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26 March | 2014 | 24 Jamadi-Ul-Awal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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Srinagar, March 25: Police on Tuesday recovered three bodies at separate places from Kupwara and Ganderbal districts in Kashmir Valley, an official said. “Almas Bhat, 28, son of Ghulam Hassan Bhat, resident of Bumhama was found unconscious inside an Alto Car bearing registration number JK01A 1139 at Wayen area in Kupwara,” the official told GNS, adding Almas was immediately shifted to district hospital Kupwara where doctors declared him brought dead. He said the initial investigations revealed that Almas died due to intake of drugs. Similarly, police recovered body of Muhammad Iqbal Mir, son of Abdul Jabbar Mir resident of Tikker from Juktiyal forests in Kupwara. In another incident, police recovered a body near Power canal Kawcharawan late Monday See Valley On Page 11..
Army, police launch searches in Tral Srinagar, March 25: (GNS) Army and Special Operation Group (SOG) of police continued its search operations on second consecutive day Tuesday to nab the militants who on Monday evening gave slip to the joint team of forces in Tral village of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district. Reports reaching GNS said the troops of 42, 3 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and SOG carried out daylong searches in Mir Mohalla and Beiggund Mohalla of Dadsar village in Tral.A police official while confirming the See Army On Page 11..
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Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
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Azad will win with record votes: Omar
Handwara, March 25, CNS: Timber smugglers Tuesday attacked a Forest Protection Team in North Kashmir’s Handwara region after they raided a part of forest to recover the illegal timber from the smugglers. However, locals alleged that forest officials and timber smugglers are hand in glove and the attack was a ‘drama’. According to CNS, after receiving
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On Edit Page Unemployment problem - a challenge for any government The state of Jammu & Kashmir called paradise on earth has excelled in many fields for dubious reasons other than the positive ones which could have taken this state forward rapidly on the path of peace, progress and prosperity. Declared as one of the most corrupt states of the county, now it has achieved one more dubious distinction of being one of the leading states in the field of unemployment. The state has according to estimates over 8 lakh educated
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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS: Light Rain/Snow would occur at a few places over the state.
FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:
Partly cloudy sky. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 14°C & 04°C respectively.
12.50C 5.7 0C 06:45PM 06:31 AM
Khan unrelenting on poll boycott call against Shariq ‘Congress because of me in Gurez, I am not because of Congress’
BJP seems ‘one man’ show; Cong will come back to power: Azad
Azad, Malik file nominations
No Modi wave; just a media hype: Azad Srinagar, Mar 25: Senior Congress leader and Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on Tuesday filed his nomination papers for the Udhampur parliamentary seat. This is Azad’s maiden attempt in his political career to contest Lok Sabah elections from Jammu and Kashmir. Reports reaching KNS said Azad arrived at election office in Kathua in a procession. He was accompanied by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Pradesh Congress See Azad On Page 11.. Jammu, March 25: Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad on Monday attacked Bharatiya Janta Party’s Prime Ministerial Candidate Narendra Modi under a veil, saying the party will lose the fray despite initiating election campaign six months back. The Congress stalwart while addressing the mammoth gathering here in Kathua pointed out at BJP for a single leadership, he said, “For the last six months from every corner only one name is being heard and no other name, which reveals the party belongs to a person only. It seems that there is no other leader in BJP, who has capacity to lead the people from the front and depending upon
a just single person to woo the voters”. “Now the election dates have been announced, almost all the parties be it national or region, are in fray at a larger extent. All of them are going amidst the general public are highlighting the issues. It is now slowly and steadily getting visible that the people (BJP leadership) who created the wave will get nothing out of it,” added Mr Azad and further quoted an Urdu couplet, “Ab Hawain Hi Karengi Faislaa Roshni Ka, Jis Diye Mein Jaan Hogi, Who Diya Reh Jayega”. On witnessing the mammoth gathering, which was in thousands, Mr Azad said that “likewise Congress and its allies are getting similar response through
Reserves the right to arrest him
Srinagar March 25: Enforcement Directorate has attached the assets of tainted BOPEE former Director Mushtaq Peer worth Rs 60 lakhs while the Directorate has said that it reserves the right to arrest Mushtaq Peer once he gets released from the Central Jail. ED officials told CNS that the Joint Director ED was investigating a case number ECIR/01/ SRZO/2013 against former Director of Board of Professional Entrance Examination (BOPEE) Mushtaq Ahmed Peer and others. In this case ED has attached assets of Mushtaq Peer worth Rs 60 lakhs.
out the nation as Congress has served the people with commitment and dedication. We have never ever made mere announcements like BJP”. “The spell bound development related activities throughout the country are the pointer to the fact, that Congress is the only party that has served the nation and brought new era of development in almost all the spheres,” added Mr Azad. “Congress for the last 129 years is serving the nation. It was Congress that forced the Britishers, which were ruling the world, to leave India. And one can imagine Congress’ commitment for the people of the country. It is the Congress party that has made See Omar On Page 11..
The property that has been attached by the ED includes a plot of five marlas with shed at lane number 11 at Sidra Jammu, flat number 4, upper ground floor building number 125 block A at Freedom Fighter Enclave, Neb Sarai near gate number 2 at New Delhi and flat number 2/2A at Custodian General flat situated at Wazarat Road Jammu. “The value of this attached property as per ED officials is estimated at Rs 50 lakh, however, sources said that the market value of the said property would be much higher than this. Besides, attaching immovable property of the tainted Mushtaq Peer, Enforcement Directorate has also seized his bank accounts and the cash up to the tune of Rs 10 lakhs lying with different banks have been See BOPEE On Page 11..
Respect J&K, its people; PDP MPs would tell the country: Baig
Ansari cautions against division in anti NC vote
Srinagar, March 25: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senior leader Muzaffar Hussain Baig has said the representatives who would be elected to Lok Sabha on PDP ticket would convey a clear message to the country that the people of Jammu & Kashmir would no longer take any injustice and denial of rights. According to a statement issued to KNS, while addressing a workers convention of Pattan Assembly segment of Baramulla Lok Sabha today, he said the PDP after changing the complexion of politics within the state would make a serious and sincere effort to set a new insti-
tutionalized and serious Kashmir policy at the national level. “We will tell the country that the people in J&K cannot be treated as cattle who could be denied their basic rights just because NC has failed to represent us effectively at the centre,” said Baig. Baig said NC MPs have never raised the issues facing the people of the state in the parliament. “It was left to some conscientious members from outside the state to raise issues concerning our pain and misery. But, the representatives from the state never opened their mouths in the parliament but raised their hands in support of the government whichever party was in power whether BJP or Congress”, Baig said and See Baig On Page 11..
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ED attaches property worth Rs 60 lakhs of tainted Peer
FPT attacked by smugglers ‘Attack was a drama’: locals
SUNSET ON(WEDNESDAY) SUNRISE ON (THURSDAY)
VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 84 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)
Srinagar, Mar 25 : The Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) counseling to its disgruntled leader and former MLA Faqir Mohammad Khan in Gurez seems not delivering on the ground. Khan is not only unrelenting on his poll boycott call against Shareef-u-Din Shariq, National Conference candidate from Baramulla Lok Sabah constituency but cautioned his party of dire consequences if it compels him to support the coalition candidate.
New Delhi, March 25: In a major breakthrough, chief of terror outfit Indian Mujahideen Tehseen Akhtar alias Monu, one of the most wanted militant blamed for a number of terror attacks, has been arrested by the Special Cell of Delhi Police. The arrest of Akhtar days after Delhi Police nabbed another top IM operative Zia Ur Rehman alias Waqas from Ajmer in Rajasthan along with three of his associates. Special Commissioner of the Special Cell S N Shrivastava confirmed his arrest but refused to divulge more details. Akhtar was heading the Indian Mujahideen after the arrest of Yasin Bhatkal, co-founder of the terror outfit. With the arrest of Tehseen, almost the entire top leadership of Indian Mujahideen has been nabbed by the police. Indian Mujahideen co-founder Ahmad Siddhibappa Zarar alias Yasin Bhatkal, See IM On Page 11..
Plays with the future of the students
Srinagar, Mar 25 : The board of School Education Kashmir has again given tough time to the students of 10+2 level-keeping results of 50 students in limbo. The reports received by KNS stated that the BOSE has deliberately playing with the careers of students by delaying their +2 regular results. They stated that in January 3rd week, the results of class 12th was declared by BOSE in valley but the
JKPA Condemns Malicious Campaign Srinagar: In an emergency meeting held today under the Chairmanship of its President, Ghulam Hassan Kaloo, the Executive Member of Jammu Kashmir Press Association deliberated upon the “Table News” published in English daily, “Hindu”, by its local Correspondent which is quite misleading, concocted and a figment of imagination. The said Correspondent has tried to mislead the Election Commission of India and the J&K State Officials by reporting that the J&K Information Department is releasing payments to the newspapers, both local and national dailies, on account of advertisement against the directions enunciated in the Model Code of Conduct laid down by the Election Commission of India. The fact of the matter being that such payments pertain to the advertisements of the last year which could not be cleared by the Information Department due to paucity of funds .Hence it is a committed expenditure and does not violate the said Code of Conduct as pointed out and published in the said newspaper. See JKPA On Page 11..
Talking to KNS, Khan also took a jibe at PCC vice president and MLC Ghulam Nabi Monga saying that the later should prove his political identity before trying to seek answers from Khan. “I am accountable to PCC president who can ask for an explanation from me not those who do not have any political basis,” Khan remarked, while referring to Monga’s remarks that Khan’s boycott call was wrong and a politically immature statement. The former MLA and Congress leader in Gurez told KNS that he will continue his protest See Khan On Page 11..
IM chief Tehseen Akhtar arrested
BOSE keeps students result in limbo
BOPEE paper leak and selling scam
Inside story
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Kejriwal accepts Varanasi challenge, says he will contest election against Modi
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same of 53 students was kept awaited. The reason given by the BOSE officials was that the practical sheets of the students have not been received. The students said that since two months, their results have not been declared due which their entry in colleges and other professional institutes is impossible. When KNS contacted secretary BOSE Renu Goswami over See BOSE On Page 11..
EC puts the rise in Gas prices on hold
New Delhi Mar 25: Election Commission has asked the Oil Ministry to defer notification of new gas price from first April. In a letter to Petroleum Secretary, the Commission said that the decision has been taken after taking into account all relevant facts, including the matter being sub-judice in the Supreme Court. Earlier, Aam Aadmi Party convener Arvind Kejriwal had approached the Commission to ask the government to stop the gas price hike. See EC On Page 11..
South Kashmir’s village reeling under darkness for last two months
Srinagar, Mar 25 : People of South Kashmir’s Frustbal Pampore have been reeling under darkness from the last two months with authorities maintaining reluctance in repairing their transformer. The details received by KNS, informed that the people of the area have been witnessing tough times during the harsh winters due to the damage caused to the transformer two months
earlier. The reports maintained further that people approached the Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) for the repair of their transformer. The locals alleged that the concerned AEE asked people to collect Rs seven lakh so that so that efforts for the rectification of their damaged transformer could be initiated. See South On Page 11..
IHM students protest against rustication of students, allege discrimination
Srinagar, March 25: The Kashmiri students of Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Rajbagh on Tuesday held strong protests against the Principal and management for rusticating a Kashmiri student alleging discrimination. The students also boycotted examinations and demanded transfer of its
principal. The Kashmiri students while talking to GNS said that on Monday, a scuffle broke out between some local and non-local students in which an indigenous student was thrashed by nearly a dozen non-locals. “He was beaten to pulp by about See IHM On Page 11..
Pathribal Fake Encounter Case:
People staged protest
Anantnag, March 25, CNS: On the 14th Anniversary of Pathribal fake encounter victims, people staged a protest in Brariaangan village of South Kashmir’s Anantnag town on Tuesday. People along with the family members of the victims gathered near the grave yard of See Pathribal On Page 11..
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Srinagar, Wednesday 26 March 2014
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Omar a history on executing developmental related activities throughout the country, connecting villages with township area further towns with cities, followed by cities with Metros. Besides, Congress party has ensured development in health, and rural sectors. See, the road connectivity, see the new infrastructure in Health sector around you. New Hospitals, New Medical Colleges, Super Specialty Hospitals are evident examples and achievements of UPA government in the last 10 years. Safety and security has been ensured for pregnant women and newly born babies through the scheme like AASHA is another example of Congress led UPA government really concerned for every Indian. And no such development has ever taken place ever before in the history of India, highlighted Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad. Appreciating the work done by NC-Congress coalition government here in Jammu and Kashmir headed by chief minister Mr Omar Abdullah, Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad stated that “In small two and half years’ tenure as chief minister, I created new districts and the work which was left, now has been completed by Omar led government by providing new administrative units including new Sub Divisions, Tehsils, Blocks and Niabats in the entire state”. He further said that, “be it Congress led UPA government at centre or NC-Congress coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir, we never discriminated with the people. We ensure equitable development. We never identified the areas that did not vote for us. Instead, we listened to every voice raised by any political party or an individual.” Chief Minister Mr Omar Abdullah, who accompanied Mr Azad while filing election nomination papers also addressed the gathering and made fervent appeal to both the workers of NC and Congress to go out in the field and highlight the work done by coalition government for the betterment of general public. He said, “go and work hard as it is not just Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad who is contesting elections but it’s me who is fighting elections. We will ensure a record win of Azad Sahib”. Thanking UPA chairperson, Sonia Gandhi and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi for sparing Mr Azad to contest election from Doda-Udhampur Parliament Constituency, Chief Minister Mr Omar Abdullah stated that “we waiting since the announcement of elections that when Mr Azad will come and contest polls. But now he is here and contesting election. We don’t want him to spare maximum time here as he has many more party responsibilities to campaign for other party candidates in rest of the country. But one thing, we will ensure Azad Sahib that from all the six Constituencies of state, Doda-Udhampur seat will be won by a record margin and will create a new history. I will campaign like it is not just you but me, who is in fray.” Hitting out at NDA, particularly the BJP, Mr Omar Abdullah said, “BJP has always tried to make cosmetic approach during election days. Earlier during the rule of NDA, Mr Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave a slogan of India shining. But the people of the country, who knew it that there was no shine anywhere, forced BJP to sit back for more than 10 years with a message, not to give hollow slogans and false promises”. Taking a dig at BJP leadership for showing disrespect to its party stalwarts like Jaswant Singh, L K Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi, chief minister Mr Omar Abdullah said, “those who do not respect their parents and other elderly persons in relations, how you can expect respect from such people or party. So, don’t come under influence and strengthen secular forces of the country.” Earlier, Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and PCC president Saifudin Soz were given rousing reception by Congress and NC workers all along Jammu-Kathua national highway. Party leaders and workers started the welcome from Samba town, followed by Jatwaal, Gaghwal, Chadwal, Hiranagar, Barnoti, Kothaa, Kalibari and Hatli Morh. From Hatli Morh, the youth supporters of Congress and NC who were hundreds in number escorted the cavalcade on two-wheelers amidst drumbeats and fiddling of flutes. People were seen attired in Gojri, Pahari and Dogra dressed who welcomed Mr Azad and other party leaders. Later, Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah PCC, president Saifuddin Soz boarded an open air vehicle and marched towards Returning Officer’s office to file the nomination papers. Thousands of party workers who were following Mr Azad raised slogans in favour of Congress and NC. Among others who escorted the party stalwart included deputy chief minister, Mr Tara Chand, Minister for PHE, Irrigation and FC, Mr Sham Lal Sharma, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Taj-Mohi-UdDin, Minister for Planning Ajay Sadhotra, Minister for R&B, Abdula Majid Wani, Minister for Revenue, Ejaz Khan, Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Rigjin Jora, Minister for State for PDD, Vikar Rasool, Minister of State Cooperative Societies and Fisheries, Dr Manohar Lal, MLA and ex-Minister, S S Slathia, NC provincial president, Devinder Singh Rana, NC MLAs, Ejaz Jaan and Thakur Rashpal Singh, Congress MLAs, Rani Baloria, Krishan Chand Bhagat and ex-Minister Babu Singh.
Azad chief Saif-ud-din Soz and other Congress and National Conference leaders when he filed the papers. Shouting slogans in his support, people were waving Congress party flags to greet Azad, who is currently a Rajya Sabha member, and the Union minister for health. However, KNS Kathua correspondent said that before Azad could file his nomination papers, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Arshad Malik filed his nomination before the Returning Officer and Azad had to wait for half an hour in a side room. Addressing his supporters, Azad has said that there is no Modi wave and the same is a creation of media hype. The union health minister has said that everything will come to its true colours only after the Congress will start its campaigning activities. He said that
Zabarwan Times people are politically mature and know the nefarious designs of the communal and divisive forces in the country. On this occasion, the chief minister Omar Abdullah also addressed the people saying that the party which does not know how to respect its old hands cannot rule the country. Referring to the BJP leader Jaswant Singh who was denied mandate for the upcoming parliamentary elections in Rajesthan, Omar said that BJP has given tears to its veterans and does not know how to respect its senior leadership. Omar asked that how can the party which gives tears to its senior leadership be expected to run this country of values smoothly. PDP candidate Arshad Malik, who also addressed his supporters on the occasion, said that his party is contesting Parliamentary elections with an aim to change destiny of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that PDP has carved out a path of development and peace in Jammu and Kashmir so it is need of hour to strengthen his party for establishing lasting peace and accelerating developmental activities in the State. Pertinently, the BJP candidate Dr Jitender Singh, Nation anal Panthers Party candidate Bhim Singh, Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Party candidate Anu Gupta have already filed their nomination papers for Udhampur Lok Sabha seat. Prem Nath as substitute candidate of BJP’s Jitender Singh, Shyam Lal (All J&K Kissan Mazdoor Party) and Ranjit Singh (Independent), Amrit Barsha of Samajwadi Party (SP), Dharma Paul Balgotra of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Madhu Bala Balgotra as Substitute Candidate of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) had also filed nominations. According to an election commission official, the scrutiny of nomination papers for Udhampur parliamentary seat will be held on March 27 while the date for withdrawal of nominations is March 29. (KNS)
Khan against the coalition candidate during the upcoming Lok Sabah elections. He also alleged that Congress party never bothered to reach out to its workers and other supporters who according to him were made political victims by the National Conference led coalition government during last over five years. “The (Congress) party did not bother to take cognizance of my feedback given from time to time about political victimization against my workers and party supporters in Gurez, how can the party (Congress) have a say in our decision of poll boycott now? Let me make it clear that I am not because of the Congress party here but the party is because of me in Gurez,” Khan claimed. He said that he can go to any extent if his party compels him to support the coalition candidate. “I can go to any extent even may think of leaving the party if they compel me to support the coalition candidate,” Khan said. Pertinently, the fissures in Congress developed by Khan’s rebellion in Gurez who on March 23, announced a complete boycott against Shareef-u-Din Shariq, the National Conference leader and the coalition candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabah polls in North Kashmir constituency. Reacting to Khan’s announcement, Ghulam Nabi Monga, vice president PCC had told KNS: “It is a totally wrong and immature statement from Faqir Khan. He is not authorized to make such statements. We (Congress) ensure that each and every vote of Congress is cast in favour of our coalition candidate (Sahreef-udin Shariq). We strongly rebut Khan’s announcement as it can be his personal opinion and not that of the party.” (KNS)
IM Tehseen Akhtar alias Monu, Asadullah Akhtar alias Haddi and Zia Ur Rehman alias Waqas were the brains behind almost every IM attack on Indian soil. Ahmad Siddhibappa Zarar alias Yasin Bhatkal and Asadullah Akhtar alias Haddi were arrested from Indo-Nepal border last year while Waqas and Monu were on the run. Waqas and the other three of the Rajasthan module had been working under the direction of Akhtar who had told them to be ready for strike but did not disclose the target, police said. In 2010, Waqas had reached Kathmandu from Pakistan along with Asadullah Akhtar alias Haddi (arrested with Yasin Bhatkal) in September 2010 and was received by Tehseen Akhtar. From Nepal, Waqas came to Darbhanga in Bihar where he met Yaseen Bhatkal and other members of the Bihar module of IM. This module then carried out the Jama Masjid attacks on 19th September 2010. After successfully executing the Jama Masjid terror strikes, Waqas returned to Bihar, police said. Tehseen Akhtar along with Yasin, Haddi and Waqas was also involved in the Mumbai serial blasts carried out at Opera House and Zaveri Bazar on 12th July 2011 when Yasin was the boss. After the Mumbai blasts, the next strike carried out by them was the Pune serial blasts of 1st August 2012. After this, Rehman and Haddi left for Mangalore and settled in a safehouse, investigators said. According to police, in Mangalore, Rehman received instructions from Riyaz Bhatkal to prepare for carrying out bomb blasts in Hyderabad. In early February, 2013, Rehman and Haddi shifted to Hyderabad where Tehseen also joined them. The Hyderabad serial blasts were executed by them on 21st February 2013. After carrying out the strike, Rehman returned to Mangalore and stayed there for some time. When the news broke of Yasin and Haddi's arrest by Indian security agencies, Riyaz directed Rehman and Tehseen to immediately leave the Mangalore hideout, police said. "Waqas moved to Munnar in Kerala and rented a house there where he lived alone. Here he even worked at a tea shop. Tehseen also visited him there for a short period. After staying in Munnar, Rehman kept travelling through Odisha, West Bengal and Maharashtra while staying in touch with Riyaz Bhatkal and Tehseen," the official said. Upon directions from Tehseen to come to Ajmer for an assignment, Rehman reached Ajmer from where he was arrested on Saturday morning.
BOPEE seized by the ED. ED officials told CNS that Peer had opened a bank account vide number 041510000002228 at HDFC Bank Residency Road Srinagar and all the cash lying in the bank was seized. Besides, one bank account vide number 04151530005241in the same bank belonged to his daughter Iqra Mushtaq has also been attached. ED official said that Peer had used the bank account of his daughter to transfer the money. ED officials further said that they had called the wife of the Peer for questioning but it was found that she owned a small property. “During investigation it was revealed that the broker Farooq Itoo had earned Rs 73 lakhs from the CET paper selling scam out of which he had paid Rs 60,000 to the Mushtaq Ahmed Peer. The officials told CNS that all the property was attached under section 5 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act while ED reserves the right to arrest the Mushtaq Peer under section 4 pf the PMLA for further questioning after he gets released from the Central Jail. (CNS)
BOSE the issue, she passed the buck to the examination centers stating that the respective centers have not provided the details of practical results to the board. She added that the BOSE is in no way responsible for the result delay and that within two days, the results of the students will be declared. Pertinently, various parents also expressed serious concerns over the functioning of the BOSE at present. Parents informed that in the recent past, BOSE declared some students repair in +2 exams and later when the students applied for the rechecking- some 54 students had distinction and 1st division. “If this is the condition of BOSE- may God save our kids from this office. The mismanagement has become order of the day in the state,” said one of the disgruntled parents. (KNS)
EC He alleged that the move is a violation of model code of conduct.
Baig added the only point of concern for the party was the employment of one member of the Abdullah family in Delhi and another in the state. Addressing the convention senior leader of party Moulvi Iftikhar Hussain Ansari said NC has time and again betrayed the trust and the confidence of the people and no wise person who is aware of the trickery of the ruling party would ever vote for it. He said the tricks of NC have now lost their effectiveness and people of the state want a change and a break from the past which can be delivered only by the PDP. Cautioning the people against the division of anti NC vote Moulvi said the people understand that it is a historical occasion for them to get rid of the NC misrule and emotional exploitation by its leaders. He said people realise that PDP is the only credible alternative which can replace NC and individuals claiming to represent people will only help the NC. In his address Muzaffar Hussain Baig said that NC has taken people of the state for granted and its leaders even abuse the people openly. Referring to the recent remarks of Dr Farooq Abdullah calling Kashmiri’s as ‘Maha Chors’, Beig said if a similar remark had been made by any other leader how so ever popular , about the people of any other state , he would not have been allowed entry to that area. “But the NC has the audacity to have fielded Dr Farooq Abdullah as a candidate in whose name they are now seeking votes. It is now for the people to give a befitting reply to the NC and ask its leadership whether they are not Kashmiris or do they fall in any other description”, Baig said. The former Deputy Chief Minister said NC has never believed in democracy and has always resorted to strong arm methods and malpractices to stay in power by hook or crook. He said the late Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah faced an election first time in his life only when NC was not in power in 1977. Earlier, he was installed in government as PM and CM in 1948 and 1975 without any kind of election. The 1951 elections to the state constituent assembly under Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s regime is a unique electoral exercise in which not a single vote was cast, said Baig. Baig said with defeat staring in the face of the NC in the coming elections it has again started resorting to misuse of power and official machinery. He said he has received reports from Kupwara that the ration depots in the district were closed today and the people who came to procure their rations were compelled to join a rally by a minister before they could receive their supplies. Similarly the rural development programmes like MGNREGA are being misused to purchase loyalties of workers but the NC must read the writing on the wall that its days in the state politics are over, Baig added. (KNS)
JKPA The Executive Members expressed satisfaction and hailed the efforts of the Principal Secretary to CM/ Commissioner Secretary Information Department, Mr. B.B. Vyas and Mr. Tasaduq Jeelani, Director Information Department for striving hard to arrange funds for the disbursement of liabilities among the Printers/ Publishers of newspapers under circulation in India in general and the State of J&K in particular.
South Expressing strong anger and resentment over the reply of AEE, the locals in large numbers took to main highway and started protesting against the government. The locals while raising slogans against the power department accused that the deliberate attempts are being made to inflict torture upon the people of the area. They stated further that the authorities have turned blind-eye towards their plight and that the repeated pleas to the authorities have yielded no results. The reports informed that the protesters blocked the
main Srinagar- Jammu highway at Pampore causing massive traffic halt for two hours. Protesters while talking to KNS accused that during the protests, Senior NC leader and a cabinet minister Ali Mohammad Sagar passed through the highway but he didn’t stop at the protest venue nor did he asked about the reason of the ongoing protests. Hours after no authorities approached people over the issue. Later local SHO pacified the protesters and urged them to end their sit-in. (KNS)
IHM dozens non-local colleagues after he refused to leave his seat,” they said, adding that after our intervention, a scuffle broke out between us. They alleged that the principal of the college, Nisheeth Srivastava after intervening blamed Kashmiri students for the incident without properly ascertaining the situation. The students accused principal and management of ‘harassing’ them. “He (principal) thrashed two Kashmiri students and is threatening us with police action,” a student wishing anonymity told GNS. The students accuse the management of adopting partial approach in dealing with the brawl aftermath situation. “The non-local students again thrashed two of our mates in presence of Principal and other staff members. Still, administration blames us for the mess and rusticated three of our students among which two were taken back after a stern warning,” another student alleged. The students however insisted that the name of the rusticated student should not be made public. The students continued to protest on Tuesday demanding transfer of its principal. However, the non-local students have appeared in exams. The IHM management however dismissed the allegations by saying they have not rusticated any student. “We have suspended seven students including four non-local students. We are investigating the matter and a stern action will be taken against the guilty,” an official, insisting not to be named told GNS. The official said: “We can’t rule out political involvement in the issue as many Kashmiri students were harassed and thrashed in outside varsities and institutes.” Despite repeated attempts, the principal of the Institute couldn’t be contacted. “He is in the meeting,” the official said. (GNS)
Pathribal pathribal and Bulbul Nowgam and remembered the departed souls and also observed a fateh khawani there. Reports said that people carrying banners and placards seeking severe punishment for killers of these innocent men took out a march. On this occasion, Rashid khan the son of one of the victims of Pathribal fake encounter told CNS that they will struggle till justice is not delivered to them. He said that the way Army has given clean chit to the killers indicates that there is military rule in Kashmir while the State government is helpless and powerless to book and punish the culprits who are all Indian army soldiers. He said that Chief Minister Omer Abdullah raised this issue in the Assembly to gain sympathy from the people. “Elections are coming and Omar Abdullah did lip service to gain some votes,” Khan said. Another protestor said that they will leave no stone unturned to get the killers punished. “We have not given up and our struggle will continue,” he said. Nearly 14 years after the Pathribhal fake encounter that rocked Jammu and Kashmir, Army closed the Pathribal fake encounter case saying the evidence recorded could not establish primefacie charges against any of the five accused Army persons. (CNS)
Valley evening. He was later identified as Abdul Rashid Gagi son of Abdul Rehman resident of Hayan Palpora who was reported to be missing since 23-03-2014, the official said. Police after conducting all legal formalities in all the incidents handed over the bodies of deceased to their families for last rites, the official said. He said that police have registered cases under section 174 CrPc in all the incidents and have started further investigations, the official added. (GNS)
Army searches in the area said that no one was arrested during the operation. Last evening, the joint team of forces acting on specific information had cordoned off Dadsar village during which militants managed to flee before firing upon the forces. However, no one was injured in the firing incident. (GNS)
CRPF inaugurates community centre at Mattan SHAHID WANI Anantnag, March 25: Keeping in view a long pending demand by the local residents of Mattan area of district Anantnag, 116 Bn CRPF constructed a community centre in Mattan Cricket Stadium under Civic Action Programme. This community centre was constructed by the jawans within 10 days despite heavy snowfall and rains in the area. Inauguration of this community centre was carried out by Shri O.S.Charak DIGP (Ops) Anantnag on 25 Th March 2014 in the presence of Shri Satish Kumar Linda Commandant 116 Bn and other senior officers of the unit and handed
over to the District Sports Officer Anantnag for use
of the local youths and sports-persons. Besides this 116 Bn has also distributed various sports articles and computers in the school and medicines among the local residents of pahalgam under civic action programme.
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SRINAGAR | WEDNESDAY, MARCH | 26 | 2014
Kejriwal accepts Varanasi challenge, says he will contest election against Modi VARANASI: AAP leader Arvind KeThe man who threw the ink was jriwal on Tuesday announced he was identified as Ambrish, said to be a ready to contest the Lok Sabha election member of Hindu Vahini Sena. Police from Varanasi, the place from where whisked him away. All through the BJP’s prime ministerial nominee Na- route, many waved black flags and rendra Modi has already announced raised anti-AAP slogans. his candidature. Earlier, Kejriwal took a dip in the Challenging Modi to an open de- Ganges. His forehead was smeared bate, Kejriwal launched a scathing at- with sandalwood paste as he came out tack on BJP’s PM nominee at a rally in of the Kashi Vishwanath temple, a VaVaranasi. ranasi landmark. Earlier in the day, eggs were thrown Kejriwal added: “I prayed to God to at his car outside the Kashi Vishwanath give me the strength to fight and save temple, with the protesters steadily the country.” raising anti-Kejriwal slogans and askKejriwal supporters in hundreds ing him to leave the Hindu holy city. have been campaigning for him for Calling him a “traitor”, hundreds of days in Varanasi. slogan-shouting people blocked his Vaibhav Maheshwari, who handles cavalcade while keeping up a steady the media for the AAP in Uttar Pradesh, chant of “Modi! Modi!”. earlier told IANS that the Kejriwal-MoSecurity personnel had a tough di contest would not be symbolic. He time controlling the crowd. The dem- said its outcome would be “stunning”. Lone Newsonly Agency Khan Newsthe Agency onstrators said they wanted Gu-KanganKejriwal, who founded AAP Ganderbal Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot jarat chief minister Modi to contest the in November 2012, led the party to aChadoora Tariq News Agency Hawal BashirinNews Agency Nowhatta Lok Sabha battle from Varanasi. dramatic debut in Delhi December Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk The ink stained his face and clothes 2013 by winning 28 of the 70 seats, Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk and also those of his party leaders and then formed a minority governGupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh. ment that lasted 49 days. 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 Kunzar News Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal RAJOURI, MARCHDar 25:-In continuation to series of proReshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Pattan grammes being conducted under SVEEP, an important Agency Reyaz News Agency Pampore event was organisedBasharat by nodalNews officer, SVEEP Bandipora in coordinaAltaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund tion with ARTO and tehsildar at Rajouri. JAMMU, MARCH 25- On the The first session was presided The SVEEP stickers prepared the officials with the Jeelani NewsbyAgency Baramulla G.M News Sopore second and Agency concluding day of over by Prof Rattan Lal Shant and message ‘’ YOUR VOTE exhort voters ShahYOUR News RIGHT Agency‘‘to Kupwara Handwara theSultan 2-dayNews UrduAgency Conference, orga- Prof B N Trisal while Ghulam Nabi to vote responsibly were and on the back Younisglued Newsinside Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad nized by the J&K Academy of Art, Khayal and Dr Jiteinder Udhamside of passengers vehicles being run inIslamabad the district. In Reshi News Agency Three&Way News Agency Tral Culture Languages, six research puri presided over the second addition, banners were installed prominent Turray Newsat Agency Tral locations Badru News Agency Bijbehara papers were presented in the two session. in the district with the motivating messages like’’ Youth Rahi News Agency Kulgam Malik News Arwani sessions today.Agency The papers were The audience, present in large Chalo Booth’’. thoroughly discussed during numbers, took keen interest in Rah News Agency Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil
DDC Ramban inaugurated canteen of DC office complex RAMBAN, MARCH 25-District Development Commis-
sioner Ramban MH Malik inaugurated Canteen in the premises of DC office complex Ramban established by the Co-operative society Ramban on Tuesday. DDC accompanied by the ADDC, ADC and other officers of district administration took the stock of the services being provided by the co-operative society to the costumers and directed the Assistant Registrar co- operative Ramban to Keep regular check upon the service, rates and quality of eatables.
the proceedings of the conference and asked questions and gave observations on the papers. Prominent writers and poets sat through the proceedings and made the conference lively through their interventions and opinions. In the afternoon, an All-Jammu Urdu Mushaira was held as the concluding part of the conference. Poets who recited their verses and received applause from the audience include Arsh
This is a terrific day for you, Taurus. You should find that your relationships, especially with men, go exceptionally well. Your tender and extremely sensitive nature is finally being recognized as the treasure chest it is. There are many times in which this type of personality is seen as weak, yet today is one of those times in which you’re given the full credit you deserve.
Gemini May 21-June 21
A selfish attitude on your part won’t be tolerated today, regardless of the circumstances, Gemini. Don’t make it worse for yourself by pretending that you don’t notice others’ hurt feelings. People are likely to be extra sensitive today, so be careful about trying to impose your will on someone who really wants nothing more than an ear to talk to and a shoulder to cry on.
Cancer June 22-July 22
Sehbayi, Vidya Ratan Aasi, Pritpal Singh Betab, Sabir Mirza, Khurshid Kazmi, Balraj Bakhshi, Raj Kumar Chandan, Betab Jaipuri, Aseer Kishtwari, Manshoor Banihali, Khalid Karaar, Pervaiz Malik, Amin Banihali, Mohan Singh Ulfat, Sagar Sehrayee, Sham Talib, Sheikh Sajad Poonchi, Ushaq Kishtwari, Tanveer Bhadarwahi, Rahat Hussain Rahat, Omar Farhat, Ghulam Nabi Ghafil and Omkar Raina. Noted poet Arsh Sehbayee presided over the proceedings of the mushaira while Dr. Shahnawaz conducted the proceedings. Pertinently, the Urdu Conference was the seventh in the series of language conferences held by the Academy since November 2012.
CEO chairs state MCMC meeting Committee attends ECI video conference JAMMU, MARCH 25– Chief Electoral Officer, J&K Umang Narula chaired a meeting of the State Level Media Monitoring and Certification Committee (MCMC) meeting, here today. Director Information Tasaduq Jeelani, Additional DG (M&C), Press Information Bureau, Obaidur Rahman, Assistant Director, News, Doordarshan Sanjit Khajuria, Journalist S.P. Sharma and Dy. CEO Rashpal Singh attended the meeting. Under the directions of the ECI, the State Level MCMC under the chairmanship of the CEO has already been constituted. The committee held exhaustive discussions on all
issues relating to certification of advertisement on television channel and cable network by registered political parties having headquarters in the State and organizations or group of persons or associations having registered offices in the state. The state MCMC also discussed matters pertaining to paid news and cases received from the respective Returning Officers. The MCMC has been established at various levels; at the district level the MCMC would monitor all cases of
You could find the hardest person to face is you, Cancer. You tend toward introspection, and you may find yourself shrinking into self-recrimination. You could analyze the important people in your life and yet fail to address the one you really need to look at – you. As you continually strive for perfection, give yourself proper credit. Do something nice for yourself today.
Leo
July 23-August 22 Take advantage of the creative energy in the air today, Leo. Keep your hands moving and your imagination flowing toward something fun and artistic. If you begin to doubt your work, you may fall down a spiral of creative blockage. Don’t get into the habit of constantly judging the quality or outcome of your work. Give yourself free rein to open up and explore whatever comes to mind.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Your sixth sense is right on target, Virgo, so trust your instincts today. You’re likely to connect with someone in a wonderful partnership that will help you foster the very plan you want to develop now. Stay close to those things that resonate strongly with your morals. The answer is in front of you; you don’t have to search too far afield in order to find it.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Take a break from your routine, Libra. You might feel like you’re leading an army into battle as you strive for new adventures and conquer new realms. Make sure you take a bit of time out today to stop and let your troops rest. You deserve a little rest yourself. Use this moment of stillness to form your plan of attack so you’re sure about how to proceed.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 The key for you is to minimize your daily drama as much as possible, Scorpio. You may not realize how much you cripple yourself by the way you exaggerate every aspect of your life. Try not to give so much of your attention to things that really don’t matter much. Petty jealousy and gossip about other people’s lives are especially irrelevant in your world.
Sagittarius paid news at district level. The RO will also be giving the certification of advertisement for individual contesting candidates before these are inserted in the electronic media. The State level MCMC shall decide on appeals from
Inf deptt organizes prog on environment & social issues JAMMU, MARCH 25-Providing an opportunity to young minds to express themselves and encourage them to exhibit their hidden ability on a proper platform, the Department of Information organized a programme on environmental and social issues at Bal Niketan, Ved Mandir here today.On the occasion, Joint Director Information, Smita Sethi was the chief guest while Vice President Bal Niketan Captain Purshotum Sharma presided.Interacting with the inmates, the Joint Director lauded them for possessing such immense aptitude and flair that they could be ranked amongst the finest speakers. She said the way each speaker expressed their outlook on diverse issues was not only charismatic but also revealed the talent they have and if provided an opportunity these children could prove the most excellent. Students participated actively in the programme and shared views on different environment and social issues confronting the society. They express concern over the social evils and environmental degrada-
March 21-April 19
Allow your eager and restless nature to express itself in ways other than through the spoken word, Aries. Show someone that you care through your gentle touch or a big bear hug. Hold on a little bit more tightly than you might normally. There’s an unspoken understanding that comes when you communicate through nothing but pure silence. Work on developing this kind of connection with those closest to you.
April 20-May 20
Urdu conference concludes with exciting Urdu Muashaira
question-answer sessions. The first paper was presented by Dr. Ayaz Rasool Nazki on Urdu poets of Kashmir, the second by Prof. Asadullal Wani on Urdu poets of Jammu and the third by Dr. Nazir Azad on Challenges confronting Urdu ghazal in J&K. In the post-lunch session, Dr. Premi Romani, and Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Wani presented papers on Urdu Nazm (poem) in J&K and post-1947 Urdu poetry in J&K, respectively.
Aries
Taurus
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Programme under SVEEP held at Rajouri
HOROSCOPE
tion and also gave concrete suggestions on preserving the ecological balance and weeding out social crimes.Students participated actively in the programme and shared views on different environment and social issues confronting the society. They express concern over the social evils and environmental degradation and also gave concrete suggestions on preserving the ecological balance and weeding out social crimes.On the occasion, Mrs. Sethi presented trophies and prizes to the best adjudged speakers.Asha Devi of class 9th was awarded first prize while second prize was bagged jointly by Sheetal, Simran and Usha of 8th standard. Vijay of class 8th clinched 3rd prize and consolation prize was presented to both Omkar and Simran of 8th standard. The management of Bal Niketan expressed gratitude to the Information Department for providing such an opportunity to the inmates encouraging them to perform better on bigger forum.
both district and Addl/Jt. CEO committees on certification of advertisement and examine all cases of paid news on appeal against the decision of District MCMC or cases that may take up suo motu, in which case it shall direct the concerned ROs
to issue notices to the candidates. Later, the committee also attended a video conference organized by the Election Commission of India with regard to pre-certification and paid news.
November 22-December 21
Be careful of advertising yourself as someone who is so strong and mentally competent that you’re capable of handling everything, Sagittarius. Take note that the strongest mule on the trail usually ends up carrying the most weight. Your emotions are more sensitive than you may think, and certainly more than you demonstrate to others. Be honest about the way you feel and not just the way you think.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Jirga campaign for tribal voters receives huge response REASI, MARCH 25:- A special drive to encourage the tribal voters was launched in various remote villages of Reasi district following a study carried out by the district administration in November 2013 which revealed that during 2009 general elections only 20% of the tribal population cast their vote in the district whereas over all voting percentage of district remained around 44 percent.The drive has been launched in the jurisdiction of 94 polling stations covering over nineteen thousand tribal voters of the district. Started from village Sarsote in Gulabgarh, which recorded voting percentage of 22.44 percent in last general election, the campaign made the villagers aware about their voting right and importance of their ballot. The officials also organised a series of EVM familiarization camps in tribal
hamlets located in inaccessible areas. A team of officers headed by Dr Sanjeev Kumar, District Officer, Sheep Husbandry Department, organised more than 26 “Tribal Jirga” in Gulabgarh area to educate the nomadic gujjars and bakkerwals under SVEEP campaign launched by the District Administration, Reasi. During the camps, the voters list was read out and the people, who are not registered yet, were asked to fill form 6. The District Election Officer, Dr Shahid Iqbal, said that the drive is aimed to motivate around 19000 tribal people to participate in the ensuing elections. Various special camps are being organized across the district which will last till March 26 besides special drive for ethical informed voting for tribal population has also been designed.
Things should flow well for you today with very little effort on your part, Capricorn. Take note that if any quarrel arises, it’s an indication that the person you’re arguing with isn’t necessarily the right person to deal with or confide in. Emotional issues are likely to be the hardest ones to overcome, but this shouldn’t be a problem for you. You have the ability to work through these like a pro.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
This is meant to be a nice, relaxing day, so treat it as such, Aquarius. There’s no need for you to plan any great strategy at this time. Try to take it easy and not indulge in any unnecessary stress. This is your time to enjoy the moment. Don’t tax your mind by overanalyzing everything that comes your way. Go with the flow and have a great time regardless of what you end up doing.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 Your sensual nature is heightened, Pisces, and you’ll find yourself engaged in tender moments and languid peacefulness in the company of others. Soothe your soul by letting yourself slip into situations that give you the emotional freedom to do or say whatever comes to mind. Life should be like a love poem written by a great master. Accept the good energy that comes your way.
EDITORIAL OPINION EDITORIAL/ OPINION Let legislators be Unemployment asproblem parliamentar-a ians as they are challenge for any expected to be government
TT
unfortunate happenings hehestate of Jammu & in the Legislative Assembly Kashmir called paradise in nohas way excelled conducive in for onare earth many fields for bodies dubious reathe constitutional like legissons other than the positive latures which are symbolic of digones could have taken nity,which Parliamentarian behaviour, this state forward rapidly maon statesmanship and political the pathofofthe peace, progress and turity society as a whole. prosperity. Declared as one The dent such incidents causeofto the most corrupt statesare of the democratic institutions fatal county, now it has achieved and uncalled for. India is the largone more dubious distinction democracy world which of est being one of ofthe the leading symbolizes deep rooted phistates in the the field of unemploylosophy ofstate supermacy of constitument. The has according and democratic foundations totion estimates over 8 lakh educatprovide solution every edwhich unemployed youth to which problem through negotiations and means that every one person sittingtwelve across the table. The leginby every individuals is islatures which enact laws to guide unemployed. The unemployment is mostly found in eduthe whole nation and the states cated youths as the state does should really look as the bodies of not have and enough avenues to decency patience and not like accommodate thousands of the state Assemblies or Parliament young men coming out of uniis looking for the past few days. If versities and colleges every the constitutional bodies are not year. One more disadvantage allowed to function, how can they with the is that, no fulfill thestate aspirations ofitthehas people corporate or industrial sector whom they represent and whose which could provide employeyesto are alwayschunk fixed on them for ment a large of people. thestate solution of their The The being oneproblems. of the most legislators are elected the can peoenvironmentally richby state ple withafford a purpose if that purhardly anyand industries pose iswill not destroy served then is the which itswhat natural fun ofand wasting cores of rupees on beauty imbalance its ecolholding the elections. The Govt. ogy. It is because of this reason that neither the government should also behave as responsible can those industries as it allow should be. It should allow the which pollute nor opposition to atmosphere pose the problems will the people of the state al-is of the people so that a solution low that out. to happen. This leaves carved If the Govt. tries to sithe whole dependence of theis lence the opposition then what educated youth governthe fun of sittingoninthe these august ment sector and this sector houses. The real test of democracy has very less capacity to cope comes when the opposition raisup with the situation. Whates the public issues the Govt. ever resources are and for recruitpatiently and triesby to sevsolve ment thoselistens are marred them. The present session is pereral hurdles and impediments. haps the last but in certainly the last The red-tapism bureaucrasession, hence it is imcy,Budget the slow pace of recruitperative for bothand opposition ment agencies above and all Govt. to take maximum benefit of the corruption in recruitment time andinutilize for the welis the resulting the it frustration amongst youth their fare of the people.who Nowsee as the Lok future very bleak and dark. Sabha Elections are nearing, the This in code frustration of conduct willresults be in force, dragging these youth to severhence the developmental aspect al has social evils including drugs, to be kept in mind. Both opunethical activities, andtothose position and Govt. has go to indecent which a society will people who will judge them on never appreciate. The various performance and what they are governments which come into doing have in the state legislature. It is power miserably failed duty of the the people’s represeninthe curbing corruption, in tatives to solve them with best taking steps to improve theof theirofcapabilities and the pace recruitment andunfortuto renate incidents in which memmove red-tapism in two employbers ofgeneration the Assembly had to suffer ment activities. should not begovernallowed It physically needs a committed to bearepeated. Therecruitment language and ment, clear cut policy, corruption free gestures used is the pastrecruitand also ing agencies and fast track syson many occasions by some memtem to tackle bersofdorecruitment not suit the parliamentarthe unemployment problem to ianism, and statesmanship. some extent.
Daily Daily
ZabarwanTimes Times Zabarwan
Srinagar, Wednesday 26 March2014 2014 Srinagar, Thursday 13 February
The Largest Tribal Religious Congregation at Sammakka Sarakka Jathara
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ammakka Sarakka Jathara or Medaram Jathara is the largest tribal religious congregation in the country. The biannual Jathara takes place at Medaram village of Tadvai Mandal in Warangal district, in Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh. Approximately one crore devotees are expected to take part this time at the Jathara to be held between February 12 to 15, 2014. A little festival of tribal’s in a small village has become a major pilgrimage in the last six years. This festival is held to get the blessings of goddesses Sammakka and Sarakka. It's believed that in those 3 to 4 days of the Jathara, goddesses’ real presence is felt. With the Jathara nearing, arrangements at Medaram village have also been picking up speed. It might be noted that about 80 lakh pilgrims had taken part in the Jathara last time. The Sammakka Jathara was declared as a state festival by Andhra Pradesh government in 1998. Devotees in large number from neighbouring districts and different states including Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odessa, Maharastra, Karnataka and Jharkand participate at the Jathara. People offer bangaram (gold) in the form of jaggery of a quantity equal to their weight to the goddesses and take holy bath in Jampanna Vagu (stream). It is a festival with no Vedic or Brahmanic influence. Jampanna Vagu is a tributary to River Godavari. According to the history, Jampanna is the tribal warrior and the son of Tribal Goddess Sammakka. The Jampanna vagu took his name as he died in a battle fighting against Kakatiyan Army in that stream. The Jampanna vagu is still red in colour believed to be with the blood of Jampanna (Scientifically the red colour of the water is attributed to the soil composition). Devotees believe that taking a holy dip in the red water of Jampanna Vagu reminds of the sacrifice of their gods who save them and also induces courage into their souls.
The actual festival begins in the month of Magha, on Sudha Pournami (full moon day) evening when Sarakka (in the form of vermilion) would be traditionally brought from Kanneboyinapalle, a neibhouring village in the forest, and placed on a gadde, an earthen platform raised under a tree. By next sunset, the main goddess Sammakka (in the form of vermilion) will be brought from Chilukalagutta. There are two gaddes (platforms) separately one for goddess "Sammakka" and other for goddess "Sarakka". They are represented by bamboo sticks smeared with turmeric and vermilion (Pasupu and Kunkuma). Since time immemorial, there is a huge tree standing on Sammakka gadde. Hundreds of people who are often believed to be possessed by the goddess come here dancing ecstatically throughout their journey. People believe that Goddesses Sammakka, Saralamma fulfill their desires with their divine and miraculous powers. Couples visit to pray to the goddess to bless them with children. Many pilgrim pay their promises made to goddess during the Jathara, by offering jaggery, calf's, coconuts and donations in cash etc. Pilgrims take bathe in Jampanna stream to get purified and absolve from sins. When the priests bring out the ochre box and other relics from a hidden forest location, there is great tumult with frenzied beating of drums, blowing of trumpets and full throated yells. It is said that during the festival a huge tiger prowls around peacefully. According to a tribal story, in the 13th century some tribal leaders who went for hunting found a new born girl (Sammakka) emitting enormous light and playing amidst tigers. She was taken to their habitation. The head of the tribe adopted her and later she became the saviour of the tribals of that region. She was married to Pagididda Raju, a feudatory tribal chief of Kakatiyas, who ruled Warangal area. She was blessed with 2 daughters and one son namely Sarak-
ka, Nagulamma and Jampanna respectively. After sometime, there was a severe drought that lasted for years and as a result the mighty Godavari River dried up. Pagididda Raju didn't pay tribute to King Pratapa Rudra. In turn king Pratapa rudra sent his army to subdue the tribals and collect the tribute. Then a War was fought between tribal chief Pagididda Raju and Kakatiya army on the banks of "Sampenga Vagu" (Jampanna Vagu). The Koya army fought valiantly but could not withstand the well equipped Kakatiya army. Though fought valiantly Pagididda Raju, his daughters Sarakka, Nagulamma, son in law Govinda Raju lost (husband of Sarakka) lives in the battle. Later Jampanna also dies in Sampenga Vagu (after renamed as Jampanna Vagu in the memory of his heroic fight against well trained Kakatiya army). Upon hearing this news Sammakka also enters war and fights and causes lot of damage to Kakatiya army. Surprised by her Bravery and Valour the Kakatiya Prime Minister visited war ravaged Koya kingdom with proposal of peace and offered Sammakka a place in the emperor’s harem as the chief queen. Sammakka turned down the offer and resolved to continue the fight to avenge the dead. The battle continued and Sammakka was seriously wounded. Sammakka told her people that as long as they remembered her, she would protect them. Then, she cursed the Kaktiya dynasty to perish and with that wounded body proceeded towards Chilakala gutta and disappeared in the forest. The grieving Koyas searched for their queen all they found were a red ochre box (a container of vermilion), her bangles and the pug marks of a huge full grown tigress, exactly the same place where she was found as an infant by the koyas. The Kakatiya dynasty came to an end very soon. Since then the Koyas, Waddaras and other Indian tribes and castes have been holding festivals in memory of Sammakka and Sarakka regularly.
Latest Technique in Mineral Exploration Technology Infusion envisaged during XII Five Year Plan Period
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SI has made phenomenonal contributions in the mineral sector and is carrying out systematic investigation for mineral resource assessment of the country in geologically potential areas through modern and sophisticated exploration methods involving modern geological mapping techniques, geomorphological and lineament mapping through study of satellite imageries, aero and ground geophysical studies and geochemical mapping. As part of this GSI has initiated extensive programme of modernization on the advice of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Industries, and as per guidelines laid down by an Expert Panel on Modernization of GSI. The modernization programme is aimed to improve the regional exploration for assessment of natural resources by infusion of latest state of art technology. The technology infusion envisaged during the 12th Five Year Plan period is” Ø Strengthening of the state of the art equipment in chemical laboratories like ICP-MS, ICP-AES to match world standard in precision and also facilitate logical conclusion of mineral exploration within scheduled time. Ø Modernization and augmentation of equipment for ground geophysical survey like multi-channel gamma ray spectrometry, multi frequency EM system etc. Ø High-end petrological instrument for diamond, strategic and PGE exploration. Ø State of the art drilling machine (reverse circulation, hydraulic etc.). In order to improve the quality of exploration for mineral resources of the country, following equipment / instruments were procured or in the process of procurement as per the plan: § Airborne surveys including airborne magnetic, electromagnetic and gamma-ray surveys have proved quite useful in identifying first order target areas
worldwide and may be used as direct tool in exploration. The airborne survey is strengthened by procurement of heliborne multi-sensor airborne survey system comprising on board sensors like magnetic, gravity, time domain electromagnetic (TDEM) and gamma ray spectrometry and hyper spectrometry. § Application of geochemistry to mineral exploration, adopting conventional as well as advanced geochemical techniques, in soil surveys, stream-sediment surveys, vapour surveys and bedrock surveys has proved useful in detection of dispersion haloes of hidden ore bodies. To strengthen the geochemical exploration GSI has upgraded its regional laboratories by procurement of sophisticated instruments like ICPMS, EPMA etc. for low detection analytical determinations particularly for elements like gold, PGE, rare earth etc. § Application of time-tested geophysical techniques in locating concealed deposits is considered as one of the most effective exploration tools. Ground geophysical survey is being strengthened by procuring new sophisticated instruments like Multi electrode resistivity-IP unit, multi frequency EM profiling unit etc. § GSI has procured magneto telluric (MT) instrument to strengthen its geophysical survey over Indian craton to image the sub continental lithospheric mantle (SCLM). The outcome of the survey will enhance the scientific knowledge of the deeper parts of the earth and will help to model the process of craton formation more accurately which in turn will help in targeting concealed ore bodies/kimberlite bodies (KCR) § GSI carries out offshore surveys and mineral resource evaluation in the EEZ and TW. To strengthen the marine survey GSI is procuring one deep Ocean Going Research Vessel from M/s Hyundai Heavy Industries, South Korea. This will help in assessing the mineral/natural resources present in EEZ of our country.
The details of technological upgradation with adequate instrumental back up is as follows: o In the field of Thematic Geological Mapping (TGM), the technology infusion that has been envisaged includes: Field Laptop, or Table PC, Mapping GPS unit, GSI Portal, mobile mapping vans with portable generator. o In view of completion of systematic geological mapping over the country, an Integrated Thematic Mapping (ITM) has been visualized with required technology infusion that includes: Ground Penetration Radars [GPR], shallow drills, deep drills, Electron Probe Micro Analyzer etc. o As a redressal measure for effective analytical output with lower detection limits of geochemical samples, augmentation of the state of the art instruments such as ICPMS, AAS, XRF and DMA, in the laboratories of GSI has been incorporated. o In the field of geophysical mapping, the technology infusion that is being proposed includes high precision gravimeter and total field magnetometer. · For hyperspectral mapping, Space borne and Airborne Hyperion data with specific spectral range (necessary for geological objects) are to be procured and utilized. In this context, it is contemplated to have a continuous acquisition of hyperspectral data in collaboration with ISRO/ NRSG/NNRMS. · To enhance the pace of drilling and quality/reliability of subsurface information, it is necessary to induct improved techniques and equipment such as reverse circulation drilling with inbuilt system for controlled deflection of borehole path and adopting a combination of coring and non-coring operations in a single borehole. Rotary Air Blast (RAB) drilling which is fastest and cheap method is also to be inducted. State of the art drilling machines such as reverse circulation, hydraulic rigs, etc., are in the process of procurement.
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