Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 26 January

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SUNDAY

26 January | 2014 | 24 Rabi-Al-Awwal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

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President urges citizens to cast votes for stable government New Delhi Jan 25: President Pranab Mukherjee has urged the citizens to cast their votes in the forthcoming general elections with responsibility to form a stable government saying fractured government leads to an unhappy eventuality. Addressing the nation on the eve of 65th Republic day, Mukherjee said every citizen has a responsibility in this regard and the country should not be let down. He said, whosoever wins elections must have an undiluted commitment to stability, honesty and development of India.

On rise of hypocrisy in public life, Mukherjee said it is dangerous and elections do not give any person the licence to flirt with illusions. Asserting that the government is not a charity shop and populist anarchy can not be a substitute for governance, the President

tioned that democratic nation is always involved in argument with itself but healthy difference of opinion must not lead to an unhealthy strife within the polity. Referring to rising passions over smaller states, he said a debate is legitimate but it should See Prez On Page 11..

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Omar greets people on Republic Day Lists five years achievements of his government Jammu, Jan 25: Extending heartiest greetings to people on the Republic Day, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah highlighted the significance of the month of January for his government for the coalition dispensation taking over the office in the State on January 5, 2009. He said his government has completed five years this year adding that remarkable progress has been achieved both on peace and development fronts during this period. “Though a lot has been done yet we have to do more towards achieving per-

manent peace and moving ahead on road to prosperity”, he said.

The Chief Minister in his message on Republic Day eve to be broadcast, telecast by Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan on 26th January, listed the path braking and historic decisions taken by the government during the last five years to empower common people, hold Panchayat elections and enact legislations aimed at curbing corruption, See Omar On Page 11..

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Congress want political gains from new adm units: Kamal

‘Congress intentions wrong; tantamount to hiding CSC report’

Srinagar, Jan 25: National Conference on Saturday termed its coalition partner Congress as a ‘selfish party’ that wants political gains out of creation of new administrative units in the state.

Talking to KNS, Dr Mustafa

Kamal, NC’s additional general secretary observed that the delay in preparing the report by the Congress led Cabinet Sub Committee (CSC) on creation of new administrative units is as good as hiding the report.

“Their (Congress) intentions seem wrong. This is a selfish party and sensing See Kamal On Page 11..

said those who seek trust of voters must promise only what is possible. He said those in politics should understand that every election comes with a warning message either to perform or perish.

The President said that democracy has the ability to self correct and 2014 must become a year of healing after the fractured and contentious politics of the last few years. He men-

Amid tight security vigil Govt set to celebrate R-Day functions

Srinagar, Jan 25: Amid tight security vigil, Indian Republic Day functions will be organized all across Jammu and Kashmir on January 26 on Sunday.

A police official told CNS that all arrangements have been complete to celebrate Republic Day function all across Kashmir and to conduct these functions smoothly and peacefully, police and security personnel have been put on high alert.

The two major functions will be held in twin capitals of the State, Srinagar and Jammu, where the contingents of police, paramilitary troopers, young cadets and school children will march past the Indian flag and stage performances to mark celebrations.

Sources told CNS that Finance Minister Abdul Rahim Rather will likely unfurl the Indian flag and take the salute in highly secured Bakhshi stadium in Srinagar, while as in Jammu, the winter capital, Governor N.N. Vohra will hoist the Indian tri-colour and take the salute of the march past in Maulana Azad stadium.

The security had been beefed up all See R-Day On Page 11..

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Srinagar, Sunday 26 January 2014

From the front page

Prez conform to democratic norms.On corruption, Mukherjee said, it is a cancer that erodes democracy and weakens the foundations of the country. He said if Indians are enraged, it is because they are witnessing corruption and waste of national resources and if governments do not remove these flaws, voter will remove them.

The President said communal forces and terrorists will still seek to destabilize the harmony of people and integrity of the country but they will never win. He said country's security and armed forces have proved that they can crush an enemy within with as much felicity as they guard nation's frontiers. Mavericks who question the integrity of armed services are irresponsible and should find no place in public life.

On economy, Mukherjee said the last decade witnessed the emergence of India as one of the fastest growing economies in the world. He said despite the slowdown of country's economy in the last two years green shoots of revival are already visible. The President said the agriculture growth in the first half of this year has touched 3.6 percent and rural economy is buoyant.

On education, Mukherjee said the country's huge infrastructure of higher education should now focus on quality education. He expressed hope that India can be world leader in education, if there is a will and leadership to take it to that pinnacle.

Omar bringing transparency, giving good-governance, making administration accountable from top to bottom and ensuring service delivery in important public service departments legally time bound.

The Chief Minister mentioned enactment of Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA), Re-constitution of Accountability Commission, constitution of Right to Information Commission, establishment of Vigilance Commission to give impetus to the transparency and bring government functioning under full public scan.

Omar Abdullah said that by giving the historic PSGA to the people his government has made some 80 important public services like issuance of Ration Cards, Driving Licenses, Water and Power connections, Revenue Papers, Schedule Caste, Schedule Tribe and Backward Certificates, Building Permissions, No Objection Certificates pertaining to Passports and other matters, FIR copy etc. under the ambit of PSGA to ensure time bound delivery.

Omar Abdullah also mentioned the reconstitution of Accountability Commission and bringing all public representatives under its ambit. He also mentioned the constitution of Vigilance Commission under which falls the entire bureaucracy and lower ranking officials. He said by implementing Right to Information Act and constituting State Right to Information Commission, his government has empowered a common man to question the performance and conduct of all government departments in the State.

Giving glimpses of the five years major achievements registered by his government in various fields particularly in the fields of rozgar, bijlee, pani, sadak, sehat aur taleem (employment generation, power, drinking water, road communication, health and education), the Chief Minister said that during the last five years about one lakh youth have been provided employment in government departments.

Omar Abdullah said that employment being a global phenomenon needs multi-faceted approach to address. He said and added that his focus on entrepreneurship development through the innovative scheme of SKEWPY is to enhance the orbit of livelihood generation for youth of the State. He said about 2400 income generating units have been established under SKEWPY in the State so far providing jobs to over 13000 youth. He said during the last five years about 40000 youth have been identified and are under the process of training to upgrade their skills and enhance their employability. He said 40 reputed companies have been linked with the UDAAN scheme while many more are connected with HIMAYAT programme under which 17000 youth have been trained and 12000 have been provided jobs in different companies.

Omar Abdullah said that under the prestigious scheme UMEED 9 lakh rural women are being organized in Self-Help Groups in the State during a period of five years to ensure their economic and social welfare. He said nine blocks have already been brought under the scheme this year. He also mentioned steps taken by his government for the inclusive development of weaker sections of the society including schedule caste, schedule tribe, pahari, other backward classes, gujjars and bakerwals. He also referred to the measures taken by his government for the holistic development of agriculturists, horticulturists, artisans, labours and other poorer sections of the society. He said 3.75 lakh Kissan Credit Cards have been provided to farmers and 40000 artisans cards to artisans to avail the easy loan facilities from the banks for strengthening their economic activities. He said agriculture has been kept out of the tax regime to encourage its growth.

The Chief Minister said that his government placed power development sector in the priority list and recognized it as the most important sector to ensure necessary turn around in the State’s economic condition. He said power is the sector which can strengthen the State’s economic health and lift it from the deficit level State to the economically self-reliant level. He said necessary edifice has been laid to generate 9000 MWs of hydro energy in the State in next eight years. He said during the last five years his government has launched new power projects of the capacity of 1500 MWs as against 750 MW capacity projects constructed in the State since independence.

The Chief Minister said that during the last five years his government completed some 500 road projects, 265 bridges and constructed 8500 kilometres of new roads besides blacktopping 15000 kilometres and concretizing 19000 kilometres of roads. He said two flyovers one each at Srinagar and Jammu cities have been launched besides completing many important bridges.

The Chief Minister said that water supply system in Jammu has been augmented with 30 lakh gallons of water per day and Srinagar system by one crore gallons per day. He said over 1050 water supply schemes, 10000 hand pumps and 200 treatment plants have been completed during the last five years while 5000 schools have been provided with protected drinking water. He said 43 water testing laboratories have also been completed.

The Chief Minister said that during the last five years two Central Universities, two New Campuses of Kashmir University, 23 new Degree Colleges, 8500 new Schools, 18 new Polytechnics have been opened and operationalized in the State.

The Chief Minister said that 26 health institutions, two maternity hospitals and one super speciality hospital have been completed during the last five years. He said some 10000 doctors of various categories and para-medics have been appointed besides completing 15 hospital projects. He said 48 primary health centres have been completed and 18 districts provided with mobile medical units.

Omar Abdullah said that the progress on development front has been possible by the peace and normality which showed gradual improvement during the last five years. He said restoration of peace has helped in roping in large number of tourists in the State during the last five years.

The Chief Minister said that peace is of paramount importance to carry forward development and resolve all issues in an atmosphere of amity. He said gun is no answer to any problem and wars have never solved any issue but created many. He referred to his repeated efforts during the last five years to facilitate internal and external dialogue on political issues confronting Jammu and Kashmir and reiterated the need of restoring the process of dialogue between India and Pakistan and the particular political groups in State and the Centre so that issues are addressed in a peaceful and political manner.

The Chief Minister referred to the return of Kashmiri Pandits and said that they have been away from their native land for over 25 years. He said his government has taken initiatives to create conducive and secure atmosphere for their return. He said economic packages like employment to the youth of Kashmiri Pandits are also under implementation. He said 1500 boys and girls of KPs have been given jobs in the Valley and his government has submitted a special economic scheme for the rehabilitation of KPs to the Central Government.

The Chief Minister also mentioned the Rehabilitation Policy and said that 380 youth have returned under this policy. He said his

Zabarwan Times

government would continue to help rehabilitation and return of youth from POK who have not indulged in any violence and intend to live peaceful and normal life in the society.

The Chief Minister said that 2014 is significant for the State as both Parliamentary and Assembly Elections are being held in this year. He appealed the people to exercise their right to vote in large numbers adding that boycotts in the past have done no good to the people and these will also do no good in future.

The Chief Minister prayed for peace, prosperity and progress of the State and the Country and well-being of the people. He concluded his speech with this couplet –Bus Tum Meri Awaz Sey Awaz Mila. (KNS)

Kamal that it will get routed in Jammu and Kashmir like other parts of the country, it wants political benefits out of the new administrative units. We want this exercise should benefit people in general,” Kamal opined.

Allaying apprehensions expressed by certain Congress leaders that creation of new administrative units will put an additional burden on the already deficit state exchequer, Kamal said that state is already managing its affairs with the funds received from the government of India and the proposed expenditure on new administrative units will also be managed from those funds.

“Our income at present is RS 7000 Crores and the rest we get from the Government of India. Anyway, the expenditure will come on second stage. Congress is worried about colour of chickens before they are being hatched. Does it mean that the two reports prepared by the two committees including Mushtaq Ganaie and S S Beloria were an exercise in futility?” he questioned.

The NC additional general secretary remarked that the National Conference want to remove anomalies created by the PDP-Congress coalition government since 2002 to 2008 by creating new administrative units in areas which were left out by the then government.

“Why they (Congress) are delaying this report is just because they would get exposed as many areas which genuinely deserved new administrative units were ignored by the then coalition government. That is why we want to create these units judiciously and in a transparent manner,” Kamal told KNS. Asked about Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s assertion that he will resign if the CSC fails to submit its report before the state cabinet within the deadline fixed by Omar, the NC additional general secretary said: “Yes. Omar means it. He is particular about it because he want to help people by providing them governance at their doorsteps.”

Kamal said that Congress is delaying the formation of CSC report because it wants the whole exercise to be carried out on its own terms which the NC will never allow to happen. “Congress wants to benefit the areas which it has already taken care of during its previous stint of governance in the state. We want the people to get benefited out of this exercise.”

He said that the whole exercise is yet to undergo public scrutiny as the CSC report after being submitted to the cabinet will be put in the public domain to elicit public opinion. (KNS)

R-Day across State days before the celebrations to keep militants at bay from disrupting the official functions. Highly trained commandoes have been deployed in and around Bakshi Stadium to keep a strict vigil there. Various residential houses located around Bakshi Stadium have been occupied by security personnel while various security personnel were seen patrolling on the roof tops of these houses.

Police and paramilitary troopers have been deployed on the roads across the State, especially in full strength and bullet proof bunkers were also parked in the middle of the roads outside venues of official functions to sabotage any attack.

Highly placed sources told CNS that the mobile telephone services across the region will be jammed Sunday as a security measure to prevent militants from using mobile phones to trigger explosive devices or pass on information.

The connectivity according to sources will be restored late afternoon after the culmination of the official functions.

On Saturday police and security personnel conducted surprise checking in different parts of Kashmir Valley. Bikers and pedestrians were frisked while at number of places in Srinagar city the identity cards of suspected persons were thoroughly checked.

Police cordoned off the area around Clock Tower in Lal Chowk Srinagar and checked the identity cards of pedestrians and also frisked their pockets and belongings thoroughly. (CNS)

Soz advises Govt to go in appeal against army court decision on24-25, Pathribal Srinagar, Jan 25 (KNS): 2000 in which five inPradesh Congress Committee president and Member Parliament Prof Saif-u-Din Soz on Saturday advised the state government to go for appeal against the army court’s decision to close the Pathribal fake encounter case.

“The state government would be well advised to go in appeal to the Supreme Court against the army court’s decision to close the Pathribal fake encounter case and bring the wrong doers to justice,” Soz told KNS on phone from Delhi.

The Jammu and Kashmir PCC president observed it is clear that the army court ‘has gone wrong’ in its decision regarding Pathribal Fake Encounter Case of March 2000. “It was India’s premier investigating agency—the CBI that had charge sheeted the army for enacting the fake encounter at Pathribal way back on March

nocent person Jumma Khan and others were killed in cold blood as militants responsible for the unfortunate incident of Chatisinghpora massacre that had taken place earlier.”

Soz said that the CBI had marshaled credible evidence before the Supreme Court that five officers of 7 RR had maneuvered a fake encounter in which five innocent persons were killed. “The Supreme Court had accepted the evidence of CBI and had decided on May 1, 2012 that the army should court martial five officers or set up a criminal trial against the accused army officers.”The PCC chief opined that in public eye it is totally unwarranted that the army court has closed the case. “I feel that the J&K government should go in appeal before the Supreme Court immediately,” he added. (KNS)

Sikh community neglected

by Govt: Raina Srinagar, Jan 25 (KNS): Expressing disappointment over the neglect of Sikh community by the state government, All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) today said the government is not in constant touch with members of other communities so that a joint strategy is evolved to fight for their rights.

According to a statement issued to KNS, while addressing a gathering as part of his ‘Mass Contact Programme’ in Jammu, APSCC Chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina said the entire community in the state will be brought under a single umbrella so that the demands are put forth in a forceful and strong manner. Raina said that he along with members of community will visit different areas in order to bring awareness among the Sikh voters as both

the parliament and assembly elections are round the corner.

“I am in touch with leaders of other minorities including Christians and Buddhists to decide upon a joint strategy in the forthcoming elections. The all important issue of granting minority status to Sikhs and others can be put in more effectively if a joint voice is raised in this regard. After the Delhi assembly elections it has been proved that true power lies with the common man and the vote he casts in the polls,” said Raina.

Raina said the present dispensation of state consisting of Congress and National Conference should learn a lesson from the results of recent Delhi elections, where the common man rooted and voted out the Congress after its failure to govern the people.

‘Now check Blood Glucose sugar level without prick’

First medical invention from Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar, Jan 25, CNS: Jammu Kashmir Innovators Forum (JKIF) is making a device that would measure glucose from the skin without taking any blood sample.

Jammu & Kashmir Innovators Forum, sole Forum from the state, which works for inventions, researches and innovationsSaturday announced that it is testing a prototype of a device that would help the people with diabetes to manage this disease.

Chief Executive Officer, JKIF Engineer M.M.Idrees-ul- Haq Beigh told CNS that the device which is in the phase of design-

ing would measure glucose level in the body through the process of reverse iontophoresis and this device would be less invasive method of measuring glucose levels than finger pricking.

“This device would work on the process of Reverse-Iontophoresis ,when positive ion flows into the skin. Ions must flow out to maintain electro neutrality. This reverse iontophoresis is the basis of our device. As skin carries a net negative electrical charge, positive ions can migrate more freely and carry most of the iontophoretic current. Migrating positive ions create an electro-osmotic fluid flow through the skin that carries neutral molecules such as glucose out of the body .The amount of glucose collected by reverse iontophoresis correlates well with blood glucose. Care will be taken to use a safer ion which does not interfere with the neuropathic complications of the diabetic

(hyperesthesia, neuropathic pain) or to be used in such a way that even mild neuropathic issues remain unaltered,” Haq said adding that the glucose will be collected at the iontophoretic negative electrode due to the passing of iontophoric current and measurement cycle will be performed.

The three measurements would be averaged and the result would provide glucose level.

The innovator from Kashmir said that this device will help those who are among the world's 382 million diabetics need insulin to keep a close watch on their blood sugar and adjust their dose.

JKIF have urged the state government and pharmaceutical companies to help them in this project as the lab facilities are not available here to make this device.

Besides Haq other team members who working on this innovative project includes Dr Dawood Banday, Sheikh Rayees and Shah faisal. (CNS)

Creation of Administrative Units: Omar Abdullah felt cheated by Congress

‘Congress not trustworthy’: Akbar Lone Srinagar, Jan 25, CNS: Casti-

gating its coalition partner, National Conference Saturday said that Congress party is not trustworthy and it had and has been ditching NC from time to time. National Conference senior leader and Minister for Higher Education Muhammad Akbar Lone told CNS that Congress party cheated Chief Minister Omar Abdullah by not submitting its report on the creation of new administrative units even after the expiry of deadline.

“Omar Abdullah was not angry but he surely felt that Congress party cheated him by not submitting report on the creation new administrative units. There was

redness on his face and he categorically conveyed to all Cabinet Ministers that he will put all the Cabinet Meetings on hold till Cabinet Sub Committee does not submit its report,” Lone said.

Lone told CNS that Chief Minister set up Cabinet Sub Committee after Congress party requested him that Mushtaq Ganaie Committee has ignored some of the areas of the State. “Congress members like Tara Chand, Ghulam Ahmed Mir and Nawang Rigzin Jora are part of CSC. CSC failed to submit its report on due date and instead Congress members requested me to arrange a meeting with Chief Minister so that they request him to extend the date for the submission of the report. These Congress members sought two days time but Omar Abdullah was so magnanimous that he gave them 10 days on a condition that they will submit the report anyhow on due date,” Lone said

adding that surprisingly the Congress party played spoilsport and did not submit its report on January 24.

Higher Education Minister said that Congress party does not want Omar Abdullah should get credit for creating new administrative units. “Congress party is not sincere and it has ditched National Conference from time to time. There were reports that Omar Abdullah was angry when CSC did not submit its report. He was not angry but felt he was cheated by Congress party. Omar Abdullah told Congress members that there should be no difference between Congress and NC on the issue. Omar even told them that it is not the issue relating to AFSPA or the execution of Afzal Guroo where parties may differ,” Lone said adding that Omar Abdullah will defer all the Cabinet Meetings till report is not submitted by CSC headed by Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand. (CNS)

DG Prisons awards medals

Srinagar, Jan 25 (KNS): The Director General of Prisons, J&K K. Rajendra Kumar, IPS awarded the Director General’s Prison Medal to 10 Officers/Officials of the J&K Prisons Department on the eve of Republic Day 2014 in recognition of their Meritorious and Exemplary Services.The Director General’s Prison Medal has been awarded this year for the first time to the Prison personnel in the history of the J&K Prisons Department. The Award was instituted by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir in order to establish an in-built system of recognising outstanding service rendered by the Prison personnel and to boost the morale of the Prison personnel who are discharging highly onerous duty.

Ten Commendation Medals would be awarded every year on the eve of Republic Day to the Prison personnel.

The awardees include three Prison Officers- Saroop Chand, Dy. Superintendent, Abdul Razzak Malla, Asst. Superintendent and Abdul Samad Bhat, Assistant Superintendent; three Head Warders- Mohammad Afzal Khan, Naresh Kumar Sharma, Kuldeep Kumar besides Charanjeet Singh, SG Warder, Mohammad Khan, Warder, Shaheena Akhtar, Warder and Sanjay Kumar, follower.

Sarpanch abducts shopkeeper ‘Police should investigate the matter’: Lone

Sumbal, Jan 25:: A resident of Ganderbla who runs a shop near New Bridge Sumbal area of Bandipora DistrictSaturday alleged that he was kidnapped by a Sarpanch and his associates who after beating him mercilessly recorded his video in which he was forced to claim that he on the behest of a local PDP leader is planning to attack Higher Education Minister with a grenade.

Sources told CNS that, Shaheen Ahmed Wani son of Late Ghulam Muhammad Wani resident of Sehpora Ganderbal was allegedly kidnapped by Sarpanch Ajas Bandipora Wasim Ahmed and his associates on Friday.

Shaheen Wani according to report approached Court where he recorded his statement before First class Judicial Mag-

istrate who accordingly directed police to thoroughly investigate the matter.

The relative of Shaheen told CNS that Shaheen was abducted by Sarpanch and his associates. “He was beaten ruthlessly and the abductors forced him to claim that Peoples Democratic Party leader Yasir Reshi and his associate Siraj-uDin Reshi provided him cash to attack National Conference leader and MLA Sonawari Muhammad Akbar Lone with a grenade. In order to save himself from the cruel abductors, Shaheen did what he was directed to do. Court has taken the cognizance of the case and police has started inquiry into the matter,” he said.

A police official on condition of anonymity told CNS that police is investigating the matter and hopefully Sar-

ANC expresses concern over Gole Pully power crisis Jammu, Jan 25 (KNS): A meeting of the office bearers and mem-

bers of Awami National Conference district Jammu was held here today under the chairmanship of Vijay Magotra district president of the party. A grave concern has been expressed by the participants over failure of power development authorities in responding to the power supplies in Gole Pully Talab Taillo area and its adjoining areas for the past more than four days.

It has been said that the transformer installed near agriculture office Talab Tillo has been damaged due to an electrical short circuit and for post four days the locals of this locality are living in dark.

It has been said that despite repeated requests to the concerned authorities for restoring power supplies by replacing the damaged transformer nothing has been done when Republic Day is ahead to be celebrated on 26th January 2014.

An appeal has been made to the Govt for immediate restoration of power supplies and replacing the damaged transform ensuring smooth Republic Day celebrations on 26th of January 2014.

Failing which the locals of the area will come on roads for agitation against the Govt and the department concerned. Prominent among other who were present in the meeting include Bharat Bushan,Subash Chander,Som Nath,Madan Lal,Subash Gupta,Vicky, Raj Sharma youth president and others. (KNS)

panch and other accused will be arrested soon. He further said that Shaheen has recorded his statement in police station and investigation has been taken up as per the directions from Court.

Meanwhile, PDP District president for Bandipora, Yasir Reshi told CNS that it was an attempt to defame him among people. Reshi said that he is hopeful that police will thoroughly investigate the matter and expose these elements before public.

When contacted Higher Education Minister Muhammad Akbar Lone said that police has informed me about the development. “I have told police to investigate the matter but I am shocked that local PDP leader is trying to subdue me by using money and power,” he said. (CNS)

Unending power crisis a result of insensitive administration: CPI (M) Kulgam, Jan 25 (KNS): District Secretary CPI (M) Kulgam Abdul

Hamid Wani has expressed deep concern over the dismal power scenario in Kulgam district. He said that the unending power crisis in the entire Valley and particularly in Kugam district is a direct result of incompetence and insensitivity of the administration.

In a statement issued to KNS, Wani said that around 40 transformers of different areas of the district are pending repair in electric division Kulgam since more than a month forcing people to come on roads. The irony is that despite authorization given by the Hon’ble MLA Kulgam to the district administration for release of funds from his constituency development fund for repairing of the damaged and installation of new transformers nothing concrete has been done sofar.

The CPI (M) leader said that people particularly students and business community are facing huge problems in absence of electricity adding that the situation is so grim that those supposed to act swiftly seem to be in deep slumber.

The CPI (M) staged several protests on this grave issue and submitted memorandums to the district administration at many a times but to no avail.

Legal Aid Clinic--‘Justice 6 injured in road mishaps at Door Step’ inaugurated Srinagar, Jan 25: In connection with the process of delivering at Door step Justice. Pr. District & Sessions Judge, Srinagar Mohammad Shafi Khan inaugurated Legal Aid Clinic at DC office Srinagar in presence of Farooq Ahmad Shah DC Srinagar.

According to a statement issued to KNS, among other judicial officers Skinder Azam District Judge TADA-POTA and Subash Chander Ist Addl. District Judge Srinagar were also president.

Besides heads of other department large number of

people were present. Pr. District Judge Srinagar who inaugurated the Clinic appealed to people to avail benefits of the free legal Aid Services system, those who cannot afford resources for legal respite would be provided free Legal assistance.

Farooq Ahmad Shah said the opening of the clinic in the premises of DC office Srinagar is a historic development and aimed at public good and will go a long way in solving problems at Grass root level. (KNS)

Srinagar, Jan 25 (KNS): Six persons were injured in two separate road accidents across the valley. A tata sumo bearing registration number JK010/9903 driven by Mohammad Amin Sheikh son of Ai Mohammad resident of Madeena Chowk Gowkadal rammed into an electric pole at Frestbal near EDI Pampore, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Pampore resulting in injuries to 05 passengers boarded in the said vehicle. The injured were shifted to hospital for treatment.

Meanwhile an auto load carrier bearing registration number JK04B/1474 hit and injured a pedestrian Abdul Rashid Bhat son of Ghulam Rasool resident of Gund-Maqsood, Chadoora. The injured was shifted to Bone and Joints hospital Srinagar for treatment. (KNS)

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Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

Srinagar | Sunday

Effective establishment of rural and urban self-governing bodies would be a milestone in the governance of J&K: Guv JAMMU, JANUARY 25: Mr. N. N. tently stressed that the empowercoming polls shall see the maximum Vohra, Governor Jammu and Kashment of the people at the grass root number of voters exercising their mir, today said that the establishlevel and enabling Panchayats to effranchise.The Governor said that on ment of Panchayati Raj and the corfectively participate in the planning the joyous occasion of our Republic responding devolutions in the arena and implementation of developDay we must pay tribute to our great of municipal administration would ment programmes would result in national leaders who made enormous lead to the establishment of a decenpromoting the welfare of the entire sacrifices to carry out a prolonged tralized democratic framework at the rural population. I have been stressstruggle for liberating our country grass root level in the entire State. He ing that the conduct of elections to from the colonial yoke. He said that observed that this shall provide an the Urban Local Bodies, which had many of these wise and visionary exciting opportunity for all our peobeen planned to be done a considerleaders also served as members of ple living in the villages and towns able time ago, and implementation the Constituent Assembly and made to become closely and productively of various pending institutional and invaluable contribution to the draftinvolved in planning and implementtaxation reforms, would result in ining of the Constitution of India which ing various developmental schemes vigorating the entire municipal adwas adopted on this day in 1950. and programmes which promote ministrative framework and go a long The Governor paid tribute to their interests. way in establishing a democratic self- the State and the Central Police ForcGreeting the people on the governing framework in all the towns es and the Army for their unflinching 65th Republic Day, in a message, the and cities”. He hoped that these very devotion to duty and paid homage to Governor observed that effective es- long awaited elections and other in- the brave officers and men who laid tablishment of rural and urban selfstitutional reforms shall be carried down their lives to protect and pregoverning bodies in each of the three out in the coming months”. serve the country’s territorial integregions of the State would be a mileObserving that the elections rity.The Governor said “our country stone in the governance of J&K. to the Parliament and the Jammu and has travelled a fairly long distance The Governor observed Kashmir Legislative Assembly are since Independence and the jourthat the momentous elections to scheduled to be held in the coming ney, on many occasions, has been Panchayats, held after a gap of nearmonths, the Governor said that the quite difficult. Thanks to the devoted ly three decades, had witnessed a electoral contests held in 2008 and endeavours of our enlightened leadturnout of 80% to elect about 33000 2009 and the Panchayat polls in 2011 ers in the initial years, significant Lone Kangan a very high turnoutKhan News Agency Ganderbal Panches and Sarpenches.

He News said “IAgency had witnessed of strides were taken towards building News Agency Soura Zahidthe Book Depot Chadoora have strongly believedGulzar and consisthe voters and hoped that the forthunity and integrity of the nation

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and imbuing our polity with strong secular foundations. Today, among the comity of nations, India is known and respected for being the largest representative parliamentary democracy which protects the freedom and dignity of every member of our heterogeneous societies”.

The Governor observed that 65 years ago we had set out to build a nation which would secure social, economic and political JUSTICE to all its citizens and eradicate illiteracy, poverty and backwardness from our Motherland. While considerable progress has been achieved on varied fronts it is a matter for serious concern that, over the past years, divisive forces and fissiparous tendencies have started raising their heads in various parts of the country. He added that our societies are showing increasing intolerance and getting divided on the basis of religion and narrow linguistic, caste and other loyalties.

As a consequence, we are witnessing religious and caste tensions and communal violence, which are generating an environment of turbulence. Side by side, there has been a progressive decline in our ethical codes and val-

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 JAMMU, JANUARY 25-Minthe minister asked the officers number of measures have been Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora ister for Housing, Horticulture of R&B and JMC to resolve the taken by the government to News AgencyofMagam Zargar News Agency and Culture, Mr. RamanBhat Bhalla problems the people of Akali develop new tourism spots be-Kunzar JAMMU, JANUARY 25:- To on Saturday kick startedDar develSinghBeerwah Nagar with regard to sides conservation centuriesSumbal NewsKour Agency Bashir NewsofAgency commemorate the foundaopment works at Akali KourNews chocking of nallah.

He directed old monuments of the region. Pattan tion day of the Election ComReshi Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Singh Nagar at Digiana to be them to start work on cleaning He said special attention is also mission of India and to enBasharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore completed at an estimated cost the nallah immediately to ease being paid on conservation and hance the participation of the Altaf News Javaid Agency of Rs. 8.50 lakh. theAgency problemsPulwama of the people. restoration of News pristine glory ofQazigund voters, especially the youth, The Minister asked Jeelani the of- NewsBhalla saidBaramulla that efforts are Mubarak BahuAgency G.MMandi NewsPalace, Agency Sopore in the democratic ficers of R&B depart- Shah News Agency Kupwara Fort and otherAgency heritageHandwara electoral process, the Sultan News ment to complete the places, besides up-gra- ‘4rth National Voters’ Younis News Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad works within stipudation of tourism relat- Day’ (NVD) was celThree Way Newsaimed Agencyebrated Tral at a function lated time frame. He Reshi News Agency Islamabad ed infrastructure directed them to per- Turray News Agency Tral to attract domestic organized by Chief Badru News AgencyasBijbehara sonally monitor the Rahi News Agency Kulgam well as foreign touristsArwani Electoral Office J&K Malik News Agency quality of works and to the State and the City at Police auditorium Rah News Agency Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil sought the cooperaof Temples. here today.

Ensure all facilities to people: Bhalla to officers

tion of the people in taking forward the development projects in the area.

Minister, while interacting with locals of the area, said that the Government is committed to provide better civic facilities to the people of the State adding that every nook and corner of the State is being connected with the nearest urban centre through road network.Responding to the demand of locals of Digiana,

afoot to divert tourists of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji to other pilgrim places and adventure spots of the region, adding that government has upgraded tourist infrastructure and recreational facilities at tourist spots across the region including at Bagh-eBahu for the purpose.

The minister said that a

Raman Bhalla appealed people not to dump debris in the lanes and open spaces adding that such practices not only cause inconvenience to the people but also pollute the environment around the area. He asked the concerned executing agency to prepare estimates for modernization of left out lanes and drains in the area and submit the same for funding to ensure early start of work.

3.5 lakh new voters enrolled in J&K

Vote, best way to choose; change Govt, EPIC-a proud possession to have: CS

Chief Secretary, Mr Mohammad Iqbal Khandey who lit the ceremonial Lamp to commemorate the National Voters’ Day was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

Chief Electoral Officer J&K Mr Umang Narula, Deputy Commissioner Jammu Mr Ajit Kumar Sahu and officers from state administration and state election department besides various political party representatives, senior citizens

govt. to issue identity cards to blood donors for priority treatment in hospitals: Shabir JAMMU, JANUARY 25: The Minister of State for Health, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Khan today inaugurated the Voluntary Blood Donation Camp on the eve of Republic day at the Gandhi Nagar Hospital today.

The blood donation camp was organized by Hindu Shiv Sena (HSS), Jammu in collaboration with Government Hospital Gandhi Nagar.

As many as 34 volunteers of HSS donated the blood during the camp, which worked under the supervision of Superintendent Government Hospital Gandhi Nagar.

Speaking on the occasion, the Health Minister emphasized the value of voluntary blood donation. He said Jammu and Kashmir is a multi-religious and multi ethnic State and blood is the one of the most significant unifying factors that keeps our State united.

The Health Minister urged and appealed to all to come forward and voluntarily donate blood. He urged the youth to take a pledge that they will voluntarily

donate blood regularly. He stated that it was a myth that blood donation results in

weakness.

Highlighting the increasing demand for blood, Shabir said that blood donors would be issued identity cards from the Health Department for providing treatment facilities on priority in hospitals. He said in this regard the nec-

essary directions have already been given to both the Directors of Health Services Kashmir and Jammu.

Enumerating some of the major reforms taken by the government for providing quality healthcare facilities to the people of the State, the Health Minister said that due to the concerted efforts of the government, the Centre has doubled the NRHM budget to Rs 436 crore to the State this fiscal. He said purchasing of 200 new ambulances is in final stage. He said to fill up the vacant posts of doctors in the hospitals selection process of over 700 doctors through PSC is at final stage. He said government very soon is going to launch new scheme ‘RBSK’ in the State for free treatment to the children of all the Districts. He further said that 676 sub-health centers would be also soon established in the State, for the purpose, the Centre has already given its nod to the State government, he added.

Sadhotra visits gole gujral, takes stock of public problems JAMMU JANUARY 25: Minister for Planning, Labour and Employment, Ajay Sadhotra has instructed the authorities of Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA) to take necessary measures and address the sewerage problem of the people of Gole Gujral area in a time bound manner.

The Minister, along with senior officers of ERA, R&B and Irrigation departments, today, visited Gole Gujral and took stock of the problems of the people, especially those living in Mohalla Singh Sabha.

The Minister went round the interior lanes of the affected area and discussed the issue in detail with the officers to find out a permanent solution of this problem.

The Minister was told that water blocking in the drains is directly entering into bases and lawns of the residential houses caused severe damage to public property. He was told that the lanes are submerging whenever it rains causing inconvenience to the common people particularly old aged persons and children.

Ajay Sadhotra directed authorities concerned to start work immediately and ensure that the problem of the people is resolved before water is released in the irrigation canal flowing from the area. He called upon the officers to sit together and formulate a comprehensive project so that this issue is addressed once for all.

Speaker felicitates people on republic day JAMMU, JANUARY 25: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mubarak Gulhas felicitated the people of the State on the Republic Day-2014.

Mr Gul said that our great leaders and freedom fighters have offered supreme sacrifice to make the country free from the clutches of foreign rulers and it was on this day of 1950 when our constitution came into existence.

“Let us pledge to join our hands for development of the State and strengthen the democratic institutions of the State” he added.

On this occasion, he made a fervent appeal to the people of the State to come forward and take part in the development process started across the State, adding that peace is imperative for prosperity and development of the State.

ues in virtually every sphere and this has led to governance being marred by growing complaints of corruption, he said.

The Governor said “notwithstanding the alarming bells from varied quarters it is our great good fortune that the democratic system is now deeply rooted and firmly established all across the country. Thanks to the revolution in information technology, our billion and a quarter people are politically conscious and aware of their democratic rights. This awakening has led to our citizens rightly demanding, more and more aggressively, the satisfaction of their various needs ― shelter, food, water, electricity, roads, schools, hospitals and employment”.

The Governor observed that it is not unlikely that the winds of change blowing across the country would also influence the affairs of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and we may have to face varied challenges.

Terrorism and militancy, which commenced in 1990, have resulted in large human and economic losses and caused prolonged miseries for the common man.

and large number of young boys and girls participated in the event.

While extending his good wishes to the people of the state and Chief Elec-

tion Officer J&K and entire election department team, Chief Secretary noted that the celebrations have contributed immensely to the creation of awareness about the responsibilities cast on all stakeholders for effective and meaningful participation in the electoral process.

“Setting up of the Election Commission of India on 25th January 1950 was indeed a landmark chapter in the history of free India, a step which facilitated peaceful, orderly and democratic transfer of power through delivery of free, fair and credible elections to the people”, Chief Secretary said.

“The addition of over 3.5 lakh new voters who turned 18 during last year, to the list of registered voters reflects the success of ‘Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation’ SVEEP campaign” he said adding that Jammu and Kashmir today has over 69 lakh total registered voters, who will be exercising their franchise, their right to vote in the upcoming elections to choose a government.

Wani distributes MES certificates

Highlights significance of vocational training

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 25: Minister for Roads & Building and Mechanical Engineering, Mr. Abdul Majid Wani today distributed certificates among successful candidates under National Certificate in Modular Employable Skills (MES).As many as 27 candidates from Doda District, who received the certificates, appeared for examination in Plumber trade under National Council for Vocational Training, Union Ministry of Labour and Employment.The Minister highlighted the importance of vocational training for enhancing the skill development among youth. He said these trainings programmes provide access to employment and generate income resources of the youth to earn their livelihood.Mr. Wani said that the government has taken various initiatives to takeover unemployment problem and help youth to earn their livelihood. He said opening of new Industrial Training Institutes and Polytechnics Colleges in the State to provide training to youth in different modern skills is an effective step towards skill development mission.

He said that skill development as per local area and local market is being imparted to meet the needs of local labour market, saying that it also contributes in the local economic development.

Besides, imparting vocational training to youth as per local market demand, the efforts are also afoot for upgradation of skills and enhancement of employability to get absorbed trained youth in open market, Mr. Wani maintained.

Earlier, various deputations from Jammu, Samba, Wachi area of Shopian and Bhalessa of Doda districts called on the Minister and projected developmental needs of their respective areas.Interacting with the deputationists, the Minister said to bring rural areas at par with their counterparts on development front is the focussed attention of the Government, adding that various initiatives have been taken in this regards.

For outstanding performance, dC Leh presented with ECis award for ‘Best Electoral Practices’ by President of india NEW DELHI, JAN 25: Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Simrandeep Singh was today presented with Election Commission of India award for ‘Best Electoral Practices’ on the eve of National Voters’ Day2014.

The Award was presented to Simrandeep for his outstanding performance in Election Management while carrying out implementation of Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation Plan (SVEEP) in Leh District during the ongoing Summary Revision of Electoral Rolls.

The Award was given to him at Vigyan Bha-

wan, New Delhi today by the President of India.

The Award carried a Citation and a cash component of Rs 50,000.

Simrandeep actively carried out the SVEEP campaign in Leh, in convergence with Nehru Yuva Kendra Sanghathan, Rural Development Department, Higher Education Department, Doordarshan, Leh and NHPC. In a series of exceptional innovative activities, started during October last year, special Gram Sabhas were held in the entire district in which village wise voter lists were read out and relevant corrections were made on spot. Further special

camps were held in all 9 blocks of the district for voter education. Street plays were held in different Polling stations and all attempts were made to reach out to probable Ladakhi voters residing outside Leh. As a result, Leh District was able to achieve 100 percent Photo Electoral Coverage, besides meeting complete targets of EP and Gender ratios.

Deputy Commissioner Leh figures among the three best performing, District Election Officers in the country, to receive the award this year, the two others being Deputy Commissioner Chamrajnagar from Karnataka and Deputy Commissioner.

26. 01 .2014

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19

Don’t let another person’s small, thoughtless comment ruin your entire day, Aries. People may be a bit stingy with everything from money to emotions to time spent with loved ones. The more you tell someone else that they’re wrong, the more that person is going to reject your advice. In general, this is a good time to simply stay out of other people’s way.

Taurus April 20-May 20

You may be feeling a bit tired and worn out lately, Taurus.

Don’t push yourself to do things when you know that your body needs rest. It could be extremely tempting to roll with the crowd and participate in all the fun. You don’t want to miss out on a single thing going on around you. Resist the temptation to disregard the important messages that are coming from your body. Slow down.

Gemini May 21-June 21

Don’t fritter away your time with a person who isn’t going to change his or her mind about something, Gemini. This is one of those days in which you may end up wasting your time and everyone else’s by continuing to insist that things be done a certain way. If you want to do something your way, then do it. If someone else wants to do something his or her way, then let that person do it.

Cancer June 22-July 22

More than likely there is a person in your world who desperately wants to get closer to you, Cancer. Conflict is apt to arise tonight if you don’t open up and let this person in a bit closer. It could be that you’re quick to snap back with a forceful opinion, but be careful that you don’t scare them away entirely. This person wants to share more of an intimate space with you, but perhaps they just don’t know how.

Leo

July 23-August 22 It may be easy for you to show up at a party or answer the phone when you know that it’s your best friend calling with good news, but where are you when the going gets rough, Leo? Make sure you show your support to people in all situations. Don’t be just a fair-weather friend. Your loyalty to others may be tested today when conflict arises and tempers get high.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Realize that your inner state of mind is quite apparent to people just by the look on your face, Virgo. Don’t think you can hide things from others, especially today. You’re better off just saying how you feel even if you think someone may be put off by it. Your emotional state should be strong, so use this to your advantage

Libra

September 23-October 23 Your opinions are apt to be strong today and you may feel on top of the world, Libra. Remember, however, that there are other people who share the world with you, so don’t disregard them as you plow though the day. Expressing your thoughts should be no problem, but expressing your emotions could be a whole different matter. Don’t push it if it doesn’t feel right to share them with others at this time.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 Realize that you may be controlling other people’s actions without even consciously knowing it, Scorpio. This is one of those days in which emotional outbursts could explode in your face as a result of other people’s reactions to your pressure. Don’t feel like you need to take on the responsibility of everyone else’s actions. You may be having a hard enough time dealing with your own personal issues.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Beware of unexpected circumstances today, Sagittarius.

The good news is that your flexible attitude is perfectly suited to deal with the twists and turns that this day is likely to offer. While other people may get upset when their plans go awry, you’ll find that you can surf the waves easily and turn any situation into a positive one, regardless of the way in which you planned things to work out originally.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Come out of your shell today and try not to be so aloof, Capricorn. You will never find the exact path you want to be on until you explore the different options. The good news is that you should be feeling quite strong emotionally, giving you the confidence to approach people with authority, thereby earning their respect and faith in whatever project you’re involved with now.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

You may be wondering why everyone is getting so touchy when you see this as being just a normal day, Aquarius. Cut other people some slack when you think they aren’t wearing as big a smile as you are. If you want people to trust you, you need to prove that you can bring yourself to the same level that they’re on. Show a greater understanding of other people’s needs.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 It could be that you don’t feel as if you can begin your day until you’ve made it clear to someone that you have an issue that needs to be dealt with, Pisces. You have a greater amount of emotional strength than usual, and you’ll find that it’s important that you hold on to this feeling against all odds. Other people may try to strike you down with their words, but pay attention to what they’re saying.

EDITORIAL/ OPINION Unemployment Result of rampant nepotism, corruption and militancy

T

he unemployment problem, no doubt, has thrown a big challenge for the whole world community. Every country is struggling hard to overcome this gigantic issue. It has eschewed most of the natural resources of the developing countries but the solution to the problem remains a distant dream. For states like J&K, the responsibility of providing employment lies on the shoulders of the government. The militancy in the state for the last 21 years, has hampered the speed of the progress in all spheres of life, be it industrial growth, tourism, handicrafts or other sectors. The protracted instability has resulted into weak, tenuous economy and it’s fluctuations have left it’s citizens with no option for economic engagement.

The outcome of this uncertainty has rendered at least six lacs educted youths as unemployed currently and this situation is bound to aggravate in the coming years with the increasing number of pass out youths every year. The unemployment is also amongst the illiterate class .Half of the population of the valley still lives below the poverty line as the resources of income are vey meager for them to tap. Consequently, there is influx of rural population in the small towns or cities in search of jobs. This has added to the woes of the city developers. Moreover, the crime- rate in the cities and towns is swinging upwards causing law and order problems besides social evils. The youths have stared indulging themselves in crimes, like robberies, addiction to drugs, murders which were unheard of at least in the valley. The frustration amongst the youths is growing up and as a result some of the youths tend to commit suicides, though an un-islamic act. The diseases like cancer, cardiac arrest, diabetes etc. are on rise. But one is forced to think over the basic causes behind these glaring issues which are taking our society into a dark ravine. The visionless planning of the policy-makers, and those at the helm of affairs, instead of making fruitful efforts to over-come these problems, are adding salt to the injuries.

They are more interested in accumulating wealth than in improving the present condition of the society which is result of their ill-conceived policies. One agrees that the government jobs are limited. But what so ever is available, is being filled through nepotism, brazen political intervention, and elite connections or by exchange of money power. There is one such glaring example of such mal–practices. The posts of Accounts Assistants were advertised

by State Selection Recruitment Board announcing the requisite technical qualification as B.Com or M.Com. Surprisingly, the interview- letters were posted to all those candidates having the B.Ed degree which has nothing to do with accounts apparently. The deserving candidates were left out and the favored one’s were asked to fill up B.Ed or M.Ed qualifications in the technical qualification column. No wonder, some of the unfavored candidates too had B.Ed or M.Ed qualifications ,but they did not mention it in their application forms thinking it as irrelevant to the required post as it was not the requisite qualification as per the advertisement and will not carry any weight age for interview. Astonishingly, when the facts surfaced before the public, it was found that it was done at the behest of a Cabinet Minister of National Conference who wanted to oblige his favored one’s for the best bargain known to him. How can anyone expect justice from any public and statutory bodies when they are subservient of the political leaders?

The widespread corruption has not only vitiated the atmosphere of public institutions but has also hampered the growth of private sector which could have accommodated a large chunk of unemployed youths. What will be the future of this state? Perhaps God knows better!

Daily

Zabarwan Times

Srinagar, Sunday 26 January 2014

IWMP - Harnessing, Conserving and Developing Degraded Natural Resources

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he country is facing serious challenge because of extensive land degradation and water stress. Though the estimates may vary, it can be safely stated that nearly half of the country’s area is suffering from excessive runoff resulting in soil erosion and loss of precious water resources. The problem is more severe in rainfed areas of the country.

As the agriculture productivity has stabilised in assured irrigated areas, the rainfed areas of the country assume more significance because of its potential for enhancement in productivity by successful implementation of watershed development programme.

The Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) one of the Flagship programme of Ministry of Rural Development is under implementation by the Department of Land Resources since 2009-10 after integrating three area development programmes namely Desert Development Programme (DDP), Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP) and Integrated Wastelands Development Programme (IWDP), for development of rainfed/ degraded land in the country.

The main aims of IWMP are harnessing, conserving and developing degraded natural resources such

living in the project areas. Some of the successful interventions under IWMP which have impacted the livelihoods of rural poor and contributed in enhancing their incomes are: Picture1Integrated Watershed Management Programme-IWMP-I was sanctioned in Datia Tehsil, Datia District of Madhya Pradesh in 200910 covering an area of 5,527 hectares.

It is being implemented by Rajiv Gandhi Mission for Watershed Management through Development Alternatives as Project Implementing Agency (PIA). One of the villages namely Salayapamar in the project consists of 1515 ha of geographical area with 86% of farm land and a total population of 1500. The average land holding is 2.5 ha per farmer with average livestock of 1.2 per farmer. In the year 2012 through Watershed Committee in Salayapamar stop dam was constructed with a total cost of Rs. 2.22 lakh with a storage capacity of 350 m3. As a result, 70 acres of land is being irrigated and productivity of the farmland has been increased up to 30%. Rice crop is now being cultivated in the lower side of stop dam for the first time.

The impact is also visible in 27 wells in the area, as the water level has increased by 7-8 feet. The stop dam created in the village has impacted

as soil, vegetative cover and water; prevention of soil run-off; rain water harvesting and recharging of the ground water table; increasing the productivity of crops; introduction of multi-cropping and diverse agrobased activities; promoting sustainable livelihoods and increasing the household incomes. The major activities taken up under IWMP inter-alia include ridge area treatment, drainage line treatment, soil and moisture conservation, rain water harvesting, nursery raising, afforestation, horticulture, pasture development, livelihoods for asset less persons. The Department of Land Resources has sanctioned 6622 projects covering an area of 31.29 million hectare and has released the central assistance of Rs.8240.61 crore to the States under IWMP since its inception in 2009-10 to 2013-14 (till November 2013).

The project duration of IWMP project varies from 4-7 years.Though the IWMP projects are yet to be completed, the impacts are now visible in many parts of the country. The construction of water harvesting structures under IWMP has helped in improving the water availability and additional income to the farmers

the livelihoods of 17 farmers in terms of economic empowerment and productivity improvement, which was not seen before the intervention.

In Dondi-Lohara block of Balod district in Chhattisgarh DSCN0140 IWMP-I project was taken up in 2009-10 with total project area of 5261 ha and treatable area of 5000 ha. Under the project, a Check Dam was constructed with a total cost of 2.92 lakhs in 2012-13 in Kasahi village. Earlier this area was drought prone and highly prone to heavy soil erosion during rainy season. But as a result of construction of Check Dam not only the soil erosion has reduced but also about 25 ha of dry land have been converted into irrigated land. Due to assured irrigation the productivity of Paddy has increased to 17q/acre from 12q/acre earlier.

In Komna block of Nuapada district in Odisha an IWMP-II project was sanctioned in 2009-10. Nuapada, in the western of part of Odisha, has problems of typical rainfed and remote regions such as environmental degradation, low agricultural productivity, large-scale migration, high indebtedness, absence of a savings base, and poor access to in-

stitutional agricultural credit and marketing and extension services.

High rainfall with low vegetative cover has led to high soil erosion and consequent low agricultural productivity. Most farmers survive on the produce derived from the single monsoon crop. The case study of growing onion highlights the consolidated efforts made by the IWMP projects to ensure profitability of the agriculture sector through grower’s cooperatives on a sustainable basis.

Commercialization of Onion cultivation with all end to end services like value addition, storage and marketing through community based institutions proved to be a replicable livelihood promotion model.

Onion promotion odisha-3Onion was grown by few farmers in the area on a small scale. The productivity was average but the climatic and other factors were favorable to the crop. However, the farmers used to sell their onion crop soon after harvest when prices were the lowest. On the other hand, traders in Raipur, Chattisgarh were making most of the money by storing onion in big storage houses and selling them in the month of August when the rates are higher. Apart from that, the local variety & N -53 variety grown by the farmers had a very poor keeping quality and could not be stored beyond two months. Secondly, the farmers didn’t have proper storage facilities to store it even for this short

farmers were taken to Nasik for exposure trips where they saw similar institutions and their benefits. The farmers from Komna were greatly encouraged by the organization and modus operandi of the farmers in Nasik. The Nuapada farmers learnt better cultivation practices, storage, and marketing from the farmers in Nasik. Most importantly, these visits helped in establishing a link with Nasik farmers for supply of onion seeds.

Onion promotion(odisha)The entire cluster promotion initiative helped to upscale the area under onion from 92 acres in 2009 to 298 acres in 2012.

The practices learnt from Nasik, better quality seeds and the trainings helped the farmers to increase the yield from 50 quintals per acre to around 70 quintals per acre. The key objective of cluster development was achieved when the co-operative of onion growers was registered with 272 members. The project started in IWMP-II/2009-10 Komna block has now spread to Nuapada and Khariar blocks. The availability of low cost storage structures has helped them in getting more value from the crop.

Farmers were provided with onion storage structures of size 10 ft. x10 ft. x13 ft., which have a three racking system of storage at a cost of Rs 16000.00 per structure. Beneficiaries were linked with the Horticulture department for technical guidance and advice. Onion storage structures

period. Thirdly, farmers needed immediate cash and didn’t have the capacity to wait long. It was found that the slightly pinkish Agri Found Light Red (AFLR) variety could be stored up to six months without much damage. This discovery set off the journey to help farmers get better value from this crop.

Onion promotion Odisha-2The livelihood promotion approaches through grower’s cooperatives under the Integrated Watershed Management Programme has contributed to increase in profits, by helping farmers increase the productivity and helping to store the onions longer so that they would get higher rates later in the year. The latter was achieved by the widespread promotion of low cost storage structures and by the use of better seeds and improved cultivation practices.

In the first phase, the Project Supported 70 farmers to grow AFLR variety of onion in around 50 acres of land in IWMP-II, Komna block, Nuapada. Informal leaders were identified in each cluster and groups of

were made of Bamboo and thatched shed with flooring, and have a storage capacity of upto 20 qtl of onion.

Earlier, a farmer would sell 20 quintals of Onion @ Rs 4.00/kg earning about Rs 8000.00, but by storing the onions for 4 months he was able to fetch a price of Rs 12.00/kg with an earning of Rs 19200.00 per acre (with 20% evaporation & sorting grading loss).The cost benefit ratio of each onion structure is 1: 2.4 with a life span of eight years.

The intervention helped the farmers in increasing their profitability manifold. The increased profitability led to more than three times increase in area under cultivation. The share of income from onion for many farmers has increased to about half of the total household income. The successful farmers have inspired others in their village to take up cultivation of AFLR variety on larger scale and use storage structures to keep their produce for deferred sale. The cooperative has increased the confidence of the individual farmer who has now become more aware of his stronger position in the market.

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