Yasin Malik appears before the enquiry commission in Pakistan.

Challenges Mansoor to prove his links with RAW, ISI.

 Srinagar, April 5 (VOS): Denying any  links with Indian or Pakistani Intelligence agencies, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik has said that if any such allegations were proved, against him, he will distance himself from the politics. Malik made the remarks during the  alleged Memo Scam hearing in front of an enwuiry commission set up to probe the matter  in Islamabad on Thursday.

 Rebutting the allegations of Akram Sheikh who was representing Mansoor AIjaz, the main witness in the case, Malik said, “Mansoor is lying and is deliberately defaming me.”Pleading his case before the commission comprising of Justice Qazi Faiz, Justice Mehar Alam and Justice Iqbal Hameed ur Rehman, Malik challenged Shaikh to prove  allegations against him.

Earlier Sheikh told commission that Malik had links with Indian intelligence agency RAW and had met its former chief .Sheikh also alleged that during one  meeting Malik and Mansoor had some serious spat and heated arguments also. However  reports suggest that Sheikh was warned by Justice Qazi  who while intervening asked Shaikh to desist from making base less allegations against Malik.

 Meanwhile talking to VOS over phone from Islamabad (Pakistan), Mohammad Yasin Malik said that he rejected the allegations leveled by Mansoor Aijaz’s lawyer Akram Sheikh on him. “ I made it clear to sheikh in front of the commission that I had not come on the instruction of ISI to Pakistan.”  asserted Malik. The commission had summoned former ISI chief Ltd Gen. (Rtrd.) Shuja Pasha also.

Salman Khan Mesmerized by the Beauty of Kashmir,

Wants to have frequent visits to Valley.

Srinagar, April 5 (VOS):The Kashmir tourism  has found a timely and effective friend s  in bollywood  as after amir khan  visited Kashmir  it was rahul  dholakia and now  the  famous actor salmaan khan who has praise dkashmir and declared  it the most beautiful  destination  in the world  and has said that Kashmir has no parallel in the  and has spoken these words in a recently organized function in Mumbai . director tourism Farooq  A Shah while appreciating this statement  from the bolywood icon  has said that bollywood shoud decide now to use kashmirs natural sets to shoot its flicks and films  as salmaan khaahas obiviously  become now the most effective  ambassador of Kashmir  and  the directors ,producers of bollywood  shoukd divert to  our beautiful state of jammu

Kashmir and ladakh  as our state  offers  diverse  tourist attractions which are best and unique  we have mesmerizing landscapes,beautiful snowcapped mountains, serene waterbodies,wild life ,angling streams  and springs,world class golf  turfs,ideal mice locations for the conferences and events ,high altitude adventure  and trekking  patchs, worlds highest gondola and skiing slopes, the cold desert, the tempe city of jammu the holy heritage  in shrines and temples  so bollywood  has natural sets and floor to come and shoot here and  above all the friendly and hospitable people !

Cabinet Reshufle demand picks momentum again.

Congress leaders to approach High Command soon.

Srinagar, April 5 (VOS): With budget session of the legislative assembly having been adjourned sine- die on Wednesday , rumors of the much awaited cabinet reshuffle have again started doing rounds in the secretariat corridors and political circles in the state. Sources told VOS that various state congress leaders have again approached New Delhi to press for an expansion and reshuffle in the cabinet led by Omar Abdullah. “Now when the session is over there must be a cabinet expansion which is overdue since a long time.” A congress MLA told VOS wishing anonymity.

Pertinently congress has three and National conference one vacancy left in the NC-Congress alliance cabinet.

Meanwhile if sources are to believed, pressure is mounting on congress high command for inclusion of  MLA’s from Doda, the home district of Former Chief Minster and union Health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad in the cabinet. Sources added that congress had won 5 out of 6  seats it had contested  in 2008 elections in the erstwhile Doda district. However they regretted that despite such a huge public support the area was not given any representation in the cabinet. “Our voters are annoyed with us for not getting a representation in the cabinet, and are asking us to rethink over our future.” a senior congress leader and MLA  told VOS wishing not to be named.

“ we are feeling now the heat from public who have  began raising fingers against the discrimination  with Doda .” another MLA and congress leader from the area told VOS.

 “ Union Minster Ghulam Nabi Azad also during his recent visit to Jammu and Srinagar met various congress leaders where he was stressed upon to convince the high command for the reshuffle.” Sources added.

This is not for the first time that the demand for cabinet reshuffle has picked up momentum. Last year also both National Conference and Congress leaders had demanded a cabinet expansion, but now sources say, that the expansion and reshuffle has become imperative in wake of two important portfolios of R&B and Education in the congress kitty having fallen to Chief Minster’s lap.

R&B ministry was held by G.M Saroori who had to quit the cabinet following the allegations of helping his daughter illegally in the entrance test, whereas the Education portfolio was with Peerzada Mohammad Syed who had to surrender the ministry on the allegation of helping his foster son passing the 10^th class examination in 2008. PeerZada however continues to be minster of Public Enterprises in the cabinet.

However the problem seems to be equally painful for the National Conference also with some of its senior leaders lobbying for their passage to the lone vacancy in the cabinet. Sources told VOS that it would be a very tough call for National Conference to choose a new entrant in the cabinet as the stake holders for the lone vacancy include some stalwarts like Chudary Mohammad Ramza, Mir Saifullah, Dr. Mustafa Kamal, Sajad Ahmad Kichloo . “Dr. Farooq Abdullah had told in the core group meeting that some senior ministers need to work for the party now.” A senior leader of NC told VOS, adding that senior Abdullah was also in favor of giving others a chance to deliver in the government.

VOS however when contacted state Congress Chief Prof. Saif u din Soz for his comments, he declined to have any such knowledge. “ I don’t know anything about it.” Told Soz.

Don’t take kashmirs for granted : Geelani to india, Pak.

Dares Zardari to show solidarity with Kashmir in New Delhi.

Srinagar, April 5 (VOS) : Hurriyat Conference (G) Chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani has warned India and Pakistan to desist from reaching to any consensus on Kashmir issue that was against the aspirations of Kahmiri people. Terming Pakistan President Asif Ali zardari’s scheduled India visit an outcome of New Dehli’s growing pressure on Pakistani leadership, Geelani vowed that Kashmiris would continue to strive for their right.

After making first public appearance since his return from New Dlhi, Geelani while addressing  public gatherings at Hajin and Sopore in north Kashmir on Thursday castigated Pakistan for granting MFN status to India and said, that it was akin to rubbing the wounds with salt. “Pakistan is an important stake holder in Kashmir dispute. It has always supported kashmi cause and its youth have shed their blood for kashmirs.”  Asserted Geelani, suggesting that Zardari should tell New Delhi during his forthcoming visit that, Kashmir was a ‘core issue’ between the two countries and without solving it one could not expect South Asia free of trouble and instability.

In a statement to VOS, the 82 year old Separatist made it clear that ‘statuesque’ was never a solution to Kashmir problem and warned that any solution of such kind would be opposed tooth and nail.

Reiterating his appeal for boycott to forthcoming Municipal Polls, Geelani asked people to remain away from voting and said that New Delhi was using the elections for its own benefit at international forums. “Casting vote in such elections would amount to treason and betrayal with those who spilled their blood for the movement.”  Geelani was quoted by his spokesman as having said.

Terming ‘Land Grants’ bill a ‘gift’ to Kashmiris by Late Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, Geelani said that it was late Abdullah who had leased the land to Army for 90 years and now the army was not only taking control of more and more land but also ‘destroying’ the forests.

Meanwhile Syed Ali Shah Geelani paid his condolences to Mehraj U din Hajam at Shah Gund and Sajad Ahmad Dar of Sopore. He was accompanied by other colleagues.

Mirwaiz, Malik, shah, JI and othrs condole Wani’s demise,

Rasm e Charum to be observed on Saturday at Sonawar.

Srinagar, April 5 (VOS): Various religious, social, political and other organizations have condoled the demise of prominent Journalist Izhar  Wani  who passed away on Wednesday in Soura medical institute where he was being treated for cancer. 

Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq while condoling the demise of the veteran Journalist said, “Despite being so young Wani was a mature and seasoned journalist and writer.”In a statement to VOS, Mirwaiz expressed his solidarity with the bereaved family.

Meanwhile Jammu and Kashmir liberation front chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik also expressed his deep shock over the death of Izhar  wani. Calling wani’s death as irreparable loss to the Kashmiri nation, Malik said that despite being associated with a reputed international news agency, wani lived a very simple life. “ He was like a beacon light for our future generations.” Malik told in an emailed statement from Pakistan. Senior separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah and Jamat e islami also condoled  the demise of  Wani. A condolence meeting was held in the public relations office of Kashmir University to pay tributes to Izhar.

A condolence meeting was held on Thursday at Kashmir News Service  (VOS)Office Srinagar in which rich tributes were paid to the departed journalist.

Meanwhile Rasm e Charum of  wani will be observed on Saturday  at his Sonawar residence after which a condolence meeting is also scheduled  at zaferan Colony sampora Pampore .

Anil Ambani in Valley,

Likely to offer jobs for Kashmir youth.

Srinagar, April 5 (VOS): Days After Home Minster P. Chidambaram launched “ Udaan” project for Kashmiri Youth,  renowned Indian industrialist and chairman of Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani, Anil Ambani on Thursday arrived in Srinagar for talent hunt. Sources told VOS that Ambani is likely to handover the job offers to at least 100 youth who have got degrees in computer applications and other industry related subjects.  Ambani will be staying in the valley for next three days during which he is likely to meet

Chief Minster Omar Abdullah. “Anil Ambani is very keen to engage the kashmiri youth in his multi national companies and he is likely to handover the offer letters to at least 100 youth.” Sources told VOS. They added that during his three day stay in valley, the reliance chief is expected to hold business meetings with business unit holders and chambers. He is also scheduled to meet Chief Minster Omar Abdullah possibly  to chalk out the strategy for engaging the kashmiri youth in his companies. However a senior Minster in the state government revealed that Ambani was not on official tour to valley .

Mean while former president Chamber and commerce Industries shakeel qalander told VOS that accommodating kashmiri Youth in Reliance Industries would boost not only the moral of the youth but also will Pave way for other industries to follow the same line

Zero Bridge being upgraded to motor way

Protection, conservation work in progress

             Srinagar, April 05 – In compliance of the directions of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah for preservation of old and heritage bridges, the JKPCC has launched protection and conservation of Zero Bridge in Srinagar to upgraded it to a motorable bridge.

            The Managing Director, Jammu and Kashmir Project Construction Corporation (JKPCC), Madan Gupta said today that the Zero Bridge which was declared unsafe for plying of vehicles is being strengthened and upgraded to a motorable bridge. He said that the protection and upgradation work of the bridge has been started and it is likely to be completed within the shortest possible time. He said the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah has given directions to the JKPCC to take all measures to protect and safeguard old and heritage bridges.

            Gupta said that a new Zero Bridge will be constructed on Jehlum River at an alternate feasible site in the area for which necessary preparation is in progress. He said a scheme for the same has been approved involving Rs. 9 crores.

            Gupta said that the Chief Minister had directed for taking measures to restore and strengthen the unsafe Zero Bridge to extend its life. He had also directed for adding footpath to the existing bridge. “Accordingly a scheme was approved for strengthening and rehabilitating the old iconic Zero Bridge at a cost of Rs. 2.3 crores”, he said adding that the work has been initiated under this scheme.

            Gupta said that JKPCC is also rehabilitating and strengthening Zaina Kadal Heritage Bridge in Srinagar city at a cost of Rs. 2.50 crores. 

Comprehensive plan formulated for PDD restructuring: Panday

Inspects Rs. 4 cr Data Centre at Bemina,

                SRINAGAR, APRIL 05: Commissioner-Secretary Power Development Department, Mr. Sudhanshu Panday inspected under construction Data Cum Customer Care Centre of Electric Department, coming up at a cost of Rs. 4 crore at Bemina, Srinagar today.

            The Commissioner-Secretary was briefed about the different dimensions of the project. He was informed that Rs. One crore has been spent on the project so far.

            Mr. Panday directed the concerned executing agency to ensure completion of the building by June 2012 by working in three shifts under Fast Track Programme. He also directed concerned engineers to fix time line for procurement of necessary equipment so that its placement is ensured within the stipulated timeframe.

            Later, the Commissioner/Secretary convened a meeting of senior engineers and reviewed the pace of progress of various ongoing schemes of PDD and its sister concerns.

            The Development Commissioner Power, J&K, Er. Manzoor Ahmad Salroo, Chief Engineer Systems & Operations, Kashmir, Er. Gul Ayaz, Chief Engineer Generation Kashmir, Er. C. Durjay, Chief Engineer EM & RE, Er. Muzaffar Mattoo, Joint Director Information, Kashmir, Mr. Itrat Hussain Rafiquee, Superintending Engineers of Kashmir Valley and other concerned officers were present on the occasion.

            The Commissioner was informed that as many as 28 different projects have been taken up by the PDD under Prime Minister’s Reconstruction Plan at a cost of Rs. 709 crores, out of which Rs. 547 crore have been spent till now.

            Referring to the physical achievements, the Commissioner was informed that 9 grid stations and 8 projects of transmission lines have been completed while as work on remaining 3 grid stations is apace.

            Reviewing the progress achieved under centrally sponsored RGGVY, the meeting was informed that 248 habitations have been electrified while electrification of 225 habitations is under progress in Anantnag, Pulwama, Baramulla and Kupwara districts.

            Referring to the revenue realization during last 2 years, it was informed that Rs. 475 crores have been collected as power tariff in Kashmir division during 2011-12 as against Rs. 363 crore during 2010-11.

            Addressing the meeting, the Commissioner/Secretary urged the officers to gear up for reorganization of the Power Development Department. He said that the Government has formulated a comprehensive plan for restructuring the Department on modern lines which is being executed soon. He said that the Government is making efforts to improve the working conditions and address the grievances of the functionaries of the Department who simultaneously need to be more accountable.

            Mr. Panday said that one lakh meters are being installed during current financial year. He said Rs. one crore each for Kashmir and Jammu division will be earmarked for installation of cables where power theft is being noticed. He said that all projects coming up under PMRP and RGGVY would be completed by the end of this fiscal.  

SMC launches demolition drive in city

            SRINAGAR, APRIL 05: A team of Enforcement Wing of Srinagar Municipal Corporation led by Chief Enforcement Officer, Srinagar launched a massive demolition drive and anti encroachment drive in Srinagar city.

            The team demolished unauthorized constructions in Habba Kadal, Parimpora, Humhama, Rawalpora and Samandar Bagh today. A shop being run in green belt area of Cheshmashahi was also sealed. Besides to regulate vehicular traffic in the city, the team seized various articles put to display at footpaths and road sides by the shop owners. The shop owners were asked not to put their merchandize on display on road sides.

DDC review Darbar Move arrangements

                SRINAGAR, APRIL 05: A meeting of senior district officers was held here today to review the Darbar Move arrangements under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. Baseer Ahmad Khan.

            The meeting reviewed the arrangements put in place for reducing traffic pressure on city roads and ensuring sanitation on all city roads.

            The CA&PD authorities were asked to set up sales depots near the residential quarters of the darbar move employees while the PDD authorities were asked to arrange for round the clock electricity to the residential quarters. The PHE department was directed to provide safe drinking water facility to the move employees.

            The DDC Srinagar asked the SMC authorities to remove all illegal structures which have come up in the city. The Road Transport Corporation authorities were asked to make adequate transport arrangements for the employees. Mr. Baseer Khan asked the Health department to set up a dispensary in the secretariat premises.

            The meeting was attended by SSP Srinagar, SP Security, RTO Kashmir, Joint Commissioner SMC, SP Traffic Srinagar, SE’s of PWD, PHE, PDD and other senior officers.

Extension lecture on “Aerosols and their role in Climatic Studies” held

JAMMU, APRIL 05- An extension lecture was organised by the ‘Eco Club’ of the Department of Environmental Sciences, Govt. M A M College, Jammu in which Prof (Dr.) Rakesh Kumar Atri, Deptt. of Environmental Sciences, University of Jammu was the resource person.

Prof (Dr.) Ajeet Angral, Principal of the College welcomed the resource person and appreciated the efforts of the ‘Eco- Club’ of the Deptt. of environmental Sciences of College for innovative programme. Dr. Angral advised the students to get maximum benefit from the extension lecture.

While presenting his extension lecture, Prof. R.K. Atri discussed about various aspects of environment such as climate, aerosols, causes of climatic change and role of black carbon aerosols in particular. The extension lecture was followed by the interactive session in which the students / the members of the ‘Eco-Club’ got answers about their querries from the resource person.

The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Prof.(Dr.) Mosmi Raina, H.O.D. Environmental Sciences of the College while vote of thanks was presented by Prof. Surat Singh, senior faculty member of the department.

Others who were present on the occasion were Prof. Rakesh Gupta, Prof Muzzammal Hussain, Prof Minakshi khajuria and Mr Arjun Rathore.