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31 January | 2014 | 29 Rabi-Al-Awwal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 31 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)
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Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
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Mian Altaf reviews working of Corporation See More On Page 10
Stuns his own wicket keeper
Srinagar, Jan 30: Anantnag police recovered an unidentified female body near Aang Bridge, this afternoon. Police registered a case FIR number 8/2014 and started investigation to ascertain the cause of the death. Anantnag police was informed by some locals that a body of a female is lying near Aang Bridge in the jurisdiction of police Station Anantnag. Police team rushed on the spot and recovered the body. The body was shifted to District Hospital, Anantnag. Investigation has been started. Anybody having any information regarding the identity of the deceased may please contact on Phone no.s 9419005190, 01932222870 or Police Control Room, Srinagar on Dial 100. (KNS)
05 shops gutted in fire Srinagar, January 30: Five shops were damaged in two separate fire incidents across the valley. Fire broke out in the shop of Bashir Ahmad Bhat resident of Chittergul near Hill-top Sumo stand, Chittergul, in the jurisdiction of Police station Achabal, Anantnag, resulting in damage to the shop. Fire was brought under control with the help of fire tenders and locals of the area. Meanwhile, four shops belonging to Mushtaq Ahmad Sakroo son of Ghulam Rasool resident of Khawaja Bagh and Nazir Ahmad Ganie son of Ghulam Qadir resident of Dragbal were damaged completely when fire broke out in the nearby fish Market Baramulla. Fire was brought under control with the help of fire tenders, police and locals of the area.
Inside story 1035 medical personnel being engaged besides setting up 234 MHTs, 9 DEICs under RBSK tional Health Mission (NHM), Jammu and Kashmir presented at the 65th Republic Day parade in M.A.M Stadium, Jammu has largely been appreciated by the people from different walks of life. The theme of the tableaux was Rashtriya Bal Sawasthya Karyakaram (RBSK), an ambitious health care programme launched recently throughout the country which is aiming at providing comprehensive care to all the children from zero to 18 years of age in the community. The main focus
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On Edit Page Better road connectivity must for better tourism
Tourism has assumed the importance of a big industry in the world and this sector is generating a lots of employment opportunities in every country particularly those countries which have abundance of natural beauty. Jammu and Kashmir is one of the places which has been bestowed with magical beauty by the nature. Kashmir valley called the paradise on earth attracts lakhs of tourists every year who enjoy the valley and its surroundings which have everything to offer to the lovers of natural beauty.Jammu and Kashmir is one of the places which has been bestowed with magical beauty by the nature. Kashmir valley called the paradise on earth attracts lakhs of tourists every year who en-
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WEATHER
Shopian deputation calls on Jora Demands tehsil HQ status to Keegam
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(FRIDAY) SUNRISE ON (SATURDAY)
Karvan-e-Aman bus to resume Monday
2.9 0C 0
-3.4 C 06:01PM 07:29 AM
Administrative Units row
CM’s Samba statement shocked Congress party
Decision taken after India, Pak officials meeting
Srinagar, Jan 30: The bus services between divided parts of Kashmir will resume ensuing Monday after remaining suspended since face-off between India and Pakistan over seizure of contraband from a LoC truck driver from Pakistan-Administered-Kashmir. "The bus service will resume from Monday," Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Khawaja Ghulam Ahmad told GNS. The decision, he said, was taken at a meeting of official from Kashmir and Pak at LoC here. "The meeting started at around 3:30 and concluded after one and half hour," the Deputy Commissioner said. However, there was no breakthrough in restoring the trade via LOC even as the Deputy Commissioner expressed hope about resumption within one week. 'Hopefully, the trade will also resume. We have in detail informed the official
delegation (from other side) over the laws governing the subject," he added. Khawaja Ghulam Ahmad headed the official team from Kashmir which comprised SP Baramulla Zubair Khan, SDM Uri Abdul Aziz and SHO Uri Mohammad Abdullal. From Pak, the official delegation was led by DG trade Brig (Retd) Mohammad Ismail. Trade across the Line of Control (LoC) was disrupted Jan 17 after the arrest of the driver and seizure of the vehicle by India. Pakistani authorities later detained 27 drivers and their vehicles from India who had gone to Chakote near Muzaffarabad with trade goods. Pakistan also refused entry to 48 of its own trucks, demanding the Indian authorities to release the arrested driver and allow the return of all 49 trucks that had come to the See Meeting On Page 11..
India, Netherlands sign MoU in Health and Medicine New Delhi, Jan 30: India signed a MoU with the Netherlands in the field of health and medicine to strengthen bilateral cooperations, here today. The MoU was signed by the Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad and Ms. Edith I Schippers, Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport, Kingdom of the Netherlands.
including e-health and governance; medical equipment and pharmaceutical products; and life sciences and medical technology. Under the agreement both countries can also encourage greater research collaboration between universities, foundations, industry and the health services in both the countries, he noted.
‘CM himself termed Ganie Committee report inconclusive’: Mir
Jammu, Jan 30: Congress party Thursday alleged that after giving mandate to Cabinet Sub Committee to ‘balance’ the Mushtaq Ganaie Committee Report (MGCR), Chief Minister Omar Abdullah shocked everyone when just after 3 days in public rally at Samba, he claimed that some people do not want Ganaie Committee report to be implemented in letter and spirit and are trying to scuttle it. “What was the fun of that statement when Chief Minister himself formed Cabinet Sub Committee to balance the report about the creation of new administrative units? Chief Minister himself asserted that Ganaie Committee report is imbalanced and needs to be balanced but to everybody’s surprise, National Conference started blaming Congress Party, forgetting that their members were the part and parcel of the CSC formed by Chief
NC-Cong accommodate each other’s viewpoint Srinagar, Jan 30: National Conference senior leader and minister for law and parliamentary affairs Mir Saifullah on Thursday said that the issue of creation of new administrative units across the state has been amicably sorted out between the two coalition partners in the state. See NC On Page 11..
Minister,” Tourism Minister and senior Congress leader See Mir On Page 11..
Centre raises quota of subsidized LPG cylinders to 12 per household New Delhi, Jan 30: The government today raised quota of subsidised LPG cylinders to 12 cylinders per household in a year from the current nine. The hike will be effective from 1st of April. However, consumers will get one extra cylinder each during February and March this year, beyond the quota of nine. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Cabinet Committee of Political Affairs in New Delhi. Briefing media, Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister M Veerappa Moily said one cylinder will be given to consumers every month. He said hike in the subsidised LPG quota will cost five thousand crore rupees more in subsi-
dy to the exchequer annually. Moily said after the hike in quota, about 97 per cent of the LPG consumers would be covered by subsidised LPG. Moily said it was a genuine demand by Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi. The Minister also said the direct benefit transfer scheme for LPG has been put on hold. Explaining the reasons behind the move, he said there were complaints about its implementation and a committee has been set up to look into the issues. Under the scheme, consumers in as many as 289 districts in 18 states got the subsidy amount in their bank accounts to buy cooking gas at market rate.
Employees march foiled; hundreds detained Srinagar, Jan 30: The police on Thursday detained hundreds of government employees when they tried to stage a protest demonstration to press for their demands at Gandhi Nagar in Jammu. According to KNS, scores of employees sustained injuries after police foiled their protest march in Gandhi Nagar. The employees tried to take out their protest march but police swung into action and prevented them from disrupting the area. Hundreds of employees including Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC) chairman Abdul Qayoom Wani See Employees On Page 11..
Nation pays tributes to Gandhi ji on his 66th death anniversary
Speaking at the occasion Azad said that development and strengthening of cooperation between the two countries will result in mutually beneficial exchanges in the areas of communicable diseases; anti-microbial resistance; public health policy; health systems strengthening
Azad said that this is a very positive development and a step forward from the sectoral MoU between respective food regulatory authorities in the area of food safety. He expressed his happiness that the United Nations has recognized the See Health On Page 11..
New Delhi, Jan 30: President Pranab Mukherjee led the nation in paying rich homage to the father of nation, Mahatma Gandhi on his 66th death anniversary today. Vice President Mohammed Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, Defence Minister A K Antony, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, BJP leader L K Advani and prominent leaders from various political parties paid floral tributes at his Samadhi at Rajghat in the national capital. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Chiefs of three services also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at his memorial. All religion prayer meeting was organised at the Samadhi and his favourite Bhajans were recited. Devotional songs were also sung on the occasion. Around 250 students from dif-
PDP delegation calls on Governor, demands justice for victims of Pathribal fake encounter Jammu, Jan 30: A delegation of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by party MLA from Shangus, Peerzada Mansoor Hussain along with locals today called on Governor Mr N N Vohra and demanded justice for the victims of Pathribal fake encounter case. The delegation demanded re-opening of the case and fresh investigation in a time bound manner. According to a statement issued to KNS, while expressing his anger over closing the case by the Army, Peerzada Mansoor pointed out that this case has provided a window of opportunity to the state government as well as Centre to provide justice to the people of Kashmir. He said that faith of the common masses has been badly shattered due to the closing of this case so it was need of the hour to re-investigate the case in a time bound
manner to revive faith of the people. MLA Shangus, under whose constituency Pathribal falls, said that it was all due to the denial of justice and lack of transparency and accountability in the system that alienation among Kashmiris has been increasing. He insisted that all institutions including Army and other security forces should be made accountable. MLA urged the Governor to take this issue before the Defence Ministry. He said that Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh is visiting Jammu in the first week of February and urged the Governor to convey their feeling to the Prime Minister during this visit. Sharing their concern, Governor assured the delegation that he would convey their feeling and his own observations to the Prime Minister on this case. See PDP On Page 11..
Land acquisition of Central University Ganderbal
FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:
To work with Aamir in new movie
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Body of female recovered in Anantnag
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Landowners stage protest against Government
Srinagar, Jan 30, CNS: Scores of landowners from Central Kashmir’s Barsoo area of Ganderbal town Thursday staged a protest against State Government alleging that government duped them while taking their land for the
construction of Central University in Ganderbal. The protestors said that government had promised land owners that government job would be given to each member of their family but even after the expiry of two years no job was provided to them. During land acquisition, government even promised us that local labours would be used to See Land On Page 11..
ferent schools were present during the programme. A two-minute silence was observed across the nation at 11 AM, in the memory of the Father of the nation. The day is also observed as a Martyr day. It was on this day in 1948 when Mahatma Gandhi, fell to an assassin's bullets. As the nation observes the anniversary of martyrdom of the father of the nation, his message of truth, peace and non-violence reverberates across the world. The Swiss city of Geneva has a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in front of the United Nations building. This statue of Mahatma Gandhi is a gift from the Government of India to the city of Geneva. It was unveiled on the 14th November 2007 at Ariana Park near the Palais des Nations. The
PCC paid rich tributes to Mahatma Gandhi Srinagar, Jan 30: On the occasion of Death Anniversary of Late Gandhi Ji, J&K Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) held a meeting of prominent leaders and workers at Congress Party Headquarters on Thursday. According to a statement issued to KNS, the meeting was presided over by Vice President J&K Pradesh See PCC On Page 11.. 600 kg weighing bronze See Nation On Page 11..
Enthusiastic spectators did not let Bollywood crew to shoot for ‘Haider’ Four cops injured
Anantnag, Jan 30, CNS: The shooting for film-maker Vishal Bhardwaj’s movie ‘Haider’ was called off after police failed to control the crowd in South Kashmir’s Kehribal area of Anantnag. Reports said that, Bollywood crew arrived at Sun Temple located in Kehribal Anantang to shoot a sequence for ‘Haider’. Hundreds of spectators gathering on the spot of shooting who were eagerly waiting for the actor Shahid Kapoor. “As the actor de-boarded from his vehicle, spectators mostly youth tried to encircle him and some of them tried to enter into Sun-Temple. See Haider On Page 11..
Power shortage continues to haunt people Anti PDD protests in different areas of Kashmir
Srinagar, Jan 30, CNS: Power shortage continues to haunt people in Kashmir. Amid chill people at different places in Kashmir Valley took to streets on Thursday against Power Development Department (PDD) alleging that scores of areas are reeling under darkness while the PDD do not bother to stick to its curtail-
ment schedule that it came up with on the onset of winter in November last year. Reports said that hundreds of people blocked Bandipora-Shadipora road near Ganistan Sumbal area of North Kashmir’s Bandipora district. Protestors including men, women, youth and children assembled on road and used wooden logs to disrupt the vehicular movement. The protestors alleged that scores of areas in Sumbal
Tehsil are without electricity from past ten days while PDD officials are in slumber. “Whenever we approach any PDD official, he assures of regular power supply but soon his assurances prove hoax as we never see electricity,” they said. Traffic was disrupted for hours on roads while the Police and PDD officials who visited the spot assured that electricity will See Power On Page 11..
J&K Yateem Foundation Rejects Allegations of Nepotism
Srinagar, Jan 30: Jammu and Kashmir Yateem Foundation Thursday termed the allegations baseless that candidates for the posts of Project Coordinator and Field Supervisor were selected on the basis of favours and nepotism. Scores of post graduate students possessing Masters in Social Work (MSW) had alleged that Jammu and Kashmir Yateem Foundation ignored them for their project despite the fact that they were eligible for the posts of Project Coordinator and Field Supervisor. These candidates alleged that Yateem Foundation selected blue-eyed persons as the nepotism runs high in the Foundation Board. This news report filed by CNS was carried by a section of press. In a press statement issued to CNS, Jammu and Kashmir Yateem Foundation has said that Foundation in consultation with Save The Children, issued advertisement with clear details about eligibility criteria keeping in view the requirements and preferences. “JKYF rejects allegations like “selecting blue eyed See JK On Page 11..
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Srinagar, Friday 31 January 2014
From the front page
Meeting Salamabad trade centre in Baramulla district Jan 17. Brig. (retd) Muhammad Ismail Khan, director general of trade and travel of Pakistan, told Indian officials during a meeting to resolve the deadlock that the Pakistani driver could not be arrested by India as he had diplomatic immunity. Pakistan also said bus services between Uri-Muzaffarabad and Poonch-Rawlakote would remain suspended till the deadlock is resolved. (GNS)
Mir Ghulam Ahmed Mir told CNS adding that even some of the NC leaders didn’t see eye to eye with MGCR. Mir said that Ganaie Committee in its report has proposed a ‘Block Status’ for three ‘halkas’ while ignoring those Blocks which are comprised of more than 10 ‘halkas’. “In one of the meetings, even some NC leaders like Mir Saifullah felt that MGCR is inconclusive and admitted that it is not balanced one,” Mir said. He said both NC and Congress members requested Chief Minister to form a CSC to seek suggestion from people. Mir said that Omar Abdullah gave nod to CSC after he felt that Ganaie report was not balanced. “CSC was formed by Omar Abdullah. He gave 10 days time to the Committee comprised of both NC and Congress members. But, only after three days the Chief Minister at his Samba rally in Jammu claimed that some people are trying to scuttle the Ganaie Committee report,” Mir told CNS adding that why NC is blaming Congress for delay in the submission of CSC report when its members are part of it. Senior Congress leader said that Congress is not demanding the creation of 2100 administrative units. “It is an exaggerated figure. Our demand is that all the three regions of the State should be given their share on equal basis,” he said. Mir said that it was not an easy job for CSC to submit its report in 10 days as it involved many technicalities. “CSC is working day in and day out to complete the report and the report will be tabled before Cabinet in its next meeting,” Mir said. Responding to a query, Mir said that there is no threat to the Coalition Government from Congress side. “Congress party is cooperative and want to cooperate with NC at all levels to run the affairs of the Government smoothly,” he said.
NC Talking to KNS, Saifullah said that he don’t see any scope for reservations vis-à-vis the proposal of setting up of new administrative units as both the coalition partners—Congress and National Conference have accommodated each other’s viewpoint on the subject. “The CSC will now submit its report to the state cabinet on its next scheduled meeting. The chief minister Omar Abdullah was genuinely concerned over delay in finalizing the CSC report. Mr Abdullah wants that people should not suffer for want of good governance at their doorstep. Since the issues between the two parties have been settled, I don’t see the chief minister will by concerned anymore,” the NC minister told KNS. (KNS)
Employees were detained and put behind bars at police lines. The Joint Consultative Committee (JCC), an amalgam of the employees, had called for protest at Jammu to press for their demands including enhancement of retirement age from 58 to 60 years, regularization of daily wagers and consolidated workers. Eye witnesses told KNS that as soon as employees assembled at Gandhi Nagar and started a protest, large number of police personnel intercepted them and did not allow them to proceed. “However, the employees did not relent and continued with their protest. The large number of police personnel bundled scores of employees in police vehicles and took them to different police stations. The police action created panic and traffic movement was also affected for quite some time,” eye witness told KNS. Meanwhile Talking to KNS, Abdul Qayoom Wani, senior leader JCC said that government’s confrontation with the employees is not at all good and will yield only destructive results. “Our demands are genuine and the government acknowledged the same many a times. We are striving for our demands in a democratic way and we will never quit. He also warned the government that if government will continue with this kind of attitude we will go for an indefinite strike and we also will not hesitate from stopping essential services.” Pertinently JCC had issued a fresh protest calendar calling for five-day protest demonstrations commencing from January 31. Wani appealed the employees to stage one hour sit-in in front of chief minister Omar Abdullah’s residence at Wazarat Road in Jammu on January 31. He called for gherao of legislative assembly complex in Jammu on February 14. He appealed employees to go for pen down strike on February 15. “And if our demands are not met and a concrete decision is not taken by the government till February 15, on February 16 the JCC will decide about future course of action which may include an option to go for indefinite strike,” Wani told KNS on phone form Jammu. Chief Secretary Mohammad Iqbal Khandey, when contacted by KNS said: “The government has already constituted a cabinet subcommittee to deal with the matter and the committee will be better to talk on the issue.” Taj Mohi-u-Din, minister for PHE and member of the cabinet subcommittee on employees demands, told KNS: “I will tell employee leadership to exhibit patience because we have already met their demands. As far as the pay anomaly is concerned, the committee on this demand is preparing its report and once we receive it, a decision on the same will be taken appropriately. Regarding regularization of daily wagers, let me tell you that it is the employees who have to submit the records and let them furnish the record to the government for further necessary action.” (KNS)
Health important role of health in the next generation of global development goals beyond 2015, suggesting an illustrative goal of “Ensuring healthy lives”. The agreement coincides with the on-going debate on the development goals the global community should set next, he added. Ms. Edith I Schippers, Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport, Kingdom of the Netherlands had visited New Delhi in May 2012, when discussions were done on possibilities of co-operation in public health and drug regulatory mechanisms. That was followed by Azad’s visit to Netherlands in October 2012 to attend the Ministerial Conference on "Responsible Use of Medicines & Anti-Microbial Resistance" at Amsterdam. Since then, there has been substantial progress to address the twin issues of rational use of medicines and the anti-microbial resistance. Speaking at the signing, Ms. Edith I Schippers said that this MoU will strengthen ties between the two countries in the areas of health. She stated that the Netherlands has experience of PPPs in health; the two countries can cooperate in this area to learn from the experiences of both. Present during the MoU signing were K Desiraju, Secretary, MoHFW; Dr Katoch, DG ICMR, Sh Jagdish Prasad, DG CGHS and senior offices of the Ministry. Mr Alphonsus Stoelinga, Ambassador of the Netherlands to India was also present.
Nation statue has been designed by the sculptor Gautam Pal, who was flown in from Kolkata for the unveiling ceremony. The black statue shows Mahatma sitting and reading a book in a contemplative and meditating mood. The inscriptions on the pedestal tell his story - My Life is my message. Incidentally the location has been named as the Avenue of Peace. The presence of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in this city is a re-
Zabarwan Times
flection of the role of the Swiss city of Geneva in promoting peace, harmony and friendship, values closely associated with Gandhi. India’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative at the UN Offices in Geneva, Dilip Sinha told AIR that the gift also marks the starting point of the activities celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity of August 14, 1948 between India and Switzerland. The emergence of friendship between India and Switzerland formally started with the Treaty of Friendship and Establishment of 1948 and was strengthened in various fields such as development, economy, and culture. The exchanges between the two countries have since then increased.
PCC
Sagar dedicates renovated Dastigeer Sahib Shrine to devotees SRINAGAR, JANUARY 30: The Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj System, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar dedicated the reconstructed and renovated Dastigeer Sahib Shrine here today in presence of Deputy Commis-
while rest of Rs. 4 crore are being spent on strengthening the infrastructure and beautification of the Shrine. It is pertinent to mention that the Shrine was damaged in a fire incident in November 2012 which prompted the
timely completion of the Shrine. He paid obeisance at the Shrine and prayed for lasting peace, progress and prosperity of the State. He said that the glory of Shrine has been restored as per the public expectations and keeping in view the heri-
sioner Srinagar, Vice Chairman, J&K Waqf Board and Sajadah Niasheen Dastigeer Sahib Shrine Khanyar and other senior officers of District Administration. The reconstruction work of the Dastigeer Sahib Shrine is being carried out at Rs. 10 crore out of which Rs. 6 crore have already been expanded
Government to assign the project to the Jammu and Kashmir Project Construction Corporation. On this occasion, Mr. Sagar said that the reconstruction work of the Shrine was completed in a record 14 months. He appreciated the executing agency and people for speedy execution of the project whose joint efforts ensured
tage aspect of the Shrine. Mr. Sagar reviewed ongoing works in the Shrine on this occasion. He urged the Shrine management to provide every facility to the devotees during the Urs period which is commencing from January 31, 2014. A large number of devotees were also present on the occasion.
Congress Committee. While paying rich tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his Death Anniversary, the speakers said that Gandhi Ji symbolizes secular and democratic India. They said Gandhi throughout his life worked for amity and brotherhood between all sections of the society and fought for the upliftment of weaker and under developed sections. They said Gandhi Ji kept the all sections whether they were Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians etc together and fought for their rights and he gave a direction to the people of the Country. They described Gandhi Ji as an apostle of peace and staunch believer of non-violence whose sacrifices and teachings are indelibly on the global conscience. The speakers while paying glowing tributes to Father of the Nation said the people of the country shall always remain indebted to Gandhi for the sacrifices he gave for the Nation. A stanch believer of non-violence Gandhi Ji played a pivotal role for making the Country and people self reliant in every field. At the end, Vice President J&K Pradesh Congress Committee impressed upon the Congress Leaders and workers to follow the steps of Mahatma Gandhi and work for the poor and needy and down trodden people, as Congress party itself as a instrument of service to the people.
PDP He also assured the delegation that he would take up this matter with the Defence Ministry. Other members of the delegation included Haji Latif Khan, Sarpanch, Majid Khan, Ghulam Nabi Dar, Mohammad Ramzan Khanday, Master Zalal-ud-Din, Ghulam Rasool Wani, Choudhary Shafi Khatana, Mohammad Ramzan and Haji Ghulam Nabi Wani. (KNS)
Haider Police swung into action and tried to control the crowd. However, some of the youth started hooting and pelted snow-balls on police resulting in chaos and confusion,” one of the eyewitnesses told CNS. As the crowd tried to break police barricades, police charged them with canes and in the clashes at least four policemen and some spectators were injured. A police official told CNS that some enthusiastic youth tried to come close to the actor while to ensure safety of the crew members and leading actors, police checked the crowd. “Some of the youth started hooting and pelted snow-balls. Our four cops were injured, however, the situation was brought under control after some time,” he said and confirmed that Bollywood crew left without shoot the sequence for the movie. (CNS)
Land construct the University but to their dismay, the Government handed over job of construction to CPWD and this agency ignored the local labours. “My land was taken from me on the condition that my son would be given a government job. The State Government even said that local labours will earn a lot when the construction work for the Central University will commence. Construction is on but no a single local labour was used for this purpose,” one of the protestors Rouf Ahmed told CNS. The protestors demanded that contract for construction should be given to locals so that they will use local labour. The appealed to the government to fulfill its promises in the nick of time and threatened that in case government fails to keep its promises they will come on roads and start an agitation in the district.
Power be restored in the affected areas without any delay. Similar protest was reported from South Kashmir’s Kulgam town where people alleged that PDD is not following their curtailment schedule. In several parts of Old Srinagar City, people also took to streets and protested against the shortage of electricity. Residents of Khanyar and Saida Kadal areas blocked the roads that led to traffic chaos. The protestors alleged that these areas witness frequent and unnecessary power cuts. “PDD has miserably failed to supply uninterrupted power supply. Not speaking of continuous power supply, even curtailment schedule is not being followed and it is adding to the woes of people,” they said. Police and PDD officials reached on spot and assured protestors that electricity would be supplied to the affected areas as per schedule. (CNS)
Power persons” and “ignoring MSW candidates” and would like to put on record that out of 462 applications, 105 candidates had applied for Project Coordinator Post and 10 including 2 female candidates were shortlisted in this category. For Field Supervisor Post, JKYF received 219 applications out of which 40 including 10 female candidates were shortlisted. For Accountant post, 10 candidates including 3 females were shortlisted for which 117 applications had been received,” the statement reads. The statement issued by JKYF further states that in Project Coordinator category 4 MSW candidates were shortlisted out of 10. Similarly, for Field Supervisor post, 5 MSW and 04 IPCS candidates were shortlisted. . “J&K Yateem Foundation practices transparent mechanism not only in implementing welfare and rehabilitation programmes for orphans, widows and destitute but also in ensuring competent, professional and dedicated workforce to run the projects and other international programmes in the public interest,” the statement reads. (CNS)
First meeting of scientific advisory committee KVK Budgam held in SKAUST BUDGAM, JANUARY 30: Scientific Advisory Committee of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Budgam was held in extension hall of SKAUST under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor SKAUST, Dr. Tej Pratap. Director, Agriculture Extension, District Co-ordinator KVK, Budgam, Faculty members of SKAUST, officials from KVK, NABARD and district administration Budgam were also present in the meeting. Progress report of KVK for the year 2013 was presented and an annual action plan for 2014-2015 was also discussed in the meeting in which inputs from all members of advisory committee and
some farmers from district Budgam were also taken into consideration. District Co-ordinator, three Technology Transfer Centres (TTC) on this occasion said that have been established in the district and four shall be established in Khansahib, Nagam, Beerwah and Khag in the next annual plan. Blackening and russeting in pear and brooming disease in walnuts have been identified as an issue prevalent in Budgam in field trials on farm and were discussed in detail. Vice chancellor directed the concerned scientists from horticulture and pomology to work in tandem to find solutions to these issues.
Shabir inaugurates KS&SL Public Health Museum at Regional Institute Dhobiwan Tangmarg SRINAGAR, JANUARY 30: The Minister for Health, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Khan visited Regional Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Dhobiwan Tangmarg, accompanied by Director Health Services, Kashmir, Dr. Saleem-ur-Rehman and Mission Director NRHM J&K, Dr. Yashpal Sharma. The Minister was apprised of the activities being conducted at the said Institute by Director Health Services Kashmir where ERTC/BLS and Sim Mom (Gyn/Obs) trainings were being imparted to the Medical Officers and Lady Medical Officers besides paramedics by trainers, while applauding the innovations and move within the department, the Minister during his speech said that such trainings are of utmost importance in saving lives besides have a pivotal role for betterment of patient care and sustenance of life together. He further said that such trainings are essential component of health care delivery system to reduce mortality rate and enhance skill of paramedics at grass root levels.
The Minister inaugurated Kashmir Skills and Simulation Laboratory (KS&SL) and also Public Health Museum at the said Institute. Mr. Shabir while giving brief on budgetary provision said that budget under NRHM has been doubled upto Rs. 424 crore which also is an achievement
for managing better patient care facilities especially at far flung areas. He further said that 200 ambulances and 675 sub centres shall be soon in place for improving the infrastructure and patient care in health sector of the State. The Minister distributed certificates among the participants
and were instructed to serve better way with the acquired skill and qualifications. The Minister was also informed by about importance of training in BLS/ERTC where 4500 personnel have been trained in such practices including drivers, media personnel and other social activists.
Minister releases JKTDC Calender-2014
Mir asks stake holders to be ready for big booming next tourist season: Mir ‘Conference halls at Hotel Jammu Residency, Alpine Patnitop made operational’
JAMMU, JANUARY 30– Expressing confidence that ensuing summer would be more booming in tourist related activities in the State, Tourism Minister, Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir Thursday asked all stakeholders to be prepare for booming next tourist season-2014. “The concerned government agencies and private tourism players have joint responsible in making the stay of tourists comfortable in the State by way of providing them up to the mark accommodation and befitting services”, he said asking them to rise to the occasion to face the challenge and make the season more than successful. Speaking at an interactive session with the representatives of Tour and travel Operators, Hotel associations and members of Trade and Commerce, after releasing the Calendar of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) here today, the Minister said that government would provide every possible assistance to the private sector in upgrading infrastructure and making tourist service excellent. The Minister said that showcasing State’s tourist potential in foreign countries like Germany, which has now lifted negative advisories against Jammu and Kashmir has become more important in the changed scenario to sell the State as choicest tourist destination for conventional, adventure, sports and heritage tourism. He said government would facilitate participation of private
partners in such campaigns to be organized by the Tourism Department outside the country. Commissioner Secretary, Tourism, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad, Director Tourism, Jammu, Mr. Soujanya Sharma, Managing Director, JKTDC, Mr. Shamim Ahmad, President of Commerce Mr. Y.V. Sharma, Secretary Chamber of Commerce Jammu, Ex-Chairman Jammu Chapter IATO Capt. Anil Gover, besides representatives of Tourism Trade Associations attended the interaction session. The main objective of holding the interactive session with the representatives was to make them aware about the infrastructure Development and the Premiere Banding of the Hotels which have come under the Brand name of Kongposh meant for the upper segment class of the Tourist. It is pertinent to mention here that two Conference Halls with the capacity of 60 persons and 30 persons has been made operational at Hotel Jammu Residency and Hotel Alpine Patnitop. Minister Tourism emphasized for close Co-Ordination between JKTDC and the Travel & Tour Operators and Chamber of Commerce by providing special Tariffs to these organizations in order to promote Tourism Sector domestically and internationally. Minister said that State Government is working on a comprehensive tourist development road map to rejuvenate tourist activities in the conventional areas and showcase new areas for national and international tourism. He also cited the incentives being given to the private players in tourism sector and said that government is eager to give impetus to it to attain new highs. The Minister said that strenuous efforts are being made to promote the tourism potential of Jammu. He said besides upgradation of tourist related infrastructure, heritage and adventure tourism is be being also explored fully. He said the government endeavours to
ensure the stay of Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims for more days in city of temples and in this regard the necessary infrastructure is being upgraded at Patnitop, Sarnsar, Mansar, Bhaderwah, besides Bani, Basooli and Rajouri and Poonch by incurring a whooping amount. He said the work on Mabarak Mandi cable car project would be taken up very soon as all decks in this regard has been cleared. Referring to the initiatives taken by JKTDC for upgradation of its assets besides captivating more tourists to visit the State, Mir said hotel accommodation at Yousmarg has been completed. He said the work on budgeted accommodation at Gulmarg and Sonamarg is at final stage of completion adding that work on business center at Patnitop, tourist huts at Sanasar is nearing completion. He said government would also undertake upgradation of tourist huts at Patnitop and Pahalgam soon at an estimated cost of Rs 1.50 crore. Mir said, in order to further strengthen the JKTDC infrastructure, the government has mooted draft project reports (DPRs) worth Rs 12 crore to the Centre for funding to construct hotels and other required infrastructure at Katra, Qazigund and Dalwatch. On the occasion, Commissioner Secretary, Tourism, Mr. Zafar Ahmad said that development of tourism especially heritage, adventure, pilgrim, eco-tourism and conventional tourism are being focused to restore the State’s tourism glory and generate wide-ranging economic avenues for the people. The Commissioner Secretary also presented resume of the other developmental activities underway in the State for the promotion and upgradation of tourism.Managing Director, JKTDC, Mr. Shamim Ahmad on the occasion gave detailed resume of the activities of the Corporation. He said the Corporation management is making earnest efforts to make it more commercial and vibrant institution.
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NEWS SFC earns Rs 114.12 cr, extracts 26 lakh cft
Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
Srinagar | friday
Mian Altaf reviews working of Corporation JAMMU JANUARY 30: Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmad has asked the State Forest Corporation (SFC) authorities to speed up timber extraction process, identified earlier, especially in Chenab Valley to ensure early transportation of the extracted timber to the depots of the Corporation. He asked them to take necessary measures for maintaining balance in demand and supply of timber. The Minister was reviewing the demand and availability of timber in SFC depots at an officers meeting held here today. Secretary Forest, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Managing Director SFC, Chief Conservator Forest, Jammu besides other senior officers of SFC and Forest Department were present on the occasion. Giving details of the working Corporation has earned revenue of plementation of plantation projects of the Corporation, the Manag- Rs. 114.12 Crore on sale of the timber, on commercial lines and setting up ing Director said that Corporation he added. of wood based manufacturing units has sold 18.74 lakh cft timber and The Managing Director, while would open new means of income extracted 26 lakh cft against the suggesting the diversification of the and will go a long way improving set target of 40 lakh cft during theAgency Corporation, said that the cultivation financial position of the organiLone News Kangan Khan the News Agency Ganderbal current financial year till date. The and trading in medicinal plants, imzation.The Minister instructed the
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‘Launches Rs. 9.5 lakh dev works at Nanak Nagar’
Earlier, Mr. Bhalla visited Nanak Nagar Sector-8 and kick started construction work of lanes and drains with grating facilities, for which
under new comprehensive plan envisaging creation of adequate infrastructure for improvement of basic amenities. The Minister said people’s participation is imperative in the development of the state as they are the main stakeholders in this process. He called upon the people to extend their cooperation and keep a watch on the implementation of schemes for better results on the ground.
April 20-May 20
Attend a lecture or some sort of intellectual discussion in which people are actively expressing their ideas and strong opinions, Taurus. It’s important for you to feel the passion of another who is incredibly focused on his or her dream. Get inspired today by those who speak with passion even though you might not necessarily agree with what they’re saying. If you don’t, feel free to respond with an equally passionate retort.
officers of SFC and Forest Department to work in a coordinated manner to ensure early lifting of fallen trees from the forest to save them from rotting in open. He said on the one hand it will help to meet public demand and on other hand fetch in-
lege Symposium on ‘’Rights of Girl Child” to highlight the importance of wellbeing of girl child in a progressive nation. The symposium was followed by an awareness rally taken out at Government College for Women Parade Ground Jammu with participation of students from different city colleges. The event was inaugurated by Chairperson Jammu and Kashmir State Social
demands tehsil HQ status to Keegam
cal Bodies, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora, who is also a member of the cabinet subcommittee (CSC) on creation of news administrative units in various parts of the state and submitted a memorandum demanding tehsil headquarter status to
Keegam area of hilly district Shopian. The deputation pleaded that Keegam has reviewed as Niabat for about last forty five years and is comprising of a population
of about 60, 000 souls. It is also a central place having equal distant from Pathwar halqa Keller and Allowpora-Sheikhpora. The deputation requested Mr. Jora to plead their case in the CSC for according tehsil status to Keegam adding that the
people of the area have already registered their demand in this regard with the CSC during its recent visit to Shopian district. Mr. Jora assured the deputation that their demand shall be considered on its merits asking the deputation to apprise the chairman of the CSC, Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Tara Chand also in this regard. The deputation expressed their gratitude to the Minister for giving them a patient hearing. The deputation also highlighted some problems confronting people of the Shopian area on account of civic amenities and also reviewed functioning of the Municipal Committee, Shopian. They demanded installation of more street lights in the town besides improving civic and sanitation conditions in different wards of the Municipal Committee Shopian. Mr. Jora assured that concerned officers of the Municipal Committee Shopian shall be asked to provide best possible civic amenities to the people adding that availability of funds shall not be any constrained in this regard.
nHM Tableaux on republic day 1035 medical personnel being engaged besides setting up 234 MHTs, 9 DEICs under RBSK JAMMU JANUARY 30: The Tableaux of National Health Mission (NHM), Jammu and Kashmir presented at the 65th Republic Day parade in M.A.M Stadium, Jammu has largely been appreciated by the people from different walks of life. The theme of the tableaux was Rashtriya Bal Sawasthya Karyakaram (RBSK), an ambitious health care programme launched recently throughout the country which is aiming at providing comprehensive care to all the children from zero to 18 years of age in the community. The main focus of the programme shall be on screening of children for early detection and free treatment of 4 (four) dozes (Ds) viz birth defects, childhood diseases, deficiencies and development delays including dis-abilities. Under the scheme, each block of the state shall have two dedicated mobile health teams, each team comprising two medical officers (Ayush) (one male and one female), one ANM and one pharmacist with proficiency in computer for data management. The implementation mechanism of the RBSK comprises of screening of new born through ASHAS during home visits from birth to 6 weeks and screening of children enrolled in Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) and Government Aided Schools by Mobile Health
Teams followed by Referral and free-of-cost services including surgical interventions in 9 District Early Intervention Centres (DEICs) to be set up in different parts of the state or pre-Identified Tertiary Level Institutions. As many as 119 medical personnel including Paediatricians, Dental Surgeons, MBBS Doctors, Physiotherapist, Audiologists, Speech Therapists, Psychologists and Paramedics are being engaged to run these DEICs. The Mission Director National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) J&K, Dr. Yashpaul while briefing about the broad features of RBSK said that about 1035 personnel shall be engaged in the state for implementation of this prestigious health scheme. These include 916 personnel for 234 newly created Mobile Health Teams including 448 AYUSH Doctors, 234 ANMs and 234 Pharmacists. “In addition, as many as 119 medicos for manning 9 DEICs are being engaged to implement RBSK in the State in a befitting manner”, Dr. Yash Pul added. He said about 26 Programme Management Units shall also be established under the programme. He said NHM Help Line and MCTS Call Centres with 18001800104 for Jammu and 18001800102 for Kashmir division have also been created for the convenience of general masses.
come to the Corporation. Mian Altaf asked the authorities of SFC to check unnecessary expenditures in the corporation and put all human and other resources in use, besides taking necessary measures for improving the financial health of the Corporation.
JKSSWB holds Inter-College Symposium on ’Rights of Girl Child Welfare Board Mrs Khem Lata Wakhlu. Speaking on the occasion, the Chairperson highlighted the importance for protection and safeguarding of rights of the girls. She said that no society can dream of progress without extending equal rights to womenfolk to grow socially and achieve success in life. She called for launching a vigorous campaign in this regard so that the existing discrimination in the society against the girl child was minimized. The Colleges that participated in the Inter-College Symposium were M.A.M College, Women College Parade Ground, Science College, Commerce College, Government College for Engineering and Technology, College of Education, Degree College Paloura and Women College Gandhi Nagar, Jammu.Others, who attended the programme, included
Director Colleges, Prof. T.A. Kawoosa, Principal Women College Parade Ground Prof. Hemla Aggarwal, senior officers, different heads of departments, NGOs, students, staff of Colleges besides Creche Works and Counsellors of FCC centres. Earlier, Executive Director and Secretary J&K SSWB Mr. Aamir Ali presented welcome address and highlighted the activities of the Board. Later, Mr. Athar Ali presented vote of thanks. Prof. Rita Jitender, Dr. Amita Gupta, Advocate Deepika Singh Rajawat delivered lectures on various topics. Wahid Anjum of Government MAM College bagged first position, while Shriya Raina of Government College for Women Parade and Neha Jamwal of College of Education Jammu were declared as 2nd and 3rd respectively.
Pathribal delegation calls on Governor
Shopian deputation calls on Jora JAMMU, JANUARY 30: A deputation led by former Minister, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Khan today called on the Minister for Urban Development and Urban Lo-
Aries
March 21-April 19
Taurus
Wakhlu advocates for creating mass awareness
senior officers from JDA and JMC were also present on the occasion. Interacting with the gathering of students and faculty members of Jammu University, Mr. Bhalla said that the place would facilitate the students, visitors, organizers of various functions as well as faculty members for parking their vehicles to avoid traffic congestion within the complex. The Minister further said
HOROSCOPE Make your time spent with others much richer by contrasting it with time spent absolutely alone, Aries. You’ll find that the more energy you can focus on yourself and your own thoughts for a while, the more you will have stored up in your emotional battery to share with others when you’re with them. Be more selfish with your energy in terms of making sure that your inner sanctuary is being tended to regularly.
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 30: that the Government has Government has earmarked Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora Minister for Housing, Hortiframed a comprehensive plan Rs. 9.5 lakh. News Zargar Newsasked Agency culture and Culture Bhat Raman toAgency facilitateMagam the people with The Minister theKunzar Bhalla today inaugurated infrastructural complete theAgency allottedSumbal Dar Newsall Agency Beerwah facilities JMC toBashir News parking lot near Jammu Uni-News across the State. worksSaleem within stipulated time Pattan Reshi Agency Safapora News Agency versity (JU) auditorium, comframe by using quality mateBasharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore pleted at an estimated cost of rial. He warned that there Altaf News Agency Pulwama Agency Rs. 60 lakh by Jammu MuniciwouldJavaid be no News compromise onQazigund pal Corporation. the quality of work adding Jeelani News Agency Baramulla G.M News Agency Sopore Commissioner Jammu that Sultan the Government wasHandwara Shah News Agency Kupwara News Agency Municipal Corporation (JMC) committed to create durable Sheikh News Mr. Kiran Wattal, ViceYounis Chair- News Agency Langate infrastructure with a Agency prospec- Islamabad Reshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agency Tral man Jammu Development tive planning. Authority (JDA) Mr. Kuldeep Mr.Badru BhallaNews said Agency that Gov-Bijbehara Turray News Agency Tral JAMMU, JANUARY 30: Raj Khajuria, Administraernment hasNews started devel-Arwani Jammu and Kashmir State SoRahi News Agency Kulgam Malik Agency tor Jammu University Mr. D opment in all the periphery cial Welfare Board (JKSSWB) News Agency Byepass Shaheen Agency Kargil L Choudhary besidesRah other localities in the News urban pockets today organized an Inter Col-
Bhalla inaugurates parking lot at JU
31. 01 .2014
JAMMU, JANUARY 30: A delegation of various villages around Pathribal, under the leadership of Peerzada Mansoor Hussain, MLA for Shangas, called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor of J&K today, and appealed him to intervene for securing justice to the families of the Pathribal encounter victims, the incident which took place in the year 2000.Mr. Hussain and the Sarpanches and others in the delegation apprised the Governor about the serious grievance of the people about Army’s decision to close the case, as reported in the media.
Deputation calls on Mir, demands Tehsil status for Keegam
JAMMU, JANUARY 30: A deputation from Keegam area of Shopian District today called on Cabinet Sub Committee (CSC) member and Minister for Agriculture Production, Mr Ghulam Hassan Mir, and submitted a memorandum demanding grant of Tehsil status for Keegam Niabat of Shopian district.Interacting with the deputation members, led by Congress leader and former Minister Mr. Ghulam Hassan Khan, the Minister said that the representations received from the people of the concerned areas would be submitted to the Administrative Secretary, Revenue Department for examination. He said that the government is scrutinizing the representations received by the Committee during its visit to various areas of the State recently adding that the demand for creation of Tehsil with headquarter at Keegam would also be looked into.
CS reviews progress on Jammu -Udhampur road stretch
JAMMU, JANUARY 30: Chief Secretary, Mohammad Iqbal Khandey, Thursday reviewed the progress of work on 4-laning of National Highway Project in a meeting, he chaired here. The project is being executed by the National Highway Authority of India. While receiving brief about issues involving structures coming in the way of the alignment and
widening of the National highway at some spots between Jammu-Udhampur stretch of the road, the Chief Secretary asked the concerned authorities to take necessary measures to remove these bottlenecks at the earliest. “It is a project of national importance requiring expeditious completion for the benefit of the people”, he said, adding that compensation cases and removal of some remaining structures at some spots be addressed promptly and the project completed in all respects at the earliest. Chief Secretary called for greater cooperation between various agencies involved with the project and asked Divi-
May 21-June 21
Your imagination is in all likelihood drawing you to faraway places, Gemini, and you may find yourself daydreaming constantly. At times, these dreams may seem to get in the way of your usual rational, linear way of dealing with everyday life. Remember that these dreams have been sent to you for a reason and that you should try to comprehend and consciously integrate their messages into your everyday waking life.
Cancer June 22-July 22
Remember that there is a spirit in everything around you, Cancer. Just because we can’t perceive something with our eyes, ears, nose, mouth, or fingers doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist. Pay respect to the force field that surrounds us, and to the animate and inanimate forms that exist in our everyday life. You are apt to perceive life as if it were a prayer today.
Leo
July 23-August 22 Share more of your passion, love, and happiness with the people around you, Leo. Put your energy toward a group project and work to co-create something much more magical and meaningful than anything you could create on your own. You aren’t alone in this world, and you will find that you have a great deal to learn from working in close relationship with other people who share similar ideals.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Drastic shifts in your emotions might be causing you to doubt certain instincts or feelings you have, Virgo. Instead of getting frustrated by your inability to make rational sense of these emotions, enjoy the ride that they’re offering you. Having these emotions and being able to express them freely is a great gift. Don’t try to hide or suppress anything you feel. If it seems like you’re on a roller coaster today, don’t try to jump off halfway through the ride.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Today is one of those days in which you just want to lie on your back on the ground and look up at the clouds, Libra. Your artistic mind can easily spot one that looks like a dragon, one that is a chair, and one that looks just like your mother. Pull someone down onto the grass with you and show that person what you see. There is a reason why your brain draws attention to certain shapes and not others. Find important clues in this information.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 You’re most likely going to be very drawn to the things that you can’t have, Scorpio. Instead of getting upset and frustrated by the fact that you aren’t getting what you want, look for the lesson in the situation and the reason why you really don’t need those things at all. Things with extremely high sentimental value may seem very important to you right now.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
You may find yourself staring at a blank page for what seems like hours on end while you try to get down on paper what you really want to say, Sagittarius. Perhaps your motivation is flagging. Your mind is soaring in the clouds today and it may be hard for it to keep on task. However, once you start the act of writing or whatever job you need to finish, things seem to flow to completion on their own.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
4-laning of nH-1a
Stresses on resolving bottlenecks
Gemini
sional commissioner, Jammu to monitor and review the progress fortnightly. He also called on Deputy Commissioners to actively get involved on ground to resolve bottlenecks. He said, he would hold a review meeting next month on the action taken and review the progress on Jammu-Udhampur, Ramban-Banihal stretch of the NH-1A project. Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Shantmanu, Secretary Revenue, Vinod Koul, Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, Project Director NH-1A and other senior officers were present in the meeting.
If you find yourself needing to do something in order to escape your life for a while, Capricorn, then maybe you need to examine your life more closely. Instead of trying to figure out the best means of escape, try to figure out the best means for making your life more enjoyable. Make sure you’re happy with yourself and the things that you’re doing. If you aren’t, it’s time for a change.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Keep your fun-loving spirit pure, Aquarius. Be careful that you aren’t making witty conversation or entertaining jokes at someone else’s expense. This type of behavior is likely to come back around and haunt you later. Keep things positive at all times, especially when you’re tempted to spread information about someone that isn’t exactly flattering. Today is one of those days in which you could easily slip and get your foot stuck in your mouth.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 Your emotions are likely to deceive you today, so be careful about making a judgment about something, Pisces. Make sure that you take your time and gather all the necessary facts or else you may end up making an impulsive decision that you regret later on. The situations and people you encounter today are apt to be stubborn, emotional, or unreliable. If this is so, simply back away and address these things at some other time.
EDITORIAL/ OPINION Better road connectivity must for better tourism
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ourism has assumed the importance of a big industry in the world and this sector is generating a lots of employment opportunities in every country particularly those countries which have abundance of natural beauty. Jammu and Kashmir is one of the places which has been bestowed with magical beauty by the nature. Kashmir valley called the paradise on earth attracts lakhs of tourists every year who enjoy the valley and its surroundings which have everything to offer to the lovers of natural beauty. It has dozens of places like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Kokernag, Varinag besides many more which have been explored recently or are yet to be explored. These places are full of attractions and solace which a tourist wants to have for some days off the routine work. However despite being full of nature’s gifts Kashmir valley dopes not have proper roads connectivity for these tourist places which comes as a big hindrance in their visit when they are on tour to this paradise on earth. The J&K government should prioritize this sector and should construct better roads leading to these tourist places so that the journey of a tourist becomes more comfortable and enjoyable. The better road connectivity will also help to avoid traffic jams as has been witnessed during the peak tourist season this year. When a tourist visits a place, he wants first better road connectivity, and then of course other facilities like standard accommodation and the usual facilities needed for a comfortable tour. The J&K government can take advantage of the Prime Minister’s Gram Sadak Yojna and can construct good roads for tourist places so that his industry flourishes and helps in creating more and more jobs for our educated as well as other youths. In the absence of road connectivity all the efforts of developing a better tourism will totally fail and will not yield good results. In addition to this the road connectivity of the valley to other parts of the country has to be augmented on priority basis and the widening work of Srinagar- Jammu national highway should be completed as soon as possible. The completion of this national highway will give a boost to the tourist arrivals which in turn will stabilize and strengthen the economy of the state.
Daily
Zabarwan Times
Srinagar,Friday 31 January 2014
Textiles Exports: Ways Ahead
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laying the role of the most important constituent of the manufacturing sector in India mainly due to its contribution towards employment, the Indian textile and clothing sector adds about 14 per cent to industrial production and four per cent to Gross Domestic Product. Its current share in total exports is around 11 per cent. The textile export basket consists of readymade garments, cotton textiles, man-made fiber textiles, wool and woolen goods, silk, handicrafts, coir and jute. During the XIth Plan period, exports during the first four years showed varying trends. The year 2008-2009 saw a decline in exports mainly on account of the global recessionary conditions and financial crisis. Exports during fiscal year 2009-2010 marked an increase of 6.92 per cent as the world recovered from the recessionary conditions. The recovery continued in the years 2010-11 and 2011-12 before plateauing out in 2012-13. The Ministry of Commerce suggests ways to accelerate the pace of export growth, if the country has to meet with the obligations arising out of a Balance of Trade (BoT) deficit and Current Account Deficit (CAD), a target of USD 45.50 for the textile and clothing sector by 2013-2014 should be met at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 27.72 per cent during the three year period i.e. 2011-12 to 2013-14. The trends during the Eleventh Five Year Plan show that against an expected target of achieving USD 55 billion by the end of the 11th Plan, exports from the textile and clothing sector are likely to reach around USD 32.35 billion. The labour intensive garment sector needs to be encouraged to increase exports and also seek higher investments. While efforts are being made separately through the National Fiber Policy to enhance the production of man-made fiber yarns and fabrics, there is also a need to encourage exports of man-made fiber textiles in all their value added forms. On the other hand, with India having the strength of home grown cotton and a vibrant spinning industry, export of cotton textiles in their value added form as yarns, fabrics and home textiles will find customers around the world. To achieve the target of USD 65 billion by the end of the Twelfth Five Year Plan, there is a need to put in place differentiated strategies for different products considering the vast diversity in product range and fiber content in the sector. Deliberations across various relevant sectors have put on the drawing table different strategies to meet the projected export targets. To achieve the projected export growth targets, the need of the hour is to provide adequate confidence to the exporters to substantially enhance their market presence in traditional markets and aggressively seek out new markets. At the same time, it is pertinent to continue with the existing incentive schemes such as duty drawback, tax benefits, and interest subvention scheme. Improvement in infrastructure related to exports, reducing transaction costs, and providing full
refund of all indirect taxes and levies, form the three crucial pillars of the strategic reforms. A renewed thrust needs to be given to Technology Upgradation with special emphasis on eco-friendly products and green technology. Textile Research Associations should also be upgraded and encouraged to seek collaboration with overseas testing laboratories and other like minded institutions. The mulling process also came up with detailed sectoral strategies for achieving the desired targets in different product export sectors. It is to be noted that while Readymade Garments is the single largest contributor to exports in the textile sector, it is also this sector only which offers the scope for maximum growth. While a substantial increase in production capacities is required on one hand, a huge potential also exists on the other hand for increasing exports by undertaking capacity building in the sector. Indian man-made fiber textile industry has a large production base which is complemented by self-sufficient raw material production base. To meet the objectives of high growth and increasing the competitiveness of Indian man-made fibers, it is necessary to negotiate with important regions of the world like Latin American MERCOSUR countries, Egypt and Morocco in WANA region, Russia and Uzbekistan in CIS countries, to reduce the tariff structure. India has an inherent advantage in the cotton sector owing to the abundant availability of raw material, long tradition of craftsmanship and design and presence across the entire value chain. The export competitiveness of this sector is very significantly affected by the cost and reliability of power supply, logistics and transaction costs. In order to boost the export performance, it is essential that the National Fiber Policy should target enhanced competitiveness of cotton fiber, as well as ensure most judicious and efficient utilisation of the country's strength for sustainable development of all the sub-sectors of the cotton economy through backward and forward integration. The efficiency of the jute industry can be given a boost by providing sufficient incentive to the industry for large scale adoption of available new technology machines. Streamlining the existing Jute Technology Mission Schemes to improve its delivery system can also encourage production and bring improvement in the quality of raw jute. In order to encourage farmers to adopt sericulture practices, there is a need to increase the thrust on developing silkworm races that are not only resistant to drought or change in climatic conditions, but are also disease-resistant, and high-yielding. At the same time, it would be important to design time-bound, result-oriented incentivised schemes for better implementation of research and development activities. There is also a need for the introduction of advanced systems of quality-based pricing mechanism for cocoons for appropriate and
better price realisation by the cocoon growers. In order to make the wool sector globally competitive, it is important to rationalise import duty on raw wool and on woollen yarn and fabrics. On the non-fiscal side, efforts should be focused on implementing programmes for producing highland wool in the hilly tracts of the country. The industry should undertake collaborative research projects with the major wool producing countries, with necessary support from the Government. The research should focus on breed improvement and overcoming the diseases in sheep breeds and producing disease-resistant stud rams. The indigenous development of speciality fibers is highly dependent upon the demand for the fibers in the domestic market from the downstream industry, i.e. the technical textile manufacturers. Therefore, besides a push to the speciality fibers, it is also necessary to focus on technical textile products with a view to increase their consumption and production in India. The Government can mull over a plan to enable Indian or foreign companies to set up manufacturing facilities for speciality fibers, thereby strengthening the raw material base for Indian technical textile industry. Incubation centres could also be set up for transfer of technology and acceptance of innovative technologies by the industry. In order to boost the consumption of technical textile in India, the Government should increase awareness about the usage and benefits of these products. The data from the Textile Ministry shows that during April-May 2013, apart from an upward trend in the total cloth production, almost all sub-sectors of the textile industry showed positive growth. On the other hand, the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS), since its inception on April 1, 1999, has propelled investment of more than Rs. 243721 crores. During 2012-13, the figure for the funds allocated and disbursement made under TUFS stood at Rs. 2,323.03 crores and Rs. 2,151.35 crores respectively. The Planning Commission has now approved an allocation of Rs. 11,952.80 crore for the 12th Five Year Plan. The Restructured TUFS is also expected to trigger additional investments of approximately Rs. 1,50,000 crore during the 12th Five Year Plan. Earlier this year in April, the Ministry launched 21 New Textile Parks approved under Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP). Out of the 21 new parks, six are in Maharashtra, four in Rajasthan, two each in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and one each in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tripura, Karnataka, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. So far, 750 units have been registered with the Ministry as technical textile manufacturing units for availing 10 per cent capital subsidy with a total investment in proposed machineries to the tune of approximately Rs. 4289.9172 crores.
Empowering Mentally Ill to Live with Dignity M ental health represents a critical indicator of human development, serves as a key determinant of well-being, quality of life and is the basis for social stability. Social and economic impact of poor mental health is pervasive and far reaching, leading to poverty, high unemployment rates, poor educational and health outcomes, among others. There is a need for a wider recognition of mental and emotional well-being as a core indicator of human development, and it is necessary to integrate a mental health and psychosocial perspective into all development and humanitarian policies, programmes. Persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities represent a significant proportion of the world’s population. One in four people globally experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. Almost one million people die due to suicide every year and depression is ranked third in the global burden of disease, and is projected to rank first in 2030. In India prevalence of mental disorders is 6-7% for common mental disorders and 1-2% for severe mental disorders. Treatment gap for severe mental disorders is approximately 50% and in case of Common mental Disorders it is over 90%.With such a magnitude of mental disorders it becomes necessary to promote mental health services for the well being of general population, in addition to provide treatment for mental illnesses. Persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities often face stigma and discrimination due to widely held misconceptions about the causes and nature of mental health conditions. Persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities also experience high levels of physical abuse. They encounter restrictions in their exercise of socio-politico-economic rights in the majority of countries, largely due to the false assumption that they are not able to carry out their responsibilities, manage their own affairs and make decisions about their lives. Though mental health conditions are one of the leading causes of disability, persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities often lack resources to maintain basic living standards. Furthermore, they are one of the most neglected and discriminated groups in development policies and programmes. Integration of mental health into development efforts is a cost effective pro-poor strategy. There are cost effective treatments available for most mental illnesses, and effective treat-
ment is associated with reductions in overall healthcare costs. Child development, education, health, social welfare policies and programmes must integrate mental and psychosocial aspects. In India, National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) was started in 1982 with the objectives to ensure availability and accessibility of minimum mental health care for all, to encourage mental health knowledge and skills and to promote community participation in mental health service development and to stimulate self-help in the community. Gradually, the approach of mental health care services has shifted from hospital based care (institutional) to community based mental health care, as majority of mental disorders do not require hospitalization and can be managed at community level. During IX five year plan, District Mental Health Programme was initiated (1996) and at present DMHP is covering 123 districts in 30 States and UTs. In addition to early identification and treatment of mentally ill, District Mental Health Programme has now incorporated promotive and preventive activities for positive mental health which includes; School Mental Health services; College Counselling services; work place stress management and suicide prevention services. Efforts are being made to improve human resource availability in mental health sector so that mentally ill gets required attention and persons having a predilection for mentally illness can get good advice, counselling at the initial stages itself. Components of NHMP are being brought under the overall umbrella of National Rural Health Mission so that the States are able to plan requirements concerning Mental Health services as part of the respective project plans. Rs.623.45 crore has been approved as XI plan outlay (upto 2012) for the National Mental Health Programme. However, recognizing the difficulties/stigma faced by mentally ill persons the Government is in the process of providing a humane, patient centric legal framework for mentally ill patients. The proposed Mental Health Care bill can be a ‘Game changer’ in the life of millions of mentally ill persons who were often victims of inhuman and degrading treatment, abuse and ridicule, both at the community level and at health care delivery establishments. The proposed Mental Health Care bill is significant in
terms of Rights’ Approach that is being adopted to give pre-eminence to the preferences and opinion of the mentally ill person to a major extent. Provisions like ‘Advance Directive’ empowers every person to make directive on how he wishes to be cared and treated for mental illness or not. Other salient provisions are; · A mentally ill person admitted to a mental health establishment shall have a right to receive or refuse visitors, phone calls, mail,etc · A mentally ill person has a right to have treatment in his locality / residence and can prefer only minimum treatment/care at mental health establishments. This is to ensure that the patient is allowed to live in, be part of and not be segregated from society to the extent possible · Every patient has a right to protection from cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment and the mental health establishment shall be safe, clean with facilities for education, recreation, religious practices. · No patient shall be forced to undertake work and subject to compulsory shaving of head and wearing of uniforms. · Mental illness may be made eligible for medical insurance coverage. · Government is duty-bound to plan, implement mental health programmes and create awareness about mental health and illness to reduce the associated with mental illness · Every person will have access to mental health care and treatment at affordable cost, of good quality and of requisite quantity, accusable to the report, their families and care givers · Government should interpret mental health services into general health care services at all levels in all health programmes. · Government shall arrange good quality care and treatment in hospitals funded by government and in case of non availability in nearby place; refund the costs of treatment to the patient. To conclude, a mentally well person means a healthy society and developed nation. It is not enough if we have best health care services, protective legislation unless the stigma, discrimination and widely held misconceptions attached to mental illness are weeded out and community becomes more empathetic towards such persons.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer