Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 20 February by Zabarwan Times

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20 February | 2014 | 19 Rabi-Al-Thani 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

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‘Militant’s’ killing triggers violent clashes in Chrar-e-Sharief Cop among 4 injured Srinagar, Feb 19: Violent clashes broke out at Dalwan area of Charar-eSharief in central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Wednesday after army claimed to have killed an unidentified militant in an encounter. Officials told GNS that an army party was moving towards village Dalwan in Chrar-e-Sharief this afternoon when it came under fire from the militants. In the retaliatory fire one unidentified gunman got killed. “From his possession, one SLR, one Pouch, 4 magazines, 13 rounds, one grenade and PAN Card was recovered,” Srinagar based, army spokesman in a statement issued late eve-

ning said. The spokesman said that the PAN card identifies the slain as Tauseef Ahmad Dar son of Ghulam Hassan of Pulwama. “The police party has taken the possession of the body and is trying to ascertain the identity of the body,” the spokesman added. However, police sources told GNS that the incident took place when two youth on a motorbike (JKO4A- 451) were intercepted by the army team in the village after receiving intelligence inputs suggesting militant movement in the area. While the pillion rider managed to escape, the biker was shot dead by army when he tried to open fire upon the army men. “After killing him, the army took the body in their custody,” sources said. The news of the killing of the alleged

militant spread like wildfire in the village. Hundreds of people came out on the roads and staged pro-freedom demonstrations. Chanting pro-Independence, pro-militants and anti-India slogans, the protesters tried to march towards the army camp. However, the CRPF troopers and police, who had reached the spot, burst teargas canisters. The forces also opened fire when the agitated protesters refused to budge. At least four people, including a policeman Bashir Ahmed were injured in the clashes. A youth, who received bullet injury in the clashes, has been referred to Srinagar hospital for treatment. He has been identified as Bilal Ahmad Sheikh son of Mohammad Afzal of Pakherpora. The clashes were going on when the last reports came in. (GNS)

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VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 51 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa) tice

140 militants lodged in different jails in J&K Srinagar, Feb 19: Stating that more 140 foreign militants are lodged in different jails in Jammu and Kashmir, government Wednesday stated that no person incarcerated in jails outside the state of JK. According to KNS correspondent, in its response to the question submitted by a PDP legislator Dr Shafi Ahmad Wani, the government stated that Central jail Jammu has 22 while has in Srinagar central jail 29 foreign militants are detained. It further maintained that in district jail Jammu and Kutua 54 and 6 militants of foreign nationality See Militants On Page 11..

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

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1733 cases registered against 9000 youth since 2009 Srinagar, Feb 19: Stating that there is no general amnesty plan for the people involved in militancy or crime, the state government on Wednesday said that 1733 cases have been registered against over 9000 youths since it took over the reins of power in the state. The government also said that it is in touch with the government of India for phased revocation of AFSPA in the state. According to KNS correspondent, in its written response to the two separate questions posed by Mehbooba Mufti and Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, the government has said that from 2009 to January 2014, the police registered 1733 cases in different police stations against 9166 youths. According to the KNS correspondent, CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami asked about the circumstances under which Disturbed Areas Act(DAA) and Armed Forces Special Power Act(AFSPA) were made operative with the date of operation thereof in the state. In its written response, the state government stated that The Jammu and Kashmir Disturbed Areas Act 1990 (DDA) and the Armed Forc-

es (Jammu and Kashmir) Special Powers Act 1990 (AFSPA) were enacted to tackle the unprecedented security situation prevailing in the state after eruption of militancy in 1989. It stated further that while the Jammu and Kashmir Disturbed Areas Act 1990 came into force w.ef 3rd July 1990 and Armed Forces (Jammu and Kashmir) Special Power Act 1990 came into force w.e.f July 5, 1990. Tarigami had further submitted that Whether the situation has improved since these two Acts were applied: if so, the reasons for non-withdrawal of these Acts and till date: and whether the state govt. has approached the Union govt. regarding the withdrawal of these Acts? If so, the details of the results thereof. The state government in its response stated that the security and law &order situation has improved considerably in the state over the past few years. With the improvement in the overall security and law & order situation, the state government has been advocating the gradual removal of AFSPA in the state beginning from the areas where no militancy incident has been reported for See Youth On Page 11..

NC led regime has caused incalculable damage to democratic institutions: Mufti

Jammu, Feb 19: Patron of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that system of governance is completely collapsed in J&K and the prese nt regime has brazenly indulged into deceitful tactics by ignoring real issue of fair governance. According to a statement

issued to KNS, addressing a function to welcome Abdul Qayoom Khan, IFS, ex-Chief Conservator of Forest, who is resident of Rajbagh Srinagar, Mufti regretted that during the last five and half year the issue of governance has been pushed to the backburner and those who are at the helm of the affairs have been shamelessly indulged into rampant corruption, nepotism and their misdeeds have badly shaken peoples’ faith in the system. “The present regime has nothing to See Mufti On Page 11..

Protests in Sopore over alleged police indifference

Rare sculpture found at Wachi Shopian

Srinagar, Feb 19: Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and police on Wednesday resorted to teargas shelling to disperse people who were protesting against the alleged inaction of police to trace a youth abducted by unknown gunmen from Sopore town of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Reports reaching GNS said that scores of people this morning took to streets at Arampora Sopore and staged anti-government demonstrations. The protests shouting slogans alleged that the police have failed to recover a youth Mushtaq Ahmad Changa, son of Ghulam Ahmad Changa, who was kidnapped by See Protests On Page 11..

Srinagar, Feb 19: A rare 9th century stone sculpture, showing lord Shiva—Hindu deity— wearing three peaked crown, has been found by the department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums Kashmir at Wachi in south Kashmir’s Shopian district. The sculpture had earlier got unearthed from the river bed of Nallah Rambara at Malhora during an event of Sand extraction of the site. The find was then collected by the concerned DPO Wachi, who informed the Archaeology department. The experts from the department of archaeology inspected the site and collected the artefact. According to GNS, the departmental experts investigating the find have described it a big See Shopian On Page 11..

CCA calls off strike Administration to register all coaching centers with 15 days

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Srinagar, Feb 19: Coaching Centers Association (CCA) of Kashmir has called off the proposed Friday strike after Divisional Commissioner issued orders to Director Education for registering all eligible coaching centers within 15 days. The decision to call off the proposed strike was taken by the association after a successful meeting with the administration under the aegis of Divisional Commissioner. Talking to KNS, Sahilnder Kumar, divisional commissioner Kashmir said: “Yes I chaired the meeting and I have passed certain instructions to the director school education in this regard.” When contacted director school education, Mir Tariq Ali, said: “Owners of the

coaching centres have been asked to make bylaws. We have been directed to prepare a checklist of prerequisite for the registration of coaching centres.” “We have decided to call off the strike after the administration accepted almost all of our demands regarding the regularization of private tuition industry,” said G N Var, chairman CCA. “This will go a long way in benefiting the students and the society.” The meeting was also attended by Deputy Commissioner, Director Education and AC Nazool. “Director Education was directed to give the checklist required for registering a coaching centre within one day and then the eligible centers would have See CCA On Page 11..

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Srinagar, Thursday 20 February 2014

From the front page

Militants have been detained. “In Ponch there are 4, rajori has 4while as in Baramulla there are 2 foreign militants lodged.” The reply mentioned that 9 foreign militants and in Kupwara there are 2 militants of the same origin detained. The response given by ministry in-charge Home stated that Sub jail Hira Nagar has 8 foreign militants. Dr Wani had further submitted before the house that how many cases of sexual harassment, rape, gender discrimination and female feticide have been booked. According to the PDP legislator, the state government in its reply has filed that it has no information about the same. Dr Wani while talking to KNS cornered government over what he termed a deliberate attempt to hide the information. He stated that government is showing non-serious attitude towards the serious crimes like rape and sexual harassment. “See how much Delhi is taking serious note of the issue and contrary our government says it has no information about the cases of rape in the state.” PDP legislator stated further that the female feticide has become the growing trend in valley and that the ratio of females in the state has decreased at large. “What can one say when the government has no details about the same- may God save this dispensation.” (KNS)

Youth quite some time now. The state government has been raising the issue of phase-wise removal of AFSPA in different forums of Government of India from time to time, for required action. (KNS)

Mufti

show as its achievement of five and half year tenure”, he observed and added the legalization corruption and subverting democratic institutions are only noticeable achievements of this government. Lambasting National Conference led coalition regime for abusing the state apparatus to stifle voice of the people, Mufti said that prevailing chaos and anarchist situation in Jammu and Kashmir is result of the oppressive means being adopted by the present dispensation. Mufti said that the system of governance has completely been collapsed in the State but the ruling elites are not ready to accept the ground realities. “The present government has become synonymous with corruption and scams”, he said and during the last five and half years this regime has caused incalculable damage to the democratic institutions in J&K. He especially mentioned that postponing civic bodies elections is an example how this regime has snatched democratic rights from the people. “Sanctity of all democratic institutions has been eroded by this regime during the last five and half years”, he said and observed that dictatorial attitude of present regime has again shattered peoples faith. PDP patron, however, asserted that his party would continue to work for strengthening democratic institutions in the State. Pointing towards joining of Abdul Qayoom Khan in the party, Mufti said, “PDP has emerged as strong, genuine and credible voice of the people of Jammu and Kashmir through its convictions and visionary policies”, he said. “The pro people visionary agenda of the party is formulated by incorporating wishes and aspirations of all sections of the society and we never compromised with our agenda for attaining power”, he said and adding that joining of large number of people was a clear indication that this party has become a real voice of the people of J&K. He said that that aim of PDP was not only to attain power but to change fate of people of Jammu and Kashmir. He sought support of the people to change destiny of the residents of Jammu and Kashmir and said that it was his desire to establish a system where every sections of the society would get justice and equal opportunities for development and economic growth. Mufti said that PDP envisaged a system of fair governance where people would really feel empowered. “We are committed to the cause of establishing a system for making political class accountable to the people”, he said. He reminded that PDP led regime in the State had “proved how to change the life of people by following pro-people policies.” “We had just 16 members in our kitty but we took pro-people revolutionary steps to provide justice to the all sections of the society,” he said and added that it was only during PDP led regime that “governance consciousness was generated in the people of the State.” Speaking on the occasion, Abdul Qayoom Khan said that he has decided to join PDP due to the policies and programmes of the party. (KNS)

Protests unknown masked gunmen from his house in Hyder Colony last month. The protesters, including a large number of women said that three weeks have passed but the police is clueless about the youth’s whereabouts. Some on the protesters also pelted stones on the police. The police resorted to lathi charge and lobbed tear smoke shells to disperse the protesters. The clashes continued for sometime leading to a spontaneous shutdown. “We’re trying our best to find the youth. If the family has suspicion over someone, they should share it with police. We’re hopeful that we’ll trace the youth soon,” Superintendent of Police (SP) Sopore, Abdul Qayoom told Global News Service. (GNS)

Shopian achievement in field of Kashmir sculpture history. The sculpture has been identified as Lord Shiva, shown wearing three peaked crown. The sculpture has broken arms and legs depicting Shiva with a third eye on its forehead.. The sculpture has been dated to the 9th century AD and has close resemblance with the Vishnu sculptures found earlier from Awantipora. It is in place to mention here that a well advanced sculpture art school flourished at Awantipora during the reign of Raja Avantivarman in the early 9th century AD, but this school mostly produced the sculptures of Vishnu school of thought and Vikunta Vishnu turned to be the most impressive sculpture of this era. There are several such sculptures of Vikunta Vishnu preserved in the State Museum at Lalmandi which are recorded here to have been found from Avantipura. However, there has been no such sculpture evidence from Wachi area of south Kashmir in the archaeological records of the state. The locals claim that there has been no archaeological survey of this area, they have demanding for conducting of the archaeological survey of this area to explore the hidden treasures of Wachi. Although there has been no earlier evidence of any antiquity to have been found in this area but the village is famous for the ancient Khanqah which is believed to have been founded here by Syed Mir Mohammad Hamadani in the 15th century AD. (GNS)

Zabarwan Times

CCA

to be registered within the next 15 days,” said Var. “Every file would be routed through CCA and the association would be kept in loop while registering any outside center.” The director education was also asked to give a reply in writing, in case they refuse registration to any coaching center. The divisional commissioner suggested a mechanism wherein coaching centers would implement all guidelines in tandem with administration. “Our association was asked to constitute bylaws and hold regular elections to make it a fully democratic body,” said Var. “In case any coaching center violates the norms, the district administration as well as the director education would have the power to inspect the same,” said Var. “The association has also been asked to give in writing that we would abide by the laws.” The meeting also kept a cap of 125 on the number of coaching centers. “The number would be revised during annual meetings, the next one would be held in January 2015,” said Var. The association expressed its gratitude to Divisional Commissioner for taking a prompt action in this vital issue and help in saving the career of thousands of students. (KNS)

Nehama protests erratic power Supply

Zabarwan times.

HDFC Bank cheated a school to the tune of Rs 2 lakhs

‘Complaint was rejected by RBI’

Srinagar, Feb 19, CNS: Srinagar Group of Schools (SGS) Chairman, who runs chain of schools in Srinagar Wednesdayalleged that that HDFC Bank Chanapora Branch cheated them by deducting transaction charges to the tune of Rs 2 lakhs in six months. The chairman SGS told CNS that Chanapora branch of HDFC Bank approached Srinagar British School, Nowgam to open its school accounts with the promise that the current account will be opened with Zero Balance and parents can deposit tuition fee and transport charges in any branch of HDFC Bank in Srinagar city and there will be no transaction charges. “The Bank authorities got blank form signed by school authorities and later on they deducted an amount to the tune of Rs 2 lakhs,” he said. The chairman told CNS that when the school authorities contacted the branch they assured that the transaction charges will be reversed in case they take an insurance policy of Rs 50,000. “On taking insurance policy, the HDFC bank did not reverse the entire amount and when again contacted, they gave another pretext of maintaining minimum balance, where as account was opened with zero balance,” he said adding that when the school maintained minimum balance, still bank continued to charge transaction fee,” he said adding that the Bank cheated the school to the tune of Rs 2 lakhs from March to August 2013. When contacted, one of the official of HDFC Bank Chanapora Branch told CNS that the said school had taken up the matter with Reserve Bank of India and the Central Bank rejected their claim after, ‘we provided all the evidences against their claim.’ (CNS)

New Delhi, Feb 19: Division Bench of the Supreme Court comprising of Dr. B.S. Chauhan, A.K. Sikri and Justice M.Y. Eqbal Wednesday after a brief hearing from the Senior Counsel, Prof Bhim Singh and J&K Advocate-General M.I. Qadri ordered to list the writ petition seeking CBI probe into the custodial death of Haji Yousuf who allegedly in custody in 2011. Prof. Bhim Singh, made a strong appeal to the court for its intervention so that the custodial death shall be investigated by an independent agency, CBI to ensure that the cul-

prits are brought to justice without any further delay. He said that a noted ruling party (NC) leader was invited by the Chief Minister at his residence and nobody knows what happened with him inside. It is on record that Yousuf Haji was assaulted inside Chief Minister’s House and he was taken to police station on the orders of the Chief Minister Prof. Bhim Singh submitted before the Supreme Court that this is the rarest of the rare case which needed thorough investigation because the entire police hierarchy including Director General of Police, the Chief

Secretary and of course the Chief Minister were responsible for this custodial death. were of advisory nature only. Prof. Bhim Singh has also referred to important cases where Justice Dr. B.S. Chauhan was a member of the Division Bench of the Supreme Court which had ordered investigation by CBI in a Gujarat case. It was with the permission of the court that Mr. Talib Hussain, son of Yousuf Haji has also joined as a petitioner. The court ordered that the case shall be listed on 31st March, 2014. (CNS)

Jammu and Kashmir Government

Office of the Executive Engineer Irrigation &F.G Division Baramulla

Shabir-uz-Zaman Pulwama, Feb 18: People of Nehama Pampore and adjoining areas protested against the erratic power supply on Wednesday. Hundreds of people assembled in Wanpora Chowk and shouted slogans against the power development department. The protests caused a hectic traffic jam on Srinagar-Pulwama road for more than two hours. Nehama, Wanpora, Parigam, Magray Pora, Bat-e-Pora, Loolipora and Hunipora are the villages that have been reeling under darkness since long, alleged locals. “We get electricity only for two hours in a day and that too plays hide and seek”, Javaid Bhat hailing from Hunipora told Zabarwan Times. The locals of the Nehama hamlet have expressed a deep anguish over the apathetic role of PDD. They threatened if the department fails to restore the normal supply of electricity in the area, they will stop paying the bills which otherwise they pay on time. “We will disconnect our lines and stop paying them if they don’t act as per the schedule”, a village welfare committee member told

SC to hear Custodial death petition of Haji Yousuf on March 31

Short term Tender Notice No: (13) OF 2013-14

For and on behalf of Governor of Jammu and Kashmir State sealed tenders valid for 90 days, affixed with Revenue Stamps worth Rs6/- are invited for below mentioned works, from the registered PWD Contractors of all Engineering wings whose enlistment cards are valid and free for the capacity of work and Self Help Groups as shown agauist each work here under, to whom all the terms and conditions of detailed Master N.I.T. and PWD form 25 are acceptable. s No

Name of work

Ady Cost (inLac8)

Earnest Classof money (in Contract Es.)

Head of Account

Cost of Tender Document (inBs)

Timeof Position of Completion funds in days

Constr. Of lining wall on both sides including bed treatment on Dawlat khul D/S RCC Acq. Near village Charligund Spot 2nd.

3.24

6480/-

S.H.G.

4702

400/-

Demanded

Construction of foot culvert at Hapatnar Nallah near house of Shaban Lone & others .

2.56

5120

DEE

2711 M&R

300/-

Demanded

Constr. Of F.P. work by way of masonry R/wall near the land of Ab. Majeed R/O: Nadihal on Hapatnar Nallah.

2.11

4220/-

DEE

2711 M&R

300/-

Demanded

F. P. work by way of construction of retaining wall and Toe wall to existing retaining wall near Mosque Kanlibagh Nallah and near House of M. Mohan kour at Kanlibagh Baramulla.

1.51

1510/-

S.H.G.

2711 M&R

200/-

Demanded

Construction of F.P. work near the iand o^AbrRashid'MaHa- ----- (Surpanch) and others on shulpora Nallah tributary of Vij Nallah at Panzalla.

1.18

1180/-

DEE

2711 M&R

200/-

Demanded

F. P. work by way of construction of crate bund on left side'of OFC near 0.53 house of Haseena Begum wife of Mohd. Yousuf Bhat at Sheeri Baramulla.

1060/-

DEE

2711 M&R

100/-

Demanded

F. P. work by way of construction of crate work on Kanli Bagh Nallah near Baitul Mukaram Masjid Baramulla.

660/-

DEE

2711M&R

100/-

Demanded

0.33

Clearance of silt / mulba from sump intake channel of LIS Janbazpora 0.31 620/DEE 2702100/10 Demanded stage 1". M&R The tenders be addressed to The Executive Engineer Irrigation and Flood Control Division Baramulla and should reach to his office by or before 24-02-2014 up to 2.00 PM by hand Which will be opened on the same day or any other date convenient to the Executive Engineer in presence of the intending tenderers who may like to be present. The tenderers shall have to cast their tenders on the tender documents which shall be issued to the intending tenderers from (18-02-2014) to (20-01-2014) up to 3.00 PM, only on remittance of the cost of tender document in to the Divisional Chest against proper G.R. as shown against each work. In case the last date of the receipt of teners be a holiday or off day the tenders shall be received on next working day up to 2.00 PM.

DIPK:13945

Sd/- Executive Engineer

GOVT OF JAMMU & KASHMIR

OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE ENGINEER R&B DIVISION SUMBAL TENDER NOTICE NO. 67 Of 2013-14

For and on behalf of the Governor Of Jammu and Kashmir State, sealed tenders/bids affixed with Rs.5/-revenue stamps are invited from the approved/registered PWD Contractors of the classes shown against each for the works as indicated below which should reach the office of the Executive Engineer R&B Division, Sumbal on or before 24.02.2014 up to 2 P.M. The tenders/bids will be opened on the same day or any other convenient in presence of the Contractors who may like to be present. S. No

Name of the Work

Approx. Cost incl. C/O Deptt. stores

Upgradation of Lochipeth link road including laying of RCC Pipes Rs.2.1.6 lacs from culvert taking off from Sumbal Khurwan road Km 2nd). Under Incld. C/O RCC Schemei-Upgradation of Sumbal Wangipora Sumbal Nesbal, Sum- Pipes bal Arampora road, Dumpora road and allied links.

Earnest Money

Class of Contractor

Period of Completion

Major Head Cost of Tender Docum ent

4320/-

DEE

20 Days

NABARD

200/-

Position of Funds : DEMANDED Special Conditions

1. Tenderers are at liberty to submit their tender in person or through registered post. 2. In case the last date of submission of the tenders happens-to-be a holiday/Hartal, the same shall be received on the next working day upto 2 PM 3. The tenderers are advised to see the site before tendering for the work and quote the rates in words as well as in figures. 4. The tenderers should cover the rates they quote with transparent cello tape without cuttings. 5. The work shall have to be completed within the stipulated period from the date of issuance of allotment order/LOI. 6. In case the agency fails to complete the work physically within the stipulated period, penalty shall be imposed upon the executing agency. Besides contractor can be black listed and contract also cancelled. 7. The bidder/tenderer is required to deposit the earnest money in the shape of call deposit receipt from any scheduled Bank pledged to Executive Engineer PWD (R & B) Division Sumbal and the Call Deposit Receipt shall be attached with the tender, without which the tender shall not be considered at all. Bids/tenders accompanied with cheques will not be entertained in any case. 8. At the time of issuance of documents, the tenderers have to submit/produce their valid registration card, valid TIN No. together with the prescribed document fee without which no document shall be issued. 9. The CDR should be pledged to opening authority. 10. The contractor has to dump the materials at site as per loose quantity required as per the book of specifications But the payments will be made for compacted quantity only.

DIPK: 13969

Sd/- Executive Engineer

GOVERNMENT OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR

OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE ENGINEER R&B DIVISION PULWAMA KMR. (SHORT) N.I.T NO:- 140/EEP/R&B/Pul/2013-14/T-I/EEP/11585-400 DATED:-17.02.2014 For and on behalf of the Governor of J&K State, the Executive Engineer R&B Division Pulwama invites Tenders for the following works from the Regd. Contractors in sealed envelope affixed with Rs.5/- Revenue stamps with Name and full address of the tenderer, Ref. NIT NO & Date and ref. to CDRNO & Date with amount only prescribed on the envelope. The tenders be addressed to:-Executive Engineer PWD R&B Division Pulwama, And should reach his office on or before 22.02.2014 upto 2 pm. The tender documents can be had on cash payment (Non-refundable) on production of valid registration card upto 21.02.2014 2 pm. S.No 1.

Name of work

Upgradation of Chennawari and Asthan Mohalla Link Roads at Ratnipora by way of providing of WBM Grade-III Incl. Contruction of cement concrete drain (Interior Roads at Ratnipora) Head Draftsman DIPK:140001

Approx Cost

Earnest Money

4.80 Lacs Rs.9600/-

Class of Contractor

Time of Completion

Cost of M.H of TD Account

DEE

25 DAYS

Rs.200

4059 NABARD

Position of Position of AAA/TS Funds Funds Demanded

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

house passes grants of animal & Sheep husbandry deptts 2 Liquid Nitrogen plants being set, 28000 animals to be insured: Gurezi AMMU, FEBRUARY 19- Minister of State for Animal and Sheep Husbandry, Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi today said that keeping in view the primary importance of livestock in the State’s economy, the Government has rolled out a comprehensive policy with focus on genetic up-gradation of indigenous livestock. The Minister was replying to the discussion on the Demand of Grants for the Departments of Animal and Sheep Husbandry in Legislative Assembly today. The Minister said that the contribution of late Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah will be remembered for ever for the vision he had for strengthen-

ing and creating infrastructure under Animal and Sheep sectors.Listing the achievements registered during the last fiscal, the Minister informed that two Liquid Nitrogen (LN2) Plants have been approved for the State, one each at Jammu and Kashmir. He said this will minimize expenditure on the import of liquid nitrogen and save public exchequer. He said 19th livestock census and breed survey has now been completed in the State, adding that a target of 28000 animals has been fixed to be brought under Livestock Insurance Scheme (LIS). The Minister said that Artificial Insemination registered increase of 67% from 2007-08 to 2012-13 and

corresponding increase of 48% in the induction of Cross breed calves annually from 20072008. He said this translates to induction of 1.18 lakh CB female calves on an average annually. The Milk production in the State has crossed 20 lakh MTs annually, ending 2012-13 as against 15.48 lakh MT in 2007-08. Mr. Gurezi said that due to the sustained efforts of the Government there is an increase in last five years of 37% in production of day old chicks in Government hatcheries. He said National Animal Disease Reporting System has been launched at district, division and State level with a Central Monitoring Unit for prompt reporting.

196 hectares covered under command area project in Sangrama: Mir

Rs. 56.71 cr Ningli-Amargarh project under consideration

Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir today informed the House that at present 196 hectares of land in 10 villages including Tangwari Balla, Tangwari Pyeen, Kalantra Balla, Burzoowachan, Shiekhpora, Kalantra Payeen, Kakowthal, Moongam Harshnov, Kawachak and Durhama of Sangrama Constituency are covered under FerozporaTangmarg command area development project and so far 50 hectares of land have been covered by expending

Zabarwan Times is available at

Production of 9000 MWs power during 12th, 13th Plan envisaged: Vikar

Lone News Agency Kangan Gulzar News Agency Soura Tariq News Agency Hawal Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Magam Dar News Agency Beerwah Minister of State for Power, Mr. Vikar Newsthat Agency Safapora Rasool today informedReshi the House for expeditious development of hydroBasharat News Agency Bandipora electric power projects, theNews GovernAltaf Agency Pulwama ment has laid down an implementation Jeelani News Agency Baramulla frame work for hydel projects in the Shah News Agency Kupwara State in various modes. News Agency Langate Replying to aYounis question by Ch. Zulfikar Ali, Mr. Vikar said that the J&K Reshi News Agency Islamabad State Hydro-Electric Projects DevelopTurray News Agency Tral ment Policy 2011 has been notified to Rahi News Agency Kulgam encourage private sector participation. Rah NewsofAgency Byepass He said with the implementation the

178 habitations covered under RGGVY in Darhal

policy, a road map envisaging addition of around 9000 MWs during the 12th and 13th Plan has been drawn up to increase the generation capacity. He said this comprises 14 projects in State sector with capacity of 6250 MW(including 3CVPPPL projects of 2220 MWs ), five projects in Central sector of 1679 MWs capacity and 38 IPP projects of 1226

Khan News Agency Ganderbal Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk TheChowk Minister said that 200 Sikendar News Agency Lal habitations would be provided Raina News Agency Gund Kangan electricity in Darhal Constituency Rashid News Agency Dalgate under RGGVY, adding that the Hilal News Agency Budgam power works in 178 habitations in Chadoora the constituency have been Bhat News Agency completed and the augmentation Zargar News Agency Kunzar of one receiving station from 3.15 Bashir News Agency Sumbal MVA to 6.3 MVA has been comSaleem News Agency pletedPattan in the area. He said a power tariff of Reyaz News Agency Pampore Rs. 14.19 crore have been realized Javaid News Agency Qazigund against power expenditure of Rs. G.M News Agency Sopore 36.68 crore in the Darhal constituSultan News Agency encyHandwara during last fiscal and departSheikh News Agency mentIslamabad has noticed 57.40% transThree Way News mission Agencyand Traldistribution losses in the area. Badru News Agency Bijbehara The Minister said that Malik News Agency StateArwani Level Standing Committee Shaheen News Agency Kargil has recommended all districts of

MW capacity.

the State to the Center for approval and sanctioned of RGGVY-II for upgradation of power infrastructure. Dr. Shafi Ahmed Wani raised supplementary and demanded upgradation of power infrastructure in Beerwa under RGGVY.

CORRIGENDUM The table e-tender issued endorsement No. DG-YSS/Acctts/327(B)- 11/4186-94 dated 06-022014 reproduced at “B” is modified to the extent as indicated at “A”. Table “A” read as: a

Date and time of down loading e- tender docu- The e- tender documents can be down loaded over htto://jk tenders.qov.in from ments 07/02/2014 1.00 PM upto 25/02/2014, 3 PM

Clarification start date

10/02/2014; 10 AM

Clarification end date

24/02/2014; 3 PM

e- tender submission start date and time with 13/02/2014; 10 AM scanned copy of EMD etc. (Start date of depositinq of Samples also)

E- tender submission, end date and time (End date of 26/02/2014; 4 PM depositinq of samples also).

Selection of samples start date.

25/02/2014; 10.30 AM

Selection of samples end date.

28/02/2014; 4 PM

On line e- tender openinq date and time

28/02/2014; 12:30 PM

Venue of openinq e-tender offers

Directorate-of Youth Services and Sports, M.A. Stadium, Jammu

Cost of tender documents

Rs 500 ( Rupees Five hundred only) in the shape of Demand Draft payable to Accounts officer Dte. Of YSS, J&K ( Non refundable) creditable to Govt. A/c as cost of Tender Documents. However in respect of SSI units the cost of documents shall be 50% of the above amount.

Amount of Earnest Money Deposit

Rs 25000/- ( Rupees Twenty Five Thousand only) in the shape of DD pledged to Accounts Officer Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, J&K. However Earnest Money Deposit in respect of SSI units shall be Rs. 5000/- or as provided as per norms.

JAMMU FEBRUARY 19: Continuing with the discussion on the Budget today in the Legislative Council, eight members took part including Nurboo Gialchain, Abdul Majeed Bhat, Syed Naeem Akhtar, Vijay Bakaya, Jugal Kishore, Ajatshatru Singh, Naresh Kumar Gupta and B.R.Kundal. Gialchan while commenting on the budget said that the figures reflected in the budget proposal are showing that the economy of the state has improved. Suggesting for increasing the share of districts in allocation of funds, he pleaded for establishment of a Committee to rationalize the employees required in the departments and said need is to set up separate Medical College in Ladakh, besides giving due representation to Ladakh in State Public Service Commission. Abdul Majeed Bhat while taking part in the discussion lauded the efforts made by the Chief Minister and Finance Minister for presenting

Date and time of down loading e- tender docu- The e- tender documents can be down loaded over htto://jk tenders.qov.in from ments 07/02/2014 1.00 PM upto 13/02/2014, 3 PM

Clarification start date

10/02/2014; 10 AM

Clarification end date

12/02/2014; 3 PM

e- tender submission start date and time with 13/02/2014; 10 AM scanned copy of EMD etc. (Start date of depositinq of Samples also)

E- tender submission, end date and time (End date of 24/02/2014; 4 PM depositinq of samples also).

Selection of samples start date.

25/02/2014; 10.30 AM

Selection of samples end date.

26/02/2014; 4 PM

On line e- tender openinq date and time

27/02/2014; 12:30 PM

Venue of openinq e-tender offers

Directorate-of Youth Services and Sports, M.A. Stadium, Jammu

Cost of tender documents

Amount of Earnest Money Deposit

Further the relevant clauses of terms and conditions shall accordingly deemed to have been modified accordingly i.e. selection of samples shall be from 25 to 28 of february upto 11 AM and downloading of offers on 28 of February 2014 or any otehr convenient date. Sd/ Account Officer Dir. Yout5h Services and Sports DIPK : 13811 J&K Government

Name of work

Aries

Taurus April 20-May 20

Rs. 8.90 lakh in these villages. Replying to a question of Syed Basharat Ahmed Bukhari raised by Peerzada Mansoor Hussain in the house, the Minister said that

another Ningli-Amargarh project for Rs. 56.71 crore has been formulated recently and is under active consideration of State and Central Governments for implementation.

Principal Accountant General, J&K calls on Governor

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 19: Mr. Subash Chander Pandey, Principal Accountant General, J&K, called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at Raj Bhavan, today and explained the salient features of the J&K- Audit Report for the Financial Year 2013-14. Mr. Pandey also briefed the Governor about the mechanisms which d been put in place for promoting excellence in the J&K public sector through the functioning of the Audit and Accounting Services, speedy settlement of pension cases and other activities.The Governor discussed with Mr. Pandey the need for the highest priority being devoted towards the maintenance of financial probity and fiscal discipline in the Government departments and complete transparency in personnel management at all levels.

Rs. 44.52 cr Sopore Mini Secretariat project under consideration, land identified: Ajaz JAMMU, FEBRUARY 19: Minister of State for Revenue, Mr. Ajaz Ahmed Khan today informed the House that for construction of Mini Secretariat at Sopore a detailed project report of Rs.44.52 crore has been submitted to Planning and Development Department for approval by District Development Commissioner, Baramulla, adding that further action in the matter would be taken once the DPR is approved and funds are earmarked. Replying to a question by Haji Mohammad Ashraf, the Minister informed that 62 kanals of land have been identified in the estate Baghat(Cooperative Bagh) Sopore for construction of Mini Secretariat and same land would be acquired after DPR is approved.

Tax free and people friendly budget. He said all sectors have been given due consideration while making allocations, adding that the incentives given to farmers are quite encouraging as a major population of the state is associated with the Agriculture sector. Hailing the decision for providing insurance cover to Sarpanches and Panches, Majeed also pleaded for enhancing remuneration of SPOs and Ration Money of Police personnel.Naeem Akhtar while taking part in the discussion pointed out that State has not been able to utilise its own resources especially it’s Hydel Potential. He said Planning Commission has also not released the Special Plan Assistance to the State besides no Plan hike has been approved. He alleged that Government has not been able to generate revenue or create Jobs for unemployed youth whose number over the years has substantially increased. He said E- governance plan has

also not been implemented properly in the State besides State has failed in utilising funds in full in many Centrally Sponsored Schemes. Vijay Bakaya while speaking during the discussion said that the job done by the Finance Minister for bringing financial reforms and improving financial management in the state is highly appreciable. He said performance of the State on account of VAT implementation has also been appreciated in the country. He, however, urged for minimising revenue expenditure which has been increasing over the years. Hailing the decision of creation of new administrative units, Mr.Bakaya pointed out that nothing about the new units is mentioned in the budget proposal. He pleaded for enhancement of cash relief to Kashmiri migrants. Jugal Kishore appreciated tax free budget presented by the Finance Minister besides giving due consideration to employment.

For & on behalf of Governor of Jammu & Kashmir State sealed tenders are invited from eligible A Class registered Electric contractors / Agencies, affixed with Rs.10 Revenue Stamps for the execution of below mentioned jobs. The tenders should be addressed to Executive Engineer, Electric Division-Ist, Basantbagh Srinagar which should reach his office 01.03.2014up to 2.00 pm. S.No

HOROSCOPE March 21-April 19

Office of the Executive Engineer, Electric division-ist, Basantbagh, Srinagar Short Term Tender Notice

Table B instead of:-

20. 02 .2014

Don’t discount your ability to be extremely resourceful if you need to be, Aries. If you don’t have everything you need or all of the required information, take time to think. Who can you ask? What places can you access? Who might know where you can find what you need? Rather than panic because the pieces aren’t all there, instead make a list of contacts and go for it. Trust in yourself.

LC continues discussion on Budget

Government of Jammu and Kashmir Directorate of Youth Services and Sports M. A. Stadium Jammu Subject: e-tender.

Srinagar | thurSday

Quantity

Supply, installation, testing & Com- 1 jobs missioning of job of LT extension from Masjid Sharief to Darasgah at Kani Mohalla, Zewan.

Estimated cost (Rs. in lacs).

Earnest money in tbe shape of COR pledged to Executive Engineer Electric DivisioaIst, Basaatbagb Sriaagar.

0.81

Period of completion 10 Days

NOTE 1) 1. The tender documents can be had from Office of the Executive Engineer, Electric Division-Ist, Basantbagh Srinagar against non refundable cash payment of Rs.300 on or befete 28.02.2014up to 2.00 pm. Alternately the tender document can also be downloaded bn our Website www.ikpdd.gov.in or www.emrekashmir.com. However, while submitting the bid, a non-refundable amount of Rs.3G0.0Q in cash or DD (in favour of Executive Engineer, Electric Division-Ist) towards cost of tender document shall accompany the bid. 2. The rates offered shall be inclusive of all taxes and duties. However service tax as admissible under rules shall be deducted at source. 3. The tender shall be evaluated on Technical Bid followed by Financial Bid. So the tenders should be quoted in two separate envelops, one contains CDR & Technical Specifications compliance report which should be marked as "Technical Bid", the second envelop should contain Financial Bid and should be marked as "Financial Bid". DIPK: 13991 Xen ED Ist Srinagar

Try not to let today’s blues get you down, Taurus. While it’s true that some days can seem to drag on, the busier you are the faster time will pass. Get down to finishing any work still before you and then make plans for tonight. If there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, not only will things seem to speed up but you’ll feel better knowing it’s coming.

Gemini May 21-June 21

Dare to be different, Gemini. It can be so easy to fall into a drill. Sleeping at the same time, eating at the same time, wearing the same style, and going about work the same way day after day. Before you know it, you feel like you’re in a rut. The only way to get away from this is to make a decision to break free by doing something unique. Try a new haircut. Wear colors that are unusual for you. If the need is there, consider a new career. Pursue expansion.

Cancer June 22-July 22

If your lifestyle is considerably different than that of others, resist feeling self-conscience about it today, Cancer. Try to remember that you chose the life you have for specific reasons. Even if you’ve come to a point where you’re considering a change, there’s no need to feel badly, ashamed, or embarrassed about where you are now. Everyone has to make his or her own way. If this conforms to the norm, that’s fine. If it doesn’t, that’s fine, too.

Leo

July 23-August 22 An enhanced feeling of determination could motivate you today, Leo. Finish the things that aren’t complete and make some plans for this evening. Don’t hesitate to take on something that feels complicated or big. Chances are you’ll be able to handle most anything and it will feel great when it’s finished. Enjoy your day by making the most of opportunity.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Feeling the effects of today’s energies, Virgo? Take heart if this is the case, because the end of the tunnel isn’t as far away as it seems. Do your best to take things one step at a time and see about making some plans for a little fun this evening. Get together with friends or take in a movie. Help yourself feel better by staying busy and focused and follow up with some recreation. Before you know it, the aspect will pass and you’ll be back to normal.

Libra

September 23-October 23 Consider making some plans for a vacation or short getaway, Libra. Looking forward to something fun can make even the toughest of days far easier to handle. You’ll be amazed how much you can manage when there’s an end in plain sight. Your entire attitude can lighten. So take the bull by the horns and create an incentive for yourself. Do something special to reward the hard work you do day after day.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 Don’t judge someone if he or she has a different lifestyle than what you consider to be OK, Scorpio. You probably lean toward the traditional, yet not everyone feels this way about relationships, working, or lifestyle. While it may seem impossible to understand and even frighten you, try not to be too harsh on those you deem odd. You’d be better off using that energy to keep your own life on track.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Friends seeking advice or a shoulder to cry on could be plentiful today, Sagittarius. You’re one of best people to give them the support and care they need. Just be sure that you don’t give so much to others that you don’t have anything left for yourself. True friendship is about sharing and the exchange of problems and help. Running yourself down will leave you in a place where you aren’t going to be much help to anyone.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Getting through today shouldn’t pose too big a problem for you, Capricorn. You may feel a huge second wind that can give you the drive and determination to see your chores and projects through. Make some plans for this evening, such as getting together with friends or taking in an event that really intrigues you. Until then, go about your tasks bit by bit. You’ll get things finished before you know it.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

Working within boundaries and restrictions could really get to you today, Aquarius. Yours is an independent spirit and your best achievements are often born of doing things your own way. Yet like it or not, we all have to follow guidelines and rules. Do your best to follow suit and finish what needs to be done. Afterward, you may find more freedom to act independently without consequences. Exercise patience and diligence as needed today.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 Chances are that you’ll feel upbeat and positive today, Pisces. Consider sharing this energy with those around you who are feeling less than content. Your attitude can have a profound effect on friends, partners, spouses, and children. Even neighbors and extended family can pick up on your spirit without you even realizing it. Share your optimism with everyone you can today. If you see someone hurt or angry.

EDITORIAL/ OPINION Unparliamentary happenings in Legislaturesunfortunate

he unparliamentary scenes witnessed for past some time in Lok Sabha,Rajya Sabha and state Assemblies is in no way helping the cause of these high institutions which are expected to be most respected in the society. It has become routine now that even on pity matters the members of legislatures barge in the well of the House, break chairs and audio system and even scuffle with each other. These institutions which are considered to be a guiding force for the whole society are now becoming wrestling rings and all sorts of unparliamentary things including abusive language against each other is the order of the day. One fails to understand as to what message we are giving to our young generation and what examples we are leaving behind for them to follow. What happened in the parliament yesterday is really unfortunate and unbecoming of the parliamentarians who are representing lacs of people. Their actions are shaming the whole nation and they are wasting precious time , money and energy of the country. Billions of rupees are spent on elections after every five years and millions on the expenditure incurred by these law makers which is all hard earned money of the general masses of this country. How unfortunate is the story of their activities which in no way help to mitigate the problems of the people who elect them with a lots of hopes and aspirations. These members should realize that they have not to show their muscle power in the Legislatures and have not to brow beat others by creating unruly scenes and pandemonium. In fact, they should attend to the problems of the people and spent their energy in solving them. It is better if they show patience and exhibit their maturity and use the precious time they spent in Legislatures for the betterment of the whole society which expects them to behave in that way. The pandemonium and unruly scenes do not help in any kind of contribution towards the society. It is not only the opposition but also the ruling class which should try to defuse the situation and show that they are parliamentarians in real sense and they understand their responsibilities and duties. For the last about three years most of the time and state legislatures has been wasted in unparliamentary things which result in adjournments most of the time. It will be in the fitness of the things if public representatives perform their duties in a responsible, serious and mature way.

Daily

Zabarwan Times

Srinagar, Thursday 20 February 2014

Virtual Clusters T he Virtual Clusters concept consists of a dedicated Web portal to be hosted by the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). It provides an opportunity for the following stakeholders to register and join. · MSME’s and their business units. · Academic institutions (engineering colleges, polytechnics, ITI’s as well as MBA colleges and design institutes). · Various experts, consultants and trainers who can provide sector specific help to MSME’s. · Banks and other financial institutions who are interested in providing financing to MSME’s. · Various governmental organizations, NGO’s, and volunteering executives who have a special interest in the MSME sector.

The main stakeholders in this initiative are the small business units. The role of the other stakeholders is to help the business units grow rapidly in the areas of increasing the sales and the profitability. The Virtual Cluster concept is being conceived such that small businesses belonging to different sectors can coexist with their fellow enterprises on a web portal and realize the benefits of focused and targeted networking. Web based Virtual Clusters for different sectors can be created rapidly thereby responding to the needs of the stakeholders quickly. What is the difference between current physical clusters and virtual clusters? The current “physical clusters” scheme requires the MSME units to be physically located in one geographic area. It also requires time and significant resources to build and maintain the physical infrastructure. Virtual Clusters on the other hand remove the need to maintain a physical presence in these regions. Small Businesses/ Enterprises can be located anywhere in India and yet be able to realize all the benefits that units in the physical clusters now realize. What are the Benefits to various stakeholders? Business enterprises · Awareness of various opportunities such as government tenders and export opportunities. · Training in new technologies that will improve their operations and reduce costs. · New product development opportunities.

· Help from students and faculty from nearby academic institutions without having to pay for such help. Such help can be in areas such as quality improvement, cost reduction, new product designs, etc. · Targeted help from consultants and experts specific to particular business sectors. Students Studies have shown that a large number of students are not able to get meaningful jobs after completing their studies since they lack the exposure to solving real life problems. Through the Virtual Clusters web site and other associated activities we are aiming to address this problem by linking various academic institutions to businesses. As a part of their industry internship program students can help implement a number of systems at the business units without these businesses having to employ outside experts to provide such services. Consultants and other practicing professionals Professionals who have expertise in specific business sectors will be able to quickly reach businesses in that sector who are registered through the Virtual Clusters web portal. This will make the process far more efficient for both the parties. Banks and other financial institutions Many banks and other financial institutions offer special funding packages to small businesses. Through the Virtual Clusters initiative they will be able to offer sector specific funding packages rather than a standard offering in which the small businesses have to fit in. This will enable banks to specialize in sectoral funding and simultaneously spread their risks across a larger number of companies in a given sector. Businesses will benefit by saving time and having ready access to better suited funding options. Central and State Government organizations A number of central and state level organizations offer many programs targeted at the small business community. The Virtual Clusters portal will make it easier for policy makers and other implementing agencies to reach these businesses quickly and more efficiently. NGO’s and Volunteer advisors As in case of governmental organizations many regional NGO’s and volunteer advisors can reach MSMEs that are registered in the Virtual Clusters web site more effectively. Pilot Project Virtual Clusters model is being tested through a pilot that will first focus on businesses involved

in the Food Processing Industry. This includes companies that make food products and those that make equipment used in food processing. The concept will then be readily and rapidly extended to a number of other sectors. Examples of food products Packaged honey and various honey based products Dry fruits Saffron Spices Various types of nuts: cashews, peanuts, walnuts, etc. Juices Herbs Biscuits and other baked products Etc. Examples of food processing machinery · Pasteurizing machinery · Baking ovens · Spice grinders · Packaging machinery · Juice making machinery etc. After getting some experience with the pilot project for a few months the Virtual Clusters web site will be opened up to a number of other sectors. How will the Virtual Clusters website and the initiative be administered? NIESBUD, a training arm of MSME Ministry will administer the Virtual Clusters web site and will pro actively perform the following activities: · Work with bankers and various stakeholders within the government in the best interest of the MSME’s. · Survey the needs of the Food processing sector and organizing the availability of required technologies and · facilitating specialized training in the application of such technologies. · Work with the purchasing arms of the various government departments and PSU’s to assess their purchase requirements that have been reserved for purchasing from the MSME’s. · Work with the academic institutions to review their experiences and help fine tune the process as needed. · Monitor web site usage and suggest any changes that might be necessary to enhance overall user experience. · Anything else that needs to be done to make the initiative a strong success at an early date. · Organize a package of software applications that will be of benefit to MSME’s. · Train academic institutions and MSME’s in the use of such software applications.

Regulator for the Housing Sector

he Cabinet recently approved the real estate regulation and development bill which provides for putting in place a regulator for the housing sector in the country with a view to bringing transparency to the sector. The regulator will oversee the functioning of the sector which unfortunately has been most opaque in its dealings. The bill, aimed at regulating the sector which is beset with multiple problems, is therefore a welcome step which has been long overdue. The bill provides that the builder whose project is coming up on an area of 1000 Sq. metres or more will have to register with the regulator. The Agents, commonly known as property dealers, too will have to register themselves with the regulator and make public all the relevant information. The prospective house owners in the country have been facing lots of problems in the process of acquiring a dwelling unit. They are never told the status of the project advertised with regard to the mandatory clearances from different agencies. Projects are launched without obtaining such clearances leading to litigations and harassment for the consumer. There are also cost overruns and often inordinate delays in handing over the dwelling units to the consumers. Be-

sides, there are hidden costs which the consumer comes to know only at the time of taking over the possession. Not the least important is the confusion sought to be created by the builders with regard to the unit area. Instead of mentioning the carpet area--the actual area of a dwelling unit which one uses- the builders sell the vague super area which includes all the common areas. To deal with such problems the bill provides for a number of measures. For instance no project can be launched, in fact even publicized, before all the necessary clearances for the project are obtained. Any violation of this provision through a misleading advertisement will lead to imposition of a penalty on the builder and if the offence is repeated for the second time, a jail term up to 3 years. The builder will have to put on his website all the relevant details about this. Similarly, in case of inordinate delay in handing over the possession as per the agreement, the builder will have to make full refund of the money to the consumer along with interest. The bill makes it mandatory for the builder to sell the unit according to the carpet area and not the super area as is being done now. To prevent builders from diverting funds collected for one project to other projects the bill provides

that 70 percent of the funds raised for a particular project have to be put in a different account and used for the construction of that project only. All this, indeed is going to bring transparency, accountability and professionalism to the sector which will enhance its credibility and bring some relief to the house buyers. But the question is whether this will be enough to deal with the massive housing problem the country is facing? Two things need to be given immediate attention if the bill has to serve the desired purpose. First, since the clearances have to be given by various government agencies, it is important that they too are brought under its purview. Second, the regulator is proposed to be only for the housing sector. The commercial sector has been left out for the time being. One hopes that this sector too will be brought under the purview of the bill sooner than later. Alongside, steps need to be taken to reform the sector to meet the massive housing demand in the county. The land use provisions and Floor Space Index (FSI), need to be given a fresh look. Better land use is the need of the hour in view of the huge shortfall in the housing field. Single window system needs to be given a push to avoid delays.

Growing urbanization, a growing middle class and migratory population is putting additional burden on the demand for housing in the country. It is therefore imperative that in addition to regulating the sector the supply side is also strengthened. Housing is one sector which gives a push to many other sectors like steel and iron, cement etc. It also generates employment at various levels. It thus plays a major role in the economic development, particularly at a time when the economy is facing a slowdown. The bill envisages a well structured grievance disposal system. There will be an Appellate Tribunal to adjudicate disputes which will be headed by a sitting or a retired judge. There will also be a National Advisory Council headed by the Housing minister to advise the regulator on crucial matters. That should take care of adopting a fair approach with regard to all stakeholders involved in the sector. Since land and property is a state subject, cooperation from the state governments is of utmost importance to make the bill a success. One hopes this cooperation will be forthcoming in the desired measure, as it is as much in the interests of the states to regulate the housing sector as it is for the Central government.

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