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FRIDAY 29 August | 2014 | 03 Zul-qaddah, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 | http://www.zabarwantimes.com
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Ready to talk J&K within bilateral framework: India to Pakistan
New Delhi, Aug 28: India on Thursday made it clear that it was willing to discuss the issue of Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistan within the framework of bilateral agreements of Simla pact and Lahore Declaration. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin was reacting to Pakistan government’s remarks that the Indo- Pak dialogue without discussions on Kashmir was “unacceptable”. “As regards engagement with Pakistan, we have made it very clear that we will engage in the framework of Simla agreement and Lahore Declaration and both these provide for discussing all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir. Our view is very clear, a bilateral framework to discuss all outstanding issues, including the issue of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
He was asked about the comments by Pakistani National Security Advisor Sartaj Aziz, who has said that Islamabad offered talks to New
Delhi in “good faith,” but holding a dialogue without addressing the Kashmir issue was See Ready On PG 11..
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
Pradhan Mantri 1.5 crore bank accounts opened Jan Dhan Yojana across the country launched in J&K PM launches Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
New Delhi, Aug 28: The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today declared the beginning of the end of financial untouchability in India, with the opening of an estimated 1.5 crore bank accounts across the country, in an exercise unprecedented in scale in economic history. Formally launching the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) at a function broadcast across the nation from Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, the Prime Minister described the occasion as a festival to celebrate the liberation of the poor from a poisonous cycle. (Vish-chakra se gareebon ki aazaadi ka parv) Expressing satisfaction at a number of records being broken today, the
Prime Minister said the nationwide success of the enrolment drive today would give confidence not just to the officials of the Department of Financial Services and banking sectors, but also to officers across the Union Government, that they can successfully achieve the goals that they set for themselves. "Never before would insurance companies have issued 1.5 crore accident insurance policies in a single day. Never before in economic history would 1.5 crore bank accounts have been opened in a single day. Never before has the Government of India organized a programme of such scale – over 77,000 locations – with the participation of so See PM On PG 11..
Council witness uproarious, scenes Road accident claims 8 lives including a couple Resolution for resumption of Ramban, Aug 28: In a tragic road accident eight passengers including a couple were killed when a Tata Sumo in which they were travelling , skidded off the road and rolled down about 500 feet deep gorge near Nachlana curve in Banihal town of District Ramban on Thursday morning. The ill fated Tata Sumo bearing (JK19-1902) which was on its way to sulphur spring in Khadi-Mohi Mangat belt in Ramban district of Jammu province was carrying 11 passengers including the driver. Eight of them died on spot while three others sus-
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tained injuries. Soon-after receiving the information about the accident, heavy contingent of Police personnel assisted by local population started rescue operation. Police sources told CNS that the rescue team evacuated the dead bodies of all the 8 persons including 5 ladies and 3 gents. A couple from Tajnihal Ramsoo also died in the accident. Police identified the deceased as Muhammad Ismayil and his wife Jana Begum resident See Road On PG 11..
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Indo-Pak talks passed in LC 474 ceasefire violations in JK since 2009
Srinagar, Aug 28 : The Jammu and Kashmir state Legislative Council on Thursday unanimously adopted a resolution remarking that dialogue between India and Pakistan must be resumed at an earliest. According to the KNS correspondent, the resolution brought in by the chairman of the council, stressed
that the loss of human life must be stopped along with the damage in the property so that ensure peace and stability in the subcontinent in general and the state of Jammu & Kashmir in particular could prevail at large. The ruckus was witnessed in the upper house of the state legislature over the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan and also over the loss of human lives and property at the border. See Council On PG 11..
Srinagar, Aug 29: J&K Bank, Convenor J&K State Level Bankers’ Committee today organised the launching ceremony of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) in Srinagar and Jammu Launching function was held here at SKICC, while as in Jammu it was held at Government Women’s College, Gandhi Nagar. J&K Finance Minister Abdul Rahim Rather was Chief Guest here at Srinagar function while
as Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences and MoS for Prime Minister Office Dr. Jitender Singh was the Guest of Honour at the function. One and half crore saving accounts were opened across the country as Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the country-wide campaign of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) at Vigyan Bhavan in See JK On PG 11..
Ban on TV news bulletin for time being: Govt No proposal as of now to consider lifting the ban Srinagar, Aug 28 : The state gov-
ernment on Thursday said that it has no proposal as of now to consider lifting of the ban on the telecast of the news through private channels in Kashmir. According to the KNS correspondent, the question submitted by the independent legislator from Langate Engineer Abdul Rashid asked the state authorities whether it has any proposal
to lift ban on private TV news channels (Local) in Kashmir valley; if so, when; if not the reasons thereof. While responding to the question, the state government said that the telecast of some private TV news channels were found to violate the Cable Television Network Regulation Act, 1995, and therefore, has been stopped for the time being. . The state government maintained further that there is no ban on the telecast See Ban On PG 11..
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Srinagar, Friday 29 August 2014
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Ready... unacceptable to Pakistan. Aziz was also quoted as saying that Pakistani officials have met with leaders from the Indian portion of Kashmir in the past and New Delhi had not objected until now. India had called off the talks between Foreign Secretaries slated for August 25, telling Pakistan bluntly to choose between an Indo-Pak dialogue or hobnobbing with the separatists. India also objected to Pakistan terming the Kashmiri separatists as “stakeholders” in the resolution of Kashmir issue saying that, as per Simla Agreement, it was a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan and any other approach will “not yield results”. Asked about the BSF chief’s remarks that India has witnessed heaviest ceasefire violations along the International Border since 1971 war, he merely said Indian forces are best equipped to respond to such incidents.
PM... many Chief Ministers, Union Ministers, Government and bank officials." He said the success is an inspiration for achieving new heights. The Prime Minister said that though the initial target of PMJDY was to open bank accounts for 7.5 crore families in one year, he had exhorted the concerned officials to complete the task before the next Republic Day. Elaborating the benefits under PMJDY, the Prime Minister said this was not a mere bank account, but had other benefits including an RuPay debit card, Rs 1 lakh accident insurance cover, and an additional Rs. 30,000/- life insurance cover for those opening bank accounts before January 26th, 2015. He said the account performance would be monitored and overdraft facility would be given. The Prime Minister said he had sent 7.25 lakh bank employees, exhorting them to help reach the target of 7.5 crore bank accounts, and bring freedom from financial untouchability. The Prime Minister referred to the five beneficiary couples who had received account opening kits in today`s event at Vigyan Bhawan, and said the ladies appeared to have dressed for a festival. He said they knew that there could be no bigger festival than the opening of a bank account for empowering women. The Prime Minister said when banks were nationalized in 1969, it was done with the objective of bringing people into the economic mainstream. But that objective had not been achieved till date. After 68 years of independence, not even 68% of India`s population had access to banking, he added. He said it is easy for the rich to get a loan at low interest rates. But the poor are forced to seek loans from money-lenders at five times the rate charged to the rich. Is it not the responsibility of the banking industry to provide banking access to the poor, the Prime Minister asked.The Prime Minister illustrated his point through the example of a mother saving money and being forced to hide it somewhere within the house. He said the bank officials who had opened an account for such a mother, had been blessed today. He said a breakthrough was required to overcome the vicious cycle of poverty and debt, and that breakthrough had been achieved today. He said there were similarities between the poor getting access to mobile telephones, and getting access to debit cards. They both had the effect of instilling confidence and pride among the poor, he added.The Prime Minister referred to the ancient Sanskrit verse: Sukhasya Moolam Dharma, Dharmasya Moolam Artha, Arthasya Moolam Rajyam – which puts the onus on the state to involve people in economic activity. "This Government has accepted this responsibility," the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister said Indians had a habit of saving, and thinking about the future of their children. The Prime Minister also distributed awards to winners of the Name and Logo contest for this scheme. He observed that those who won prizes were predominantly from non-Hindi speaking states, but had won prizes for coining a name and slogan in Hindi. This is an example of national integration, he said. Speaking on the occasion, the Finance Minister said PMJDY would be taken forward in Mission Mode, and the first target of reaching 7.5 crore unbanked families would be achieved by January 26th, 2015. The Minister of State for Finance, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, said the lady of the house had been given priority in the PMJDY. She said this scheme would touch the lives of everyone in a positive and constructive way.
Zabarwan Times
JK... Delhi. Prime Minister’s Address to the nation was beamed live into the SKICC auditorium. Earlier, the ceremony began with the lighting of candles by the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour in presence of Chief Secretary M I Khanday and J&K Bank Chairman and CEO Mushtaq Ahmad. Speaking on the occasion, Finance Minister said, “The launch of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna is an important milestone for the financial inclusion programme which has been successfully carried out in the state by the banks.” “Led by J&K Bank, banks in the state have successfully accomplished Financial Inclusion Plan Phase-1 by providing 100 percent coverage to all the 795 villages with population above 2000. Even 80 percent of 5582 unbanked villages have been covered under the phase two of the Swabhiman campaign”, he said. However, he cautioned about the bottlenecks in implementing the huge PMJDY saying, “Success of the programme shall be greatly ensured if the bottlenecks in the logistics and other infra-structural problems are taken care of in advance.” He expressed confidence that the banks in the state under the leadership of J&K Bank were capable of shouldering the huge responsibilities that the scheme entails. Speaking to the jam-packed audience, Dr Jitender Singh said, “Today is a memorable day for the people of this country. The dream that every individual will have a bank account, which gives him/her a sense of individual and national identity, is soon to be realized. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a foresight and vision because he has consistently been focusing on science and economy, which can prove to be real equalizers.” The efforts of financial inclusion have been there already but Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana is a step forward in that direction, he added. Chairman and CEO Mushtaq Ahmad said, “Financial Inclusion has always remained our high priority for promoting inclusive growth and bringing into the banking fold the people who live their lives outside the formal economy and whose daily struggle is still basic in nature and moves around the quest for survival. Reiterating the bank’s commitment to PMJDY, he said, “We will rise to meet the challenge of this comprehensive financial inclusion plan and shall successfully break the perpetual cycle of exclusion and depravity across the state.” On the occasion, there was a symbolic distribution of welcome kits among beneficiaries that contained RuPay Debit Card, Passbook and literature on financial awareness. The new scheme - an improvement over the current financial inclusion programme envisages Rs 5,000 overdraft facility for Aadhar-linked accounts, RuPay Debit Card with inbuilt accident insurance cover of Rs 1 lac for the account holder and minimum monthly remuneration of Rs 5,000 to business correspondents who will provide the last link between the account holders and the bank. Meanwhile, in Jammu Union Minister for Water Resources and River Development Uma Bharti was the Chief Guest and State Minister for Planning Ajay Sadhotra was the Guest of Honour on the occasion. The function commenced with the lighting of candles by Uma Bharti, Ajay Sadhotra, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Shantmanu, Regional Director RBI K K Saraf and J&K Bank Executive President Parvez Ahmad. Underlining the significance of PMJDY, Union Minister Uma Bharti said, “Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana is a leap forward for the downtrodden section of society across the country. It is especially a blessing for women folk who would certainly feel empowered through the scheme.” Self-reliance is what makes a woman really feel empowered and PMJDY is a significant step in that direction, she added. “The scheme seeks to ensure access to financial services by all including weaker sections and lower income groups of the society. Financial inclusion is the first necessary condition for the comprehensive and meaningful development of the country”, said Ajay Sadhotra. Speaking on the occasion, Executive President Parvez Ahmad said, “Movement towards financial inclusion has been national commitment as well as public policy priority for long, but the plan has got real boost since Prime Minister’s announcement of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana during his independence-day speech.” “In Jammu and Kashmir, J&K SLBC and especially J&K Bank have adopted inclusive growth as primary objective in decision making, in synchronization with our guiding principle of ‘serving to empower’. And we have always remained at the forefront for economic
Faculty of Commerce & Management Studies
University of Kashmir
IMBA (5 year Integrated) Admission Notification(Counselling)-1 Open Merit/Self-Finance
It is hereby notified for the information of the IMBA candidates bearing following Entrance Test Roll Nos. that they have been provisionally selected for admission to IMBA programme, session 2014 in The Business School, University of Kashmir under Self Finance and in North Campus under Open Merit and Self-Finance categories on the basis of overall performance in Entrance Test (all components) and the counselling held on 26-08-2014. The selection of the candidate is strictly provisional, subject to the verification of original marks certificates of qualifying examination, character certificate and UGAT score. The candidate should submit an affidavit duly attested by 1st class Magistrate to the effect that he is not enrolled with any other course in this University or any other University/Institution. The candidates who have been selected for the above programme (IMBA) are advised to approach their respective institutions alongwith their original certificates for completing the required admission formalities by or before 03-09-2014. If the candidate fails to complete the admission formalities within the above stipulated date, he/she shall forfeit his/her right to admission. The requisite admission forms and details of fee dues can be obtained from their respective Institutions where candidate is selected. The Business School, University of Kashmir: Self-Finance: 2348, 2133. North Campus, Baramulla: Open Merit: 2244, 2078, 2166, 2327, 2123, 2039, 2067, 2162, 2119, 2029, 2156, 2177, 2357, 2273, 2229, 2266, 2102, 2196, 2053, 2349, 2014, 2157, 2008. Self-Finance: 2172, 2032, 2208, 2242, 2198, 2018, 2387, 2127, 2079, 2165, 2250. The admission of the candidates who have been shifted from one to another institution/programme on the basis of their preferences and merit stands automatically cancelled in their respective institutions and shall be entitled to 100% refund of the fee deposited by them. No.F(Admn.Consl-IMBA-1)DFCM/KU/14/ET-256 Dated: 28-08-2014
(Prof. Shabir A. Bhat) Dean
upliftment and implementation of government programmes”, he said. On the occasion, there was a symbolic distribution of welcome kits among beneficiaries that contained RuPay Debit Card, Passbook and literature on financial awareness.
Road... of Tajnihal Ramsoo, Muhammad Shafi son of Muhammad Akbar resident of Khadihal Banihal, Saima Jan daughter of Muhammad Akbar, Abdul Rouf son of Muhammad Akbar, Rubina Bano wife of Muhammad Shafi, Zahida Jan wife of Muhammad Shafi and Shaista Akhtar wife of Gulzar Ahmed all residents of Nachlana. The injured whome police identified as Hamida Bano, Irfan Ali, Nisar Rashid of Khadinala Banihal have been shifted to Sub-District Hospital Ramban where according to doctors their condition is critical. A police official told CNS that all bodies of accident victims were shifted to District Hospital Ramban and after completing all legal formalities were handed over to legal heirs. Governor N. N. Vohra, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Dr Farooq Abdullah, Mufti Muhammad Sayeed, Mehbooba Mufti, Speaker Mubarak Gul, MLA Banihal Vikar Rasool expressed grief over the loss of precious human lives in this road accident and conveyed their sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls of those who lost their lives in this tragic road accident. The Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Mubarak Gul on behalf of the House expressed shock and grief over the demise of eight persons in this road accident. The Speaker directed the administration for providing immediate ex-gratia to the deceased families and all possible treatment facilities to the injured ones. The Speaker also directed the concerned departments to implement the recommendations of the House Committee strictly to avoid road accidents. The Chief Minister sanctioned Rs. one lakh relief in favour of deceased and Rs.10000 for injured.
Council... On August 26, legislator and PDP chief spokesman Naeem Akhtar stressed that resolution must be passed in the house so that a message could be sent to both India and Pakistan that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are not the mere statistics but the human being and that the humanitarian crises at the border must be stopped. NC’s Devender Singh Rana seconded Akhtar at that time with both the legislators maintaining that no one will be allowed to play politics over the escalating Indo-Pak tensions. The duo was referring BJP president Amit Shah’s rally in the border areas of Jammu. On Thursday, Devender Singh Rana of ruling National Conference (NC) was allowed by the chairman of legislative council to speak on the resolution. Soon after Rana began to speak, Peoples Democratic Party legislators stood on their seats, asserting that sufficient time had not been given to them to study the resolution. NC legislator Shahnaz Ganai also opposed the move, saying that Rana had been allowed to table the resolution while her motion on concerned issues was ignored by the house. Amid uproar, NC’s Davindar Singh Rana left the house. Meanwhile, the council stated that the house unanimously resolves that the state government shall urge the Union Government to take effective measures for the prevention of LOC firing which has caused huge loss of life and property in the affected areas. The house also recommended that the state government should take immediate steps for the relief and rehabilitation of the victims of LOC firing and shall provide all required help and facilities to them in this regard. The state government in its figures stated that since 2009, 156 ceasefire resolutions on International border in Jammu and Kashmir and on LoC 268 ceasefire res-
olutions have taken place in Jammu region since 2009 while as in Kashmir the number of ceasefire volitions from 2009 to August 25 are 50 in number. The government informed that overall 474 cease fire violations have been reported both at the international border and along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. It maintained further that nearly 5000 families of 21 villages in R.S.Pora, 9 villages in Bisnah and 15 villages in Jammu Tehsil which fall within one km distance from International border have been affected. The government said that between July 16 this year to August 25, two civilians in R.S Pora and one security personal in Arnia, Jammu have lost their lives. 12 civilians hae also been injured along with five security personnel. Eight animas have been killed while as 13 have been injured. The data informs that six houses have been damaged due to firings.
Ban... of the recreational or entertainment programs by these channels. The government said that there is no proposal as of now to consider lifting of the ban on these channels on the telecast of the news bulletins. The government here imposed the ban on news shows that used to be aired via local cable networks during the alleged Shopian rape case in 2009. After a year, a complete ban on news telecast was imposed by the state authorities with the reason that the content telecasted is threat to law and order and could disrupt the situation. The opposition parties while slamming the state authorities over imposing curbs on the channels questioned the reason behind allowing the channels to telecast the news in Jammu region. Several legislators of the party in the past while raising the issue of ban on local news in valley asked the government to lift the same at an earliest. (KNS)
BJP committed to peace, prosperity, developments in JK: Dr Jitendra Singh Srinagar, Aug 28 : Stating that the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) is committed to peace, prosperity and development in Jammu and Kashmir, Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in Prime Minister’s Office Thursday said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants to win the hearts and minds of people of Jammu and Kashmir. Talking to Kashmir News Service (KNS) on the sidelines of the function here Dr Jitendra Singh said, “BJP is committed to peace, progress and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister wants peace, developments in Jammu and Kashmir. Our motive is never the politics of gain or loss, but winning the hearts of the people,” he said. Jitendra Singh further said, “The priority would be given to the State’s development and the party would not discriminate on the basis of caste, creed, language and religion.“We are very much committed for the progress and development of J&K. We want to fight poverty, hunger
and unemployment her. I assure that the BJP don’t discriminate on the basis of caste, creed, language and religion and do not do politics on such issues,” he said. He further said: “I would like to give a message to the people here that the prime minister wants to win the minds and hearts of the people and is serious about the developments of the Jammu and Kashmir State,”. Earlier according to KNS correspondent, Dr Singh while addressing his party workers here hit Congress said that the Congress and other “so-called secular” parties were “creating” a fear that BJP was against the minorities in the country for its political benefits. “Unfortunately development and economic issues have never been the basis of politics here. As far as BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are concerned, a fear was being created that we are against minority. It is the political game plan of the Congress party and the so-called secular parties.
Government of Jammu and Kashmir Department of Microbiology
Sher-I- Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences,Soura, Srinagar, Kashmir Fax No : 0194-2403403 NIT 01 of 2014 Dated: 22.08.2014
Abbreviated Notice Inviting Tenders for supply/installation of followingequipment for the project "Establishment of VRDL at SKIMS"
Sealed tenders affixed with Rs. 6/- Revenue stamp are invited for and on behalf of Governor of Jammu & Kashmir state, through Director, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura, Srinagar from Original Manufacturers/ their Authorized Distributors for supply/installation of following equipment, (equipments approved by Accredited Person (AP) / organizations like CE, FDA, IVD will be preferred), so as to reach the office of the undersigned by or before 20/09/2014 upto 4PM: GroupNomenclature A. Biosafety cabinet B. Laminar air flow C. C02 incubator D. Inverted Microscope E. Centrifuge-Refrigerated high speed F. Liquid Nitrogen Can - 47L capacity G. Liquid Nitrogen Can-33L capacity H. Millipore Positive Pressure Filtration I. Autodaves (Steam Jacketed & Vertical) J. Incubator K. Fluorescent Microscope L. PCR Workstation M. Thermocycler N. Gel electrophoresis equip O. Gel Documentation unit P. Refrigerated Microfuge Q. Electronic pipettes R. Freezer-20°C S. Freezer-80°C T. ELISA Plate Washer U. ELISA Plate Reader V. Unichannel& Multichannel Pipettes W. Pan electronic weighing balance
Qty 01 01 01 01 01 02 01 01 02 01 01 01 01 01 01 01 04 01 01 01 01 As required 01
Tender cost. Rs. 1000/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.800/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/Rs.500/-
EMD Rs.15,000/Rs.6000/Rs.7000/Rs.10000/Rs.6000/Rs.4000/Rs.1000/Rs.10000/Rs.6000/Rs.6000/Rs. 10000/Rs. 500/Rs. 8000/Rs. 7000/Rs. 7000/Rs. 4000/Rs. 7000/Rs. 2000/Rs. 12000/Rs. 4000/Rs. 5000/Rs. 3000/Rs. 2000/-
The detailed NIT containing the specifications and the terms and conditions of supply can be downloaded from the SKIMS Web site www.skims.ac.in . The tendersshould be accompanied by the tender fee & EMD for each equipment detailed above in the shape of bank draft, drawn by or before 20.09.2014 pledged to the Director Finance SKIMS. The technical bids shall be opened on 22/09/2014 at 12.30 PM or any other date convenient to the Institute authorities in presence of the authorized representative of the tenderers who may like to participate in the tender opening. The tenders should be submitted strictly in accordance with the provisions of the detailed NIT. No: SIMS 148 (49) 2014-479 -695-98-d Dated: August 22, 2014
Sd/-Dr. Dalip K Kakru (Principal Investigator) SKIMS
Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Bashir Malik Editor: Shahana Malik Legal Advisor: Syed Riyaz Hussain RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt. Quarters , M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 9419001492, 9797082675
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SRINAGAR | FRIDAY
‘MH370 may have turned south earlier than thought’
Australia said on Thursday the hunt for missing Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 will focus on the southern part of the existing search zone after new information suggested it “may have turned south” earlier than thought. The new detail came after “further refinement” of satellite data and as investigators attempted to map the position of the jet during a failed attempt to contact it earlier in its flight path, deputy prime minister Warren Truss said. “The search area remains the same, but some of the information that we now have suggests to us that areas a little further to the south -- within the search area, but a little further to the south -- are of particular interest and priority in the Lone News Agency Khan far News search area,” he said. phaseKangan of the hunt for the plane, off Agency the westGanderbal coast of AustraGulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora His comments came as Auswhich disappeared on March 8 lia, but a massive air and sea tralia and Malaysia signed Tariq NewsaAgency Hawal Bashirsearch News failed Agency with 239 people on board. toNowhatta find any wreckmemorandum of understandis believed to haveBazar crashed ageNews whileAgency an underwater probe Muzaffar Ali NewsItAgency Alamgari Budshah Lal Chowk ing in Canberra over the next the southern Indian Ocean gave no answers. Abdullah Newsinto Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk
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E x p e r t s have now used technical data to finalise the most likely resting place of the plane deep on the ocean seabed and are preparing for a more intense underwater search, beginning next month. It will focus on an area of ocean measuring 60,000 square kilometres (23,000 square miles). Truss said investigators still believed the aircraft was resting somewhere on the search zone’s seventh arc, where it emitted a final satellite “handshake”.
Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora Bhat News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency Kunzar Dar News Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal Reshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency Pattan Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore An eventful start, quick delivery on ture creation were also in sync with BJP’s Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund some poll promises, opposition throwing poll pledge to revive the economy. Agency G.Mhave Newsalready AgencyanSopore monkey wrench in itsJeelani worksNews and some real Baramulla Several ministries reasons to worry about Narendra Modi nounced some measures areAgency in theHandwara Shah- News Agency Kupwara Sultanand News government’s 100 days in office seen Langate process to do moreSheikh for BJP’s Younis Newshas Agency Newsmanifesto Agency Islamabad several ups and down. promise about a Clean Ganga and a open Reshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way Tral India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi defecation free India.Modi alsoNews kept Agency the Minister for Planning Mr. Ajay Turray Newsfrom Agency Badru News Agency waves after delivering a speech the Tral promise of engaging proactively withBijbehara Sadhotra today informed the Legislaramparts of the Red Rahi Fort in NewAgency Delhi on countries in the neighbourhood News Kulgam Malik Newsinstead AgencyofArwani tive Assembly that Rs 33909 crore have August 15, 2014, to mark country’s being led by big power interests when he Kargil Rahthe News Agency68th Byepass Shaheen News Agency been released as additional funds dur-
BJP manifesto and promises: what’s been done and what’s still on paper
Rs 33909 cr released as additionalities during last 5 fiscals: Sadhotra
All DDCs directed to conduct DDB meetings
Independence Day. From setting up a special investigation team in the black money case to getting Parliament’s approval to replace the collegium system of appointment of judges in higher judiciary with a National Judicial Commission, both promised in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) manifesto, the PM has some reasons to cheer about. If he kept the promise of ending policy paralysis in scrapping the empowered group of ministers and restructuring the Planning Commission, the opening up of defence and railways besides a big push to public-private partnership for infrastruc-
invited leaders of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) countries to his swearing-in ceremony and made his maiden foreign visit as the PM to Bhutan. But, higher rates of inflation and corruption – the two central themes of his poll campaign and part of BJP’s manifesto – are yet to see a major change from the past. Addressing these issues – up to the level of people’s satisfaction – remains Modi’s biggest challenge. Not much has been done to address the aspiration of the “neo-middle class” – BJP’s new target group – and poll promises like educational scholarship.
No welfare scheme for urban women abandoned: Kichloo Minister of State for Housing and Home Mr. Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo informed the Legislative Assembly that there is no separate scheme for the urban women implemented by the department which has been abandoned. He said the benefit is provided to the urban women under different components of SISRY Scheme.Replying to a question by Mrs. Bimla Luthra, the Minister said that all welfare schemes meant for Women Empowerment are being implemented in letter and spirit, adding that in this regard government is committed to provide all possible assistance to the women for their empowerment. He said the scheme implemented through Housing Department for the purpose is being implemented without any disparity for empowerment of women.
414478 beneficiaries provided relief under NSAP, ISSS: Sakina
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 28: Minister for Social Welfare, Ms. Sakina Itoo informed the House that under NSAP and ISSS relief has been provided to 414478 beneficiaries in the State.The Minister was replying to a question by Mr. Devinder Singh Rana in the House today. She further informed that during the current financial year an amount of Rs. 86.76 crore and Rs. 42.23 crore stands released in favour of the implementing agencies for disbursement of pension to the approved beneficiaries under ISSS and NSAP respectively.
ing last 5 fiscals to the districts under District Plan in the State. Replying to a question by Ch. Zulfikar Ali, the Minister informed that in this regard additional funds of Rs 9704 crore released during 2009-10, Rs 13754 crore during 2010-11, Rs 5856 crore during 2011-12, Rs 1382 crore during the 2012-13 and Rs 3211 crore during 2013-14 under district sector. He said that additionalities to various districts are released on demands projected by the District Development Board members, devel-
opmental requirements on ground, completion of critical ongoing projects etc. He also gave detailed account of the projects taken up and completed by additional funds released by the government in these years. The Minister said that State Annual Plan for current fiscal has been approved at Rs 7300 crore. He said, however, the annual scheme of financing is yet to be finalized by the Centre. The Minister said that in order to ensure that developmental activities are not hampered, the State Government has already authorized utilization of 50 percent plan allocation for ongoing approved works only out of its own resources. He said that the Planning and Development Department has also advised the DDCs to conduct District Development Board meetings to finalize the District Plans. Legislators Mr. Abdul Rehman Veeri and Hakeem Yaseen raised supplementaries.
Development of tourist infrastructure under LBDDA gets focused attention: Mir 3-Mega tourist circuits on anvil in the State SRINAGAR, AUGUST 28- Minister for Tourism Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir today informed the Legislative Assembly that the Government has taken several initiatives to explore the tourism potential besides Upgradation of infrastructure facilities at tourism spots in the State. Replying to the supplementaries raised by some members to the main question by Advocate Abdul Haq today in the House, the Minister said that 22 Development Authorities have been set
up in the State, with the purpose to boost tourism in every potential area. The Minister said that LolabBangus-Drangyari Development Authority has been set up under which tourist infrastructure worth crore of rupees has been completed besides focused attention was given to potential spots in the area. He said that development of Bangus valley was the ultimate target of the government as the valley possesses huge tourism potential. The Tourism Minister said that three Mega Tourism projects worth Rs 50 crore each have been already submitted to the Centre for funding which include creation of sufi circuit in Kashmir, pilgrim circuit in
Vibrant mechanism put in place for monitoring developmental works: Gurezi SRINAGAR, AUGUST 28-Minister of State for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi Thursday said that the Government has put in place a vibrant mechanism for monitoring the developmental initiatives undertaken for the sustained development of the Srinagar city. The Minister was interacting with scores of deputations including deputation from Sonawar Constituency who called on him here.Mr. Gurezi said that the Government has initiated scores of measures for the development of the Srinagar city in sectors like housing, PDD, PHE and others. He said requisite facilities have been created for the people and they should actively involve themselves in the implementation of the welfare schemes undertaken and in day to day governance. The Minister said that the Government under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is taking keen interest in resolving the issues concerning the youth of the State. He said several
“It remains on the seventh arc -- that is, there is a very, very strong view that this aircraft will be resting on the seventh arc,” he said.It is believed to have crashed into the southern Indian Ocean far off the west coast of Australia, but a massive air and sea search failed to find any wreckage while an underwater probe gave no answers. Experts have now used technical data to finalise the most likely resting place of the plane deep on the ocean seabed and are preparing for a more intense underwater search, beginning next month. It will focus on an area of ocean measuring 60,000 square kilometres (23,000 square miles). Truss said investigators still believed the aircraft was resting somewhere on the search zone’s seventh arc, where it emitted a final satellite “handshake”.
measures have been taken for creating job opportunities for educated unemployed youth during last five and a half years.Responding to the demands put forth by the deputation of
Sonawar Constituency, the Minister said J&K Mathematical Institute has been sanctioned by the present Government and land has been acquired by the Higher Education department at Khimber village for this purpose. He said the construction work on the project will be started soon. He said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was himself interested in establishing this Institute at Khimber village to benefit the students of this educationally backward area. Moreover, Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Lone actively worked for the established this Institute at this place.He said this prestigious Institute will provide professional educational facilities to the students of adjoining areas including ChakDara, Faqir Gujri, Mulnar, Marinder Bagh, Mufti Bagh, Harwan, Chattrihama, Burzagama and Syed Pora-Dara.The Minister sought cooperation of the people to strengthen the hands of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, whom he described as a leader with a clear vision about the future development and progress of the State.
Jammu and Budhist circuit in Ladakh. He said these circuits would benefit almost all potential areas of these regions. He said the government is seriously thinking of developing Tosamaidan which also has huge potential.The Tourism Minister said that three Mega Tourism projects worth Rs 50 crore each have been already submitted to the Centre for funding which include creation of sufi circuit in Kashmir, pilgrim circuit in Jammu and Budhist circuit in Ladakh. He said these circuits would benefit almost all potential areas of these regions. He said the government is seriously thinking of developing Tosamaidan which also has huge potential.
DPR for constructing tunnel on Mughal road submitted to Centre: Wani
Minister for R&B, Mr. Abdul Majid Wani informed the House that 8 km tunnel would be constructed on the Mughal road to make it a all weather route and reduce the distance by 12 km, the Detailed Project Report has already been submitted to the Planning Commission/Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for accord of approval and funding. Replying to a question by Dr. Shahnaz Ganai, the Minister further said that the proposal for feasibility studies, preparation of Preliminary Project Report (PPR) and DPR for construction of tunnel on Mughal road at an estimated cost of Re. 2.76 crore and Rs. 25 crore respectively has been submitted. However, in the meanwhile department has initiated the work of feasibility study and preparation of PPR for construction of tunnel through the consultant M/S SMEC Pvt. Ltd. The agency has completed nearly 50% of the job assigned. He further said that there are some road projects where the progress was slow and not completed by the concerned contractors within the stipulated time frame. As such their contracts are terminated and balance work taken up after inviting fresh tenders at the risk and cost of original contractors. Jahangir Mir and Yashpaul Sharma raised supplementaries to the question.
29. 08 .2014
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
Don’t discount your ability to be extremely resourceful if you need to be, Aries. If you don’t have everything you need or all of the required information, take time to think. Who can you ask? What places can you access? Who might know where you can find what you need? Rather than panic because the pieces aren’t all there, instead make a list of contacts and go for it. Trust in yourself.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Try not to let today’s blues get you down, Taurus. While it’s true that some days can seem to drag on, the busier you are the faster time will pass. Get down to finishing any work still before you and then make plans for tonight. If there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, not only will things seem to speed up but you’ll feel better knowing it’s coming.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Dare to be different, Gemini. It can be so easy to fall into a drill. Sleeping at the same time, eating at the same time, wearing the same style, and going about work the same way day after day. Before you know it, you feel like you’re in a rut. The only way to get away from this is to make a decision to break free by doing something unique. Try a new haircut. Wear colors that are unusual for you. If the need is there, consider a new career. Pursue expansion.
Cancer June 22-July 22
If your lifestyle is considerably different than that of others, resist feeling self-conscience about it today, Cancer. Try to remember that you chose the life you have for specific reasons. Even if you’ve come to a point where you’re considering a change, there’s no need to feel badly, ashamed, or embarrassed about where you are now. Everyone has to make his or her own way. If this conforms to the norm, that’s fine. If it doesn’t, that’s fine, too.
Leo
July 23-August 22 An enhanced feeling of determination could motivate you today, Leo. Finish the things that aren’t complete and make some plans for this evening. Don’t hesitate to take on something that feels complicated or big. Chances are you’ll be able to handle most anything and it will feel great when it’s finished. Enjoy your day by making the most of opportunity.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Feeling the effects of today’s energies, Virgo? Take heart if this is the case, because the end of the tunnel isn’t as far away as it seems. Do your best to take things one step at a time and see about making some plans for a little fun this evening. Get together with friends or take in a movie. Help yourself feel better by staying busy and focused and follow up with some recreation. Before you know it, the aspect will pass and you’ll be back to normal.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Consider making some plans for a vacation or short getaway, Libra. Looking forward to something fun can make even the toughest of days far easier to handle. You’ll be amazed how much you can manage when there’s an end in plain sight. Your entire attitude can lighten. So take the bull by the horns and create an incentive for yourself. Do something special to reward the hard work you do day after day.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 Don’t judge someone if he or she has a different lifestyle than what you consider to be OK, Scorpio. You probably lean toward the traditional, yet not everyone feels this way about relationships, working, or lifestyle. While it may seem impossible to understand and even frighten you, try not to be too harsh on those you deem odd. You’d be better off using that energy to keep your own life on track.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Friends seeking advice or a shoulder to cry on could be plentiful today, Sagittarius. You’re one of best people to give them the support and care they need. Just be sure that you don’t give so much to others that you don’t have anything left for yourself. True friendship is about sharing and the exchange of problems and help. Running yourself down will leave you in a place where you aren’t going to be much help to anyone.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Getting through today shouldn’t pose too big a problem for you, Capricorn. You may feel a huge second wind that can give you the drive and determination to see your chores and projects through. Make some plans for this evening, such as getting together with friends or taking in an event that really intrigues you. Until then, go about your tasks bit by bit. You’ll get things finished before you know it.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Working within boundaries and restrictions could really get to you today, Aquarius. Yours is an independent spirit and your best achievements are often born of doing things your own way. Yet like it or not, we all have to follow guidelines and rules. Do your best to follow suit and finish what needs to be done. Afterward, you may find more freedom to act independently without consequences. Exercise patience and diligence as needed today.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 Chances are that you’ll feel upbeat and positive today, Pisces. Consider sharing this energy with those around you who are feeling less than content. Your attitude can have a profound effect on friends, partners, spouses, and children. Even neighbors and extended family can pick up on your spirit without you even realizing it. Share your optimism with everyone you can today. If you see someone hurt or angry.
EDITORIAL OPINION EDITORIAL/// OPINION OPINION EDITORIAL Quote of the day Quote of the day Trust yourself, you know more than you thinkday you do. With the new comes new
Unparliamentary happenings in Benjamin Spock strength and new thoughts. LegislaturesEleanor Roosevelt unfortunate Prime Minister’s
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he unparliamentary scenes Coalition or witnessed forscheme past some scholarship time in Lok Sabha,Rajya Confrontation! Sabha and state Assemblies is in
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eeping view, the no way helping the in cause of these state of parhepresent centrally sponhigh institutions which are exalyzed administrasored scholarship pected to be most respected in tion, the scheme hascoalition proved the society. It has become routine govt. without to be a disaster for now that even on pity mattersany the hesitation should resign the thousands of stumembers of legislatures barge so in that the day today work can dents of Jammu&Kashmir the well of the House, break chairs who went study in different run any hurdles, andwithout audio to system and evenhitchscufeducational institutions of the es and confrontation. No policy fle with each other. These institucountry but have so farbyto been decision is being taken coations which are considered be a denied the amount of scholarlition govt. as their differencguiding force for the whole society ship. Some of every them haverings rees up on issue and arecreep now becoming wrestling portedly been everything which comesfrom beand all sorts of expelled unparliamentary these institutions for want of fore cabinet is stalled, delayed things including abusive language money and other some them,against postponed or scrapped. The each ishave the order of selves returned back to state Congress and N.C have adopted the day. One fails to understand particularly valley leaving offensive and not alas to whatpostures message we do are giving their studies mid way. This low each other to take credit of tounfortunate our young generation andthan what is that more any good work for thatbehind matexamples we areor leaving five thousand students have ter ofto a routine work. hapEvfor even them follow. What been effected by the non imery dayinthey fire solos yesterday on each pened the parliament plementation of the scheme other andunfortunate use such a filthy and is really andwith unbewhich was announced a abusive language that one feels coming of the parliamentarians lot of fan-fare. Mostare of the leadashamed of. There various who are representing lacsas offrom peoers from centre as well reasons for this are situation ple. Their actions shamingand the state publicized themselves to one of nation the reasons isare that the whole and they wasting the maximum taking the presicredpresent State Congress precious time , money and energy it of the scheme. It is nottoonly dent, originally belonged N.C of the country. Billions ofproved rupees this scheme which has whom he on betrayed when N.C are spent elections afterofevery very costly for the people the was a coalition partner with five years and millions on the exstate. There are various other B.J.P in centre andby histhese vote law in penditure incurred schemes which have either Lok Sabha resulted in the fall makers which is allorhard earned been left mid-way have not of B.J.Pofgovt. He is the most money the general masses of got the desired results because hated personHow in N.C.and B.J.Pis this country. unfortunate of the bureaucratic delays and and it is this reason that co-orthe story of their activities which hurdles caused in their impledination committee under his in no way help to mitigate the mentation. The scholarship chairmanship takes elect any problemsintroduced of thenever people scheme bywho central positive leap forward. Another them was with a lots of hopes and asgovt. definitely a positive person who is never liked by pirations. These should step forward to members provide better N.C and being the realize that theythe havesenior not tomost show education for students of in state congress and presenttheir muscle power in the Legisthe state who had no resourcly leader of have opposition in Rajya latures and not to brow beat es otherwise to continue their Sabha, thought be a hurdle others is by creating scenes studies within ortounruly outside the in the cordial relations of N.C and pandemonium. In fact, they state. It is a matter of concern and Congress. Conshould attend to National the has problems of that this scheme fallen ference the spent oldest political the people and their energy prey to is vested interests who party in J&K which has domin solving them. It is better if sabotage it and made it a they toinance in several areas and show patience and exhibit their tal failure. The new central still holdsand ground. Congress in maturity useduty the precious government is bound time theythat spent inalmost Legislatures for comparison has negligito see this scheme is the betterment of the whole socible presence in the valley but not wasted and the mileage ety virtue which so expects to behave by offar itsisthem fifteen memachieved encashed to in that way. The pandemonium bers in legislative assembly it the success of the scheme so and unruly scenes do not help in has become a coalition partner that those students who have anybehaves kind of contribution towards but as if strategy of been deprived offitsits benefits the society. It is not only the opstalling coalition can in true sense aredecisions not subjectposition but also the ruling class wintothe sympathy of the peoed frustration which would which should try to defuse the ple. Perhaps thethem partyto does ultimately lead fallnot in situation and show that they are know that its particuthe hands of strategy those elements parliamentarians in real sense and larly regarding of vacant which are alienfilling to the interests they responsibilposts instate the state is going to efof theunderstand andtheir the country. ities and duties. For the last about fect adversely its performance Whether the scheme has been three most of previous thewhich time and in theyears coming polls it introduced by the or state legislatures has been wasted may find verynoslippery. The present govt., doubt it is a in unparliamentary things which confrontation between the two people friendly and students result in adjournments most of allies willscheme, be detrimental to imthe friendly hence, the time. Itfor be and in thewill fitness of interests ofwill both defiperative the central govt. theremove things if all public representatives nitely strengthen the prospects to bottle-necks in perform their duties in a responsiof B.J.P and P.D.P in the comits implementation. ble, serious and mature way. ing elections.
Daily Daily Daily Zabarwan Times
ZabarwanTimes Times Srinagar, Zabarwan Tuesday 12 August 2014
Srinagar, Thursday 20 February 2014 Srinagar, Friday 29 August 2014
Virtual Clusters T he Virtual Clusters concept consists of a dedicated Web portal to be hosted by the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). It provides an opportunity for the following stakeholders to register and join. · MSME’s and their business units. · Academic institutions (engineering colleges, polytechnics, ITI’s as well as MBA colleges and design institutes). · Various experts, consultants and trainers who can provide sector specific help to MSME’s. · Banks and other financial institutions who are interested in providing financing to MSME’s. · Various governmental organizations, NGO’s, and volunteering executives who have a special interest in the MSME sector.
The main stakeholders in this initiative are the small business units. The role of the other stakeholders is to help the business units grow rapidly in the areas of increasing the sales and the profitability. The Virtual Cluster concept is being conceived such that small businesses belonging to different sectors can coexist with their fellow enterprises on a web portal and realize the benefits of focused and targeted networking. Web based Virtual Clusters for different sectors can be created rapidly thereby responding to the needs of the stakeholders quickly. What is the difference between current physical clusters and virtual clusters? The current “physical clusters” scheme requires the MSME units to be physically located in one geographic area. It also requires time and significant resources to build and maintain the physical infrastructure. Virtual Clusters on the other hand remove the need to maintain a physical presence in these regions. Small Businesses/ Enterprises can be located anywhere in India and yet be able to realize all the benefits that units in the physical clusters now realize. What are the Benefits to various stakeholders? Business enterprises · Awareness of various opportunities such as government tenders and export opportunities. · Training in new technologies that will improve their operations and reduce costs. · New product development opportunities.
· Help from students and faculty from nearby academic institutions without having to pay for such help. Such help can be in areas such as quality improvement, cost reduction, new product designs, etc. · Targeted help from consultants and experts specific to particular business sectors. Students Studies have shown that a large number of students are not able to get meaningful jobs after completing their studies since they lack the exposure to solving real life problems. Through the Virtual Clusters web site and other associated activities we are aiming to address this problem by linking various academic institutions to businesses. As a part of their industry internship program students can help implement a number of systems at the business units without these businesses having to employ outside experts to provide such services. Consultants and other practicing professionals Professionals who have expertise in specific business sectors will be able to quickly reach businesses in that sector who are registered through the Virtual Clusters web portal. This will make the process far more efficient for both the parties. Banks and other financial institutions Many banks and other financial institutions offer special funding packages to small businesses. Through the Virtual Clusters initiative they will be able to offer sector specific funding packages rather than a standard offering in which the small businesses have to fit in. This will enable banks to specialize in sectoral funding and simultaneously spread their risks across a larger number of companies in a given sector. Businesses will benefit by saving time and having ready access to better suited funding options. Central and State Government organizations A number of central and state level organizations offer many programs targeted at the small business community. The Virtual Clusters portal will make it easier for policy makers and other implementing agencies to reach these businesses quickly and more efficiently. NGO’s and Volunteer advisors As in case of governmental organizations many regional NGO’s and volunteer advisors can reach MSMEs that are registered in the Virtual Clusters web site more effectively. Pilot Project Virtual Clusters model is being tested through a pilot that will first focus on businesses involved
in the Food Processing Industry. This includes companies that make food products and those that make equipment used in food processing. The concept will then be readily and rapidly extended to a number of other sectors. Examples of food products Packaged honey and various honey based products Dry fruits Saffron Spices Various types of nuts: cashews, peanuts, walnuts, etc. Juices Herbs Biscuits and other baked products Etc. Examples of food processing machinery · Pasteurizing machinery · Baking ovens · Spice grinders · Packaging machinery · Juice making machinery etc. After getting some experience with the pilot project for a few months the Virtual Clusters web site will be opened up to a number of other sectors. How will the Virtual Clusters website and the initiative be administered? NIESBUD, a training arm of MSME Ministry will administer the Virtual Clusters web site and will pro actively perform the following activities: · Work with bankers and various stakeholders within the government in the best interest of the MSME’s. · Survey the needs of the Food processing sector and organizing the availability of required technologies and · facilitating specialized training in the application of such technologies. · Work with the purchasing arms of the various government departments and PSU’s to assess their purchase requirements that have been reserved for purchasing from the MSME’s. · Work with the academic institutions to review their experiences and help fine tune the process as needed. · Monitor web site usage and suggest any changes that might be necessary to enhance overall user experience. · Anything else that needs to be done to make the initiative a strong success at an early date. · Organize a package of software applications that will be of benefit to MSME’s. · Train academic institutions and MSME’s in the use of such software applications.
Regulator for the Housing Sector
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he Cabinet recently approved the real estate regulation and development bill which provides for putting in place a regulator for the housing sector in the country with a view to bringing transparency to the sector. The regulator will oversee the functioning of the sector which unfortunately has been most opaque in its dealings. The bill, aimed at regulating the sector which is beset with multiple problems, is therefore a welcome step which has been long overdue. The bill provides that the builder whose project is coming up on an area of 1000 Sq. metres or more will have to register with the regulator. The Agents, commonly known as property dealers, too will have to register themselves with the regulator and make public all the relevant information. The prospective house owners in the country have been facing lots of problems in the process of acquiring a dwelling unit. They are never told the status of the project advertised with regard to the mandatory clearances from different agencies. Projects are launched without obtaining such clearances leading to litigations and harassment for the consumer. There are also cost overruns and often inordinate delays in handing over the dwelling units to the consumers. Be-
sides, there are hidden costs which the consumer comes to know only at the time of taking over the possession. Not the least important is the confusion sought to be created by the builders with regard to the unit area. Instead of mentioning the carpet area--the actual area of a dwelling unit which one uses- the builders sell the vague super area which includes all the common areas. To deal with such problems the bill provides for a number of measures. For instance no project can be launched, in fact even publicized, before all the necessary clearances for the project are obtained. Any violation of this provision through a misleading advertisement will lead to imposition of a penalty on the builder and if the offence is repeated for the second time, a jail term up to 3 years. The builder will have to put on his website all the relevant details about this. Similarly, in case of inordinate delay in handing over the possession as per the agreement, the builder will have to make full refund of the money to the consumer along with interest. The bill makes it mandatory for the builder to sell the unit according to the carpet area and not the super area as is being done now. To prevent builders from diverting funds collected for one project to other projects the bill provides
that 70 percent of the funds raised for a particular project have to be put in a different account and used for the construction of that project only. All this, indeed is going to bring transparency, accountability and professionalism to the sector which will enhance its credibility and bring some relief to the house buyers. But the question is whether this will be enough to deal with the massive housing problem the country is facing? Two things need to be given immediate attention if the bill has to serve the desired purpose. First, since the clearances have to be given by various government agencies, it is important that they too are brought under its purview. Second, the regulator is proposed to be only for the housing sector. The commercial sector has been left out for the time being. One hopes that this sector too will be brought under the purview of the bill sooner than later. Alongside, steps need to be taken to reform the sector to meet the massive housing demand in the county. The land use provisions and Floor Space Index (FSI), need to be given a fresh look. Better land use is the need of the hour in view of the huge shortfall in the housing field. Single window system needs to be given a push to avoid delays.
Growing urbanization, a growing middle class and migratory population is putting additional burden on the demand for housing in the country. It is therefore imperative that in addition to regulating the sector the supply side is also strengthened. Housing is one sector which gives a push to many other sectors like steel and iron, cement etc. It also generates employment at various levels. It thus plays a major role in the economic development, particularly at a time when the economy is facing a slowdown. The bill envisages a well structured grievance disposal system. There will be an Appellate Tribunal to adjudicate disputes which will be headed by a sitting or a retired judge. There will also be a National Advisory Council headed by the Housing minister to advise the regulator on crucial matters. That should take care of adopting a fair approach with regard to all stakeholders involved in the sector. Since land and property is a state subject, cooperation from the state governments is of utmost importance to make the bill a success. One hopes this cooperation will be forthcoming in the desired measure, as it is as much in the interests of the states to regulate the housing sector as it is for the Central government.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer Disclaimer Disclaimer :: The The contents contents and and comments comments appearing appearing in in any any article article published published in in this this paper paper are are purely purely the the personal personal opinion opinion of of the the writer writer