NC reacts to Harsh Dev’s Press statement

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS): Rattan Lal Gupta Provincial President J&K National Conference Jammu province while reacting sharply to the press release issued by J&K Panthers Party through Harsh Dev Singh on the Ramnagar rally and against Shri Devender Singh Rana the Political Advisor to the Chief Minister said that the press statement issued by Harsh Dev Singh is  a piece of lies and a reflection of his frustration on seeing the success of the National Conference’s rally at Ramnagar.

Gupta said Harsh is shocked that in his so called bastion the National Conference leaders Shri Surjeet Singh Slathia and Shri Devender Singh Rana have addressed a huge rally and got overwhelming support and response of the people of area which has unnerved the Panthers party cadre in Ramnagar and now they are hiding behind lame excuses to cover up their own failures.

Gupta said the criminal - politician nexus in Ramnagar has to be broken and the J&K National Conference will rise to the occasion and ensure that the people of the area who have been traumatised by the politics of Panthers get their due justice and the welfare schemes of the coalition government reaches to the needy and down trodden without any personal or political bias.

Zaffar Condoles over PaK Tragedy

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS): Salvation Movement has extended thier profound condolences to the families of the Bhoja Air passengers in Pakistan and sympathy with the Siachan soldiers of Pakistan.Our heart and prayers are with the people of Pakistan in this time of  grief, he statement said. In a satement, the JKSM spokesman in a statement said that the party  expressing grief at the plane crash that took place near Islamabad  prayed for the souls of the departed. May Allah give them strength to cope. JKSM expressing its condolences for the Pakistani soldiers and  civilians of avalanche still missing on the Siachen glacier has expressed sympathies to the families of brave Pakistan soldiers, adding it is a profound tragedy
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Zanskar Road is reopen for Vehicular traffic

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS): After a long gap of about three months the Kargil Zanskar Road was reopened for Vehicular traffic today. On this occasion a function was organized at Penzila Pass Kargil.The Executive Councilors LAHDC Kargil Haji Gh Amir & Punchok Tashi today appreciated the effort of Mechanical, Division Kargil particularly the Dozer operator for clearing snow from Kargil Zanskar (234 KM) long road within a month. With the last heaps of snow clearance from 4400 mtrs high Penzila pass the Mechanical division today declared the road open through for vehicular traffic and accordingly from both side, light vehicles passed and reached Padum as well as Kargil.

           

It is pretension to mention that the road got blocked in the 2^nd week of January i.e. for 3 month which is the shortest period, otherwise Zanskar remain cutoff at least for 6 month every year from rest of the world. Executive councilor Haji Ghulam Amir, Executive councilor Punchok Tashi and Nominated Councilor Zanskar Tsering Angdoos together rewarded Rs 25000 as cash award to the dozer operator and their team working from Kargil side as they cleared their jurisdiction within the targeted period besides clearing 5 Km from the jurisdiction of Zanskar side too within the shortest possible time.It is for the First time that Kargil Zanskar Road has been opened earlier than Kargil Srinagar Road which will be declared open officially later this month.

Problem with legal system in JK: AI team

‘Building On Earlier Work By Amnesty On AFSPA, PSA’  

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS): Observing that legal process is ‘very slow’ in Jammu and Kashmir, Amnesty International Saturday said that there is a problem with the legal system and how it is working in the troubled state.In an exclusive interview with VOS Amnesty International team comprising Saptarshi Mandal and Sahana Basavapatna also reiterated call by the global human rights watchdog about the abrogation of Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and Public Safety Act (PSA) in the state. “In our interactions with a cross section of people, one thing we found constantly was that the legal process where people really took up the legal process and went to courts, is very slow,” they said. In many cases, they said, lodging FIR has taken a lot of time. “Investigations have not been completed despite cases have been filed 10 years back or much earlier,” they said, adding, “All we can say is that there is a problem with the legal system and how it is working. It certainly has taken a lot of time.” The team is on a 12-day visit to Valley to take first hand account of the latest developments in respect of human rights situation in the state with special ‘focus’ on Public Safety Act and AFSPA.

“Our idea to come here was to build on the work that Amnesty International had already done in 2010 and then when it released the report in 2011 on ‘lawless law’. Our focus was on the PSA and the amendments to the act and the implications that it would have in the state, whether they actually make any difference or whether they were fair.”

The amnesty team said that they looked at the contentious AFSPA but refused to divulge anything further regarding it. “There are no conclusions that we can share with anybody as yet but there will certainly be an outcome. It will come in due course of time when research paper is complete.” Asked about the amnesty international’s call for abrogation of PSA and AFSPA, the members said, “We stand by what Amnesty International had said about the abrogation of PSA and AFSPA.” 

Regarding their engagements in the valley during last ten days, they amnesty members said, “We met a cross section of people, mostly families, lawyers and human rights groups. We met only IG  Kashmir and we haven’t met anyone else in administration.”

The members refused to comment on the issue of mass graves in the state. “We have not been able to talk to lot of people on mass graves but we do have the report and are yet to go through the information. But we don’t want to comment on it.”

Investigative wing of the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), in its report had said as many as 2156 bodies buried in unmarked graves at 38 sites since militancy began in 1990. (VOS)

CM to hold meeting with Congress on Municipal Poll dates.

 Civil Society and Tourism industry oppose Holding polls in May.

“We don’t have objection if govt. wants a delay.” Congress

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS) With mainstream parties and civil society pitching for the delay in municipal polls till October, Chief Minster is contemplating to hold a threadbare discussion with his alliance partner Congress and Opposition Peoples democratic party before announcing the dates for the commencement of Polls. “ Chief Minster will hold an important meeting in a few days time after which the dates for the polls will be announced.” Deputy Chief Minster Tara Chand told VOS, adding that Chief Electoral Officer will also be present in the meeting. Sources however added that Government was also trying to bring Opposition parties including PDP  on board before taking the final decision. Government had earlier hinted of conducting the polls in April and may, however with tourist season already having began on a big note, such plans seem now unlikely to turn practical. Different mainstream political parties and Civil Society organizations including people associated with Tourism industry  have reservations on conducting the polls amidst tourist season, fearing such move could stall the tourist inflow. “ We don’t have any objection if the polls are delayed for sake of a good tourist season.” Senior Vice President of State Congress and chief Spokesman Advocate Muzaffer Parray told VOS, adding that the only aim of congress was to strengthen the democratic institutions of the state.  Prominent civil society activists and former president of commerce and industries Shakeel Qalander told VOS that municipal polls in April or may were bound to have a negative impact on  Tourism Industry in the valley. “Holding elections in may could have disastrous impact on Tourism as there is every possibility of these polls creating law and order problem.” Qalander told VOS. House boat owners association and other tourism related associations have also strongly opposed the idea of conducting the polls in May.  “Summer agitations have already affected the tourism industry in the valley and now if these polls are held in tourist season; it will definitely kill every opportunity to see a revival of tourism industry in the valley.” Mohammad Azeem Taman, President House Boat Owners association told VOS.

Hzib Comdr involved in Bjibhera blast arrested: Police

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS) : Police on Saturday claimed to have arrested a top commander of Hizbul Mujahideen who it said was involved in Bijbhera blast which claimed one life and left at-least 21 persons last month. Police achieved a major breakthrough against militancy by arresting Divisional Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen,” IGP Kashmir Shiv Murari Sahai told a Press Conference in Pulwama.

“Late last evening, specific information about movement of militants was received by police in Litter area. At 2000 hours, a naka was established on Main Road at Ladermad,” he said, adding, “At about 2030 hours, Alto Car (JK03A-3804) which was coming from village Kulpora was intercepted and the passengers inside the vehicle were asked to come down.”The driver of the vehicle, Sajad Ahmed Bhat son of Abdul Rashid of Ladermad came down while as the other one made an attempt to escape from the site, IGP said.  “The Naka Party made a courageous effort and nabbed him on the road.”

The arrested turned out to be Latif Ahmed Dar alias Massod Saini, Divisional Commander of HM , son of Ghulam Hassan Dar of Panjgam Pulwama. Saini, he said, was active Pulmama and Awantipora since January 2008. “He is involved in many cases of militancy especially in recent IED Blast, which took place at Bijbehara on 22^nd of March.” In this regard, a Case FIR No. 79/2012 U/S 420, 120 B, 307, 305 RPC, 3 PSS Act stands registered in police station Bijbehara. “He is involved in the killing of a released militant, Showkat Ahmed Rather son of Mohammad Abdullah of Gravgund as well as threatening to Panchs and Sarpanchs of the area.” During questioning, Sahai claimed that confessed about plans of IED blasts. “On his instance, more than 100 Kgs of RDX and detonators were recovered at village Gulzarpora Awantipora.” Pertinently, a youth identified as Muhammad Abbas was killed in the IED explosion while 21 other were injured. Immediately after the blast, police said the slain youth had no militancy links. Later it claimed that following investigations the slain was allegedly in touch with Lashker-e-Toiba (LeT) militants. A civil engineer has been already arrested by the police in connection with the blast. (VOS) 

Civil society in Pakistan wanted friendly

Relations with India: Soz

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS) Prof. Saifuddin Soz President J&K Pradesh Congress Committee has said that the remote and far-flung areas like Koteranka and Budhal should get special attention of the government in the matter of overall development. He said that such backward areas should be identified which lacked behind in various spheres of developmental and other activities of life should be identified and given more attention by the government. While advising ministers of his party to increase the frequency of their visits to such areas, listen to the grievances of people and address their problems. Addressing mammoth gathering at Koteranka and Budhal in district Rajouri, Prof. Soz said that the strengthening and empowerment of the basic democratic institutions of Panchayati Raj is necessary for equitable development all parts of the state, especially percolating down to the grass root level. He said that Congress party is committed for fully empowerment of Panchayati Raj System in the pattern of 73^rd and 74^th amendment of the constitution in order to make them fully vibrant institutions of democracy for the service of people so that the elected representatives have the adequate powers with regard to development and other needs to streamline the system of governance for effective delivery of welfare schemes to the people at the grass root level.

He (Soz) appreciated the sense of brotherhood and secularism of the people of this area who largely present in the rally show their faith on the policies and programmes of Congress party and its leadership. He said militancy has left many tearful memories but could not disturb the religious brotherhood of worst affected areas in militancy. He said that the dialogue is the only solution to all sorts of problems in democratic setup and futility of gun has been realized by one and all after lot of destruction and loss of precious lives. The India and Pakistan have to live together in the atmosphere of peace, friendship and cooperation. Pakistan has also realized after suffering a great loss because of sheltering to terrorist activities on its soil and we look forward for better relations for the people of two nations.  Prof. Soz said that the civil society in Pakistan wanted friendly relations with India and strengthening of CBMs to further normalize relations and peace in the region. He was referring to the recent visit of Pakistan President and talks with the Prime Minister.  During his recent visit to Pakistan as leader of a good will delegation, Prof. Soz said that the civil society in Pakistan was overwhelmingly in favour of more CBMs between two countries. They strongly advocated for better relations and cooperation between two neighbours.

Earlier, the rally was addressed by ministers Shri R.S.Chib, Shri Sham Lal Sharma, Shri Raman Bhalla, Member Parliament Shri Madan Lal Sharma, Vice President PCC Thakur Hari Singh, MOS Mr. Shabir Ahmed Khan, MLC Ravinder Sharma-General Secretary & Spokesperson PCC,  MLA Smt. Indu Pawar-President J&K Mahila Congress, President INTUC Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, President NSUI Shri Udhey Bhan Chib, Thakur Puran Singh-Ex-Minister, Iqbal Malik, Rashid Choudhary, Maqsood Choudhary, Babu Ram Sharma, Sain Rashid, Vinod Mahajan, Ravi Singh Salathia, Narinder Gupta, Neeraj Gupta, Sanjay Sawhney, Amit Chib, Anoop Choudhary, Sanjeev Sharma and others.Thakur Puran Singh and Iqbal Malik highlighted the problems of local people, such as creation of new tehsil, compensation for land under various projects, special recruitment of youth in the area in police and para-military forces, degree collage at Koteranka  and promotion of tourism in the area.

Minister for Medical & Technical Education Shri R.S.Chib said that one ITI collage will be opened at Koteranka and a stadium at the cost rupees 10 lack will be constructed in the area. Proposal for both the projects have been sent to centre for approval. Minister for Health Shri Sham Lal Sharma said that the healthcare system in Darhal-Budhal area will be further improved by creating of new posts of specialist doctors in the hospitals of the area. He also said that this area has great potential in floriculture sector and the government will provide all sorts of help to promote floriculture in the area.Minister for Revenue Shri Raman Bhalla said that capable and honest revenue officers will be posted in Darhal and Budhal area so that the compensation for land acquired by governments for various projects and roads will be disbursed to the affected people at the  earliest.

Member Parliament Shri Madan Lal Sharma cautioned the people against the forces who create wedge between the people of various communities on the name of region and religion. He also promised to provide rupees 10 lack from his MP LAD funds for construction of stadium in the area.

Earlier, warm reception was accorded to PCC President Prof. Saifuddin Soz, MP by the Block Congress Committees of Sunderbani & Nowshera led by MLC Ravinder Sharma-General Secretary & Spokesperson PCC, at Sunderbani  amidst raising of slogans in favour of Congress party.  Block Presidents of Sunderbani & Nowshera and all the office bearers of Block were present on the occasion.  

Provide jobs to locals in hydro electric projects: Sartaj

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS) Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) today regretted that despite having huge wealth of natural resources, residents of Chenab Valley have been confronting to get basic amenities. Party observed that it was all due to the results of the wrong policies of successive National Conference regimes that this belt remained underdeveloped and backward.Addressing meetings of party workers at Doda and Thathri, senior PDP leader Sartaj Madni regretted that natural resources of this belt were senselessly exploited, without maintaining the ecological balance, but no benefit has been given inhabitants of Chenab Valley who have first right on these resources. He observed that besides number of other problems, inhabitants of this belt have also been facing displacement due to prevailing ecological imbalance in this area. “Exploitation of natural resources has led to ecological imbalance in the area besides displacement of hundreds of families”, he said and added that hydro electric projects in this belt were executed without taking some prevent steps to maintain the ecological balance.

Pointing towards acute backwardness in the Chenab Valley region, he said it was ironical that while other parts of the country were benefited by the water flowing from it, the region itself was steeped into darkness and further moving towards backwardness and underdevelopment. Speaking on the occasion, PDP general secretary Thakur Balbir Singh, while pointing towards huge potential of generating power in erstwhile Doda district, demanded that locals should be given priority in the new hydro-electric projects to be started in this belt. “Instead of appointing locals on menial petty jobs, the agencies engaged in executing the hydro-electric projects must open training centres here to train the local unemployed youth so as to engage them on technical jobs”, he demanded, adding, “employment opportunities for locals must be created while constructing hydro-electric projects in this belt. He warned that PDP would not remain a mute spectator if locals were ignored in recruitment especially on technical posts.

Senior PDP leader and MLC Sayeed Asgar Ali demanded that families displaced due to construction of hydro electric projects should be properly rehabilitated. He regretted that still a number of displaced families were struggling compensation so there was a need to rehabilitate those families as early as possible. He also emphasized on the need of taking some concerted steps to check degradation of ecology in this belt. He cautioned that if some sincere steps were not taken in time to maintain the ecological balance, situation would be further worsened in the days to come.

During the meetings, PDP workers vociferously highlighted problems being faced by the locals. They especially highlighted the problem of scarcity of ration, poor road network, non availability of power and poor health facilities in this hilly belt. They regretted that killings on the roads have become a routine affair in this belt but no step has been taken so far to avoid reoccurrence of road mishaps. Attaullah Khan, Imtiyaz Mir, Vijay Dogra, Ajay Thakur, Mohammad Hanif Bhat, Ghulam Rasool Beig, Kuldeep Singh, Talib Hussin, Abdul Reham, Abdul Majid, Farooq Lateef and other addressed the meetings

Putting K-issue on backburner a disastrous: NC

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS) Maintaining that keeping Kashmir issue on backburner will cause disastrous consequences, National Conference (NC) senior leader and member Parliament South Kashmir Dr Mehboob Beg has urged political leadership of India and Pakistan to restart the standoff dialogue process for the resolution of Kashmir issue. Addressing a public meeting at Matti Gaurun (Anantnag), the NC member Parliament said that NC has always worked as a bridge between the two countries for starting a dialogue process to resolve outstanding issues. Beg said that this time again when dialogue process has almost closed, the NC leadership will play its role in giving repeated reminders to central government to start the dialogue process. 

He said, “During the recent concluded parliament session, the NC member parliament raised the issue that dialogue process with Pakistan should start. We want that Kashmir issue should get resolved as early as possible as the peace and prosperity lies with the solution of Kashmir issue,” he said.Dr Beg said that the road map provided by Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah is the best possible way to resolve the Kashmir issue, “Once the roadmap would be implemented in true sprit, all the outstanding issues would get resolved, particularly the Kashmir issue,” he said.The NC parliament member said that putting Kashmir issue on backburner will cause disastrous consequences. “When the countries are talking about Kashmir for decades now, the solution must come out, otherwise, the credibility of talks will fail,” he said.The member parliament also said that party has always favored that all the traditional routes with Pakistan must open, “Once the traditional road links are open, it will create a conducive atmosphere of talks. The more road links will also help to business community of both the countries to export and important the commodities,” he said.

The NC senior leader on the occasion stressed upon party workers that they should support the Omar Abdullah led coalition government, he said that various initiatives started by Omar Abdullah for the welfare and betterment of weaker sections should be appreciated and he will continue to deliver in this front when people will support his initiatives.Meanwhile, number of delegations today met with additional general secretary Dr Mustafa Kamal at party headquarters. Dr Kamal today formally attended the office and assured the delegations that their problems would be addressed on priority bases.

 Dr Kamal stressed upon the party workers that they should maintain faith with chief minister Omar Abdullah and he is desperate to mitigate problems of people.

Hurriyat (M) mourn Pak plane tragedy 

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS) :Hurriyat Conference led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Saturday expressed grief over loss of 127 lives in a plane crash in Pakistan on Friday last. Spokesman of amalgam while expressing grief and sorrow over the loss of the precious lives in plane crash in Islamabad has expressed heartfelt condolences with government of Pakistan and its people.

The spokesman also expressed condolences with the family of bereaved families and prayed almightily Allah to rest the deceased in peace. All 127 people on board a private passenger plane—Bhoja Air—crashed near Islamabad in the country's second major air disaster in less than two years. 

Senior amalgam leader and chairman Democratic Front, Shabir Ahmad Shah also expressed his grief over the loss of lives in the plane crash. “Shabir Ahmad Shah while expressing grief over the loss expressed sympathies with people of Pakistan,” a statement said here. (VOS)

 

Amnesty team visits Masrat Alam’s residence.

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS)  The visiting Amnesty international team today visited jailed separatist leader Masrat Alam’s home and had discussions on his detetion with the family members. Sources told VOS that  ttwo member team comprising of Sipta Rishi Mandal and Miss Sahana drove to Masrat’s zaindar Mohalah residence in city on Saturday and enquired about his detention details from the family members. Sources added that the team was informed that during last two decades , Masrat was booked 23 times under Public safety act and despite Court quashing  the orders, masrat was not released on several occasions. The team was alos handed over his (Masrat’s) detention documents also.

Mirwaiz Pays tribute to Alama Iqbal,

Says, Iqbal raised the first voice for Kashmiris.

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS)  : Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farroq has paid glowing tributes to Shar e Mashriq  Dr Alama Iqbal on his 74^th anniversary. Calling Iqbal as the a well wisher of Kashmiris and Muslims, Mirwaiz said that it was Allama who had raised the first voice for Kashmiris. “ Alama Iqbal  had harbored pain of Kashmiris in his heart and was very annoyed with the slavery of Kashmiris .” Mirwaiz said in  a statement to VOS. Mirwaiz maintained that the best way to pay tributes to Alama was to fight against the dictatorship and oppression.

People being supreme power in our

Democratic system: ANC

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS)  JK-ANC vice-president, Muzafar Ahmad Shah has reiterated the poor governance of NC led coalition regime and the former PDP rule and their decreasing popularity in terms of vote bank in his speech at a convention in Budgam after offering prayers at char-e shareef. These political parties have failed to fulfill the promises they made with people, and dragged the people over years on verge of the fake and false promises. Now people have become aware about their rights, good governance and stressed the democratic rights of people to elect the right people who can deliver too. He reminded the attendants the short lived governance of the former JKANC-supreme, G M Shah which is known for the honesty which people can hardly forget. Shah went on to define the attributes of good governance  and laid much emphasis on delivering rather much talking. He appealed the people that being supreme power in our democratic system, they should not give opportunities to one who owed promises and later failed. Instead people should elect the most appropriate candidates and cooperate with JK-ANC. The party in its agenda has welcomed the  honest and kind youth into the party who have the spirit of serving people without means. Youth is the main resource of a country and JK-ANC has pledged to prepare and design the youth with global growing challenges. Through RTI JK-ANC has launched   a movement to unearth many scams of the government. Mohd Latif Khan, district president Budgam JK-ANC, highlighted the historic performance of late G M Shah  and Begum Khalda Shah, president JK-ANC . Iftikar Banday, Rahi Riyaz, Bashir Ahmad Malik and Gh Mohd wathori   also  spoke on the occasion

PDP leaders visit residence of deceased ASI

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS)  A team of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders led by MLA Sangrama and district president Baramulla Basharat Bukhari today visited the residence of ASI Sukhpal Singh at village Chatoosa in Rafiabad area to express condolence with the bereaved family. ASI Sukhpal Singh was killed by some unidentified persons at Darish Kadal area of Srinagar on Friday.  Basharat Bukhari along with local unit of PDP visited residence of the deceased ASI and expressed their heartfelt condolence with the bereaved family. PDP leaders also expressed their solidarity with the bereaved family.  

                        

RTI reveals Multi-crore purchases

Scandals in Dental Colleges.

Srinagar, April 21 (VOS) After weeks of disclosing the multi crore scam in government dental colleges of the state, the state vigilance department has been questioning the faculty, admintrative department and all the people at he helm of affairs. It is pertinent to mention here that the principal who is the main accused is still holding his own position. Action on government’s part is still awaited.

Better amenities in rural areas priority of Govt.: Dy CM

Tours Pargwal and adjoining areas

JAMMU, APRIL 21 – Reiterating resolve of the government to develop rural and far flung areas on modern lines, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand said coalition government is keen to provide all basic amenities to the people living in far-off areas at par with those living in urban areas, for which various development projects have been launched in rural areas.

Tara Chand was holding a public meeting at Pargwal in which Sarpanchs, Panchs, prominent citizens, senior officers of various departments and a large number of people participated.

 On the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister impressed upon the executing agencies engaged in cluster model village Pargwal project to speed up the pace and progress of the work, so as to complete the project within the stipulated time frame besides ensuring quality work with judicious use of funds.

He assured people that model village, Pargwal being developed under cluster area approach of Border Area Development Project (BADP)would be completed at the earliest, adding that the  model village project will include creation of modern infrastructure and after completion will have facilitates  like mobile dispensaries with potable equipments, educational infrastructure in primary and middle schools will be upgraded by constructing hostel facility, better lanes and drain facilities, augmentation of drinking water supply, bus stops at various locations, Mini Mandis at various villages, play fields, eight Community cum facilities Centres (CFC), Anganwari centres, guest house and various other developmental infrastructure.

Mr. Tara Chand congratulated the people of the Pargwal and adjoining areas for the sanctioning of special package cluster model village which covers twenty one villages. With active support from the Union Government, the State Government has launched mega-development projects in the State, he added.

On the occasion, the Sarpanches, Panches apprised the Deputy Chief Minister about their grievances and demands of their respective areas which mainly include interrupted power supply, safe drinking water, road connectivity, upgradation of schools, benefits under various state and centrally sponsored government schemes, assurance for adequate water availability for irrigation purpose in coming summer season, etc.

Responding to their demands, Mr. Tara Chand assured that all their genuine demands would be redressed in a stipulated time frame.

While directing PHE authorities, the Deputy Chief Minister said keeping in view the coming summer season all the completed lift irrigation schemes in the area should be tested and commissioned at the earliest for benefit of the people of the area.

He called upon officers to consult members of Panchayats before taking up any project, adding that Sarpanchs and Panchs are closer to public and can give constructive inputs on field requirements of the area.

Mr. Tara Chand called upon Sarpanchs and Panchs to motivate youth of the area to derive maximum benefit from employment oriented schemes initiated by the government. He said flagship schemes like SKEWPY have ample scope to help youth in starting their own ventures and be master of their own destiny. These schemes promote entrepreneurship and help young force to look beyond the government sector for jobs, he added.

He said government is doing its best to provide power, water and other basic amenities to the public, but it is duty of the consumer to pay utility bills on time. He directed the concerned officers to collect revenue from the consumers regularly and past recoveries should be made in phased manner.

Asking educated youth to dedicate themselves for service of those living in border and tough terrains, the Deputy Chief Minister said Inter-District recruitment gives opportunity to work all over the state , as reserved candidates can now apply in posts throughout the state. He said more and more candidates should apply and serve in areas which are lacking in facilities due to non availability of staff in government institutions.

Galaxy of Ulemas, intellectuals, scholars participated in the prestigious conference on Maulana Rumi at Kashmir University

            SRINAGAR, APRIL 21: A seminar on the “Importance of teachings of Rumi in contemporary world” was organized in Gandhi Bhawan of Kashmir University here today. The first of its kind, the seminar was organized by Jamait-i-Himayat-ul-Islam.

            A galaxy of renowned scholars and intellectuals read their papers highlighting Rumi’s moral teachings through his Masnavi Manvi which left indelible imprints on the Muslim community of the world.

            The seminar was presided over by Maulana Showkat Hussain Keing while Justice Bashir Ahmad Kirmani, Moulana Mir Mohammad Tayab Kamili, Dr. Javid Iqbal Moulana Altaf Rafiquee and others read their papers on life and teachings of Maulana Rumi (RA).

            Addressing the seminar, Justice Bashir Ahmad Kirmani said that Rumi was a great spiritualist and a great scholar of Islam. He said that his way was God’s own way and by propagating his philosophy and teachings we can redeem our young generation whom we are fast losing to corrupt culture and waywardness. He said that his teachings have made destinies of those who followed him.

            Maulana Showkat Hussain Keing in his address highlighted the Maulana’s philosophy of brotherhood. He said that Mir Syed Ali Hamadani introduced philosophy and teachings of Rumi in Kashmir. He said that many an ills of current imperfect times can be addressed by adhering to Rumi’s teachings.

            Addressing the seminar, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Qanoongo said that Rumi’s teachings can be our guideline for traversing the current utterly chaotic and unpredictable times. Mr. Qanoongo lamented the loss of culture and heritage which is eroding with every passing day. He said that we can revive our culture and heritage by following Maulana’s teaching and his universal message of brotherhood and amity.

            Director Information, Khawaja Farooq Renzushah addressing the seminar said that mention of Rumi makes us to think of spirituality and undying love for our Prophet (SAW). He said that we are going through turbulent times and need is to ignore the irrelevant issue and work for strengthening bonds of humanism. He said that our philosophy is one and we should not get swayed by different outlooks. He said that Awliya-i-Kiram led us to the path of Islam and need of the hour is to propagate their teachings. He said that for contemporary Muslim redemption lies in following the path of great spiritual saints of Islam who stood for peace and brotherhood.

            Dr. Bashir Ahmad Nehvi while highlighting the life and teachings of Maulana Rumi said that he touched every aspect of life in his Masnavi. He said that Rumi’s teachings and philosophy has universal appeal. He said he was a great spiritualist and his Masnavi is a book of unparallel poetic beauty.

            Dr. Syed Abdul Majid Andrabi addressing the seminar said that Maulana’s contribution in literature is extra-ordinary saying that Maulana touched the heights of spirituality.

            Later, Mr. Wali Mohammad Makhdoomi presented a PowerPoint presentation on philosophy and teachings of Maulana Rumi and Allama Iqbal.   

Shri Amarnathji Yatra-2012: Registration to commence on 7^th May

Health Certification made compulsory

          JAMMU, APRIL 21 – The process of registering Yatris for this year’s Shri Amarnathji Yatra shall commence on 7^thMay, 2012, simultaneously for both the Baltal and Chandanwari routes, through 174 Bank Branches and via the Internet based e-Registration System. The decision to commence the registration for this year’s Yatra was taken during an extensive review meeting held yesterday by the Shrine Board Chairman, Mr.  N. N. Vohra, with Mr. Navin K. Choudhary, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Preet Pal Singh, Additional Chief Executive Officer and other concerned functionaries of the Board.

         Mr. Choudhary informed that the registration of the Yatris will commence, across the country, from Registration Counters located in 121 designated Branches of the J&K Bank, 49 Branches of the YES Bank and 4 District Cooperative Banks.  For the information of all concerned, full details of all the Registration Centres are being shown on the Board’s website, www.shriamarnathjishrine.com. CEO further stated that, as recommended by the Board’s sub-Committee headed by H. H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankarji, and consequently approved by the Shrine Board, this year’s Yatra shall commence simultaneously, along both the Baltal and the Chandanwari routes, on 25^th June and culminate on Raksha Bandhan, the 2^nd August, 2012.

        While applying for an Yatra Permit every intending Yatri would be required to submit a Health Certificate issued by a Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP).  CEO informed that 45, 68 and 107 Yatris had lost their lives in the 2009, 2010 and 2011 Yatras, respectively. In this context, and also considering that a majority of the Yatris do not pay serious attention to the Health Advisories issued by the CEO, the Board has decided that the Yatris should undergo a compulsory health check-up and furnish a Health Certificate from a Registered Medical Practitioner when they apply for a Yatra Permit. This requirement had also been advised by the National Disaster Management Authority, he added.

          CEO stated that, with the close attention paid by the Shrine Board Chairman, Mr.  N. N. Vohra, it had been possible to progressively expand the Registration network every year, for enhancing the convenience of the intending Yatris. This year, the Board has been able to increase the number of Bank Registration Counters to 174 this year, from 149 in 2011.

          For the purpose of Registration, to be done on “First-Come-First-Serve Basis”, the requisite Application Form and the Compulsory Health Certificate Form can be collected from any of the designated branches of J&K Bank, YES Bank and Cooperative Banks or downloaded from the Board’s website.  Registration will be done through a Yatra Permit, which will be issued on the submission of a duly filled-in Application Form, Compulsory Health Certificate and payment of handling charges of Rs. 15/- per Yatri. As decided by the Chairman, there shall be no increase in the handling charges of Rs. 15/- per Yatri for Registration done through the aforesaid Registration Counters or through the Internet based e-Registration system.

          The CEO said that the Yatris can obtain a provisional Yatra Permit on-line via the website of J&K Bank (http://yatra.jkbank.net), on payment of handling charges of Rs. 15/- per Yatri. However, Yatris who hold provisional Yatra Permits shall have to submit the prescribed Health Certificate at Yatra Base Camps – Baltal and Nunwan – and have their provisional Yatra Permits stamped by officials of the Shrine Board before being allowed to proceed beyond the Base Camps. This facility has been especially provided for the benefit of those pilgrims who may not have ready access to any of the 174 designated Registration Counters. CEO stated that every Registered Yatri shall be covered by an Accidental Insurance of Rs. one lakh, which is paid for by the Shrine Board.

          Cautioning the Yatris against undertaking this arduous Yatra without securing a Yatra Permit, Mr.  Choudhary stressed that, for ensuring effective security arrangements along the difficult tracks, only those Yatris will be allowed to proceed beyond the Base Camps, and cross the Entry Gates at Domel and Chandanwari, who are in possession of a Yatra Permit which is valid for a specified date and route. The CEO appealed to all intending Yatris to early complete the necessary formalities for Registration and timely obtain a Yatra Permit, in their own interest, so that no inconvenience is faced by any Yatri on the date of his/ her Yatra.

          The CEO stated that, from 7^th May 2012 onwards, the interested Yatris can reserve their heli-seats through the web based on-line Reservation System, by logging on to the Shrine Board’s website. He clarified that, to reduce inconvenience and delays, any Yatri who travels by the helicopter services would not be required to obtain a Yatra Permit but shall need to furnish a Compulsory Health Certificate before being allowed to board the helicopter. CEO explained that the helicopter ticket would serve as Yatra Permit for the Yatris traveling by helicopter services, as the format of the ticket would contain the information required by the Board.

         Mr. Choudhary informed that the helicopter services for the Yatris, who wish to avail of such facilities, would be available on each of the two routes viz. Baltal-Panjtarni-Baltal and Pahalgam-Panjtarni-Pahalgam. The one way heli-fare for Baltal-Panjtarni and Pahalgam-Panjtarni has been fixed at Rs. 1445/- and Rs. 2355/-, respectively.  He further disclosed that from Panjtarni to the Holy Cave, a hilly track of about 6 kms, the Yatris may travel on foot or by Ponies or Palkies, as per their convenience. The CEO noted that this year one-way passenger fare for Baltal-Panjtarni has been reduced to Rs. 1445/-, from Rs. 2425/- last year.  Like-wise, the one-way passenger fare for Pahalgam-Panjtarni has been reduced to Rs. 2355/-, from Rs. 3495/- last year.

          The CEO has appealed that all intending Yatris should, in their own interest, strictly adhere to the announced Yatra schedule and, under no circumstances whatsoever, venture on the arduous track except on the date and by the route for which they possess a Yatra Permit. He also urged the Yatris, before commencing Yatra, to most carefully read the Do’s and Don’ts which are printed on the reverse of the Yatra Permit and are also available at the Board’s website. He also advised the intending Yatris to read the Health Advisories, available on Board’s website, before embarking on the Yatra. 

Policy on state’s hydro potential launched to meet power scarcity: Rohullah

       JAMMU, APRIL 21: The Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) of Science and Technology Department organized one day seminar on implementation of “Policy for development of Mini/Micro Hydro Power Projects-2011 in J&K State” here at Hotel Asia today.

Minister for Science & Technology, Aga Syed Rohullah Mehdi inaugurated the seminar.

Among others Secretary Science and Technology Mr. M. K. Dwivedi, Chief Executive Officer, JAKEDA Mr. Fida Hussain, Member JKSERC, Mr. D. S. Pawar, Development Commissioner Power, Mr. M. A. Salroo, Director MNRE, Government of India, Mr. B. K. Bhatt, Consultant JKSPDC,  Er. A. R. Tak, teams of senior officers of Department of New and Renewable Energy of Uttrakhand and Himachal Pradesh States, Engineers and Officers of JKPDD, JAKEDA and PDC attended the seminar.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the main objective of the policy is to attract investors for development of the State water resources in an environment friendly manner. This will provide a solution to the energy problems in remote and hilly areas where extension of grid system is uneconomical or un-viable. He said this will also help in generating revenue for the state besides generating employment avenues.

The Minister said that the development of hydro potential in the state is expected to boost infrastructure development, industrialization and employment generation. He said the policy aims not only to provide energy at affordable cost for general public and for socio friendly industrial development but can also turn into a net energy exporter.

The Minister said that with the endeavour to promote and install micro/mini hydle projects in the state, Power Development Department has already endowed JAKEDA with a mandate to implement all Micro/Mini Hydle Projects up to 2 MW station capacities. He said that the mini/micro Hydle Projects be built in isolated areas that would be uneconomic to serve from a network, or in areas where there is no electrical distribution network.

The Minister asked the individuals and private entrepreneurs to come forward and cooperate with the government for development of Mini Hydro Power Projects in the State under an Independent Power Producer (IPP) or on joint venture mode for which the Government will provide every assistance to them.

Mr. Rohullah said that 95,000 solar lights were distributed among the beneficiaries of the State which included 15000 solar lanterns for the Gujar and Bakarwal community. He said that a proposal for additional 20,000 solar lights has been submitted to the Department of New and Renewable Energy for approval adding that these solar lights are proposed to be distributed among the people living in border areas near LoC.

The Minister said that 69 hospitals of the state have been covered under the programme and focussed attention is being given to cover the major shrines including Hazratbal, Mata Vaishno Devi, Ragunath Temple etc.

Rafi conferred Public Adm Excellence Award

Hasnain describes Rafi a rare combination of worth, virtue

BUDGAM, APRIL, 21:- GOC-15 Corps, Lt. Gen. S. A. Hasnain today conferred award of Excellence in public administration to Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC), Budgam Mr. Mohammad Rafi.

The Award was presented to Mr. Rafi at a function organized in Berwah, Budgam which was among others attended by senior officers of civil administration and prominent citizens.

While presenting the prestigious award to Mr. Rafi, Gen Hasnain hailed the access and outreach model adopted by Mr. Rafi to redress the grievances of the people. He described Mr. Rafi as a rare combination of worth and virtue” adding that Rafi has earned a niche among the general masses for being proactive and responsive to the grievances of the masses especially hailing from bad pockets and downtrodden segments of the society.

Mr. Rafi has been working as DDC Budgam since last three years and is being respected by all the districts for his innovative “Access and outreach model” for addressing the problems of the people.

PSGA symbolizes transition from public administration

to public service: Rather

Tackling unemployment main concern of the Govt.

            SRINAGAR, APRIL 21: Asserting that all possible resources are being mobilized to provide improved services to the general masses, the Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr. A.R. Rather today vowed to uphold the trust and confidence of the people reposed in the coalition Government led by Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah. It is endeavour of the Government to come upto the expectations of the people, he added.

            Addressing a public gathering at Tulsi Bagh, Srinagar, Mr. Rather said giving every citizen a say and voice in the State’s Governance was the primary objective of the Government adding that empowerment of people by strengthening the basic units of democracy is a landmark initiative taken by the Government in this regard. He said Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA) passed by the State legislature is a historic decision of the Government to ensure time bound delivery of services to the people, adding that the Act has made concerned officers accountable to provide required services to the people in a fixed time frame, failing which concerned officers will be liable to imposition of fine besides disciplinary action under rules. “Forty services of 6 major departments including Power, CA&PD, Housing and Urban Development, Revenue, PHE and Transport have been brought under the ambit of the Act, Mr. Rather added.

            “The Act is a bold initiative towards making administration responsive and accountable and eradicates corruption”. Mr. Rather said adding that Right to Information (RTI) Act is another landmark public initiative which guarantees quick response to the grievances of the people. He said some more vital services including issuance of character verification certificate by Police department are also being brought under PSGA shortly to provide relief and convenience to the people. “In fact the Act symbolizes the transition from public administration to public service, which will bring transparency and accountability in the administration”, Mr. Rather said.

            The Finance Minister said the massive developmental schemes underway in nook and corner of the State has steered the State towards a major socio-economic revolution. “These people friendly measures have raised the popularity graph of National Conference among the people which has unnerved the opposition”, Mr. Rather said. He cautioned the people about the disinformation campaign of the opposition and asked them to supplement Government efforts by monitoring execution of works in their respective areas to ensure judicious use of funds and quality of building material.

            Saying that the unemployment problem is the biggest challenge which cannot be overlooked, Mr. Rather said Government is keen to remove the feeling of despair among the unemployed youth. He said despite limited resources, the present Government has recruited about 40,000 educated youth in a transparent manner through different recruitment agencies adding that exploration of more job opportunities for the unemployed educated youth would continue in future also. However, he asked the youth to venture in self employment schemes for earning a dignified livelihood adding the J&K EDI has been established to provide free basic training and guidance to the entrepreneurs for establishing their income generating units besides providing 30 percent of the total cost of the unit as seed capital fund which shall be free and non-refundable. “An MoU has been signed with J&K Bank to ensure lending facility for the entrepreneurs sponsored by EDI within two months”, the Finance added.      

Illicit liquor seized at Pahalgam by Excise Deptt

            SRINAGAR, APRIL 21: A Raiding Party of Excise department headed by Excise & Taxation Officer, Kashmir, Mr. Shameem Ahmad Rather alongwith Excise Inspectors Mr. M.S. Khan and Mr. Mudasir Yasin Hamdani conducted raids at various places of district Anantnag.

            During raid, a huge quantity of illicit liquor was seized. Two culprits were arrested on the spot by the raiding party and handed over to the concerned Police Station for necessary action. The drive against illicit liquor and drug trade will continue in future.

Shailendra Kumar reviews Saffron Mission,

Vegetable Initiative

            PAMPORE, APRIL 21: In order to review the implementation of National Mission on Saffron and National Vegetable initiative Director Horticulture Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. Of India Shailendra Kumar today visited various areas of Srinagar and Pulwama Districts where the activities under the mission are being implemented.

            During the Visit he inspected the ongoing work on Saffron Park which is being constructed at Drusoo Pampore and the work of digging of Bore Wells at Indroosa. While interacting with the Saffron growers, he said that Rs 372 Crore National Mission on Saffron is aimed to increase production and productivity, maintaining quality and improving marketing facilities of Saffron growers. He said that in order to provide adequate marketing cover to the saffron growers and eliminate middle men exploitation a modern Saffron Park with quality control Lab will be established at Dursoo Pampore for which Rs.22.6 Crore have been earmarked.

            He asked Saffron Growers to avail the benefits of National Mission on Saffron optimally for improving their livelihood. He asked officers and officials of the Department to work with farmers to ensure transfer of technologies to achieve highest production potential of Saffron. Saffron growers expressed satisfaction about the implementation of the mission and appreciated the efforts of Agriculture department.

            Later on Shailendra Kumar reviewed the progress of Saffron Mission and Vegetable initiative for Srinagar city in a meeting with the officers of the department EDI Pampore. He said that the road map for implementation for various components of the mission has now been established and the work has taken off well. Targets under various components for 2012-13 were fixed and discussion regarding overcoming bottlenecks taken in the meeting. Mr. Kumar asked the engineers of the Department to ensure construction of 72 Bore Wells during the current season. He impressed upon the officers and officials of the department to work as the facilitators of the farming community.

            Director Agriculture Dr. Farooq A. Lone apprised the meeting that during the year 2011-2012, 337 Hectares of Saffron land has been brought under rejuvenation for which Rs 18 Crore incentive was provided to the farmers. Besides 333 Vermi compost units were established for which Rs 99.90 lakhs incentive has been provided, 60 Weeders were purchased by the farmers for which incentives Rs. 30 lakhs were provided. He said that during current year 1000 hectares of saffron land will be brought under rejuvenation for Saffron corms under the mission.

            Earlier, Mr. Kumar visited the seedling nursery at Lal Mandi established under National Vegetable initiative. He suggested that a high-tech seedling nursery on the pattern of Gharanda Haryana be developed under the vegetable initiative during the current year.