C M Y K
THURSDAY 29 May | 2014 | 29 Rajab, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
Pen
http://www.zabarwantimes.com
Misbah Celebrates 40th birthday
For
Jus
tice
Srinagar, May 28: The unknown persons in south Kashmir’s Shopian have stolen 1300 filled and unfilled gas cylinders along with three trucks, sources told GNS on Wednesday. Sources told GNS that three trucks (JKO1C – 4625, JK03A – 4482, JK03C – 3077 ) were parked in the premises of Mir Gas Agency at Sheemal Shopian were loaded with 1300 cylinders out of which 460 were filled, while 840 were unfilled. “However, some unknown persons stole all the cylinders along with three trucks,” sources said, adding the Gas Agency belongs to Lateef Mir, resident of Rajpora Pulwama. Meanwhile, police have registered a case in this regard in Shopian police station and have started searches. See Shopian On PG 11..
Srinagar police arrests 5 profiteers Srinagar, May 28: South City police launched a drive against profiteers and arrested five shopkeepers in Batamaloo and Saheed Gunj area. Shaheed Gunj and police station Batamaloo police were receiving constant complaints regarding some shopkeepers indulging in profiteering. Police launched a drive and arrested five shopkeepers under section 3/7 Essential Commodities Act which includes two butchers, two vegetable sellers and one baker for selling merchandise at exorbitant prices to the commoners. (KNS)
Inside story Army public school Srinagar excels again in CBSE results
Srinagar, May 28 : The Army Public School, Srinagar, continued its excellent performance with recording a 100% PASS Results for the third year in a row. According to an amry statement issued to KNS, the Central Board of Secondary Education declared the Class XII Results of the Northern Zone for the Academic Year 2013-14, today on 28 May 2014 at about 1100 hours. This year, for the first time in its history, two of its students scored over 90% marks,
See More On Pg 11
On Edit Page Article 370 - a bridge between state and centre The controversy started by Dr. Jitender Singh, MoS in Modi cabinet has evoked strong and wide spread criticism from even the mainstream parties. Stating that process of abrogation of Article370 of the constitution of India is underway, the minister has indicated the intentions of BJP led Govt. which in no way will be acceptable to the people of J&K. His assertions that BJP is in continuous talks with stakeholders and as BJP has won half of the seats from J&K, hence, it is an endorsement of BJP stand cannot find any takers.
See More On Pg 09
WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS: Light Rain would occur at a few places over the state.
FORECAST OF SRINAGAR: Partly cloudy sky. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 21°C & 10°C respectively.
C TEMPERATURE M MAXIMUM Y MINIMUM K
SUNSET ON(THURSDAY) SUNRISE ON (FRIDAY)
26.90C 9.2 0C 07:35PM 05:23 AM
NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 148 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
Forces conduct searches in north Kashmir forest
PG 06
1300 gas cylinders, 3 trucks stolen in Shopian
VOL
C M Y K
Doransky crashes out of French Open PG 06
PG 11
Wide spread criticism of BJP’s stand on Article 370
>>>>> Mainstream leaders take strong exception to reported efforts to repeal the article >>>>> Omar, Mehbooba, Azad, Khalida criticize Jatinder Srinagar, May 28: Jammu & Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday asked the central government to come clean on who are the “stakeholders” it was talking about on the contentious issue of revocation of Article 370 of the Constitution. His comments came a day after minister of state in the PMO Jitendra Singh stirred up a controversy by declaring the new government has started the process for repealing Article 370, which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir within the Indian republic. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Abdullah said: “We will oppose the move tooth and nail. Since it is the minister of state PMO talking and hence it is a policy matter. They (central government) must come clean and share who are the stakeholders they have talked to.” The chief minister said the move to re-open the issue of Article 370 would amount to re-opening the issue of the state’s accession with the union. Opposition Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti Wednesday threw ball in BJP’s court asking it to remain prepared to give choice to Kashmiri people to renegotiate its relation with the country if it wants to abrogate Article 370. “Our position is that the state’s special status cannot be touched and if you do so then are you prepared to ask the people of Kashmir what they want. You are giving the people a choice and a chance of the same,” said Mehbooba while holding press conference at her Srinagar residence. Mehbooba remarked further that Kashmir
BJP should make abrogation of Article 370 agenda in assembly election: Chaman Lal Gupta
is the only part of the world where forces are present in such a huge number and that BJP should try to strengthen state’s special status rather than stressing for its erosion. “Even in the past, several leaders and intellectuals made it clear that Article 370 cannot be even touched as it is the base of Kashmir’s relation with India. We believe that if Article 370 is eroded then you are giving people a choice, a chance where you could ask them what they want. Are you prepared to do that?” Mehbooba added that if state’s special status is fiddled with, its impact will be disastrous and dangerous. “We want more administrative powers, more share in civil services, the amount of our water resources be compensated and state should have an elected Governor. I hope Prime Minister will intervene and reassure people here that no power on earth can fiddle with the dignity and honor of Jammu and Kashmir.” Taking string exception to the remarks made by Dr Jatinder Singh on Article 370, senior Congress leader and former union health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on Wednesday
No U-Vani service from Radio Kashmir from June 1 We have started alternative programs: Dir RK Srinagar, May 28: The U-Vani service of Radio Kashmir will not be aired from June 1, this year as the order issued by Director All India Radio intimated Director Radio Kashmir to stop its transmission by the beginning of next month. U-Vani service of Radio Kashmir, Srinagar that is being transmitted on short wave particularly targets youth community and highlights its issues and problems. The new order issued by the All India Radio has made the budding writers and Radio artists perturbed, accusing they have been left jobless by the authorities. According to the reports received by KNS, after the order of stopping U-Vani was issued, major reshuffle in the administration within Radio Kashmir has started with most of the senior producers being transferred from one section to other.
Director Radio Kashmir Dr Rukhsana Jabeen when contacted confirmed the reports, stating that RK didn’t argued much about it but asked for the alternatives from All India Radio so that youth related programs would continue to get broadcasted. “We asked for the extension in the transmission from 6 p.m to 10.30 pm but only two hours were approved, one in morning and one in evening. Later we asked for two hours in the evening and the same has been approved.” She stated that now the youth related programs shall be broadcasted daily on FM 103.5 from 6 p.m to 7 p.m. 7-8 will be the primary relay including Sheharbeen and news and from 8 p.m to 9 p.m, the youth related programs shall be broadcasted. Over the grievances of youth writers and See U-Vani On PG 11..
Won’t approach Union Government for security: Panchayat body Srinagar, May 28: Panchayat body on Wednesday said that Panchayat members won’t approach new government for security as it is responsibility of State government to safeguard them. “We are not looking towards Central Government for our security. It is not their responsibility. It is the responsibility of Jammu and Kashmir Government to safeguard us,” Khursheed Ahmad Malik, the General Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Association (JKPA), told GNS. He said the group has not decided yet to meet the Union Government. “If we meet them, we will take up the issue of empowerment of Panchayat,” he said, adding the State Government so far has done nothing for the empowerment
of Panchayats. The JKPA recently met top three pro-freedom leaders of Kashmir including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Muhammad Yasin Malik after spate of attacks on Panchayat members in parts of Kashmir by unknown gunmen. Barring Yasin Malik, the senior pro-freedom leaders suggested them to resign en-masse. “We have not ruled out resignation neither we have decided not to resign. The process of deliberations is on and we are in touch with stake holders. It would be a big decision and it needs ground work,” Malik said adding: “If we stay, we have to stay with some confidence and if we leave, we will leave honourably.” Pertinently, another Panchayat body See Panchayat On PG 11..
cautioned him and his other cabinet colleagues that any such statements in future will have dire consequences for BJP government. Talking to KNS from Delhi, Azad said: “The statement regarding abrogation of Article 370 made by Dr Jatinder Singh is most irresponsible. Since this is his maiden statement after taking over as a minister in Centre for which he can be forgiven. However, should he or his cabinet colleagues repeat any such statements in future, will have dire consequences which can open a Pandora box.” Azad said that any such statements made in future will have dire consequences for the BJP led government in the centre. “It will be then difficult for the BJP led government to withstand. Therefore the Prime Minister of India should impress upon his colleagues that the parliament elections are now over and they are in governance mode and they should not repeat these statements which they used in Parliament election campaign to misleading people,” the former union health minister added. Reacting strongly to the recent political jar-
Srinagar, May 28: Though other senior leaders at state BJP on Wednesday remained tight over the recent statement of Dr Jitendra Singh over Article- 370, Professor Chaman Lal Gupta stated that BJP must contest the forthcoming assembly elections with the agenda of scarping state’s special status. Gupta told KNS over phone that it is the need of the hour that BJP should go to people for votes with the promise that it will work for scraping of Article 370. “I believe that it should be the policy of the BJp to contest the forthcoming assembly polls in the state with the agenda of scarping Article 370. It is of no use now.” Gupta while backing the statement of Dr Jitendra stated that when Jammu and Kashmir is like the other See BJP On PG 11.. gons about the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution President of Awami National Conference (ANC) Begum Khalida Shah stated that all those leaders who have been talking about the review and abrogation of Article 370 for mere political mileage must remember and read that it happens to be the very basis of J&K’s See Wide On PG 11..
>>>>> Asiya-Neelofar commemoration >>>>>
Reopen all rape, molestation cases since 90: IFJHR to SHRC
Srinagar, May 28 : Taking a dig at successive governments for their failure to provide justice to the victims of rapes and molestations that took place in valley hitherto, the International Forum for Justice and Human Rights -JK (IFJHR-JK) in its statement issued to KNS has urged the State Human Rights Commission to reopen all the cases of rape and molestation committed allegedly by security forces since 1990. “Not only should the selected cases like Kunan Poshpora and Shopian double rape and murder be reopened but the SHRC should reinvestigate all the similar cases that have been put on backburner for more than last two decades,” IFJHR-JK in its statement has said. Chairman of the forum, Muhammad Ahsan Untoo said that not a single force personnel accused of such crime has been brought to justice so far. “Thousands of families of rape and molestation victims, from nineyear-old to 60-year-old, are awaiting
justice. The government has done nothing in this regard and all such cases are either prolonged or have been put on hold.” There have been reports of rape and molestation cases like Badasgam Village where BSF personnel allegedly opened indiscriminate firing upon a marriage party who were travelling in a bus in south Kashmir’s Islamabad district in which a bridegroom and other eight persons received bullet injuries and the bride and her chamber-maid were gang raped by the personnel. The incident happened on the intervening night of May17 and 18, 1990. Another similar case is of south Kashmir’s Chak-e-Saidapora of Shopian where on the intervening night of October 10 and 11, 1992, the forces entered into the village under the pretext of search operations directed the male members to assemble at one place for search. The forces then allegedly raped an See Reopen On PG 11..
>>>>> School Mental Health programme >>>>>
Drug addiction awareness camp held in Srinagar Srinagar, May 28: Police Drug De-Addiction centre today conducted a School Mental Health Programme in Crescent Educational Institute Natipora, Srinagar. Around 100 students of the school participated in the programme. The professionals encouraged the youth to join hands with the Police De-addiction services in order to make the society drug free. According to a police statement issued to KNS, a team of Mental Health professionals from Police De-addiction services, comprising of Haris Kashmiri (Psychiatric social worker), Fidah Hussain Mir and Zahid Jeelani Wani (counseling psychologist) educated the young students about the harmful effects of Drug abuse.
Speaking on the occasion Zahid Jeelani Wani highlighted the causes and consequences of youth substance abuse. He also talked about the psychological implications of substance abuse. Later, Haris Abrar Kashmiri talked about the drug de-addiction services initiated by J&K Police in February 2008. He also talked about the school mental Health Programme initiated by Police Drug De-addiction Centre in order to educate the youth regarding youth substance abuse and preventive measure to be taken. He further elaborated the social implications of Drug abuse. Fidah Hussain talked about the Stress and its management and also shared the 24x7 Stress See Drug On PG 11..
PM Narender Modi asks PMO officials to deal with state issues on priority New Delhi, May 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today made it clear that he will work for strengthening the federal structure of the country. Holding his first formal meeting with officials of the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Mr. Modi said he would like the PMO to consider issues, especially those raised by the states on priority and with sensitivity. He laid thrust on leveraging modern technology and developing systems and processes for effective monitoring and resolution of issues. The Prime Minister said that the PMO has emerged as an important institution over the past several decades and its best practices should be carried forward. He also stressed the need for resolving the people's grievances on fast track basis. Mr. Modi underscored the importance of addressing concerns raised by people's representatives personally or through See PM On PG 11..
IAF pays homage to Squadron Leader Saurabh Raghuvanshi
Tributes were paid to Squadron Leader Saurabh Raghuvanshi who died in aircraft crash in J&K Sector at Air Force Station Srinagar by Senior officers of Air Force, Army, personnel of Indian Air Force and families. His mortal remains were brought in a coffin draped in tri-colour, in full military honour carried by Air Force person-
nel.
Wreath was laid on behalf of Marshal of the Indian Air Force, the chief of Air Staff, Air Officer Commanding in Chief Western Air Command, General Officer Commanding in Chief Northern Command, Air Officer Commanding J&K by Air Commodore See IAF On PG 11..
C M Y K
Srinagar, Thursday 29 May 2014
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Wide accession to India and any change to this fundamental law is going to challenge the very basis of accession of J&K to India. According to a statement issued to KNS, Begum Shah further stated that having been a foot-soldier of Kashmir’s struggle against the autocratic rule and revolution towards freedom from the same she knew the very grounds and details about the said article. Begum Shah stated that it was due to the Article 370 only that J&K received special status in India, which allowed it to have its own constitution and gave the central government the right to legislate on only 3 issues, viz:- defense, currency and international relations and keeping the rest as internal matters. She stressed on the leaders to stop gaining cheap mileage over an issue which forms the ground of existence of the state of J&K within India. Referring to history Begum Shah stated that prior to the incorporation of article 370 in the constitution of India, great deal of deliberations were held with Shiekh Muhammad Abdullah, Mirza Afzal Beigh, Moulana Mohammad Sayed Maoosdi and Tilak Raj Anad and other representatives from the Indian side and it was after these excessive deliberations that article 370 as per a democratic set-up was incorporated in the constitution of India taking well in confidence two stalwart leaders namely Jawahar Lal Nehru and Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah. Begum Shah warned that any meddling with the article would yield serious repercussion in the basic structure of relations between the GoI and the State of J&K.
BJP sates of India then why the special status is needed as the same has no relevance at present. “It the time of its formation, the Article was needed for the accession and when the state is an integral part of Indian Union, its vitality stands nowhere.” Echoing the statement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi made at Jammu during the election rally that BJP is ready to debate Article 370; Gupta stated that all concerned parties will be taken into confidence and will be made understand that Article 370 is doing more harm top to the state than delivering goods. Commenting over remarks of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other parties that scraping Article 370 will infringe upon the instrument of accession, the senior BJP leader told KNS that the parties are using the decades old rhetoric. “Let them say what they are saying. I believe that Article 370 must go for the greater common good.” Meanwhile, other senior BJP leadership remained tight lipped when asked to comment upon the issue of Article 370 and the demand of its revocation. The BJP leadership stated that it will first discuss and then will issue any statement over the issue. (KNS)
U-Vani announcers complaining that they have been left unemployed, Director RK stated that among the U-Vani writers and announcers also those will be accommodated who could write and speak according to the FM format. “Earlier in U-Vani we could have undermined the mistakes but now, the writers and hosts will have to adopt the FM pattern.” (KNS)
Reopen 11-year-old girl and five other women. The medical reports also corroborated the accusations. In Wadwan area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district, at least 14 women were allegedly gang raped by Army and paramilitary forces on the intervening night of June 25 and 26, 1990. One of the victims succumbed at SHMS hospital on July 11, 1990. On August 1, 1992, Indian forces allegedly sexually assaulted two British girls (sisters) namely Stevenson Jennet and Stevenson Joane on July 31, 1992. In this regard, an FIR number 168/92 under section 376/511 and 354 stands registered in police station Gunj, which is pending for investigation. In Hilal Bahi Village of south Kashmir’s Islamabad district, on December 5, 1991, the paramilitary forces cordoned off a number of villages and started indiscriminate firing due to which 20 persons were injured and out of them, five were seriously injured. The forces then allegedly entered into the houses of the locals and raped four married women including a six-month pregnant lady, who later reported the matter to district authorities, Islamabad. An FIR stands registered in the police station, Dooru, Islamabad, which is under investigation. The medical reports also had confirmed that the ladies were raped. The Human Rights Forum has demanded an impartial probe into all the incidents of rape cases and molestations. All the pending cases must be expedited so that the culprits be brought to book and justice may be done therein.Meanwhile, International Forum for Justice and Human Rights-JK will participate in peaceful sit-in, which is being organized in memory of Asiya-Neeloar in Shopian district of South Kashmir. (KNS)
PM parliamentary procedures. He emphasised on team work to bring in good governance and encouraged officials to freely interact with him with their ideas.
Panchayat All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) last week ruled out resignations of its members and said it would continue to work for development of villages. (GNS)
Drug Management Helpline number with the audience. He also provided relaxation techniques to the students. The students raised multiple questions which were answered satisfactorily by the team. In the end, the management of school thanked the team and hoped for the continuation of such programs in future. They appreciated such kind of initiative taken by Jammu and Kashmir Police. (KNS)
Zabarwan Times
IAF B Balachandran Air Officer Commanding Air Force Station Srinagar, Corps Commander Chinar Corps and military officers of Army and Air Force at Srinagar.
Shopian “We have registered an FIR 118/2014 under sections 148, 147, 149, 342, 395 and452 RPC,” a police official said. (GNS)
Army public school Srinagar excels again in CBSE results Srinagar, May 28 : The Army Public School, Srinagar, continued its excellent performance with recording a 100% PASS Results for the third year in a row. According to an amry statement issued to KNS, the Central Board of Secondary Education declared the Class XII Results of the Northern Zone for the Academic Year 2013-14, today on 28 May 2014 at about 1100 hours. This year, for the first time in its history, two of its students scored over 90% marks, increasing the School’s Academic Performance Index (API) from 175 to a high figure of 190. Zaman Ishtiyaq, a Resident of Srinagar of the Science Stream topped the School with 93.4% marks while Khushdil Aijaz came second with 91.8% marks, followed by Pooja Raina with 83.4%. In the Commerce Stream, Simran Nasir topped the School with a score of 89.8% marks, followed by Priyanka Bakaya 89.2%
and Ambreen with 87.4% marks. The Principal, Mr Sandeep Marhatta, delighted with the School’s results, dedicated the achievement and the good results to the sincerity & hard work of the students and continuous dedication of the Faculty. He also thanked the School Management for the unstinted support and guidance resulting in the continued good academic performance of the School. Earlier, the School also excelled in Class X Results with again a 100% PASS Results with seven bright students of the School scoring a CGPA of 10. The Principal complimented Nidhi Koul, Darakshan Sajjad, Moudisa Jaan, Megha Watal, Megha Dhar, Sileena Pannu and Santoshi Balaji on achieving a CGPA of Perfect 10. The Army Public School, Srinagar with its continued good performance has definitely carved a niche for itself as one of the best CBSE School in the Valley. (KNS)
Zahid Iqbal drowning case
DC orders magisterial probe
Srinagar, May 28 (KNS): District magistrate Srinagar Wednesday ordered magisterial probe into the death of Zahid Iqbal under section 176 CRPC and submit the report within the period of two months. According to KNS reports, on August 26, 2013 Zahid’s body was fished out of Jehlum. The primary investigation of police stated that his death caused due to drowning. DC Srinagar in its order for inquiry stated that the office has received a report from SSP Srinagar regarding the inquest proceedings under section 174 CRPC initiated in the death of Zahid Iqbal’s case. The order maintained that whereas, the father of deceased has now approached this office with the request that a fresh enquiry may be conducted into the case of Zahid Iqbal.(KNS)
Unidentified body recovered in Kangan canal
Srinagar, May 28 (KNS): Ganderbal police recovered an unidentified body from Kangan power canal at Satrina. An unidentified body was recovered male body was recovered by police from Kangan power canal at Satrina. The body was shifted to the hospital for medico-legal formalities. Anybody having any information regarding the hwereabout of the deceased may please contact of Mobile 9622941225 or police control room on Dial 100. (KNS)
Forces conduct searches in north Kashmir forest
Srinagar, May 28: (GNS) Army and police on Wednesday launched searches in a forest of Kupwara district in north Kashmir, official sources said. They said that army’s 6 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and police conducted searches in Daril forests in Vilgam area of Handwara in the district following reports of presence of 2 to 3 militants.“However, the searches were called off at evening as no militant was found in the area,” sources told GNS. (GNS)
US to keep 9,800 Afghanistan troops after 2014 The US will keep 9,800 troops in Afghanistan after the US concludes its combat mission at the end of this year, President Barack Obama has said. Under the plan he announced at the White House, the US will then gradually withdraw troops until only a small residual force remains after 2016. The remaining troops would guard the US embassy, train Afghan forces and support counter-terrorism operations. But the plan depends on the Afghans signing a joint security agreement. While current Afghan President Hamid Karzai has refused to sign such an agreement, the Obama administration appears to be confident either of the two candidates seeking to replace him would do so. "This year, we will bring America's longest war to its responsible end," Mr Obama said. 'Hard-earned peace' Mr Obama described the timing for the withdrawal: Beginning of 2015: 9,800 troops spread out across Afghanistan End of 2015: About half that number, concentrated in Kabul and at nearby Bagram Air Base End of 2016: Fewer than 1,000 troops remain to guard the US embassy, train Afghan troops, and a "security assistance component" "We will no longer patrol Afghan cities and towns, mountains or valleys," Mr Obama said. "That is a task for the Afghan people." The troop numbers Mr Obama announced are largely in line with what military commanders have sought. His announcement indicates the longest war in American history - launched by President George W Bush following the 11 September 2001 al-Qaeda attacks - will end by the time he leaves of-
fice. Barack Obama is performing a balancing act. He's reminding the world why the US is in Afghanistan - because of the 9/11 attacks. He doesn't want people to say he's pulling out before the job is done. But he also wants to make it clear the war is winding down. Leaving nearly 10,000 troops there at the beginning of next year is just about what the military wanted. But that number will be halved by the end of that year. And most will be gone by 2016. Some will say he shouldn't predict any final numbers, but rely on what the top brass tell him at the time. We wait for the important West Point speech tomorrow but it is noticeable how much the president is focusing on the need to beat terrorism in other parts of the world - rather than the challenges posed by China and Russia. He could be accused of fighting the last war. Perhaps he's just making sure the next one doesn't happen. "We have to recognise Afghanistan
will not be a perfect place - and it is not America's responsibly to make it one," Mr Obama said. But he added the US would help Afghans secure a "hard-earned peace". Mr Obama acknowledged the length of the timetable for US involvement in Afghanistan: "I think Americans have learned it's harder to end wars than it is to begin them. Yet this is how wars end in the 21st Century." Afghanistan's run-off election between Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani to replace Mr Karzai is set for 14 June. Mr Obama noted on Tuesday that both have said they would sign a security agreement with the US. All British combat troops are due to leave by the end of this year. At the weekend, President Obama paid a surprise visit to US troops in Afghanistan. On Monday at a Memorial Day ceremony he paid tribute to the more than 2,000 soldiers who have lost their lives in the country's longest war.
Syrian voters in Lebanon throng embassy to cast ballots
YARZE, Lebanon — Syrians thronged their embassy in Lebanon Wednesday to cast ballots for President Bashar al-Assad, offering a forceful affirmation of his tightening grip on power after three years of conflict. The day was set aside for Syrian expatriates worldwide to cast ballots ahead of Tuesday’s nationwide election, which Assad is expected to win easily in the absence of serious challengers. President-elect Petro Poroshenko said he will call on the United States for military supplies and training. which pleased the government, suggests Assad’s rule is unlikely to end anytime soon. In Afghanistan, Obama’s troop withdrawal plan stirs fearIn Afghanistan, Obama’s troop withdrawal plan stirs fearFinancial and security concerns are paramount, with one
Afghan saying that “we will be in full crisis.”After more than a year of steady military gains by government loyalists, the election is seen as a chance for Assad to also claim a political victory over his opponents, who have struggled over the past year to make meaningful progress on the battlefield or to forge a coherent alternative to his rule. The chaotic scenes at the embassy in Lebanon, a nation that is home to more than a third of the 2.8 million Syrian refugees worldwide, seemed to reinforce the sense that there is no immediate likelihood of an end to Assad’s rule.The crowds were fueled in part by widespread rumors that those who do not vote will not be allowed to return home. There were fistfights and scuffles as desperate people fought to gain admission to the embassy grounds. Roads were clogged for miles by
people arriving in buses, in cars and on foot. The embassy announced that it was extending voting by a day to accommodate the large num-
bers. Although no figures were available, Syria’s ambassador to Lebanon, Ali Abdul-Karim Ali, expressed satisfaction with the turnout.
LOST GD
11
I have lost my Provisional 12th Class Certificate bearing Roll No. 870240. Now I have applied for duplicate copy of the same. Anybody having objection may convey to Chairman Green Land Educational Society, Hawal within 7 days. No objection will be entertained after said period. Mubaid Murtaza Khan S/o Billa Ahmad Khan R/o Buchpora, Alhamza Colony
LOST
I have lost 12th class provisional/ Character certificate somewhere. Now I have applied for its duplicate. Anybody having objection in this regard may file the same with the Principal Higher Secondary School Hafroo within 7 days after that no objection will be entertained. Manzoor Ahmad Khanday, S/o Hamid-ullah Khanday, R/o Watakullu
GOVERNMENT OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR,
SHER-I-KASHMIR INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES, SOURA OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE ENGINEER, MECHANICAL Expression of interest SIMS ME 04 OF 2014-15. DATED.26/05/2014 Sub: - Expression of interest for maintenance of SKIMS central air conditioning system from the technicians having experience in the job. For and on behalf of Director, SKIMS, expression of interest is invited in sealed covers affixed with Rs.5/- revenue stamps for work of maintaining and servicing of central AC Plant at SKIMS, Soura on round the clock basis from the applicants having experience in the job of 5years in maintenance of central AC systems with a diploma in mechanical / electrical trade or 10 years experience with ITI certificate in mechanical / electrical trade. The format of the application along with terms and conditions of the contract shall be available for sale from the office of the Executive Engineer, Mechanical w.e.f. 28.05.2014 to 03.06.2014 against the payment of fee of Rs.100/- (non refundable) in shape of bank draft pledged to Director Finance, SKIMS payable at Srinagar or to be deposited in Account No.CD-34 at JK Bank Branch office SKIMS, Soura. The duly filled in format of application from desirous applicants should be addressed to the Executive Engineer Mechanical SKIMS, Soura and should reach his office by or before 10.06.2014 (4.00PM). No:-SIMS 139 EX 283/14-312-19-273-D. Executive Engineer Dated: 26/05/2014 Mechanical, SKIMS
Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt. Quarters , M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 09999964750, 9796 787844
NEWS
Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
SRINAGAR | THURSDAY, MAY | 29 | 2014
Rather reviews winter stocking in Ladakh Asks concerned departments to complete stock dumping within next three months SRINAGAR, MAY 28- The Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr. Ab. Rahim Rather today urged for coordinated efforts between the concerned departments and Border Roads Organization to build up stocks of essential commodities, food grains, petroleum products and key building materials in Ladakh region as per the realistic requirements projected by the concerned District Development Commissioners of the twin snow bound districts of Leh and Kargil. “In view of the prevailing weather forecast surprises and forthcoming Assembly Elections, should complete dumping of stocks essentially during the three months of June, July and August this year”, Mr. Rather asserted. Speaking at a high level meeting convened here on Wednesday, Mr. Rather asked the Deputy Commissioners of Leh and Kargil Districts to contact Administrative Secretaries directly in case of any bottlenecks in smooth winter-stocking, Constituency, Thupstan Chwang, Minis- and representatives of Army and various adding that the concerned heads of the ter of State for Science & Technology, Mr. oil companies also attended the meeting. department should also approach Divi- Feroz Ahmad Khan and Chairman, Ladakh Mr. Rather asked the concerned departsional Commissioner, Kashmir to remove Autonomous Hill Development Council ments to put in place adequate number any difficulty coming in the way of im- (LAHDC), Mr. Rigzin Sapalbar were also of Weight Bridges at Sonamarg to evade Lone News Agency Khan News Agency Ganderbal plementing winter-stocking plan on theKangan present in the meeting. avoidable traffic jams adding that manground. He directed Gulzar to speed up dispatch News Agency SouraAmong others Administrative Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Secreagement of Weight Bridges should be the of consignments to the region nextHawal taries of Forest, CA&PD, Transport and La- Nowhatta sole responsibility of Motor Vehicles deTariq Newsfrom Agency Bashir News Agency month. dakh Affairs, I.G.P. Traffic Kashmir, Transpartment. Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal ChowkHe asked the transport departThe Minister for Urban Development port Commissioner, District Development ment to keep adequate number of trucks Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk and Urban Local Bodies, Mr. Nawang Rig- Commissioner Leh, heads of various de- available at ferry targeted quota of food Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan zin Jora, Member Parliament, Leh – Kargil partments and Public Sector Undertakings grains, petroleum products and key con-
Zabarwan Times is available at
Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Magam Dar News Agency Beerwah Reshi News Agency Safapora Basharat News Agency Bandipora Altaf News Agency Pulwama Jeelani News Agency Baramulla SRINAGAR, MAY 28- J&K Academy Art, Culture & Languages Shah NewsofAgency Kupwara today announced the Best Book Award-2012, carrying a cash Younis News Agency Langate prize of Rs. 51000, a citation, a memento and a shawl each, Reshi News Islamabad in various languages spoken in theAgency State.The awards will be Turray News Agency Tral announcepresented at a specially held function later.The Rahi News Agency Kulgam ment of the award was made by Secretary Academy, Khalid Bashir Ahmad, after Rah the recommendation of adjudicators News Agency Byepass
Academy announces Best Book Award-2012 in various languages
was approved by the President Academy and Chief Minister. He said the award in Dogri language goes to Yash Sharma for his Boond Trelu Di, in Gojri to Abdul Hamid Kasana for Kachi Tand, in Hindi to Naresh Kumar Udaas for Maan Gaon Chhorna Nahi Chahti, in Kashmiri to Ghulam Nabi Aatash for Sarmaye Te Saam, in Ladakhi to Lobzang Wangchuk for Ume Ltadup, in Pahari to Sheikh Azad Ahmad Azad for Sheeshey Niyan Kandhan, in Punjabi to Surinder Neer for Shikargah and in Urdu to Prof Hamidi Kashmiri for Urdu Nazm Ki Daryafat. He said the announcement was delayed due to the Code of Conduct being in place in connection of the recently held Parliamentary elections.Meanwhile, the Academy has already invited entries for the Best Book Award -2013. Authors whose entries did not make it to the award this time can resubmit their books for the Best Book Award -2012 up to June 15.
Rashid News Agency Dalgate Hilal News Agency Budgam Bhat News Agency Chadoora Zargar News Agency Kunzar Bashir News Agency Sumbal Saleem News Agency Pattan Reyaz News Agency Pampore Javaid News Agency Qazigund G.M News Agency Sopore SRINAGAR, MAY 28Speaker, Jammu Legislative Sultanand NewsKashmir Agency Handwara Assembly, Mr. Mubarak Gul has Sheikh News Agency Islamabad directed the officers of Irrigation Three Way News Agency Tral department to start construction Badru News Agency Bijbehara work on Rs.1 crore project of imMalik News Arwani provements of Agency Sangam-Syedpora Shaheen News Agency Kargil Irrigation Scheme immediately.
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.
struction materials up to Leh and Kargil districts without any difficulty and delay. The Secretary Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CA & PD) department said that SRTC has set aside required number of trucks at the disposal of CA & PD to ferry 34,000 truckloads of food grains. Of this, 92 truck loads have already been dispatched yesterday. He said the Government of India has approved additional quota of food grains as demanded by the State Government.
portant development issues, the Speaker directed the concerned to develop playing field and Park near Masjid Sharief and start construction work for development of the Asthan Sharief at Danmar Sangam. During his visit to Government Boys Secondary School, Sangam, Mr. Gul assured the students that the playing field be developed on modern lines. He said that the directions have already been given to Sports Council authorities for construction of Turf. Addressing a series of public gatherings at different places, the Speaker said that Government is committed to upgrade the existing infrastructure of health, education, PHE, power and civic facilities. Referring to the development works under execution in the Eidgah Constituency under various
sectors, the Speaker said that the construction of several developmental projects under different plans is a apace and on completion of these projects, they will maximize the developmental scenario of the area adding that various flagship programmes is under active consideration of the Government and these projects will be sanctioned soon.Responding to the demand of providing medical and para-medical staff and installing x-ray, ultrasound facilities and ambulance for Sangam hospital, the Speaker said that the directions have already been given to the concerned for immediate redressal in this regard.A team of senior officers and engineers of PHE, Irrigation, PDD, SMC, CA& PD and health department accompanied the Speaker during his tour.
Taj visits Kunzer Hospital, Dobhiwan HFW institute
SRINAGAR, MAY 28: Minister for Health & Medical Education, Mr. Taj Mohi ud Din today visited the Government Hospital Kunzer and took stock of the facilities available to patients there. He also interacted with the Hospital staff and ASHA workers, who apprised him about the patient care in the Hospital. The Minister reviewed the construction plan of the Hospital and directed completion of all facilities within the shortest possible time so that patients of the catchment areas get their benefit. Earlier, the Minister visited
the Health & Family Welfare Institute at Dobhiwan where
he inaugurated a Continuous
Medical Education (CME) being conducted by the Health Depart-
ment. He said the Government
Governor reviews Amarnathji Yatra arrangements at Baltal SRINAGAR, MAY 28: All arrangements relating to the Shri Amarnathji Yatra, which is commencing from 28th of June, 2014, should be put in place well in time to ensure a comfortable pilgrimage for all those who visit the Shri Amarnathji Shrine this year. Shri N.N. Vohra, Governor of J&K, who is also Chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, gave clear directions on these lines to all concerned authorities after inspecting the current status of arrangements being made for the Yatra at Baltal and Access Control Gate at Domel. Earlier, the Governor accompanied by Shri Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Chief Executive Officer, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board conducted an aerial reconnaissance of the Baltal route. Subsequently, in a meeting held with the Ganderbal District Administration, the current status of the snow clearance on the Baltal Holy Cave route and the repair and upgradation of the entire Baltal track was
reviewed. The B&R Deptt. informed the Governor that the first 7kms. of the track from Baltal had been cleared till today. The Governor discussed, department wise, the facilities to be provided for the Yatra and particularly reviewed the position in regard to power, water supply and medical facilities in the entire Yatra area.The Governor directed the Labour and Animal Husbandry Departments to ensure timely and proper registration of Ponies, Pony-wallas, Dandi-wallas and Palki-wallas in order to ensure against unauthorized persons crowding the narrow tracks. Arrangements regarding the provision of safety measures at the Baltal Camp, particularly fire and emergency services and setting up of a Joint Control Room, were discussed with the Fire Services Department and Inspector General of Police, Kashmir. The Governor devoted considerable time to review the steps being taken by the Sonamarg Development Authority.
has decided to include all credit activities including CMEs, work-
shops, paper writings etc. in the
promotion evaluation process in the Medical Education Department and similar procedure would be applied in Health Department. The Minister went round several units of the institute and impressed upon the doctors to sensitise critical sections of society about the emergency response and how to provide quick relief in case of trauma accidents.Director, Health Services, Kashmir, Dr. Saleem ur Rehman, Mission Director, NRHM, Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Principal, IHFW, Mr. Manzoor Qadri and doctors and specialists from SMHS and SKIMS attended the inaugural session of the CME.
Speaker constitutes House Committees SRINAGAR, MAY 27: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Mr. Mubarak Gul constituted three Financial Committees of the House which include Committes on Public Accounts, Estimates and on Public Undertakings. The members of these Committees would serve till the completion of the term of 11th Legislative Assembly. The Committee on Public Accounts would be headed by Mr. Abdul Haq Khan, while as Choudhary Mohammad Aslam, Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta, Mir Javaid Ahmed Dar, Mr. Rachpaul Singh, Mr. Rafi Ahmed Mir, Mr. Jagdish Raj Spolia, Smt. Bimla Luthra, Mr. Ashok Kumar, Peerzada Mansoor Hussain and Mr. Mohammad Irfan Shah would be its members. Mr G M Saroori would be the chairman of Committee on Public Undertakings with Dr. Mustaffa Kamal, Mr. Harsh Dev Singh, Mr. A.R. Veeri, Mr. Tsetan Namgyal, Mr. Mohammad Yas-
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.
Speaker for speedy work on Rs.1 cr Sangam Irrigation Scheme
This direction was given by the Speaker during his extensive tour to various arrears of Eidgah Constituency including Sanagam area today. The Speaker also asked the Roads and Buildings Department to pursue vigorously about SangamMirpur road project prepared under NABARD at an estimated cost of Rs.2.07 crore and start construction work on the project immediately so that the long pending demand of the people of the area be fulfilled. To redress the grievances of im-
HOROSCOPE
een Shah, Mr. Nizzam-ud-Din Bhat, Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Jan, Mr. Krishan Chander Bhagat, Prof Gharu Ram Bhagat and Mr. Charanjit Singh its members. The Committee on Estimates would be headed by Mr. Surjit Singh Slathia with members Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen, Mr. Abdul Gaffar Sofi, Mr. M.Y Tarigami, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Khan, Syed Basharat Ahmed Bukhari, Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Ganie, Mr. Baldev Raj Sharma, Er. Abdul Rashid and Smt. Indu Pawar. In exercise of the powers conferred by Rule 341 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Speaker Mr, Mubarak Gul nominated the members of the Legislative Assembly to serve on the Committee on Petitions till the completion of the term of 11th Legislative Assembly.
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
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 EDITORIAL Make Articlenewly 370 - a created bridge between administrative state and centre controversy startunitshe a ed byreality Dr. Jitender
T T
Singh, MoS in Modi
he recenthasdecision cabinet evoked of creating about six strong and wide hundred from new even adspread criticism ministrative unitsStatis the mainstream parties. of courseofaabrogation welcome ing that process decision and willofsolve probof Article370 thethe constitulems of India thoseisfar-flung areas tion of underway, the where people had to foot severminister has indicated the alintentions miles to bring their problems of BJP led Govt. into the notice of the lower and which in no way will be acmiddle rung officers. In certain ceptable to the people of J&K. areas people living in BJP the hilly His assertions that is in regions would reach the concontinuous talks with stakecerned to holdersofficers and asafter BJP three has won four These administrative halfdays. of the seats from J&K, units no doubt will save time, hence, it is an endorsement money and energy of general of BJP stand cannot find any masses who will be benefitted takers. He had to eat a humble topie getwhen their problems criticism mitigated mounted, near their own places of resihe took u-turn. Whether BJP dence. However these adminis able to repeal Article 370 istrative will needquestion, a huge or not, units is a separate infrastructure budget. The but making and clear its intengovernment has been able to tions, the party has hurt the spare only five crore rupees in sentiments of Kashmiris for the firstArticle instance370 which is too whom has become meager with.aItsymbol was ex-of a pointto ofstart honour, pected that at and leasttheir over sense one their dignity hundred crore to rupees would beIf of belonging the country. made available the budget for attempts are inmade to repeal establishment of these adminor damage this article, it will istrative units. The low budget not only attract opposition, option will only the task resentment andmake criticism, but difficult as neither the basic inwill create more alienation by frastructure can be nor strengthening thecreated tendencies the staffare required adwhich averseintothese accession ministrative be Article made with New units Delhi.can The available. Earlier the creation of 370 which otherwise has been several newtodistricts in the state reduced skeleton is workcreated ing as similar a bridgeproblems betweenbut the somehow the government manpeople of Kashmir and rest of aged to provide minimum the country andthe may result in infrastructure alsoasstaff wide spread and revolt the to sitthese districts, mostly on transuation can be exploited to tilt fer However the Mr. newModi adbybasis. vested interests. ministrative units will require a and his BJP led Govt. has sevlot of staff and thattask staff has to beit eral daunting before recruited that theyitstart theirits and whysoshould waste work and the spirit behind energy in creating morethe encreation of these administrative emies on an issue which has units is not wasted. The governpsychological, emotional and ment has to first prioritize the sentimental bearing on the minimum possibleThe funding for people Kashmir. majority these unitsnot andmean can that evenwhatapvote does proach the new central government ever the Govt. likes, it for assistance through different can do. It means that the new centrally sponsored schemes. Govt. should excel in all the The first and foremost thing is fields of development and weltofare havebetter a placethan for these adminthe previous istrative if thestrengthplace is Govt. units and and should not even if officials en available, the unity, integrity ofare the posted, no work can be done or country. Mr. Modi has been undertaken. This with step isaabig historvoted to power bang icand onehe andshould its credit goes to not wastethe the present coalition governments mandate of the people in those which still some months futile has exercises which willtobe apply its mind for making these harmful for the country. The units workable and effective. If attempts of abrogation of Arthat is 370 not are done the decision will ticle nothing but in the go a waste and it will take severlong run can prove very danalgerous years for new government forthe the integrity of the tonation. make these administrative establishments a reality.
Daily Daily
Zabarwan ZabarwanTimes Times
Srinagar, 2529February 2014 Srinagar,Tuesday Thursday May 2014
HLL Life Care Ltd – A Success Story
H
LL Life Care Ltd, Thiruvananthapuram under the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry has become one of the largest producers of condoms in the world. HLL’s total annual condom production capacity has now touched 1616 million pieces. Overseas and domestic demand for condoms has grown manifold especially in the wake of the Central government’s launch of free condom distribution in rural districts which is a high-focus area for HLL. The company has started a major drive to augment production capacity in its units. As part of this action plan, the production capacity at its primary production plants in Peroorkada unit has been enhanced from 1,066 to 1,246 million pieces per annum by installing two moulding machines. The company also manufactures condoms at its Belgaum and Hyderabad units, apart from Peroorkada. “Demand in the domestic and the overseas markets are on the rise. We are also on a major expansion drive to cope with the need. In the last three months, we have added a capacity of 120 million pieces. Another round of expansion has also been planned”, said HLL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. M. Ayyappan. “We supplied around 1,040 million condoms to the Health Ministry alone last year. There has been added pressure with the Government launching door-to-door delivery of condoms free of cost to stabilize the population. Besides, a rising awareness among people is also driving demand in the domestic sector. We are looking to bolster production considerably during 2013-14 and remain as one of the world leaders”, he added. The Union Health Ministry has identified 266 high-focus districts in the country to deliver contraceptives at people’s doorsteps with the help of accredited social health activists (AHSAs) as part of efforts at population control. HLL is the main supplier of products for this scheme. As part of its drive to optimise production and minimise wastage, the company has also installed a new vulcanising machine. The new machine would help keep heat distribution at an optimum level resulting in reduction of process wastages and rejections in vulca-
nising section apart from reducing energy consumption. The company also launched trial production of an over-wrapping machine in the packaging section.
Female Condoms, Femidom
Female condoms made their entry into the Indian market through HLL Lifecare Ltd. While sales are slow among urban women, the female condom is being promoted by government bodies and NGOs among sex workers as protection against HIV/AIDS. Dr. M. Ayyappan noted, “Currently, we are manufacturing around three million female condoms and 1,600 million male condoms annually for the Indian and overseas markets. The difference in numbers says it all.” He attributes the reason to conservative mindsets, ignorance about the product and accessibility. Since the Indian market is slow to accept the production, HLL took a decade to make the male condom as popular as it is now. Dr. Ayyappan is confident that the female condom too will begin to make an impact in the right direction in a matter of years. HLL plans to introduce the natural latex based female condom by mid 2013 in the market. The female condom was invented by Dr. Lasse Hessel, a Danish physician in the 1980s. The first generation FC1 female condom was made from polyurethane. First introduced in the market in the nineties, the Femidom or female condom came at a time when people were waking up to the scary reality of AIDS. Condoms are still considered a men’s product. At the global level the female condom was quick to catch people’s attention, thanks to aggressive marketing techniques. This product received mixed reviews from different quarters of the world. Getting used to the idea of wearing a condom, for most women, was not worth the effort. Slowly, in other countries, the Femidom made a difference in the lives of women who did not have a say in their sexual health before the product came into their lives. Women were using it to protect themselves against partners who refused to wear condoms. Most people are still unaware of female condom or do not have access to it. Reports state that the demand though has come from unexpected quarters like developing countries where women felt empowered with
choice to use protection. The next version, FC2, was made from synthetic nitrile at a reduced cost. The World Health organization (WHO) approved the FC2 for purchase by U.N.agencies in developing countries where the Femidom played a strong role in sex education programmes for women. From an acceptability study conducted by Hindustan Latex Family Planning Promotion Trust (HLFPPT) in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Maharashtra, it was found that people were open to the idea of using female condom. More than 90,000 female condoms were marketed in Andhra Pradesh through a social marketing programme in 2006. The following year, a similar plan was executed in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra and West Bengal. In 2008, National AIDS Control Organization (NACO) decided to make female condom available to sex workers in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and West Bengal. FC2 female condom gives women control and choice over their own sexual health as women can protect themselves when their partner does not want to use a male condom. Women in urban and rural areas in India have not started using Femidom to complement already existing family planning and HIV/AIDS programming. HLL has its female condom assembling facility at Cochin Special Economic Zone (CSE), Kakkanad. “Currently the annual capacity of Kochi factory is 7.5 million pieces. We will be adding another 25 million by the end of this year. Apart from supplying female condoms to national programmes under the ministry of health and family welfare, we also export female condoms to be South Asian Association of Regional Co-operation (SAARC) markets”, said Dr. M. Ayyappan. “Female condoms have the potential to revolutionize safer sex for diverse populations. They are also the only women - initiated method available today that offers dual protection from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections including HIV”, Dr. Ayyappan explained. Global female condom day is being observed on September 12 every year. HLL produces female condom under the brand name “Velvet”.
Border Roads Organisation: Best under Extremes
T
he Border Roads Organisation was conceived and raised in March 1960 by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the great visionary and the first Prime Minister of India. This was done with the aim of coordinating the speedy development of a network of roads in the North and the North-Eastern Border regions of the country . The team, a fine blend of officers from Indian Army and General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF), is headed by a Lt Gen from the Indian Army. During the last 52 years this organisation has served the country, braving inhospitable and rugged terrain, adverse climate, inclement environmental conditions and insurgency. Till date, BRO has constructed approximately 50500 Km of roads, 430 major permanent bridges of 42,000 m length and 19 airfields in difficult and remote areas of the country where no other construction agency dared to venture. At present BRO is working on numerous roads, which include new construction, as well as improvement from single lane to double lane. BRO is maintaining approximately 22,500 Km of roads. In addition, the Organisation carries out snow clearance on 95 roads (3,000 Km) every year to ensure connectivity of border regions to the rest of the country. Honours & Awards In recognition of the distinguished and meritorious services and acts of gallantry displayed by officers and men, BRO has been bestowed with the following during Independence Day 2012, Army Day and Republic Day 2013. (a) BAR TO VSM 01 No b) Shaurya Chakra 01 No (d) COAS Commendation Card 10 Nos
(e) VCOAS Commendation Card 16 Nos (f) Govt CC Card 05 Nos In addition to the vast network of roads being developed and maintained, some major achievements highlighting the technical prowess and professionalism of BRO are: Rohtang Tunnel The tunnel will provide an unhindered road access to the remote regions of Lahaul-Spiti and Pangi Valley throughout the year besides reducing the road distance by nearly 48 Kms, a travel time of about four hours. The progress is 3298 Mtrs upto Feb 2013 amidst geological surprises.
Digaru Bridge The Raksha Rajya Mantri and Chairman, Border Roads Development Board Dr MM Pallam Raju inaugurated the 720 m, longest departmentally constructed Digaru Bridge by Project Udayak of BRO on 09 Apr 2012 in Lohit District in presence of Lt Gen S Ravi Shankar, PVSM, VSM, EX DGBR, and other civil and military dignitaries. The inauguration of Digaru Bridge (720 meter) established connectivity between Lohit and Dibang valley with Arunachal Pradesh which fulfilled the long pending demand of local population as well as Army authorities.
Simen Bridge The Raksha Rajya Mantri and Chairman, Border Roads Development Board Dr MM Pallam
Raju inaugurated a 480 m length bridge built across river Simen on Akajan-Jonai-Pasighat road (NH 52) in Arunachal Pradesh on 04 Jul 2012 in presence of DGBR and various Civil and Military officials. The opening of bridge, of National Highway Double Lane specifications, will usher in a new era of development for the civil population, Army and Paramilitary Forces and a host of other agencies working for infrastructure development of the region.
Basohli Bridge The foundation stone of the bridge was laid by the Chairperson of National Advisory Council, Mrs Sonia Gandhi. The progress on the bridge is as per schedule.
Z-Morh Tunnel The foundation stone of Z-Morh Tunnel was laid by Dr. CP Joshi, Union Minister of Road, Transport & Highways and Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of Parliament, at Sonamarg (J&K) on 04 Oct 2012. Srinagar-Kargil-Leh Highway is an important road link between Kashmir valley and Ladakh region. It was felt essential to construct a tunnel at Z-Morh to open the Sonamarg Valley and Zojila for further providing all weather connectivity from Srinagar to Leh. Construction of the Z-Morh tunnel is now being taken up which would make Sonamarg an all weather tourist destination thereby giving a boost to the economy of the region.
Disclaimer: :The Thecontents contentsand andcomments commentsappearing appearingininany anyarticle articlepublished publishedininthis thispaper paperare arepurely purelythe thepersonal personalopinion opinionofofthe thewriter writer Disclaimer