‘Darbar Move’, Wastage of money: Omar

 Terms the practice as “escapist.”

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS) : With the traditional darbar move just a week away, Chief Minster Omar Abdullah has triggered a fresh debate on the necessity of the move practices, saying such a tradition was the ‘wastage of money’. However he was quick to add that there wasn’t any other alternative available also.” Do I think the 'Durbar move' (shifting of capital) is a waste of money? Yes I do. Is there an alternative? I haven't seen a viable alternative suggested," Omar tweeted on Thursday in a response to one of his followers. Jammu and Kashmir is the only state in India which shifts its capital twice a year.  The government and the top bureaucracy functions in Srinagar and Jammu for six months each. The state government spends crores of rupees on travel allowances for the thousands of employees and transportation of lakhs of files between the twin capitals.  According to VOS, Chief Minster termed the practice as “escapist.” I agree. We run away when people need us most and (they) face the most difficulty. The darbar move is escapist," he said.The remarks from the chief Minster have come just over a week before the offices are scheduled to shift from Jammu to Srinagar. As per official notification Move office will close in Jammu on April 28 and reopen in Srinagar on May 8.

Omar Abdullah may have remarked on the issue for the first time, but the issue has already converted into a political controversy over so many years with parties and activists from both the Provinces of Kashmir and Jammu demanding the permanent stay of the Power seat in their respective provinces. Government has over few years established winter and summer secretariats also which enables few ministers to remain available on turn basis in the Srinagar and Jammu secretariats during winter and Summer respectively.The practice of Darbar move in Jammu and Kashmir was started by the Dogra rulers of the state to escape the extreme weather conditions in  Srinagar during winters and Jammu during summers.

PDP has played historical role in

Restoring peace in sub-continent: Mufti

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS):  Patron of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that his party has played historical role in restoring peace in the India Sub-Continent because the agenda of peace and reconciliation, which was pioneered and implemented by PDP, has yielded encouraging results. He, however, said that PDP would continue to pursue its visionary agenda to change destiny of the people and also to make Jammu and Kashmir an Island of peace.

Addressing one convention of party workers of district Reasi here today, Mr Sayeed, while pointing towards some new initiatives taken by India and Pakistan to further improve their relations, said that foundation to take such bold initiatives for strengthening relations between two neighbouring countries were laid only during PDP led regime after 2002. “Although we had only 16 members in our kitty but it was result of our convictions that we convinced successive regimes at Delhi to take some bold decisions to restore peace in this region especially to improve relations with Pakistan”, he said and recalled the historic announcement made by then Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee from Srinagar in which he had extended hand of friendship towards Pakistan. “Tension was high on borders at that time but it was all due to the result of PDP’s pro-peace agenda that the then Prime Minister had made such historic announcement from Srinagar”, he recalled.

Mr Sayeed that PDP had scripted a new chapter of peace and development in the State. He said that July 28, 1999 was landmark in the political history of Jammu and Kashmir because PDP was formed on that very day and this party has revived peoples’ faith in the democratic institutions. It was PDP that had restored people faith democracy, he said and especially mentioned victory of party candidate Qazi Mohammed Afzal from Ganderbal assembly segment, which was once considered as bastion of NC, in the year 2002. “Unlike other parts of the country, people of Jammu and Kashmir, for decades together, were not allowed to get the taste of democracy because NC had never allowed democracy to flourished here”, he said and added that it was  PDP that has challenged the hegemony of NC and allowed the democracy to flourish here.

“The way people of the state has been supporting our party, it has become clear that there is no alternative of PDP in the state and this party is going to change destiny of the people by implementing its progressive and visionary agenda”, he said, adding, change is imminent in Jammu and Kashmir because people have faith on the policies and programmes of PDP.

Responding to the demands of locals, former Chief Minister assured the people that his party would take up the demands of former Baridaries with Governor N N Vohra. He supported the demand of the local people that kin of Baridaries should be given jobs in Mata Vaishno Devi University and in Shrine Board. He also demanded that locals be given priority in jobs in the University.

He assured the people that former Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Beig would take up the issue of providing employment to the locals including kin of ex-Baridaries in the University and Shrine Board with the Governor.  

Speaking on the occasion, former Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Beig, said that PDP led regime had set an example of equitable and balanced development in Jammu and Kashmir. “Credit goes to the PDP-Congress regime that first time after 1947, in the year 2002 all regions were treated equally in developmental and other activities”, he maintained and added that it was after 2002, serious efforts were made to empower all regions to remove the sense of inequality and discrimination. “Jammu and Ladakh regions were also involved in the decision making process during the regime of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed” he said.

Former Finance Minister Tariq Hamid Karra, while addressing the function, said that one and only achievement of the present NC regime was legalization of corruption. He said that during the last more than three years corruption has crossed all limits. He said that corruption, from top to bottom, has engulfed the government.

Thakur Balbir Singh, Daman Bhasin, Partap Sharma, Bansi Lal Thakur, Rajinder Manhas, Sukhdev Sharma, Master Bansi Lal, Gurdeep Panday, Parveen Akthar, Prem Nath Sharma, Gurjeet Singh, Mohi-ud Din, Mohammad Yasin, Master Mohammed Suhan, Mohammed Israil and others also addressed the meeting. 

                                                                                         

      

Police thwarts Shah’s  Doda visit,

Arrests him at banihal.

Srinagar, April 19(VOS):  Senior Hurriyat  leader and President Democratic party Shabir Ahmad Shah was reportedly arrested on Thursday at Banihal while on his way o Baderwa and Kashtawar. Shah had plans to address public rallies in the twin districts of Jammu province. “Preventing Shabir shah from addressing the rallies gives an impression that Government has no respect for its so called democratic set up.” Party spokesman alleged in a statement to VOS, adding that the whole world knew the fact that the current freedom movement has been underway since 1947 and its ‘disputed’ nature has even been accepted  by the united Nations .Spokesman added that the government should have allowed Shah to campaign against the communal forces. “Shah is against the communal politics and never is opposing any kind of division  on religion or communal basis.” Asserted the spokesman.

G.B Panth Hospital,

Where MCI norms have been shelved for a blue eyed doctor.

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS): Flouting the directions of Medical Council Of India (MCI), authorities in G.B Panth hospital have entrusted two important portfolios to a single blue eyed doctor which has badly affected the medical care of the lone child care hospital in the summer capital. “In a clear violation of MCI norms and directions, we have medical superintendent holding the charge of Head of the department also in the hospital.” A doctor of the G.B Panth hospital told VOS, wishing anonymity, adding that this has badly affected the hospital administration. Meanwhile patients also complained of mismanagement and negligence in the health care in the hospital.” we don’t know whom to approach for help when doctors don’t listen to us.” The parents of a child admitted in the hospital told VOS. He alleged that most of the doctors remain out on their private clinics  for maximum time and the parents were forced to take their children to those clinics for treatment.When contacted by VOS, Commissioner secretary Health ,Tanveer Jehan declined to comment on the mater.

                               

Kashmir is a trilateral issue and must be addressed peacefully under Tripartite Dialogue. ANC

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS):  “People are facing the brunt of the wrong policies pursued by the coalition government, who are pursuing their personal and party goals and have consigned people’s issues to the back burner. This conduct has ruined the socio-economic and political atmosphere in the State.” This was stated by Muzaffar Shah, Senior Vice President  Awami National Conference while addressing the party workers Convention at Sherwani Hall Baramulla, today. He said that the time has come when the people should differentiate between the right leadership and those who deceive the people with their false promises and pursue only one point agenda of furthering their own political and economic prospects. The need of the hour is to rise upto such an occasion and reject such forces to save the state from further mayhem, corruption, loot, nepotism and destruction, He said. Having witnessed the working of the coalition government the people should least expect any welfare or solace from it. Both the parties run at the whims of the Central Government, which weakens them day in and day out. Previously PDP also withdrew its crutches from the then coalition which fell un sung. The present coalition will also fall the same way as the Congress/PDP Government fell. Mr Shah said that the  people, especially the Educated youth have known Late G.M.Shah , the selfless and an able administrator as a Cabinet Minister and Chief Minister who preferred quitting power than to succumb to the wishes of the Central Government. With the same spirit, Late Shah Sahab laid the foundation of Awami National Conference and called on people to strengthen it.  Muzaffar Shah said that Kashmir is a trilateral issue and must be addressed peacefully under Tripartite Dialogue. The tension and war like situation between the two countries will not ease till the Kashmir issue is resolved.

The party convention was also addressed by Provincial President  Latief Khan, Zonal President (North)  Ghulam Ahmad Dar, Distric President Mohammad Yousuf Dar, District President (Pulwama) Sajad Dar,Senior leader Ifthikhar Banday, treasurer Mohammad Sultan Bhat, Zonal President(South)Bashir Ahamd mallick, Provincial Secretary Aftab Ahmad Laway, District President Srinagar, Tauseef Ahmad Shah, who criticized the coalition government for failing in every department of State administration, lack of basic civic facilities, corruption, unavailability of essential commodities, power tariff hike and drug abuse prevalent in the society.

The speakers also dwelt on issues of harassment of youth by the security forces and providing of  insufficient information under RTI and violation of Human Rights and demanded that these issues be addressed by the Government.

NC committed for early return of KPs

Kichloo welcomes decision of Apex Committee on Migrants

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS): Appreciating the efforts of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah led government for mitigating the sufferings of internally displaced people of the state; Jammu and Kashmir National Conference today said that the party was committed for creating a conducive atmosphere for ensuing early return of Kashmiri Pandits to Valley.Reacting to the outcome of Apex Committee on Migrants meeting, held under the chairmanship of chief minister Omar Abdullah, the party spokesperson and Member Legislative Assembly Sajad Ahmed Kichloo Thursday said that the decision of the state government to bring an Ordinance for protection of Hindu Temples and Shrines will go a long way in restoring the trust and confidence of the Kashmiri Pandits, who have suffered tremendous hardships after their migration from Valley.

"Our party has always been feeling the miseries being suffered by Kashmiri Pandits having migrated from the Valley and is devising a strategy to ensure their early return to their homes," he said in a statement, issued here today.  Kichloo said that the brotherhood, communal harmony and peaceful coexistence has been the identity of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference has always propagated and felicitated the efforts to uphold unity.He also welcomed the decision of the Committee to relax the norms under the special package to enable the Kashmiri Pandits to construct their own houses in Valley. The age relaxation to the KP youth under the Prime Minister’s Special Package is also a welcome decision taken at an appropriate time.

Expressing pleasure that the living condition of KPS migrants have improved, he however asserted that even the concrete buildings constructed by the government is not the end of miseries suffered by the migrants. “The NC and its leadership has always project the cause of the migrants and it strongly believe that Valley is incomplete without Kashmiri Pandits”, he said adding that the party has full faith on the visionary qualities of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, under whose leadership the state will be able to create an atmosphere to ensure the return of Pandit brethren to their homes.

Kichloo also complemented the state government for its direction to the concerned authorities to ensure passport clearance to every aspirant, in case he or she is not directly involved in any illegal activity.    

PDP believes in baseless allegations: Shariq

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS):  Maintaining that hidden agenda of PDP is exposed, National Conference (NC) senior leader and Member Parliament North Kashmir Sharief-ud-Din Shariq said that opposition PDP only believes in baseless allegations against National Conference and particularly Sheikh Dynasty.While addressing series of public meeting in Lolab valley, the member parliament said that PDP is not only involved in making baseless allegation against Sheikh Dynasty, but the party is also involved in worst kind of efforts by spreading communal hatred for their petty political gains.

Shariq said that people of the state are wise enough to differentiate between the negative politics of PDP and pro people policies of the National Conference, “The politics of PDP stands exposed and the agenda of National Conference has been endorsed by the people of all the three regions of the state,” he said.The National Conference senior leader also said that existence of PDP is by chance and the intention of forming the party was to erode the identity and sovereignty of the state.Appealing the youths to join National Conference, the member parliament said that their secure future lies only with the National Conference and they should defeat the slogan politics of PDP by joining the NC.Shariq also appealed the state government to pay special attention for the development of rural and far flung areas of the state. He said that people in Lolab valley and its adjoining areas are facing countless problems on development front and it becomes imperative for the government for their immediate redressal.      

On the occasion he gave Rs 60 Lakhs from his parliament development fund for the development of Darpora (Lolab). He also announced to provide on solar energy system to every household of Kulhama village.         

KU observes ‘Iqbal day’ on his 74thdeath anniversary

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS):  To commemorate the Poet of the East Dr Sir Mohammad Iqbal on his 74th death anniversary Iqbal Institute of Culture and Philosophy University of Kashmir organised a one-day seminar here at Gandhi Bhawan  Thursday.In his Presidential address ViceChancellor University of Kashmir Prof Talat Ahmad while paying rich tributes to the legend of Iqbal said “Iqbal is a great source of inspiration for our younger generation His concept of self-realisation opened new horizons of research and exploration for the philosophers and thinkers of modern times and they need to take forward his mission by taking cue from the place where he left.”

 He said that there should be some arrangement of fellowships amongst various universities and institutes all over the world where Iqbal is taught as a subject and where research is done on various themes and facets of Iqbal`s philosophy and poetry.“To provide exposure to our students and researchers there must be some arrangement of fellowships with other universitiesand institutes and similarly students and researchers from other parts of the world should be given an opportunity to pursue fellowships at our institute which would bring new areas and realms of Iqbal`s philosophy and thought to fore through research and educational exchange,” said Prof Talat. Terming Iqbal institute of philosophy and culture as one of the strong pillars of the University of Kashmir Prof Talat while assuring full support to the institute said “ The institute would be shifted to a new building  in the campus very soon and under the 12th five year plan the institute would get new and more faculty which would help in its expansion.”

In his address Former Head of the department of English, University of Kashmir Prof GR Malik said that Iqbalis as relevant today as he was in the past “for he was a poet and philosopher par excellence who transcended the confines of time and space.                   

“We observe Iqbal day not only because he was a poet but because he was an empathizer of the entire mankind and was a harbinger of mutual amity and universal brotherhood. He was not for clash of civilizations but for cooperation between the east and the west, between one society and other,” said Prof GR Malik. In his address Justice (rtd) BashirAhmed Kirmani said “Iqbal is a complete library and an institution in himself ,however,  the challenges which we are facing today is that how we could imbibe Iqbal`s thought and philosophy in our lives and the answer lies in the works of Iqbal itself provided we research and ponder over them so as to find solutions to our problems.”Earlier in her welcome addressDirector Iqbal Institute of Culture and Philosophy Kashmir University Dr TaskeenFazil while presenting a brief journey of the institute from its early days of inception as Iqbal chair to the elevation of a full-fledged Institute of University said “ The institute encourages research work in various areas related to Iqbal and this year we have admitted around 33 scholars who are pursuing their research on Iqbal.”  Deputy Chairman Legislative Council and former Secretary of Cultural Academy MY Taing  also spoke on the theme.

          The inaugural session was followed bya technical session during which several scholars, researchers and academicianspresented their papers on various thoughts and philosophy of Iqbal and his poetry.

Truck carrying FCI ration falls in Chenab.

Driver’s dead body not recovered  even after two days.

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS) : A truck carrying the FCI ration has met an accident on Wednesday morning resulting in the death of its driver Nasrullah Khan of Sheri Baramulla, However  relatives of the deceased alleged that even after the 34 hours of accident, his dead body has not been retrieved from the cabin of the truck that has plunged into river Chenab near Ramban. “34 hours have passed off. No body has even tried to retrieve the dead body at least.” Alleged the relatives while talking to VOS.

SP Kulgam held a interactive meeting with released/surrendered militants

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS):  SP Kulgam Mr. Maqsood-u-Zaman held an interactive meeting with the released militants of Kulgam district.In order to constitute the NGO for rehabilitation of released /surrendered militants as per the rehabilitation policy announced by the Government for rehabilitation of released /surrendered militants, SP Kulgam Mr. Maqsood-u-Zaman held a meeting with the released/surrendered militants of District Kulgam at District Police Lines, Kulgam. The SP  in his address to the released surrendered  gave them the necessary information in the direction of creating an NGO at the District level for their rehabilitation. All the released surrendered militants residing in the District participated in the meeting.

Glowing tribute to martyr S. Hameed: Azam

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS): Azam Inqilabi, patron Jammu Kashmir Mahaz-e-Azadi, while paying glowing tribute to martyr S. Hameed, Peoples’ League leader, who was martyred on April 18, 1998 by Indian armed personnel, said in his statement that Kashmiris identified themselves with martyrs who were real torchbearers of freedom struggle and who ideally epitomized and symbolized the glorious history of resistance.

Myopes of Delhi who are obsessed with their imperialistic mindset and fixation are creating a hurdle in the peaceful settlement of Kashmir issue. What is rationale for arresting the Kashmiri students who want to give went to their feelings and sentiments through internet? In fact, Kashmir police is unnecessary vitiating the political atmosphere of Kashmir.

Delhi rulers should not await the hallucinatory moment when last gun of the Mujahedeen will become silent. Let the imprudent leaders of Delhi Darbar try to understand that Taliban Mujahedeen of Afghanistan are, in fact struggling for the security and sovereignty of Asian nations including Pakistan, Iran, India, China, Russia, Turkmenistan, Tajkistan etc… so it is obligatory on the part of Indian Premier Dr. Manmohan Singh to empathize and identigy himself with Asian nations by adopting a proactive diplomatic stand and stance for early withdrawal of US and NATO forces from Afghanistan.

It is time to avoid temporization and procrastination and seriously knuckle down to the all-important objective of seeking of a peaceful and viable solution of Kashmir issue through tripartite talks.  

Body recovered in Qamarwari  

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS): Qamarwari police fished out a body of Abdul Majid Malik age 10 years son of Ghulam Hassan resident of Seriwarpora Pattan at present Nalbandpora Safakadal, Srinagar from River Jehlum near Cement Bridge Qamarwari, Srinagar, falling under the jurisdiction of police station Parimpora. Parimpora police initiated proceedings under section 174 CrPC in this regard.    

11 Injured in road mishaps  

Srinagar, April 19 (VOS):  Eleven persons including nine tourists were injured in different road accidents across the Kashmir Valley.

                A Quails vehicle bearing registration number JK01E/3896 hit and injured to Gulshana wife of Bashir Ahmad Dar resident of Markundal Hajin Bandipora at Boulevard road near Hotel Heemal, Srinagar, falling under the jurisdiction of police station R. M Bagh. The injured was shifted to SKIMS, Soura,Srinagar, for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard.

               Meanwhile, a Maruti Car bearing registration number Jk05A/7846 hit and injured Mohammad Jaffar Magham son of Mohammad Ibrahim resident of Nooripora, Pattan at Mazhama, Budgam, falling under the jurisdiction of police station Magam. The injured was shifted to Sub district Hospital, Magam for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard.

               A tourist vehicle Maxi-Cab 407 bearing registration number JK02AR/5167 which was carrying tourists from Anantnag to Pahalgam turned turtle near Grid Station, Hutmurah, Anantnag, falling under the jurisdiction of police station Mattan, resulting in injuries to nine tourists. All the injured were shifted to hospital for treatment.      

Government to mull Ordinance for management of Valley Temples: Omar

‘Cash Relief enhancement, 3000 new posts for Kashmir Migrants in offing’

Kashmir Darshan for migrant students

Bhalla lauds Kashmir Muslims for supporting return of migrants

             Jammu, April 19 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah has directed the Revenue Department to prepare a note for Cabinet for promulgation of Ordinance for the protection and management of Temples in Kashmir Valley.

            “You should come up with a note on the subject as early as possible for the clearance of the Cabinet so that the same would be presented to the Governor for promulgation of the Ordinance accordingly”, he told the department adding that the Bill in this regard would be tabled in the next session of the legislature in Srinagar subsequintly.

            Chairing the meeting of Apex Advisory Committee for Kashmiri Migrants here, the Chief Minister also directed for setting in motion the process of creation of additional 3000 posts for Kashmiri migrant students. He stressed on early action in this regard and asked for status of any waiting list of candidates who had appeared for the posts already advertised and filled up.

            The Chief Minister said that the posts fallen vacant due to de-reservation and those left unfilled out of the 3000 vacancies advertised along with any waiting list of applicants with recruitment agency should be ascertained early. “I want complete details in shortest possible time in this regard”, he directed the Revenue Department stressing on early filling up of the vacant posts.

            Omar Abdullah said that the students who were eligible at the time of announcing of the employment package in 2008 but could not avail the opportunity for delay in the implementation of the package till 2010 for attaining overage during this intervening period should not have been ordinarily de-barred for applying for the posts announced. “To provide them relief of age relaxation, the Revenue and Rehabilitation Department should come up with a proposal for clearance by the government”, the Chief Minister directed.

            On enhancement of Cash Relief to the Migrants, the Chief Minister said that he has already taken up this issue with the Union Government. “I have discussed this issue with the Prime Minister, Home Minister and other concerned. I am hopeful that a positive decision will come in this regard”, he said adding that during the Chief Minister’s Conference at New Delhi, he talked about this issue with the Prime Minister at the sidelines of the Conference and underlined its necessity.

            The Chief Minister directed the Revenue and Rehabilitation Department to formulate a proposal for enhancement of financial assistance to migrant family for construction of residential house in the Valley from present Rs. 7.50 lakh to a reasonable amount. “We know that the return of migrants call for a good residential accommodation for them in the Valley as such, those who want to return should get suitable financial assistance to build their houses in Valley”, he said adding that the proposal would be discussed and cleared by the Cabinet and the issue taken up with the Centre Government accordingly.

            Omar Abdullah said that those migrants who have obtained service in the valley and returned back would like to reside in their own houses as such; the financial assistance for purchase or construction of house should be substantial for them. He said that the State Government would vehemently advocate this aspect with the Centre Government at the highest level.

            The Chief Minister said that the security scenario has positively changed to a large extent in the Valley and the sense of security has received considerable fillip during last some years. “The return of about 1500 migrant youth to Valley in connection with employment and their residing and working with majority community has further boosted the confidence”, he said emphasizing the need for its further cementing.

            The Chief Minister directed the Revenue Department to start 'Kashmir Darshan’ tour programme for migrant students adding that the priority in the selection should be given to those who are visiting the Valley for the first time in their life. “This would help them to interact with the students, know about the pluralistic ethos, cultural diversity and heritage of Kashmiriat as also relish the scenic splendour of the Valley”, he said.

            Taking a dig on those who indulge in doing politics even with welfare affairs of migrants, Omar Abdullah said that the Apex Advisory Committee is an apolitical body associated with rehabilitation and welfare of migrants. “We are discussing important issues relating to the overall benefit of the migrants and their futuristic growth and development. Any view presented here is pondered upon and discussed threadbare. I do not see any reason for those who choose to remain away from such important deliberations”, he said adding that government is always open to suggestions, viewpoints and concrete proposals aimed at facilitating rehabilitation, welfare and return of Kashmiri migrants amicably back to Valley.

            The meeting decided that those members who remain absent from two consecutive meetings of the Apex Advisory Committee will cease to be its members.

            Speaking in the meeting, Minister for Revenue and Rehabilitation, Raman Bhalla appreciated Kashmiri Muslim brethren for wholeheartedly welcoming the return of Kashmiri migrants back to the Valley. He said their gesture and help in accommodating and welcoming the migrant employee in the Valley is worth mentioning and praise worthy.

            The Minister explained the measures government has taken for rehabilitation, welfare and return of Kashmiri migrants. He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for taking keen interest in this regard and monitoring the PM’s package for Kashmiri migrants. He also lauded the Union Government for extending liberal help to the State in this direction. He underlined the role of Prime Minister and UPA Chairperson and extended his gratitude to them.

            Raman Bhalla said that various steps are afoot to mitigate the problems of migrants and ensure their proper rehabilitation. He also favoured the enhancement of cash relief to migrants and financial assistance for construction of houses in the Valley.

            Minister of State for Home, Nasir Aslam Wani, Legislator, Vijay Bakaya, Chairperson, Advisory Board for Social Welfare, Khem Lata Wakhloo, Chief Secretary, Madhav Lal, Principal Secretaries Mohammad Iqbal Khandey and B. B. Vyas, Divisional Commissioners, Kashmir and Jammu, Commissioner Secretary Revenue, B. A. Runiyal, Secretary General Administration Department and various senior officers besides Members of Apex Advisory Committee were present in the meeting.

            In a PowerPoint presentation, Commissioner Secretary Revenue, B. A. Runiyal said that out of over 2100 migrant youth selected for employment in various departments 1446 have joined in the Valley. He said that transit accommodation is presently being utilized by these employees at various places.

            He said that those migrants who are registered under relief category will continue to receive relief for two years after their return to Valley. Their school going children will be entitled for a scholarship of Rs. 750 per month. The migrant who wish to return and want to set up income generating units will be entitled for a cash assistance of Rs. 5 lakhs. Of which Rs. 2.50 lakhs will be as subsidy and the rest recoverable in easy instalments.

            The migrants will be entitled to cash assistance for re-cultivation of agriculture and horticulture land up to Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 1.50 lakh respectively. Those migrants who had loan outstanding as on 01.01.1990 shall be entitled for waiver of interest.

            The Chief Minister directed for a proposal to enhance this assistance to a degree possible to facilitate return of migrants.

            The Apex Advisory Committee lauded the seriousness and dynamism of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah for path breaking initiative in the shape of employment package to the Kashmiri migrants for their return back to the Valley. “The earmarking of 6000 posts by the Centre and State Governments in equal shares for the migrant youth and keenness of Omar-led coalition government to ensure enhancement of cash relief and financial assistance for building of houses are initiatives in right direction with meaningful purpose”, the Members maintained.

            They also appreciated the Muslims of the Valley for extending wholehearted welcome to their return to the Valley and providing every support to the migrant employees who have joined service there. They also supported the intention of State government for issuance of Ordinance relating to the management and protection of temples in valley. They also thanked the Omar Abdullah for supporting enhancement of cash relief and other assistances to migrants.

Governor, CM for introducing courses sync with emerging job market requirements

          JAMMU, APRIL 19 – Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, and Mr. Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, today decided that the team of scientists of the Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir, led by Dr. Riaz Ahmad Shah, which achieved a major breakthrough in cloning the world’s first Pashmina Goat, named Noori, shall be honoured and rewarded for their momentous scientific achievement. This team of scientists will be honoured at a function to be held in Srinagar, after the reopening of Civil Secretariat and other move offices in the summer capital of the State. The Governor observed that this achievement could pave way for establishing a Centre of Excellence in University for undertaking similar initiatives in cloning other species of animals, like the Kashmir Hangul.

          The Governor and the Chief Minister were addressing the 22^nd University Council meeting of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Kashmir, at Raj Bhavan, here today.

          The Governor and the Chief Minister, stressed the urgent need for taking all the required measures, including restructuring courses and bringing about required changes in the admission procedures, for filling up all available seats at the under-graduate and postgraduate levels in both the Agricultural Universities of the State. They said that doing so would, besides ensuring optimum utilization of available infrastructure, would also go a long way in enhancing the employability of the youth of the State in the emerging job market.

        Chairing the meeting, the Governor, who is Chancellor of the University, stressed the implementation of a time bound programme for production of quality seeds of different crops, in adequate quantities, for meeting the requirements of the farmers and enhancing the agri-productivity in the State. He said that while doing so a strict monitoring mechanism must be put in place at the block and district levels so that the quality of the seed is of approved standard. He suggested that success stories about seed replacement and consequential increase in productivity should be disseminated by screening documentary films and through write-ups in the print media for enlarging awareness among the farmers about the usefulness of seed replacement and adoption of the best practices in farming. He also stressed the need for providing adequate marketing facilities to the growers of mushroom, strawberry and other crops for securing optimum returns for the produce.  

          While reviewing the status of the establishment of Krishi Vigyan Kendras, the Governor said that wherever land is available these need to be established immediately, alongside completing the process in other cases. He added that Krishi Vigyan Kendras have to function as nerve centres for carrying the latest agri-technology to the farmers.

          The Chief Minister, who is the Pro-Chancellor of the University, said that on the pattern of the SKUAST (Kashmir) and the Kashmir University, the SKUAST (Jammu) and the University of Jammu should work together and identify such degrees and courses like MBA (Agri-Business) to enhance the employability of the youth. He said that, for this purpose, the various Universities functioning in J&K should sign MoUs for securing larger convergence for the benefit of the people of the State.

          The Chief Minister stressed the need of regular monitoring of various projects of the varsity and those which will be developed under the Rs. 100 crore special grant provided to the University.  

Mian Altaf Ahmad, Minister for Forests, stressed the need for opening up of more seed centres for providing quality seed of maize, potato and other crops to the farmers nearer to their doorsteps.  

Mr. Sham Lal Sharma, Minister for Horticulture and Floriculture, stressed for increasing the intake for imparting training to the youth in basic horticulture activities by the Farm Universities.

Aga Syed Ruhulla Mehdi, Minister for Animal and Sheep Husbandry, put forth several suggestions for the rapid growth of these sectors, having vast potential for generation of wealth and employment avenues. 

Dr. Tej Partap, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST, Kashmir, made a comprehensive power point presentation, dwelling on the achievements of the University and the major initiatives under consideration. He gave the to-date status in regard to the setting up of new Krishi Vigyan Kendras in the Kashmir and Ladakh regions.

The meeting took stock of various research projects and other initiatives taken after the last meeting of the SKUAST, besides discussing other agenda items which included a review of the follow-up action in respect of various decisions taken in the last meeting etc.

          The Council also approved the Two-Tier Career Advancement Scheme for Non-Teaching employees of the University.  

          The meeting was attended by Dr. A. R. Trag, Vice Chancellor, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipore, Prof. Ram Badan Singh, President, National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, New Delhi, Mr. M. I. Khandey, Principal Secretary, Finance, Mr. Shaleen Kabra, Commissioner/Secretary, Agriculture Production and Acting Vice Chancellor, SKUAST, Jammu, Mr. Navin Kumar Choudhary, Principal Secretary to the Governor and Prof. Farooq A. Zaki, Registrar, SKUAST, Kashmir.

Farmer’s delegation meets Speaker

JAMMU, APRIL 19:-A deputation of farmers, led by MLA, Ch. Sukhnandan, called on the J&K Legislative Assembly Speaker, Mohammad Akbar Lone and apprised him that due to supply of sub-standard fertilizers of IFFCO brand the farmers have suffered huge losses.

The deputation demanded that compensation be paid to the farmers by the concerned company, who have suffered losses by using the fertilizers of its brand.

The Speaker while taking cognizance forwarded the letter submitted to him by the delegation to the Secretary to Government, Agriculture production department for necessary action in the matter.

UGC team inspects the proposed site for MANUU Campus in Budgam

            BUDGAM, APRIL 19: A team from University Grants Commission (UGC) accompanied by District Development Commissioner, Budgam, Mr. Mohammad Rafi and Tehsildar Budgam today visited the proposed site identified for the Campus of Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) at Patwaw, Budgam. The team during inspection of the site took stock of all aspects related to the establishment of the proposed Campus.

            The District Development Commissioner, Budgam while interacting with the team on spot briefed them about the possibility of envisaging more land if required in addition to the already identified. He said the team after inspection would submit its report to the UGC for further course of action and recommend the proposed expenditure to be incurred on the concerned project.  

Power shut down

                SRINAGAR, APRIL 19: The Power Controller, Kashmir Province (PDD), Bemina, Srinagar in order to carry out urgent required maintenance works in 132/33 KV Grid Station Bemina, power will be remain off in areas fed from these lines on April 22, 2012 from 9 a.m to 5 p.m.

            In another communication of the department that in order to carry out necessary works of under construction 33 KV Lisser Dooru in emanating from 50 MVA Grid Station Lisser, power will be remain off in areas fed from these lines on April 24, 2012 from 9 a.m to 6 p.m.

            Meanwhile, the department further said that in order to carry out stringing of conductor on 132 KV Lassipora Shopian transmission line, power will be remain off in areas fed from these lines on April 21 and 23, 2012 from 10 a.m to 6 p.m.

DDC Anantnag imposes ban on three

private run Nursing Homes

            ANANTNAG, APRIL 19: The District Development Commissioner, Anantnag, Syed Kifayat Hussain Rezvi in a meeting of officers of Health Services, Kashmir imposed ban on the three private Nursing Homes which carried their businesses in Anantnag.

            Syed Kifayat Rezvi ordered all the owners of private nursing homes not to conduct any surgery at their business establishments without seeking prior permission from the district administration including Chief Medical Officer, Anantnag to avoid any eventuality.

            Among others the senior officers of district administration including Chief Medical Officer, Anantnag, Dr. Gulzar Ahmad and Medical Superintendent of Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Anantnag and the District Information Officer, Anantnag also attend the meeting.

Agriculture mainstay of State’s economy: Omar

‘Emphasizes on increasing production, productivity’

Kissan Board congrats SKUAST for historic breakthrough in sheep cloning

             Jammu, April 19 – Describing agriculture and allied activities mainstay of State’s economy, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Thursday called for a holistic approach to ensure integrated development of agriculture and welfare of the large population associated with it.

            Chairing the 2^nd meeting of Kissan Advisory Board here, the Chief Minister said that the very reason for establishment of Kissan Board in the State was to ensure placement of an effective and meaningful agriculture policy in the State involving the farmers in its formulation.

            The Chief Minister said that the suggestions and expert opinion of the Members of the Board based on practical experience in the field in different climatic zones and areas need to be factored in the policy planning of the growth and development of agriculture and allied sectors in the State.

            Omar Abdullah said that during the last three years his government has focused on this sector and different initiatives were taken to give considerable boost to farm production. He said the impact of these initiatives is visible on ground and State has shown gradual increase in the production of food grains, milk, mutton and poultry. “We have also to harness the potential of rearing eggs laying poultry birds to make the State self sufficient in egg production”, he added and said that initiation of MSME concept in the agriculture and allied sectors would at one hand provide employment to the people and on the other boost up the agriculture production in the State.

            Emphasizing the need for checking the agriculture land for non-agricultural purposes, the Chief Minister stressed on increasing per hectare production and productivity. “We have already limited agriculture land available and there is tremendous pressure on it due to constructions. The expansion in population has further added the stress”, he said and underlined the need for focused attention in reducing this pressure and increasing the farm production by raising the productivity of the agriculture land.

            The Chief Minister directed the Agriculture Department for construction of Kissan Bhawan in Srinagar on the same pattern as is being built in Jammu. The demand for the same was voiced by Members repeatedly during meetings and on other occasions.

            Omar Abdullah asked for developing required infrastructure like controlled atmospheric storages at various places in the State to preserve the horticulture and agriculture produce besides milk products for better marketing. He also asked for working out plans for establishing milk collection centres and chilling units to help the cattle breeders to sell their produce smoothly. He also underlined the need for encouraging cultivation of vegetables, cash crops and flowers in green houses to ensure their production throughout the year.

            Omar Abdullah said that the Jammu and Kashmir is an agriculture State and its economy is greatly dependent on the growth and development of this and allied sectors. “We have two other sectors of tourism and power generation that can give fillip to our economic health and welfare of the State”, he said asking for greater focus on these sectors to provide strong edifice to the State’s prosperity and economic development.

            The Chief Minister informed the Board about the historic breakthrough achieved by the scientists of SKUAST in Sheep Cloning extending his congrats to the Agriculture University and the Board in one voice also extended their congratulations to SKUAST.

            The meeting was attended by Minister for Rural Development, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Minister for Horticulture, Sham Lal Sharma, Minister for Revenue, Raman Bhalla, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Aga Syed Ruhulla, Advisors to the Chief Minsiter, Mubarak Gul and Devender Singh Rana, Vice Chairman, Kissan Advisory Board, Rachpal Singh, Legislators, Mohammad Sharief Niaz and Jahangir Mir, Chief Secretary, Madhav Lal, Principal Secretaries, Mohammad Iqbal Khandey and B. B. Vyas, Divisional Commissioners from Kashmir and Jammu, Administrative Secretaries and Heads of the Departments besides Members of the Board.

            Vice Chairman of the Board, Rachpal Singh presented brief about the functioning of the Kissan Board and highlighted its various achievements registered since its inception. He also talked about the futuristic plan of the Board aimed at comprehensive development of agriculture and allied sectors along with welfare of the farmers and others associated with these sectors.

            In a PowerPoint presentation, Secretary of Kissan Board, G. N. Mir explained agenda points and reported the action taken on the decisions made in last meeting of the Board.

            In a four hour long marathon meeting the Chief Minister heard the views of Board Members who spoke elaborately on different issues relating to the development and growth of agriculture and allied sectors in the State. Some of the Members shared their experience and success stories they have achieved in the field of agriculture, horticulture, animal and sheep husbandry and other related activities.

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Post Office makes special arrangements for PassportDelivery

Srinagar , April 19, 2012.
In association with the Regional Passport Office, the Department of
Posts is making delivery of passports through Speed Post services
across India.  In Kashmir, Department of Posts is making special
arrangements for faster delivery of passports.  In connection with the
‘Haj pilgrimage’ Passport Office is being sending a large number of
Passports through Speed Post, as it is to be delivered in a time-bound
manner.   Shri John Samuel, Chief PMG announced that Srinagar GPO will
be delivering these consignments on all days including Sundays.
Special Postmen and Speed Post vehicle are deployed to deliver the
articles containing passports.  Customers can also get the passports
at Srinagar GPO on Sundays and other days after providing the
necessary proof of identity.

Chief Postmaster General, Shri John Samuel said that more than 10,000
passports have been delivered in the last 3 days.  In order to ensure
that the customers get the passport in time before Haj Pilgrimage,
Speed Post delivery will be made on Sundays also.  He said ‘our
objective is to deliver the passports on the same day of receipt from
the Passport Office to the customers through Speed Post delivery.”
Customers can also get in touch with Sr. Postmaster, Srinagar GPO on
telephone N0. 2452464, Mobile No. 9419036293 for getting the delivery
of passports.
CPMG announced that recently, Department of Posts has introduced Same
day delivery of Speed Post services within Srinagar town.  Under the
service ‘Speed Post consignments booked only upto 1 pm at Srinagar GPO
will be delivered on the same day within Srinagar city.  This provides
major convenience to the customers. [PIB] 

        Oil sanctions on Iran will rock global economy: Iran minister

Iranian Oil Minister Rostam Qasemi says if the Western sanctions against the Islamic Republic’s oil sector are not lifted, world energy markets will face “serious challenges.”

“The mere announcement of the sanctions against Iran’s oil industry has led to an 18-percent hike in the oil prices in the global markets,” Qasemi said on Thursday. 

The senior Iranian oil official said despite the sanctions, the country has inked “new contracts with new customers.” 

“Iran has no problem in exporting its oil,” he added. 

Last month, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned that if Iranian oil supplies are disrupted, crude prices may spike by up to 30 percent, sending shockwaves through the global economy.

"Clearly it would be a shock to economies if there was a major shortage of exports of oil out of Iran [and] it would certainly drive up prices," IMF Director Christine Lagarde said on March 20. 

Tehran decided to cut crude exports to certain European countries after EU foreign ministers agreed on January 23 to ban oil imports from Iran and freeze the assets of the country’s Central Bank across the EU. 

Iran has already cut oil exports to France and Britain as part of its countersanctions. 

Last month, crude prices reached a peak after Tehran’s decision to adopt the counter-sanction measures, pushing gasoline prices in the US and the UK to record highs.