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27 March | 2014 | 27 Jamadi-Ul-Awal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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Dhoni a suitable choice as a leader
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Srinagar, March 26: A youth was found dead in his car while a semi-decomposed body of a mentally challenged person was found in the jungle area in Kupwara District. Kupwara police has taken up investigations to ascertain the cause of the deaths. Kupwara Police recovered a male body from an Alto vehicle (JK091139) near forest hut Waya in suspicious circumstances. The deceased was later identified as 23 years old Almas Ahmad Bhat son of Ghulam Hassan Bhat resident of Bomihama, Kupwara. Meanwhile, a semi-decomposed body of Iqbal Ahmad Mir son of Muhammad Jabbar Mir resident of Tikker was recovered from Jugtiyal forests of Kupwara. The deceased was reportedly mentally challenged who had gone missing in February last month. (CNS)
Missing Kashmir boy traced in Maharashtra
Srinagar, March 26: Delhi Police Wednesday said that it has solved the mystery of a Kashmiri boy who was missing from the last 4 months. A Delhi police official told Srinagar based news gathering agency CNS that 15 year old Roman Amin Ganai of Jandwaal in Pulwama who had gone missing from Mahindra Park area in Azadpora New Delhi on November 20 last year was located by Delhi police from Manjhgawoun area of Maharashtra. “After receiving inputs we raided a deserted dilapidated hut in Manjhgawoun area of Maharashtra. The boy is stable See Missing On Page 11..
Inside story LS polls: Woman contestant in Kashmir after two decades Srinagar, March 26 (GNS) After a gap of two decades, a woman is set to contest parliamentary elections in Jammu and Kashmir as an independent candidate. Nirupama Kaul alias Rabia Baji, who runs a non-governmental group in Kashmir, Thursday announced that she will contest the election from Srinagar slated in the months of
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On Edit Page Value the vote and fulfill the aspirations of voters With the arrival of Narinder Modi in Jammu the electioneering has picked up and election rallies, meetings and road shows are being held in every nook and corner of the state which has six Lok Sabha seats. Though a sensitive state with still a lots of militancy infested areas, the overall campaigning has by and large been satisfactory and better than some other states. In the first phase Jammu parliamentary constituency will got to polls which will be followed by Udhampur and then the four seats
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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.
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Not forgotten the thrashing by Aussies
Governor reviews arrangements for Shri Amarnathji Yatra- 2014
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2 bodies recovered in Kupwara
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
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Congress releases party manifesto New Delhi, March 26: The Congress party on Wednesday released its manifesto for the upcoming 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Party president Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi released the manifesto at the party office in New Delhi. Releasing the party's manifesto 'Your Voice, Our Pledge' in New Delhi, they debunked the opinion polls, which predict a dismal show by the UPA, and said everybody will be "surprised" by the results. On the upbeat campaign mounted by NDA under Modi, Rahul said, "Just like the 'India Shining' bal-
loon exploded... I can say certainly the balloon will explode." "India shining was an excellent campaign. They thought they will get 350 seats. But it evaporated when the results came. I am confident that like the balloon of India Shining, this time also the balloon will explode," he said. With Congress fighting the elections with its back to the wall on a variety of issues including corruption and price rise. He, however, said mechanisms have been put in place to deal with it.The 49-page manifesto was prepared over five See Congress On Page 11..
Obnoxiously stinking garbage dumps at Fateh Kadal expose the SMC’s slogan-Clean Srinagar, Green Srinagar Pic: Gulzar Dar
Modi promises to carry forward Vajpayee's policies on Kashmir Jammu, March 26: Against the backdrop of parties in Kashmir praising the previous NDA government's initiatives in the Valley, Narendra Modi promised to carry forward the policies of Atal Bihari Vajpayee to change the fate of Kashmir. "The path shown by Vajpayee -- humanity, democracy and Kashmiriyat -- we will carry forward," the BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate said addressing the first "Bharat Vijay Rally" at Hira Nagar near Jammu on Wednesday. He said that if Vajpayee government had got another five years, it would have changed the face of Kashmir and problems would have ended. His comments assume significance as mainstream political parties of the state including ruling National Conference and opposition PDP as well as moderate separatist- Hurriyat Conference led by Mirwaiz Umer Farooq - have, of late, been praising the Vajpayee government for its initiatives relating to Kashmir. Modi, who paid obeisance at Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine ahead of his address, neither made any reference to Article 370 this time nor replied to the challenge thrown by state Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for discussing it. This was the second rally being addressed by Modi in Jammu region. He had addressed a rally on 1st December last year during which he had stirred a controversy by demanding a dialogue on Article 370 which guarantees a special status to the state. However, after he was challenged by state Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for a discussion on Article 370, both BJP as well as Modi never raked up the issue again.
During Wednesday’s rally, retired IPS officer Farooq Khan, who has been in the forefront of anti-militan- cy operations in Jammu a n d Kashm i r , joined BJP.
Kejriwal slams Modi over Pakistani agent remarks Mar 26: Aam Aadmi Party convener Arvind Kejriwal has slammed BJP leader Narendra Modi for describing him as a Pakistani agent at a rally in Jammu today. In a tweet, Kejriwal asked does it suit a person aspiring to be the Prime Minister to utter improper comments against his opponents? The Aam Aadmi Party leader said Modi has refused to respond on his compulsions to give tickets to tainted people like B S Yeddyurappa and B Sriramulu. He said, the Gujarat Chief Minister has also refused to talk about farmer suicides in his State.
NC ridicules Modi’s statement on Kashmir
Need positive response from National, regional parties: PDP Srinagar, Mar 26 (KNS): With the ruling National Conference (NC) ridiculing the statement of Modi that BJP will follow Vajpayee’s policy on Kashmir, opposition Peoples’ Democratic Party observed that for Kashmir resolutionthey need positive response from both National and regional parties of India. “We do not trust the person like Modi and the party like BJP. It is the par-
ty that sidelined the close associates of Shri Vajpayee- how come will they follow policy of Vajpayee,” Provincial president NC Nasir Aslam Wani told KNS, adding that Modi will never reach to the stature of Vajpayee. He said that Modi is against special status of Jammu and Kashmir and how can people of the state trust his credentials. See PDP On Page 11...
NC custodian of identity, secularism: Farooq Abdullah JK witnessed unprecedented development: Omar Srinagar, Mar 26: National Conference President and Senior Cabinet Minister in the UPA Government, Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that the 2014 Parliamentary Elections offered a significant opportunity to stop communal forces in India from attaining a position which would allow them to carry forward their agenda of dividing the people of this country on the basis of religion, caste and creed. According to a statement issued to KNS, Dr. Farooq said that the idea of India is one of a secular and inclusive nation and Narendra Modi opposes everything that the founders of this nation enshrined in the constitution and history of India. Speaking at a workers’ meeting at NC District Office in Budgam, Dr. Farooq said that
there was a threat at our doors that needs to be defeated if we have to safeguard the interests of the people of this State and of this country. The Narendra Modi who ruthlessly and arro-
gantly disrespected and sidelined his own seniors and mentors in BJP, can offer no hope of inclusiveness to the people of this country. See Omar On Page 11..
BOPEE paper leak scam
Court declares 14 accused as proclaimed offenders Srinagar, Mar 26: A city court on Wednesday declared 14 accused including six students and eight parents involved in the Board of Professional Entrance Examination (BOPEE) paper leak scam of 2012 as proclaimed offenders. Sources told KNS that if they fail to appear before the April 24 as has been directed by the court, their properties can be attached by the Crime Branch.
“Performance of present coalition appears only on papers” PDP earned credibility of all sections of society: Mufti Jammu, Mar 26: Calling upon the people to compare performance of three year tenure of PDP led government with the decades long mis-governance of successive National Conference led regimes, patron of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that in span of just three years, the PDP led regime has carved out a path of peace and equitable development in Jammu and Kashmir. See Mufti On Page 11..
Elections not a referendum on Kashmir: JeI ‘Can’t go for door-to-door poll boycott campaign’ Srinagar, Mar 26 : Jamat-e-Islami (JeI) has termed elections as an administrative issue-stating that the same is neither a referendum nor a plebiscite as far as the Kashmir issue is concerned. “Elections are for the administrative affairs and in no way can affect any dimension of Kashmir dispute. Polls are for electricity, roads and water-since 1947 polls never affected reality of Kashmir dispute,” Mohammad Abdullah Wani-JeI chief told KNS. He added polls can never be a substitute of Kashmir resolution as the same is not a referendum nor a plebiscite but clearly an exercise for administrative issues. “Even if 3% people vote- we have seen in the past that gov-
Notice to this effect has been issued by the court and the matter has been listed for hearing on April 24. It may be recalled that the High Court had also directed the Crime Branch to use its tools to arrest the absconding student beneficiaries involved in the scam. On March 1, the Crime Branch had filed supplementary See BOPEE On Page 11..
ernments form. If only 1% people will vote still the formation of the government is inevitable.” Reacting to the recent statement of Huriyat Conference (M) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq wherein he described the role of NDA vis-à-vis Kashmir more than UPA, JeI chief stated that everyone has right to express the opinion about any mater but it has been the policy of every Indian government to maintain rigid attitude towards Kashmir. “If the governments in India would have been serious for Kashmir resolutionthe same would have been resolved long ago.” Stating that election boycott is not the one point agenda See JeI On Page 11..
Mir not to contest LS elections ‘No Third Front exists in Kashmir’
Srinagar, Mar 26: Minister for agriculture and president Democratic Party Nationalist (DPN) Ghulam Hassan Mir on Wednesday said that his party has decided not to contest the upcoming parliamentary elections in the state. Talking to KNS, Mir said: “My party is not so big to contest the parliamentary elections in the state. We will rather concentrate on contesting assembly elections more effectively,” the president DPN observed. When asked about emerging political situation ahead of upcoming Lok Sabah elections, Mir said that the contest will be between different political parties and not See Mir On Page 11..
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FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Congress months using a different approach of consulting people which Rahul did. It promised an ambitious six-point charter of pro-poor measures, including the right to affordable healthcare, housing and pension, and to uplift 80 crore of the population to the middle class. Amid demands that job reservation be extended to private sector, the party committed itself to creating a national consensus on affirmative action in this regard. It has also set out a special Youth and Student Agenda committing to train 10 crore youth and give them employment opportunities in five years. Rahul along with Sonia Gandhi debunked the opinion polls which project a dismal show for the Congress. "I frankly don't have much faith in the opinion polls. In 2004 also, the story of Congress was over as per the opinion polls. In 2009 also, we were given no chance. But we got more seats. So, we cannot go 100 per cent by the opinion polls," the Congress president said. Rahul also talked in same vein, saying in 2009 Congress was projected to suffer badly and predicted NDA wave. In UP, Congress was projected to get 5 seats (but it got 22 seats). "You did not believe us then. When the results come (this time), you will be surprised," he added. At the function to release the manifesto, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi hailed the 10-year rule of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as they promised a slew of initiatives under the "New Vision". "The 2014 polls is not only about programmes, policies, planning and economic development but also to preserve the Constitutional structure of the country envisaged by our freedom fighters. We will fight in these elections, not for uniformity but for unity. "We will struggle for such India which is secular and inclusive and does not pit one against the other. We will struggle for such an India in which religion, region and language are not important and in which all are considered Indians," Sonia Gandhi said. Insisting that the country had witnessed the fastest economic growth during the last 10 years, the Prime Minister hit out at Modi's model of development. "Development has many models. One hears these days about Gujarat model of development. Congress model is one which recognizes that the growing economic provides answers to all concerns," he said. "Growth by itself is not enough to achieve solid results of inclusive progress. It needs to be backed by education, healthcare and needs of women, SCs, STs and OBCs," Singh said. Contending that "attempts of disinformation" are being made, he said that in all respects, the record of the UPA has been "superior" to that of NDA. He said the concerns and needs of all sections of the society can be addressed by an ideology which seeks to unite.
PDP PDP stated that they will wait and watch for the policy of NDA vis-à-vis Kashmir issue and that Kashmir resolution is a great challenge to India’s entire political spectrum. “Jammu and Kashmir has suffered on all fronts. PDP is going to contest upcoming Lok Sabah elections to take peoples’ struggle to the Parliament so that Kashmir issue could be resolved once for all,” said PDP chief spokesman Naeem Akhtar, adding that for the Kashmir settlement, they need positive response from all political parties including regional and national ones. President Awami Ittihaad Party (AIP) stated that Modi must come forward with the concrete roadmap about his policy for the Kashmir resolution-if any. “The disputed territory of Kashmir- both the divided lines must be resolved- If BJP claims the same- let it come forward with the concrete policy,” said Engineer Rashid, adding that those eulogizing Vajpayee must inform people what Vajpayee did for Kashmir. “He kept on stating that we look towards Kashmir with Human perspective- it is all the gamble of the words. In actual people still got killed, tortured and humiliated at that time- those praising Vajpayee may have their own vested interests.” (KNS)
BOPEE charge sheet against 19 accused in CET—2012 paper leak scam. This charge sheet against 19 accused included six students and nine parents of students who allegedly benefited out of the paper leak scam in 2012. The 19 accused against whom the supplementary charge sheet was filed also included Mushtaq Ahmad Baqaal, alias Pir the former Chairman BOPEE, Sajad Ahmad and Haroon. The Crime Branch later filed a supplementary charge sheet against three more students in a juvenile court here. On February 22, the anti corruption court here had rejected bail applications of all the accused including Mushtaq Pir, former chairman BOPEE sofar arrested in the matter. On February 17, in compliance to the high court directions, the BOPEE cancelled admissions of 12 students who had allegedly purchased papers prior to the conduct of CET in 2012. The admissions of the 12 beneficiary students were cancelled as their names surface in the Crime Branch list of students who secured admissions in government medical college here after purchasing the CET question papers two years ago. Six of them are presently lodged in Central Jail here while fresh arrest warrants have been issued against three others—two of them girls—by the Court. The three remaining beneficiaries are minors (below 18-years of age) and they have been lodged in juvenile home, sources in crime branch had said. The High Court had earlier censured BOPEE for its ‘snail pace’ shown in prerequisite legal formalities for cancellation of admissions of tainted candidates. The court had said that nobody would be allowed to reap fruits of CET-2012paper leak scam. Since the high court is
Zabarwan Times scheduled to hear the matter on Tuesday, the BOPEE filed its status report informing the court about cancellation of admissions. (KNS)
Mufti He said that PDP has earned credibility of all sections of the society through its convictions and commitments.According to a statement issued to KNS, while addressing a function organised by Jagjeet Singh Jagga at Trikuta Nagar area, Mufti said that PDP was the first party which addressed aspirations and wishes of all sections of the society. He told the gathering that Trilok Singh Bajwa was nominated as Rajya Sabha member and Manjeet Singh was made minister in the PDP-Congress coalition government for six long years. He said that PDP has formulated its policy and programmes by accommodating wishes and aspirations of all sections of the society. Lambasting a blistering attack on National Conference-Congress government, Mufti said that as far as the performance of this alliance is concerned, it appears only on papers and nothing concrete visible on ground. “For the last five and half years functioning of this dispensation is appearing only on papers and at grassroots level not even a single promise has been so far implemented”, he said and reminded the gathering that during campaign of the assembly elections, National Conference had made a number of promises with the people but these promises are yet not translated into reality. Highlighted achievements of PDP coalition in the State, he said that it was only during his three year regime equal treatment was given to all regions and sub-regions of the State. “Before formation of PDP led regime in 2002, there were complaints of discrimination and step motherly treatments”, he recalled and hastened to add, “our regime not only removed these discrimination but also empowered Jammu region”. Reiterating resolve of his party to pursue the pro-peace agenda, he said that PDP has pioneered a reconciliatory policy and peace process which was endorsed by the successive regimes at New Delhi and Islambad. "PDP has shown in the past that it can facilitate the resolution process with prudence, and it is ready to shoulder the responsibility of taking the process to its logical conclusion," Mufti said. He reminded the people that by facilitating the peace and reconciliation process in the region PDP had proved that its policies and programmes were guided by the wishes and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “In 2002 we had only 16 members but still we had pursued the peace process and established peace in this region. It was due to the efforts of the PDP that peace was restored in the sub-continent”, he said. Trilok Singh Bajwa, Jagjit Singh Jagga, Amrik Singh Reen, Surjeet Kour, Advocate Surinder Singh, Deepinder Kour, Narinder Singh Raina, H S Sodhi, Sandeep Singh, Varinder Singh Sonu, Gurdeev Singh, Jagjit Singh Jagga (Lubana biradari), Kulwant Singh, Rita Arora, Champa and others also spoke on the occasion. (KNS)
Omar This election is unlike all elections in the past as we are face-to-face with a figure who aims to polarize the people of this country on communal lines – an evil design that needs to be thwarted without any compromise. Dr. Farooq added that this was not the time to bicker or argue amongst ourselves, but a time of reckoning for all secular forces in the country to rise up to the occasion and come together to defeat Modi. Terming PDP a creation of BJP to divide the representation of the people of J&K, Dr. Farooq Abdullah asked the workers to defeat the BJP and PDP nexus to ensure that J&K continues to resiliently grow with equity and dignity for one and all. Speaking at the workers’ meeting, NC Working President and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the State had witnessed unprecedented governance in the last five years of the NC-Congress coalition government. Omar Abdullah said that National Conference workers form the back-bone of the party and the party’s history is a testimony of secularism, pro-people struggles and public service. Terming the upcoming Parliamentary Elections as the first test of strength and dedication this year, Omar Abdullah asked his colleagues and workers to take the achievements of the governance to the people and expose the hollow rhetoric of the detractors of this State’s unity and our identity. Stating that he is dedicated to serving the State for years and decades to come, Omar Abdullah said that he was committed to continue to transform this State towards equitable development and transparent governance. Omar Abdullah termed the upcoming elections as a collective decision that the people have to make between communal, divisive forces and the secular ethos and identity of this State. PDP has tactically fielded candidates in the Jammu Province from certain areas with an eye to divide local votes in particular areas of these constituencies to directly benefit the Narendra Modi led BJP in the upcoming polls. There is a clear choice that the people have to make in casting their votes. All votes that will be cast against National Conference would invariably be votes in favour of Narendra Modi and the people of this State are wise enough to understand the importance of stopping the bandwagon of communalism and opportunism to take roots in our State. The people of this State will play a frontal role in stopping Narendra Modi from wreaking havoc with the secular and egalitarian fabric of not only this State but the entire country. Omar asked his senior colleagues and workers to leave no stone unturned to ensure a resounding victory for the candidates put forth by the party so that they could continue to be strong, resolute voices of the people of J&K in the Parliament. The workers’ meeting was also addressed by Senior NC Leader and Cabinet Minister, Abdul Rahim Rather, MLA Budgam Aga Syed Ruhullah, NC Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani and MLC and District President Budgam Ali Mohammad Dar. Those present on the occasion included NC Spokesman Junaid Mattu, NC Provincial Secretary Showkat Ahmed Mir, leaders of the party’s youth wing, representatives of
the Women’s Wing and student leaders of the National Conference Students Union. (KNS)
JeI of Jamat-e-Islami (JeI) Ameer Jamaat stated that his organization is too busy in other party works that it could not launch a door to door campaign against polls here. Wani while talking to KNS, stated that his organization has right from day one believes that Kashmir is a dispute and needs to be resolved through the implementation of UN resolutions. However, if UN resolutions are not implemented, the dispute could be resolved through tri-partite dialogue, Wani added. He stated that for JeI door to door campaign against the forthcoming polls is not possible due to the dearth of manpower and time being faced by it. “We have distanced ourselves from the polls and hence are asking people to boycott the same.” Without naming any pro-freedom party, Wani the chief of religious, socio, political organization said that some groups in valley have made election boycott a one point agenda but JeI has other priorities as well. Wani reiterated that JeI distanced itself from polls after the massive rigging in elections during 1987. “When we were the part of Huriyat Conference- our stand was the same as we have today- we have boycotted the polls and also urge people to follow our call.” (KNS)
Mir specific to certain major political parties in the state. Regarding the Third Front (Awami Mutahida Mahaz) which is still undecided to field its candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabah elections in the state, Mir said: “I have said that in Jammu and Kashmir there is a grey area and there are so many people who are yet to get involved in election processing. So there is a scope for Third Front but that has not emerged sofar. So talking of a thing which is not in existence anywhere, I don’t think it is time to talk on that.” Asked about his comments on the efforts put in by CPI (M) State Secretary Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami and President Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) Hakim Mohammad Yasin for the formation of Awami Mutahida Mahaz, Mir said: “Tarigami sahib and Yasin sahib are my colleagues and they have an influence in the electorate but the Third Front which I mean is a different concept.” However, Mir did not elaborate his concept of a Third Front in Jammu and Kashmir. Asked about the stand taken by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on creation of new administrative units in the state which is being used as a main poll plank by the Congress and its coalition partner National Conference, Mir said: “Everything starts with papers only. It takes time to be on ground. The government has already started creation of posts for these new administrative units. You will find that will be reality on an appropriate time.” Mir said that it is not the question of having approval of Planning Commission of India for the new administrative units but creation of new administrative units is the state subject and the government is empowered to take such decisions. Asked that if the government is so serious to take governance to the doorsteps of the people why it delayed elections for the remaining two tiers of the Panchayati system, the minister for agriculture said: “There was a major difference between two major parties Congress and National Conference on Panchayat elections vis-à-vis the constitution and other things and now the new law has been created wherein the aspirations of both the parties have been met. So once the law comes into being thereafter the election process will start in block and district levels.” When asked if he could feel any change in the security situation in last five years, Mir said: “I definitely see that. There are no two opinions that at times militants sneak in the valley. There is no denying the fact that at times militant attacks do take place but normalcy is also there. Both these things go side by side and the normal business is continuing and elections are taking place. Everything is working bad things also work.” Regarding his own department and its role in preventing conversion of agriculture land in the state, Mir said that his mandate is only to look after agriculture production and not to stop conversion of agriculture land. “Our mandate is only the agriculture production and management of land is in the domain of revenue department. Agriculture department has not maintained any record of agriculture land conversion nor do we have any rules for that.” He said that a cabinet sub committee was formed by the government which proposed a law to make the conversion a bit difficult. “But the modalities of that law are still with the cabinet subcommittee and it could not see the light of the day, so the problem is there.” (KNS)
Missing and his father and relatives are with him,” Delhi police official said adding that investigation is going on in this regard and so far no one has been arrested. “I am happy to find my son. He told us that he was given anesthesia by some unidentified persons while going to bathroom in Azadpora Mandi. He told us that the Rs 300 which he was possessing was snatched by abductors. My son told us that the abductors travelled a long distance and during this time, he was repeatedly been given anesthesia,” the father of missing boy told CNS adding that it seems that his son was abducted an agency which force children to do beggary. “I thank the people of Kashmir especially the Kashmir press for highlighting the issue of my missing son from time to time,” Muhammad Amin Ganaie said adding that after completing all the formalities, they will reach home in coming three days. Pertinently, 15 year old Roman Amin Ganai of Jandwaal in Pulwama went missing on November 20 from Mahindra Park area in Azadpora New Delhi. Roman was accompanying his father, who had gone there to sell fruits. (CNS)
LS polls: Woman contestant in Kashmir after two decades Srinagar, March 26: After a gap of two decades, a woman is set to contest parliamentary elections in Jammu and Kashmir as an independent candidate. Nirupama Kaul alias Rabia Baji, who runs a non-governmental group in Kashmir, Thursday announced that she will contest the election from Srinagar slated in the months of April and May. Begam Abdullah, chief minister’s Omar Abdullah’s grandmother, had successfully contested the parliamentary elections from Srinagar in 1984. Rabia, who was in the news after 65 Kashmir students were expelled from a university in India’s Meerut, during a press conference at her Raj Bagh office said: I will contest the election as an independent candidate. Rabia, who runs the All India Centre for Urban and Rural Development (AICURD, J&K), will be the first woman from the state to fight the parliamentary elections after nearly two decades. According to GNS, Rabia, said ‘she will not contest as a leader’, but, ‘as a representative of a common Kashmir people whose voice are unheard in the Indian Parliament’. She is set to announce her manifesto within coming days ‘after proper consultation with various cross sections of society’. “I am not contesting against anyone but am contesting for the voice of youth and suppressed women who do not get their choice of representation and relief for their suffering and needs,” she said. Rabia said youth are the pillar and the backbone of the society. “If the youth is strong, the society is strong, same
for the women, who are the foundation stone of a family. If women are economically, socially and physically strong, then the society also becomes strong,” she said. The students expelled from the SVSU University were sent to study there on Prime Minister’s scholarship scheme through Rabia’s group. While commenting on the sedition charges leveled on Kashmir students, she said their suspension order has not been revoked. “I had called a meeting of the parents of suspended students. Some of them are concerned for the safety of their wards and want a migration from the varsity and some want to rejoin their studies at the university,” she said. Rabia said those who are issuing statements in connection with the ousting of these students should answer why they turned their heads when asked to assist the students in 2010. “Now, they are issuing statements regarding the issue as part of their election gimmick,” she said. Rabia will be contesting against National Conference (NC) patron and union minister Dr Farooq Abdullah – who is currently Member of Parliament from Srinagar Constituency. Traditionally, Srinagar is NC’s stronghold, and it had swept Assembly elections as well in 2008. The others who are contesting parliament elections this year are Tariq Hamid Qarra of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Aam Aadmi Party’s Raja Muzaffar Bhat, a former PDP worker who had joined the opposition after working as an RTI campaigner. (GNS)
Family accuses police of ‘taking bribe’ for fishing out body Unfortunate allegation; did what was not done in such cases earlier: SSP Srinagar
Srinagar, Mar 26: Family of a girl, who in the recent past jumped into river Jehlum from Amira Kadal Bridge Wednesday accused that police were demanding bribe to trace out her body. Police denied the accusations. A 14-year-old girl on March 19 jumped into river Jehlum to end her life at Amira Kadal Bridge. The girl’s grandfather had alleged that the river police were taking money from the family for fuel of motor boats. SSP Srinagar Amit Kumar while denying the allegations leveled by girl’s family told KNS it is absolutely a baseless allegation. “It is unfortunate that they have leveled such an allegation which is baseless and far from truth. By the way the family now says that some relative (who doesn’t gel well with them) might have done this, not the family. ” He stated that Iqra (name changed), resident of Bara Pather jumped into river Jehlum to commit suicide. Immediately, two police parties from Maisuma and Shaeed Gunj were rushed to the spot for fishing out the deceased. This exercise continued on March 19 intervening night of 19 and 20, 20th, intervening night of 20 & 21. To optimize the police rescue mission, one motor boat from river police too was used continuously.”
Nocturnal raids spark protest in Old City
Srinagar March 26: Arrest spree sparked protest in Old city on Wednesday while police said that all the persons involved in stone pelting would be arrested in coming days. According to CNS, scores of people staged a protest at Nowpora Khanyar area of Srinagar city demanding immediate release of the arrested youth. The protestors said that police arrested three persons during nocturnal raids in Nowpora area. “It is irony that police resort to
nocturnal raids at a time when peace is prevailing in the Old city. There have been no stone-pelting incidents in the area from past many months and the police action has surprised us,” one of the protestors Irshad Ahmed told CNS adding that all the persons arrested by police are innocent. Reports said that police arrested three persons during nocturnal raid who have been identified as Feroz Ahmed, Abdul Majid and Muhammad Maqbool.
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SRINAGAR | THURSDAY, MARCH | 27 | 2014
Governor reviews arrangements for Shri Amarnathji Yatra- 2014 JAMMU, MARCH 26: The thorized to issue Compulsory licize lists of the authorized to registered Yatris, Service which are to be made by the arrangements being made for Health Certificates have been doctors / medical institutes. Providers, ponies, issuance of Divisional Administration Shri Amarnathji Yatra, which uploaded in respect of all the Governor was also briefed permission letters to Langar (Kashmir); District Adminisis scheduled to begin on 28th States/UTs except Lakshad- about to-date position with organization to set up free trations of Ganderbal and AnJune, 2014 and conclude on weep, Arunachal Pradesh, As- regard to heli- services for the Langars in the Yatra area, pro- antnag districts; CEO, Pahal10th August, 2014 were re- sam, Jharkhand, Meghalaya Yatris, issuance of permissions vision of telecom facility in the gam Development Authority; viewed here today by Shri CEO, Sonamarg Development N.N. Vohra, Governor of Authority; and the various J&K, who is also the Chairother concerned departments man of Shri Amarnathji including Tourism, PHE, PDD, Shrine Board. Shri Navin K. CAPD, Health, Labour and AnChoudhary, Chief Execuimal Husbandry. tive Officer, SASB; Shri Preet Shri Choudhary briefed the Pal Singh, Additional CEO; Chairman about the to-date Shri R.K. Pandita, General position of the action taken Manager (Works) and othto implement the directions er senior officers attended passed by Supreme Court rethe meeting at Raj Bhavan, garding various arrangements Jammu.The Governor was to be made for the ensuing briefed about the status of Shri Amarnathji Yatra. The Advance Registration which Governor asked the CEO to is being done by the desigimmediately take up all imKhan News Agency nated branches ofLone J&K News Bank,Agency and Kangan Sikkim. In this context, for the settingGanderbal up of tents and Yatra area, dissemination of portant pending matters with Gulzar Soura Zahid shops, Book Depot Chadoora Punjab National Bank andNews YES Agency Hon’ble Governor asked CEO and about the finaliza- Yatra related information etc. Chief Secretary and Home Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Bank all over the country. The to issue immediate reminders tion of various contracts reThe review meeting Secretary, J&K, for ensuring Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Lal Chowk of chaired by the Governor also timely implementation of the CEO informed that, for the to the Health Secretaries of the lating toAgency the maintenance Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency LalYatra Chowk convenience of the Yatris, the aforesaid States/UTs, and once sanitation in the area, discussed the todate status of directions issued by the Apex Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan list of doctors/hospitals au- again request them to pub- provision of insurance covers all Yatra related arrangements Court. 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 Dar News Agency Bashir News Agency Sumbal MANSAR, MARCH 26-As part ofBeerwah promotion of art Reshi News All Agency Saleem News Agency Pattan in Jammu & Kashmir, a five-day IndiaSafapora Painting Camp Basharat of News Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore was started by J&K Academy Art, Agency Culture & Languages Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund at this scenic spot today. JAMMU, MARCH 26:- Divi- vision. He asked the concerned sioner about the status of esThe camp is to commemorate the 150th birth anniJeelani News Agency Baramulla G.M News Agency Sopore sional Commissioner Jammu, authorities to fix rates in a such sential infrastructure created in versary of Swami Vivekananda, a great philosopher Shah News Agency Kupwara and Sultan News Agency Handwaraa a way which may be practical their respective districts which Shantmanu today convened educationist. A day-long seminar was also held by the Younis News Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad meeting of Deputy Commis- and easy for use besides evad- was mainly related to transporAcademy at Jammu on the life and works of Swamiji. Reshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agency Tral to ing the quantum of stamp duty tation, electricity, water supsioners of Jammu Division During the camp,Turray artistsNews coming from Tral different parts Agency Badru News Agency Bijbehara discuss preparation and revi- losses. He said that rate escala- ply, telecommunication service, of the country including will engage themselves in Rahi J&K News Agency Kulgam Malik Agency sion of News stamp duty Arwani rates for tion every year indicate that real availability of EVMs and other creative activity besides interacting with each theShaheen year 2014-15.The estate value increases manifold election related material, deRah News Agency Byepass other on News Agency meeting Kargil
Zabarwan Times is available at
All India Painting Camp at Mansar takes off
the nuances of the art of painting. They will confine their work to the teachings and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.The camp is held on the banks of the famous Mansar lake giving a perfect setting for the artists to let loose their creative abilities. The participants include N D Jamwal, Vijay Anand, Bhuvnesh Raina, K. S. Gill, Anand Sharma, Baldev Gambhir, Altaf Ahmad Khan and Tasaduq Hussain.At the inaugural function, Secretary Academy, Khalid Bashir Ahmad, was present and spoke of the importance of the All India Painting camps for the promotion of fine art in the State. He said it has been a tradition with the Academy to hold such events in a bid to promote art in Jammu & Kashmir and allow artists to share a platform and engage in creative activities.
Div Com reviews election preparations, revision of stamp duty rates
was attended by Deputy Commissioners of Jammu, Ramban, Doda, Samba, Rajouri, Kishtwar, besides Assistant Commissioner Commercial Taxes, Director Land Record, ACR, Kathua, Chief Town Planner, Conservator of Forests, SE, PWD and other concerned officers.During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner sought details of progress made so far for fixation of amended stamp duty rates for the year 2014-15 under the pro-
and the stamp duty rates should be fixed/revised accordingly. The Divisional Commissioner emphasized the need to chalk out effective strategies to overcome the stamp duty losses. In a separate meeting with the Deputy Commissioners, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed the arrangements for the upcoming parliamentary elections in their respective districts.Deputy Commissioners briefed the Divisional Commis-
ployment of security forces etc for ensuring free and fair elections.The Divisional Commissioner asked them to make all necessary arrangements well in time with logistic support from all concerned departments for successful conduct of elections strictly as per the guidelines of Election Commission of India. He emphasized the need for strict adherence of Model Code of Conduct by various political parties.
Div Com plants Deodar tree on World Arbor Day SRINAGAR, March 26: In connection with 39th World Arbor Day, a plantation drive was held today by the Forest Department in collaboration with (R&B) Public Works Department as part of avenue plantation for beautification of Srinagar city. On the occasion, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mr. Shailendra Kumar planted a Deodar tree on AthwajanPampore Bye Pass road Srinagar. Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Commissioner said that World Arbor Day is observed on March 21 every year and it offers an opportunity to give something back to Earth from which the mankind extracts the maximum com-
fort. He said plantation is necessary for making environment healthy and pollution free besides it adds the beautification. He said that to commemorate the Day, Forest Department has taken up the ceremonial planting programme in everywhere in the Valley and more plants shall be planted across the Valley.Mr. Shailendra Kumar directed various departments like PWD, Social Forestry etc. to coordinate with the Forest Department for raising quality plants and proper
Awareness cum kissan mela organized JAMMU, MARCH 26-An awareness camp cum kissan mela was organized under the centrally sponsored scheme, support under (ATMA) at ornamental fish farm Doomi. The purpose of the kissan mela was to popularize fish farming and to educate the fish farmers and the public about the various welfare schemes of the department. The mela was attended by a large number of fish farmers and entrepreneurs from the different blocks of the district Jammu like Bishnah, R S Pura, Marh, Bhalwal, Akhnoor and Khour. Chief Project Officer, Fisheries, Regional Fish Farmers Development Agency Ghoumanhasan Jammu who was the chief guest on the occasion while interacting with the participants stressed that the fish farming has lot of opportunities for uplifting the rural economy besides providing high quality protein to the masses and will reduce thegap between the fish supply and demand. He also stressed the unemployed youth to estab-
lish the fish rearing unit as a source of self employment and integrate fish culture with other crops like floriculture, horticulture, poultry, dairy etc. Assistant Director Fisheries Jammu informed that 128 number of fish rearing units in private sector have been established in district Jammu under different schemes and 165 community ponds were stocked with the fish seed free of cost by the department with the active participation of Panchayati Raj Institutions during the year 2013-14 for community use. The units established in the private sector are being provided quality seed and technical know-how by the department and it was informed that 128 units of carp ponds covering a water area of about 14 hectares has been established in the different blocks of Jammu district. The participants were also demonstrated about various techniques about fish culture and were shown different varieties of ornamental fish being reared and bred at fish farm Doomi.
selection of species for long term beautification on road side avenues and highways. District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Shah, Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. Nisar Ahmad Darzi, Chief Engineer PWD Kashmir, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Lone, Conservator of Forests Srinagar Circle, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Geelani, Divisional Forest Officer Urban Forestry Srinagar, Hakim Mukhtar Ahmad also planted Deodar and Conifer trees on the occasion. During the drive Forest Department distributed plants among one hundred school going students at Cheshmashahi to plant at their residence so that greenery may be observed everywhere.
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
Allow your eager and restless nature to express itself in ways other than through the spoken word, Aries. Show someone that you care through your gentle touch or a big bear hug. Hold on a little bit more tightly than you might normally. There’s an unspoken understanding that comes when you communicate through nothing but pure silence. Work on developing this kind of connection with those closest to you.
Taurus April 20-May 20
This is a terrific day for you, Taurus. You should find that your relationships, especially with men, go exceptionally well. Your tender and extremely sensitive nature is finally being recognized as the treasure chest it is. There are many times in which this type of personality is seen as weak, yet today is one of those times in which you’re given the full credit you deserve.
Gemini May 21-June 21
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
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 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
Baramulla to go to polls on May 07, DEO reviews arrangements Dr. Lone for strict compliance of Election Code BARAMULLA, MARCH 26: The notification for elections to BaramullaKupwara parliamentary constituency would be issued on April 12, 2014 and nomination papers would be filed upto April 19. Scrutiny of papers would take place on April 21 and last date of withdrawal of nomination papers would be April 23. Elections would be held on May 07, 2014. This was disclosed here today in a review meeting of Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police, falling under the constituency, held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone, who is also the Returning officer for the Baramulla-Kupwara par-
liamentary constituency. DIG, North, Ghulam Hassan Bhat, Deputy Commissioner, Bandipore, Dr. Shah Faesal, Deputy Commissioner, Kupwara, Itrat Hussain Rafiqui, Superintendents of Police and other senior officers were present in the meeting. The meeting reviewed in detail the dispatch and delivery of poll material to polling stations, enforcement of model code of conduct and its compliance by political parties and contesting candidates and ensuring a free and fair election in the constituency. The Deputy Commissioner impressed upon the officers to ensure strict compliance of Model Code of Conduct and strict observance of expenditure restrictions by the contesting parties and candidates. Dr. Lone asked the officers to instill a sense of security and peace
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 OPINION Value the vote Kejriwal Small man big designs and fulfill the The resignation of of Arvind Kejriaspirations voters wal and his forty eight days stint
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consisting in of which ithhigh thedrama arrival Nahe claimed to climb the sky withrinder Modi in Jammu out stairs has exposed the over the electioneering has ambitiousness of a middle rung picked up and election rallies, former Govt. officer wanted meetings and roadwho shows are to erode even the constitution of being held in every nook and India to fulfil political expancorner of thehisstate which has sionism. From the very begin-a six Lok Sabha seats. Though ning it looked clearathat sensitive statecrystal with still lots Kejriwal without much political of militancy infested areas, the knowhow wanted to conquer overall campaigning has the by Mount Everest even without and large been satisfactoryvenand turing of some his home. day better out than otherHis states. dreaming, hisphase unfulfilled promisIn the first Jammu pares to the people of Delhi, his misliamentary constituency will calculations aspirations got to pollsand which will bewith folwhich he tried to befool the peolowed by Udhampur and then ple vanished in air.diviHis thesuddenly four seats of Kashmir promise supply free water sion. Sotofar the the campaigning up to 900 litres to every home, has been peaceful and the parelectricity supply on half of the ticipation of the people in elecrate Jan Lokpal bill were all tionand related functions is overflues. Above The all his style ofoffuncwhelming. people this tioning like an anarchist the state particularly fromand Kashway approached to deal come with mir he valley have always different issuesnumbers was nothing but out in large to cast immature senseless directheir votes, though and the conditionless. Infact he was trying tions where never conducive to create a kind of anarchy and and peaceful. Even they defied constitutional crisis which could the poll boycott calls. But dedestroy the very basis of the demspite all this they have always ocratic set-up. Hisin blunt lies,field his been neglected every allegations against everybody of life and are deprived of even including the high dignitaries rethe basic civic facilities by the portedly without basis clearpoliticians who any get elected and ly show that he has no priority forget the people. These poliand targets except to derive maxticians never realized that the imum mileage out of minimum. people braving all odds elected As perand constitution he them assignedexperts them the thinks that he can overrule the responsibilities of taking this constitution to his state aheadaccording on the path ofwill deand whims and he thinks himself velopment. They only are seen to be theelection only honest manand in the during times do county. His behaviour and the atnothing except false promises tempts heclaims made totodisrespect and tall perform.the In constitution of India and also to fact these politicians should erode the laidthat principles law understand in thisofstate where simply unbearable as no they have more responsibilisociety in theof world can tolerate ties because its geographical such attempts. As he could not situation and political volatilifulfil his promises, a ty, hence there is he no wanted room for way eject, which he got through taking the things lightly and his Jan Lokpal This Bill whose conirresponsibly. time there troversial in Delhi are someintroduction political stalwarts Assembly wasand unconstitutional in the fray one expects as any Bill in the list concan that whosoever central wins the be introduced passed but not fidence of theand people, performs before the permission of and Ministry in a more responsible dediof Home Affairs is sort. As he was cated way and tries to mitigate acting in an anchorist and dictathe problems of the people who torial he thought he iscounts above have style, suffered on all law and can he likes. because of do theanything instability preThe Indian democracy is the largvailing since last over six deest in the henceimperative deep rootcades. It world becomes ed. Arvind Kejriwal did not avail to take this state out of these the opportunity got to conditions and he make theprove peohis metal. He thought by quitting ple to feel that their vote is not he will gain sympathies of the wasted andthe their confidence is people of India but forgot that he not lowered. For this purpose has in the himthere are process some exposed main issues self before the masses and is on in which should be tackled danger of losing whatever he had priority besides the settlement achieved so far. It is very easy to of political problems these repsit on ‘Dharnas’ should and criticize othresentatives present ers but it is not so easy to transdevelopment, unemployment, late one’s whims unless road communication one andgoes the through the established system industrial problems which can of norms and is this honest in the aphelp in taking state ahead. proach.
Daily Daily
Zabarwan ZabarwanTimes Times
Srinagar, Thursday 27 March 2014 Srinagar,Sunday 16 February 2014
Prevention of Drug Addiction Awareness Generation, Research and Rehabilitation
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lcoholism and drug abuse is a pysco-social-medical problem requiring a holistic approach – from prevention and early detection to effective intervention, rehabilitation and social integration. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is the nodal Ministry for drug demand reduction. It coordinates and monitors all aspects of drug abuse prevention which include assessment of the extent of the problem, preventive action, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts, dissemination of information and public education. The Ministry provides community-based services for the identification, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts through voluntary organizations. In order to recognize the efforts, and, encourage excellence in the Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drugs) Abuse and rehabilitation of its victims, awards will be presented, every year, for the most effective or outstanding services as individuals as well as institutions in the prevention of abuse of:(a) Alcohol; (b) Narcotic Drugs; (c) Psychotropic Substances; (d) Other Addictive Substances (Except tobacco and its products) e.g. cough syrups, correction fluid,
etc. The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has been implementing the Scheme of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse since 1985-86. The Scheme, which was revised twice in 1994 and 1999, at present provides financial support to NGOs and employers mainly for creating Awareness and Preventive Education, Drug Awareness and CounsellingCentres (CCs), Treatment- Cum- Rehabilitation Centres (TC), Workplace Prevention Programme (WPP), De-addiction Camps (ACDC), NGO forum for Drug Abuse Prevention Innovative Interventions etc. Apart from this, the Ministry takes up awareness generation programme every year disseminating information, education and communication (IEC) materials, organizing programmes in schools and community, holding exhibitions and publishing newsletters and journals. At present there are about 41 CCs and 401 TCs are functioning with the support of the ministry in the country. Besides, a large number of NGO’s are involved in this endeavour, Ministry of social Justice and Em-
powerment notified in December last year a scheme of National Awards for Outstanding Services in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse, in order to recognize the efforts and encourage excellence in the field of prevention of substance abuse and rehabilitation of its victims. The Scheme is applicable to institutions and individuals working in this field. Under the scheme, awards will be presented every year to the most effective or outstanding services rendered as individuals as well as institutions in the prevention of abuse of alcohol; narcotic drugs; psychotropic substances and other addictive substances. The awards are presented every year, on the 26th June, which has been declared by the United Nations as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking and are given in ten different categories to institutions and individuals. I. Institutional Category (i) Best Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA) for providing rehabilitation services to alcoholics and drug users (ii) Best Regional Resource and Training Centre (RRTC) provid-
ing exemplary contribution in the field of prevention of addiction. (iii) Best Panchayati Raj or Municipal Body working for prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse. (iv) Best Educational Institution doing outstanding work in awareness generation and prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse. (v) Best Non-Profit Institution, other than Serial Number (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above, with outstanding contribution in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse. (vi) Best Research or Innovation. (vii) Best Awareness Campaign. II. Individual Category (viii) Outstanding individual achievement by a professional. (ix) Outstanding individual achievement by a non- professional. (x) Former Addict, who has done outstanding work in the field of awareness generation or de-addiction or rehabilitation. The institution of these National Awards is indeed a manifestation of Government’s commitment to address the issues and take effective steps against alcohol and drug abuse.
Building not just Roads but Nation
ransport system is considered as the life line of any nation. Road Infrastructure, because of its easy accessibility, flexibility in operation, door to door service and reliability occupies a dominant position in the transportation system. It is vital for unleashing economic growth and is a critical component of all inclusive growth. In the last few decades, Road transport in India has registered tremendous growth and has become the most preferred mode of transport. The share of road transport in carrying the passengers and goods is more than 80% and 60% of the total passenger and freight movement respectively. Road Network India has huge network of roads totalling about 46.90 lakh km. The road density in India at present is nearly 1.43 km per sq. km of area which compares favourably with many countries. Responsibility of development of this network rests with the Central Government, State Governments and local Government. National Highways (NH), having total length of 82,803 km, constitutes less than 2% of the total road network. However, these are the main arteries carrying more than 40% of the total road traffic. Development of NHs is the responsibility of the Central Government. Good and efficient transport infrastructure is an essential pre-requisite for the economic growth of a nation. It has been the endeavor of the Government to provide speedy, safe and efficient road transport network. It is recognized that modernisation of infrastructure is the key to attain higher GDP. India’s Transport sector as a whole contributes about 5.5% to the GDP, with road transport contributing the lion’s share. India has emerged as one of the fastest growing economy in the world. According to experts, India could unleash its full potential, provided, it improves the infrastructure facilities, which are at present not sufficient to meet the growing demand of the economy. To address emerging demand by catching up with the economic and social growth of the country, a massive Road development programme has been
taken up in the country. NHDP The National Highways Development Project (NHDP) is the flagship programme, for development of less developed areas, dedicated regional programmes like the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for the North-East (SARDP-NE) and the Special Programme for the Left Wing Extremism affected areas have also been taken up. Now, there are plans for building up Expressways in the Country. Three projects i.e. Eastern Peripheral Expressway in National Capital Region, Delhi - Meerut Expressway and Mumbai – Vadodra Expressway covering about 650 km are targeted during the current financial year. Planning for Bengaluru – Chennai and Delhi – Jaipur Expressways are also in advance stages. All these Expressways will be fully access controlled roads on green field alignment. To meet with the massive requirement of funds, innovative means of financing and financing strategies which inter alia include cess on fuel, private sector participation including foreign investment, borrowing from the market as well as budgetary support have been adopted. A major step was to attract foreign as well as domestic investments through Public Private Partnership (PPP). Involving the private sector would lead to increasing efficiency with the help of using modern technology. The private sector has more flexible procurement and decision-making procedures and therefore, it can speed up implementation efforts. Allowing private sector to raise capital/funds has paved the way for the Government to use its scarce resources efficiently and effectively. Several new materials of road construction are also emerging that would need to be encouraged depending upon their cost effectiveness. For development of National Highways in the Country in the 12 five year plan targets to invest Rs 1,44,769 crores from budgetary support, Rs 64,834 crores from IEBR and Rs 1,87,995 crores from private sector participation. Launched in 1998, the NHDP
program represents the largest road construction project ever undertaken to boost the development of the National Highways in the country. The program is aimed at the development of about 50,000 km of National Highways. Golden Quadrilateral which provides four-lane connectivity between four metros, is complete, while the North-SouthEast-West (NSEW) corridor is about to be completed. Four laning and six laning is underway at many places and progressing at brisk pace, despite the hurdles in land acquisition, obtaining environment and forest clearances, high cost debt etc,. So far work on more than 21,000 km have been completed and in about 12,350 km works are in progress. Other flagship regional programmes which includes SARDP-NE and roads in LWE affected areas covers development of about 12,000 km of roads out of which work has already been completed in about 3800 kms. Mode of Projects The emphasis has been to take up progressively more and more infrastructure projects through private sector participation on BOT (Toll) basis so that more public funds are available for social sectors such as Health, Education, etc. However, it would not be practically possible to take up development of the majority of the highway stretches on BOT (Toll) mode. This has reflected in the recent trends of bidding when in majority of roads projects we could not get the favourable response. Accordingly, recently, Ministry has decided to take up road projects as turnkey Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) contracts basis which would help to reduce construction time and is expected to improve quality of work as well. Also, in this system the objective to garner private sector efficiency is retained and the private entrepreneurs are free to use new technology to speed up their works New Initiatives E-Tolling The experience on present tolling system is associated with congestion and delays at toll plazas. To overcome this, Government has decided adoption of Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system across Na-
tional Highways in India, which would enable toll to be collected electronically from vehicles at toll plazas while the vehicle is in motion. Pilot projects have already been taken up in this regard which will pave way for nation-wide interoperable ETC at all the toll plazas on National Highways by 2014. New Materials Besides financing, such a mammoth development programme requires huge amount of natural resources. As such conservation of the material is area of concern for all. There is a need to save scarce physical resource like aggregates, sand, earth, cement, bitumen, etc. looking to huge programme of construction of highways in the country. On the other hand, the Nation is facing problem of the disposal & storage of industrial waste like fly-ash, copper slag, marble slurry, etc. Efforts are on in utilizing these waste materials in construction of roads through complete/partial replacement of conventional materials. Cashless Treatment of accident Victims (A Road Safety initiative) India has the dubious distinction of having maximum number of fatalities on roads. During the year 2011, there were around 5 lakh road accidents resulting in the deaths of over 1.42 lakh people. Each day, nearly 390 people die on our roads. In India more than half of road accident victims are in the age group 20-65 years. The loss of the main bread earner and head of household due to death or disability can be catastrophic, leading to lower living standards and poverty, in addition to the human cost of bereavement. This is an unacceptable price to pay for mobility. The Ministry has already taken up multi-pronged strategy in his regard. The latest milestone in this area is a Pilot Project for “implementation of cashless medical treatment to the accident victims” for the first 48 hours. Under this scheme accident victims will be provided free treatment during this period as a result immediate relief can be provided to the accident victim, which will go a long way in reducing fatalities on our road. Completion of programmes already taken up is expected to go a long way in contributing towards building the Nation.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer