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02 March | 2014 | 29 Rabi-Al-Thani 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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http://www.zabarwantimes.com
VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 61 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)
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Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
Passport office holds mela on holiday, finalizes 300 passports
Undergoes surgery at Dubai hospital See More On Page 06
Srinagar March 01: The cavalcade of Jammu and Kashmir’s Agriculture Minister was stoned by youth in Srinagar city outskirts on Saturday, witnesses said. Witnesses told GNS that the cavalcade of Ghulam Hassan Mir, who is Agriculture Minister of the State, was on its way to Tangmarg when it was attacked by youths near Narbal with stones. “The cavalcade of the Mir comprised of nearly fifty vehicles. But once it reached Narbal, youth appeared and pelted stones on the vehicles of the cavalcade,” official sources told GNS. They, however, added that there was no loss of life or injuries. While addressing people at Tangmarg, Mir said the bold decision of the coalition government for creation of new See Attacked On Page 11..
Unclaimed Infant found in Srinagar
Srinagar, Mar 1: A female baby was found here on Friday evening and was later admitted by Srinagar Police in Hospital. According to a police statement issued to KNS, the Police found a female baby near Zeyarat Makhdoom Sahib, in the jurisdiction of Police station Nowhatta last evening. The infant was later admitted by Nowhatta Police in G.P Panth Hospital, Sonwar. She is under treatment and having good health. (KNS)
Kupwara villages protest Govt apathy
FIR lodged against liquor baron Professor S.K.Bhalla against the l i q u o r baron and senior IAS officer then posted in Jammu for conferring ownership
rights in respect of land measuring 5 kanal and 2 marlas comprised in khasra number 781 situated at village Deeli (Marble Market) Jammu. On receipt of the complaint, State Vigilance Organization (SVO) initiated verification and found that the beneficiary was not having any khasra gridwari (Revenue extraction) with re-
gard to the said land and as per Roshni Act, this was sufficient for the Revenue officers to reject the case of Bansi Lal Gupta. During verification it was also found that the government of Jammu and Kashmir had transferred land measuring 154 kanals and 5 marlas in khasra number 781 way back in 2004 and there was an entry in the name of Jammu Development Authority (JDA) in ownership column, but the Patwari concerned did not mention that the girdawari for the land in question has not been made in the name of the applicant (beneficiary). It was also found during verification that land in question was belonging to JDA and was exempted from the preview See Roshni On Page 11..
PM seeks innovative solutions from industry groups for MSMEs
Inside story 12 killed in three bomb blasts targeting Pakistan polio team
Islamabad, Mar 1: At least 12 people were killed and 11 injured when three roadside bombs targeting a polio vaccination team in northwest Pakistan exploded on Saturday. The blasts near the Afghan border were the latest attack on efforts to stamp out the crippling disease in Pakistan, which is one of only three countries where polio remains endemic. Eleven paramilitary troops and one child died when the bombs detonated in the
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On Edit Page Confusing pre-poll political scenario
The coming elections to the Lok Sabha are described as mother of all elections held in the country so far. This is because the country is passing through a critical phase as far as the emergence of political alliances and thoughts are concerned. On one side there are forces led by BJP which have been dubbed as communal in nature and are suspected to create an atmosphere of ill will and hate between different religious groups and communities. Called NDA this political alliance has Shiv Sena, RSS and Bajrang Dal as its ears and eyes and does not have a good patronage in other communities par-
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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:
Light Rain/Snow would occur at a few places over the state.
FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:
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Partly cloudy sky. Maximum &Minimum temperatures will be around 13°C & 2°C respectively.
TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM MINIMUM
SUNSET ON(TUESDAY) SUNRISE ON (WEDNESDAY)
12.20C 0
2.4 C 06:28PM 06:59 AM
New Delhi, March 01: PM Manmohan Singh on Saturday asked industry chambers and associations to come up with innovative solutions to address problems of the MSME sector and provide inputs for policy formulation. Singh also emphasised the need to promote exports from micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The MSME sector is of vital impor-
tance to the national economy, he said, adding the government's initiatives can be successful only with the participation of the private sector and civil society. The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, presented the National Awards to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and also to the Banks for here excellence See PM On Page 11..
Manipulation of opinion polls: EC asks Centre to take action New Delhi, March 01: Acting on a complaint by Congress on alleged manipulation of opinion polls by some organisations, the Election Commission has asked the Centre to take appropriate action in the matter. In a communication to the ministries of Corporate Affairs and Information and Broadcasting, the EC has said the matter involves allegations of conspiracy to prepare false reports/polls for publishing misleading information on consideration of illegal payment of money in return. "Therefore, it is requested that this complaint may be looked into urgently for appropriate action at your end," K Ajaya Kumar, the Principal Secretary of Election Commission of India wrote to the secretaries of the two ministries. The EC said that it has received a complaint from Congress on a sting operation conducted by some of the organisations engaged in conducting opinion polls in connection with the elections. "The allegation is that the organisations have agreed to manipulate the results of opinion polls by tweaking figures for publishing to the general public," the poll panel noted.
Beats defending champion Djokovic
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3 IAS and Revenue officials in Vigilance net Jammu, March 1: After Gulmarg land scam where senior IAS officers are facing prosecution under prevention of Corruption Act for illegally conferring ownership rights to the land mafia at world famous ski resort Gulmarg, a similar Roshni land scam has been unearthed by the State Vigilance Organization by registering FIR vide number 6/2014 against the senior functionaries of Revenue Department and the beneficiary- a highly influential businessman and liquor baron of Jammu namely Bansi Lal Gupta son of Ishar Dar Gupta resident of Gandhi Nagar Jammu. Reliable sources told Srinagar based news gathering agency CNS that a complaint was lodged by prominent social activist
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Roshni Scam Agriculture minister’s cavalcade attacked
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Taking exception to alleged manipulation of opinion poll results by leading agencies, Congress had on Wednesday knocked at the EC's doors seeking its intervention to register an FIR, invoke criminal charges and debar those involved. Expressing happiness over the EC's decision, the Secretary of AICC Legal and Human Department cell K C Mittal said, "The action taken would expose the nexus, manipulations and the vulnerability of opinion polls and the manner in which the fake projections are being used to mislead the people of India to project certain individuals and parties." In its missive to the EC, the Congress had also demanded that the Commission invoke its powers under Article 324 of the Constitution to ensure free and fair polls by issuing instructions banning opinion polls until expiry of 48 hours from the close of polling for Lok Sabha elections. In a letter to Chief Election Commissioner V S Sampath and other ECs, Mittal had sought the Commission's immediate intervention and issuance of appropriate instructions to restrict publication of such opinion polls. See EC On Page 11..
Militants killed in Lolab encounter behind many attacks Bodies of 6 militants identified: Police Srinagar March 01: The Jammu and Kashmir police Saturday said that the seven “foreign militants” killed in north Kashmir’s Lolab valley were involved in various militant activities including killing of a police head constable. Addressing a press conference in Baramulla, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) North Kashmir today JP Singh said: “The procedure of investigation is quite laborious. It has been going on from last 2-3 days,” adding: “During the investigation which we have conducted after the 24 February operation, we have ascertained from our sources and from the people who have been victims of the atrocities of the group, that the group has been involved in various number of militant activities including the killing of a Head Constable, Sanaullah.” The head constable’s throat was slit at Darwan Handwara in Kupwara district. The DIG said: After conflicting reports regarding the February 24 operation, it was important to bring out the real picture. “Locals have rectified and they give their signatures on the identification memos that we prepared.” Singh said that the group was active since June 2013 and they gave slip to police and army twice. “Yes, we had missed them earlier including at Marbal Sopore,” he said. The DIG said that militants were active in the Lolab area.
Army cordons off area after militant attack Kupwara, March 1: Army Saturday claimed that a group of militants fired upon a patrolling party near Dardpora forests in Frontier District Kupwara after which army and Special Operation Group (SOG) personnel cordoned off Ahangar Mohalla to flush the militants. Commander 8 Sector, Brigadier Satbir Singh told CNS that a group of militants fired upon a joint column of Government Forces comprised of jawans of 18 RR and SOG Kupwara when the troopers were conducting search operations in Dardpora forest. “The Army retaliated and there was a brief exchange of fire after See Army On Page 11.. He said the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) and even Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM) have been operating in the area. “They have at times operated together as well as separately,” adding: “LeT has strong presence in the forests of Zachaldara, Lolab and Rajwar in Kupwara district,” Singh said.He identified the slain as Sufian of PaK, Rehman, Qari, Kashif, See Militants On Page 11..
AAP may be clean but for Kashmiris it is like Congress, BJP: Hurriyat (G) ‘Kejriwal, Modi tow faces of same coin’ Srinagar, Mar 1 : While clearing its stand on and about the statements of Aam Admi party (AAP) and on the opening of its office in Jammu and Kashmir, Hurriyat Conference (G) on Saturday said AAP can be a new or special and revolutionary party for the Indian and Indian people, but for Kashmiris this party is not anything different from Congress or BJP. “We consider both Arvind Kajriwal and Narinder Modi as the two sides of a same coin, because both of them favour the illegal and unjust occupation of India in Kashmir,” a statement issued to KNS by Hurriyat (G) reads. The spokesman of Hurriyat (G) said that ‘like the roles of Farooq Abdullah and Mufti Sayeed are dangerous and harmful for the Kashmir cause, so in the same way every person who will vote or support AAP or any other pro-Indian party, will commit an act of treason.’ Hurriyat (G) spokesman Ayaz Akbar said that the Kashmir is not the issue of good or bad governance, but with the internationally recognized as a political issue, it is also a human issue, where large-scale loss of human lives is continue and this issue has snatched the peace, comfort, tranquility and dignity of the common people. He also said that the state of Jammu and Kashmir is suffering from political uncertainty and instability. Hurriyat said that
the AAP is welcomed in Delhi and other parts of India, because the people there are fed up with the corrupt and dishonest policies of other traditional political parties and they want change of the system, but with respect to Kashmir, this slogan of change is unjustified and a cunning act to deceive the common people of Kashmir. Hurriyat (G) said that although all the pro-Indian parties of Kashmir are extreme corrupt and dishonest, but the change of government is meaningless here and the issue of good or bad governance is considered as secondary. “To end the illegal forced occupation of India' and 'to solve the dispute' according to the wishes and aspirations of the people are considered as primary issues in Kashmir,” Hurriyat (G) said adding that the issues of electricity, water and corruption are meaningless, where the life, property and dignity of common people is unsafe and where everyday innocent people are killed. “To expect anything favourable from Kajriwal or AAP, who justifies the illegal occupation of India in the state and who deny the just demand of Kashmiri people like other Indian rulers, is an unrealistic approach were Indian forces has been given license to kill anybody See AAP On Page 11..
Chandra is now Petroleum Secretary New Delhi, March 01: Saurabh Chandra assumed charge as Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Government of India here today. He succeeds Vivek Rae, who demitted office on superannuation yesterday. An officer of the Indian Administrative Service, belonging to the 1978 Batch (UP), Chandra was earlier Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Government of India since 17th April, 2012. Prior to that, Saurabh Chandra was Additional Secretary in Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion. He has a rich experience of working in financial administration in both his cadre and with the Government of India. This include his stint with the Ministry of Finance, Govt of India as Joint Secretary from 2002 to 2007. In a career spanning over 35 years, he has held several posts at different levels in the cadre and with the Government of India. Chandra while working as Director with the Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, he was associated with the setting up of Oman – India Fertilizer Project, perhaps one of the most successful Joint Venture Projects See Chandra On Page 11..
Jamaat reiterates its claim Youth is main source on ‘Geelani’s property’ of success: Mehbooba
Only JeI can decide about the property: Wani Srinagar, Mar 1: Stating that the feud between Huriyat Conference (G) Chairman Syed Ai Geelani and Jamat-e-Islami (JeI) over the Hyderpora property is expected to get resolved in March’s 1st week, Ameer-iJamaat Mohammad Abdullah Wani Saturday reiterated his claim that the property belongs to Jamaat saying that Geelani is its lifelong custodian. JeI chief Mohammad Abdullah Wani told KNS over phone that the recent meet held between the senior JeI members and Huriyat (G) deliberated in detail over the issue and that further discussion over the matter is expected in the coming days. “Geelani Sahib has written a letter to JeI, asking that the issue must be resolved in the meet after his return from New Delhi.” Wani stated further that it is the official stand of the JeI that the Hyderpora property that presently is in the possession of Geelani belongs to JeI and that the Huriyat chief is its lifelong custodian. “After that it is the shoora of JeI that will decide
about the future course for this property.” JeI chief maintained further that during the expected meet to be held between senior JeI members and Geelani in the near future , JeI will try to resolve the issue at the earliest. “The document that is in the court of law wherein Syed Ali Geelani has donated the Hyderpora property to a trust must stand null and void and that it is only Geelani sahib who is the guardian of the property that belongs to JeI.” Pertinently Jamat-e-Islami (JeI) in the past took strong exception to Geelani’s move of handing over ‘his’ property to a charitable trust, stating that the senior separatist was just the custodian of the property that legally belongs to Jamaat. The statement issued to KNS by Jamat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir had maintained the important meet of its Shoora under its Ammer Mohammad Abdullah Wani was called at the party headquarters wherein it was See Jamaat On Page 11..
Jammu, Mar 1: Terming youth as the vehicle of change and main source of success, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti Saturday called upon the young population to use their energies, potential in shaping a new political order in Jammu & Kashmir which shall be based on truth and honesty. According to a statement issued to KNS, addressing a one day youth convention of PDP youth wing at the party headquarters, organized by Vice President Rajender Manhas , Mehbooba said historically it has been the youth which were responsible for bringing social and political revolutions in different societies across the world. She said our youth have all the talent, potential to change the entire outlook of the state which shall guarantee a system where every section of the society will feel empowered enough, but they need to be given chance in the system to find their worth. She said, unfortunately, the youth have be-
come the main victim of post independence political victimization and state repression, with the result they couldn’t realize their real talent, and it is the PDP’s vision to involve them in governance system to establish an honest and accountable structure in J&K.
Mehbooba said the ruling dispensation has miserably failed to address the genuine grievances of the youth with the result they are feeling disillusioned with the system. She said there was an immediate need to understand the anger, frustration of youth and instead of doing that the See Youth On Page 11..
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Srinagar, Sunday 02 March 2014
Roshni of the Roshni scheme. The then District Collector for Jammu vide order number DCJ/HQA/Roshni/08/676-77 dated 9/6/2008 conferred ownership rights for this land in favour of the beneficiary. This order of ownership was passed after the price determination committee headed by then Divisional Commissioner Jammu determined the market value of the said land. Although, SVO has only indicated that the FIR has been first registered against officers and officials of Revenue department Jammu and officers of JDA but the reliable sources told CNS that the then Divisional Commissioner Jammu Sudhanshu Pandey, the then Deputy Commissioner Jammu Hirdesh Kumar Singh, the then vice chairperson JDA Sarita Chouhan and other Revenue officers are in the net of the vigilance. The investigation of the case has been started and the FIR has been formally registered under section 5 (1) (d) read with section 5 (2) prevention of corruption act 2006 and section 120 B RPC and section 17 of J&K state land (vesting of ownership to the occupants) act 2001 and the investigation has been entrusted to Rajesh Sharma Inspector Jammu wing of Police Station Vigilance Organization Jammu. (CNS)
Militants Dawood, Arkam, and one is yet to be identified. Meanwhile, SP Kupwara Mohammad Jabar told GNS that the attack at Drugmulla on November 16 last year was carried out by the same group. On 24 February, army and police claimed to have killed seven unidentified ‘militants’ Dardpora area of Lolab valley in Kupwara district of North Kashmir. However, people and pro-freedom leaders of Kashmir alleged that the slain were locals. The people at Lolab held strong protests against the killings on 25 January and demanded that bodies of the slain should be handed over to them for identification. The area witnessed violent clashes and authorities had to impose curfew in Lolab valley and in Kupwara town. (GNS)
Army which militants managed to fled towards Ahangar Mohalla. We have cordoned off the village and its adjoining areas to flush out the militants which are believed to be three to four in number,” he said adding that search operation is going on in the area. (CNS)
PM in Micro & Small Enterprises Lending at a function here today. Congratulating all the distinguished entrepreneurs who received awards today the Prime Minister expressed the hope that their example will motivate entrepreneurs all over the country to strive for higher standards of performance. The Prime Minister said “The MSME sector is of vital importance to our national economy. It accounts for 8 per cent of the country’s GDP, 45 per cent of its manufactured output and 43 per cent of our exports. It provides employment to over 10 crore people. Our Government has always believed that strong performance of this sector is necessary for us to achieve the objective of rapid and inclusive growth. It is a matter of considerable satisfaction for all of us that the MSME sector has grown at a healthy rate of 10 per cent in recent years.” To promote the growth of the MSME sector the Prime Minister said that additional measures were announced in the Budget for the Financial Year 2013-14. These included continuation of non-tax benefits available for MSMEs for three years even after an enterprise graduated to a higher category. Fifteen additional tool rooms are being set up in the country with World Bank assistance to facilitate skill development and promotion of new technologies in the MSME sector. Regeneration of traditional industries is being given focused attention and this is expected to benefit 4 lakh artisans engaged in these activities. Another recent initiative to assist the MSME sector is the setting up of the ‘India Inclusive Innovation Fund’ (IIIF) for promoting grass-root level innovation. The Prime Minister laid emphasis on the need for promoting exports from the MSME sector and said “only a small fraction of enterprises today has the skills, risk appetite and resources to avail of the opportunities offered by processes of globalization. We need to change this state of affairs. I am happy that the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises has been taking steps to promote bilateral cooperation with other countries in the MSME sector and giving our enterprises exposure to international markets and foreign technologies. The Government’s initiatives can be successful only with the participation of the private sector and civil society. I would urge Industry Associations and Chambers of Commerce in India to come forward with innovative solutions to address constraints that still hamper the development of the MSME sector and also provide constructive inputs for policy formulation and implementation in years to come”. Welcoming the Prime Minister, the Minister of State (Independent Charge), Shri K. H. Muniyappa said this year’s total number of National Awardees are 110, including 37 from MSME Sector, 47 from Khadi & Village Industries and 20 from Coir Industries and 6 from Public Sector Banks. The MSME sector has been accorded high priority to with core emphasis on skill development, employability and entrepreneurship development. Accordingly the 12th Plan allocation has been substantially enhanced to Rs 24,124 crore in 12th Plan as compared to Rs 11,500 crore during 11th plan. Underlining the role and importance of Khadi and Village industries and its reforms in the Indian economy, Shri K. H. Muniyappa said the MSME Ministry is implementing a comprehensive reform package for the khadi sector, through ADB funding namely, the Khadi Reform and Development Programme (KRDP), which includes up gradation and capacity building of 300 khadi institutions and improved marketing with the financial assistance of Rs. 950 crore. Steps are also being taken to distribute 1 lakh modern Chrakhas under KRDP for ensuring higher productivity for the artisans. While highlighting the major flagship programme of the Ministry, Shri K H Muniyappa said that the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) of the Ministry operated through KVIC, has proved to be a remarkable avenue for generation of both self employment and wage employment in a sustainable manner. Since the inception of PMEGP in 2008-09, more than 2.34 lakh new entrepreneurs have been assisted so far and created about 21.26 lakh employment opportunities across the country with Margin Money Subsidy released to the tune of Rs. 5167.00 crores. This year onwards the Ministry has targeted over 100 new enterprises per district every year under PMEGP in all the districts in the country. During 12th Plan period, the Ministry intends to create around 5 lakh such enterprises under PMEGP creating employment opportunities for around 40 lakh persons in the country with an outlay of Rs. 8060 crore. The Minister congratulated all the winners of National Awards and expressed that these awards would imbibe a sense of achievement among the MSME entrepreneurs and encourage them and more such entrepreneurs to reach newer heights in product quality, innovation and global competitiveness.
AAP in the name of AFSPA and other black laws and where people are denied justice in the incidents like Pathribal, Gool, Machil, Markandal etc.” Hurriyat (G) spokesman said that the AAP will try to select the honest people from the state but for the Kashmir and common people, they are enemies like Farooq Abdullah, Mufti Sayed or Saif-ud-Din Soz. He also said that it is a proven fact that Kashmir is not Delhi in anyway, here whoever is brought to power is only the loyal employee of New Delhi. “He does not have his own power or position,” Akbar said while adding that the state of Jammu and Kashmir is directly ruled by the Home Ministry of India through its huge army and intelligence agencies and nothing can happen here without the consent of New Delhi. He said that it is the compulsion of Indian rulers to thrust the civil government in Kashmir, because by doing this they want to shift all the human rights violations and blames upon the local administration in front of world communities. Hurriyat said that the people who are making hue and cry about the AAP and are expecting miracles thereof are actually deceiving the common and simple people of Kashmir. (KNS)
Chandra set up by a Central Public Sector Enterprise/Multi-State Cooperative. He is a Graduate in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur and holds a Diploma in Management.
EC Besides, the party had also sought the EC's intervention in registering an FIR and debarring those involved. The Congress complaint came after a TV news channel claimed that a sting operation conducted by it had shown that some of the agencies which conduct opinion polls before elections are willing to tweak their findings for money. The channel claimed that its sting operation had exposed 11 agencies which conducted opinion polls.
Jamaat unanimously agreed by all shora members that the property of Jamat-e-Islami at Rahmat Abad Hyderpora will remain in custody of Syed Ali Gelaani till he is alive. “After that Jamat is authorized to take final decision over the property.” (KNS)
Youth NC-led government created a system which is fully loaded against them. Referring to the BOPEE scam, she said the tainted person; Mustaq Peer was given extensions after extension, by the government, besides serious charges of corruption and other malpractices pending against him both at the Kashmir University, where he (Peer) has served earlier and at the BOPEE. She said not only this the government has re-employed more than 400 corrupt bureaucrats with a monthly salary of millions of rupees, and the educated youth is asked to work for 3000 Rs/per, which is quite humiliating and insulting. She said youth need meaningful, respectable job avenues and the PDP, with the help of renowned subject experts, has formulated a comprehensive youth empowerment plan which shall take care of their every need. She said keeping in view the intellect and level of education, the youth of the state deserved much better, but the government has badly failed to do anything concrete for their future advancements. She said the so-called employment policy of the government has failed to yield the desired results with the result the unemployment ratio has considerably increased in the state. “The ‘employment and welfare policy’ is cruel joke with the educated unemployed youth of the state,” she said. Castigating the government for betraying unemployed educated youth, Mehbooba regretted that during the last five years the government has brazenly auctioned government jobs to deprive meritorious and deserving candidates and to adjust only undeserving candidates in lieu of money. “Only noticeable achievement of NC-led government is auctioning government jobs in open market and re-employment of the retired officers”, she said Mehbooba said during PD-led government recruitment process was institutionalized to ensure accountability and transparency. She mentioned that more than 80,000 Rehbar-e-Talim (ReT) teachers were appointed. Similarly more than 40000 Anganwari workers were also appointed but not even a single case of favouritism and nepotism was highlighted during the selection processes. “We institutionalized the recruitment process to ensure that only deserving and meritorious candidate should be recruited”, she said. She said that all promises made by the NC during the last assembly elections remained only on papers. “Instead of fulfilling the commitments made to the people during 2008 assembly elections, this government has been deceiving the people by making false statements”, she said. Speaking on the occasion Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra, in charge of the party’s youth wing said that youth have been the main target of the present regime and time has now come to change the present system which can ensure a level playing field for all particularly the youth. He said during last five years, the government has been on a mission to demoralize the human resource by way of suppression and corruption in the system with the result the youth have been pushed to the wall and were not able to seek better lives for themselves. Waheed said PDP is the only party in the state, having a complete youth policy which, besides other things, calls for end to the systematic exploitation of young population and guarantees respectable opportunities for them where they can realise their creative potential and play their role in making the structure accountable, transparent and people friendly. He said youth have an important role to change the political, governance narrative and this year gives them an opportunity to rewrite a new history for the state, where they can live without anyone suspecting them. Calling for a decisive mandate for PDP, he said it is the party’s vision to get respectable settlement of the political problems and bring the state back on rails. Vice President Rajinder Singh Manhas said that the educated youth are the worst victims of wrong policies being propagated Omar Abdullah. Flaying the government for the ‘new recruitment policy’ he said the government has put enormous dent on the future of youth by bringing such a rotten and ruthless policy. Gurdeep Singh Pandey, Abhijeet Singh Jasrotia, Varinder Singh Sonu and others also addressed the youth. (KNS)
Attacked Administrative Units across the state aims to provide governance to the people of J&K at their doorstep for which they had to traverse a long distances for getting their problems resolved in various utility services offices. “The new administrative units will give new impetus to development and ease the administrative problems of people living in farflung areas and will change development landscape of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. Asking the people particularly the youth to involve themselves in the development of the state, he said that “it is due to overwhelming support of the people, the government was able to take such initiatives during last five years to make J&K at par with other states of the country”. (GNS)
US report on Human Rights in Kashmir
Separatists welcome; Mainstream parties pass buck to each other
Srinagar, Mar 1 : Reacting to ‘India 2013 Human Rights Report” published by US state department, wherein the human rights abuse and alleged denial to hold protest rallies in Jammu and Kashmir has been mentioned in detail the pro-freedom leadership on Saturday appreciated the findings while as the mainstream parties passed the buck to each other. Asking US and the international community not to confine their role to issuance of statements over Kashmir’s Human Rights abuses, Chairman Hurriyat Conference (G) Syed Ali Geelani maintained that the international community must play its role on the diplomatic front for the Kashmir resolution. “The report is a welcome sign but at the same time we have to accept that India has never taken these reports seriously and it is hell-bent upon inflicting gross human rights abuses.” The senior separatist leader told KNS over phone that the world community raised concerns in the past as well over the increasing human rights volitions but the statements have done no good to the people of the ‘troubled’ land. The Hurriyat chief while castigating the authorities over ‘imposing’ curbs over the movement of the pro-freedom leaders accused that the just leadership here is continuously being pushed to the wall. “My appeal to the world community is that they must act on the diplomatic front for the resolution of Kashmir in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of the people of the state.” Chairman Hurriyat Conference (M) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq while terming the report a ‘welcome’ sign stated that the concerns of the world community
towards the sufferings of the people of Kashmir must be appreciated. “The report that was recently released by the US secretary of state vindicates that the world is maintaining a close vigil over the situation of the state and it is hoped that it will take the serious note of the situation here in which the democratic institutions are being undermined and the just voice of people is being crushed with the military might.” Mirwaiz added that it is hoped that the contents of the report shall be looked into with the serious approach and that other international organizations would peruse the matter. Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Mohammad Yasin Malik while appreciating the concerns of US over gross HR abuses told KNS that the report is a welcome step and that United States must not remain a mute spectator over the curbs being imposed on the peaceful protest demonstrations. “It is US that played the vital role for the emergence of non-violent struggle in Kashmir and it must take a serious note of the situation in which peaceful voice of leaders and people here is being crushed every day.” The JKLF chief maintained further that US must pursue the contents of the report so that peaceful democratic struggle of the people for their birth right in Kashmir could sustain. Among the mainstream parties, senior Congress leader and a cabinet minister Taj Mohi-ud-Din told KNS that he has not read the report and hence cannot comment on its content pertaining to the state. National Conference while holding Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AF-
Water logging mess:
Protests against MLA Eidgah and Batamaloo
Srinagar, March 1: Irked at alleged government failure to dewater the area, the residents of New Colony Palapora, falling in Eidgah constituency of Srinagar city staged a massive protest against concerned MLA and alleged that time and again residents and representative delegations have been knocking the doors of the MLA Eidgah but of no avail. Men, women and children carrying black flags, placards and banners assembled at Press Enclave Srinagar and held a massive protest. Police swung into action and detained more than two dozen protestors. Amid anit-MLA Eidgah slogans, the protestors said that water logging has made their lives miserable and there was every threat to life and property of the people. “Water has seeped into the first floor of many residential houses and there is water logging everywhere. Not speaking of little children, even elders and young are finding it hard to cross the road in our area,” one of the protesters Ghulam Qadir Ganaie told CNS. The protestors said that the government has miserably failed to come to their rescue. Accusing the ruling National Conference of sleeping over the hardships faced by the people, the res-
idents said: “It seems that the government is busy enjoying warm comforts in Jammu whereas the people of Kashmir have been left to die in tragic situation like ours.” The residents appealed the Divisional Commissioner, Shailendra Kumar and the District Development Commissioner Srinagar Farooq Ahmed Shah to personally look into the matter. “All our previous appeals have gone down the drain. Now our hope is pinned at these two officers,” the residents said while appealing them to visit the area for an on-the-spot assessment of the problem on priority basis. A police official told CNS that all the protestors were released soon after the culmination of the protest. Meanwhile, residents of Hamdania colony Bemina also staged a protest against MLA concerned about the ‘persistent and ever deteriorating problem of water logging that has crept into their colony endangering the dwellings of people. The protests The protestors said that a large number of households have abandoned their ground floors and some have even migrated from the Colony. They appealed to the district administration to look into the matter. (CNS)
Passport office holds mela on holiday, finalizes 300 passports Srinagar, Mar 1 (KNS): The Passport office Srinagar today held a passport mela wherein 300 passports were finalized. According to Firdous Iqbal, Passport Officer Srinagar in order facilitate more applicants to have their Passport applications processed particularly in view of some reports of non-availability of on-line appointment in recent past, the Srinagar passport office held the passport mela at Passport Office Srinagar on Saturday. Pertinently, Saturday is an official holiday observed for any passport office in the country. During the day around 300 Passport cases were finalized for Passports. “It has been our endeavour to help our people in facilitating issuance of passport without any hassles. And with this commitment in mind, we thought to hold this passport mela so that some people who feel online appointments are not available could avail the benefit,” Iqbal told KNS. (KNS)
Youth dies, 3 injured as high tension wire snaps Srinagar, March 01: A youth died and three others including two women received burn injuries after a high tension wire snapped in Verinag of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Saturday. Official sources told GNS that Sabzar Ahmad Mochi, 22, son of Ghulam Nabi Mochi resident of Imooh Verinag received electric shock at his home while repairing an electric wire when, the hight tension line fell on the
local transmission wire. Three pedestrians including two women also sustained burn injuries into the incident and a local Mosque was also partially damaged, they said. The injured persons has been identified as Sumaira Jan, daughter of Ghulam Hassan Khanday of Banihal, Rafiqa Akhter son of Abdul Majeed and Sirajdin Khatariya son of Shahwali Khatariya both hailing from Imooh.
SAP) responsible for the Human rights violations in the state, maintained that the law confers powers to the armed forces without accountability. ”Until AFSPA is not revoked- we cannot stop the HR abuses in Kashmir,” said senior NC leader and Parliament member Mehboob Beg. He added that he continuously has been raising voice in the parliament about the AFSPA revocation and that the chief minister Omar Abdullah has been continuously perusing the case while using the democratic forums. “As far as the curbs on the movement of separatist leaders are concerned, it is done on the bases of the maintenance of the law and order in the state.” Opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) while reacting to the report stated that it is undeniable that there are Human rights crises in the state and that if others have said it is natural. “It is painful that there is no accountability for the government forces and even the cases like Pathribal have been closed in the interest of the so called national interest,” said PDP chief spokesman Naeem Akhtar, adding that there is no violation of any kind that is not committed in the state. Akhtar maintained that the free space is being denied to the people of the state which is one major reason of alienation and separatism. “We believe that putting curbs on those who carry on a campaigning for independence or its other variants have right to profess what they do in peaceful means. Ideas have to be addressed with better and more creative ideas- that is what our party believes in and is trying to promote.” (KNS)
Kupwara villages protest Govt apathy Srinagar, March 01: Dozens of residents of Ringwala and Harli staged a protest outside the office of Deputy Commissioner Kupwara against the government apathy towards their areas. Reports reaching GNS said that the residents of the Ringwala and Harli appeared outside the office of DC Kupwara and shouted anti-government slogans. The residents of these two remote areas of Machil in Kupwara district said that their areas are still cut from the rest of the world as government has not cleared snow from the roads. “We are facing intense difficulties. Government claims that they have cleared snow form all the areas but our area which is 21 kilometers from Machil is still under snow,” said Ghulam Nabi Bhat, while talking to GNS. He said that due non-clearance of snow, two ladies of the village including a pregnant lady died as their families could not take them to hospital due to snow. The pregnant lady has been identified as Sara Begum, 32, wife of Abdul Jabbar Tantray while another lady, Jana Begum, wife of Muhammad Rafiq Lone, whose appendix was to be removed also didn’t managed to reach hospital. Bhat said that due to government negligence, 350 people have lost their lives since last 30 years in Machil and its adjoining areas. “We demand that we should be rehabilitated and government should take steps to safeguard us because we live in avalanche prone areas,” he said. (GNS)
12 killed in three bomb blasts targeting Pakistan polio team Islamabad, Mar 1: At least 12 people were killed and 11 injured when three roadside bombs targeting a polio vaccination team in northwest Pakistan exploded on Saturday. The blasts near the Afghan border were the latest attack on efforts to stamp out the crippling disease in Pakistan, which is one of only three countries where polio remains endemic. Eleven paramilitary troops and one child died when the bombs detonated in the Lashora area in Khyber Agency, 30 kilometres southwest of Peshawar. The troops were protecting a convoy of anti-polio campaigners. Polio persists in Pakistan with militant groups seeing vaccination campaigns as a cover for espionage. There are also long-running rumours about polio drops causing infertility. WHO has warned that Peshawar is the world's largest reservoir of polio. Afghanistan and Nigeria are the other countries where the disease remains.
OFFICE OF THE REGIONAL TRANSPORT OFFICER KASHMIR
NOTICE
Whereas an application for transfer of ownership has been received from Mr. Raja Mudasir S/O Nisar-ul Gani Shah R/O Qayoom Colony Rawalpora Srinagar (transferor) of Tata Safari bearing regd. No JK01R 8171 Chassis no 01360 Engine No 02262 Model 2012 in favour of Mr. Mohd Lateef Sheikh S/O Khalil Mohd Sheikh R/O Krangsoo Mattan (Transferee) and cancellation of hire purchase agreement with J&K Bank Ranipora Anantnag. Now therefore it is notified for the information of the general public that representation / objection if any in this connection with proposed transfer will be received within 12 days from the date of publication of this notice in the office of the undersigned. No any representation/objection shall be entertained after stipulated period. SW
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Zabarwan Times
NO: JKRTO/9820 DATED: 21/02/2014
Sd/-Regional Transport Officer Kashmir
Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt. Quarters , M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 09999964750, 9796 787844
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SUNDAY, MARCH | 02 | 2014
People hail Mir’s contribution on creation of AUs in Tangmarg, Pattan, Beerwa Historic decision to change development landscape of J&K: Mir
sembled at Narbal from morning and its adjoining areas. Mr Mir said that carving out braving cold, snow and rainy weather and took Mr. Mir in a procession of Tehsils, Naibats, Patwar Halqas to Tangmarg where he addressed and new community development a huge public meeting. The enthu- blocks, in particular, will give further siastic crowds were seen chanting boost to rural economy with increasslogans and were also dancing to ing fund flow. He said that every area celebrate the creation of new ad- will receive uniform fund flow under ministrative units in their respective various centrally and state schemes to upgrade the rural infrastructure, areas en-route the procession. Addressing the huge gathering at besides to facilitate the people to Tangmarg, the Minister said the bold redress their grievances in a time decision of the coalition government bound manner. He said, almost evfor creation of new Administrative ery area has been covered under this Units across the state aims to pro- historic decision. He said that creTANGMARG, MARCH 01- Thou- vide governance to the people of J&K ation of Tehsils,Addressing the huge sands of People from Tangmarg, Pat- at their doorstep for which they had gathering at Tangmarg, the Minister tan and Beerwa today gave a rousing to traverse a long distances for get- said the bold decision of the coalireception to the Minister for Agricul- ting their problems resolved in vari- tion government for creation of new ture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir for ful- ous utility services offices. He said Administrative Units across the state filling the aspirations of the people that new administrative units will aims to provide governance to the of these areas by strongly advocat- give new impetus to development people of J&K at their doorstep for ing their demands for creation of and ease the administrative prob- which they had to traverse a long new Administrative Units (AU’s) in lems of people living in far-flung distances for getting their problems the Cabinet Sub Committee and the areas and will change development resolved in various utility services Cabinet, Which resulted in creation landscape of J&K. offices. He said that new administraof several new AU’s in these respecMr.Mir said that time is not far tive units will give new impetus to tive areas. away when Tangmarg Tehsil will get development and ease the adminisLone News Kangan Khan trative News Agency People from all walks of life fromAgency problemsGanderbal of people living in District status to fulfill the cherished Tangmarg, Pattan andGulzar BeerwaNews as- Agency areas Chadoora and will change dedream of the people of Tangmarg Soura Zahidfar-flung Book Depot
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velopment landscape of J&K. Mr.Mir said that time is not far away when Tangmarg Tehsil will get District status to fulfill the cherished dream of the people of Tangmarg and its adjoining areas. Mr Mir said that carving out of Tehsils, Naibats, Patwar Halqas and new community development blocks, in particular, will give further boost to rural economy with increasing fund flow. He said that every area will receive uniform fund flow under various centrally and state schemes to upgrade the rural infrastructure, besides to facilitate the people to redress their grievances in a time bound manner. He said, almost every area has been covered under this historic decision. He said that creation of Tehsils,Blocks, Naibats, and Sub-Divisions will go a long way in mitigating the difficulties of the people in various areas, particularly the far off pockets of the State. The Minister said that for the welfare of the people, numerous people friendly initiatives have been taken by the government and this is a major initiative in the past six and
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 Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Chadoora Minister of State for PHE, IrrigaBhat News Agency Magam Zargar tion and News Flood Agency Control, Kunzar Mr. Nazir Dar News Agency Beerwah BashirGurezi Newstoday Agency Sumbal the Ahmad informed House thatNews 118850.66 JAMMU, March 01As many 7 Private Members’ Bill Reshi NewsasAgency Safapora Saleem Agencyquintals Pattan of seeds, 1831241.35 MTs of fertilizer were moved in the House for introduction. Out of these 6 Bills Basharat News Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agency Pampore and 1722.62 MTs of pesticide have were withdrawn by the members’ after receiving assurances Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund been provided to the farmers during by the Government, while the Bill of Mr. Jugal Kishore was Jeelani Newsfor Agency News Agency Sopore theG.M current year.The Minister was redefeated after the member pressed voting.Baramulla Shah News Kupwara Sultan Agency Handwara plying to aNews question by Mr. Jahangir Mr. Naresh Kumar Gupta movedAgency a Bill to amend State RanHussain MirNews in theAgency Legislative Council. bir Penal Code, 1989 (1932 (L.Agency C PrivateLangate Members’ Bill YounisA.D.), News Sheikh Islamabad Minister that No. 1 of 2014)” and a Bill to amend Kashmir Land Reshi News Jammu Agencyand Islamabad ThreeThe Way Newsfurther Agencysaid Tral besides state / district plan, various Revenue Act, 1996 (L.C Private Members’ Bill No. 2 of 2014)”. TurrayVeeri News Agency Tral Badru are News Agency Bijbehara schemes under implementation Dr. Syed Bashir Ahmad moved a Bill to repeal the Rahi2005 News Agency Kulgam No. VIII News Agency Arwani secfor Malik Development of Agriculture Enemy Agents Ordinance, (1948 A.D) ordinance tor Shaheen includingNews Integrated of 2005 (L.C. Private Members’ BillAgency No. 3 of Byepass 2014)”and a Bill to Rah News AgencyScheme Kargil of
Business in LC
6 Bills withdrawn, 1 defeated in LC
provide reservation of handicapped children of militancy victim and people who are victims of militancy, in the appointments and professional institutions and in other government recognized institutions in the Jammu and Kashmir or other government recognized institutions in the State (L.C Private Members’ Bill No. 4 of 2014). Dr. Shehnaz Ganai moved a Bill to lay down an obligation to publish citizen charter and redress grievance of the public in a time bound manner (L.C Private Members’ Bill No.6 of 2014)” and a Bill to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act, 1989 (L.C Private Member Bill No 7 of 2014)” .Mr. Jugal Kishore moved a Bill to prohibit the sale of meat and liquor at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Katra and its surroundings within a radius of 10 kilometers (L.C Private Members Bill No 5 of 2014)”.
118850.66 Qts seeds, 1831241 MTs fertilizer provided to farmers: Gurezi
Oilseed, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize, Seed Village Programme, Horticulture Mission for the North-East and Himalayan States, Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, National Food Security Mission (Rice & Wheat), Promotion & Strengthening of Agricultural Mechanization through training, testing & Demonstration, Support to state Extension Programme for Extension Reforms and National Bamboo Mission. Mr. Gurezi further informed the House that in order to improve Vegetable production various other schemes are under implementation in the state like the National Vegeta-
ble Initiative for Urban Clusters which aims at providing end –to-end linkage in vegetable production, marketing and processing with back-up support by the Small Farmers Agri Business Consortium (SFAC) and various interventions like Base Line Surveys,
Power tariff being charged as per provision of JK SERC: Sadhotra
Minister for Planning, Labour and Employment Mr. Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, replying to a question by Mr. Mohammad Muzaffar Parray informed the House that Billing of energy consumed is being carried out as per the provisions of tariff, issued by the J&K SERC. The Minister said that metered consumers are being charged as per monthly energy consumption recorded by the meters, while unmetered consumers are charged as per fixed rates depending upon the load agreement of the consumer with the department. The Minister said that the department is compelled to take corrective measures in power theft and pilferage. He said under Clause 95 of the Act, theft of electricity is punishable for a term which may extend upto three years and fine or both. He said that Power Development Department has so far been trying to inculcate sense of responsibility in the consumers. Khalid Najeeb Suhrawardy also raised the supplementary. Replying to another question
by Abdul Majeed Bhat, the Minister said that the Registering officers i.e. Assistant Labour Commissioner in each districts are responsible for the issuance of Labour cards and registration of Building and other construction workers on the receipt of an application with the completion of all requirements laid down under Rules in Section 2(d) and 2 (c) of the building and other construction workers (RE&CS) Act, 1996. The Minister further informed that the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board has not authorized any private i.e. agent for any commission. He said, however, the board receives Rs. 10/- as registration fee alongwith monthly contribution @ Rs.10/- which is strictly elaborated under rules. Mr. Sadhotra said that in order to make the system more efficient, a number of steps have been taken by the Board including computerization of records in each district. He said that the Board has issued new forms for various Welfare Schemes
that can be received from office of the Assistant Labour Commissioner concerned. The forms cannot be photo copied or sold because on the forms it is clearly mentioned that the forms are “free of cost”. He said that the Board, in order to ensure that all deserving people are registered under the schemes, allocates funds to districts for publicity and common awareness of people. He said that sanction of the cases of marriage assistance is now being done by the CEO/Secretary, B&OCWW Board instead of Assistant Labour Commissioners. He said that this is being done in order to increase the transparency and ensure that more time is given to efficient registration of workers by registering officers. Replying to the supplementary by Mr. Naresh Kumar Gupta, the Minister informed that to simplify the process, MG NREGA cards have been acknowledged in the process of registration of Building and other construction workers in the office of Assistant Labour Commissioner.
Tagore Hall, Abhinav Theatre to be completed in May, Oct: Bhalla
Minister for Housing and Culture, Mr. Raman Bhalla today informed the House that the expected date of completion for Tagore Hall; Abhinav Theatre is May and October 2014 respectively.While replying to a question by Mr. Devender Singh Rana in Legislative Council today, the Minister said that the civil works for the auditorium hall almost is completed, interior electrification along with fire alarm system, signage’s etc, automatic voltage regulator are ready for installation.Mr. Bhalla said that HVAC system and firefighting system have been completed. Inside
hydrants, cabinets and de watering pumps have been installed. He further said that allotment has been issued for Stage lighting, fur-
half decades, which is aimed at giving much needed respite to people living in ‘not so advantageous areas’. He spelled out the broad contours of the initiative and said placement of Patwari in each Panchayat Halqa will immensely benefit the rural population. Asking the people particularly the youth to involve themselves in the development of the state, The Minister said that “it is due to overwhelming support of the people, the government was able to take such initiatives during last five years to make J&K at par with other states of the country”. He said that UPA government has provided liberal funding for the development of the state, as a result all the three regions are witnessing development and creation of infrastructure in different spheres of life. Referring to various local issues, the Minister said that during last five years road communication network, health, education , PHE, Power infrastructure of these areas has been upgraded, besides number of vital bridges have also been completed.
nishing and AV system besides the process for procurement of chairs for auditorium has been initiated. He said that in Abhinav Theatre, Jammu the civil works of the building have been completed besides AC system, firefighting equipment, new modern lighting system inside and outside with power saver electrification stands installed. He said installation of new chairs, finishing of stages, installation of lights, installation of sound system and carpet are to be taken up.Mr. Bashir Ahmad Magray, Mr. Naresh Gupta, Mr. G. Q. Pardesi and Mr. Jahangir Hussain Mir raised their supplementaries.
Promotion of Farmer Association / Groups, Vegetable seed and Seedling production, Organic Farming, Vermicompost Units and Vermibeds, vegetable Cultivation in Open Condition, Protected Cultivation, Integrated Nutrient Management / Integrated Pest Farmers have been initiated under the mission.The Minister said that similarly, under Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan State (HMNEH), the Scheme is being implemented with an objective to focus on the quality production of vegetable crops, Mushroom and Apiculture through adoption of improved technologies, Area Expansion of Vegetables / Spices, Promotion of Organic Farming, Horticulture Mechanization, Construction of Vermicompost, Protected Cultivation (Naturally Ventilated System), Shade Net House, Human Resource Development and Creation of Water Sources.While replying to another question raised by Dr. B. A. Veeri, the Minister informed the House that the eroded / vulnerable spots of both banks of Nallah Lidder to Hutmurrah are at present being treated / restored out of the available funds with the department.
Two SRDs conducts in Kargil: Kichloo Minister of State for Home, Mr. Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo replying to a question by Aga Syed Ahmed Rizvi informed that Special Recruitment Drive (SRD) have been conducted in the Police Department at Constabulary level in pursuant to the Cabinet decision, with a view to giving representation to the eligible candidates in the areas which are relatively underrepresented in the Police Department.The Minister informed that two Special Recruitment Drives were conducted in Kargil in which 144 candidates were selected. He said such drives in other eligible areas would also be conducted accordingly to give proper representation to these areas.
Procurement of material by local bodies done through tendering: Jora
Minister for Urban Development and Urban Local Bodies, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora today informed the House that as far as Urban local body institutions of Jammu division are concerned, the procurement of material like Disinfectants, lights etc has been made by way of tendering, and the tenders were called by the committees and the rate were approved by the presidents / administrators of the concerned committees from time to time.The Minister was replying to a question by Mr Jugal Kishore in Legislative Council today.The Minister said that an amount of Rs. 75.56 lakh has been released by the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies to Municipal Committees during 2013-14 till date and Rs. 121.20 lakhs has been expended by these MCs out of their own resources during the current year.He further said that as far as, the firm / supplier approved for the supply of such material is concerned, the approval has been given by the concerned president / administrator and supply orders have been issued by the concerned Executive Officer from time to time.
Sagar cautions people about ulterior motives of certain parties JAMMU, MARCH 01: Cautioning the masses about the mechanizations and false propaganda being unleashed by certain parties for their ulterior political motives, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayats, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that these forces have always thrived on spreading falsehood for their political interests but people of the state are aware of the development undertaken by the government in every sphere of life and would give a befitting reply to them in coming future.The Minister was addressing a huge public gathering after laying the foundation stone of the Model village at BakuraGanderbal in Kashmir division. The Model Village will be taken up with an estimated cost of Rs. 1.12 crore and will having all the requisite facilities like Community Information Centre, play grounds and other allied things. District Development Commissioner, Ganderbal, Mr. Sarmad Hafeez, Director Rural Development, Kashmir, Mir Altaf Ahmad and other senior officers of district were present on the occasion. Taking a dig at the opposition parties trying to negate the achieve-
ments registered by the coalition government in every sphere of life, the Minister said that they believe in spreading divisive propaganda for their ulterior and political motives. “The historic step taken by the government of announcing various new administrative units in different parts of the state would ensure fast paced and sustained development and would go a long way in providing the much needed basic units of governance to the people within their catchment areas and would also help in elevating their socio-economic profile”, Mr. Sagar said and maintained that people of the state are wise enough to understand their mechanizations.Terming the empowerment of Panchayats one of the major initiatives undertaken by the government for ensuring the decentralization of powers to the grass root level, the Minister said that these basic units of governance have been adequately empowered with the powers of 14 vital departments and the necessary instruction have been passed down the line to ensure that they are involved in implementation and formulation of various welfare programmes.
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
Today is a good day to be receptive to other people’s energies, Aries. You’ll find that a sensitive attitude toward the people around you, combined with a bit of hard work and willingness to fulfill your responsibilities, will make for an unstoppable winning combination. Use this day to collect data and plan your goals. Take responsibility for your actions and don’t be afraid to admit your mistakes.
Taurus April 20-May 20
You’ll find that your mind is sharp and penetrating today, Taurus. Make sure you stay focused and organized. You have the power of discipline behind you that will help you manifest quite a bit on a day like today. Keep in mind that your openness to others and your incredible sensitivity are some of your greatest gifts. Use your power to create prosperity for yourself, but do it without hurting or manipulating others.
Gemini May 21-June 21
There is a rough stubbornness to the day that you may find hinders your progress, Gemini. There may be undercurrents of opposition that are slowly wearing away at your psyche. Make sure that you don’t fall into the trap of feeling guilt or regret. These are useless emotions that you simply can do without. If people are being negative or unreasonable, simply walk away from the situation and find a better one.
Cancer June 22-July 22
There are forces working in your favor that you should be sure to latch onto and take advantage of, Cancer. You’ll find that your sense of duty and ability to plan are paying off in a very positive way. You’ll find that you’re able to check quite a few things off your list today. Think before you act and take a time-out to rest and regroup if you need to.
Leo
July 23-August 22 Missed connections and unfortunate misunderstandings will happen less frequently if you slow down and focus. Remember that you can do things yourself, Leo. Don’t feel like you absolutely need approval from others before tackling the projects that you wish to complete. Your mind is urging you to take the initiative today, so feel free to do so. Just make sure you aren’t too hasty in your actions.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Things that require restriction and discipline on your part may be causing tension and opposition in your world today, Virgo. The good news is that your mind is clear and you should feel in tune with the people around you. Know your allies and take care of them. Remind others of how much they mean to you. The most important aspects of your life are your friends and family, so treat them with unconditional love.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Your internal fire may be feeling a bit smothered by a fierce reality check today, Libra. Give people the benefit of the doubt. They are more perceptive than you may think. In fact, it may behoove you to get some honest feedback today from some people you trust. It could be difficult for you to sort out the truth in your present situation, since you’re the one caught in the middle of the maelstrom.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21 Careful planning on your part is starting to pay off, Scorpio, but be careful that you don’t alienate others in your quest to be the best. You may not realize how your harsh words affect the people around you. Be more sensitive to the feelings of others. Focus and be brave in your actions. Hesitation may cause you to lose control of the situation. Know your boundaries, but push beyond them.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
A little foreign culture could be the thing you need right now to spice things up a bit. It could be that you aren’t feeling a very strong connection with the environment around you. You could be anxious to spread your wings and explore your freedom. Start small but think big. Get out of your rut and do more exploring on your own. There’s a sobering, disciplined feeling to the day that could help you think realistically about your situation .
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Some days it may be hard for you to get motivated, Capricorn, but if ever there were a day in which it was easier than others, this would be the day. You’ll find that your mind is quite attuned to the situation around you and that your sense of grounding is helping you manifest that which you wish to bring to life. There’s a sense of time restriction and limitation to the day that is prodding you to act now.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
You may feel a bit of restriction working to hold you back from your current plans today, Aquarius. It could be that your mind is feeling restless and that you’re anxious to go, but there’s a feeling of discipline and caution nagging you and urging you to slow down. This might not be a bad idea. Discipline and willpower may be exactly the things you need in order to get where you’re going.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 You’ll find that a sensitive mind that’s open to everything and every possibility is exactly the thing you need at this time in order to be successful in reaching all the goals you’re working toward, Pisces. You’ll find that your sense of duty and need for plans and solid goals are key elements for getting to where you need to be. Gather information and create a plan of attack that is well thought out.
EDITORIAL/ OPINION Confusing pre-poll political scenario
T
he coming elections to the Lok Sabha are described as mother of all elections held in the country so far. This is because the country is passing through a critical phase as far as the emergence of political alliances and thoughts are concerned. On one side there are forces led by BJP which have been dubbed as communal in nature and are suspected to create an atmosphere of ill will and hate between different religious groups and communities. Called NDA this political alliance has Shiv Sena, RSS and Bajrang Dal as its ears and eyes and does not have a good patronage in other communities particularly in Muslims. The other alliance called UPA is led by congress, a secular party but has been engulfed by several scams and scandals in the recent pass. Both the sides are trying to vow other regional forces in their fold so that they get more seats in the elections which are slated to be held in April- May. However, as far as present situation is concerned nobody knows which alliance would muster more support and lead the formation of the govt. at the centre. There are every possibilities that the third group consisting of non-BJP, non-Congress parties may emerge as a force to reckon with. The group called third front has AIADMK, CPM, Trinmol Congress and other likeminded parties which can join hands together to form a govt. in the centre if they get more than 180 seats. In that situation, Congress party will happily support third front to keep BJP out of power. The third front can also expect support from Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samajwadi Party, and other smaller but secular parties. This formation will be more acceptable to the people of the country who do not want that non secular forces should come to the power. The recent agreement between AIADMK and CPM has paved way for all secular forces to come together and form a govt. at the centre which can be better than NDA or UPA if it really sticks to the secular philosophy. Though there is a lot of media hype in favour of Mr. Narindra Modi the BJP prime ministerial candidate, nobody can guess as to what will Indian voter exactly decide on the poll day. According to previous experience many times the exit polls have proven wrong and a totally different picture emerged after the polling.
Daily
Zabarwan Times
Srinagar, Sunday 02 March 2014
Fighting Cyber Crimes
W
ith the continual expansion of the ‘cyber world’ around us, more and more people and organizations are getting intertwined on the internet and other platforms, including the mobiles and the fast expanding ‘cloud’. This on the one hand has proved to be a boon for the business, establishments, enterprises, education field, interpersonal relations and the society as whole; but at the same time has also become a preying ground for the unscrupulous elements thereby providing innumerable and innovative ways of cheating and defrauding. This defrauding can take place not only with respect to financial losses but also in relation to reputation, privacy and networking websites, including matrimonial websites. As a result, there is a continuous effort on the part of the Government to take such steps as will prevent and punish the cyber crimes and their perpetrators so that even the common man can tread on the cyber highway without fear of falling prey to unscrupulous elements. In this effort the Central Government is working in consort with all stakeholders. As per the Crime Data /information maintained by National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), 2,464 cases of crime such as hacking and others, were registered during 2012. A total of 1,440 cases were related to loss / damage to computer resource/ utility reported under hacking with computer systems (Section 66(1) of the Information Technology Act 2000) and 435 cases were related to hacking under Section 66(2) of the Information Technology Act 2000. For committing such crimes, 749 persons were arrested during 2012. There were 589 cases of obscene publications / transmission in electronic form under Section 67 of Information Technology Act, 2000 during the year 2012; wherein 497 persons were arrested. In addition, 259 cases of cheating through cyber forgery and 118 cases of cyber frauds were registered under Indian Penal Code (IPC) provisions. Further, as per the information provided by Reserve Bank of India 6,034 frauds involving credit /ATM/ debit cards were reported in 2013.
Fighting Cyber Crime Needs Concerted Efforts
Police and Public Order are State subjects under the Constitution and as such the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations are primarily responsible for prevention, detection, registration and investigation of crime including Cyber Crime and for prosecuting the criminals through Law Enforcement machinery within their jurisdictions. The Cyber space is virtual, borderless and anonymous. Anyone can open e-mail account in any name including fake name from any part of the world. Any user with any email address is allowed to register with social networking sites with any name including fake names. No background information check is performed by the social networking sites, which leads to creation of fake accounts by miscreants for committing
crimes/ frauds. Most of the networking sites are located abroad. The servers of these social networking sites are also located abroad. A total no. of 3, 45, 37 and 36 cases of fake accounts/ profiles on various social networking websites were reported to Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) in the year 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 (till November) by various Law Enforcement Agencies. CERTIn, further, contacted these social networking websites for disabling of fake accounts and for getting user access details of these fake accounts/ profiles. In most of the cases, such fake accounts were successfully disabled in association with social networking sites, having offices in India. However, success rate is low in disabling accounts and getting information from social networking sites having offices abroad.
Steps Taken by the Central Government to Prevent Frauds
Government has taken the following actions to prevent frauds by social networking sites and matrimonial sites: · Government has notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines) Rules 2011 under Section 79 of the Information Technology Act. These rules require that the Intermediaries, including national and international social networking sites and matrimonial sites, shall observe due diligence while discharging their duties and shall inform the users of Computer resources not to host, display, upload, modify, publish, transmit, update or share any information that is harmful, objectionable, affect minors and unlawful in any way. The said rules also require the intermediaries to appoint Grievance Officers to address the grievances received from users and affected individuals / organizations as and when received by them. · Government issued an advisory on 17th August 2012 to all the intermediaries, including national and international social networking sites, advising them to take necessary action to disable inflammatory and hateful content hosted on their web sites on priority basis. · Government also conducts awareness campaign on the issue to educate users. · The Government is in regular dialog with the intermediaries including social networking sites for effective and efficient disablement of such content.
Creating an Efficient Fighting Force to Beat Cyber Crimes
Fighting any type of crime needs a robust, dedicated, efficient and well-trained force and fighting cyber crimes is no exception. To train and develop Cyber Crime investigators, the Central Government has taken a series of steps, which include: · Ministry of Home Affairs has issued an Advisory to the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations to build adequate technical capacity in handling cyber crime including trained manpower for detec-
tion, registration, investigation and prosecution of cyber crimes. Also, under the Cyber Crime Investigation programme, Ministry of Home Affairs is supporting the establishment of Cyber Crime Police Stations (CCPS) and Cyber Crime Investigations and Forensic Training Facilities (CCIFTF) in each State / Union Territory of India under Police Modernization Scheme. Action also has been taken to set up a National Centre of Excellence exclusively devoted to render Cyber Forensic services and to act as National Research and Training Centre on Cyber Forensics. · A major programme has been undertaken on development of cyber forensics tools, setting up of infrastructure for investigation and training of the users, particularly police and judicial officers in use of this tool to collect and analyze the digital evidence and present them in Courts. · Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) and Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) are involved in providing basic and advanced training to Law Enforcement Agencies, Forensic labs and judiciary on the procedures and methodology of collecting, analyzing and presenting digital evidence. · Cyber forensics training lab has been set up at Training Academy of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to impart basic and advanced training in Cyber Forensics and Investigation of Cyber Crimes to Police Officers associated with CBI. In addition, Government has set up cyber forensic training and investigation labs in the States of Kerala, Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Meghalaya, Manipur and Jammu & Kashmir for training of Law Enforcement and Judiciary in these States. · In collaboration with Data Security Council of India (DSCI), NASSCOM, Cyber Forensic Labs have been set up at Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune and Kolkata for awareness creation and training programmes on Cyber Crime investigation. National Law School, Bangalore and NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad are also engaged in conducting several awareness and training programmes on Cyber Laws and Cyber crimes for judicial officers.
Enough Funds Provided for the Fight
A total budget of Rs. 2074.45 lakhs has so far been sanctioned by the Department of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY) , Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, for implementing the projects to train and develop Cyber Crime investigators, forensic examiners, judiciary and setting up of cyber crime investigation training labs. Rs. 500 crore has been allocated for DeitY in the 12th Plan period (2012-17) for Cyber Security Programme including Cyber Safety, Security and Surveillance, Cyber Crime Investigations and Cyber Forensics.
Indelible Ink: Mark on Finger, A Moment of Pride
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ndelible Ink is popularly known as Voter's Ink to mark on voter’s finger during elections to avoid fraudulent, multiple voting & malpractices. It is not an ordinary ink, once it is applied on the finger it remains for few months. The credibility of producing the special ink goes to the Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited (MPVL) the Government of Karnataka undertaking, which is supplying this ink
cannot be removed by any chemical, detergents or oil, it remains for few months. Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited (MPVL) specialized in manufacturing and supply of quality Indelible Ink, in association with the Election Commission of India, National Physical Laboratory, and National Research Development Corporation. It is the sole authorized supplier of this type of foolproof Indelible Ink in India having exclusive license granted by National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), New Delhi since 1962. Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd., was established during 1937 by late Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, Then the Maharaja of Mysore province under the nomenclature “Mysore Lac & Paint Works Ltd”. During 1989, it was renamed as “My-
sore Paints & Varnish Ltd In 1962, the Election Commission in collaboration with Union Law Ministry, The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) made an agreement with Mysore Paints and Varnish Ltd., for supplying this ink for the Parliament, Assembly and other general elections to all the states in India. Beginning with 1962 general elections it has been supplying indelible ink for Elections in India. Apart from supplying indelible ink to Indian elections, Mysore Paints & Varnish Ltd has been exporting the Ink to 28 countries across the world since 1976, to name some few countries are: Turkey, South Africa, Nigeria, Nepal, Ghana, Papua-New Guinea, Burkina Faso, Canada, Togo, Sierra Leone, Malaysia, Cambodia etc.
to India and various foreign countries. In India it has been a great challenge for the government and the election commission to hold and complete the process of general elections. In achieving this and to eliminate the fake voting, the election commission has introduced a measure, i.e. using Indelible Ink which is put on the left hand finger nail of the voter. The Indelible Ink
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer