C M Y K
THURSDAY
30 January | 2014 | 28 Rabi-Al-Awwal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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For
http://www.zabarwantimes.com
VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 30 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)
Jus
tice
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
Tax Concessions to Agri sector will continue to make it more remunerative, lucrative: Rather
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Became star in African domestic T20 tournament
Bowlers responsible for series loss
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LA Panel for expediting construction of 10 MW HPP Achoora
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NC-Congress deadlock ‘over’
Transfers, postings in Information Deptt Jammu, Jan 29: The Government today ordered transfers and postings of District Information Officers in Information Department today. According to an order issued today, Tanveer-ul-Majid, District Information Officer, Anantnag has been transferred and posted as District Information Officer, Ramban whileas Ashwani Hansa, District Information Officer, Ramban has been transferred and posted as District Information Officer, Udhampur. Muazzam Ali, awaiting orders of posting in Information Department has been posted as District Information Officer, Ganderbal. He shall also look after the charge of District Information Officer, Bandipora. Ms. Indu Jamwal, KAS awaiting orders of posting See Transfers On Page 11..
Protesters torch a car Srinagar, Jan 29 : Some miscreants torched a car when it hit a pedestrian in Budgam. Police has registered a case and launched a manhunt for the miscreants. A Santro car bearing registration number JK03C/8011 hit and injured a pedestrian Ghulam Mohammad Mala resident of Sebdan at Sebdan, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Budgam. Some persons were protesting against PDD for transformer damage nearby. Among the protesters few miscreants attacked the car and set it ablaze. The car was damaged in the incident. Police has registered a case and manhunt has been launched to nab the miscreants. (KNS)
Inside story NC-Congress playing cat and rat game
‘Ganai Committee recommendations a total fraud’: Bhim Singh Srinagar, Jan 28: Taking a strong exception to the unwarranted delay in introduction and implementation of Crop Insurance Scheme (CIS) in the state, CPI (M) State Secretary Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has said the scheme will save the fruit growers/agriculturists in the event of losses suffered due to natural calamities. After meeting a delegation of horticulturists and agriculturists at his residence,
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On Edit Page Another Forgotten Lake Like all other lakes in the valley, there is one more lake called Anchar which is breathing its last, due to negligence of government and the people living around this vital lake. Once upon a time, this lake had abundance of crystal clear water flowing from Dal Lake. Tourists would visit this water body in large numbers and enjoy its Shikara and boat rides. Even the houseboats were used and the tourist would spend nights whether in summer, autumn or winter. But unfortunately, the pristine glory of this lake has been lost due to greed and ignorance of the people who do not realize the importance of water bodies and pollute it for their own conveniences without realizing that they are axing their future with their own hands.
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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:
Mainly dry and cold weather over the State.
FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:
Partly cloudy sky. Maximum &Minimum temperatures will be around 08°C & -02°C respectively.
TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM MINIMUM SUNSET ON(THURSDAY) SUNRISE ON (FRIDAY)
3.7 0C -2.3 0C 06:00PM 07:30 AM
C M Y K
PM inaugurates National Waqf Development Corporation
CSC holds crucial meeting in Jammu
To meet again on Jan 31 Will submit report to Cabinet on Feb 1: Tara Chand Srinagar, Jan 29: A day after the Congress high command directed its state unit in Jammu and Kashmir to cooperate with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Congress leader and deputy chief minister Tara Chand on Wednesday chaired a crucial meeting of Cabinet Sub Committee (CSC) on new administrative units, in Jammu. Talking to KNS, Chand said that the meeting, which took place in state guest house, was conducted in a very cordial atmosphere and all the members agreed to accommodate each others’ viewpoint on the issue. The meeting was attended by all the members of the Committee including three ministers of National Conference—Mohammad Akbar Lone, Mir Saifullah and Ajay Sadhotra. Giving details of the meeting, Chand said that the creation of new administrative units in light of the CSC meetings with people across the state and Dr Beloria
Credit will go to coalition Govt not to NC alone: Sadhotra
Congress wants justice for all 3 regions: Soz Srinagar, Jan 29: Pradesh Congress Committee president Prof Saif-u-Din Soz on Wednesday said that Congress is not averse to creation of new administrative units in the state but in view of certain gaps left in Mushtaq Ganaie report, the Cabinet Sub Committee (CSC) had sought time to fill the same.Talking to KNS, Soz said: “Our party wants See Soz On Page 11..
Srinagar, Jan 29: National Conference senior leader and minister Ajay Sadhotra on Wednesday said there are no differences between Congress and his party and ‘whatever little reservations’ the two parties had visà-vis creation of new administrative units have been amicable sorted out in Cabinet Sub Committee (CSC) meeting that was See Sadhotra On Page 11.. and Mushtaq Ganaie’s reports was discussed threadbare. “We are in favour of creation of new administrative units in the state but we want to ensure that the
untouched and left out areas are accommodated in the proposal,” the deputy chief minister and See Tara On Page 11..
Omar to take final call on continuation of alliance with Congress: Farooq
New Delhi, Jan 29: National Conference President and Union Minister Farooq Abdullah today said Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will take a final call on continuing the alliance with Congress in the State. Responding to a media query on the sidelines of a function in New Delhi, Dr Abdullah said that the party is ready to leave the alliance if situation arises. Sharp differences have emerged in
opment deficit which some minorities suffer from. Refering to recently amended the Waqf Act to bring transparency, the Prime Minister said there are more than 4.9 lakh registered wakf properties in the country with an annual income of about 163 crore rupees. Dr Singh, citing the Sachar Committee estimates, said waqf properties ifare developed properlythat , they could earn an annual income of about 12 thousand crore rupees. Speaking on the occasion, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi warned against communal and See PM On Page 11..
Republic Day celebrations culminate with Beating Retreat at Vijay Chowk
NC-Congress alliance on the issue of creation of new administrative units in the State. Omar Abudullah on the setting up of new administrative unit had on last Friday said that either the Mushtaq Gani Committee Report will have to be adopted or the government will have to go. The Congress alleged that the Gani Committee Report, which has recommended creations of over 900 new administrative units, is biased and people from all districts should first be taken into confidence. Meanwhile, See Farooq On Page 11..
Moderate to heavy snowfall for 5 days from Sunday: MeT
Srinagar, Jan 29: Weatherman Wednesday issued an advisory regarding moderate to heavy snowfall for five days beginning Sunday. The weather system is likely to disrupt air and surface transport in the Valley during the
New Delhi, Jan 29: Unwavering commitment to the protection and promotion of the interests of minorities. Inaugurating the National Waqf Development Corporation in New Delhi, Dr Singh said the corporation established with an authorised share capital of 500 crore rupees will facilitate and mobilize financial resources for starting schools, colleges, hospitals on waqf properties in a transparent manner. He said the Prime Minister's 15 point programme and Multi Sectoral Development Programme are large initiatives focused on removing the devel-
time, it said. “Moderate to heavy snow will occur at most places in Kashmir and Jammu divisions and at many places in Ladakh region,” Director Meteorological See MeT On Page 11..
Jan 29: Republic Day celebrations culminated with the Beating Retreat at Vijay Chowk, this evening. A number of military and massed bands performed with their bagpipes, horns and drums. The ceremony traces its origins to the early 1950s when Major Roberts of Indian Army, indigenously developed the unique ceremony of display by the massed bands.
Rahul’s RTI remark on political parties evokes mixed response in J&K Srinagar, Jan 29: As Indian National Congress (INC) vice president Rahul Gandhi stated that the political parties should be brought under the purview of Right to Information Act (RTI), mainstream political parties had different views pertaining to the issue. Rahul in a detailed TV interview had stated, “I think that political parties should be under RTI if political parties feel, and it's a law that has to be passed in parliament. If political parties unanimously feel that that should be the case then it should be the case.”National Conference (NC) while reacting to the recent statement said that the Political parties are not the part of the government functionaries and that the main motive of RTI is to ensure transparency in the government departments. “It is between the general masses and the government departments, where from the political parties can be brought under the umbrella of the act,” said additional general secretary Sheikh Mustafa Kamal. He stated further that there is already a transparent mechanism in place for the political parties and that there is no need to bring them under RTI purview.”We file our returns to the election commission and the political system here is an open book,” he said, adding, “we are already under the scanner of election commission and no oth-
er act is needed.” When asked that if the parliament passes the bill so that the RTI could get applicable to political parties as well, Kamal said, “It is senseless, why would they do that , how the same is going to help when we are already under the purview of election commission.”State’s main opposition, PDP while terming the idea a welcome step, stated that the party has already voluntarily declared itself under the act. “We have already subjected ourselves to the scrutiny. We provide all the information about our party to anyone who wants it. We have done it ahead of Aam Admi Party (AAP),” said party’s chief spokesman Naeem Akhtar, adding, “we are following it, others should also follow.” The state congress expressing when contacted stated that they abide by the statement of Rahul and that party’s state unit will support every move taken by its high command at Delhi. National Conference (NC) rejecting the idea of bringing political parties under RTI, opposition Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) claimed that it has already declared itself under RTI State’s political mainstream while reacting to the statement of Indian National Congress (INC) vice president Rahul Gandhi said that the political parties should come under RTI, issued. (KNS)
The singing of the National Anthem and the unfurling of the Tricolour signalled the start of a spectacle that held the audience spell-bound for one hour. Indian tunes were the flavour of the ceremony. Out of 21 performances, 18 were composed by Indian musicians. 10 new compositions were played for the first time. The Army played - Jahan Daal Daal Pe
Sone ki Chidiya, Swarnim Desh, Blessing of the God and Dhruv. Other than ‘Abide with Me’ and ‘Sare Jahan Se Accha’, rest of the tunes were played after a gap of six years. Just as people were shuffling to get out of the enclosure, a collective gasp broke out from the audience as the North and South blocks lit See Republic On Page 11..
PDP terms Omar‘s resignation remarks ‘a drama of non-existing heroism’ ‘He could have resigned when Guru was hanged’
Srinagar, Jan 29 (KNS): Commenting over the speculations that chief minister Omar Abdullah will resign if congress fails to submit its report on the creation of new administrative units in the state, Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) Wednesday termed it ‘a hollow threat and a drama to impress people by the non-existent heroism’. “If he (Omar) had moral courage, he had much better reasons to resign earlier,”
said chief spokesman PDP Naeem Akhtar, adding that Omar could have resigned at the time of execution of Afzal Guru. “In 2010 there were more than 120 people killed by his own forces on valley streets, at the time of Shopian and when the case of Haji Yusuf’s killing was surfaced, Omar didn’t resign,” said Naeem. The PDP spokesman added further Omar holds nothing to show as his achievements to the people and it is like sticking to a straw by a drowning man. “They know that there end is See PDP On Page 11..
Rs 3 crore scam surfaces in PHE Handwara Srinagar, Jan 29: The scam of
around three crore rupees surfaced in North Kashmir’s Handwara town, when police raided Public Health Engineering (PHE) office and seized the vital records there. According to the KNS district correspondent, senior engineers and official staff of the division have been called for the questioning into the matter by police. See Handwara On Page 11..
Kamal contests Hard Talk show ‘What has been attributed to me during programme is not true’ Srinagar, Jan 29: Taking strong exception to the statement attributed to him during the Hard Talk show on BBC, National Conference (NC) additional general secretary Shiekh Mustafa Kamal said that he has never stated that the people of Kashmir feel closer to Pakistan than India. “How could have I made the statement of this bizarre nature. I have never said
anything like that,” Kamal told KNS, adding that the statement being attributed to him has no head and tail. During the hard talk show with chief minister Omar Abdullah on BBC at Delhi, Stephen Sackur had asked Omar that Kamal has stated to him that India is an enemy and that more than a year ago; he has stated that People of Kashmir feel closer to Pakistan than India.
“No I don’t think so personally, in my state, as I told you that there are people who want to see their future outside India. You can invite Dr Kamal for the separate interview and should ask him yourself,” replied Omar to the question on the show. Kamal Wednesday said that he has never talked to any BBC See Kamal On Page 11..
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Srinagar, Thursday 30 January 2014
From the front page
Tara the chairman CSC told KNS. The chairman CSC informed KNS that the Committee will meet again on January 31 at 11 am in Jammu to give finishing touches to the report. Informed sources told KNS that the CSC will submit its final report before the state Cabinet scheduled to meet at 2.pm in civil secretariat Jammu on February 1. A senior congress minister, however, attributed the urgency shown by the National Conference to go for implementation of proposal on new administrative units to the electoral interests of the party envisioned for the coming elections. “The CSC was constituted by the chief minister to fill the gaps in the two reports on the subject. If they (NC) were so desirous to create new administrative units, then for what was the CSC constituted?” the Congress minister privy to the details of Wednesday’s CSC meeting told KNS. Sources said that Chand later flew to the national capital to convey details of the meeting to the Congress high command. After attending the meeting, Mir Saifullah also left for Delhi reportedly to meet the National Conference patron Dr Farooq Abdullah who is also in Delhi. Sources revealed that the CSC during its visits across the state has received a demand for creation of 2133 additional administrative units in addition to the creation of 955 units recommended by Mushtaq Ganaie in his report. Pertinently, the state has 2103 existing administrative units at present. (KNS)
Sadhotra held in Jammu on Wednesday. The NC minister said that the CSC meeting was held in a very cordial atmosphere and there were no differences between the two coalition partners. “Whatever little reservations the two parties had, were discussed threadbare and later accommodated to the best of each others’ satisfaction,” he told KNS. Asked about opinions among political circles that chief minister Omar Abdullah wants to take credit for the creations of new administrative units and that is why had given a deadline to the CSC to submit its report, Sadhotra said: “The assertion that chief minister Omar Abdullah will take credit for creation of new administrative units in the state is a misconstrued opinion. It is not the government of National Conference only but we are in coalition with Congress. Any decision taken by the cabinet is not a unilateral decision taken by the NC but the Cabinet includes ministers from the Congress as well. It will be a collective decision and the credit will go to the coalition government not to the NC alone.” He said the chief minister Omar Abdullah shares the opinion of Congress when he says that the proposal on new administrative units should benefit people of all the three regions of the state. “Now we have sorted out the issue in today’s CSC meeting and a report will be forwarded to cabinet on February 1, I don’t think there should be any reason for bitterness from the either side of the two coalition partners,” the NC minister added. (KNS)
Soz to serve the best interests of people of all the three regions of the state on the basis of equity and justice. Having said that, let us wait for the developments as the chairman of the CSC has told press in Jammu that the committee will forward its report to the cabinet likely to take place very soon, let us leave it to the cabinet.” (KNS)
PM divisive forces. Mrs Gandhi said the UPA government has implemented most of the recommendations of the Sachar Committee and it has started yeilding results. Noting that benefits of various programmes sometimes do not reach the targetted group, she emphasised on the need for their effective implemetation. Minority Affairs Minister K Rehman Khan termed the launch of National Wakf Development Corporation as a historic event saying a forty-year dream has been realised. Referring to the strengthened role of Central Waqf Council, he said waqf properties cannot now be sold but only leased. The Prime Minister has asked Minority Affairs Minister K Rehman Khan to meet the petitioner who tried to air his grievances during the function. Dr Singh asked Mr Khan to hear the petitioner's views and consider his petition. Soon after the Prime Minister's speech, an invitee from Delhi stood from his seat and urged Dr Singh for effective implementation of already announced schemes like 15-point programme. He was whisked away by the security personnel.
Farooq Congress leadership met in New Delhi last night to end the stalemate and save the alliance. The meeting was held at the residence of AICC General Secretary in-charge of the state Ambika Soni. Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, State PCC chief Saifuddin Soz, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand and state Congress ministers including G H Mir, G A Mir and Rigzin Zora attended the meeting. The coalition partners National Conference and congress are engaged in in-party consultations over the standoff. He adds that more than present standoff future electoral calculations are weighing heavily in in-party consultations.
MeT Department Sonam Lotus said in the advisory issued as a fresh Western Disturbance is likely to affect the state from 2 to February 6. “Few places particularly along South Kashmir and Pripanjal mountain range may receive very heavy snowfall. This system is likely to move in East-North-East ward direction,” the weatherman said as per a statement issued here to GNS. “This system is likely to disrupt surface and air transport systems of the state,” it said, adding, “During above period day temperatures may fall by 5-6o cel and night temperature may rise 2-3 deg Cel.” Meanwhile, Srinagar witnessed a further drop in night temperature, recording a low of minus 2.3 degrees Celsius against minus 0.3 degrees Celsius yesterday. Pahalgam, the world famous hill station in south Kashmir, was the second coldest in Valley, recording a minimum of minus 12.3 degrees Celsius against minus 10.4 degrees Celsius on previous night. Qazigund, the gate way town of Kashmir, and its neighboring Kokernag had a minimum of minus 7.0 and minus 9.3 degrees Celsius respectively, the MeT official said. Gulmarg, the world famous tourist resort in north Kashmir was the second coldest place in the valley. The hill resort, teeming with tourists, recorded a low of minus 11.2 degrees Celsius against minus 11.0 degrees Celsius yesterday. Frontier Kupwara district in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 2.1 degrees Celsius against 0.1 degrees Celsius yesterday, the MeT office said. Ladakh region continued to reel under intense cold with Kargil recording season’s coldest night. The mercury settled at a low of minus 20.4 degrees Celsius, the weatherman added. (GNS)
PDP near and in this desperation, they are trying to shake the foundations of the state.” Akhtar stated further that NC and Congress is at present through the issue of new administrative units, trying to show to their respective constituencies that they are their saviors and champions.
Zabarwan Times
Republic up with yellow light, providing a be-fitting ending to the grandeur associated with Republic Day.
Handwara It has been also informed that the police sent its detailed initial report of investigation to the Director General of Police (DGP). The minister of state for PHE, Nazir Gurezi while claiming that the high level team has been deputed to investigate into the matter on official level, the minister assured further that the Chief Engineer PHE Kashmir division has already been intimidated to submit the report at the earliest. The reports informed further that a local area Sarpanch requested police to investigate into the matter of money laundering wherein crores have been disbursed on the mane of non-existent works. the Sarpanch namely Ghulam Mohammad Mir also wrote to CM and when the matter was brought in the notice of DGP, he shot the letter to Superintendent of Police (SP) Handawara on April 13, 2013 under number RQ366. The DGP asked SP to investigate the matter and submit the report to his office. The police during its initial findings, asked the executive engineer PHE to assist police into the probe. But he paid no heed to the requests. It was learnt from reliable sources that the police got major inputs that around 6 people including some engineers, contractors and office clerks of the department have disbursed around two crore and eighty lakh rupees from the state exchequer on the mane of works that still remain non-existent. Police on January 28 raided the PHE office Handwara and seized the vital documental evidences. The police sources stated that the vouchers and bills that have been cleared by the department are fake in nature and that on the name of supplying safe drinking water to the Handwara inhabitants, around three crore rupees have been disbursed illegally. (KNS)
Kamal correspondent and has never issued any statement wherein he has advocated for Pakistan. “We are working under the constitution and accept the same. We cannot make the irresponsible statements.” However, Kamal stated that there are the sections of people in valley who believe that Kashmir should merge with Pakistan and oppose its accession with the Indian union. “You know who they are. We are not among them and we cannot echo what they say.” (KNS)
Transfer in Information Department has been posted as District Information Officer, Kathua whileas Nisar Ahmad Wani, awaiting orders of posting in Information Department has been posted as District Information Officer Anantnag. In addition he shall also look after the charge of District Information Officer, Kulgam. Anoop Kumar, awaiting orders of posting in Information Department has been posted as District information Officer, Doda whileas Ms. Ashima Iqbal, awaiting orders of posting in Information Department, has been posted as District Information Officer, Rajouri. In addition she shall also after the charge of District Information Officer, Poonch. Farukh Nasir Paul, awaiting orders of posting in Information Department has been posted as Field Publicity Officer, Jammu whileas Ms. Rehana Tabasum, awaiting orders of posting in Information Department has been posted in the Directorate of Information. Waqar Talib, awaiting orders of positing in Information Department has been posted as District Information Officer, Shopian. In addition he shall also look after the charge of District Information Officer, Pulwama. (GNS)
NC-Congress playing cat and rat game ‘Ganai Committee recommendations a total fraud’: Bhim Singh Jammu, Jan 29: Panthers Party Patron, Professor Bhim Singh Wednesday said that National Conference and Congress leaders in the state have started playing cat and rat game only to befool the people and divert their attention about the corruption, authoritarian rule, illegal detentions and loot of the state exchequer in their five years’ rule in Jammu and Kashmir. “Having realized that the people in Ladakh, Kashmir Valley and Jammu Pradesh have understood their joint loot plans and shall kick them out in the forthcoming elections, both for the Assembly and Lok Sabha, they have started playing docudrama in the state in the name creating so-called and illegal administrative units in the state,” Singh said in a statement to CNS. Prof Bhim Singh accused the Congress-NC Government for playing fraud with the youth and fresh recruits in the state by denying equal wages and regular salaries to the new recruits. He said that 25000 boys working full time in the police as SPOs are paid
Final year results in first week of February
Srinagar, Jan 29: The controller examinations of University of Kashmir Wednesday said that the results of final year annual 2013 will be declared in the first week of February. “We are working on it and I hope the results will be out in the first week of next month,” Prof Abdul Salaam Bhat told GNS, adding that the results will be declared, probably, on 04 or05 February. Pertinently, speculations about the declaration of the final year result were rife from past few days.
just Rs.100/- a day whereas thousands of highly educated youth are engaged as contractual employees with a meager salary of a daily wager. He said that the Govt. should have regularized all SPOs, all contractual employees and filled thousands of vacancies in the Govt. departments instead of floating illegal units without authority of law. Prof Bhim Singh defined Ganai Committee recommendations on new units as a total fraud with the people of J&K and a dangerous proposition to browbeat the Central Government. Prof. Bhim Singh said that Jammu Pradesh which has double the area as compared to the Kashmir Valley deserved a fair and equitable share in every sector and developmental works in the State. Prof. Bhim Singh has called on youth and students to challenge this fraudulent proposal of the Chief Minister and urge the Governor to dismiss the corrupt, criminal and authoritarian government to save the people of J&K from further death and destruction. (CNS)
‘Hepatitis B, C outbreak cause of unhygienic medical practices’ Srinagar Jan 29: Doctors Association Kashmir Wednesday said that private hospitals in Kashmir are minting money by injudicious and unethical medical practices which are criminal. They are looting people by charging them with hefty sums for consultation, procedures and surgeries as there are no regulations or guidelines for private hospitals. In a statement issued to GNS, President DAK Dr Nisar ul Hassan said that this is unfortunate that government has licensed these private hospitals despite lack of infrastructural facilities thus endangering precious lives.”DAK demands closure of all those private hospitals that lack infrastructure and skilled people to cater medical and surgical emergencies”. “Private hospitals in Kashmir risk patients’ lives because of lack of infrastructural facilities to cater medical and sur-
gical emergencies. Majority of private hospitals are without basic and advanced life support measures”, he said, adding that no private hospital has Accident and Emergency unit which is mandatory for every hospital without which a hospital is like a “boat without an oar”. He said the private hospitals lack intensive care units, ventilators, proper oxygen delivery system and proper heating system. These private hospitals are without modern diagnostic facilities like CT scan and I. The private hospitals deal with obstetric patients without neonatal intensive care units exposing fragile babies to risk. Even the life saving drugs for various emergencies is not available in private hospitals. “Apart from lack of infrastructural facilities, private hospitals lack skilled people. They are without neonatologists and
Bollywood acting as imperialistic tool: Hurriyat Conference (G) Srinagar, Jan 29: Accusing New Delhi of using film industry to justify, what it said, “her military occupation of Kashmir,” Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Geelani Wednesday said that Bollywood never portrayed the pain of Kashmir. “Most of the films made on Kashmir are used by India as a tool to justify its military occupation of Kashmir,” a statement issued to GNS by the spokesman of the pro-freedom amalgam said while commenting on the ongoing Bollywood shooting in Kashmir. “Never has there been any film made which would have depicted the real pain, sufferings and miseries of people of Kashmir or addressed the aspirations of Kashmiris,” it added. The statement said that people of Kashmir have always proved hospitable and wel-
comed outsiders. “Nevertheless, the films made on Kashmir have always been used to spread negative propaganda against the people of Kashmir and tarnish their image,” the statement added. The statement said that India was using multi-pronged strategy “to strengthen and justify its military occupation on Kashmir.” “Unfortunately, Bollywood is helping and playing its part in all possible ways to realize this vicious objective,” it said. The statement said that though the Bollywood is known for highlighting social, political and other issues of society in India, in Kashmir its position changes completely. “In Kashmir, Bollywood also acts to safe guard the so-called national interests and acts as a tool of imperialism,” the statement said. (GNS)
Promoted Dy SPs still working
Srinagar, Jan 29: At least 45 Inspectors who were promoted as Dy SPs in Telecommunication department of Jammu and Kashmir Police in 2003 are still drawing Inspector grade from past decade. According to reports, in 2003, some 45 Inspectors were promoted as Deputy Superintendent of Police in Telecommunication Department of Jammu and Kashmir Police. However, these promoted officers were not allowed to avail the benefits of their promotion and instead they were forced to work on Inspector grade. One of the police officer who was promoted as Dy SP told CNS that as Inspector they were entitled for a 3 days allowance but as soon as, “we were promoted, we were deprived from that extra allowance,” he said. He said that only their designation has been changed while the reality is that they are still inspectors and the government has not provided them any benefit after their promotion. “Most of these officers have been posted in rural areas and they have not been given any facility by the government. We gave representation to top police brass and even met the authorities in this regard but nothing was done to redress our problem,” one of the police officers told CNS. When contacted Director Police Telecommunication, A.S.Bali told CNS that it is baby of Police Head Quarters and the issue is related to them. ADGP Headquarters, Dr S.P.Vaid said that he will talk to the concerned officer about the issue. Despite repeated attempts, IGP, telecommunications P.L.Gupta could not be contacted. (CNS)
PMGSY ‘Land taken forcibly from us’: land owners
Kupwara, Jan 29: Scores of land owners in North Kashmir’s Kupwara town have alleged that the land taken from them by the government under Prime Ministers Gramene Sadak Yojna was estimated and rated without taking them into confidence. The Road project which connects Tourist Resort Bungus through Rajwar Handwara is constructed under PMGSY and the project is in process from last
several years. This is the only route from Handwara which connects Tourist Resort Bungus. “First my land was forcibly occupied and now I am shocked to learn that they have estimated and rated my land without taking me into confidence,” one of land owner Muhammad Dilawar told CNS. Scores of land owners said that if they will not be taken into confidence and provided market rate for
critical care specialists. The private hospitals have part time super specialists in cardiology, gastroenterology, whom they borrow for few hours from government hospitals”, he said. “They do procedures and in case of complications patients are referred to government hospitals. Most of the patients referred to government hospitals are in a critical condition who either die in transit or if they survive are morbid for rest of their life”. He further said that the private hospitals lack standard treatment protocols, infection control measures, proper Bio-waste disposal and proper sterilization techniques. The irrational use of antibiotic is the main cause of antibiotic resistance in our community. The unhygienic medical practices in private hospitals have caused hepatitis B and hepatitis C epidemic in our population. (GNS)
their land and orchards taken from them forcibly then they will come on roads and start an agitation against the PMGSY officials. When contacted one of the top official of PMGSY told CNS that they will look into the matter. “Before estimating anything we take the land owners into confidence. These owners should approach us so that we can address their grievances,” he said. (CNS)
01 injured in road mishap
Srinagar, Jan 29: One person was injured in a road accident in Bijbehara. A Tavera vehicle bearing registration number JK03/8685 hit and injured a pedestrian Mohammad Ismail Khari resident of Kullar near Sub district Hospital Bijbehara. The injured was shifted to hospital for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard. In another accident a bus bearing registration number JKF/278 driven by Gulzar Ahmad Beigh resident of Ganasthan Sumbal and a Tata sumo bearing chassis number MOJ-418023 driven by Fayaz Ahmad Bhat collided near Palpora, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Kunzar, resulting in the damage to the Sumo. However, no one was injured in the mishap. A case FIR number 05/14 under section 279, 427 RPC has been registered. (KNS)
Administrative Units Row Protest, shutdown in Narabal
Srinagar, Jan 29 (KNS): Cotton factory was damaged in a fire incident in Awantipora, last evening. Fire broke out in a cotton factory at Nowgam Khanday Pora, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Awantipora, resulting in complete damage to the cotton factory. The cause of fire is believed to be due to electric short circuit. (KNS)
Baramulla, Jan 29: Amid shutdown, massive protest demonstrations were staged in Narabal area of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district in favour of tehsil status on Wednesday. Reports said that men, women and youth assembled in Narabal chowk early in the morning demanding Tehsil status for the Narabal block. The protestors under the banner of Bazar Committee and Sumo Minibus Transporters Association blocked Gulmarg-Baramulla road as a result the there was a traffic jam on the busy road
which led to chaos and confusion. “Our protest will continue till the government did not grant Tehsil status to Narabal. It is one of the oldest blocks in Kashmir Valley. Narabal was granted block status in 1953 and ever since no initiative was taken by the respective government to grant Tehsil status to it,” Haji Syed Zahoor Ahmed Narabali told CNS adding that Narabal is comprised of 65 villages and it deserves the status of Tehsil. He said that Narabal Block fulfills all requirements
for being granted Tehsil as Naib-Tehsil office, Block Development Office and other top administrative units already exist here. The protestors amid slogans in favour of granting Tehsil status to Narabal threatened that if government did not meet their demand; they will start an agitation and will come on roads on daily basis. All the shops and business establishments remained closed in the Block while protestors did not allow vehicle to ply on the road. (CNS) (Photograph attached)
Govt of Jammu and Kashmir
Office of the Chief Education officer Baramulla Notification
Subsequent to the apjplications received by the Zonal Education Officer the following candidates on the basis of relative academic merit in the concerned Revenue village / Ward/Habitation have emerged as the prospective candidates for engagement as RT. Any person aggrieved with his/her merit status may present in writing with documentary evidence before the concerned ZEO within seven day-s-f-rom the date of publication of this notification. After expiry of the ead line no representation will be entertained: S. NO
Name of the Zone
Area of selection
Name of the Candidate
Parentage
Reisdence
Date of Birth
Qualification
Marks in Highest Academic Examination
School were to be engaged
Scheme
Remarks
1
DAngiwacha
Panchayat Halqa Pazwalpora
Afroza Begum
Mohamad Ramzan Reshi W/o Nazir Ahmad Wani
Pazwalpora
14-1182
M.A, B.Ed
839/1600
MS Dooniwari
G.O.No. 635 of 2010 read with G.O. No. 522 of 2013
Retirer of Tea
Sd/ Chief Educaiton Officer DIPK NO. 13060 Baramulla
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NEWS Pre-Budget discussions conclude
Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
Srinagar | thurSday
Tax Concessions to Agri sector will continue to make it more remunerative, lucrative: Rather JAMMU, JANUARY 29: The Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather has said that the coalition Government headed by
the J&K State, which no dispensation, whatsoever, can now afford to revoke as it of serves the noble cause ameliorating the lot of about 80 percent
Board for Development of Kissans at Jammu, the Finance Minister said that agriculture sector is the mainstay of state’s economy which needs
Zabarwan Times is available at
Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah in population of the State comprising focused emphasis in budget and plan a landmark initiative, has taken a bold farmer community. formulations and its implementation. decision to make agriculture sector Speaking at a thought pro- He said that the today’s discussion 100 percent tax free. This is the firstAgency vokingKangan session held in connection conceived with a positive Lone News Khan have Newsbeen Agency Ganderbal of its kind initiative in the history of with consultations under the J&K frame of mind to carry on extension
of tax concessions and incentives to the farm sector to make it much more remunerative activity adding that every possible measure would be made to introduce all the available farm technologies and innovations by providing tax relief on procurement of agriculture inputs and implements and import farm machinery. “With the advancement of science and technology, farm mechanization has also taken off overwhelmingly and it was paramount duty of the Government to provide every sort of logistic support to the farming community to switch over to new advancements in this field,” Mr. Rather observed adding that onus also lies on the agriculture extension agencies to educate the farmers about all available schemes, incentives and concessions aimed at to ameliorate the lot of farming community. Mr Rather lauded performance of Kissan Development Board for unifying farming community and
Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam JAMMU, JANUARY 29 badi, Jigar Moradabadi, Faiz Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora Ahmad Faiz, Hasrat Mohani News Agency Zargar News Agency KunzarJAMMU, JANUARY 29: Jammu & KashmirBhat Acadand othersMagam of their stature. emy of Art, Culture & LanAbul Kalam Azad Dar NewsMaulana Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal Minister for Planning, Labour guages today hosted anNews wasAgency among Safapora his admirers. and Employment, Ajay SadhoReshi Saleem News Agency Pattan interactive session with During the interactra has said that Government Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore prominent poet, author and tion, Gulzar Zutshi Dehelvi is encourage those who want Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund intellectual Pandit Altaf AnandNews gave eye witness accounts to set up own income generatJAMMU, JANUARY 29: Min- Sopore Mohan Gulzar Zutshi Jeelani Dehel- News of his struggle for the proAgency Baramulla G.M News Agency ing units , adding that the poliState for Power, Rural vi under the title of Áik Mu-News motion andKupwara development of ister ofSultan cies framed to generate jobs in Shah Agency News Agency Development and Panchyats, Mr.Handwara laqaat Gulzar Zutshi Dehelvi Urdu in the post-Partition Vikar Rasool Wani today directed private sector for unemployed Younis News Agency Langate Sheikh News Agency Islamabad Ke Saath. The function was India. He also recounted the concerned authorities to youth in the State are showing Islamabad Three News Agencyencouraging Tral held in the K L Saigal Reshi Hall ofNews his Agency association with Kash- prepare results. a DPRWay for undertakthe Academy here and was News mir Agency and the Tral grand mushai- ing theBadru Turray NewsofAgency construction Electric Bijbehara This was stated by the attended by a large number rasAgency held their as early as Receiving Station at Chandgam Minister after inaugurating a Rahi News Kulgam Malik News Agency Arwani of writers, poets and lovers 1950s. He spoke in detail in Pulwama district.The direction stone crusher, established in Rah News Agency Byepass Shaheen News Agency Kargil of Urdu language which the about Urdu language and was given by the Minister while private sector, at Nandni in Marh
academy hosts interactive session with doyen of urdu gulzar Zutshi
Electric Receiving Stations at Chandgam-Pulwama soon: Vikar
89 year old poet has been nurturing for the last eight decades. The celebrated poet has the distinction of tirelessly working for Urdu language that brought him in close association, among others, with the first President and first Prime Minister of India, Dr Rajinder Prasad and Jawaharlal Nehru. He has also participated in mushairs alongside with stalwarts like Josh Malia-
the need to popularize it. Known as the staunch advocate of Urdu language, he said Urdu is the best symbol of national integration and communal harmony. He also spoke about his association with great poets of his time and also answered questions from the audience.Secretary Academy, Khalid Bashir Ahmad presented a Kashmiri shawl to the eminent poet as a token of love and respect from the institution.
interacting with the deputation of several villages of Pulwama district which include Nowgam, Palapora, Shitparray Pora, Wasoora Wadigam, Astanpora, Chanchan etc, the deputationists were led by MLC, Mr. Ali Mohammad Magray. Mr. Vikar while interacting with the deputationists said that the government has undertaken several steps for augmentation of the power infrastructure which include commissioning of several new electric sub-station, replacement of old HT/LT lines.
Sadhotra asks youth come towards self-employment schemes
constituency here today. The Minister said that the tendency growing in the educated youth to set up income generating units rather following Govt jobs is a good gesture and will not only create income source for them but also employment opportunities for other persons also depending upon the size of the units. “Becoming a boss is the best policy rather listening to others” the Minister said. Ajay Sadhotra said that
nrhM holds one day workshop on Maternal & Child death review ‘Focus on reducing Maternal & Infant Mortality’ JANUARY, JAMMU 29: The Mission Director NRHM, Dr Yashpal Sharma has urged for plugging of gaps in the delivery of essential services through action at various levels of the healthcare delivery system so that Maternal & Child Deaths are checked effectively in the hospitals & at community levels. Speaking at one day workshop on Maternal & Child Death Review organized by National Rural Health Mission J&K here at Conference Hall State Health Society, Nagrota, Dr Yashpal Sharma said, that though every Maternal & Child death is an unfortunate incident, there are valuable lessons to be drawn from each one such incident so that the underlying causes can be addressed through well knit healthcare delivery system adding that the action plans and schemes under National Rural Health Mission provide reliable and assured remedial measures
to check avoidable Maternal & Child Deaths. Dr Baldev Sharma, Director Family Welfare, MCH & Immunization also addressed the participants during the inaugural session and stressed for reporting of Maternal and under 5 deaths so that the necessary corrective measures can be taken in time. He said what is needed, was the close monitoring, dedication and professional acumen of the medical and paramedical staff deployed in various health institutions. He said though NRHM have provided both infrastructural as well as manpower strengthening in health department besides adequate equipments in health institutions, onus lies on Medical & paramedical Staff to appropriately use these healthcare facilities with a missionary mode to serve the humanity. He said the purpose of workshop on Maternal & Child Review is to establish a mechanism through which all deaths are reported, investigated and then accounted for, adding that it at the same time apprises the concerned authorities
at the Block and District level if there is clustering of deaths in particular villages or populations, so that the social determinants and systemic causes leading to death can be further explored and necessary actions taken through the public health system and multi sectoral convergence.The Inaugural Session was followed by technical session in which detailed presentations on Maternal & Child Death Review were made by Dr Harjeet Rai, Divisional Nodal Officer Jammu, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Dar, Divisional Nodal Officer Kashmir, Dr. Younis Mushtaq Associate Programme Manager & Dr. Arshid Nazir Assistant Program Manager State Health Society. The participants were sensitized about the latest guidelines of MoH&FW, GoI on Maternal & Child Death Review and the reporting mechanism at Community as well as Facility Level. The Objective of the workshop was to align the two processes of Maternal and Child Death Review, since the two are closely linked not only in terms of stakeholders involved but also the underlying social and systemic causes.
tarigami condoles demise of social activist g r ushroo JAMMU, JANUARY 29: MLA, Kulgam and the State Secretary, CPI (M), Mr. Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has expressed his grief and sorrow over the demise of Ghulam Raool of Ushoora, Shopian, who passed away today. In his condolence message, Mr. Tarigami while extending his heartfelt condolences with the bereaved family members has described late Gh. Rasool as a well-wisher of poor and needy who throughout his life worked entirely for their wellbeing and upliftment. Mr. Tarigami, while recounting contribution of late Gh. Rasool Ushroo towards society said that he was a selfless social activist who was popular among the masses for his helpful nature viz-a-viz under privilege and weaker sections of the society.Mr. Tarigami has prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.
SVC reviews roshini Scheme violations, verification process JAMMU, JANUARY 29: The Jammu & Kashmir State Vigilance Commission (SVC) today reviewed
the progress on verification of the alleged irregularities committed in transfer of land under the Roshini Scheme, here at a meeting with Jammu and Kashmir Vigilance Organisation(JKVOJ) officers. The meeting was chaired by Chief Vigilance Commissioner, Mr Kuldeep Khoda. Vigilance Commissioners, Mr R K.Jerath and Mrs Gousul Nisa Jeelani, besides Director State Vigilance Organisation, J&K, Mr Sheikh Owais, IGP Vigilance Organisation, Mr Alok Puri, Secretary State Vigilance Commission, DIG , SSP , Deputy Director Prosecution and Asstt. Commr Rev. of Vigilance Organisation, Additional Secretary SVC, Chief Prosecuting Officer SVC & FA/CAO were present in the meeting. It was for the second time that SIC took a review of the matter and discussed various steps taken and to be taken by the VOJK for the required verification. The Director Vigilance Organization said that four Special Investigation Teams (SIT) each headed by an SP have been constituted to work under close supervision of nodal SIT headed by DIG VOJK for speedy verification. It was also indicated that Government (General Administration Department) has also issued instructions to all the Deputy Commissioners on January 27, 2014 for cooperating with the SITs of Vigilance Organisation to complete the verification.
channelizing its energies towards betterment of farmers and bringing latest innovations in agriculture practices adding that it serves as a bridge between Government and farmers. He said the Government will continue to extend its full support to the Kissan Board to make it a fully empowered and vibrant institution so that other States of the country can take a cue and follow its model. Assuring that the Government will focus on area specific agriplanning, the Finance Minister said that all the Banking Institutions, in the latest State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC) have been asked to complete 100% assigned targets to provide Kissan Credit Card (KCC) before the end of current fiscal. He said Government has already exempted stamp duty on loans up to Rs 1.50 lakh on KCCs adding that the State cannot afford to neglect farming sector as it is still deficit in food grain production.
implementation of SKEWPY was aimed to motivate educated youth towards self employment. He said “Government is not able to provide Govt jobs to everyone” and asked people to
results.
The Minister appealed people, present there, to persuade their children towards self-employment schemes rather allowing them to waste their
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
You probably won’t want to spend much time at home today, Aries. Most likely you’ll want to be out and about, perhaps at a large gathering, perhaps just strolling down a city street watching the people go by. Insights and revelations come to you that you’ll probably be able to make more sense of than you usually do, because mind and feelings are joined in a very effective partnership.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Your imagination is flying high today, Taurus. Intellect and intuition join together in a vivid and explosive union where the whole is definitely greater than the sum of the parts. Don’t waste this energy. Get busy and work on whatever creative projects you’re involved with, or start one if there aren’t any. This energy may not come around again for a while and you’ll want to make the most of it. Have fun!
Gemini May 21-June 21
Thoughts of travel could be on your mind today, Gemini, and you might tinker with the idea of actually taking time off and going somewhere that you’ve always wanted to visit. A friend or love partner might want to accompany you. The only problem might be figuring out what place you want to see the most. This could involve a rather difficult decision. Don’t let it become obsessive. Follow your heart.
Cancer June 22-July 22
Some unusual dreams may come to you tonight, Cancer, and you might awaken with the idea that they’re very important. The images should be very clear, however, and you probably won’t have much trouble working out what they mean. Intellect joins with intuition today in a rush of insightfulness. Make the most of this advantage now, and later decide how best to act on your revelations.
Leo
July 23-August 22 Relationships of all kinds should be thriving at this time, Leo. Mind and emotions join together in a beneficial partnership, enabling you to increase your understanding of those close to you. Romantic involvements strengthen in particular, as an understanding of your partner’s values, attitudes, and motivations becomes clearer to you. Make your new insights known to everyone around you, preferably in a subtle rather than verbal way. The latter might sound patronizing.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
change their mind set and come forward towards self-employment schemes for which Government is extending financial incentive and expertise guidance to the promoter for better
time in looking for Govt jobs. He said there are number of potential sectors where people can invest and earn their livelihood. He said tourism, dairy, sheep, poultry, handicrafts.
Delegation of Political Migrant Front calls on Governor JAMMU, JANUARY 29: A delegation of the Political Migrant Front led by Sheikh Mohi-ud-Din Shabnam, Chairman, met Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at Raj Bhavan today. The delegation apprised the Governor about the plight of the Political migrants living in the camps and different hotels in Jammu and Kashmir. They requested allotment of land for their rehabilitation, provision of soft loans by Banks for starting their own remunerative ventures, enhancement in the amount of the relief grant, registration of migrants with the Relief Commissioner, representation in the “Apex Committee” constituted by the State Government for the Migrants and expediting the process of appointments in Government jobs under the Prime Minister’s Package for Migrants.They also highlighted the need of setting up Anganwadi Centres for the Camp and Non Camp migrants and Medical Insurance cover for the migrant population. Members of the Delegation also requested for construction of a Library cum Memorial Hall at the cremation site of the Sikhs who were martyred at Chatti Singh Pora in Anantnag district.The Governor assured that he would take up their demands with the Chief Minister.
Kiran Kumar Sharma calls on Governor
JAMMU, JANUARY 29: Mr. Kiran Kumar Sharma, Youth Social Worker and Red Cross Volunteer, Indian Red Cross Society, Jammu and Kashmir, called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at Raj Bhavan today.Mr Kiran Kumar has been conferred “National Youth Award 2011-2012” by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, and is also the recipient of “Young Achiever Award” of The Hindustan Times Group for his exemplary work in the field of Social work. Mr. Kumar reacted commendably when, in December 2013, on observing a road side accident he provided prompt first aid and shifted the accident victim to the hospital in Jammu. His timely intervention helped in saving the man’s life.
La Panel for expediting construction of 10 MW hPP achoora JAMMU, JANUARY 29: The Committee on Government Assurances of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Wednesday recommended the Government to expedite the process for construction of 10 MW Hydro Power Project (HPP) at Achoora Gurez and complete it in a time bound manner. The Committee, which met under the chairmanship of MLA, Mr. Mohammad Yasin Shah here today, discussed and examined the action taken reports of various Government Assurances pertaining to Power Development Department (PDD) besides the general functioning of the department about which the PDD authorities gave a power point presentation.
30. 01 .2014
The Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC) briefed the Committee about the project. It was informed that 7 MW Achoora-Gurez was advertised under State Hydel Policy-2011 in January 2013. However, there was no response. Subsequently it has been decided to take up the project under State sector through Energy Procurement Construction (EPC) mode. JKSPDC has invited bids for engagement of Consultants for preparation of DPR and selection of EPC contractor.The Committee members Choudhery Zulifkar Ali, Syed Basharat Ahmad Bukhari, Mr. T. Namgyal, Mr. Javid Ahmad Dar and Mr. Krishen Chander Bhagat stressed on meet-
ing all Government Assurances pertaining to PDD on the floor of the House from time to time. After threadbare discussions after satisfactory reply given by the department, the Committee dropped some Assurances. The panel directed the PDD authorities to gear up field functionaries and fulfil all pending Government Assurances pertaining to PDD during the year 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. Among others, Principal Secretary, PDD, Mr. A. K. Mehta, Managing Director, JKSPDC, Mr. Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo, Power Development Commissioner, Chief Engineers of various wings of the PDD, besides senior officers of Assembly Secretariat, PDD and JKSPDC attended the meeting.
Work of all kinds gets done a lot faster, Virgo, as friends or family members join in assisting you in getting it out of the way. You’ve made this possible because your intellect has joined with your emotions in strengthening your communication with others. The old saying, “You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar” is very true, and you’ll learn all about it today.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Work of all kinds gets done a lot faster, Virgo, as friends or family members join in assisting you in getting it out of the way. You’ve made this possible because your intellect has joined with your emotions in strengthening your communication with others. The old saying, “You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar” is very true, and you’ll learn all about it today! After the tasks are complete, throw an impromptu party!
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 A number of visitors might come to your house today, Scorpio, perhaps to discuss matters of interest to all of you. Some intense disagreements could arise, but you’ll be able to keep it all together. An intellect enhanced by intuition enables you to understand and explain complex ideas, and you’ll also be able to derail misunderstandings before they even happen.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
If you’re into computers and the Internet, Sagittarius, you can expect to spend a lot of time today staring at a screen. You may be doing some writing or web design or animation, but whatever it is, you’ll probably find it noticeably better than what you usually produce. Intellect joins with intuition to produce inspiration and insight. Make the most of it now and you might develop some new and lasting skills!
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Using computers either to increase your income or manage your money may have seemed like Greek to you, Capricorn, but today you’ll probably catch on very quickly. Your natural practicality joins with an enhanced intellect and heightened intuition to give you an advantage you don’t usually have. If you concentrate on learning it all today, it’ll probably continue to be useful for you for a long time.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Intellect and feelings are totally joined today, Aquarius, especially when dealing with friends. Your basic understanding of others is also enhanced by a keener sense of intuition. You might become interested in a cause of some kind, perhaps metaphysical, social, ecological, or humanitarian in nature. There could well be more than one that you find appealing right now.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 A focused and enhanced practical turn of mind, strengthened by intuition, may be of great help to you today when considering career matters, Pisces. A change is in the wind and you might want to give considerable thought to different options that may be opening up to you. Don’t think you have to rush into making a decision, however. It might be a good idea to let different possibilities simmer in your subconscious for a day or so.
EDITORIAL/ OPINION Another Forgotten Lake
L
ike all other lakes in the valley, there is one more lake called Anchar which is breathing its last, due to negligence of government and the people living around this vital lake. Once upon a time, this lake had abundance of crystal clear water flowing from Dal Lake. Tourists would visit this water body in large numbers and enjoy its Shikara and boat rides. Even the houseboats were used and the tourist would spend nights whether in summer, autumn or winter. But unfortunately, the pristine glory of this lake has been lost due to greed and ignorance of the people who do not realize the importance of water bodies and pollute it for their own conveniences without realizing that they are axing their future with their own hands. Encroachment by the surrounding natives is continuing without any check by government agencies. Presently this lake is under the authority of Srinagar Municipal Corporation which is too overburdened to look after this important water body. The whole lake is covered with weeds and shores with willows whose shades are so dense that the sunlight cannot pass through it which will eventually end up in the extinction of flora and fauna in the lake. The most painful part of this dying lake is the flow of waste of SKIMS- whether solid or liquid, into this water body. Though SKIMS has its own waste disposal mechanism but still the liquid waste directly goes into this lake as a result of which the inhabitants cannot properly breathe due to foul smell. Moreover part of Sindh river water enters this lake with tons of silt. The shores have been converted into land and are being used by locals for cultivating vegetables and other crash crops. The sewage of the new human settlement colonies is directly pouring into this lake and making the water of the lake highly polluted. In order to save this lake from dying its cleanliness and dredging is the first and foremost need. The land grabbers should be dealt with iron fist. The inflow of the waste should be immediately stopped by constructing planned sewerage network otherwise slowly and gradually all the water bodies in Kashmir valley will die its own death including this lake.
Daily
Zabarwan Times
Srinagar,Thursday 30 January 2014
Empowering Rural Women to Become Agents of Change
F
ourteen year old Piari Purti from Gaddara village in Jharkhand began working as a farm labourer when she was just eight to nine years old. She used to get 60 rupees a day. When she attained 11 years of age Piari Purti began working in a brick yard and was paid 80 rupees a day. She left home every morning at 6 AM and returned at 6.30 PM in the evening. Back home, she also had to help her mother and look after her younger siblings. Belonging to an extremely poor family, Piari says there were days when they could not get two square meals a day. Piari says that in her village the upper class families looked down upon them. “They wash the charpoy if we happen to sit on them and if any of us used the tap before them, they made it a point to clean the tap before using it and there was no question of ever entering their houses. For girls it was double discrimination”, she says. “Boys are preferred over girls to be sent to school in our village, but I was lucky that I got a chance to come to Mahila Shikshan Kendra”, says Piari. It was in April this year that Piari Purti was selected for admission to Mahila Shikshan Kendra in Jamshedpur. For Piari who had never been to school, it was a dream come true, for she always wanted to study. Before the completion of the 11 month crash course she was undergoing, Piari will have learnt lessons up to class V and then she would be admitted to Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya. “I want to become an engineer”, she says. MSKs are run by the Mahila Samakhya scheme under the Human Resource Development Ministry of the Union Government. Recognizing that education can be an effective tool in women’s empowerment , the programme was first started as a pilot project in 1988 in three states including Karnataka , Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh but is now being implemented in nine states including Jharkhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chhatisgarh and Uttarakhand . There are 30 girls and young women (between the age group of 15 to 35) in each of the MSKs where lessons up to class fifth are taught during the almost year long course. The aim is to make them self reliant through Life skill education, vocational as well as computer training. Teaching them to view things from gender perspective, developing self confidence and leadership qualities are also part of the training at MSKs. The objective is to create a pool of well trained, literate, motivated women who become agents of change in their villages when they go back. According to Dr Smita Gupta, State Program Director, Jharkhand Mahila Samkhya Society (JMSS), specially designed curriculum is followed to develop leader ship qualities and audio visual techniques, computers, television etc are used to arouse interest and curiosity among the learners. These young girls at the MSKs also get a chance to participate in sports, karate, plays and celebrations of days like Wash Day or Teachers day etc.. They are also taken to banks, post offices, railway stations etc., to acquaint them with the services, working and facilities there. Sometimes they also get to participate in workshops and seminars. Participating in a workshop on menstruation health and hygiene in Ranchi, one of the girls, Asha Tudu who had come along with other girls from the Jamshedpur MSK
said that she will spread awareness about the importance of cleanliness during menstruation and hygiene among women and young girls. Asha says that people in her village are very poor and she wants to become a doctor so that everybody is treated in the village itself. “I want everyone in my village to be healthy”, she says. Ashtami Sardar from village Khanda Dera who also worked as a farm hand for 50 rupees a day before she was selected for admission to MSK Jamshedpur says that she wants to become a teacher so that no one remains illiterate in her village. There are 14 MSKs in Jharkhand, one each in 11 districts, one for women prisoners in Birsa Munda Jail in Ranchi , one in Khunti for survivors of human trafficking. Trafficking of girls is serious issue of serious in Jharkhand which is considered a source state from where several girls are duped into exploitative situations due to extreme poverty. It was only last year that one MSK for women and young girls rescued from trafficking was started and the first batch has completed the 11 month condensed course. The Khunti District Programe Coordinator Anchi Horo says the biggest challenges they face in mainstreaming the trafficking survivors is to bring them to MSK. “They are too scared to come out of their homes after they have been rescued. Even when they come to MSK, it takes time to get them out of fear psychosis.” says Anchi Horo. “Five out of the first batch of 32 have been admitted to KGBV, many have stayed back to complete their vocational training. Craft and beautician’s course is what most of them prefer.” says Anchi Horo. The MSK in the Birsa Munda Jail has 24 women inmates as trainees. According to a functionary, the first thing
they have to do is to take these young girls out of depression and then get them interested in studies. It is the most marginalized women and adolescent girls who are selected for admission to MSKs. Mahila Samakhya groups identify the trainees for the MSK. Girls and women who have keen interest to study and do something in life are preferred. To start with, selected women and adolescent girls have to participate in 10 days literacy camp. The list is finalized in accordance with their performance in the camp by the warden, teachers and ex-MSK trainees. A total of 104 batches have so far come out of MSKs in the state, thereby benefitting 3456 girls and young women, out of which 2169 are from scheduled tribes, over 900 from scheduled castes, 315 from OBCs and 63 from minority communities. What is however worrying is that girls like Basanti Purti, sister of Piari Purti who is just 11 years old continues to work in brick yards or farms to earn a living. There are thousands of them like her who instead of being in schools which is their legal right, have no choice but to slog for 50 to 60 rupees a day or are forced into trafficking because of extreme poverty . Also in the 4th Joint Review Mission of Mahila Samakhya, it was pointed out that poor quality of teaching, infrastructure and inadequate learning material in the MSKs was an area of concern . It was said that many girls, as a result were unable to get admission to KGBVs. The silver lining, however, is that there are girls like Asha, Piari and Ashtami , who are not only looking forward to getting higher education but have already been motivated to become forceful agents of change in their villages .
A Legend of Indian Film Industry Akkineni Nageswara Rao
T
he doyen of Telugu film industry Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao created a history through the actor's 75 years old career comprised of 256 films across social, romantic and mythological generis. The legendary film actor Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao stole the hearts of millions of fans across the world. He is a role model for Indian Youth and upcoming young artists in India and abroad. His impeccable character, discipline, hard work and commitment for human and ethical values made him a towering personality in Indian society. Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao mesmerized the audiences with memorable performances in hit films like Batasari, Devadas and Tenali Ramkrishna. Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao was of the black and white era known for his strong will power and positive attitude. The 91 year old legendary figure in Indian Cinema passed away due to cancer in Hyderabad on 22 January, 2014. Dr. Akkineni Nageswara Rao popularly known as "Ever Green Hero ANR" is survived by three daughters and two sons including film actor Nagarjuna and several grand children. His grandchild Naga Chaitanya is also a cinema artist. Akkineni Nageswara Rao was the youngest of five brothers born into a poor family on 20 September 1923 at Raghavapuram, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh. His parents, Akkineni Venkatratnam and Akkineni Punnamma, were from the farming community. His formal education was limited to primary schooling due to his parents' poor economic condition.
Entry into Film World
It was in 1941, at the age of 17, that he made his entry into the Telugu film, Dharmapatni, in which he played the role of the protagonist's friend. ANR, as he's fondly referred to, was discovered by chance at the Vijayawada railway station by the noted film producer, Ghantasala Balaramaiah, a popular film producer of that time, and was immediately offered the lead role of Lord Rama in his upcoming movie Seeta Rama Jananam. He predominantly acted in theater, many times donning female roles since women weren't allowed on stage at that time. He has since acted in over 256 films, spanning the Telugu, Tamil and Hindi languages and became the most prominent figures in the history of Telugu cinema. Majority of his films were both commercial and critical successes.
Extraordinary Performance in Prominent Films
ANR played a variety of roles ranging from a charming prince to a frustrated alcoholic lover, from a valiant soldier to a holy saint, and from a college student to a composed government official. He excelled in mythological roles too as Abhimanyu in Maya Bazaar, as Lord Vishnu in Chenchu Lakshmi; as Narada in Bhookailash; and Arjuna in Sri Krishnarjuna Yuddham. In rural oriented films like Balaraju, Rojulu Maraayi, and Namminaban-
tu, he attained the status of Telugu cinema's first superstar. He also made a striking mark in comedy films like Missamma, Chakrapani, and Preminchi Choodu. ANR is fondly called the "Tragedy King" of Telugu cinema, through his milestone performances in romantic dramas such as Laila Majnu, Anarkali, Batasari, Prem Nagar, Premabhishekam, and Meghasandesham. The film Premabhishekam directed by Dasari Narayana Rao is one of the biggest hits in Tollywood. It had an amazing 533 days run in Hyderabad City, which is still the highest run in a city for any Telugu movie. Premabhishekam is the only Telugu film to have run for more than one year continuously. He was the first to perform a double role in Telugu films, and even played nine roles in the film Navarathri. ANR's portrayal of an alcoholic jilted lover in Devadasu by eminent writer Sarath Chandra's was reprised by many in later years in several different languages, the famous Hindi actor Dilip Kumar said that "there is only one Devadasu, and that is Nageswara Rao." Most of ANR's social films like Samsaram, Bratuku Teruvu, Aradhana, Donga Ramudu, Dr. Chakravarthi, Ardhaangi, Mangalya Balam, Illarikam, Shantinivasam, Velugu Needalu, Dasara Bullodu, Bharya Bhartalu, Dharmadata, Batasari, and College Bullodu were commercially successful films. Sitaramayyagari Manavaralu was released in 1991, exactly 50 years after his debut, and was a huge success at the box office, despite the influx of newer and younger stars. A unique feature that won ANR acclaim from critics and art lovers was that he enacted the roles of literary and cultural icons of different regions in India, thereby making them instruments of national integration - as the great Sanskrit poet, Mahakavi Kalidas of Ujjain; as the celebrated musician saint, Bhakta Jayadeva of Odisha; as the temple sculptor, Amarasilpi Jakkanna of Karnataka; as the devotee saint, Vipranarayana of Tamil Nadu; and as the singer Bhakta Tukaram of Maharashtra. Manam was the last film of Akkineni Nageswara Rao, where he shared screen space with his son Nagarjuna and grandson Naga Chaitanya.
Best Contributions to Society
Akkineni Nageswara Rao was a prominent Telugu film actor and producer, among other things, he is also credited for influencing Telugu film producers and creating a base for Telugu films in Hyderabad. The Telugu film industry, in its early days, was based in Madras (now Chennai) in Tamil Nadu. The new state of Andhra Pradesh was carved out from the Madras Presidency on 1 November 1956 and several leaders opined that in order to create a separate identity for the Telugu film industry; it had to be based in Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh. ANR was one of the first actors of that period who insisted on moving the Telugu film center from Chennai to Hyderabad. He established his own 22
acre production studio/house, named Annapurna Studios after his wife, in the heart of Hyderabad, to facilitate this. In 1957, he donated a considerable sum of money to the Andhra University. He was the Chief Donor and President of a College at Gudivada in Andhra Pradesh, which was subsequently named after him. Being a strong advocate of education, he created scholarships in the Universities of Andhra, Madras, Sri Venkateswara, and Osmania. Apart from being a Life Member of the Andhra University, he was also adviser to its Department of Dramatics and Theatre Arts. Apart from being a movie star, ANR was a prolific writer. Some of his prominent books being are his autobiographical work, Nenu Na Jeevitham, the memoirs of his first visit to the USA, Nenu Choosina America, and the expression of his thoughts in his book, A Aalu. His most recent, contemplative, self-reflective work is the book Manasuloni Maata. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from several Indian universities.
Cultural Ambassador of India
ANR was invited as a guest of the State by USA, Russia, UK, France, Germany, Denmark, Malaysia, and Japan. He toured all these countries as a cultural ambassador representing India. He visited Australia in 1967, leading a delegation representing the Indian film, Anthasthulu. He also served as a Director on the Board of the National Film Development Corporation of India. The farm boy, who never imagined that he would cross the borders of his village or district, toured all over the world as an Indian ambassador of art and culture. He was also invited as a State Guest by the United States of America, England, France and Germany in 1964 and the USSR in 1972 besides some other countries in the West to study Film Craft and Theatre Arts in the respective countries. The people felicitated Dr. Akkineni with love and honour across the globe.
National- International Awards
His contribution to Indian Film Industry was recognised by the Government of India and he was conferred Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and Dada Saheb Falke Award. Dr Nageswara Rao was also honoured with Nandi Awards for best actor in Meghasandesam and Bangaru Kutumbam, he won Raghupathi Venkaiah Award and NTR National Award. Madhya Pradesh state Government conferred prestigious Kalidasa Award to Nageswara Rao. Tamil Nadu presented Kalaimamani award. Telugu Association of North America(TANA) of USA presented him Lifetime achievement award in 2012. At the age of 91, this legendry film actor was suffering from intestinal cancer and died on 22nd January 2014.
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