Rani-ki-Vav was built at the height of craftsmen’s ability in stepwell construction reflecting mastery of this complex technique and great beauty of detail and proportions.” Within minutes of Rani-ki-Vav being added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted “It is a matter of great pride for us. Next time you visit Gujarat, you must visit Rani-ki-Vav, an excellent symbol of our great art and culture.” Surely, when you emerge out of Rani-ki-Vav, you return with a whole new understanding about wells. That wells are not always dark, deep and mysterious; in Gujarat they are also exquisite monuments. And in case of Rani-ki-Vav, it is a living testimony to the artistry of 11th century Solanki artisans.
Visiting Patan:
Patan is approximately 125 kms. from Ahmedabad via Mehsana. Inter-city buses take about 3.5 hours, while a private taxi takes you there in less than 2.5 hours. Shared jeeps are also available, but they are less comfortable. Nearest railhead is Mehsana, from where you will have to travel by road. It is best to visit Patan as a day trip from Ahmedabad, combining the famous Modhera Sun Temple, also built during the 11th century.
Healthy Food Habits: Ways and means of limiting the Trans Fat intake
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resently, India is facing the dual burden of disease – while large majority of the people are suffering from chronic energy deficiency (due to poor quantity and quality of food intake); a sizeable population on the other hand is also suffering from the diet-related chronic degenerative/lifestyle related diseases. The risk factors associated with these diseases include unhealthy dietary practices, physical inactivity, overweight/obesity, smoking/drinking, drug abuse and psychological stress. Among the diet related factors, apart from the total energy intake, quantity and quality of the dietary fat play an important role. The dietary fats may contain saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Further, the unsaturated fatty acids can exist either in the cis or the trans configuration depending on position of the hydrogen atoms at the double bonds. In the case of cis configuration, both the hydrogen atoms are on same side of the carbon chain, resulting in a kinked geometry which imparts greater fluidity to the oils. However, in trans configuration, the hydrogen atoms are on the opposite side, as a result the chain gets straighter with greater rigidity (Figure 1). Conversion of cis isomers to the corresponding trans isomers result in an increase in the melting point. From the health view point, lower the melting point, better is the oil or the fat. H H H CH3-(CH2)7- C=C-(CH2)7-COOH CH3-(CH2)7- C=C-(CH2)7-COOH H Oleic acid (9 cis C18:1) Elaidic acid (9 trans C18:1) Figure 1: Structural differences in the cis and trans isomers of fatty acids Elaidic acid (9 trans C18:1) is the geometric isomer of oleic acid (9 cis C18:1). While, oleic acid has a melting point of 16.3ºC, the melting point of elaidic acid (9 trans C18:1) is 43.7ºC and that of vaccenic acid (11 trans C18:1) 44ºC. The trans fats are even more harmful than their saturated counterparts. Trans fats or Trans fatty acids (TFAs) are the most harmful type of fats which can pose many adverse effects on our body. Major TFAs include elaidic acid (9 trans C18:1) primarily found in partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, and vaccenic acid (11 trans C18:1), found in meat/ dairy products. TFAs are also present as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA, C18:2). However, in case of polyunsaturated fatty acids (containing >2 double bonds), either one or more of the double bonds can be in trans configuration. Thus, it is possible that in the polyunsaturated fatty acids, there is coexistence of the cis and the trans double bonds. The commonly consumed vegetable oils like soybean, sunflower, safflower, mustard, olive, rice bran, sesame are the sources of cis mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids and their saturated fatty acid content is also low. However, to obtain textural similarity to pure ghee and to improve their oxidative stability, these vegetable oils are subjected to hydrogenation. Since, complete hydrogenation would re-
sult in a waxy and excessively hard product; these oils are subjected to partial hydrogenation. Partially hydrogenated oils have a longer shelf life and are less liable to rancidity. However, this process converts some of the cis-isomers into their trans counterparts and thus leads to the production of trans fatty acid. Deodorization of fats/oils (usually carried out at high temperatures; 180ºC to 270ºC) also results in the formation of trans fatty acids. Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (PHVOs) have been a significant part of the human diet since ages. Many studies have reported the deleterious effects of trans fats derived from PHVO; and this hard fact has been of great relevance in formulating the health guidelines. Indian consumer today is incognizant of the amount of TFA present in the commercially prepared fried food items and lacks understanding regarding the actual amount of TFA they are consuming during the day through these fried foods. The population in general is ignorant of the adverse effects of TFAs on health. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (2010) has recommended that the TFA level in PHVOs should be below 10% which needs to be brought down to 5% in 3 years. Further, it has been proposed to mandate trans fat labelling so as to reduce its intake. Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils are the major source of trans fats in our diets. A small amount of TFA though present in dairy fat and meat products is not that harmful. Frying process is another which leads to the production of trans fatty acids; and their formation has been closely associated with the temperature of frying the food, duration of frying, number of times the fats/oils are heated/reheated. In 2003, World Health Organization had recommended the trans-fat intake (from industrially produced hydrogenated oils and fats) should be less than 1% of the total energy. However, the Indian dietary guidelines propose that the trans fat intake should be less than 2% of the total energy. Suitable strategies to limit the Trans Fat intake include: Ø Avoid using “Vanaspati/ Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils” or margarine in your kitchen. Most of our people consider vanaspati to be an economical substitute for pure ghee. Ø Avoid consuming food items prepared in “Vanaspati/PHVOs” or margarine; ensure to check the food labels. Ø Limit the intake of fried/baked foods, particularly the marketed fried foods. Ø Even while frying Poori/ bhatura etc. occasionally, use oils (and not the hydrogenated fat) and do not heat the oil for very long time. Ø Do not repeatedly heat the oil or re-use the same oil for frying. Generally, masses are not aware of the adverse health effects of TFA and that reheating of fats/ oils results in the formation of TFA. Further, after the frying process, cool the left-over fats/ oils, strain out the suspended food particles and store the fat/oil in refrigerator/cool place and use it in the preparation of dry vegetables/curries and pulav etc. Ø Avoid using ready to use/instant mixes for preparing foods as they have a greater chance of containing
the Trans fats. Ø Check the Nutrition Facts label on packaged food items for their TFA content, if indicated. Ø Always check the ingredient list on packaged foods for the words like “shortening”, “partially hydrogenated vegetable oil” or “hydrogenated vegetable oil”, since, these contain trans fats. Ø Avoid processed foods like cookies, chips, cakes and patties. Also, avoid consuming commercial fried foods and mithais esp if prepared in Vanaspati/ PHVOs; and limit their quantity as well as frequency of intake. Ø While eating out/ ordering food from outside, try to find out the oil being used in food preparation. If possible, request for reducing the amount of oil in the food preparation. A better option is to skip the deep-fried foods while eating out. Ø For bakery items like biscuits and cake, red palm oil having a semi-solid texture can be blended with other edible oils, in 1:1/ 1:2 blends and used. It will also enhance the Beta-carotene/vitamin A content of the food item. Due to the semi-solid texture, RPO will help in bringing about the shortening effect in baked items without adding to their TFA content. Implications for policy, practice and education: The authorities need to check the use of vanaspati and margarine as well as control an excessive use of the reheated fats/ oils. The halwais should be advised not to use oils over and over again for frying but to consume the used oils in the preparation of vegetables, curries, dough making, pulav etc. Nutrition education needs to be imparted to the halwais regarding TFA and their adverse health effects as well as they should be trained on correct frying practices. The government should consider specifying achievable lower limits for TFA and SFA content of vegetable oils and the processed/fried foods. Nutrition labels on processed foods should indicate the TFA and SFA contents separately along with the optimal recommended ranges. The restaurants should avoid the use of ‘partially hydrogenated oils’ and if otherwise, its use should be disclosed. Further, the consumers should be made aware of the health hazards associated with TFA intake. In oil processing, the food industry should implement newer technologies so as to produce zero trans fat containing products with desired functional properties. A multi-sectoral and proactive approach is required to successfully remove/reduce industrially produced TFAs from the food supply chain. Targeted message campaigns discouraging the intake of trans-fats containing foods can be of great help.While some developing countries have laid down norms for TFA content of food, India needs strict regulations regarding the TFA content of fats/ oils as well as that of the commercially prepared food items. Therefore, at present the responsibility lies with the consumers to safeguard their interest. Therefore, steps need to be taken for curbing the trans fat intake through foods prepared both at industrial as well as household level.“Beware of the trans fats in your diet, their high intake increases the risk of degenerative/lifestyle diseases. Say no to the hydrogenated fats/oils and the products prepared in hydrogenated fats/oils. Further, reduce the intake/frequency of fried foods, particularly the commercially prepared ones”.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer