Rift between Wani and DC kupwara turns ugly.

Additional cmnr. Kmr.  stands by his report, as

Div. com orders another enquiry.

Srinagar, April 7 (VOS):  In an all out war between the Additional Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and Deputy Commissioner Kupwara on the allegations of corruption and misappropriation of funds, Divisional commissioner Kashmir on Saturday ordered an extension to a parallel enquiry being conducted on the instructions of Chief Secretary and asked the enquiry panel to submit its report within next 15 days.

Meanwhile rejecting the allegations of ‘graft’ by the deputy commissioner, Additional Commissioner Kashmir said that he stands by his enquiry report and stressed that the concerned DC was involved in the ‘misappropriation’ of  funds. However, DC Kupwara made it clear that he had nothing personal against Wani and there were some agencies who wanted to create a void between the two. Sources told VOS that taking strong note of the leakage of deputy commissioner’s confidential letter to chief secretary, Divisional commissioner Dr. Asgar Ali Samon has asked deputy commissioner to ascertain as how the letter was leaked. “The letter is either with you or with me.” Samon is understood to have told Deputy Commissioner Kupwara in a hurriedly called meeting on Saturday. The DC however, told VOS that he had nothing to do with the leakage of letter as it pertains to highly sensitive official matter.  The meeting was also reportedly attended by executive engineers of R&B division Baramullah and Electric division Sopore, besides additional district development commissioner Kupwara , Chief horticulture officer Baramullah and the deputy commissioner  along with additional deputy commissioner Kashmir. During the meeting Samon reportedly asked the enquiry officers to thoroughly probe the matter and submit a fact find report within 15 days so that the case is forwarded to higher authorities.

Meanwhile Additional Commissioner Kashmir Abdul Majeed Wani while rejecting the allegations leveled by DC on him told VOS that he stands by his enquiry report. “ His additional deputy commissioner also has accepted misappropriation by him(DC) in front of him in today’s meeting” told Wani, adding that even the enquiry committee constituted by the divisional commissioner also confirmed the irregularities in today’s meeting. “I can take anybody to the site and show him the ground situation”. Told Wani. He added that at one site even concerned JVOSor Engineer also admitted that the loss was not more than 2 thousand where as according to additional Commissioner, the DC sought 7 lakh for the same. While elaborating further, additional deputy commissioner said that at ‘Pohro peth ‘village 70 lakhs have been shown the cost of restoration of water supply scheme which the locals claimed wasn’t done at all. He said he will not bow down and will continue to put forth the facts before the higher authorities.

Meanwhile,  Deputy commissioner Kupwara Mohammad shafi Rather told VOS that it was not only the Kupwara district where the enquires were  being conducted. “Government has drawn officers from other districts to conduct an impartial enquiry in all districts.” Adding that he had nothing against Wani. He clarified that he had nothing to do with leakage of the letter.

Pertinently the controversy between two officers surfaced after a media report alleged that wani had indicted DC for drawing the money against the non existing works in the frontier district, an allegation deputy commissioner has rejected. However the matter did not end here. It even turned more serious when deputy commissioner complained to Chief secretary that Wani was asking for’ bribe’ to release the funds.

DC Kupwara while contesting the inquiry report, has in his commVOScation to the CS termed it “biased.” The report, according to him was submitted by the Additional Commissioner directly to the Chief Secretary with a “malicious intent”.
“He (Additional Commissioner Kashmir) called Joint Director Planning of DC Kupwara office and demanded gratification for pushing through the papers (seeking release of funds),” DC Kupwara’s letter to CS bearing number DCK/PS/2011/8252-58 dated: 9. 11.2011 reads.
“In the absence of Shri Asgar Samoon (Divisional Commissioner), Shri Abdul Majeed Mir was officiating as Divisional Commissioner Kashmir. The instant statement (work-done liabilities) was taken hold of by Shri Abdul Majeed Wani and staggered on his table till October 2011. In between he called for the Joint Director Planning of DDC Kupwara. When he found that the concerned officer has shown declination for his proposition for extraneous considerations for pushing up the papers, he felt slighted and rushed to Kupwara for purported verification of the (flood) loss without taking the Divisional Commissioner into confidence,” the letter further reads.
The contents of the official memo further reveal that district administration Kupwara was kept in dark on random checks carried out by the Additional Commissioner.
“He did not take on board concerned DC and other senior officers including SE R&B, SE Hydraulic and concerned Xens who had compiled the statement of flood losses instead he relied on the statement of Patwaris, linemen and sundry persons.” the commVOSqué reveals.
The DC Kupwara did not stop here and questioned the route taken by the Additional Commissioner for submitting the inquiry report.
“After compiling the report he (Additional Commissioner) bypassed the routine official channels - Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Financial Commissioner (Revenue), Commissioner/Secretary to Government Revenue Department and submitted the report directly to Chief Secretary,” reads the memo which was leaked to press.

JK Tourism to promote mice and golf tourism in the international and domestic markets

Srinagar, April 7 (VOS): While  continuing its efforts  to promote j and Kashmir  as one of the best destination  J & K Tourism  has  become  agressive  to  position it  as an ideal  destination for MICE (meetings,incentives,conferences and events) and Golf  tourism   in a fresh effort  The director tourism  Farooq a shah  met  some of the important  players  /experts  of conference  tourism and GOLF  tourism  which included the vice chairman of icpb (india convention promotion beureu) of which skicc is an active member since 2003 and  globally established names  in the golf tourism like PGTI (professional Golf Tour of india), various  suggestions and strategies to promote conference tourism and golf tourism were  discussed and devised  so that jand  k becomes the attraction for the conference delegates and golfers  all over the country and the world  , representatives from COX and KINGS  shared their conferencing  experiences of last year  by saying that  Kashmir has no parallel for its hospitality,natural beauty and  the infrastructure of confereces and Golfing . The Director tourism accompanied by Research officer skicc  presented  the services and infrastructure  available in jank  by an audio visual presentation  which was surprising for the  experts , Director tourism in his address  informed the invitees  that jand Kashmir is an ideal Mice destination  for summers  because of its mild weathers  and world class infrastructure  ,SKICC being the main international standard conference facilty  is backed by nageen club,nowgam TRC,RSGC  ,gulmarg club and in new pahalgam club also one convention hall will be there for organizing confereces and events  ,LEH will also have a conference centre soon .The director tourism  said that J and Kashmir is already equipped with international  standard Golfing infrastructure  RSGC  being an ideal world class spectacular golf turf is an ideal attraction for  any golf lover across the  world  besides this pahalgam and gulmarg also have the world class 18 hold golf course and leh also will have n international golf course soon ,there  are many more golf courses in sringar jammu  and other parts of the state which makes jk obiviously  the Golfers paradise in and outside the country said Mr shah . Mr varun from PGTI  after watching a movie on golfing infrastructure of jk  said that PGTI will ensure that  the golfers from korea japan ,malysia and other  countries will come to play golf on these wolrd class golfing turfs  he said that if jk tourism  facilitates we will convert jk  a round the year golfing destination . The vice president IATO (Indian  associaition of tour operators ) and JMD of creative travels Mr Rajeev kohli  also spoke about the conference tourism and how to  get the international traffic  to Kashmir for conferencing. Icpb  vice chairman Mr Chandarmansharmani and hony secretay  Mr Shayam Nagpal also attended  the  meeting   along with the other delegates  who handle the corporates  like vodaphone ,airtell ,Samsung  and other multinationals .  Director Tourism /skicc  as   a concluding note said that it is a dream come true that now we get lot of  calls to arrange a single room as such is the influx of tourist arrivals  touchwood ! now it is our endeavour  to make jk  round the year  conferencing and Golfing paradise ! shahnawaz.

 Change of guard in National Conference,

Farooq appoints Omar as working president, Kamal also makes a come back .

Srinagar, April 7 (VOS):  In an important development the ruling national conference on Saturday appointed Chief Minster Omar Abdullah as working president for the party whereas the firebrand leader Dr. Mustafa Kamal was again entrusted with the responsibilities of additional general secretary of the Party, a post he had to surrender following a controversy over  his remarks against Congress general secretary Rahul Ghandi   last year.

The decision was taken in a high level meeting held at Srinagar under the chairmanship of party president Dr. farooq Abdullah. Sources within the party told VOS that senior Abdullah wanted Omar to take the charge of party in wake of the forthcoming MVOScipal polls because of his non availability in the state due to his engagements in centre. “There was a very comprehensive and detailed discussion on the preparedness of party for mVOScipal polls and party doesn’t want to display a poor show.” Added sources.

Meanwhile the decision regarding the overhauling was made public by the party president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Saturday noon at a press conference held at Sher e Kashmir bawan Jammu. Addressing the media, the VOSon minster said that due to his engagements he was not able to see the party matters on daily basis and it was hence decided that Chief Minster Omar Abdullah would function as working president so that party is strengthened further. Farooq also said that the firebrand leader and his brother Dr. Mustafa Kamal was appointed as the additional general secretary, Parliament member Mohammad Shafi (uri) the chief spokesman, Tanveer Sadiq the former corperator will be the new spokesperson for Kashmir province and MLA kashtawr Sajad Ahmad Kichlo will function as spokesperson for Jammu province. Meanwhile former MLC , has A.r.Badana  has been made vice president of the gujar and bakerwal cell of the party.

Pertinently VOS a few days ago had quoted National Conference sources saying that Party top leadership wanted a change in the hierarchy and it was contemplated that some senior leaders will be given the party responsibilities whereas a few new faces may find their way into cabinet.

Meanwhile Dr. Farooq Abdullah flew back to Srinagar after the press conference and drove straightway to Party General secretary Sheikh Nazir’s residence from airport to brief him about the developments.

Soz for better relations between India and Pakistan

Pitches for more CBMs 

Srinagar, April 7 (VOS): Prof. Saifuddin Soz MP (Former VOSon Minister) & President J&K Pradesh Congress Committee addressed a gathering at Sadanara (Hajin-Sonawari) Bandipora today.

Responding to the local demands Prof.Soz sanctioned Rs.5.00 Lakhs for Sports Field at Sadanara, Rs. 3.00 Lakhs for fencing of the School ground  and 2.50 KV Transformer out of his MP LAD funds. Prof. Soz assured them that the health sub centre would be upgraded and school would be properly staffed, as early as possible.

On this Occasion Prof. Soz told the people that the Pakistan’s Civil Society was making a strong plea for adoption of CBMs like functioning of Mobile Phones, operation of air Services, exchange of Artists, Writers Film Personalities and professionals, promotion of trade and Commerce, streamlining and easing of visa facilities etc.  He also said that the Civil Society representatives in   India had responded favorably to these initiatives.  He said that he (Prof.Soz) led a delegation of Members of Parliament drawn from various parties and met External Affairs Minister Shri. S. M. Krishna recently, supporting the initiatives from the civil Society of Pakistan and Shri. Krishna had assured the delegation that Government of India would consider these proposals very favourably.

Prof. Soz further said that he had also supported the streamlining of trade and civil traffic on the Srinagar-Rawalpindi road by promotion of banking and telecommVOScation services  on this road, so that the trade  and travel  on this road would become brisk and fully purposeful. He told the people that these proposals are receiving active consideration of Prime Minister.

 He was accompanied by Shri. Raman Bhalla Minister of Revenue & Rehabilitation Mohd Muzaffar Parray Senior Vice President.

  

Hurriyat (M) delegation visits Izhar’s home.

Srinagar, April 7 (VOS):  A Hurriyat (M) delegation led bY Shabir Ahmad Shah on Saturday visited late Izhar Wani’s residence at sempora (Pampore) and paid condolences to the bereaved family. Wani passed away on Wednesday at SKIMS where he was being treated for cancer. The deligation also included Ghulam Qadir Beigh, Nayeem Ahamd Khan,Moulana S. M Rehman Shams, Zafer Akbar Bhat, Peer Ghulam Nabi and Ferrroz Ahmad Bhat. According to Hurriyat statement  delegation also extended  condolences on behalf of its chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

Speaking on the occasion Shabir Ahmad Shah while hailing the professional attitude of late wani said, “ We have lost such a talented journalist who with his professional capabilities highlighted the ground situation at international level.”

7^th anniversary of opening of LoC

FM releases IRF-CR’s first ever opinion survey on trade

Jammu, April 7 (VOS): On the seventh anniversary of opening of Line of Control for travel between two divided parts of Jammu and Kashmir, the Indus Research Foundation today presented to the people two creative works –a first ever opinion survey with Cross-LoC traders and a film on divided families –both works produced with support from Conciliation Resources, a London based peace-building organisation that has been supporting the local partners in Jammu and Kashmir since 2009.

Amidst a galaxy of civil society actors, legislators, academicians, journalists and representatives of the chambers of commerce and industries from different parts of state, the Minister for Finance Abdul Rahim Rather released the opinion survey which, is an interim report of a larger study on ‘Peace-building and Economic Potential of Cross-LoC Trade’. The study commissioned and supported by Conciliation Resources is being conducted by Indus Research Foundation and Centre for Peace, Democracy and Reforms, on Indian and Pakistani side of Jammu and Kashmir, respectively, through a team of economists and researchers.

The Minister for Finance lauded the efforts of IRF, CPDR and CR for coming up with an opinion survey which brings to public the three-year experience of the Cross-LoC Traders, their present status and future vision. He said that the report will be helpful for the government in formulating policies for institutionalising the Cross-LoC trade which is still conducted on barter basis.

The President of Jammu-Kashmir Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry Dr Mubeen Ahmed Shah made a detailed presentation on the current scenario of trade and future challenges.

Earlier, Prof Dipankar Sengupta, the lead economist on the research project made presentation on interpretations of the opinion survey.

Indus Research Foundation (IRF), Jammu, an upcoming regional centre for research on issues of historical and contemporary importance in Jammu and Kashmir, together with Centre for Peace, Development and Reforms (CDPR), Mirpur, partnered as two organisations on either side of Line of Control to undertake the research.

IRF lead by Zafar Choudhary and CPDR led by Ershad Mahmud engaged with prominent economists from the region to undertake a comprehensive research with stakeholder inputs for being able to suggest a workable roadmap for realising the full economic and peace-building potential of the Cross-LoC trade. Prof Dipanker Sengupta of the Department of Economics at VOSversity of Jammu and Zubair Faisal Abbasi, a Development Consultant in Islamabad, are leading a group of researchers on either side of the LoC on this study.

This Opinion Poll, first ever of its kind, with makes a part of the larger study report on Cross-LoC trade and is being presented to the public at this stage as an interim report for inviting wider public and policy debate on the issue.

The questionnaire for Opinion Poll was designed by Dipankar Sengupta with assistance of Bhanu Pratap Singh. 19 questions were posed to a selected sample of ten percent of all traders at four trading centres –Chakan-da-Bagh, Tetrinote, Salamabad and Chakothi. A former civil servant KD Maini interviewed the traders at Chakan-da-Bagh while a management professional Saqib Bandey interviewed the traders at Salamabad in the month of February 2012.

The results have been jointly analysed by Ershad Mahmud, Zafar Choudhary, Dipankar Sengupta and Zubair Faisal Abbasi.    

On the occasion, a film ‘Vitasta –journey through the river Jehlum’ was screened. Again, a work of Cross-LoC creative collaboration, the film on divided families is made by Pawan Bali and Arif Urfi, journalists based in Jammu and Muzaffarabad respectively. Supported by Conciliation Resources, the film Vitasta was made in a VOSque creative collaboration in which the filmmakers got the first chance to meet only at the stage of editing. The entire concept sharing was done through emails and filming was done in isolation.

The co-maker of the film, Pawan Bali, an acclaimed television journalist, made a presentation on the making of the film. Renowned art historian and theatre artist Prof Lalit Gupta presented an analysis of the film which was received by the audience to a standing ovation.

Former Director General of J&K Police Mr MM Khajuria and former Vice Chancellor Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah VOSversity Mr Masud Chaudhary presided over discussions on the film and other issues related to enhancing interactions between regions and commVOSties in Jammu and Kashmir.

 

Kashmiri jurno's Email corrects Urdu signage in Delhi  

Srinagar, April 7 (VOS): Acting on a complaint by a Kashmiri journalist, the Delhi government has corrected the wrongly written Urdu signage on the capital’s roads as pointed out by the journalist.

Srinagar-based journalist Pervez Majeed during a visit to Delhi had noticed several road signage on which text was either incorrect or had got erased. He took the pictures of many of such signage, and sent an email to chief minister Sheila Dikshit along with the pictures.

“I noticed that the Urdu text on most of the signage on the roads is either incorrect or has got erased. For example, the signage of Maulana Azad Road near Vice-President’s residence is ironically written as Maulana “Azarud” Road; while “Azad” means “being free,” the word “Azarud” almost means “being gloomy!” read the letter. Saying that the incorrect and erased Urdu text on  road signage of Delhi  has not only defaced the signage, but also gives an impression of casual approach towards the Urdu language, the Kashmiri journalist requested the CM to ask the concerned authorities to re-write correctly the Urdu text on such signage.

“This will be an example of the seriousness of your government towards the promotion and preservation of Urdu language, which is considered to be the symbol of love, harmony and secularism in India,” he said.

The other day, CM’s office informed Pervez Majeed that New Delhi MVOScipal Council (NDMC) has corrected the signage mentioned by him, and also orders have been issued to rectify all incorrect signage in the capital.

“With reference to received your letter dt. 09.03.12 addressed to Secretary NDMC along with copy of E-mail received form Sh. Pervez Majeed Lone (Journalist), Srinagar, Kashmir who has pointed out regarding above said subject.  In this regard it is to inform that necessary corrections have been made in signage as mention in his E-mail letter and further direction has been given to field executives to check the other road signage in NDMC area,” the commVOScation of NDMC addressed to Information Officer, CM Delhi reads.

A working journalist presently with English weekly Sahara Time of Delhi, Pervez Majeed has worked with Urdu media in Srinagar before switching over to English.

Pertinent to mention that Urdu enjoys the status of second official language in Delhi, but like J&K, the Urdu lovers have been complaining of official neglect toward the language.

Sikhs are being ignored by successive regimes: APSCC

Srinagar, April 7 (VOS): APSCC Chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina has pointed out the continued neglect and ignorance faced by Sikhs ontheir genuine issues in the J&K state. “The days have come when Sikhs of J&K will come on the roads for injustice done to them from 1947 till date”, APSCC Chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina said. He also remarked we have been pursuing our issues through all legal and political aspect but we are ignored at the cost of vote politics.

Now time has come when we will raise our issues at national and international forum. UN Human Rights has already been given the charter of legitimate issues faced on humanitarian grounds, now we will also hold protest demonstrations at all district Headquarters.

Even during the meeting with CM Omar Abdullah, in presence of party MLC, regarding the solution of problems faced by the Sikh has failed even after the assurance given by CM.

Time has come for those MLAs who have been elected in various constituencies with the help of Sikh votes to pay by losing their seats as Sikhs have decided to evaluate this concern. It is sure that ruling NC and Congress candidates will have hard time in coming elections as they are playing delay tactics with Sikh commVOSty on their genuine issues.

Still the MLAs of ruling alliance have time to understand the growing ground reality because decision still lies in their hand for solving the Sikh issues. If this time they fail to come up with the expectations of Sikhs, then the CommVOSty will not give them another chance.

Issues like Employment package for Sikhs , immediate issuance of State Subject through Central Authority, Minority Status as per National Commission for Minority Act, filling of Punjabi Vacant posts, timely inquiry in 36 killing of Sikhs at Chattisinghpora and compensation of Agriculture and horticulture losses  during turmoil.

ASPCC Chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina said that these issues are daily discussed by every Sikh at local level and soon this will take shape of agitation if not seriously taken up for early solution. He also requested the government to hold an inquiry in all these Sikh matters so that actual facts are known, where Sikhs feels discriminated and neglected at government level.

Strike call evokes feeble response: Police

Srinagar, April 7 (VOS): The call for strike for today called by a section of separatists evoked feeble response.

In most parts of valley, the call had a marginal impact on the daily chorus of life. It had no impact on the normal life in the districts of Bandipora, Kupwara and Uri town, Shops and other business establishments functioned partially in rest of the towns while private as well as some public transport was also seen plying on the roads in Srinagar city and some other towns.

Situation remained normal and under control. There were no reports of any untoward incident from any place.

 Omar for sustained Indo-Pak dialogue

‘J&K centric CBMs need focusing’

Sensitizes society regarding female feticide

Sham highlights achievements of Health Department

            JAMMU, APRIL 07- Welcoming the proposed meeting between Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh and Pak President, Asif Ali Zardari, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah highlighted the sustained dialogue between the two countries to resolve all issues.

            “We want a continuous dialogue process between the two neighbours to address the problems and find out solution”, he told the media at the sidelines of ‘World Health Day’ function he addressed at Zorawar Singh Auditorium in Jammu VOSversity on Saturday.

            “We would also like that Jammu and Kashmir centric CBMs like Cross LoC Bus Service and Trade matters be discussed apart from other ongoing issues. We would like that the Rehabilitation Policy for return of youth from PoK and Cross LoC infiltration also come up for talks so that benefits trickle to the State”, he said adding “we are in favour of sustained dialogue in an amicable atmosphere to address all bigger and smaller issues”.

            The Chief Minister said that the visit of VOSon Home Minister, P. Chidambaram to the State is a routine one. He said issues relating to the security scenario, AFSPA, Interlocutors Report, reduction of forces, etc would come up during the talks with the VOSon Home Minister.

            Addressing the gathering on ‘World Health Day’ function, the Chief Minister underscored the need for active involvement of civil society in stopping the evil of female feticide in the State and contributing in the successful implementation of ‘Save Girl Child Programme’.

            Omar Abdullah said that Jammu and Kashmir has earned bad name for the higher graph reported about the female feticide which should be great concern to every member of the society. “To discriminate girl child against boys and considering male children important than girls is a sick mindset which requires early addressing”, he said adding that this disease developing in the minds of people and making them to indulge in female feticide is the worst kind of ‘sin’ for which there is no forgiveness from the Almighty.

            “While government has geared up its machinery in Health and other concerned departments to focus on the issue and create public awareness about the far reaching consequences and dangerous effects of female feticide civil society has an important role to play in this direction”, he said underlining the role of ASHA workers in particular.

            Reiterating his government’s endeavour for VOSversalization of quality health service across the State, the Chief Minister said that healthy Jammu and Kashmir is his mission. He said the benefits of development can only be relished when the people are healthy. “Creation of schools and colleges, construction of roads and bridges, providing employment and bringing socio-economic betterment can be of positive utilization only when the people are healthy”, he said flagging health sector the most important one in the process of development.

            Omar Abdullah said that due to this significance, his government has paid highest attention towards holistic development of health sector during the last three years adding that the results of which are being witnessed on ground at present. “Our focus on this sector would continue”, he said appreciating the functionaries of the State Health and Medical Education Departments for proper implementation of schemes aimed at upgrading health facilities in the State. He also praised the efforts of State Health Minister in this regard.

            Omar Abdullah said that the revival of ASHA scheme by his government is proving highly beneficial in facilitating health facilities to pregnant women and children in rural areas. He said that government would further strengthen the scheme to enhance its reach and impact on the society and create awareness about ‘girl child safety’.

             On the slogan ‘good health adds life to years’ flagged for this year’s ‘World Health Day’, the Chief Minister describes it more relevant in the present day life style adding that the changes in our life pattern due to modernization, mechanization and industrialization have put question mark to the health of a person. He said that in order to add life to the years, necessary correction is required in our life style, food habits and other day to day activities.

            “Nowadays people especially children spent most of the time indoors watching TV. It is observed that children are reluctant to leave the TV and go for playing and outing. Our food habits are also changing fast”, he said adding that all this has to be looked into to ‘add life to the years’ particularly at the old age period when good health is of tremendous significance.

            The Chief Minister lauded the VOSon Government for extending various schemes in the health sector to the State to improve and upgrade health facilities. He said that National Urban Health Mission is being launched in the State on the pattern of National Rural Health Mission to cover the population in the towns and the cities of the State.

            Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Health, Sham Lal Sharma said that due to the efforts of Health Department and because of the overall guidance of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, the State has registered tremendous improvement in service delivery to the people in health sector.

            Substantiating his statement with facts and figures, Sham Lal Sharma said that during the last three years there has been 70 percent increase in the service delivery to OPD patients while it has been 128 percent to IPD patients. He said 120 percent increase has been registered in the conduct of operations, 115 percent in Ultrasound, 195 percent in Lab tests, 120 percent in X-ray and 74 percent in Institutional deliveries. He said these figures are authenticated by the increase in the receipt of fee showing increase of 302 percent despite no increase in the fee pattern.

            Sham Lal said that the improvement in the service delivery has been achieved due to the hard work of functionaries of the Health Department at various levels besides ASHA workers.

            “A roadmap for the sustained development in Health sector along with delivery of quality service has already been put in place”, he said adding that the next three years would witness holistic progress in this sector across the State.

            In her welcome address, Commissioner Secretary Health and Medical Education, Tanveer Jahan highlighted the significance of observance of ‘World Health Day’ on 7^th April every year with a theme adding that this helps the functionaries of the department to focus on the subject and make necessary dent.

            She said that the theme of ‘aging and health’ and the slogan ‘good health adds life to years’ selected for this year’s observance of ‘World Health Day’ would help the department to make these aspects benchmark to move ahead ensuring better service to the elderly people in the State.

            Present on the occasion, were Director Health Service, Jammu, Madhu Khullar, Director NRHM, Dr. Yash Paul Sharma, Director Indian System of Medicine, Dr. Kabir Dar, Director Family Welfare and other senior officers of the Health Department besides a large number of doctors, para-medical staff, ASHA workers and citizens.

            Performance Report of the Health Department covering last three years was also released on the occasion.

Operation of Spice Jet from Srinagar, Jammu to Kargil soon :Akhoon

NEW DELHI, APRIL 07- VOSon Ministry for Civil Aviation has decided to operate 78 seater Q-400 Spice jet aeroplane from Srinagar to Kargil and Jammu to Kargil for which trial landing at Kargil airport will start shortly.

This was stated by Minister for Transport Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon after a detailed discussion with the VOSon Minister for Civil Aviation, Choudhary Ajit Singh here today.

VOSon Minister apprised Mr. Akhoon that this decision has been taken by the Ministry on the basis of favourable reports submitted by teams headed separately by Director General Airport Authorities of India (AAI) Mr. Bharat Bhushan and Deputy Director AAI Mr. Lalit Gupta which in consultation with the Commissioner Civil Aviation, Jammu and Kashmir Mr. S. Katoch visited the mountainous district Kargil during last year to inspect facilities at the local air base for operating the passenger services. 

Mr. Ajit Singh said that the 78 seater Q- 400 Spice jet aeroplane has been specially procured by the Ministry to add it in the fleet of Spice Jet for operating exclusively in the snow bound areas like Kargil. He added that 78 seater Q- 400 Spice jet aeroplane is highly suitable for Kargil in view of its geographical and topographical conditions.

While expressing his gratitude to the VOSon Government for operating the proposed air service to Kargil, Mr. Akhoon has requested to the VOSon Minister to constitute a committee in consultation with the state government for preparation of flight schedules and finalizing the formalities for trial landing of Spice Jet at respective places.

The VOSon Minister has assured that matter is of priority nature and should be addressed as early as possible.

Mr. Akhoon has thanked the VOSon Ministry on behalf of the Chief Minister of State Omar Abdullah and the people of Kargil for meeting their long pending demand. He said that the air service was the need of the hour as the area remains land locked from other parts of the country during winter months due to heavy snow fall. He said that the people of Kargil, Drass and Zanaskar are facing tremendous problems due to closure of Zijola pass and operation of air service was very important for the people of the area.

Banking Model for Cross LOC Trade to replace barter system in offing: Rather

Says Trade, Travel links major CBMs between India-Pak

                JAMMU, APRIL 07:-  Maintaining that Cross LOC trade is a major Confidence Building Measure (CBM) to bring the two neighboring countries close to each other, the Minister for Finance & Ladakh Affairs, Mr. A. R. Rather today called upon the External Affairs Ministries of India and Pakistan to broad base the trade by removing all impediments to make it a hassle free and mutually beneficial economic activity adding that Cross LOC trade also involves cultural and emotional attachments of the people, living on two sides of the borders.

            “Not only Cross LOC trade but Cross-border travel restrictions also needed to be relaxed to remix divided families of the 1947 partition”, Mr. Rather said while speaking at a function organized to release, the first of its kind, survey report on Cross LOC Trade based on the opinion poll and experiences of the traders engaged with the trade. The event coincides with  the 7^th anniversary of opening of LOC for travel between Srinagar and Muzzfarabad, which was later opened to trade on October 21, 2008.

            The survey report has been formulated by the Indus Research Foundation (IRF), in association with the Centre for Peace, Development and Reforms based at Mirpur, PoK and supported by Conciliation Resources, a London based Peace-building organization.

            Mr. Rather said people across the Indo-Pak borders are geographically and culturally akin to each other adding that time has proved that 6-long decades of manmade partition couldn’t diminish their emotional and cultural attachments. He said, given the significant developments on global liberalization, time is ripe, for the rulers of both sides, to ponder on the yearning among the people of two sides for peace and coherence and remove all the restrictions in the way of free movement and free trade across the borders.

“Establishment of trade links and movement of goods through Cross LOC Trade is a significant CBM in the post-partition era, for the people across the borders, in view of the decades old traditional hostilities between the two neighboring countries of India and PAK”, Mr. Rather said.

            Mr. Rather said a Banking Model has been proposed for facilitating banking service for LOC trade by the Department of Financial services, Government of India (GOI) to replace existing barter system adding that the matter has been taken up with the Government of Pakistan for their consent. He said the proposed banking model shall be a pure commercial transaction between the banks on the two sides of the LOC without any involvement of the Central Banks. He said Cross LOC trade has been exempted from VAT and the number of trade days increased from 2 to 4 every week to give a big boost to it adding that construction of Trade Facilitation Centers (TFC) at Salamabad, Uri and Chakan-da-Bagh, Poonch  on this side of LOC is in full swing at a cost of  8.95 crore and  7.95 crore respectively. He said a proposal to make the list of goods for LOC Trade more specific has also been sent by the Ministry of External Affairs, GOI to Government of Pakistan which also focuses on expanding the list of tradable goods from the existing 21 items.

Maintaining that the Cross Loc trade is gaining momentum as an important business activity, Mr. Rather said the State Government especially, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is very keen for opening more trade routes between two sides of the borders with adequate banking mechanism and tele commVOScation facilities adding ISD facilities are already in place to the trades organization of both the sides and officers related to the Cross LOC trade.

            Mr. Rather hoped that the first ever perception survey on peace-building and economic potential of Cross LOC trade prepared by IRF will  provide a feed back to the concerned authorities on both sides of the LOC for removing all the impediments and bottle necks in the way of Cross LOC trade, adding that the State Government will provide every possible assistance in this regard. 

            The function was attended by a galaxy of economists, academicians, representatives of business chambers and key stake holders involved in the Cross LOC trade including President, Jammu and Kashmir Joint Chamber of Commerce, and Industry, Mr. Mubeen Shah, Prof Economics, VOSversity Of Jammu, Mr. Dipankar Sen Gupta, Former  Director General of Police, Mr. M.M Khajuria, Former Vice Chancellor, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah, VOSversity, Mr. Masud Choudhary, Director Indus Research Foundation, Zafar Choudhary, President, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu, Presidents of Industrial Associations of Bari-Brahmina, and Gangyal and Members of Civil Society .

Lakhs of devotees pay obeisance at Roza Sharief at Aishmuqam sacred cave

Longest procession of Zikre Qadmain & Zikre Charagan taken out at the Shrine till midnight

JAMMU, APRIL 07: From morning to midnight, on the occasion of Urs Sharief of Khawaja Zain-u-Din Wali (RA) at Aishmuqam, lakhs of devotees thronged on sacred mountain of Aishmuqam and offered Fatiha inside sacred cave where Roza Sharief of Hazrat Khawaja Zain-u-Din Shah Wali Sahib is present.

The people from all parts of Kashmir and Kishtwar had assembled in large number to pay obeisance to sufi saint who during his lifetime meditated and offered round the clock prayers at Aishmuqam. Even the King of the time was not given audience by the saint during his lifetime.

The Urs Sharief is marked with Zikre-e-Qadmain and Zikre-e-Charagan. The people of all the areas resort to illuminating wooden torches to remember the occasion when Hazrat Zain-u-Din Wali defeated forces of evil and darkness.

Vice Chairman Waqaf Board Jenab M. Y. Qadri, Director Information Kh. Renzushah, President of Intizamia Dr. A. R. Khadim, Sajada Nisheen Makhdoom Sahib, Jinab Shahid Jeelani, President Tujar Sharief Intizamia, Jinab Shah Sahib and renowned Ulemas, intellectuals and devotees joined after Nimaz historical and spiritual illumination ceremony and participated in spiritual procession of Zikre-e-Qadmain and Zikre-e-Charagan.

Earlier, during day time, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Kifayat Rizvi personally monitored the arrangements of Urs Sharief. This year arrangements made by Auqaf by construction of Ablution places, bathrooms and other arrangements have also received appreciation. The endeavours of Vice Chairman Auqaf Jinab M. Y. Qadri and President of Intizamia Mr. Khadim in developing the shrine sites have also received acclaim of the devotees.

Introduction of technology necessary for decreasing cost production in agriculture: Mir

Distributes awards among progressive farmers

            SRINAGAR, APRIL 07: To strengthening the economy of the farmers, Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir today said that Government’s thrust is to decrease the cost production in Agriculture and its allied sectors by way of introduction of quality hybrid seeds and technological innovations.

The Minister was addressing the farmers on 2^nd Award Ceremony function at SKICC, Srinagar this afternoon. On the occasion, 10 district level awards and 122 block level awards were distributed among the progressive farmers of the Valley by the Ministers.

            The Minister of State for Fisheries and Animal Husbandry, Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan and Minister of State for Agriculture, Mr. Javid Ahmad Dar also addressed the farmers.

The Minister said that “it is a great challenge for the government for decreasing cost production of Agriculture crops for which the Agriculture department and its allied sectors are working round the clock to motivate the farmers for introduction of latest technology in their farm fields for quality production and better yields”. He said in this direction the departments organise the Kissan and machine meals at block level to acquaint them about the objectives viz-i-viz its benefits.

Giving the examples of developed nations of the world, Mr. Mir said that these countries are advance in technology but still the people of these countries, continue agriculture as priority sector. “Instead of this the people of J&K shows least concern towards the agriculture, he added. He said “this trend have forced our  research scientist to  think  for introduction  of latest  technology and  use of quality hybrid seeds for increasing agriculture production besides  to provide better marketing opportVOSties to the farmers adding that this is the only way to  motivate the youth to opt it as profiting activity”.

Saying that farmers are the basic pillar of our economy, The Minister asked the extension departments of agriculture and VOSversity to work with great collaboration with respective departments to bring the research in the field.   He said that our researches should work for marginal farmers as the large chunk of our farmers have small land holdings. He said the present coalition government have given major thrust on Agriculture and its allied sectors for which farmers have been provided tax free fertiliser, pesticides, agriculture implements besides various state and centrally sponsored schemes were launched to benefit them.

Asking the farmers to go for diversification, the Minister said that “if the J&K have to achieve the target of self sufficiency, the diversification is its answer”. He said that farmers have to go for cash cropping in Kashmir valley as it has suitable climatic condition for saffron, vegetable and horticulture production and similarly the farmers of Jammu and Ladakh region have to opt the crops of their area.

Mr. Mir said that the objective of the holding award ceremony is to acknowledge contribution of progressive farmers in agriculture and its allied sectors. He said that with the efforts of Agriculture Ministry, the common man is sowing interest in agriculture.

            The Minister of State for Fisheries & Animal Husbandry, Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan today said that the nature has bestowed the State with all climatic conditions in three regions and we are able to cultivate every kind of crop in the State. He said to harness this potential, the farmers commVOSty has to opt agriculture on commercial lines to boost the economy of the State. He said besides agriculture the J&K has enormous potential in fish farming, sheep husbandry, poultry and dairy development. He said during last three years the youth of the State have shown encouraging trend towards fish farming on commercial lines. In this sector, Rs. 2 to 3 lakhs could earn the youth per annual on fish farming having one kanal of land available.

            Minister of State for Agriculture, Mr. Javid Ahmad Dar said that Government has taken several initiatives for the benefit of farmers. He asked the farmers to come forward and avail these benefits for boosting the agricultural activities in the State.

            In his welcome address, the Director Agriculture, Kashmir, Dr. Farooq A. Lone threw light about the achievements of the Department. He said that the department has taken every step to aware the farmers about latest technology besides facilitating them by way of providing quality seeds and other research knowhow about various crops at their doorsteps. He said the machine melas launched by the department at block level show great response from the farmers’ commVOSty across the Valley.

            The Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Director Horticulture, Kashmir, Director Command Area, Kashmir, Director Command Area, Jammu, Director Fisheries, Director Research SKUAST-K, Director Extension SKUAST-K and other field officers of various departments, progressive farmers were present on the occasion.  

Div Com participates in “Walk for Good Health” on World Health Day

         SRINAGAR, APRIL 07: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon participated in a “Walk for good health” from Nehru Park, today to commemorate World Health Day.

            The walk was organised by World Health Organisation in association with Valley Citizens Council. 7th April is celebrated every year as the World Health Day to mark the anniversary of the founding of World Health Organisation.

            World Health Day is a global campaign, to focus on health challenges.  The theme this year was “Ageing & Health-Good Health Adds Life to Years”. The focus is how good health throughout life can help elderly persons to lead full and productive life and be a resource for their families and commVOSties.

            Prominent among those who participated in the walk included famous poet Zareef Ahmed Zareef, Journalists Imdad Saqi, Sanjit Kaur, Syed Mubashir Rufai and Farooq Javed, President House Boat Owners Association, Mohammed Azim Tuman, President, KTMF, Jan Mohammed Kaul, prominent citizens A.M. Mir (Retd IAS) Executive Director, J&K Voluntary Health Association, President Shikara Association, Wali Mohammed, Er. Bashir Siraj, Mrs Siraj and representatives of Health Department & Helpage India. Many elderly persons, including youth and children also participated. Mementos and refreshments were given to the participants.

Aijaz distributes cheques worth Rs. 77 lakh among farmers

                SRINAGAR, APRIL 07: In order to boost fish farming in private sector and to create job opportVOSties among educated unemployed youth, the Minister of State for Fisheries, Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan said that the Government has taken various steps to privatize fish farming by way of providing full financial assistance to fish farmers for establishment their VOSts.

            The Minister was addressing a meeting convened to review the functioning of Fisheries department.

            The Minister said that for establishment of carp VOSts, the beneficiary is being provided financial assistance of Rs. 1.20 lakhs which include Rs. 85,000 for construction of pond and Rs. 35,000 for inputs in the shape of feed, seed and equipments. He said the beneficiary has to construct the pond himself thus creating job opportVOSties for the beneficiary.

            Similarly, for establishment of a Trout VOSt, Mr. Aijaz said that the beneficiary is provided with financial assistance of Rs. 2 lakhs per VOSt which includes Rs. 1.50 lakhs for construction of Raceway and Rs. 50,000 for inputs in the shape of feed, seed and equipments.

            The Minister said that in J&K, 941 VOSts have been established which include 189 trout and 752 carp. He said that in Kashmir division, 473 Fish rearing VOSts have been established private sector which comprises of 91 numbers of trout and 352 numbers of carp VOSts during 2010-11.

            Mr. Aijaz Khan said that during 2011-12, 53 numbers of trout rearing VOSts and 18 numbers of carp VOSts have been established at a cost of Rs. 127.6 lakhs by providing full assistance to the beneficiaries to construct the fish rearing VOSts in Kashmir Valley.

            Later, the Minister also distributed the 57 cheques worth Rs. 77 lakhs among the beneficiaries under various schemes.

            Later, the Commissioner/Secretary, Forests, Mr. Shantmanu through opens the Trout Sale Counter at Gagribal, Srinagar for the general public.

            Speaking on the occasion, Director Fisheries, Mr. Showkat Ali stressed upon the people to take the benefit of the schemes launched by the department for privatizing the fish farming. He said this sector has huge job potential for unemployed youth.

            Among others, Joint Director Fisheries, Mr F. A. Nawchoo and District level officers were also present on the occasion.  

KPL to be an annual feature,

Process for current year begins

Chib, Senior Officers of YSS, Army officers finalized arrangements

JAMMU, APRIL 07: After the successful completion of Kashmir Premier League (KPL) Tournament last year, preparations for convening KPL this year 2012 also were finalized today a a high level meeting chaired by Minister for Youth Services and Sports (YSS), Mr. R. S. Chib.

The Core Commander, General Husnain, Secretary Sports Mr. Vinod Koul and concerned officers were present in the meeting.

The meeting was informed that keeping in view the enthusiasm of youth and players, the competition of KPL will be held in all districts of Kashmir valley in two phases. The first phase will be completed by May 31, 2012 whereas the 2^nd phase shall be completed before July 20, 2012.

Eight teams will be selected for inter-district tournaments and all matches will be theme based events it was informed.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that it is very necessary that the talent of our youth is given a platform.

He said the Jammu Premier League is in progress adding that there are best indications that our youth are talented and possess qualities to prove their mettle in the field. He said 3-players who have been selected for training in the sports Academy is a matter of great pride for the state. He complimented general Husnain and his team for taking keen interest in promoting sports activities in the state. He said Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah, last year, after seeing success of the KPL had desired to make the tournament a permanent feature adding that process for this purpose has been started and arrangements finalized in today’s meeting in this regard. He hoped that the KPL will be played with much fervour and enthusiasm. He hoped that this year too, players would prove their talent and demonstrate their mettle in the field.

Mr. Chib said first prize for the KPL has been fixed as Rs 5 lakh for winning team, the 2^nd prize Rs 3 lakh and 3^rd prize Rs 2 lakh. This will also encourage maximum teams to participate in the tournament.

Markaz-i-Noor organizes Conference on Zen Shah Wali (RA) at Alsarwat School, Antg

Top level administrators, intellectuals, scholars, Ulemas participated in conference

JAMMU, APRIL 07: On the occasion of annual Urs of Hazrat Zen-ud-Din Wali (RA), a spiritual conference was organized at Alsharwat Higher Secondary School, Sarnal, Anantnag coinciding with the Urs of Hazrat Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA) at Aishmuqam.

Prominent among those, who participated in the conference included District Development Commissioner, Anantnag, Mr. Kifayat Rizvi, Director Information, Khawaja Farooq Renzushah, Deputy Inspector General of Police Anantnag, Mr. Shafqat Wtali, District Development Commissioner, Budgam Mr. Mohammad Rafi, Head, Markazi Nor, Sheikh-ul-Alam Chair, KashmirVOSversity, Mr. Bashar Bashir, Prominent Writers, G. N. Gowhar, Aziz Hajini, G. N. Atish, Journalists including Maqbool Veeri and Principal Alsarwat Higher Secondary School.

Speaking on the occasion, Kh. Renzushah called for propagating the teachings of sufi saints to restore the past glory of the valley called as Heaven on the Earth. He said Kashmir Valley is centre of Sufism and abode for seekers of mental peace and solace adding that it is a Ideal place for meditation and prayers.

He said teachings of sufi saints is relevant even in the preset day materialistic world to relieve the people of mental stress. He said teachings of Zen-ud-Din Wali (RA) about Sufism are all the more important for harmony and peace in the society.

Other speakers also highlighted different aspects of the life of sufi saint, Zen-ud-Din Wali  (RA) and its relevance in the present day life.

Zardari, with son, coming tomorrow; to hold talks with Manmohan

New Delhi, Apr 7 (VOS) Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari,
accompanied by a high-level delegation and close members of 
his family, including 24-year-old son Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, 
is arriving here tomorrow in the forenoon on a private visit which is increasingly acquiring the airs of a formal visit.
Besides, Interior Minister Rehman Malik, former chairman of Pakistani Senate Farooq H Naik and Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar are also expected to accompany the delegation, though her inclusion in Mr Zardari's delegation had not been officially confirmed so far. However, diplomatic sources here have not denied it either. They said there was a minute by minute change in the programme, so nothing definite could be said.
Pakistan Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir is also coming.
Mr Zardari, who will touch down here at 1100 hrs, will have lunch with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh before leaving for 
Ajmer where he would visit the shrine of revered Sufi saint
Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. He will fly to Jaipur before 
driving down to Ajmer.
He will remain in the Dargah for about 30 minutes.
High Government representatives from the Indian side 
who would be present during the lunch include External Affairs Minister SM Krishna, National Security Adviser Shiv Shankar Menon and Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai, and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Pawan Kumar Bansal, Ministry of External Affairs sources said.
Before the lunch, the two leaders would have a one-on-one meeting during which all major issues between the two countries were likely to come up for discussion.
This is the first visit by a Pakistan head of state
in the last seven years, and the two leaders don't want to miss the opportVOSty to further the agenda of continuing dialogue. 
The issues that could be raised of course include India's demand for bringing the culprits of Mumbai terror attack 
to book, which has been highlighted by the US announcing 
a bounty of 10 million dollars on Hafiz Saeed, the Jamat-ud-dawa chief and founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba said to have masterminded the 26/11 strike.
However, as Mr Krishna said the two leaders might not have time to go into the details of the issues they would discuss.
Mr Krishna had yesterday said India had provided detailed
evidence against Hafiz Saeed to Pakistan but Pakistan said no
adequate proof had been supplied by India.
MEA sources said there would be no delegation from the Indian side as there would be no delegation level talks, but only the meeting between the two leaders.