Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 06 March

C M Y K

THURSDAY

06 March | 2014 | 03 Jamadi-Ul-Awal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

Pen

For

http://www.zabarwantimes.com

VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 65 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)

Jus

tice

Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K

Opening of Timber Sale depot at Haripur under consideration: Altaf

Srinagar, March 05: Veteran resistance leader and chairman Hurriyat Conference (G) on Wednesday was detained at the Srinagar International airport and placed under house arrest at his Hyderpora residence.

Reports reaching GNS said that Geelani was arrested by a police team this afternoon, minutes after he arrived at the Srinagar International airport from New Delhi, where he had gone for chech up.

He was escorted to his Hyderpora residence and placed under house arrest.

Hurriyat Conference (G) spokesman, Ayaz Akbar said that the conglomerate’s chairman was arrested by police from the airport and brought to See Geelani On Page 11..

PC flays Govt for non payment of bills

Srinagar, Mar 5: Zaffar Farooq Salathi, senior leader Jammu and Kashmir People’s Conference (JKPC) flayed the Government for the non-payment of the bills of the contractors.

According to a statement issued to KNS, he expressed these views after meeting a delegation of contractors at his residence at Anantnag.

He said, “Despite See PC On Page 11..

Inside story SASE issues fresh avalanche warning Srinagar, March 05: State Disaster Management Authority on Wednesday issued fresh avalanche warnings in several parts of north Kashmir.

A warning issued jointly by Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) and disaster management cell said medium danger avalanches could occur at higher reaches of of Chowkibal and Tangdhar in Kupwara district.

A disaster management official told GNS

See More On Pg 11

On Edit Page Cementing of Indo-Pak ties -imperative

Again the visit of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to Pakistan has been ruled out because of certain happenings in the past. India wants that Pakistan should demolish its terror structure which it thinks is being used against India putting the integrity and security of the country in danger. The happenings between the two countries of late have not been encouraging and both the countries have blamed each other for these unfortunate incidents. It is really disappointing that the Indo-Pak relations are going through a rough weather and whatever has been achieved so far is not being carried forward and encashed for cordial and friendly relations. The whole world community wants the two countries to

See More On Pg 09

WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

Light Rain/Snow would occur at a few places over the state.

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

C M Y K

Partly cloudy sky. Maximum &Minimum temperatures will be around 11°C & 2°C respectively.

TEMPERATURE MAXIMUM MINIMUM

SUNSET ON(THURSDAY) SUNRISE ON (FRIDAY)

9.70C 0

3.8 C 06:32PM 06:52 AM

Licensed to play big shots

See More On Page 10

Chairman appreciates Government, Information Deptt, print, electronic media

See More On Page 06

Geelani arrives, placed under house arrest

See More On Page 06

See More On Page 10

Advised to reduce weight

C M Y K

16th Lok Sabha Elections to be ‘Mother of All Elections’ Congress on slippery turf, BJP haunted by post Godhra riots, Third Front a mirage From our Special correspondent Srinagar 05 Feb: With the announcement of poll dates for sixteenth Lok Sabha elections, the alarming rings have sounded for the political parties who have now to prove their worth and metal in the elections as the hollow sloganeering will not serve any purpose now. Though the polling dates have been spread from 7th April to 12th of May and the election commission has decided to hold the elections in nine phases, it will still be a daunting task for the election commission to hold free and fair elections in the entire country, where some areas are volatile and engulfed with violence. Being one of the largest democracies in the world India has never failed in protecting the democratic institutions and has always strengthened them with every coming poll.

This time the elections to the 16th Lok Sabha are described as mother of all elections by the political pundits as the political situation has become very lucid and confusing in the country with the emergence of new political forces

and entities. As far as the predictions and exit polls are concerned, it seems that there are more chances of a hung Lok sabha as no political party seems to have a complete grip over the country’s voters. The Modi wave which had started like a whirlwind has obviously lost its strength and grip mid-way and the congress party is not looking as strong as it used to be because it has perhaps surrendered even before the people’s verdict. The BJP led NDA cannot expect whole hearted support by Muslims in the country and the congress has been derailed by its own deeds.

It looks that the demolition of Babri Masjid and aftermath of Godhra in Gujarat are still fresh in the minds of Muslims which are haunting BJP led NDA and the scandals which surfaced in the recent past including 2G spectrum and common wealth games have inflicted maximum damage to the congress led UPA. The emergence of third front has also not got momentum as so far only two parties AIADMK and CPM have agreed for a pre poll alliance. The Samajwadi party has clearly said that it will not have any pre poll al-

liance with any party. The Trinmol Congress in West Bengal may have increased its influence but the Ana Hazare factor who has declared to campaign for Trinmol Congress alone cannot increase its fortunes beyond the boundaries of West Bengal. If one goes by the calculations the BJP along with its allies too does not seem to gather a clear majority to form the government and the non existence of third front may further confuse the political situation. However nothing can be said about Indian voter who can change his mind even at the last moment in favour of any of the political parties. This depends on the previous performance of the political parties as a whole, the prominence and popularity of its top leadership and last but not the least the performance of a particular candidate and his standing in his constituency. It is not a vote always for a political party, ideology or overall performance of the party, but it is mostly the performance of the candidate and his proximity with the people which See Elections On Page 11..

9-phase LS polls to be held from 7th Apr to 12th May; counting on 16th May Model Code of Conduct comes into force with immediate effect: CEC New Delhi, Mar 5: The elections to the 16th Lok Sabha, spread over nine phases, will begin from 7th April and will continue till 12th May. The counting will take place on 16th May. The first polling day on April 7 will cover five Lok Sabha constituencies in Assam and one in Tripura while the second on the 9th of April will cover seven constituencies spread over Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Nagaland.

92 constituencies in 14 states including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Kerela, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra will go to polls on the 10th of April. Five constituencies in three states including Assam will be covered on the fourth day on April 12.

122 Lok Sabha seats will go to polls in 13 states on April 17, the fifth day of the poll. The states included in this phase are Karnataka, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha and Bihar.

The sixth phase will witness polling in 117 seats in 12 states including Assam, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh on April 24.

The seventh day of polling on April 30 will choose representatives in 89 constituencies spread over nine

states including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.

64 seats in seven including Bihar, Himanchal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and West Bengal will be covered in 8th phase on 7th May. See CEC On Page 11..

Engineering students who were thrown out from Indian varsity recall harassment Srinagar, March 05: Some of the engineering students who were 'forced' out from an Indian varsity in Uttar Pradesh have reached Kashmir after facing 'enourmous hardships'. Others among the ousted group of Kashmir students, which was left with no choice but to leave the varsity at the crack of dawn two days ago, are on their home.

While speaking to GNS, the students of Meerut's Swami Vivekanand Subharti University (SVSU) narrated their ordeal and said they were 'literally' thrown out by the university authorities with help of police over 'cheering' for Pakistan during their match with arch-rivals India on Sunday.

"We were forced to vacate from the

university by the authorities. They told us to vacate and collect our belongings in ten minutes or otherwise we will ask police to resort to baton charge. They told us if we didn't leave the place people will kill us," a student, who returned on Wednesday, said.

He said: we were 'bundled' in two varsity buses. "In the presence of police led by Station House Officer (SHO) and other university officials, we asked them to hear our side of the story. The Chief Warden and pro-Vice Chancellor also forced us to vacate.

We repeatedly requested them to hear our story but they didn't bulge," he said. The student was speaking to GNS ‘on the behalf See Engineering On Page 11..

NC leaders hail CM’s initiative for bringing progressive legislations Jammu, Mar 5: Senior National Conference leaders on Wednesday hailed the passage of various amendment bills by Jammu and Kashmir Legislature, describing these as path breaking initiatives to combat corruption, empower Panchayats, ensuring extension of higher education in remote areas, instilling sense of security among women and upgrading health infrastructure in terms of power.

In a joint statement, the leaders complimented Chief Minister Mr Omar Abdullah for his political sagacity and vision in tackling various hard pressed issues with a sense of urgency.

The signatories to the joint

statement included Th. Kashmir Singh, State Vice President, Sheikh Bashir Ahmad, Provincial Secretary, Jugal Mahajan, Gurdeep Singh Sassan, Surinder Singh Bunty, Iqbal Wani, Mudasir Zargar, Abdul Wahid Kasana and others.

They described Jammu and Kashmir Corruption (Amendment) Bill, Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, Paramedical Council Bill, Panchayati Raj (Amendment Bill, Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, Universities (Amendment) Bill and Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill as most important legislations, See NC On Page 11..

J&K to go for polls in 5 phases, Model Code comes in force: CEO 9633 polling booths to be set up, 92% PERs prepared Jammu, Mar 5: Elections to 16th Lok Sabha in J&K are going to be held in five phases from April 10. All arrangements in this regard have been made and Model Code of Conduct has already come into force.

This was disclosed by Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Umang Narula at a news conference here today. The CEO said notification for Jammu-Poonch parliamentary seat would be issued on March 15, last date of filing nominations would be March 22, scrutiny would take place on March 24 and March 26 is the last date of withdrawal of nominations. Elections would be held on April 10.

Similarly, he said, notification for Udhampur-Kathua parliamentary seat would be issued on March 19, last date of filing nominations

Denied compensation, man locks government school in Lolab Srinagar, March 05: A government primary school in north Kashmir's Lolab valley was shut down on Wednesday by a man over the government's alleged failure to compensate him for the land on which the school building was constructed.

Reports reaching GNS said that the primary school, Lalpora was locked down

by Bashir Ahmad Ganai, who claimed that the government has not paid him compensation for the land which they had acquired for the establishnment of the school. The shutdown caused inconvinience to the students. who were waiting outside the school as heavy rains lashed the area.

"Besides compensation for the land, the officials also assured me that my son will be given a job. However, none of the promises has been fulfilled. So, to register protest, I locked the school today," Ganai said.

Headmaster Ghulam Ahmad told GNS that the school was shut down this morning by the man to protest the delay in compensation "I have taken up the issue with the higher ups. They'll find a solution to this problem," he said.

Zonal Education Post Officer (ZEPO) Mohammad Farooq said that if the land owner produces all the revenue extracts and other documents before the See Lolab On Page 11..

Abid Qadri takes charge of PRC KU Srinagar, March 05: Following the elevation of Showkat Shafi as Deputy Director DIQA, Abid Hussain Qadri Assistant Registrar Budget/General Section and Private Secretary to Registrar has taken over the charge of Public Relations Centre, University of Kashmir.

According to the order No: F (PRO-Gen-Admn) KU/14 dated March, 04, 2014 Qadri has been assigned the job of looking after the affairs of Public Relations Centre in addition to his own duties till further orders.

Meanwhile Showkat Shafi who was working as Assistant Registrar Public Relations and Incharge PRO has been relieved from the charges of the Public Relations Centre.

Qadri is a well known broadcaster and has been associated with electronic media for more than 28 years. He has been associated

with Doordarshan Kendra Srinagar as News Caster since 1985 and All India Radio as Announcer, Anchor, Newsreader and Editor for several years now.

Qadri has See Abid On Page 11..

would be March 26, scrutiny would take place on March 27 and March 29 is the last date of withdrawal of nominations. Elections would be held on April 17.

Narula said the notification for Anantnag parliamentary seat would be issued on March 29, last

date of filing nominations would be April 05, scrutiny would take place on April 07 and April 09 is the last date of withdrawal of nominations. Elections would be held on April 24.

The CEO said the notification for See CEO On Page 11..

‘Our children continue to shiver in schools’ Parents aghast over govt. decision of school reopening

Srinagar, Mar 5: Cornering state authorities over the dearth of heating arrangements in primary and middle schools, scores of parents across valley Wednesday questioned the timing of the reopening of primary level schools.

According to the reports received by KNS, Kashmir valley witnessed moderate snowfall in some areas while as the rains affected life at large in state’s summer capital. The scenes of children waiting for their school buses during the early morning

hours were witnessed everywhere with the parents aghast over the decision of the authorities taken vis-àvis re-opening of the schools after the winter vacations.

Parents accused that due to the persistent bad weather and cold conditions, the decision of the authorities on non-extension of the winter break was sans ‘logic’ and ‘anarchic’ as well. “We fail to understand that when the government knows that it lacks the proper heating system in schools- why it compelled our little children to join schools during this harsh winter,” See Reopening On Page 11..

PDP held protest against Dr Farooq Abdullah at Budgam Srinagar, Mar 5: Continuing its protest against National Conference patriarch Dr Farooq Abdullah for his recent anti-Kashmir remarks, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Wednesday held massive demonstration at Budgam.

The protest was led by Mr Saifu Din Bhat, district president Budgam.

According to a statement issued to KNS, carrying placards the demonstrators raised slogans against the shameful comments made by Dr Farooq in New Delhi and demanded unconditional apology from the NC and its leadership. The demonstrators said that the NC leadership has insulted the people of the state even as they claim to represent them.

Speaking on the occasion Bhat said the NC, from last 60 years, has been exploiting the people, compromising their dignity for its pity political interests.

Demanding apology from Dr Farooq’s, Bhat said his utterances are insulting which have badly hurt the sentiments of people of the state. He said NC is responsible for all the ills in J&K, as it has betrayed the people at some crucial junctures in the past. Questioning the credibility of NC patron, Bhat said there are very serious corruption charges pending Dr Farooq, as he is himself involved in the high profile JKCA scam.

He said NC has suck the blood of Kashmiri’s and built their fortunes and See PDP On Page 11..

C M Y K

11

Srinagar, Thursday 06 March 2014

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Elections makes him win or lose a Lok Sabha or assembly seat. As the political parties are now ready to go all-out to vow the voters in their favour, the fight has now started and everything will be put at stake to win the political battle. The twelve phases of Lok Sabha elections will need a lot of security arrangements large number of polling staff and an alert election commission to see that the polling is held in a democratic atmosphere with total peace and security in place. There will be definitely vested interests and anti social elements who will try to disturb the democratic system but it is the utmost responsibility of the commission to tackle the situation in an effective and meticulous way. There have been incidents of violence, booth capturing and other incidents of disturbing smooth conduct of elections in the past also but this time the commission has to see that this trend becomes negligible and every voter is allowed to cast his vote without fear and coercion. Coming back to the emergence of new political forces, the Aam Aadmi Party which has a lot of influence in Delhi may cause upsets in some other places particularly in those places where the people are disappointed and upset with the traditional political parties. If it will not get a seat it can upset the results by dividing the votes.

Similarly some other political parties like Janshakti party in Bihar may damage election prospects of Janata Dal united, who has strong basis in that region. The unclear stand of Sharad Pawar may also cause big upsets in Maharashtra and may reduce the poll fortunes of Congress party which is ruling the state with the support of his party. Now as the elections have been announced, political heavy weights will be jumping in the field and on 16th May the picture will be clear as to who stands where.

CEC Polling will come to an end on 12th May with elections in 41 constituencies in Chhattishgarh, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.

Notification for the first phase will be issued on 14th March and last and the ninth phase on 17th of April.

Meanwhile, the Chief Election Commissioner said that the Model Code of Conduct has come into force with immediate effect. He said for the first time in the Lok Sabha elections, the Commission will deploy Central Awareness Observers to oversee the effective management of the electoral process at the field level mainly in respect of voter awareness and facilitation.

Regarding the checking of illegal money flow, he said Expenditure Observers from Central Government Services would be appointed to keep a close watch on election expenditure of the candidates and to ensure that no inducement is offered to the electors during the election process for exercise of their franchise.

On paid news, Mr Sampth said that the election commission has asked the Centre to make it an electoral offence to curb its menace. He said the Commission is already trying to curb its practice by monitoring the expenditure of candidates.

In addition, election commission will deploy Flying Squads, Static Surveillance Teams, Accounting Teams and Video Surveillance Teams to curb the money menace.

The CEC added that to facilitate the voters to know where he or she is enrolled as a voter and the serial number in the Electoral Roll, the Commission has made arrangements for the distribution of photo voter slips.

Voter verifiable paper audit trial VVPAT system will be put to use in the election in some of the constituencies. Under the system, voters will be able to know whether their votes have been properly registered in EVMs with the help of printed slips.

Presently the Commission has six hundred VVPAT units and another twenty thousand units are likely to be received by the end of this month.

CEO Srinagar-Budgam parliamentary seat would be issued on April 02, last date of filing nominations would be April 09, scrutiny would take place on April 10 and April 12 is the last date of withdrawal of nominations. Elections would be held on April 30. He said the notification for Baramulla-Kupwara and Ladakh parliamentary seats would be issued on April 12, last date of filing nominations would be April 19, scrutiny would take place on April 21 and April 23 is the last date of withdrawal of nominations. Elections would be held on May 07.

The CEO said 9633 polling booths would be set up in the State which is 500 booths more than that of 2009 elections and these booths would be set up at 7346 locations. Of them, he said, 4059 have been declared as critical. He said as on date there are around 70 lac voters including 3275241 female voters. Besides, he said, it includes 58279 service voters.

Narula said as per the guidelines of Election Commission of India enrolment applications are being accepted and on 9th of this month the Commission has organised a display of electoral rolls at all booths while appealing voters to check their names in the electoral rolls.

Narula said this year photo voter slips would be made available to the voters in their vicinity to facilitate their smooth voting. He said so far J&K has attained 92% of Photo Electoral Rolls. He said efforts are being made to ensure availability of basic facilities like drinking water, shelter etc at polling booths. He said first check of Electronic Voting Machines has been done and the second check would be done after the selection of candidates.

The CEO said Model Code of Conduct has come into force which would remain till the election process is over. In order to ensure the same, he said, the Election Commission would appoint General Observers, Expenditure Observers and Awareness Observers. Besides, he said, all arrangements of security to ensure free and fair polls have been made. He said videography, webcasting, photography of the polling booths would be done besides appointing micro observers to ensure free and fair polls.

The Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, A. K. Sahu on the occasion said flying squads have been constituted to check the violation of model code of conduct adding that a toll free number 1077 has been set up for the purpose.

Director Information, Tasadiq Jeelani, Consultant Election department, Harcharan Singh, Joint Director Information Jammu, Ms. Smita Sethi and other senior officers are present on the occasion. (KNS)

Engineering of other students’ and he insisted not to be named.

"After they bundled us in the buses, we were taken to Ghaziabad railway station while police followed us in two other vehicles," he said, adding: "they told us to get down and go home but we said we won't because don't have money."

They offered us three hundred rupees each," he said, "and told us to return back but we told them we can't reach home on just 300 rupees and after that they took us to New Delhi railway station and dropped us there."

He said UP police handed us to Delhi police at the station and they told us to leave. "It was around 12:00 am. We again decided to go back to the university but our parents told us over phone to come and not to go to the varsity as they feared we might be attacked," he said.

The student said most of them had no money. "Some of us were having 50 rupees in the pockets and it was impossible to manage for us. We were hungry but we had no options.

For the whole night, we were at Delhi railway station. We were around seventy students," he said.

Zabarwan Times The students, he said, somehow managed and in the morning at 5:00 am booked local train tickets to Jammu. "We booked tickets for sixty students and at 5:00 am they left for Jammu, while other ten including me, went in a bus," he said.

He was quick to add: we told the driver that we will pay only after reaching home.

The group of sixty students reached Jammu at 9:00 pm, while the other group reached at around 11:30 pm. "They reached before us," he said, adding: "One of the politicians helped them at Jammu and he had arranged a bus for them to Srinagar and they had left at around 10:30 pm."

He aid their group reached Jammu at around 11:30 on Tuesday as they were in the bus. "However, we were not allowed to move towards valley as it was one-sided traffic, and we slept in the bus for the night," he said, adding: "today we left for Kashmir."

While speaking to GNS, the students from other group, said: "Where is the security for Kashmiris? The authorities claim that Kashmiri students are secure outside but where is the security?”

The students said that they were hungry for three days. "We were left on road without food," they said and demanded security for them in outside institutes. (GNS)

Lolab officials, his case will be processed. He also expressed regret over the closure of the school by Ganai. (GNS)

Reopening said Bilal Ahmad a sonawar resident.

Another parent stated that the health of their children is expected to get badly affected as they continue to shiver in schools where heating arrangements remain a distant dream. “How can they study when their hands tremble due to chilling cold. See the temperature and tell me how can a 8 year kid read and write in school?”

Parents also accused that the extension of two days in winter break was done on the behest of bureaucrats whose children were outside the station and the time was given to them to reach valley. Otherwise this two days break was ‘illogical, said parents, while demanding immediate decision over the extension on vacations if the weather conditions remain unchanged.

KNS made repeated attempts to contact director school education Mir Tariq Ali over the issue but his phone continues to remain switched off. (KNS)

NC reflecting the earnestness of the government in assuaging the aspirations of different segments of society.

National Conference leaders said the bill on Corruption will pave the way for tackling this menace effectively. They recalled the commitment of the Chief Minister about eradication of corruption and said this objective can’t be achieved by laws only but there was greater need for public support.

On Panchayat Raj Amendment Bill, the leaders opined that this will help in transforming the developmental scenario in rural areas in a big way, with percolation of funds under various centrally sponsored schemes. They said holding of Panchayati elections was a most significant milestone of the National Conference led government to empower rural people and making them real fountain head of power. “By putting Panchayats in place, people have become part of decision making, which is the real spirit of democracy”, they maintained.

The senior leaders also appreciated other bills, saying these will assuage the aspirations of trade and industry, help in creating secure environment for women to live with dignity. On Paramedical Council Bill, the leaders hoped that this will place the state in good stead as for as the training of paramedical technicians is concerned.

The leaders said that credit for the people-friendly measures goes to masses, which have always supported the progressive programmes of National Conference and making it a mass movement. They said the party will not shirk its predominant role in bringing about a turnaround in the situation and meeting the aspirations of the people of the State.

They Congratulated the Chief Minister and his government for accomplishing the commitments made to the people from time to time. (KNS)

Abid done his M.A.LLB from University of Kashmir and has served in various capacities at KU since 1980 including that of Assistant Controller Examinations.

PDP wealth by selling out the interests of the state.

In his address the PDP leader, Er Nazir Yatoo said present power crisis in the state is all because of NC, which has sold the most feasible power projects to the NHPC for the sake of

chair. He said instead of doing anything good to improve the power situation in the state, the ruling party has reversed the gains made in the sector by the previous PDP –led government. He said it is not the first time NC has defamed the people, but they have been doing it from last six decades to remain in power. (KNS)

Geelani his Hyderpora residence.

“Geelani Sahab was escorted home by the officer. Later, the officer informed him that he has been kept under house arrest. Since morning, police hade imposed curbs around Geelani Sahab’s house. No one is allowed in or out by the police,” he said.

Condemning the restrictions on the pro-freedom leader, Akbar said that the unending curbs on the ailing leader were an act of political vengeance. (GNS)

Agriculture Department organizes Training Programme on Bamboo Cultivation AMMU, MARCH 5: A Two days Training Programme under National Bamboo Mission was organized for the farmers by the Directorate of Agriculture, Krishi Bhawan Talab Tillo, Jammu. Joint Director Agriculture (Extension) Sh A. K. Malhotra inaugurated the training Programme and during his address to the participants highlighted the importance of the bamboo plant and its use in improving the economic condition of the farmers. He further said that the bamboo is being used not only for making scaffolding and ladders but a variety of more than 1000 products are made from it.

Additional PCCF, Forests, Jammu Sh Deepak Khanna, Conservator Forests Mr R. S. Jarotia and DFO (Retd), Sh Gopal Sharma attended the programme as resource persons and delivered lectures on the Scope of Bamboo Cultivation in Jammu Division and utility of bamboo in various fields of life. Sh A.K. Maknotra, Programme Officer, also

delivered lecture on various pests and diseases of bamboo and their management.

The farmers during interactive session put forth their problems like availability of good quality material, initial government support, transportation , facilities like support price etc.

The participating trainees and the officers were taken to Chanota forest area near Jourian (Akhnoor) to show the Bamboo Plantation done by the J & K Forest Department, where the experts from the concerned department showed them various species of bamboo and its cultivation techniques including procurement of quality root stock, raising of public and private nurseries for distribution of quality planting material to the farming community.

Deputy Director (Central), Sh C. M. Sharma, presented the vote of thanks. The coordination and the proceedings of the training were conducted by Sh O. P. Sharma, AEO.

PC

the completion of works, payments of most of the contractors are not released and surprisingly government don’t give any heed to it. Only the liabilities of the blued ones are cleared and the rest are forced to run from pillar to post.

Most of the contractors have raised loans for completing their works and are paying interests while their payment remains withheld in the government departments. Moreover, the delay in the payment mars the future of those engineers who have opted construction work as profession.

He further added, “The disparity in granting developments funds by Finance Commission of India to Jammu and Kashmir is unjustifiable. There is increase in funds allocation for other states year after year, while J&K witnesses decrease which hits the infrastructural development which is already set on slow pace by the indifferent approach of the authorities here.

Congress, RJD & NCP announce alliance for 40 LS seats in Bihar In Bihar, Congress, NCP and the RJD led by Lalu Prasad Yadav finally sealed a seat sharing alliance for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Addressing a joint press conference in Patna Bihar Congress committee president Ashok Chaudhary and RJD chief Laloo Prasad Yadav said that Congress will contest on 12 seats, one for NCP and RJD will field candidates in 27 other seats out of the 40 Lok Sabha seats in Bihar. Congress state president also said that the coalition was formed to prevent the communal forces. The National Congress Party, NCP led by Sharad Pawar will contest on one seat in the state. Announcing the decision on seat sharing RJD Chief Lalu Prasad said that Congress will contest on Sasaram(SC), Kishanganj, Aurangawad, Supaul, Hajipur, Purnia, Patna Sahib, Nalanda, Samastipur, Valmikinagar, Gopalganj and Muzaffarpur and the NCP candidate fight from Katihar.

SASE issues fresh avalanche warning Srinagar, March 05: (GNS) State Disaster Management Au-

thority on Wednesday issued fresh avalanche warnings in several parts of north Kashmir.A warning issued jointly

by Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) and disaster management cell said medium danger avalanches could occur at higher reaches of of Chowibal and Tangdhar in Kupwara district.A disaster management official told GNS that there is no need to panic but people are advised to take precautionary measures and not to venture in avalanche prone areas,” he said, adding that the warning will remain in effect for next 24 hours, he said. (GNS)

Kehribal to Cheki-Isherdas road in shambles SHAHID WANI Anantnag: People living in Cheki-Isherdas Mattan Anantnag alleged that their road from Kehribal to Cheki-Isherdas has been kept pending macdamization from last 9 years.

The road has been totally damaged due to rains and snow in winters. “Even after approaching concerned authorities several times our grievances were not redressed”, a local resident Irfan Ah Magray alleged.

Moreover people of the area have several times requested Power Development Department (PDD) for sanctioning of electric poles for their village as trees are being used instead of electric poles in the area. People requested concerned authorities to look into the matter and resolve their genuine grievances at an earliest.

OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE ENGINER, J&K TOURISM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION LIMITED TENDER NOTICE. 4 For and on behalf J&K Tourism Dev. Corp Ltd, the Executive Engineer invites sealed tenders affixed with revenue stamps worth Rs. 6 /- from the Registered Firms/Agencies for the below mentioned Work.

S.No

Name of the Work

Approx. Cost Earnest Money Class of Contractor (Rs.in lacs) (Rs.in lacs)

1

Construciton of Swimming Pool with both Civil and Rs.30.00 Mechanical components &t TRC Srinagar.

0.60 Lacs

Registered Firms/Agencies

(period of Completion Cost of Tender documents 45 Working days

Rs. 1000.00

Terms and Conditions

1. Sealed tenders should be addressed to the Executive Engineer JKTDC Ltd and Should reach in this office by or before 24-03-2014 upto 2 PM through SPEED POST REGISTERED POSTAL ONLY (COURIER BY HAND TENDER WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED). In case date If receipt of tenders is declared holiday, the tenders shall be received on next working day up to 12.00 hours and shall be opened on the same day or any other day convenient to authority.

2. : Tender Documents can be had from the office of the Executive Engineer JKTDC Limited Srinagar From 11-03-2014 to 17-03-2014 up to 2 PM on all working days after depositing required amount as a cost of tender document( non refundable) in the form of cas receipt of JKTDC Limited.

3. Experience certificate experience Certificate for similar nature of work not less than 80% of the advertised cost in a year during last 5 years or two works of 40% of advertised cost in a year during last 5 years during last 5 years or three works of 30% of advertised cost a year during the last 5 years to relevant completion certificate indicating D.O.S and D.O.S of the work must have been issued. By the completion authority of the said department.

4. TIM/PAN and updated Service Tax clearance certificate issued by the concerned.

5. Income Tax return of last two years.

6. Copy of valid upio date sale tax clearance certificate duly issued by the concerned authority.

7. The CDR/FDR should be pledged to the Executive Engineer, JKTDC without which for tender shall be entertained.

8. The defect liability period for the above works shall be for one year ( Guarantee period) from date of completion of work and the, contractor/firm shall be responsible for restoring the defect occurred if any during the defect liability period free of cost., 9. The period of completion is the essence of the work, therefore, the works have to be completed within the stipulated period failing which penalty is paid.

10. Conditional tender will not be entertained.

11. The intending tenderer shall have to paste transparent tape on each and every rate written on the tender document, otherwise his/her tender will be rejected.

The rate should be quoted both in words and figures 12. In case, the total comparative cost quoted by the lowest tenderer is found to be l4% below the advertised cost, the agency/contractor shall have to deposit extra 5%(Five Percent) of the total advertised amount in the shape of CDR pledged to Executive Engineer, JKTDC before issuance of Letter of intent or letter of allotment.

13. In case, over-writing/corrections /change of rates are found in quoted rates, th{ tender shall be rejected without assigning any reason thereof to avoid all sorts of ambiguity, j 1 The Income Tax, Sales tax, Labour less and any other standing taxes of J&K. State Govt, be deducted at the time of release of payment 15. The Agencies shall abide by Labour laws and will personally be responsible for any casualty/eventuality/accident during the period of contract.

16. The management reserves the right to accept/reject any tender without assigning any reason thereof and incase of any dispute between the parties the decision of the Managing Director, JKTDC shall be final and binding on both the parties.

DIPK , NB: 3034 Sd/ Executive Engineer

Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt.

Quarters , M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 09999964750, 9796 787844

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

THURSDAY, MARCH | 06 | 2014

WorktoongoThandapani to be started J&K to polls instadium five phases, Model after land issue is resolved: Sadhotra Code comes in force immediately: CEO

of the scheme was to replace the rotten poles, of all consumer categories including domesply in metered areas.

Rs. 7.39 cr each befor ond check would be done afterticthe Thethat CEOinsaid polling booths unauthorized March 26, scrutiny takeinformed category in a transparent manner, adding conductors; Thewould Minister the9633un-serviceable/ 9633 polling DirbillsTourism selection of candidates. would11KV be setfeedup in theState which of is un-authorized/ place on March 27 and March 29 is metered that the monthly of electricity charges replacement sub-standard unmetered and partially Handwara, Kupwara The CEOpoles, said replaceModel Code 500 booths more than that of 2009with standard the last date of nomiareofissued to the consumers as per the existline supports ers,of 8withdrawal hours normal curtailment is being booths to beR-APDRP set nations. clarifies name hasofcome into force which and these ment booths Elections beT&D held losses on elections ing electricity tariff approved

by J&Kof SERC. of would damaged Conduct LT cables Distribution carried would out. The are still around towns under be set up at 7346 locations. Of them, would remain till the election proApril 17.

up, 92% PERs prepared

cable car project

He further said that there are 17568 doJAMMU, March 05- Minister for Plan- 53% which clearly indicate that energy is not Transformers, replacement of damaged insuis over.ofInDistribution order to ensuremestic, the he said,areas, 4059 have declared as cess Mr. Narula the100% notification industrial and commercial consumlators and damaged earthing billedsaid up to even in metered he been ning, Labour and Development, Mr. Ajay Kusame,is he said, the Election ComforMr. Anantnag ers metered and about 356191 non- metered Sub-Stations. Priority accorded to vulneradded.parliamentary seat critical. mar Sadhotra replying to a question by mission would appoint Generalconsumers ObHesometimes said as on date there where are distribution would be issued onMr. March 29, lastsaid that of all categories District KupJAMMU, MARCHin05-In a joint able spots network poses Sadhotra Ravinder Kumar Sharma today informed servers, Expenditure Observerswara. and dateon of filing nominations risk toincluding life and property. regular power would supplybe gets around affected 70 duelac to voters statement issued by Director in the Legislative Council that the work Observers. he 3275241 female Aprilup05, scrutiny would take placeof Grid In replying to another question As he manyAwareness as 38 Mohalla/ villagesBesides, of break down and outage Stations andvoters. Besides, Tourism, Jammu and the Manag-by sports stadium at Thandapani was taken JAMMU, MARCH 05: Elections arrangements of security said, itcaused includes serviceDistrict vot- said, onconApril 07 and April the lastnetwork Mr.toNaresh Kumar Gupta, the Minister said Kupwara haveall been taken up under damages to 09 theissystem by58279 ing Director, J&K Cable Car Corpofor which Rs. 1 Lakh wasare provided to 16thLokSabha in J&K going toby the free2013-14, and fairhepolls have been Narulasaid perscheme the guidedate of withdrawal of nominations. that in view ofitthe of new adminduringensure the year mainnatural calamities, vagariesers.Mr. of weather, fail- asthe cerned during year 2011-12. ration, hascreation been clarified that the be heldMLC in five phasesthe from April 10. Howevlines of Election Elections would held on April 24. istrativename unitsofinthe thecable State, respective tained. of In- made. He said videography, webure ofbe electrical equipment, adding that allCommission er, Department the proposed cartheproject is All Forest arrangements in thisclaimed regard have casting, photography the polling diapriority enrolment applications are The beingMinister Deputy “Peer Commissioners The CEO the are notification further informedofthat suchsaid outages attended on to enpiece landand for Model construction Stadium perKho to Bahuhave Fort”.already been been of made Code ofofConto prepare As plan re-organization scheme booths has been sanctioned forbesides 30 advised sure power parliamentary supply to all affected areas. would be done apaccepted and on 9thR-APDRP of this month for the Srinagar-Budgam tains to them.

The construction perfor official handout duct has already come into force. work on of the units (Proposed/fixed) on rational towns of the State for the areas popuG.on NApril Monga raised has microhaving observers to ensure theKundal Commission organised a pointing would be issued 02,and last B. R. project and land issueseat is yet issued

by Director Tourism Jam-baThiswas wasstopped disclosed by the Chief Elecconvenience and administralation 10,000 and above. supplementary. free andHe fairsaid polls.Handwara sis for public at all booths nominations would be display of electoral rolls to be resolved, he added. mu, Soujanya Sharma, the take toral Officer (CEO), Mr. Umang Na- date of filing and Kupwara covered under tive Replying to place another while question of Syedvoters The also Deputy Commissioner, Jam-viability. appealing to check theirtowns are April 09, scrutiny would take The Ministerhere replying rula at a news conference today.to suppleoff point is near Peer Kho Shrine said that there two the programme with estimated cost Rs.occasion The Mohammad Rafiq Shah

by Dr. Bashir mu,anMr.A. K. Sahu onofthe names in the electoral rolls. on April 10 and April 12 is the lastraised mentary

by Ghulam Qadir Pardesi The CEO said notification for assured and Minister the landing point is are near Judicial District/Sessions Divisions Rev7.39 cores for each.

The provision of Aerial Ahmed Veeri, Mr. Sadhotra said that the that as soon as the land issue isseat resolved, Mr. Narula said this year photo said flying squads have been constidatethe of withdrawal of nominations.

Jammu-Poonch parliamentary Bahu Fort. The landing couldinnot enue District Doda, of which one HeadquarBunched Highthe Voltage Dis-of model powerbeinfrastructure in District Kupwara construction workononMarch the stadium be would tutedand to check violation voter slips would be made Cables avail- (ABC) Elections held on April 30. would be issued 15, last would be made near Bahu Fort since as Bhaderwah, having jurisdiction in tribution System (DVDS) R-APDRP shall old, whichfor requires maintenance andvoters im- in started. code of in conduct adding that atered toll at per able to the their vicinity Baramuldate of filing nominations would be He said theisnotification the norms, no tower can be Civil and Criminal matters, triable before help in revamping of distribution system in provement.

Replying to another question by free number 1077 has been set up to facilitate their smooth voting.

He la-Kupwara and Ladakh parliamenMarch 22, scrutiny would take place erected near the heritage site and District Judge, in respect of Bhaderwah and these areas, he maintained.

The Minister informed that HT/ Mr. Vijay Bakaya, the Minister informed that on March 24 and March 26 is the last tary seats would be issued on April said so far J&K has attained 92% of for the purpose. since Bahu and Fort the is aother heritage site, Gandoh (Bhalessa) headquarMr. Sadhotra said that the Electricity TarLT network improvement scheme has been the Government is committed to ensure12, uninDirector Information, Mr. Tasadiq last date of filing nominations Photo Electoral Rolls. He said efforts date of withdrawal of nominations. soDoda tower has to be 500 meters tered at having similar jurisdiction iff in J&K is being determined by Jammu and launched in the State for which an amount of terrupted power be supply metered areas. be April 19, scrutiny would are being made to ensure availability Jeelani, Consultant Election departElections would held to onthe April 10. would away the However, said monument. over Doda andfrom Thathri. the Court State Electricity Regulatory Com20 crore (Rs.April 1 crore per district) has beenlike Kashmir He said dueheto said, lossesnotification sustained on ment, Harcharan Singh, Joint Direcof basic facilities drinking water, take of placeRs. on April 21 and 23 is Similarly, foraccount The lastDistrict landingand is in Sessions Bahu village. of Additional Judge mission (JKSERC) which is an autonomous allocated, of which Rs. 0.5 crore per district illegal hooking, pilferage and theft resorted to tor Information Jammu, Ms. Smita of withdrawal of nomi- shelter etc at polling booths. He said Udhampur-Kathua parliamentary the last date It is clarified that the name the Jurisdiction over entire of District bodyVoting established J&Kother Electricity have been released so Khan far the current by the consumers; the department has issued Lone News Kangan News Agency Ganderbal Sethi and senior Act officersDoda are has first check of Electronic Ma- under nations.

Elections would be held on during seat would be issued on March 19,Agency project is “Peer of Kho to Bahu Fort”.

Doda under prevention Corruption Act. 2010.

He said that the Commission fixes tariff fiscal.

Mr. Sadhotra informed that the aim curtailment scheduledGulzar of 2 hour power supbeen done and the sec- present on the occasion.

May 07.Soura News Agency Zahidchines Book has Depot Chadoora last date of filing nominations would

Zabarwan Times is available at

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 Bhat News Agency Magam Zargar News Agency Kunzar Dar News Agency Beerwah Bashir NewsMARCH Agency05: Sumbal SHOPIAN, National culture keeping in view the new chalJAMMU, MARCH 05-Minister for Housing, Horticulture, Bank for Agriculture and Pattan Rural De- lenges and technologies in this field.

Culture and Youth Services and Sports Mr. Raman Bhalla Reshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News Agency velopment (NABARD) today said that Government is News on a comprehensive plan to Basharat Agency Bandipora Reyaz News Agencyconducted Pampore a He urged students to take benefit workshop on Agri-Clinics and Agri- of various govt sponsored entrepreprovide improved all basic amenities to the people across the Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid News Agency Qazigund Business Centres (ACABC) scheme at neurship development programmes State like safe drinking water, road connectivity, electricity, Jeelani News Agency Baramulla G.M News Agency Sopore Government Boys Higher Secondary and appreciated role of NABARD in health, education besides better lanes and drains.

Shah Newsthe Agency Sultan News Agency Handwara School Shopian, Programme Co-or- uplifting the modem education and To augment and improve waterKupwara supply of the difdinator Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), agriculture.DDM NABARD on this ocferent zones of the State, the Minister said instructions Younis News Agency Langate have Sheikh News Agency Islamabad Balpora Dr. Rekhy Singh been issued to PHE and ERANews authorities to prepare the projReshi Agency Islamabad ThreeShopian, Way News Agency Tralwas casion discussed in detail various govt chief guest on the occasion. sponsored schemes implemented via ects and submit the same for funding so that new deep drill Turray News Agency Tral Badru News Agency Bijbehara Other dignitaries present NABARD with special reference to tube wells could be constructed to meet the requirement of News Agency Malik Agency Arwani were DDMNews NABARD Shopian Dr. Nisar ACABC scheme. He urged students to drinking water supplyRahi in deficit areas of theKulgam State.

Ahmad, Principal Higher Sec- take benefit of different schemes and To improveRah the News powerAgency scenarioByepass in low voltage arShaheen News Boys Agency Kargil

Comprehensive plan for improved basic amenities to people: Bhalla

eas, the Minister informed that sufficient funds under APDRP scheme has been approved to install upgraded transformers, creation of receiving stations and replacement of worn out wires in the State.Mr. Bhalla called upon the people to cooperate with executing agencies in completing the ongoing development in their respective area. He also urged them to personally monitor the quality of development works.

Earlier, the Minister also visited Government Higher Secondary School, Bhour Camp and inspected the ongoing development works of Mini Stadium. He informed that the stadia would be constructed with the facilities of seating stairs, change room, pavellion and parking by December this year. Later, the Minister alongwith Managing Director Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board visited Channi Himmat Sector-2 Green Belt Park and inspected the ‘Jullas’ installed for children so that they enjoy their odd hours there with full joy.

NABARD holds workshop on ACABC Scheme at Pulwama

ondary School, Shopian, LDM Shopian, FLCC Co-ordinator, scientists from KYK and other Banking heads of the district, besides large number of agricultural and non agricultural graduates, was aimed at spreading awareness about various government sponsored schemes with special reference to ACABC scheme among the students.

Programme Co-ordinator KVK on this occasion laid stress on the Importance and role of extension activities in modern agriculture and said that agriculture extension activities are the life line of modem agri-

scholarships aimed at achieving higher education, employment generation and skill development. He said that district posseses a huge potential in the field of Agriculture and allied sectors and various programmes of NABARD need to be pushed in the field particularly agri-clinics centres, farmers clubs, self help groups, joint liability groups.

FLCC Co-ordinator Shopian and LDM Shopian addressed the students regarding role of NABARD and other banks in the field of entrepreneurship development and financial inclusion for the educated unemployed youth.

Anti-Polythene drive in Baramulla, Khansahib, Budgam SRINAGAR, MARCH 05: In order to

implement the orders passed by the High Court J&K, District Magistrate Baramulla hereby imposed ban on sale, purchase and use of polythene in the district. The field agencies have been asked to get this order implemented on the ground in letter and spirit and submit action taken reports on weekly basis.

As per the orders, the market checking squads have been constituted comprising Tehsildar, Executive Officer Municipal Committee, Station House Officer Baramulla and Tehsil Supply Officer CA&PD. Meanwhile, Municipal Committee, Khansahib has seized 3 Kg of polythene and has imposed an amount of Rs. 2100/- against the violators today, in connection special drive against the use of polythene.

DPRs of four- lane PandachGovt keen on conservation, Work on Thandapani stadium to be Beehama Sector framed: Wani restoration of historical

PoonchSadhotra Fort started after land issue is resolved: Rs. 7.39 cr each for Handwara, Kupwara towns under R-APDRP JAMMU, March 05- Minister for Planning, Labour and Development, Mr. Ajay Kumar Sadhotra replying to a question

by Mr. Ravinder Kumar Sharma today informed in the Legislative Council that the work on sports stadium at Thandapani was taken up for which Rs. 1 Lakh was provided by the concerned MLC during the year 2011-12. However, Forest Department claimed the proposed piece of land for construction of Stadium pertains to them.

The construction work on the project was stopped and the land issue is yet to be resolved, he added.

The DPRs for four lanning of PandachBeehama sector (Phase-I,replying Km-1 & to IInd) costThe Minister suppleing Rs. 25.32 comprising Rs. 12.48 crore mentary bycrore Ghulam Qadir Pardesi assured of acquisition cost and Rs. issue 12.84 crore of Dethat as soon as the land is resolved, velopment cost has work been framed. work the construction on theThe stadium shall commence after availability of funds. would be started.

The information wastogiven by question the MinReplying another ister forVijay R&B,Bakaya, Mr. Abdul Majid Wani while

by Mr. the Minister informed

replying to a question by Sheikh Ghulam Rasool in the Legislative Council today.

The Minister further informed that the road stretch km 12 (Batpura) that the committed to ento Government Km 30 (Wayil is Junction) of Srinagarsure uninterrupted supply towidth the Sonamarg is power of intermediate metered areas.

He said due lossesmainsus(IW) specification and to is being tained tained on account of illegal

by BRO. hooking, pilferage He said and the theft stretch is aligned resorted to by built-up the consumthrough area which is suscepers; the department has is- He said the tible to traffic congestion. constructionscheduled of Wayil Bye pass to Nasued curtailment tionalpower Highway Double of 2 hour supply in Lane (NHDL) specifications from Shailtang to Wayil metered areas. has reduced the congestion problem to The Minister informeda large that extent. in the unmeMinister further said that tered andThe partially metered transfer8of roadnormal sector from Hazratbal 11KV feeders, hours Zakoora to Wayil, (Km 12-13) curtailment is crossing being carried of Srinagar Lehare Highway, a proposal out. The T&D losses still transfer of said stretch from BRO aroundfor53% which clearly to that PWDenergy is under for which indicate is process not consent of even Government billed up to 100% in me- of India is being obtained before issuing formal notered areas, he added. tification.

Mr. Sadhotra said to another question by Mr. Sham thatReplying sometimes regular powLal Bhagat, the Minister informed that the er supply gets affected due to break down work on the execution in the first part of work and outagetoofPallali Grid on Stations and damages i.e. Atholie the PMGSY road conto the system network caused natural necting to Machail Chandi Mataby Mandir in calamities, vagaries of weather, failure of Padder Tehsil of Kishtwar district has been electrical equipment, adding that all such stopped due to stay of the High Court.

Opening of Timber Sale depot at Haripur under consideration: Altaf JAMMU, MARCH 05: The proposal for opening of Timber Sale depot Haripur Tehsil Hiranagar, District Kathua is under examination and will be considered keeping in view the past precedence, feasibility, availability of infrastructure and manpower in the department.

The information was given by Minister for Forests and Environment Mian Altaf Ahmad while replying to a question by Mr. Subash Chander Gupta in Legislative Council today.

DPRs of four- lane PandachBeehama Sector framed: Wani The DPRs for four lanning of Pandach-Beehama sector (Phase-I, Km-1 & IInd) costing Rs. 25.32 crore comprising Rs. 12.48 crore of acquisition cost and Rs. 12.84 crore of Development cost has been framed. The work shall commence after availability of funds.

The information was given by the Minister for R&B, Mr. Abdul Majid Wani while replying to a question by Sheikh Ghulam Rasool in the Legislative Council today.

The Minister further informed that the road stretch km 12 (Batpura) to Km 30 (Wayil Junction) of Srinagar-Sonamarg is of intermediate width (IW) specification and is being maintained by BRO. He said the stretch is aligned through built-up area which is susceptible to traffic congestion. He said the construction of Wayil Bye pass to National Highway Double Lane (NHDL) specifications from Shailtang to Wayil has reduced the congestion problem to a large extent.

The Minister further said that transfer of road sector from Hazratbal Zakoora crossing to Wayil, (Km 12-13) of Srinagar Leh Highway, a proposal for transfer of said stretch from BRO to PWD is under process for which consent of Government of India is being obtained before issuing formal notification.

Steps taken to promote tourism activities in Rajouri, Poonch

outages are attended on priority to ensure power supply to all affected areas.

G. N Monga and B. R. Kundal raised supplementary.Replying to another question of Syed Mohammad Rafiq Shah raised

by Dr.and Bashir Ahmed Minister for Planning Development, Veeri,While Mr. replying Sadhotra Mr. Ajay Sadhotra to asaid questhat the power tion by Dr. Shehnaz Ganai said infrastructhat governture in District ment has taken several steps toKupwara promote is pilold, whichtourism requires grimage and adventure in mainRajouri tenanceHeand and Poonch districts. saidimprovement. that an integratTheRajouri Minister that ed tourist circuit hasinformed been sanctioned network improveat a cost of Rs. HT/LT 598.53 lakh for developing tourment scheme has Sharief been ist related infrastructure at Ziyarat launched in the State for Sain Gangi, Gura Top, Chitti Bathi, Darhal, Topa Ziyarat etc.

He an said that construction which amount of Rs. 20 work on TRCcrore at Shahdra hasdisalso (Rs. 1 Sharief crore per been completed

by Rajouri Development Autrict) has been allocated, of thority at a cost of Rs.Rs. 1.710.5 crore besides this, which crore per disYatri Niwas at Mangla Mata,released Rajouri so has trict have been been completed a cost the of Rs. 63.81 lakhs faratduring current fiscal.by Directorate of Tourism, Jammu.

Mr. Sadhotra informed that the aim Thescheme Minister further said that of the was to replace theconstrucrotten tion work on Baitul Zaireen at Rajouri has poles, un-serviceable/ unauthorized conalso been taken up at a cost of Rs. 5 crore unductors; replacement of un-authorized/ der Special Task for Jammu. sub-standard lineForce supports with standard Similarly, the Minister said in Poonch a

project “Development of Mughal road lake

circuit infrastructure Development of of Girpoles, replacement of damaged LT cables gan, the valley of seven lakes” has been sancDistribution Transformers, replacement of tioned atinsulators a cost of Rs. lakhs and another damaged and419 damaged earthing “Development and Promotion ofproject Distribution Sub-Stations.

Priority isof ac-Pilgrim Circuit (TRC spots at Gurduwara Nangali corded to vulnerable where distribuSahib, TRC poses at Shririsk Budha Amarnath Ji and tion network to life and property.

TRC at Ziarat SainasMiran Sahib)”villages has also As many 38 Mohalla/ sanctioned.

Minister further ofbeen Kupwara DistrictThe have been taken up added unthat niwas at Nangali Budha der theyatri scheme during the yearSahib, 2013-14, he Amarnath, Sain Mira Shaib have also maintained. been completed.

The Minister further informed that Mr. Sadhotra said thatsanctioned many wayside R-APDRP scheme has been for developed at Ra30amenities towns ofhave the also Statebeen for the areas havjouri and Poonch at various places. ing population 10,000 and above. He said Regarding restoration historical Handwara and the Kupwara townsof are also Poonchunder Fort,the theprogramme Minister said the covered with that an esrestoration wascores taken in The hand timated cost ofwork Rs. 7.39 forup each. in the year 2006-07 at a cost of Rs. 40.55 provision of Aerial Bunched Cables (ABC) lakhs.

During the year 2011-12 another project and High Voltage Distribution System namelyin“Conservation and Restoration Plan (DVDS) R-APDRP shall help in revampforof Poonch Fort” was sanctioned at aareas, cost of ing distribution system in these 3.79 crore and the work issaid in progress. heRs.maintained.Mr. Sadhotra that the Mr. Sadhotra informed that Poonch DeElectricity Tariff in J&K is being determined Authority has beenElectricity instructed byvelopment Jammu and Kashmir State to float an Commission expression of(JKSERC) Interest (EOI) Regulatory whichfor of comprehensive ispreparation an autonomous body establishedDPR underfor conservation /restoration of left out porJ&K Electricity Act 2010. tion of the Fort.

Chairman appreciates Government, Information Deptt, print, electronic media JAMMU, FEBRUARY 5: Chairman, Legislative Council, Amrit Malhotra while adjourning the House sine-die today expressed gratitude to print and electronic media, especially Information Department, Radio and Doordarshan, for giving due coverage of the proceedings of the Council.

He also appreciated the officers and officials of the Council Secretariat for working tirelessly during day and night for running the business of the House smoothly.

Appreciating the Information Department, the Chairman said that it has performed its job in a most professional manner and its contribution is highly appreciable.

The Chairman also appreciated the Members for raising effectively the public interest issues besides extending support to the chair for conducting smoothly the business of the House. The Chairman also hailed the services of other departments associated with the business of the House.

Later the Members also thanked all those departments and media agencies associated with the conduct of the Budget Session.

Mr. Malhotra said as many as 311 Starred Questions were received, of which, 243 were taken up. Similarly out of 113 received Un-starred Questions, 106 were taken up.

He said out of 6 Short Notice Questions, one was

taken up and out of 7 Notices received under Rule 60-A, one was taken up besides out of the 7 Halfan-Hour Notice questions, 3 were taken up.

The Chairman said that out of 16 Private Members Bills, 15 were taken up, 16 papers were laid on the table of the House, 68 Calling Attention Notices were received, of which 37 were taken up, 9 Private members Resolutions were received and 8 were taken up. He said that 4 Money Bills were received and returned. Similarly 7 Bills other than the Money Bills were received and passed during the session.

The working of the 6 Ministries was also discussed during the session, he informed.

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 Cementing of Indo-Pak ties -imperative

A

gain the visit of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to Pakistan has been ruled out because of certain happenings in the past. India wants that Pakistan should demolish its terror structure which it thinks is being used against India putting the integrity and security of the country in danger. The happenings between the two countries of late have not been encouraging and both the countries have blamed each other for these unfortunate incidents. It is really disappointing that the Indo-Pak relations are going through a rough weather and whatever has been achieved so far is not being carried forward and encashed for cordial and friendly relations.

The whole world community wants the two countries to forget their past and take strides to cement their relations and overcome whatever the differences they have. There is no problem in the whole world which cannot be solved bilaterally, amicably and by sitting across the negotiation table. India and Pakistan both have same culture, same history and should understand each other better than any other country. There are issues between the two countries which have been hanging for the last several years and need to be addressed in a proper way through a meticulous mechanism. India has definitely taken some good steps forward and now Pakistan should reciprocate so that the two countries are not entangled in conflicts and controversies. The leadership of the two countries should understand the changing trends in the world which are definitely for unifying and cementing forces who do not believe in prolonging issues and continued animosities. Why should the two countries wait for others to mediate and why should not they solve their own problems by sitting across negotiation table.

The Confidence building measures between the two countries need to be strengthened, boarders silenced and negotiations to be given a fillip so that all issue are addressed side by side and these issues do not affect trade and commerce and friendly relations between the two countries.

F

Zabarwan Times

Srinagar, Thursday 06 March 2014

EVM - Electronic Voting Machine

ree and fair elections are central to the democratic ethos of any country. This includes fair, accurate, and transparent electoral process with outcomes that can be independently verified. Conventional voting accomplishes many of these goals.

However, electoral malpractices like bogus voting and booth capturing pose a serious threat to spirit of electoral democracy. It has, thus, been the endeavour of the Election Commission of India to make reforms in the electoral process to ensure free and fair elections. EVMs, devised and designed

by Election Commission of India in collaboration with two Public Sector undertakings viz., Bharat Electronics Limited, Bangalore and Electronics Corporation of India Limited, Hyderabad, is a major step in this direction.

Electronic Voting Machines ("EVM") are being used in Indian General and State Elections to implement electronic voting in part from 1999 elections and in total since 2004 elections. The EVMs reduce the time in both casting a vote and declaring the results compared to the old paper ballot system. Bogus voting and booth capturing can be greatly reduced by the use of EVMs. Illiterate people find EVMs easier than ballot paper system. They are easier to transport the EVMs compared to ballot boxes.

EVM has become the leitmotif of the world's largest democratic exercise and gets smarter with each avatar. Here is an attempt to briefly trace the evolution of the EVM and its use in the world’s largest democracy.

Electronic Voting Machines (EVM)

Chronological development of EVM v EVMs were first used in 50 polling stations of Parur Assembly Constituency of Kerala in May 1982. v These machines could not be used after 1983 after a Supreme Court ruling that necessitated legal backing for the use of Voting machines in elections. The law was amended by Parliament in December, 1988 and a new section 61A was inserted in the Representation of the People Act, 1951 empowering the Commission to use voting machines. The amended provision comes into force w.e.f. 15th March, 1989. v The matter regarding use of EVMs was referred by the Government of India to Electoral Reforms Committee, appointed by the Central Government in February, 1990 consisting of representatives of several recognized National and

T

Daily

State parties. v An Expert Committee was constituted by the Govt. of India, consisting of Prof. S. Sampath, then Chairman RAC, Defence Research and Development Organization, with Prof. P.V. Indiresan, then with IIT, Delhi and Dr C. Rao Kasarabada, the Director Electronics Research and Development Centre, Trivandrum. In its report, the committee concluded that these machines are tamper-proof. v On 24th March, 1992, necessary amendment to the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961 was notified by the Government in the Ministry of Law and Justice. v The Commission again constituted Technical Expert Committee in December, 2005 comprising Prof. P.V. Indiresan, Prof. D.T. Shahani of IIT Delhi and Prof. A.K. Agarwala of IIT Delhi to get the new version EVMs evaluated before finally accepting these machines for actual use in elections. v Subsequently, the Commission has been consulting a group of technical experts comprising Prof. (Late) P.V. Indiresan (member of the earlier committee), Prof. D.T. Shahani and Prof. A.K. Agarwala of IIT Delhi, on all EVM related technical issues. In November, 2010, the Commission has expanded its Technical Expert Committee

by including two more experts, namely, Prof D.K. Sharma from Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT of Mumbai and Prof. Rajat Moona from Department of Computer Science and Engineering, IIT of Kanpur (now Director General, C-DAC). v Since, November 1998, EVMs have been using in each and every general/bye elections to Parliamentary and Assembly Constituency. India turned into an e-democracy in General Elections 2004 when 10.75 lakh EVMs were used across all polling Stations in the country. Since then, all elections were conducted by EVMs .

Salient Features of EVMs: v It is tamper proof & simple to operate v Program which controls the functioning of the control unit is burnt into a micro chip on a “one time programmable basis”. Once burnt it cannot be read, copied out or altered. v Eliminates the possibility of invalid votes, makes the counting process faster and reduces the cost of printing. v An EVM can be used in areas without electricity as it runs on alkaline batteries. v Elections can be conducted through EVMs if the number of candidates does not exceed 64. v An EVM can record a maximum number of 3840 votes.

Prioritizing Road Safety in India

he UN General Assembly has adopted 2011-2020 as the Decade of Action for Road Safety and set a goal for reducing fatalities from road accidents by 50 percent during the period recognizing the severe impact of road accidents on global health. Every year about 1.2 million people die and 50 million get affected in road accidents globally losing 1.2 trillion US Dollars in these accidents, says Mr. K K Kapila, Chairman, International Road Federation. According to the World Health Organization unless concerted action is taken, road traffic injuries are predicted to become the fifth leading cause of death in the world by 2030.

With the growing urbanization and vehicular traffic, the issue of safety on roads also keep growing in terms of concerns and solutions. The concern becomes all the more relevant in view of the fact that number of persons killed in road accidents in India is the highest in the world. More than 4.97 lakh road accidents in 2011 are reported to have claimed over 1.42 lakh lives.

These numbers translate into roughly one road accident per minute and one road accident death every four minutes for India.

Though the data for the year 2012 shows a declining trend with over 4.90 lakh accidents claiming 1.38 lakh lives, still the number is too high to give reason to breathe easy. The analysis of road accidents in terms of causal factor’s reveals that drivers’ fault accounts for 78.7 per cent (3,85,934 accidents) of total road accidents. The reason behind fault may vary from alcohol/ drugs to mobile addiction, overloading/overcrowding of vehicles, exceeding lawful speed and tiredness etc. Since drivers’ fault has been found responsible for about 80% road accidents, it is important to make them aware and realize that they are the killers on roads when they violate the laws/measures.

Road Safety is being prioritized at Political Level.

The focus is shifting from ad-hoc Road Safety Activities to Sustainable Programmes. A systematic state capacity review of the existing road safety management system has been recommended while formulating long term goals, interim targets, strategies and programmes. This includes a high-level multi-sectoral strategic examination of a range of activities and involves senior management from the key governmental agencies - Transport, Police, Health, Justice and Ed-

ucation, who may not all be actively engaged as yet– as well as all other stakeholders who are able and should contribute to the delivery of road safety results.

The Ministry of RTH has taken steps to minimize road accidents in the country. The Government has approved a National Road Safety Policy. This Policy outlines various policy measures such as promoting awareness, establishing road safety information data base, encouraging safer road infrastructure including application of intelligent transport, enforcement of safety laws etc. The Government has constituted National Road Safety Council as the apex body to take policy decisions in matters of road safety. The Ministry has requested all States/UTs for setting up of State Road Safety Council and District Road Safety Committees.

The Ministry has adopted a multi-pronged strategy to address the issue of road safety based on four E’s of Road Safety that is Education, Enforcement, Engineering (roads as well as vehicles) and Emergency care.

Road safety has been made an integral part of road design at the planning stage. Road Safety Audit of selected stretches of National Highways/Expressways adopted. Driving training institutes being established, Tightening of safety standards of vehicles like helmets, seat belts, power-steering, rear view mirror and Publicity campaigns on road safety awareness.

Besides observing Road Safety Week, media campaigns through Doordarshan and Radio networks, Printing and distribution of Road Safety material, advertisements in newspapers and organizing conferences/seminars/ workshops on Road Safety, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways continues to undertake new initiatives to ensure road safety.

These include efforts for inclusion of a chapter on road safety in the · Text books of Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) syllabus in Class VI to Class XII. State Governments have also been advised to include Road Safety education in the curriculum of the schools administered by the State Education Board. · Providing cashless treatment to road accident victims for 48 hours at expenditure up to a limit of Rs. 30,000/-a pilot project launched on Gurgaon-Jaipur section of NH 8.

· Identification of top 25 black spots in 13 States which account for 90% of road accidents in India. The short term remedial measures have been completed for most of the black spots identified. · Finalisation of National Ambulance Code based on the recommendations of the Working Group on Emergency care. This ’Code’ puts in place minimum standards and guidelines regarding the constructional and functional requirements of road ambulances in India. · Notifying Consignments protruding beyond the body of goods carrier as illegal.

The strategy for ensuring road safety being multipronged, many government departments share responsibility for road safety. Special arrangements are required to put in place to ensure close co-ordination and accountability. For ensuring better coordination among key Government agencies concerned with road safety including local government, all the State Governments have been advised to constitute High Level Committees headed by the Chief Secretary to take stock of the road safety scenario in their States and the measures required to be instituted at the State level to reduce road accident fatalities. The States have been advised to prepare action plan on road safety for their States. The States’ annual action plan on road safety needs to set ambitious but realistic targets for at least five years. It should have measurable outcomes and sufficient funding to develop, implement, man­age, monitor and evaluate actions. All the States/UTs have been asked to identify a lead agency in the State and also set up Road Safety Fund at the State level by earmarking 50% of the funds generated from fines on account of violation of traffic rules.

Though UN decade of action plan to reduce road fatalities by 50% started in 2011, after three years much needs to be done. In India, budget for Road Safety needs to be enhanced and proper road safety plans/ mechanism to be in place in all the States. It needs to be ensured that orders relating to Road Safety that exist are followed strictly and violation punished. Parliamentarians and corporate world may be engaged by way of diverting a part of funds from MPLAD and CSR and contributing for the cause of Road Safety. The collective efforts of all stakeholders are bound to make significant impact on making roads safer, arresting human suffering due to road related mishaps and achieving goals set by UN.

Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer