Police Foils Employees' Secretariat Gherao, hundreds arrested.
JCC calls for ' Raj Bhawan' Challo, Pen down strike.
Threatens to 'Unseat' Omar.
'Govt. ready to negotiate. Let JCC avoid Confrontation." Nasir.


Srinagar, May 09(VOS):Police on Wednesday foiled the Employees march towards Civil Secretariat in Srinagar and arrested more than 300 agitating employees after spraying the colored water at them near Jahangir Chowk. Witnesses told VOS that employees split into many groups to make their way to Civil Secretariat, however Police swung into action and apprehended most of the employee leaders along with their supporters before they could actually reach to the main gates of the secretariat which houses the office of Chief Minster and other Cabinet Minsters and Bureaucrats." JCC leader Mohammad Khursheed Aalam was arrested near Shaeed Gunj along with his supporters whereas the other JCC leader Ab. Qayoom Wani was taken into custody at Jahangir Chowk when he was heading towards the secretariat along with a group of employees."Witnesses added that Qayoom turned unconscious after Police sprayed colored water at the protesting employees led by Wani. Sources added that Wani along with some of his colleagues were taken to Police Control Room Hospital and then refereed to SMHS for initial treatment before being lodged at Police Station Kotibagh.
According to VOS, a huge contingent of police personnel had been deployed around Civil Secretariat besides at other places in the valley. " We have been here since yesterday evening to check the entry of employees into the city." a police man on duty at Mirgund told VOS wishing anonymity.

          Meanwhile Condemning the Police action, JCC leaders threatened of launching a 'revolution' against Omar Abdullah Govt. and have vowed to dislodge his government if their (Employees') demands were not met. " If People can run government with just 12 percent of votes , why can't employees with 34 percent vote share dislodge it." Senior JCC leader Mohammad Khursheed Alam told VOS over phone from Shaheed Gunj Police Station.
Earlier addressing the Employees at Sheed Gunj, Alam SAID, " Chief Minster is being misled by his advisers and he is inviting trouble for himself."While lashing out at what he said the 'Imported Bureaucracy', Khursheed Alam said, " They want to divide the JCC leadership but the united strengthen of Employees will defeat their designs."

          Meanwhile another JCC senior leader and EJAC(Q) chairman Abdul Qayooom Wani accused got. of playing Politics on Employees demands ." State Government is playing with Fire and it will defiantly burn its hands in it." Wani told VOS over phone from Khothi Bagah Police station. A nnouncing the future course of action, Wani said, "JCC will observe a three day strike from May 24. and this time we will be marching towards Raj Bhawan." Eloberating the details of the programme, Wani said that more than 4.5 lakh employees of the state will continue their demands of implementation of the November 2011 agreement between Govt. and JCC. “There will be a pen down strike on 24th of May, followed by Secretariat gherao on 25th and a march towards Governor House on 26th of May." Qayoom Wani added.

          Meanwhile Police had raised check points and Nakas at various places on Srinagar Muzaferabad and Srinagar Jammu highways besides at other entry points in Srinagar.
" Police was asking of the I-Cards after which employees were being sent back to their homes." Employees told VOS. They said, Special checking points were raised at  Parampora,Mirgund, Pattan, Kreeri, Sumbal,Panthacjowk, Hyderpora By pass and other junctions. The Police restrictions in some parts of the city triggered Traffic jams in city.
Meanwhile State Government on Wednesday while expressing its readiness to hold negotiations with JCC leadership said that Employees were the part of the society. “They are the part of our society and we can't ignore them." MOS Home, Nasir Aslam Wani told VOS, adding that government was always in favor of friendly relations with employees. He further added that though most of the demands have already been met, however got. was ready to meet the other demands through mutual consensus. Nasir however appealed Employees to avoid confrontation.
MoS home also rejected the allegations of use of force and said No nakas were raised in the valley.

Nazir Massodi's Father Passes Away.

CM, Wani, DGP and Jurnos attend Funeral, express  Condolences.

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):After a prolonged illness, Father of noted TV Journalist and NDTV Srinagar Correspondent Nazir Ahmad Massodi Passed away on Wednesday morning at SKIMS Soura. Gh. Mohammad Massodi (75) was being treated upon at the Medical institute  for a serious ailment., and had been admitted there last month, where he was kept in ICU observation. Masoodi was also flown to Mumbai for treatment in Tata Memorial Institute last year. Family sources told VOS that his dead body was driven to his ancestral village Doodawan Kupwara in the morning for performing of last rites. Chief Minster Omar Abdullah along with MoS Home Nasir Aslam Wani, flew to Doodwan and participated in the Namaze Janaza. DGP Kuldeep Khoda  also accompanied the Chief Minster to Kupwara. Er. Rashid also took part in the Namaz e Janza. Later Chief Minster condoled Nazir Masoodi and expressed his sympathies with the bereaved family. Meanwhile soon after the sad news reached Press Colony, many journalists including Senior Journalist Dr. Shujat Bukhari, , Shiekh Mushtaq  and VOS Managing Editor Shabir Malik left for Kupwara where they condoled Masoodi Family. Many officers of  Civil and Police administration were also present at the time of Namaz e Janaza, which include, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Mohammad Shafi rather, SP kupwara Irshad Ahmad, Director Health Services Dr. Saleem ur Rehman , ARTO Pulwama Malik Tahir and others. DPN president and Agriculture Minister GH. Hassan Mir, PHE Minister Taj Mohi u Din , CPIM Secretary Mohd Yousuf Tarigami .PDP front chairman Hakim Mohd Yaseen and other Senior Leader expressed grief over the passing away of Gh Mohd Masoodi.

Meanwhile VOS also expressed condolences to the beavered family and prayed for the departed Soul at a condolence meeting held at VOS office in Srinagar on Wednesday afternoon.
Omar emphasizes harmony, tranquillity for development

‘Employees’ salaries increase from Rs. 6000 cr to Rs. 11500 cr since 2008’

Questions protest when government is employee-friendly all along

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):Terming peace pre-requisite for development, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Wednesday stressed the need on maintaining tranquillity and harmony in the State to help comprehensive progress on all fronts of socio-economic and political significance.

            “I am time and again making it clear that political issues relating to Jammu and Kashmir require political addressing. Economic measures have their own importance but these cannot resolve matters of political dimensions”, he said adding that his government is determined to carry forward development process with commitment and facilitate internal and external dialogue processes to ensure peace in the State.

            Addressing a large public gathering at Mujgund near here, Omar Abdullah cautioned the people about the designs of vested interests who aim at disturbing peace and law and order situation in the State.

            “These elements are bent upon to divide the people and disturb the peaceful situation in the State. You have to remain cautious about their attempts and foil their anti-peace designs”, he emphasized.

            Omar Abdullah said that despite huge financial constraints his government has enhanced salaries of government employees from Rs. 6000 crores in 2008 to Rs. 11500 crores at present. “In addition to this Rs. 450 crores of arrears and additional DA instalments have already been provided to the government employees”, he added questioning the reasonability and rationale behind the protests of employees when his government has all along been employee-friendly.

            The Chief Minister said that one can easily imagine the state of financial affairs of Jammu and Kashmir where the total annual income is Rs. 6500 crores by all sources and it has to incur Rs. 11500 crores on the salaries of government employees and Rs. 2500 crores on payment of pension to retired government employees besides bearing Rs. 2000 crores annual losses on supply of electricity.

            Rejecting the propaganda by certain people regarding the development of Srinagar city, the Chief Minister said that holistic and equitable development of the State is benchmark of his government. “Alongwith other areas, the Srinagar district has received equal focus on development front”, he said and substantiated his statement by giving facts and figures.

            The Chief Minister said that during the last three years 10 new bridges have been sanctioned for Srinagar city including those at Dalgate, Mujgund, Zero bridge, Zainakadal, Vethapora, Palpora, Maulana Azad, Malru and Barbarshah involving an expenditure of about Rs. 97 crores. He said Jahangir Chowk Flyover has been approved at a cost of over Rs. 250 crores. He said works involving about Rs. 90 crores are being executed in Srinagar under ERA besides projects involving Rs. 122 crores launched for the development of roads, bridges and water supply schemes.

            The Chief Minister said Rs. 38.14 crore Nagar Nagar Tourist Circuit in Shaher-i-Khas has already been taken in hand besides developing Chinar Bagh at Rs. 3.34 crores. He said 2000 youth of Srinagar city have been recruited under special recruitment drive by Police Department.

            Omar Abdullah said that additional block of Lal Ded Hospital is under construction at Rs. 40 crores while new maternity hospital in Srinagar has been approved at a cost of Rs. 50 crores. He said SKIMS is being provided an amount of Rs. 720 crore for its expansion and upgradation besides upgrading and improving hospitals and health centres in Srinagar.

            The Chief Minister said that in the Batmaloo Constituency in which Mujgund area is situated, about Rs. 70 crores have been spent on the development of roads in the year 2010-11 while the amount spent on this sector in 2011-12 has been Rs. 26.87 crores and this year Rs. 84 crores have been earmarked for the same. He said 202 kilometres of road length has been black topped and macadamized in Batmaloo Constituency during the last year.

            The public meeting was also addressed by Minister of State for R&B Javid Ahmad Dar, MLA Batmaloo Assembly Constituency, Irfan Ahmad Shah and Provincial President, National Conference, Kashmir, Ali Mohammad Dar.

            Minister of State for R&B presented resume of the achievements registered in the State during last three years in various sectors with special reference to R&B. He said the commitments made to people are being fulfilled one after one.

            Welcoming the Chief Minster Irfan Shah highlighted the demands of the people of the area and requested for a degree college, a maternity hospital, a playfield, drain at malru and special recruitment drive for the area besides other local demands. He also thanked the Chief Minister for his keen interest in the development of Batmaloo Constituency. “We are thankful to you for providing lot of support and funds for the development of various sectors in the constituency and hope that the other demands of the people would be positively considered”, he added.

            Earlier, the Chief Minister formally inaugurated the 172 metre long double-lane Pre-Stressed Concrete (PSC) girder type Bridge consisting of four spans of 43 mtr over River Jehlum at Mujgund constructed at a cost of Rs. 12.20 crores.

            The bridge will provide direct connectivity to National Highway (Srinagar-Bandipora) benefiting about 2 lakhs population residing in the areas of Palpora, Tangpora, Bakshipora, Chochan, Takun and other adjoining areas. This will also provide an alternative route to Srinagar to Ganderbal. It will also benefit to the inhabitants of areas in between Noorbagh and Sumbal.

Taj, seeks return of Power Projects to the State

Asks for engagement of local people against

 Class III and IV category in Uri-II HEP Projects

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control,  Taj  Mohi-ud-Din while discussing the memorandum of understanding held between Union Minister of Power and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir on the issue of engagement of Class III and Class IV posts from the local aspirant in the Uri-II Hydro Electric  Power (HEP) Project has taken a firm stand that the engagements against these posts are absolutely necessary to be taken from the local area bearing cabinet approval of the Govt in 2000 .The issue was taken up by the Minister in a meeting held today under the chairmanship of Union Minister of State for Power,  S.K.Venugopal at Sharam Shakti Bhavan, New Delhi . The Minister was accompanied by Minister of State, Power, Shabir Ahmed Khan. The Union Secretary, Power, Chairman & Managing Director, NHPC and the other senior officials of NHPC were also present in the meeting.

            Further, in order to look into the various issues arising out of the terms and conditions of the State’s stand for entrustment of the Hydroelectric Power Projects to the NHPC in the State, the Minister handed over the Report of the Cabinet Sub Committee constituted by one J&K Government Order to the Union Power Ministry, Wherein stress has been laid for

           The Allotment of 47% of the Salal HEP Project to the State against allocated 35% generated from said project and to compensate on account of losses accrued to the State amounting to Rs. 2350 crores due to less allocations of power since the commissioning of the project in 1987-88, besides return of the project to the State. He said that Returning of Uri-I Hydroelectric Power Projects at its depreciated cost to the State being inherent in the terms and conditions of the execution of the said project. The ownership of the HEP projects in terms of MOU of July 2000 to continue to remain with the State of Jammu & Kashmir. The Minister is hopeful that the Union Minister will conveniently look into the issues projected and discussed during the meeting and the ministry will take positive decisions in this regard.

PDP Condemns police action on employees

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the use of force against state government employees who were holding peaceful demonstrations to press their demands. In a statement the PDP chief spokesperson Naeem Akhtar said use of brute force was the preffered method of dealing with any situation for the Omar Abdullah led government.

Akhtar said it was unfortunate as much as disasterous for the state that the government had not been able to convince its own employees about its intentions and policies towards their welfare. He said it was any body’s guess as to what would be the fate of governance in a situation of confrontation between the government and its own tools which has now assumed almost a permanent status. “Ever since the present government assumed the charge it is on a war path with every section of the society and not even its own employees are satisfied with the condition of their working”, he said.

The party said every time the government makes an announcement it fails to convince every body. The loss of credibility of government promises is exemplified by the continous stir of employees wether they are permanent, temporary, daily wage, casual or any other category every body has a grouse which the government tries to sort out not by resolving through civilized means but by silencing the voices through force, he said.

Akhtar said hundreds of employees were arrested once again today after most of them were teargased, batton charged and water cannoned. “If this happens with the cream of our society it is obvious that no one under this dispensation is safe”.

Identify priorities and accomplish them in six months: CS

Asks Administrative Secretaries to issue orders on devolution of powers to panchayats

            

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):Underlining the importance of outcome based approach in administration, Chief Secretary Madhav Lal today directed the Administrative Secretaries to select certain priority activities in their departments to be completed within a fixed time frame. “Every department should identify 3-4 activities which thus undertaken should be accomplished in six months” he said elaborating that these activities should leave visible impact for the citizens, and if undertaken on pilot mode, should be rapidly replicable after six months.

            Chairing the periodical meeting of Committee of Secretaries here today Chief Secretary asserted that outcome based approach to performance will significantly improve service delivery to the people. “It will also strengthen institutional capacities” he said.

            Chief Secretary expressed satisfaction at the commissioning of the traffic signals in some parts of Srinagar, which has been appreciated by the public.

            Madhav Lal also conveyed the directions of the Chief Minister to Administrative Secretaries regarding empowerment of Panchayat Raj Institutions in the state. He asked them to issue detailed orders regarding operationalisation of powers already devolved to panchayats within next 10 days.

            Chief Secretary also reviewed the extension of additional services pertaining to various departments to be notified under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Services Guarantee Act-2011.

            Detailed deliberations were also held on the issues pertaining to administrative services, status of departmental websites, file monitoring system, infrastructural development in schools and other government schemes.

Moral education, traditional value system pillars of society: Dy CM

Lauds efforts of Dainik Jagran for organizing ‘Sanskar Shala’

 Srinagar, May 09(VOS):Laying stress on promoting value education among students, Deputy Chief Minister  Tara Chand said traditional value system and moral education are pillars of age old Indian society. He said value loaded teaching needs to be encouraged among youngsters for laying foundation of a strong value based society. Ethics and good manners carve better person out of an individual and children being citizens of tomorrow must make them an integral part of their personality, he added.

 Tara Chand was addressing the gathering at a function organized on culmination of “Sanskar Shala”- a campaign started by Dainik Jagran newspaper for promotion of moral values among youngsters, here today. He was Chief Guest on the occasion.

The function was jointly organized by the Dainik Jagran daily and Guru Nanak College of Education, Jallo Chuck.

Various schools participated in the Sanskar Shala, prominent among which are - Sri Guru Gobind Singh Higher Secondary School, M.V International School and Army Public School, Kaluchak. APS Kaluchak won the over all trophy. 

Among others, Deputy Commissioner, Samba  Mubarak Singh, Former Secretary, Cultural Academy  Ramesh Mehta, Chairperson, Guru Nanak College of Education Prof. Hanbans Singh, Group Editor, Dainik Jagran  Abhimanyu Sharma and a galaxy of intellectuals, educationists, prominent citizens and students attended the event.

Lauding efforts of Dainik Jagran newspaper, the Deputy Chief Minister said such events go a long way in promoting secular and tradition values in the society, adding that such campaigns should be organized on routine basis and more and more colleges and schools should participate in these.

He said media is fourth pillar of the society and has an important role to play. He said media acts as a bridge between the Government and the people and brings to fore various issues and matters of concern affecting people at large.

“Government is leaving no stone unturned for developing state on modern lines and media has dual role; on one hand proper projection of the achievements of the government is done through the media and at the same time it gives feedback to the administration for fine-tuning its programs and policies,” he added.

Remembering Mahatma Gandhi for his untiring efforts in promoting secularism and moral education,  Tara Chand said lessons of moral and secular values taught by Gandhi Ji have more relevance in present times and value system in our society has to be strengthened. He said adequate stress on value education needs to be given and the same has to be made a compulsory part of curriculum in schools, colleges and universities.

“Our Nation is developing at fast pace and we are one of the biggest economy of the world but unfortunately our age old Sanskarsare getting neglected in this fast pace of modern times; everybody has to introspect on this topic and find a way to promote our rich traditions and centuries old moral values,” he maintained.

 Mehta in his speech laid stress on reversing the declining trend of moral education in present times. He said the campaign of Dainik Jagran – Shiksha Se Sabhyta is need of the hour and moral values need to be promoted at all levels in the society.

News Editor Arun Chowdhary welcomed the guests and addressed the gathering.

 Harbans Singh presented vote of thanks and threw light on the role of traditional value system of Indian society.

Calling for promoting Urdu at school level, the Deputy Chief Minister said being state language efforts need to be boosted for encouraging youngsters to learn the language and the same should be made compulsory up to tenth standard. 

Nasir inaugurates Jhelum View Park at Aramwari   

‘Old Zero Bridge to be restored, thrown open for LMVs shortly’

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):Minister of State for Home,  Nasir Aslam Wani, today inaugurated the Jhelum View Park, near Aramwari, which has developed by Irrigation & Flood Control Department. Chief Engineer, I&FC,  Mohammad Muzaffar Lankar, Director Tourism, Kashmir,  Farooq Ahmad Shah and VC, LAWDA,  Irfan Yasin, were also present on the occasion. Addressing the large gathering, the Minister highlighted pro-people initiatives taken by the Government. “During the last three years of coalition government landmark legislations like Public Services Guarantee Act and RTI Act had been passed. Watchdogs like State Information Commission and Vigilance Commission have been created to make administration more responsive,” he said.

On the ongoing restoration work on Old Zero Bridge, the Minister stated that the work be completed in a timeframe manner and the bridge opened for light vehicular traffic. This, he said, will ease pressure on New Zero Bridge and help streamline traffic movement.   

 Nasir Aslam said the Government will develop more parks around Srinagar city and beautify the Jhelum embankments on priority. “We have already started Jhelum cruise to attract tourists towards water sports,” the Minister added.

The Chief Engineer, in his address, ensured the people that the park will be equipped with benches, besides swings and slides will also be installed for children. He also said that Jhelum river will be regularly dredged and cleaned so that it is restored to its past glory.

CM for utilizing cloning to upgrade livestock

Underlines importance of biological interventions for quality production

Congratulates SKUAST scientists for cloning sheep-goat ‘Noori’

          

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):         Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Wednesday underlined the importance of biological interventions for improving livestock productivity and agriculture produce to benefit the society at large. He said that application of modern technology in the field of agriculture, animal husbandry and allied activities promises path breaking achievements in the holistic growth and development of these sectors.

            Interacting with the team of scientists of SKUAST who achieved the historic breakthrough in creating Pashmina Sheep-Goat clone ‘Noori’, the Chief Minister extending his greetings to them said that government was more than willing to provide all help to the Agriculture University to utilize the cloning technology for the benefit of the society at large.

            “Your achievement is praise worthy and I would like that your research and technical work would continue to achieve new highs. I hope your this achievement would be first of many such successes”, he told the team of scientists led by Vice Chancellor, SKUAST, Kashmir, Dr. Tej Partap.

            Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Hassan Mir, Minister for Animal Husbandry, Aga Syed Rouhalla, Minister of State for Rural Development Ajaz Ahmad Khan, Chief Secretary, Madhav Lal, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas, Commissioner Secretary Animal Husbandry, Shaleen Kabra and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

            The team of scientists who cloned ‘Noori’ comprising of its leader and Principal Investigator Dr. Riyaz Ahmad Shah, Dr. M. R. Fazili, Dr. Hilal Ahmad Khan, Dr. Masood Hussain, Dr. Nazir. A. Ganai, Dr. Syed Hilal and  Firdous Khan (SRF) were felicitated by the Chief Minister on the occasion and presented them the certificates for their achievement.

            Asking various questions about the utilization of cloning technology in improving the quality and numbers of livestock in the State, the Chief Minister said that SKUAST should also focus attention on cloning of rear animals like Hangul, Cheeru, Camel and similar other endangered species of Jammu and Kashmir.

            “Government wants to own and support projects of SKUAST aimed at application of technology to upgrade and increase the quality production of animals for the benefit of the society”, he said and asked the Agriculture University to formulate proposals in this regard in collaboration with the Animal and Sheep Husbandry Department for State Government for sponsorship.

            The Vice Chancellor SKUAST, Kashmir apprised the Chief Minister that the next step of the team associated with cloning of sheep-goat ‘Noori’ is to produce herd of cloned sheep-goats. “This would lead in producing greater numbers and good quality of Pashmina sheep-goats”, he said adding that University is looking forward to upgrade and rear Pashmina goats at Chang-Thang in Ladakh on modern technological lines. He said the Agriculture University is also working to utilize modern technology for making fodder available to the Pashmina goats population during the winter season easily and smoothly.

            He said that cloning technology can also be utilized to produce heavy weight sheep to meet the mutton requirement of the consumers in the State indigenously to a greater extent.

J&K Tourism Department Bagged the Best Destination

Award by International Travel Magazine ' Lonely Planet'

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):         The J&K tourism department bagged the best destination award despite stiff competition. it is important to  mention that the state tourism department has made endeavors to attract more and more tourists to J&K state which i include strengthening of tourist offices located outside state at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, ahmedabad and kolkata. the state tourism department participated in the India travel mart (ITM) held at various locations in the country and the most recent one was held at Hyderabad in December 2012. the tourism department also made its presence felt at the OTM (one world travel mart held at Mumbai and new Delhi in February 2012.during interaction with prominent members of the travel-trade industry who attended the OTM from across the globe, farooq ahmed shah, director tourism, Kashmir stressed the need to introduce additional flights and train services to Jammu & Kashmir originating from various parts of the country. The director tourism, Kashmir also suggested development of camp sites at tourist destinations within J&K state to overcome the shortage of accommodation for tourists. it would serve the dual purpose of offering a great experience to the tourists without hampering the natural beauty of the world famous locations.

NAVAL NCC CAMP ORGANISED BY NCC GROUP HQRS SRINAGAR

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):         The first Naval NCC Camp, which marks the commencement of Naval NCC activities  in the current year, is being conducted by 1 J&K Naval Unit NCC at Haft Chinar, Srinagar under the aegis of NCC Group Srinagar of NCC Directorate, J&K from 06-15 May 2012. The venue for this camp has been provided by The Chinar Corps, Srinagar. Young boys and girls of age group 13 to 19 from 27 schools and colleges of Jammu and Kashmir are participating in this Camp.  The aim of the camp is to impart collective Naval Training to the cadets of different institutions and afford them an opportunity to co-operate and live together as a team, introduce cadets to waterborne activities, develop qualities of character, courage, comradeship, discipline, leadership, secular out-look, spirit of adventure, sportsmanship and ideals of selfless service among youth to make them useful citizens.  Waterman ship activities like Boat Pulling; Sailing is being conducted in the ‘Dal Lake’ along with the ‘Save Dal’ awareness programme started by NCC Group Srinagar.  Such camps prepare cadets for selection for camps outside the state and qualify them for visits to foreign countries as part of Youth Exchange programme.  In addition lectures on ‘Personality Development’, ‘Career Counseling’, ‘Disaster Management’ and other social programmes have been included in the camp curriculum.   High attendance in the camps indicates the increasing level of awareness among young boys & girls of the state towards the NCC and the benefits of joining the largest Youth Organization of the world.

KAS Probationers interact with Div Com Kashmir

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):         KAS Probationers of 2011 batch, presently undergoing training at J&K IMPA called on Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir Dr Asgar Hassan Samoon today and discussed a wide range of issues with him.  Dr Samoon asked the young officers that they should be open to positive suggestions and consider innovative solutions. He said that the primary role of officers should be to redress the grievances of the general public. He urged the officers to be humane in their approach and take swift decisions for the betterment of the society. In matters related to restoration of law and order, he said that it has to be borne in mind that rules are made to help people, as such all necessary measures must be taken to ensure that peace and tranquillity is ensured. He asked them to maintain cordial relations with everyone, especially print and electronic media. He encouraged the officers to gain adequate disaster preparedness skills, so that they can take necessary preventive measures, as well as swiftly respond in case of any calamity. Div Com also satisfactorily answered various questions and queries raised by the KAS officers.

The KAS officers were led by their Course Directors Dr Sunita Zalpuri, Dr Mushtaq Ahmed Khan and Dr Mohammed Pervaz. The 28 KAS officers hail from Jammu Division as well as Kashmir Division and comprised of Javaid Ahmed, Qummerul Zamaan, Sheikh Enayatulla, Naveed Hussain, Shafiq Ahmad, Arshad H Ganai, Bashir Ahmed Bhat, Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, Ch. Mohammed Nawaz, Abdul Majeed Rather, Jaliel Ahmed Mir, Dr Ashwani Hansa, Er Samrinder Singh, Dr Nazir Ahmed Bhat, Dr. Iqbal H. Mir, Dr S. Salahuddin, Dr Mudasirah, Dr Suraya Ahmed, Jigmet Rafta, Qaiser Mehmood, Deep Novel Koul, Ashu Kumari, Arti, Diksha Bamaba, Saima Sharief Khan, Mohammed Imran Naik, Imtiaz, Chander Shekhar Sharma.

Police takes cognizance of minor arson in a religious place

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):         Police has taken the cognizance of the case of minor arson at a religious place in Narbal. Budgam police took cognizance of the arson committed at a religious place at Narbal. A case was registered in police station Magam. Police has started the investigation. Senior officials of civil and police with the help of respectable of the area are monitoring the situation. The situation is under control.

S. P. College organized Road Race

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):         The Sports Board of S. P. College Srinagar organized annual college road race for the male students here today. The race was flagged off by the collage Principal, Dr. Nazir Ahmad Gilkar at 6:00 a.m. from Nehru Park Srinagar. 97 students of the college took part in the race.  Umar Maqbool of B.Sc. 3^rd Year claimed first place by covering the distance in 24 minutes while  Tajamul of B.Sc. 2^nd Year and  Shabir Ahmad of B.Sc 3^rd Year claimed the 2^nd and 3^rd place respectively. The Trophies were given to first three position holders while medals awarded to 10 position holders by the college Principal.

The athletes ran via Oberio Crossing, SKICC, Kral Sangri, Braine Crossing and concluded at Foreshore Road Nishat, covering a distance of 7 Kms. On this occasion, Principal appreciated the students for their participation in the sports activities in and outside the campus. The Convener collage Sports Board, Prof.  Noor Muhammad Malik and Dr. M. Farooq Mir, Secretary Faculty Council also spoke on the occasion.

CM condoles and Dr. Farooq demise of Vijay Malla

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):         Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed grief over the sad demise of known Kashmiri singer Vijay Malla describing his death great loss to the artists fraternity and the society. In his condolence message, Omar Abdullah conveyed his sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.

Mean While Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy and President National Conference, Dr. Farooq Abdullah has condoled the sad demise of Kashmiri singer Vijay Malla. In his condolence message Dr. Farooq described Vijay Malla a great singer and artist and said that in his demise the state has lost a great artist. He conveyed his sympathy with the bereaved family and prayed for peace to the departed soul.

RASHTRIYA RIFLES CONDUCTS COUNSELING FOR BANK EMPLOYMENT

Srinagar, May 09(VOS):         In the ongoing Endeavour to empower the youth of the region and to make them capable for employment, a Rashtriya Rifles Battalion under the aegis of Counter Insurgency Force Romeo organized a lecture cum counseling session on various opportunities available in the banking sector as per attitude and aptitude of youth with the active support of J& K Bank.Mr. YP Saini, Bank Manager of J& K Bank Daraba and his staff made themselves available on the request of Battalion and delivered talks on the process of recruitment, preparation by candidates for cracking the exams and opportunities available after selection. After talks, a thirty minute question answer session was held where in bank officials replied to the queries of youth.  While speaking to the youth Mr. Saini said “Banking sector has tremendous growth potential in today’s environment”. Contrary to as usual, banking jobs are ample in number and provide adequate growth opportunities”. 

            This counseling was aimed to expose youth on opportunities available to them in banking sector. Earlier counseling on employment opportunities in army was organized in the same area. This was a sequel to that session and similar other counseling will continue. Youth turned up in large numbers which is seen as a great stride forward.

Altaf chairs Ist meeting of WC&MA

Directs for immediate desilting in Wullar Lake

SRINAGAR, MAY 09: Minister for Forest and Environment Mian Altaf Ahmad today asked the executing agencies to gear up men and machinery for effective implementation of prestigious Wullar Conservation Plan, for which Centre has already released the first installment of Rs 56 crore out of a total project cost of Rs 120 core sanctioned under 13^th Financial Commission.

Chairing the first meeting of the Wullar Conservation and Management Authority (WC&MA) at Civil Secretariat, Srinagar on Wednesday, Mian Altaf asked the concerned officers to submit proposals immediately for importing modern dredging machines for desilting of the Wullar lake. He ordered for procurement of JCB and Water Boats for initiating dredging/desilting work in the lake. He also directed for procuring solar lights from J&K Energy Development Agency (JKEDA) without any delay so that these are installed round the lake as a sequel to the face lifting and beautification measures.. He urged for greater coordination between the Wullar Development Authority and State Forest Corporation (SFC) to ensure cutting and extraction of a extra plants from within the lake body so that the wood is put to the proper use on commercial lines.

The Minister also directed for hiring of suitable accommodation for staff of the WDA till the requisite basic infrastructure on permanent basis is created.

The meeting discussed various issues pertained to the conservation of this Asia’s largest Water Body, which include purchase of equipments, office establishment, providing of engineering staff, catchment area treatment programme, revised works programmes etc.

The Minister said that Rs 120 crore Wullar Conservation Plan sanctioned by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests has to be completed upto 2015 positively adding that the main focus shall be on land and Water Resources Management Survey, demarcation of the Catchment Area and Water Management.

Mian Altaf directed the executing agencies to complete the targets fixed for completion of various conservation works within stipulated time frame adding that Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah is personally monitoring the peace of restoration works on the lake.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF), Mr. Vinod Ranjan, Commissioner, Secretary, Forest, Mr. Shantmanu, additional PCCF, OSD/Wullar, Mr. Abdul Razak, Conservator Water Management, Mr. Shuja Hyderi, Conservator CAT, Mr. Mohammad Manzoor and JD Planning Mr. Z. A. Banaday were present on the occasion. 

Jora for time bound completion of interior design, layout work of SPS museum

Says preservation, showcasing, heritage treasurers priority of govt

 SRINAGAR, MAY 09: Asserting that preservation and showcasing of heritage treasures of the State is on the top agenda of the government, the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora directed concerned authorities to redouble their efforts for time bound completion of interior designing and layout work of SPS Museum Complex Srinagar. He said any delay in this regard should not be tolerated and action under rules would be taken to those who shows negligence to their assigned jobs particularly in interior designing and lay out work of the museum.

Reviewing the status of interior designing and layout work of the SPS museum complex at a high level meeting held here today, the Minister directed concerned consultant agency to come with necessary design and layout work at the earliest so that the design work would be started through JKPCC well in time, asking the consultancy further delay in this regard would affect the agreement made by the government with M/S Matrika Design Collabrative, Mumbai. He directed Commissioner Secretary to take up the matter with head of the consultant agency and ask him to expedite his assigned job , otherwise the assignment would be got prepared by any other reputed .agency for not effecting further delay in interior design and layout work of the museum.

Commissioner Secretary tourism and culture, Mr Atul Dullo apprised the meeting about the progress of interior design work of the museum, said that interior project of the museum was based on 4 phases with completion period of 18 months. He said that the research design work of the Museum have been already completed by the consultancy while as the design and drawing work is awaited from consultancy firm.

He said the research and design project work of Phase-I has been completed by the firm and in respect of phase-II and III the designing firm submitted drawings and BOQ to Police Housing Corporation for Archaeology gallery to be established in ground Floor and for rest of floors and galleries is awaited.

Commissioner Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Mr. Atul Dulloo, Managing Director Police Housing Colony, senior officers of Planning , Tourism and Culture departments were among others present in the meeting. 

Mir asks people to maintain communal harmony

Vested interests trying to vitiate peaceful atmosphere  

SRINAGAR, MAY 09- Expressing his condemnation over the Narbal incident, Minister for Agriculture, Mr Ghulam Hassan Mir in his statement said that, this cowardly act is the handwork of those elements who are inimical to peace and development of the state.

 The Minister said that these elements want to disturb the peaceful atmosphere of the valley by infusing religious hatred among different sections of the society.

 The Minister said that by seeing developmental activities taking place across the state with the cooperation of people, these elements get frustrated and indulge in these nefarious activities. Their aim is to disturb the tourist season and stop the developmental process of the state.

Congratulating the people of the area for maintaining brotherhood inspite of the provocation, Mir urged the people not to give heed to the evil designs of these elements and wok for mutual coexistence among the different communities. He said maintaining peace and tranquillity in the valley is necessary for prosperity of the state and for defeating such elements.

Rs 41 cr released by EDI for disbursement among 562 entrepreneurs: Malik

Type designs for 22 GDCs discussed

SRINAGAR, MAY 09: Minister for Higher Education, Labour and Employment Mr. Abdul Gani Malik today impressed upon the officers of Labour and Employment to ensure that the motivated and trained prospective first generation entrants in the field of entrepreneurship and self employment are nurtured effectively.

The Minister was addressing a review meeting of Sher-e-Kashmir Employment and Welfare Programme for the Youth (SKEWPY) here today.

Director J&K EDI Mr. M. I. Parray, Chief Executive Officer, J&K Buildings and Constructions Workers Board Syed Muried Hussain, Vice President J&K Bank Mr. Nazir Ahmad, Deputy Director Central Employment and Assistant Director (P&S) Labour and Employment were present in the meeting.

He said SKEWPY offers Entrepreneurship Development Programmes (EDPs) which apart from sensitization, training and consultancy provides an incentive in the form of non-refundable Seed Money to the eligible Prospective Entrepreneurs to start their ventures under Seed Capital Fund Scheme (SCFS).

He said since the launch of the SCFS, out of Rs 50 crore earmarked for the purpose, Rs 41 crore stands released for disbursement through J&K Bank among 562 entrepreneurs of the state.

To ensure equitable distribution of Seed Capital Fund, Minister directed the EDI to sponsor minimum one case from each panchayat of the state.

Referring to security of future VSA holders, Mr. Malik issued necessary instructions to District Development Commissioners and District Employment and Counseling Centres (DECC) to impart training and awareness to them about welfare schemes through conferences and seminars so that after sometime, VSA holders become entrants in the field of entrepreneurship.

Mr. Malik exhorted for speeding up pace of DECC so that the functioning of these centres is streamlined and their services are improved.

Chief Executive Officer, J&K Buildings and Constructions Workers Board Mr. Muried informed the meeting that till date 69,000 construction workers have been registered by the Board while as Rs 117 crore have been deposited as Cess amount. He said Rs 5 crore were distributed among workers as relief and a target of Rs 22 crore have been fixed for the current fiscal to be distributed among construction workers.

Earlier, the Minister presided over a meeting of senior officers of Higher Education Department. Commissioner/Secretary Higher Education, Mrs Tanveer Jehan, Director Colleges, Dr. Muqbil Chisti, Chief Engineer, PWD Kashmir, Chief Architect, J&K, Mr. Munir Ahmad Khan, Nodal Principal Kashmir division, Senior Architect attended the meeting.

The meeting discussed the matter related to construction of 22 new college complexes across the state and their designs.

Mr. Malik said that since land for most of the new colleges has been identified and acquired, there is dire need of starting construction work.

The Minister asked Chief Architect J&K Munir Ahmad Khan to formulate a master plan to complete the construction work in three phases and with the completion of each phase, functioning of college should be started in addition of other curricular activities of the college.

Mr. Malik directed for formulation of three types of master plans like summer zone, winter zone and winter desert zone for submission to cabinet for approval.

The meeting was informed that Rs 8 crore have been earmarked for construction of each college, 11 colleges are coming up under state sector and 11 colleges under centrally sponsored scheme.

Mantaqi Sports Awantipora lifts Shah-I-Hamdan Cricket trophy

Chib announces Rs. 15 lakh for development of Stadium

'New ITI building to be made functional shortly'

SRINAGAR, MAY 09 : - Mantaqi Sports, Awantipora today lifted Shah-I-Hamdan T-20  Cricket  tournament trophy by  61 runs.

            The tournament was organized by Greenland Cricket Association, Tral which was started on May 15, 2011. As many as 104 teams of the valley participated in the tournament and played 200 matches. Mantaqi Sports Awantipora won the toss, decided to bat first and set the target of 152 runs before the Rather-11 team of Lalgam, Tral.

Minister for Youth Services and Sports Mr. R. S. Chib was the chief Guest at the final match.

MLA, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Shah was also present on the occasion.

 Speaking on the occasion, the Minister complimented the organizers and participating teams for organizing such events in the area. He said the state has ample potential in cricket and the need is to exploit it in a better way. He said the sports talent of youth should be given shape in such a way so that they could bring laurels to the state by participating at national and international levels.

 Mr. Chib said that the Government is committed to develop sports infrastructure for popularizing sports culture in the state, adding that numerous micro, medium and mega sports projects have also been taken into hand to facilitate the enthusiastic youth. He said  the playfields would be developed at block and panchayat levels under PYKKA for promotion of sports activities in rural areas.

            The Minister said that the best teams of the area would be provided sports material to exploit their hidden sports talent.

            Responding to the demands of the locals, he announced Rs. 15 lakh for the development of local  sports stadium, adding that additional funds would also be made available for its further improvement. He directed the district administration for sorting out the bottle necks causing impediment in the development of Stadium. 

 Later, the Minister gave away trophies, medals and cash prizes of Rs. 75,000 and Rs. 32,000 to winner and runner-up teams, respectively. Besides distributing individual medals, he also handed over Rs. 15,000 to man of the series and Rs. 7,000 to man of the match.

Earlier, the Minister visited Industrial Training Institute Tral and took stock of its functioning.  He also inspected the newly constructed  building of the institute. He directed the executing agency to  complete the furnishing work so that it could be made functional by next month for the convenience of the  students. He said that more trades having local potential would also be started in the institute.  

Among others, Director, Youth Services & Sports S. Jaipal Singh, Director, Technical Education Mr. S C Sawhney, Secretary, J&K State Sports Council, Kiran Wattal, Deputy Inspector General of Police South Range Mr. Vijay Kumar, senior officers of district administration besides thousands of sports lovers were present to witness the match.

500 youth of state joins CRPF during 2011.

New Delhi, May 09, 2012.

       In Jammu & Kashmir about 500 youth from different parts of the state
were recruited in CRPF during 2011.

According to sources in CRPF, a large number of youth both boys and
girls are eager to join the force for employment and with an aim to
serve their people. The CRPF is organizing free coaching camps
throughout the state as a goodwill gesture to prepare the candidates
both for physical and written test. Sources added that one such
coaching camp was recently held at Bejbihara town of South Kashmir in
which a sizeable number of youth participated . [PIB}

Saudi Arabia Keen to Get Indian Pharmaceutical Products
Saudi Parliamentary Delegation Meets Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad

New Delhi, May 09, 2012.

A Parliamentary delegation led by Dr. Abdullah Bin Mohammed bin
Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh, Speaker of Majlis Ash Shura (Consultative
Council) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia called upon the Union Health
and Family Welfare Minister Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad in New Delhi today.
The delegation is on a three day official visit to India. Shri Azad
recalled the close relations reflecting centuries old economic and
socio-cultural ties between India and Saudi Arabia. There has been an
upsurge in Indian investments in the Kingdom, especially after the
signing of the Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement during the
earlier visit of King Abdullah to India in January 2006. The signing
of Riyadh declaration also during Feb 2010 visit of Prime Minister Dr
Manmohan Singh further laid the groundwork for new era of strategic
partnership between the two countries. Shri Azad also recalled his
recent visit to Riyadh where he represented India at the funeral
ceremony of the Late Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Sultan bin Abdul
Aziz.

Talking of issues pertaining to health sector, Shri Azad shared the
Indian experience in the areas of Innovations in health care service
delivery; Interventions in making health care accessible and equitable
and our strength in producing good quality generic drugs at affordable
prices. Shri Azad noted that about two million Indians in Saudi Arabia
account for the largest expatriate community in the country. There are
a huge number of Indian doctors and nurses there too. The Minister
suggested that India could help Saudi Arabia with knowhow of setting
up medical colleges as also with medicine supplies. Shri Azad informed
that India is the 4th largest producer of pharmaceuticals in the world
in terms of volume and 13th largest in terms of value. Indian
pharmaceutical products are exported to about 211 countries around the
world. Indian pharmaceutical products have been acknowledged at many a
UN forum for their good quality, safety and efficacy, he added. He
stated that Indian generic drugs have helped bring down the cost of
immunization and treatment of various diseases worldwide. Shri Azad
particularly appreciated the excellent arrangements put in place by
Government of Saudi Arabia for the comfort of Haj pilgrims.

The leader of the delegation Dr. Abdullah Bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al
Al-Sheikh appreciated the hospitality extended by Shri Azad and said
that they would especially welcome help from India for transfer of
medical technology and also help with medical education as India
possesses the technical capacity. He said bilateral visits not only
help enhance understanding between the two countries but also help
highlight areas of possible cooperation. The delegation informed that
currently Kingdom of Saudi Arabia imports about five billion dollar
worth of pharmaceuticals. Considering Indian pharma companies are
among the world leaders, Dr. Abdullah Bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim said
they would be keen to extend the incentives given by their government
to Indian pharma industry to set up base in Saudi Arabia with the
objective of producing affordable medicines to meet local and regional
needs.[PIB]

Recommendation of Parliamentary Standing Commetteee on Defnece Preparedmess

New Delhi, May 09, 2012.


The Ministry is aware of the recommendations of the Parliamentary
Standing Committee on Defence preparedness. Ammunition in Armed forces
including Army is by and large available in adequate quantities. The
Armed forces remain in a state of operational preparedness to meet any
eventuality. Recommendations of the Standing Committee are examined in
all earnestness and appropriate action is taken thereon.

This information was given by Minister of Defence Shri AK Antony in
written reply to Shri Tarun Vijay in Rajya sabha today. [PIB]

Boosting Infrastructure Development Along Borders

New Delhi, May 09, 2012.


Government is closely watching all activities of China and Pakistan in
the neighbourhood and reviews the threat perception regularly.
Required measures have been initiated through development of
infrastructure, including rail, roads and forward airfields as well as
operational capabilities to achieve desired defence preparedness
through accretion and modernization and deployment of forces to
safeguard the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of
India.

The information sought is on matter of defence preparedness to
safeguard our territory and measures taken to ensure the same which
are sensitive and secret in nature and disclosure of the above details
on the floor of the House would not be in the national interest of our
country.

This information was given by Minister of Defence Shri AK Antony in
written reply to Shri Prabhat Jha and Shrimati Kusum Rai in Rajya
Sabha today. [PIB]

Russian plane goes missing in Indonesia, 50 people aboard 

JAKARTA: A new Russian-made civilian plane carrying 50 people went missing in Indonesiawhile flying over mountains Wednesday during a demonstration flight for potential buyers and journalists, officials said. 

Search and rescue teams were heading to the area just south of the capital, said Bambang Ervan, a spokesman for the Ministry of Transportation. Bad weather, however, forced at least two helicopters to turn back. 

The Sukhoi Superjet-100 took off from Jakarta'sHalim Perdanakusuma Airport at 2:21 p.m. 

It dropped off the radar 21 minutes later near the Salak mountain range, after the crew asked air traffic control for permission to descend from 10,000 feet to 6,000 feet (3,000 meters to 1,800 meters). 

No explanation was given for the sudden change of course. Though drizzling at the time, it was not stormy. 

"I saw a big plane passing just over my house,'' Juanda, a villager who lives near the 7,200-foot- (2,200-meter)- mountain, told the local station TVOne. 

"It was veering a bit to one side, the engine roaring,'' she said. ``It seemed to be heading toward Salak, but I didn't hear an explosion or anything.'' 

Rear Marshal Daryatmo, chief of the national search and rescue agency, said several diplomats from the Russian Embassy, potential buyers from major Indonesian airlines and journalists were on board what was supposed to be a 50-minute demonstration flight, the second of the day.

Together with the Russian crew, the plane was carrying 50 people, said Sunaryo, from PT Trimarga Rekatama, the company that was responsible for the guest list. Like many Indonesians, both Sunaryo and Daryatmo use only one name. 

Though the air search was called off by early evening, soldiers, police and members of the air force had joined the land-based rescue efforts. They were expected to continue through the night, but the terrain was rough and difficult to navigate after darkness fell. 

``Hopefully they'll be able to reach the location tonight,'' Daryatmo said. 

Developed by the Russian aerospace company Sukhoi in co-operation with Western partners, the plane is the first completely new airliner designed by Russia since the Soviet collapse. 

Russia has hoped that the short- to mid-range jet, which made its maiden run in 2008, would help it break into international markets dominated by Boeing and Airbus. 

It was on the fourth stop of a six-nation ``Welcome Asia!'' road show after having already been to Myanmar, Pakistan and Kazakhstan. It was supposed to head next to Laos and Vietnam.  

Most Europeans oppose Iran oil sanctions: Poll 

A new poll conducted in five European countries shows most people are against imposing sanctions on Iran's oil sector.

A total of 2,100 adults in Germany, France, Austria, Sweden and Poland responded to the poll which was conducted by the German Marshall Fund via phone, April 23-26, 2012. 

The results were made public on May 2, 2012. 

Asked whether they were for or against Iran oil sanctions, 61 percent of respondents said they opposed the bans while only 35 percent favored them. Also, four percent said they had no idea. 

Foreign minister of the European Union (EU) member states met in Brussels on January 23 and approved new sanctions against Iran which forbid member countries from importing Iranian crude or doing business with its central bank. 

The EU sanctions against the Iranian oil sector will come into effect on July 1. Tehran has already cut oil exports to several European countries as part of its countersanctions in response to the EU measure. 

The Western bloc says the sanctions are aimed at crippling the Iranian economy. However, Tehran says such acts have already backfired and led to higher prices in the global oil market. 

Public opinion and mass media in Europe have bitterly criticized the EU governments' measure in banning oil imports from Iran. 

People are concerned about high fuel prices resulting from an Iran oil ban and its negative effects on the economic situation of their countries which are already struggling with a crippling economic crisis. 

Critics say imposing sanctions on Iranian crude will have no effect as the country can find other customers and ways to head off the impact of the sanctions.