THE DAILY VOICE OF SRINAGAR
SRINAGAR, TUESDAY, 07 RAJAB 1433 AH ; 29 MAY 2012
Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com
NEWS
Omar underlines
balance in credit flow, deposits ratios: Omar
Asks Bankers to
focus on traditional economy driving sectors
Rather emphasizes
on achieving national benchmark in advances
SRINAGAR, MAY
28 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Monday asked the Bankers to strike
balance in the credit flow and the deposits ratio to ensure focused attention
on priority sectors like agriculture, MSME, handicrafts, education,
entrepreneurship development and micro credit to give considerable fillip to
the traditional drivers of State’s economy.
Addressing
the 85th meeting of Jammu and Kashmir State Level Bankers’
Committee (SLBC) here this morning, the Chief Minister said that the growth
registered in the deposits should necessarily reflect its positive impact on
the credit flow to ensure benefits to the people especially in the priority
sector.
“When
there will be gap between deposits accumulation and credit flow then an
important question arises for bankers to explain. It is also difficult for the
government and the people to understand this hiatus in the process of normal
banking procedure and practice”, he said adding that the flight of economy need
to be checked by ensuring investment of deposits within the State itself in
consonance with the targets fixed at SLBC for lending of money to people in the
State.
Making
reference to the issuance of Kissan Credit Cards to the farmers, Omar Abdullah
said that noteworthy achievement has not been registered on this significant
front which directly relates to the State’s agriculture economy and the welfare
of peasant fraternity. He fixed the target of first week of October 2012 for
the Banks to fulfil hundred percent achievement in the issuance of Kissan
Credit Cards to farmers so that they avail the opportunity of taking loans for
agriculture operations.
“You
should constitute Sub-Committees to monitor this aspect and the aspect of
lending loans to the priority sectors in a hassle-free manner”, he said and
also directed for identifying zonal level nodal banks for ensuring issuance of
Kissan Credit Cards to the farmers. He said artisans, small entrepreneurs and
others in education, micro credit, employment generation and agro allied sectors
should be focused in lending loans to them to flourish their economy.
Citing
the case of importance of providing finances to the people associated with
tourism, Omar Abdullah said that the growth of this sector and the necessity of
help for its development can be underlined by the fact that as against 1.4 lakh
visitors visiting the valley during the last year so far, figure this year has
touched to over 4 lakhs in the same period. “Banks have to play their part in
helping the traders in this field to develop befitting infrastructure and
transport facilities. You can advance loans for tourist vehicles, buses and
other transport in this sector also”, he added.
Describing
handicrafts, tourism, agriculture, horticulture and allied sectors as
traditional economy drivers in the State, Omar Abdullah said that proper credit
flow to these sectors should be the focused area of Bankers. He said that
credit flow from Banks to the housing sector, which has shown remarkable growth
during past some years, should not be at the cost of other priority sectors.
“You cannot create priority within the priority sector”, he said stressing on
full target achievement in the priority sector taking care of all fields
identify under this sector.
The
Chief Minister also talked about incorporation of modern system of electronic
transfer of benefits to the people down below. He said under MGNREGA government
is launching a pilot project of transferring benefits to the beneficiaries in
10 districts which will be expanded to other districts gradually. He asked the
Banks to look into this initiative and work out a feasible strategy.
“In
order to achieve the targets full and reach out to the people extensively in
the priority sector, I would like you to revisit your credit plan and reorient
it in accordance with the requirements of people and the sectors identified as
important in the economy of the State”, he said adding that Reserve Bank of
India (RBI) should introduce a system of penalizing those banks which show
shortfalls in registering targets they agree and commit to fulfil in SLBC
meetings.
Speaking
on the occasion, Minister for Finance, Abdul Rahim Rather said that while State
Government is committed to render all help to the Bankers for their growth,
development and security of assets, it at the same time expects the Banks to
deliver conspicuously on the front of credit flow.
“We
observe remarkable growth of the deposits in the Banks but the flow of credit
has shown decline”, he said adding that this is the area of concern and Bankers
have to focus on this issue. He told them to adhere to the targets fixed in
SLBCs and come up to the commitments made to people.
Mr.
Rather said that in a State like Jammu and Kashmir where resources are meagre
and dependence of credit flow is mostly on Banks, the Bankers have to rise to
the occasion and help give necessary fillip to the economy especially in
agriculture and allied sectors identified as priority area in credit flow.
The
Minister also impressed upon the bankers to work for achieving the national
benchmark of 18 percent of the total credit for agriculture sector. “This is
imperative to give boost to the rural economy”, he said and stressed on achieving
the flow of lending money to the agriculture sector as per the targets fixed.
Mr.
Rather also talked about huge finances advanced in the housing sector and said
that this should not be done at the cost of other priority sectors like agriculture.
He also negated the system of creating priority within the priority sector
underlining the need for ensuring achievement of targets in all fields of
priority sectors to the full.
The
Minister said that the national target of 18 percent credit flow to agriculture
sector out of the overall advances percentage should be adhered to and ensured
that this national benchmark is achieved satisfactory. He said though there is
some increase observed on advances made in the agriculture sector yet the pace
is not as fast as is expected. He stressed on proper focusing in this area.
The
meeting was participated by Chief Secretary, Madhav Lal, Principal Secretary
Finance, M. Iqbal Khandey, Principal Secretary Planning and Development, B. B.
Vyas, Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Mushtaq Ahmad, Director Finances in
Union Ministry of Finance, Regional Director of RBI, CGM, NABARD, various
Principal Secretaries, Commissioner Secretaries, Heads of the Departments and
Bankers operating in Jammu and Kashmir.
Malik releases
‘Alamdar’ Journal at Amar Singh College
Appreciates
Markaz-i-Noor for propagating message of peace
SRINAGAR, MAY 28:
Minister for Higher Education, Labour and Employment Mr. Abdul Gani Malik today
said that the contribution of Sheikh-ul-Alam chair of University of Kashmir in
propagating the message of peace and love of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (RA) is commendable
and the chair deserves appreciation and support from the government as well as
literal and social organization.
The Minister was
addressing an impressive function at Amar Singh College, held in connection
with comprehensive lecture on “Sheikh-ul-Alam Ka Nazaray-e-Hayat Aur Kashmir Ki
Maishat” organized by Sheikh-ul-Alam Chair of Kashmir University in
collaboration with Amar Singh College, Srinagar.
Saluting the great
saint of soil, the Minister impressed upon all to adhere strictly to the
principles cherished by the saint and live a life of prosperity and progress in
the light of guidance and preaching’s of Sheikh Sahib.
Calling the
event a great success and a milestone for new generation Mr. Malik suggested
Markaz-i-Noor to organize more and more such functions in different areas of
the state to make people aware of philosophy of Sufism, simple living and high
thinking.
Quoting a verse of
Sheikh-ul-Alam, “Ann Poshi Teli Yeli Wan Poshi”, the Minister said that we must
plant more and more trees and bring a halt on deforestation so that the
environment is saved from imbalance and benefit of forests is assured to a
common man.
Hoping for leaving a
healthy impact on the mindset of people especially on new generation, Mr. Malik
said that the today’s topic chosen by Sheikh-ul-Alam chair has a great
relevance with modern trends of living and will make us learn a lot about
maintenance of sound economy in the state.
The Minister released
6th edition of Journal ‘Alamdar’ on the
occasion prepared under the supervision of Director, Markazi-Noor, Prof. Bashr
Bashir.
Earlier, Principal,
Amar Singh College, Prof. Zahoor Chatt while welcoming the dignitaries
expressed his happiness for hosting a seminar on Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA) and said
that the event will usher peace and tranquility and also will prove
instrumental in making students aware about the teachings of great saints like
Sheikh-ul-Alam.
Director,
Markazi-Noor, Prof. Bashr Bashir in his address reminded of the days when he
was a faculty member of Amar Singh College and produced a healthy lot of
students for making society academically and morally rich.
He said that besides
organizing this event, Markaz-i-Noor has done tremendous job in propagating
great saints’, literature in length and breadth of the state. He said that
function on ‘Tasawaf’ at Zainshah Sahib, Tappar, Banihal, Rohmu Pulwama and
many other programmes were held during last financial year. Besides, at Kashmir
University level, a discussion on Sheikh-ul-Alam and Biodiversity was held in
Botany Department, Sheikh-ul-Alam and social justice in Law Department and
Relevance of Sheikh-ul-Alam message were deliberated at Kulgam, birthplace of
Sheikh-ul-Alam and Chrar-i-Sharief.
He said,
Markaz-i-Noor also released a film ‘Shrove’, highlighting the teachings of
great saint.
Noted economist and
well known trade union leader, Shakeel Qalandar in his address impressed upon
one and all to observe austerity and avoid wastage of food, clothing and other
amenities, as preached by Sheikh-ul-Alam. He said that healthy living is only
possible when we avoid ‘show business’, in marriages and other community
programmes. Saying that curtailment of our expenditures is need of hour, Mr.
Qalandar said that poor and downtrodden families could be made financially
sound when we save our money and distribute among deserving ones.
Referring to the
topic, Mr. Qalandar said that economy can be made sound and trade deficit could
be reduced through prospective entrepreneurship.
He also appealed for
plantation of more and more saplings on available land area so that threat of
environmental degradation is avoided and food is made available for all living
organisms.
Energy generation,
development of TS should go together: Omar
Dr. Farooq assures
full support in renewable energy development programme
SRINAGAR,
MAY 28 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Monday highlighted the importance
of harnessing new and renewable energy potential of the State to accommodate
the electricity needs in remote and far-flung areas emphasizing on installation
of adequate Transmission System (TS) to extract and distribute power. He said
the help extended by the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy to the
State be taken best advantage of in this regard to benefit the people.
The
Chief Minister and Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Dr. Farooq
Abdullah today chaired a high level meeting to review the renewable energy
programmes under implementation in the State after they inaugurating a Solar
Power Plant for the Library at the Old Assembly Complex, Srinagar.
Omar
Abdullah said that installation of transmission lines to extract power from the
generation projects constitute important aspect for distribution of energy as
such needs equal thrust with launch of power projects.
The
Chief Minister also underlined capacity building and proper training at the
local level relating to the use and maintenance of new and renewable energy
gadgets. He said that such training should be imparted at ITI level. “To start
with ITIs at Kishtwar, Bandipora and Kutha should be identified for capacity
building under new and renewable energy development programme”, he added and
also highlighted the need for a joint workshop by the Science and Technology
and Tourism Departments to create wider awareness in the tourism sector
regarding utilization of solar energy for heating and other uses in hotel and
houseboat industry.
“I
am of the opinion that Panchayat Raj Institutions should be involved in the
process of launching new and renewable energy projects and creating sense of
ownership in them about these projects. They can manage these units, supply energy
and obtain revenue, and utilize a portion of it for the development of the area
they represent”, he said asking for working out a module for this purpose.
The
Chief Minister asked the Union MNRE to help the universities of Jammu and Kashmir
to install solar water heating systems at their various campuses. He referred
to a proposal put forth by the Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University to MNRE for
this purpose and said that other universities should also be brought under a
comprehensive programme for utilizing solar energy for water heating purpose.
Addressing
the meeting Dr. Farooq Abdullah asked the State Science and Technology
Department to put in place a well planned monitoring and inspecting system to
ascertain the functional status of schemes launched under new and renewable
energy development programme in the State by MNRE. “We want a regular report
from the State regarding the functional of these projects to be abreast with
facts and figures”, he said adding that this was essentially needed to ensure
the proper functioning and maintenance of these projects.
The
Union Minster said that the huge potential of wind energy available in Ladakh
and other areas need to be harnessed in right direction assuring full support
of the Centre Government in this regard. He said that MNRE has sanctioned
various schemes for the State and many more are in the pipeline. “You should
take best advantage of the help available to you from this Ministry in the
Sector of power generation from non-conventional energy resources”, he said
adding that wherever required Union Government would extend you help to remodel
and upgrade the micro hydel power projects.
Dr.
Farooq Abdullah said that the main aim of the schemes under MNRE is to reach
out people for energy supply in the areas where there is no power supply or
transmission lines are in the process of installation. He said that population
of Gujjar and Bakerwal alongwith migratory nomads and those living in upper
reaches should be focused for providing solar lights. He said the lights
sanctioned by MNRE should be so distributed as would ensure maximum benefits to
the poor people.
The
meeting was attended by Minister for Science and Technology, Aga Syed Ruhulla,
Minister of State for Science and Technology, Manohar Lal, Chief Secretary,
Madhav Lal, Union Secretary MNRE, G. B. Pradhan, Principal Secretary to the
Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas, Principal Secretary Power Development Department,
Sudhanshu Pandey, Union Joint Secretaries, Alok Srivastav and T. Kapoor,
Advisor MNRE, Dr. N. P. Singh, Managing Director JKSPDC, Basharat Ahmad Dhar,
Secretary Science and Technology, M. Ashraf Bukhari and other senior officers.
In
the PowerPoint presentations Managing Director, JKSPDC, Basharat Ahmad Dhar
said that MNRE has sanctioned two projects of Dah and Hanu in Ladakh
sanctioning Rs. 9 crores for each project. He said the projects are being
awarded within a month’s time and are targeted to be completed in 48 months. He
said 1.5 MW 3rd Unit for Pahalgam HEP has been submitted to the
Union Ministry for approval.
He
said 6 projects of 22.6 MW Upper Sind-I, 15 MW Ganderbal, 23.3 MW Chenani, 0.4
MW Hunder, 0.3 MW Bazgoo and 0.1 MW Sumoor have been approved by MNRE but the
formal sanction has been communicated for Ganderbal project only. He called for
early issuance of formal sanction for other five projects.
Basharat
Ahmad Dhar also talked about the status of first ever geothermal project coming
up at Pugah in Ladakh adding that both the two phases for the project will be
funded by MNRE.
In
his PowerPoint presentation, the Secretary Science and Technology, Mohammad
Ashraf Bukhari said that MNRE has sanctioned solar power plants for 69 health
institutions in the State with total capacity of 1090 Kws involving an
expenditure of Rs. 32.70 crores. He said that rate contract has been finalized
for 32 sites and tendering for rest is in progress.
He
said that MNRE has sanctioned 50377 solar home lighting system for 225
un-electrified villages and hamlets in the State besides 20000 lights for
leftover households of Gurez and about 1000 lights for Marwah area.
The
State senior secretaries and Union secretaries in MNRE had a detailed meeting
in the morning to carve out a programme for MNRE schemes to be launched in the
State during 2012-13.
Governor greets
people on Khirbhawani Mela
SRINAGAR, MAY 28 –
Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, has felicitated the people on the eve of Khirbhawani
Mela and prayed for sustained peace, amity, progress and prosperity in the
State.
In his message of
greetings, the Governor observed that the Festival is a shining example of
communal harmony and brotherhood, which are the hallmark of the glorious
pluralistic ethos of Jammu and Kashmir for centuries past.
The Governor, on this
occasion, prayed for the well-being of the people of the State.
Omar felicitates Kashmiri Pandits on Mela Kheer Bhawani
Wishes happy Zestha Ashtami to people
SRINAGAR, May 28 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today felicitated
Kashmiri Pandits on Zestha Ashtami being celebrated as Mela Kheer Bhawani in
the Valley.
In
his felicitation message, the Chief Minister wished people well-being and
prayed for peace and development of the State.
Attention Hajj
pilgrims of 2012
SRINAGAR,
MAY 28: According to the Executive Officer, J&K State Hajj Committee,
Srinagar all those pilgrims who fall under reserved category for Hajj-2012 are
informed to submit their International Passports alongwith two copies of
Photograph in Hajj House, Bemina from June 01 to June 10, 2012.
Sham inaugurates
3-day training programme on Food Safety & Standards
SRINAGAR, MAY
28: Minister for Health, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma inaugurated a 3-day training
programme (May 28-30) for the Designated Officers and Adjudicating Officers
(Additional Deputy Commissioners) to ensure strict implementation of Food
Safety and Standards Act in Jammu and Kashmir at the Institute of Hotel
Management at Raj Bagh, here today.
The training
programme has been organized by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of
India (FSSAI) in collaboration with the State Food Safety Organization. The
objective of organizing the training programme is to hone the skill of all the
functionaries responsible for implementation of Food Safety and Standards Act
and to ensure quality food articles in the State. The training is a statutory
for the Designated and Adjudicating Officers under the Food Safety and
Standards Act 2006, which is applicable in the State from 2011.
Minister of State for
Health & Medical Education, Mr. Javed Ahmed Dar, Commissioner Food Safety,
J&K Mr. Satish Gupta, Deputy Commissioners Food Safety, Kashmir, Jammu, Mr.
Nazir Ahmed, Ms. Lotika Khajuria, Project Director, J&K AIDS Control
Society, Dr. Rakesh Khajuria, Director Horticulture (Planning & Marketing),
Dr. M.S.Sood, Food Safety Officers of all the districts of the State, health
officers, SMC/JMC and other functionaries associated with the Food Safety in
the State were present on the occasion.
Speaking on the
occasion, the Minister said that making laws is not the solution, but their
proper implementation on the ground is the big challenge. He stressed the need
for launching a massive awareness campaign to educate the general masses at
different level about the food safety and preventive measures about various
diseases due to our day to day eating habits. He emphasized the need for
coordinated efforts with the active involvement of various organizations, like
educational institutions, health department, NGOs, Panchayat institutions,
media and other stake holders to change the mindset of people and to generate
awareness about the safe food for human consumption in the state.
Describing
adulteration as the biggest crime; the Minister said that all those indulging
in the adulteration and selling sub-standard food articles need to be punished
strictly so that a message was spread in the society about this heinous
crime. He said quality food is the fundamental right of every citizen and all
out efforts will be made to ensure it. He asked the Designated Authorities to
work with missionary approach to deal with this human issue.
Acknowledging the
efforts of the newly established Food Safety Organization for initiating
positive steps to deal with the situation, the Minister said that Government
would strengthen the infrastructure to make the functioning of the organization
more vibrant and result oriented. He said that Government has already
formulated a blueprint to augment the functioning of the organization according
to the requirements. He asked the participants to take advantage of the event
and percolate their experience on ground. He hoped that the event will prove
useful for all and help them upgrading their knowledge on the subject. He also
thanked the resource persons/trainers for their initiative for the noble cause.
Mr. Javed Dar asked
the participants to enforce the new Food Safety Act in letter and spirit to
ensure good quality food articles to the people. He stressed for organizing
such training programmes in future also to update the knowledge of the
officials. He admitted paucity of manpower in the Food Safety Organization and
assured that necessary measures would be taken to overcome this problem soon.
He also insisted for coordinated efforts to achieve the desired goals.
State Food Safety
Commissioner, Mr. Satish Gupta gave resume of the overall scenario in the State
and initiatives taken by the Organization to deal with the situation. He said
the training will help all the functionaries to update their knowledge and
discharging their duties efficiently. He assured that the existing laws will be
enforced in letter and spirit and all out efforts will be made to provide safe
food articles to the people of the State.
He said that during
the 3-day training programme, the trainers will touch all aspects connected
with the food safety and scope of the existing Act to deal with various issues.
They will address the queries of the participants on the subject.
Chairman, LC
nominates members to various committees
SRINAGAR, MAY
28: Chairman Legislative Council, Mr. Amrit Malhotra today
nominates various Committees for the current
financial year.
In the
Industries and Commerce, Forest, Hospitality and Protocol, Tourism, Power,
Science & Technology and Information Technology Departmental Committee Mr.
Ravinder Kumar Sharma would be the chairman and the members are Mr. Jahangir
Hussain Mir, Syed Mohammad Rafiq Shah, Mr. B. R. Kundal, Mr. Bashir Ahmad
Magray and S. Dharambir Singh Oberio.
In the Health &
Medical Education, Social Welfare, Ladakh Affairs, Transport, Haj and Aquaf and
CAPD Departmental Committee, Mr. Khalid Najib Suharwardy would be the Chairman
and the other members are Mr. Javed Ahmad Rana, Mr. Nurboo Gialchan, Ch.
Nizam-ud-din Khatana, Mr. G. Q. Pardesi and Mr. Jugal Kishore.
In the Works, PHE,
Irrigation& Flood Control, Agriculture, Horticulture, Cooperative and
Estates Departmental Committee, Mr. Murtaza Ahmad Khan would be the chairman
and other members are Mr. Ajat Shatru Singh, Mr. Mohammad Amin Bhat, Mr. Vijay
Bakaya, Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Mir and Master Noor Hussain.
Similarly, in the
Revenue, Housing& Urban Development Department, Rural Development
Department, Education, Home and Information Departmental Committee, Mr. Sheikh
Ghulam Rasool would be the chairman and other members are Ajay Kumar Sadhotra,
Haji Ali Mohammad Bhat, Mr. Subash Chander Gupta, Syed Asgar Ali and Dr. B.A.
Veeri.
The Committee on
Petitions would be headed by Mr. B. R. Kudal and the relative members are Ch.
Nizam-ud-din Khatana, Mr. Subash Chander Gupta, Shiekh G. Q. Pardesi and Master
Noor Hussain.
In the Privileges
Committee, Mr. Ajay Kumar Sadhotra would be chairman and the members are Mr. Jahangir
Hussain Mir, Mr. Subash Chander Gupta and Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri.
The Committee on
Government Assurances would be headed by Mr. Syed Asgar Ali and the members are
Mr. Ravinder Kumar Sharma, Mr. Mohammad Amin Bhat, Sheikh Ghulam Rasool and Aga
Syed Ahmad Rizvi.
The Committee on
Subordinates Legislation would be chaired by Mr. Javed Ahmad Rana and the other
members are Mr. Khaild Najeeb Suharwardy, Mr. Nurboo Gialchan, Mr. Vijay
Bakaya, Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Mir and Haji Ali Mohammad Bhat.
In the Ethics
Committee Mr. Syed Mohammad Rafiq Shah would be the chairman and the other
members are Syed Asgar Ali, Mr. Ajat Shatru Singh, Aga Syed Ahmad Rizvi and
Master Noor Hussain.
The Environment
Committee would be chaired by Mr. Jahangir Hussain Mir and the other members
are Mr. B. A. Magray, S. Dharambir Singh Oberio, Mr. Jugal Kishore and Haji
Mohammad Bhat.
The Members nominated
for Rules Committee are Mr. Ajat Shatru Singh, Mr. Subash Chander Gupta, Syed
Asgar Ali, Mr. Naresh Kumar Gupta, Sheikh Ghulam Rasool and Dr. Bashir Ahmad
Shah (Veeri) for which Chairman, Legislative Council, Mr. Amrit Malhotra would
be Ex-officio Chairman for the period one year.
The Members nominated
for House Committee are Mr. Khalid Najeeb Suharwardy, Mr. Jahangir Hussain Mir,
Ch. Nizam-ud-din-Khatana and Mr. Jugal Kishore for which Chairman, Legislative
Council, Mr. Amrit Malhotra would be Ex-officio Chairman for the period one
year.
The Members nominated
for Library committee are Mr. Javed Ahmad Rana, Mr. Ravinder Kumar Sharma,
Mohammad Amin Bhat, Sheikh Ghulam Qadir Pardesi and Mohammad Ashraf Mir for
which Chairman, Legislative Council, Mr. Amrit Malhotra be Ex-officio Chairman
for the period one year.
The members nominated
for General Purpose Committee are Deputy Chairman, Mohammad Yousaf Taing, Mr.
R. S. Chib, (Leader of the House), Mr. B. A. Magray, Mr. Ajay Kumar Sadhotra,
Mr. Murtaza Ahmad Khan, Mr. B. R. Kundal, Syed Rafiq Ahmad Shah, Mr. Nurboo Gialchan,
Vijay Bakaya and S. Dharambir Singh for which Chairman, Legislative Council,
Mr. Amrit Malhotra would be Ex-officio Chairman for the period of one
year.
Khoda thanks media
for support, describes it vital link between people, admn
SRINAGAR, MAY 28:
Describing media as a vital link between people and administration, Director
General Police (DGP), Mr. Kuldeep Khoda today thanked various segments of media
for extending their co operation during his tenure as head of the J&K Police.
Interacting with the
members of media fraternity here today, Mr. Khoda appreciated the role of the
media in constructively criticizing the establishment in pointing out certain
shortcomings which according to him were removed in the shortest possible time.
”Sometimes there were
instances when the media persons complained about them not being treated well
but it was all because of misunderstandings and communication gaps between the
media and the establishment”, the outgoing DGP said adding that the law enforcement
agencies must make sure that such gaps and misunderstanding are not allowed to
happen.
“I have had very good relations with the media and I hope my successors will
follow suit”, Khoda said. He said that the PHQ Public Relations Wing headed by
Qazi Mohammad Shafi played an important role in maintaining good media
relations.
The Director General Police also released a Crime Gazzette on the occasion.
Additional Directors General of Police, Mr. K Rajendra Kumar, Mr. Naveen
Agarwal, Dr. S P Vaid, Director Information, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad, IsGP, Sheikh
Owais Ahmad, Mr. S M Sahai, Dr. B. Srinivas, Mr. M. Sulaiman Salaria, Mr. Arun
Kumar, Mr. Rouf ul Hassan, Mr. Alok Puri and Mr. A. Q. Manhas, DIsG, Mr.
Shafqat Watali, Mr. Showkat Malik, Mr. Rajinder Gupta and Mr. Shakeel
Baig, AIG Personnel, Gh Hassan Bhat, SSP Srinagar Syed Ashiq Bukhari, SP,
Budgam, Mr. Amit Kumar and other senior police officers were present on the
occasion.
CM chairs meet to
recommend CVC, VCs
SRINAGAR, MAY 28: A meeting to recommend the appointment of Chief
Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) and two Vigilance Commissioners (VCs) was held
this evening under the chairmanship of Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah which
was attended by Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand, Minister for Law,
Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar and Leader of Opposition in the
Assembly, Ms. Mehbooba Mufti.
Briefing media after the meeting, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar said that the Chief
Minister made an effort to evolve consensus as was done earlier in the case of
appointment to State Information Commission and State Accountability
Commission. He further informed that a panel of six persons each for CVC and
VCs was deliberated upon in the meeting. However, he said, there was no
consensus on the name of CVC as the same was not agreed to by the leader of
opposition.
Mr. Sagar further informed that the institutions such as Vigilance Commission
should be kept above politics but unfortunately some persons are politicizing
the appointments to these institutions. He further stated that the
recommendations would be submitted to the Governor for his approval.
Earning peoples’ credibility is biggest achievement of PDP”
People of J&K have strong faith in PDP’s convictions: Mufti
Jammu May
28(VOS): Patron of the Peoples
Democratic Party (PDP) Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that his party has
earned credibility of the people through its convictions and commitments. He
said that with the support and cooperation of the people, PDP wants to change
the present ineffective system.
Addressing
a function to welcome hundreds of people from Bishnah assembly segment, who
joined PDP here today, Mr Sayeed said that aim of his party was not only to
attain power but to uphold the dignity and honour of the people of Jammu
and Kashmir. “One of the biggest achievement of PDP is that people of Jammu and
Kashmir have accepted this party as alternative of National Conference”, he
said, adding, “it is not the question whether we are in the government or not,
it is our achievement that we have won hearts and minds of the people of Jammu
and Kashmir”. He said that it was all due to the good governance of the PDP led
government that people have faith on this party. “Three year was a small period
but we had tried our best to come up to the expectations of the people”, he
said and expressed satisfaction that people of Jammu and Kashmir have
appreciated the work of the PDP led regime.
He
said it was all due to the pro-people policies of the party that PDP has
emerged as strong alternative in the state within a short span of time.
“Policies and programmes of PDP are formulated by incorporating wishes and
aspirations of all sections, all regions and sub-regions of the state,” he said
and reminded the gathering that PDP led regime has set an example of good
governance.
“Attaining
power is not only agenda of our party. My desire is to make Jammu and Kashmir
as Island of peace with the support and cooperation of the people,” he said and
added that with the power of the people of the he want to change destiny of the
people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Pointing
towards rampant corruption in the State, he regretted that present regime
has crossed all limits as far as corruption, favourtism and nepotism was
concerned. He said that although all sections of the society were facing
hardship due to wrong policy of preset regime, younger generation was bearing
maximum brunt of the policies being adopted by this dispensation. He said that
there was total anarchy in the State because the present regime has failed to
bring transparency in the governance.
He
reminded that the PDP-led regime had brought transparency and accountability to
the governance and justice was given to all sections of society. He claimed
that during the PDP-Congress regime more than 70,000 Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT)
teachers were appointed. More than 30,000 anganwari workers were also appointed
but not even a single case of favouritism and nepotism was highlighted. “We
institutionalized the recruitment process to ensure that only deserving and
meritorious candidate should be recruited,” he said.
Hundreds
of people under the leadership of Majid Shapoo and Kalmosh Mottan joined PDP.
Trilok
Singh Bajwa, Thakur Balbir Singh, Ved Mahajan, Asgar Ali, MLC, Daman Bhasin,
Shanti Devi, Hussain Ali Wafa, Falail Singh Suram Singh, Capt Anil Gour, Suresh
Sharma, Rafiq Malik, Rajinder Manhas, Mohinder Kotwal, Narinder Singh Raina,
Deepinder Kour, R K Bali, Satpal Singh Charak, Parshotam Gupta, Som Nath,
Chatter Saini, Tarseem Saini, Tazim Dar, Kuldeep Sharma, Ajay Sharma,
Billowaria, Vikram Singh and others also addressed the meeting.
Contesting elections an internal matter of Hurriyat: Sajad
“State needs Economic Freedom before Political Freedom”
Srinagar May
28(VOS): Emphasizing
need for the economic independence of the state, Peoples Conference (S)
Chairman Sajjad Gani Lone has said that contesting elections is an internal
matter of the Hurriyat Conference.
Adressing
a press conference at his Sanat Nagar residence, Sajjad Lone defended his
decision to contest Parliamentary Elections and pledged to work hard for the
upcoming Municipal elections in the state. He also criticized the state
government for not being decisive about holding of the Municipal elections.”I am
content and my conscience is clear about contesting parliamentary elections
some years back, I think it was the right decision”, Sajjad Said. “It looks
like the state government is not willing to hold the municipal elections”, he
added.
In
response to a question regarding the speculations about the Hurriyat conference
readying itself to contest elections, Sajjad said that only Hurriyat can take a
decision about it. “Those people who are speculating about it are doing it out
of frustration. It is the Hurriyat which has to decide about it as it is an
internal matter of the Hurriyat Conference”, he said.
While
replying questions, Sajjad said that there is a monopoly of two families on the
politics of the state, pledging to what he calls getting the state politics rid
of these families. “Our party’s aim is to save people from the economic and
social injustice. The successive governments have failed to curb the social,
economic injustice in the state that is why private sector could not develop in
the state”, he said.
Sajjad
alos stressed the need for economic freedom of the people of the state. “Before
Political freedom or restoration of people’s rights, the state needs economic
freedom. This is the main agenda of our party”, Sajjad added.
Regarding
the human rights violations Sajjad said that all these violations are happening
as the state is according to him a police state. “This is a police state. In
every sphere of life here, police and security forces are involved. It is our
pledge to get the state out of this administrative and political mess”, the PC
Chairman said.
Stressing
the need to get qualified and honest people into the politics of the state
Sajjad said that it is his endeavour to encourage such people. “We will make
sure that honest and educated people come into politics. We don’t want tainted
people in our party and we will make sure to keep them at bay”, Sajjad said.
Two contesting candidates Mohammad Kamal and Mohammad Maqbool Rather joined
Peoples Conference on the occasion expressing their faith in the leadership of
Sajjad Lone." instead of "Two contesting candidates belonging to National Conference
and Peoples Democratic Party Mohammad Kamal and Mohammad Maqbool Rather joined
Peoples Conference on the occasion expressing their faith in the leadership of
Sajjad Lone." in the news story "Contesting elections an internal matter of Hurriyat:
Sajad" sent in first English Bulletin today.
Advocate
Fayaz Ahmed Magray from Kanihama, Beerwah, Ghulam Hassan Sheikh from Beerwah
and Peer Ghulam Mohammad Shah from Khag Beerwah also joined Peoples’ Conference
on this occasion and expressed their dream in strengthening the party. Sajad
Lone welcomed all new entrants into Peoples’ Conference.
Employees, Govt must end stalemate: Mirwaiz
Srinagar May
28 (VOS): Condemning
government action on the striking employees, Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has said that due to the continuous tug of war between the
government and the employees common man is suffering endlessly.
“Corrupt
system, striking employees and negative government attitudes combined with
oppressive policies of the governrnment have broken the back of common man”,
said Mirwaiz in a press statement issued here.
Mirwaiz
strongly condemned the government action on the striking employees saying that
oppression, detentions, beatings, nocturnal raids, and spreading fear by
government agencies was unacceptable and condemnable. “Both, employees and the
government, should find solution to the problems through negotiations”, Mirwaiz
suggested.
Mirwaiz
made it clear the government and employees should know their rights and duties.
“Kashmiris are the worst sufferers and every possible effort should be
undertaken to provide relief to common masses”, Mirwaiz added.
Expressing
disbelief, Mirwaiz said if government has already entered into agreements with
the employees on these basic issues, why it was now retracting from its stand?
He
urged the government to consider the justified demands of the employees and
thus provide relief to the common Kashmiris.
End present stalemate: NC to neighbours
Srinagar May
28 (VOS): Urging the
Neighboring countries to end the present stalemate and ensure that a series of
dialogue gain momentum the National Conference Monday warned all the
stakeholders that keeping Kashmir issue on backburner will be counterproductive.
Addressing
a party convention at Dooru in south Kashmir, The NC additional General
Secretary said that its time for all the stakeholders to sit up and take a far
reaching decision to ensure that the state remains peaceful and a solution is
carved out. Dr. Kamal said Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah always worked as a bridge
between the two countries and everyone should follow the footsteps of the great
leader. He said that it becomes an obligation of all the leaders of either side
to ensure that we reach a common point where we could resolve the Kashmir Issue
amicably.
“The
leaders of either side have to leave their stated positions and come on a
common platform and accept autonomy” said Kamal adding “Autonomy can be the
option everyone can relate themselves to”
He
said that NC believes that restoration of internal autonomy is best solution to
resolve the Kashmir issue. “The restoration of autonomy is the political right
of the people of the state and unless it is restored, people will always feel
affronted,” he said.
Asking
for the restoration of pre 1989 position on borders the General Secretary said
that the additional troops should be sent back to barracks as we see a
considerable change in the overall situation of the state adding that troops
have done a commendable job. He said that people adjoining the LOC are facing
enumerable problems and we all should ensure that they live a peaceful life
While
talking about the traditional routes Dr. Kamal said that NC is committed to
open all the roads connecting the neighboring countries adding that the
government under the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to open the
Mughal road within a couple of months,” he said.
Lashing
out at PDP, the additional General Secretary said that PDP leadership is
responsible for the troubles being faced by the people for the past 2 decades.
“The
PDP leadership harassed the pundits and the Muslims in the valley then
introduced black laws like AFSPA,” he said.
Dr
Kamal also said that PDP patron has no moral right to talk about functioning of
coalition government. He said that sex scandal, forest scam and loot of public
property were common during Mufti’s rule in the state,” he
said.
MLC,
Bashir Ahmad Veeri, Provencial Secretary Sheikh Ghulam Ahmad Saloora, Advocate
Mohammad Akbar Ganie, Ghulam Nabi Adagami and Ifthikhar Ahmad Misgar also
addressed the people on the occasion. The leaders stressed upon party workers
to support the Omar Abdullah led coalition government for overall development
of the state in general and south Kashmir in particular
On
the occasion MLC Bashir Ahmad Veeri sanctioned Rs 4 Lakhs from his constituency
development fund for the area.
Two held with Charas
Srinagar, 28 May (VOS): Intensifying its crack down on drug peddlers
and drug addicts, police has arrested two people in connection with alleged
drug trafficking in Pattan area of Baramulla district
Police sources told VOS that on specific information provided by
the CID, Kreeri Police apprehended Mehraj ud din Bhat S/O Ab. Jabar, who
also happens to be the Dy. Sarpanch of the area, along with Mohammad Ayoub Bhat
S/O Abdul Aziz, both residents of Bocho Pattan and recovered half a kilogram of
Charas from them. Police said both have been lodged in police station kreeri
and an FIR is being lodged against them.
Meanwhile locals have hailed the police action against the drug
menace. Pertinently Police has been very active in checking drug
traficing and its abuse in the area for some time which has earned them
applaud among the public (VOS).
High level security review meeting held
Srinagar, May
28 (VOS): A high level security review meeting was held here on Monday which
was attended by Home Secretary B R Sharma, DGP Kuldeep Khoda, GOC 15-Corps Lt
Gen S A Hasnain, GOC 16-Corps Lt
Gen A S Nanda and other senior officers of police and other security agencies.
Sources
told VOS that security arrangements for ensuing
Amarnath yatra was discussed in the meeting. “Partial revocation of Armed
Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) came also for discussion in the meeting,”
they added.
Second NATO
copter crashes in eastern Afghanistan
Another NATO helicopter has crashed in eastern Afghanistan after
at least two US-led foreign soldiers were killed in today's first such
incident, Press TV reports.
The Taliban militant group claimed responsibility for downing the copters, saying eight US-led foreign soldiers were killed in the incidents.
US-led soldier
killed in southern Afghanistan
Another US-led soldier with the NATO military alliance has been
killed in a bomb attack in war-torn Afghanistan’s troubled south.
“An International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) service member died following an insurgent attack in southern Afghanistan today,” the US-led ISAF said in a press release on Monday.
NATO has not yet released details on the exact location of the incident or the nationality of the soldier.
Also on Monday, a US-led NATO helicopter crashed in eastern Afghanistan, leaving at least two more soldiers dead.
On Saturday, four US-led forces were killed in separate explosions in southern Afghanistan.
A total of ten foreign soldiers have been killed in the war-torn country since Saturday.
Roadside bombs and IEDs are by far the most lethal weapons the Taliban militants have used against Afghan forces and occupying foreign troops in recent years.
A total of 566 US-led troops lost their lives in Afghanistan in 2011. However, 2010 remains the deadliest year for foreign military casualties, with a death toll of 711.
The growing number of military casualties in Afghanistan has intensified opposition in the United States and other NATO member states against the protracted war in the country.
US-led troops have been fighting in Afghanistan since 2001. Their initial offensive removed the Taliban from power, but insecurity continues to rise across the country despite the presence of about 130,000 foreign forces.
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