Shifting children’s hospital a mistake: Omar

‘Pakistan disallowing flights over its airspace’

While speaking to civil society members at the SKICC here, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that shifting the Children’s hospital from Lal Ded Hospital to G.B. Pant hospital was a bad decision. He also blamed the failure on part of the hospital management to report the condition and status of the hospital for making things worse at the hospital.

“As soon as I received the details of shortcomings in the hospital, immediate measures, both on administrative and service delivery disciplines were taken and we expect improvement within days”, he said adding that a capable Medical Superintendent has been made in-charge of the hospital besides taking corrective measures required for the improvement it’s functioning.

He said the shifting of children hospital from Lal Ded to G. B. Pant hospital was not in fact a good decision. “It not only made the hospital distant but reduced the bed strength from 180 to 110. We are now constructing a new children hospital near SMHS hospital on modern lines. This will help to dovetail the facilities and reduce the distance of children hospital from Lal Ded”, Omar declared.   

On international status of Srinagar airport, Omar Abdullah said that in fact denial by Pakistan to allow flights from Srinagar over their air space to foreign countries has put big question mark to this prestigious programme. “This is strange that our neighbor is allowing flights from any state of India over their air space excepting Jammu and Kashmir. We hope the better relations between the two countries will help to remove this bottleneck so that people in Jammu and Kashmir get benefitted equally”, he said and expressed hope that the friendship ties between the two countries would get further strengthened.

Omar said that in his recent meetings with Union leadership including Prime Minister and Home Minister, he has underlined the need of reducing the security checks at Srinagar airport which were imposed at the time when militancy was in peak. “Situation is now reverse demanding re-looking of the aspect to make travel of people of the state and the visitors hassle free”, he said adding that cumbersome searching and burdensome security checking need to be eased in changed circumstances now.

“I have also talked with Union leadership about the need of giving total control of Srinagar civil airport to Civil Aviation Authority relieving Air Force from the job. This would further help to restore the civil status of Srinagar airport”, he said and maintained that he would continue to advocate and work for this proposal. However, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction over the enhancement of flying schedule which begins at 7 in the morning and ends at 5.30 p.m. He said this has helped the visitors and air passengers a lot.

“My government is not in favour of imposing any hardship on people on the electricity count. We want to improve the supply position and provide quality power. You have to support me by making people aware of their responsibility of paying the fee as per the consumption made”, he said identifying the benefits of water usage tax imposed by his government on the power companies.

The Chief Minister patiently heard the views of the eminent civil society members and assured that their views would be given due consideration while formulation policies and making decisions on development front.

Will carry forward mission of my father: Bilal Lone

‘No change in Hurriyat’s stand on Kashmir issue’

Langate (Kupwara), May 22 (VOS): Peoples Conference Chairman, Bilal Gani Lone Tuesday said that he has joined the ranks of Hurriyat to carry forward the mission of his late father Abdul Gani Lone.

Addressing a huge public rally here to commemorate the anniversary of Shaheed-e-Hurriyat, Abdul Gani Lone, Bilal said, “I have joined the freedom struggle to take the mission of my late father to its logical conclusion. Lone sahib struggled all his life for the sake of Kashmiri people and ultimately sacrificed his life for the same cause.”
Bilal who is executive council member of Hurriyat (M) said that Kashmir issue can be solved when India, Pakistan and Kashmris will sit together to find the lasting solution of the problem. “Hurriyat isn’t against the trade between India and Pakistan and other confidence building measures. But at the same time we want to convey that it can’t be substitute to solve Kashmir issue. Both India and Pakistan should pay more attention towards solving Kashmir issue rather than focusing on other issues,” he added.

The PC chairman rubbished the rumors that Hurriyat (M) has made any change in its stance. “There is no question that anybody would be allowed to make sellout of the sacrifices of martyrs. There is no change in Hurriyat’s stand related to Kashmir issue. Our stand is clear and Kashmiris are fighting for their rights. They can’t be suppressed by force,” he vowed.

Lashing out at the state government, Bilal said, “There policy is divide and rule. But Kashmiris are well aware of there tactics and they won’t succeed. That time is over when they would suppress Kashmiris by force,” he added.

Bilal lashed out at those forces whom he said were making false propaganda against Peoples Conference. “Those who are making false propaganda against the PC aren’t well wishers of people,” he said.

Bilal vowed that unity of the Hurriyat would be maintained at any cost.

Speaking on the occasion, senior Hurriyat (M) leader, Prof Abdul Gani Bhat said that he stands by his statement related to UN resolutions on Kashmir. “Solution of Kashmir issue can be achieved through tripartite talks. However, there is dire need to involve Kashmiris in such talks without which it would be useless,” he said,

Bhat said that there was no division within the ranks of Hurriyat. “We all are one. Hurriyat isn’t anybody’s fiefdom,” he added.

Govt sabotaging ‘Hafta-e-Shohda’: Hurriyat (M)

‘Public sentiments hurt’

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): The Hurriyat Conference (M) has blamed the government for sabotaging the joint programmes announced by the conglomerate and the Awami Majlis-e-Amal to mark the anniversary of Mirwaiz Mohammad Farooq on June 21 at Eidgah.

“The government was so frustrated that they placed APHC chairman, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, under house arrest. They also detained Hurriyat and Awami Majlis-e-Amal activists and workers. Besides, the police several times raided Mirwaiz Manzil and ransacked the office”, read a statement issued by the spokesperson of Hurriyat Conference.

Alleging the police of ransacking and attempting to desecrate the religious scriptures there, the conglomerate has condemned such actions.

“The police even attempted to desecrate the 600 year old sacred book, vital hadith documents, Quranic nuskas, and other precious historical books”, said the Hurriyat spokesperson.

The spokesman while condemning the police action said that according to him the Mirwaiz Manzil is Kashmir’s honor as it has played a significant role in Kashmir’s political, religious and social affairs. Apart from this, the spokesman said the Manzil has historical importance associated with it.  

Castigating the government, spokesman made it clear that the public sentiments have been immensely hurt due to government action which is highly unacceptable for to the people of Kashmir.

Credit for peace goes to people: Omar

Vows his endeavour for peaceful, progressive J&K

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday said that the credit for the prevailing peace in the state goes to the people of the state. He also asked the civil society to render its wholehearted support to the government in maintenance of tranquility which could help carry the peace dividends to every area in the shape of development and economic welfare.

“Despite excuses provided to create law and order situation, it is highly laudable that people denied to fall prey to the hands of vested interests and assured peaceful situation to prevail in the state especially in the valley”, he told the prominent members of the civil society at a marathon interaction session at the Shere Kashmir International Convention Centre here which lasted for about five hours.     

Chief Minister expressed satisfaction over the positivity of the situation and people’s determination to help maintain peace in the state. He said that it was heartening to note that for the first time during the last three years the members of civil society did not raise any issue relating to the misuse of power or high handedness by security forces in this level of interaction session.

“In a similar level of meeting last year held in this hall you were apprehensive about the law and order situation and your main focus was on this subject. In contrast to that you today concentrated on development side and also praised various initiatives of the government taken for peace and development in the state which is indeed encouraging”, he added.

“Government would devote fullest attention in maintaining peace and carrying forward development agenda with commitment and missionary zest”, he said and asked the hand of civil society in this stupendous task. He expressed the hope that peace will further root and economic prosperity flourish extensively.

“You have seen the benefits of peace by witnessing holistic development in all sectors with highest tourist boom. It also paved the way for removing 40 bunkers alone from Srinagar city and many more in other parts of the valley. It also helped to reduce the number of security forces”, he asserted.

Omar referred to the historic initiatives taken by his government in the shape of enactment of Public Service Guarantee Act (PSGA), Right to Information Act, Third Party Monitoring of development projects, e-Tendering and e-Procurement aimed at bringing the transparency in the functioning of administration and making government answerable to common people.

Police diffuses grenade in Langate

Mirwaiz stopped; Had inputs of sabotage by militants: Police

Handwara, May 22 (VOS): Police on Tuesday diffused a live grenade in Langate area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district.

Reports said the grenade was found near a police vehicle. A rally held by Hurriyat Conference (M) in connection with the Hafta-e-Shohdato commemorate anniversary of Abdul Gani Lone and Mirwaiz Molvi Farooq was going on one kilometer away from the place.

The grenade, however, did not explode and was later disposed off by the bomb disposal squad.

Eyewitnesses told VOS, that the incident took place almost one kilometer away from the venue of the rally.

Superintendent of Police Handwara, Mohammad Aslam Chaudray told VOS that Police had inputs about the sabotage already and claimed that the venue was completely sanitized.

Asked if the Police had the inputs then how could the incident occur, Chaudary said, “It is precisely because the venue was sanitized and they could not carry out the attack at the venue. We had inputs that Lashkar militants could target the rally either with a grenade, an IED, or could open fire from some nearby building, following which we intensified our vigil”, the officer claimed.

He added that metal detectors were put in place and personnel were deployed at crucial points.

However, he admitted that Police can not provide the security cover beyond certain point in such circumstances. “There was the inflow of people from Lolab, Mawar, Trehgam, Rafiabad, Baramulla and various other areas. We, despite having limited resources, not only provided quality security at the venue but also ensured a tight vigil along the internal routs as well”, Chaudhary added.

He, however, refused to accept that there was any security lapse. “You can not say this was a security lapse as we did not even allow militants to come close to the venue”, he added.

Meanwhile, Police on Tuesday stopped Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq from going to Langate to attend the rally. Mirwaiz was reportedly told by Police that they have got some inputs of sabotage; hence, according to the police, they could not allow him (Mirwaiz) to proceed to the venue.

Later DIG Central Kashmir Range, Afadul Mujtaba confirmed to VOS that police had inputs that Mirwaiz’s security was at stake due to which police stopped him from proceeding towards Handwara.

“We did it for his (Mirwaiz’s) safety,” Mujtaba told VOS, adding that the police wanted to protect Mirwaiz.

Masoodi should not trespass hi mandate: Tarigami, Yasin

“You are administrator, not spokesperson’

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): Taking a strong exception to a media statement given by Dr Muneer Masoodi, the new G B Pant medical superintendent, CPI (M) State Secretary Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami and PDF Chairman Hakeem Mohammad Yasin, have said that Dr Masoodi has been appointed to take care of administration and not for working as a spokesman of the ministry of medical education.

Terming Dr Masooid’s interaction with media on Monday as a move to neutralize the burning issue of infant deaths at G B Pant hospital, the two leaders have said that his statement is a justification for the ever increasing infant mortality in the hospital.

“Even a common man knows about the mess in the G B Pant hospital which has mainly contributed to the increasing number of deaths of infants but the medical superintendent  has tried to become more loyal than the king,” Tarigami and Yasin said in a joint statement issued here today.

The two leaders further advised Dr Masoodi not to trespass his mandate and leave the justifications and clarifications to the state government, which is yet to receive the inquiry report from Dr Showkat Zargar.

The two leaders maintained that Dr Masoodi’s statement on 100 per cent staff attendance is bizarre as this attendance has been enforced for the last few weeks since the hospital is in news for its dismal record. 

Educated people will improve politics: Mehbooba

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): Welcoming the entry of educated and respectable people into her party the Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti has said that entry of such people was a valuable addition into the party fold and promised to help political empowerment of the far flung areas of the state.

According to a PDP press release, a large number of respectable and prominent citizens of Karnah Tuesday joined the Peoples Democratic Party. The new entrants, according to the statement, include Kh Mohd Farooq (Rtd. Supdt. Engineer), Kh Ab Majeed Bandey (Rtd. Joint Director), Kh Farid uddin ( Rtd Chief prosecution Officer), Kh Ab Waheed , Haji Gh Hassan, Kh Mohd Farooq, Ab Qadoos Kanth, Mohd Amin, Ab Hameed, Kursheed Anwar, Dr Mohd Abass, Kh. Bashir Ahmed and Kh Gias uddin . On this occasion party leader Mohd Afzal Wani was also present.

Mehbooba said the entry of such well educated and responsible citizens into the party would enhance not just its prestige but also its capacity to serve the common people.

Speaking on this occasion the leader of the group Kh. Mohammed Farooq said that they were impressed with the multi-dimensional agenda of the PDP. He said that the PDP had focused on resolution of Kashmir problem, a component of which was the reopening of routes across LOC and had provided new opportunities of growth to border areas. He said, the party during its brief tenure in power, had started a new development process of which Karnah too had become a beneficiary.

He said the people of the state and especially those living in sensitive border areas received a sigh of relief after 2002 as a result of the healing touch policy of PDP. This he said had greatly restored the self respect and dignity of the people in those areas and had revived the civilian authority in administration. Expressing their commitment to the party agenda and its leadership and said that they would work for strengthening the party and expanding its massage and influence.

‘Illegal land grabs, constructions in Gulmarg’

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): According to latest revelations, many illegal hotels and guest houses have come up at Gulmarg a huge quantum of land has been illegally occupied by some influential elements. Chief Executive Officer Gulmarg Development Authority has confirmed the illegality of one such hotel and said that the authority will demolish the structure of the hotel after getting permission from the court of law.

Sources revealed to VOS that after enactment of the Roshni Act, many influential traders and businessmen have fraudulently got possessions of state land at Gulmarg and many of them are even building up hotels on the land without getting any clearance from the authorities. More so these occupants have not even bothered to register their hotels with the authorities.

While talking to VOS, Executive Officer Gulmarg Development Authority Mehmood Shah has confirmed that a hotel under the title ‘Green Park Hotel’ is being built illegally and without seeking any permission from the tourism authorities. “One hotel namely Green Park hotel is being built illegally without any registration or permission from the tourism department” said the officer.

“We have lodged an FIR against the hotel owner and a case is pending against him in the Tangmarg counrt. We will demolish the hotel structure once we get the permission from the court”, assured Shah.

Meanwhile, sources have revealed to VOS that many influential people have illegally registered many kanals of land by misusing the Roshni Scheme, launched in the state during the Chief Ministership of Gulam Nabi Azad.

Focus on accessibility to scientific studies: CM

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Tuesday described youth of Jammu and Kashmir as talented human resource capable of bringing in much sought after transformation in the socio-economic scenario, which will help in laying a strong edifice for lasting peace and prosperity in the state.

In an interaction session with the students of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University after laying foundations and inaugurating various facilities, the Chief Minister asked them to devote fullest attention to their studies and prove their mettle in the practical field after completion of their degrees.

Omar Abdullah said that his government has focused on introduction of subjects of marketability and modern utility in the higher education institutions to prepare befitting and qualitative human resource to lead in all fields of Science and Technology. He said that the reach of advance learning and higher education has been enhanced all across the State by opening new institutions and upgrading existing ones. He said accessibility to higher and technical education is now within the possible range of every student intending to peruse higher goals in different fields of modern studies.

Omar Abdullah said that various universities and their campuses functioning across the state are becoming hub of higher education. “Our aim is to further strengthen their status by providing all help from the government side”, he said adding that qualified faculties and appropriate laboratories and latest study material play vital role in the success and delivery of higher education. He stressed on focusing on these issues and creating of learning atmosphere in the campuses.

Omar answered different questions of the students relating to various aspects ranging from education, development, society and economy.

The Chief Minister inaugurated the faculty residential accommodation involving estimated cost of Rs. 50 lakhs. He laid foundations of health centre, laboratory block, crore workshop, boys hostel, students Amenities Centre Academic Block for Arts and Social science.

Minister for Higher Education, Abdul Gani Malik was also accompanying the Chief Minister.

Army foils infiltration bid

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): Army has foiled an infiltration bid from across the line of control on the intervening night of 21st and 22nd May in Gambhir area.

According to army spokesperson, at around midnight on night 21 / 22 May, troops deployed in the Gambhir Area on the Line of Control, observed that three to four persons armed with weapons were moving towards the LoC fence. “On being challenged from the nearest army post, the persons fired on the post.  In retaliation troops also opened fired on them”, said the army spokesperson

“The exchange of fire continued for 30 minutes approximately. There was no casualty to the troops, in the exchange of fire”, he added 

According to army, the body of a suspected militant was found in the bushes in the area during a morning search operation. “Efforts are on to establish the identity of the militant”, the spokesperson informed

According to the army statement, search operation for weapons is in progress as area is under dense vegetation. “It is a distinct possibility, that the weapons of the slain millitant were carried back by his retreating accomplices, which is usually their modus operandi”, added the spokesperson.

Mufti optimistic about Indo-Pak dialogue

Demands hassle free cross-LoC trade

Gool, May 22 (VOS):  Reiterating his demand for providing requisite facilities to facilitate the cross LoC trade, patron of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today hoped that some concrete steps would be taken in the coming Indo-Pak home secretary level talks to ensure hassle free cross LoC trade and travel.

Addressing an public meeting at Gool in Ramban district, Sayeed stressed the need for credible banking facilities and proper communication system to harness the full potential of the trans-LoC trade. He said that opening of cross LoC trade was the most significant and historic Confidence Building Measure which needed to be further facilitated in the larger interest of the peace and prosperity in this region. “I hope that Home Secretaries of India and Pakistan in their schedule meeting on May 24 and 25 would take some bold steps to further facilitate the cross LoC trade and travel”, he said and observed that restrictions imposed on free movement of people and commodities have only deprived the region of the vast potential of economic activities that could have changed socio-economic conditions of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

“Besides simplifying the cross LoC trade procedure,  there should be free movement of people on both sides of LoC because cooperation on economic, social and cultural fronts is the only way to bring the people of the subcontinent together”, he observed and reiterated demand of his party to open all traditional routes on fully exploit potential of this region.

He reminded that people of the State were gripped with fear psychosis and there was a sense of insecurity when PDP was formed. “We not only provided security to the people but also restored dignity and honour to common masses”, he said and recalled that in 2002 elections PDP had only 16 members but the party changed political discourse of the State and scripted a new chapter peace and development in the history of Jammu and Kashmir.

“2002 assembly was turning point in the history of Jammu and Kashmir because confidence of the people in democracy and democratic institutions was restored after that elections”, he said and added that successive National Conference regime have never allowed democracy to flourish in this State. He said that unlike other parts of the country, people of Jammu and Kashmir had never enjoyed taste of the democracy before 2002 because those who were at the helm of the affairs in the State had brazenly undermined democratic institutions. He especially mentioned the infamous 1987 rigged assembly elections which had completely shattered peoples’ faith in the democracy.

Will always protect Article 370: NC

’28 Panchs, Sarpanchs join NC’

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): National Conference spokesperson and party general secretary Advocate Sheikh Nazir Ahmad has said that National conference is the only party in the state which has representative character in all the three regions of the state adding that his party will protect the article 370 at all costs. He also said that the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to ensure equitable development of all the three regions

Sheikh Nazir said that the party leadership restored democratic rights of the people, adding that no one can forget the contribution of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah who, according to him, gave voting rights to the people to choose their leaders.

Sheikh Nazir said that with article 370, our state holds a special status unlike the other states and that many vested interests are trying to weaken this position promising that NC leadership will never let anyone dilute that position.    

Stating that many political parties have only one agenda and that is to weaken the National Conference at the grass root level the General Secretary said the people will defeat them always as they have done in the past as well.

“The enemies of National Conference are aware about the fact that National Conference is the only party that protects the political rights of the people. The people must remain cautious and at the same time ensure that party is strengthening at grass root level,” said Nazir.

According to a press statement issued by National conference here Tuesday, 28 sarpanchs and panchs belonging to the rival Peoples Democratic Party have joined the National conference at Aishmuqam in Anantnag district in presence of party provincial president Ali Mohammad Dar

Dar, while addressing said that an era of development has started since Omar Abdullah took charge of state. On the occasion 28, Sarpanches and panches belonging to PDP joined NC. The new entrants expressed their faith with NC leadership that hoped that the problems of rural areas will be solved on priority bases, claimed a press statement issued by the party

 Joint provincial secretary National conference, Ghulam Nabi Bhat also attended the function.

Governor releases “Shaikh-ul-Alam: Kashmir Revisited”

Calls for bringing J&K on literary map of the country  

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N Vohra Tuesday emphasized the urgent need for creating a corpus for the promotion of philosophy, literature, writings and poetry of Shaikh-ul-Alam. Vohra called the sheikh as a great multi-dimensional sufi-saint, social reformer and renowned spiritual personality of Kashmir.

The Governor said this while releasing “Shaikh-ul-Alam: Kashmir Revisited”, a book in English language written by Dr. Farooq Fayaz, at a function organized by the Adbi Markaz Kamraz in collaboration with the Allama Iqbal Library,  Kashmir University, here Tuesday.

Governor N N Vohra, who is the Chancellor of the Kashmir University, advised the Vice Chancellor that an organized effort be made for collecting poetry, literature or any other write-ups on Shaikh-ul-Alam, and documenting, preserving and translating these in various languages for the over all benefit of society. He observed that Shaikh-ul-Alam, also known as Nund Reshi, had believed in what he had preached, adding that Kashmir University can contribute in a big way in disseminating his message of peace, harmony and pluralism.

The Governor called upon the writers, intellectuals and academicians to contribute for restoring the pristine glory of Kashmir as a seat of knowledge and learning and bringing J&K on the literary map of the country.

The Governor congratulated Dr. Farooq Fayaz for writing a well-researched book on Shaikh-ul-Alam.  

Referring to the excellent recitation of versus of Shaikh-ul-Alam by Miss Musarat, a 7th class student from Chrar-i-Sharief, on this occasion, the Governor suggested to the Vice Chancellor of the Kashmir University to arrange a scholarship for her. He announced a cash award of Rs. 10,000 for this young girl for the brilliant recitation of verses of Shaikh-ul-Alam.

Referring to the demand put forth by Dr. Shujaat Bukhari, General Secretary, Adbi Markaz Kamraz, regarding the violation of the autonomy of the J&K State Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, the Governor said that he would address the Chief Minister in this regard.           

Prof. Talat Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, Kashmir University, said that the scholars can benefit from the Shaikh-ul-Alam Chair set up at the University by taking up research work on identified facets of the life and teachings of this poet-saint.  

Dr. Farooq Fayaz, Director, Academic Staff College, University of Kashmir, and the author of the book, explained the aims and objects of writing this volume.  

Dr. Mufti Mudassar, Assistant Professor, Department of English, Kashmir University, presented a critical review of the book on the occasion.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Dr. Aziz Hajini, President, Adbi Markaz Kamraz, gave details of the activities of his organization.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Shujaat Bukhari, General Secretary, Adbi Markaz Kamraz, thanked the Governor for releasing the book and taking keen interest in the promotion of literary and cultural activities in the State.    

Prof. Riyaz Rofai, Chief Librarian, Kashmir University, presented a Vote of Thanks.

Among those present on the occasion were Farooq Nazki, Media Consultant J&K Government, Heads of Departments, Deans, Faculty members, intellectuals, writers, media persons, functionaries of the Adbi Markaz Kamraz and students.

Bedi Commission announces timing of sitting

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): According to the Secretary to the Commission of Inquiry, headed by Justice H. S. Bedi, the timing for sitting of the office of the Commission shall be from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. on all working days and on all holidays, if necessary.

Despite declined militancy, police to remain vigilant: Khoda

‘Police role in maintaining peace appreciable’

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): Director General of Police Kuldeep Khoda has said that Jammu and Kashmir Police has succeeded in bringing peace to the state after facing tough challenges of militancy. He said that the militancy graph has declined but the force has to remain constant vigilant to face any emerging situation effectively.

Khoda was addressing jawans and officers at a police durbar held at District Police Lines here today. He said that the jawans and officers of the force faced many challenges and have come up to the expectation of the people in safeguarding their lives and properties.

Emphasizing that public service is the prime duty of Jammu and Kashmir Police, he reiterated that safety of human lives and public property would remain among the top priorities of the force. He said that with the active cooperation of the people, the force has succeeded in bringing peace in the State and it would continue with its endeavour to maintain peace at all levels. Stressing for further improvement in professionalism, he said that police has acclaimed heights of success in different fields of policing with the cooperation of people.

Expressing his satisfaction over the security scenario in the state, Khoda said that a sense of security was prevailed in the minds of the people and the State is witnessing an atmosphere of peace and development. People carry out their activities in a secure atmosphere now, he added.  

Appreciating the role of jawans on anti-militancy front in the districts of Anantnag, Awantipora, Ganderbal, Handwara, Pulwama Srinagar and Sopore in Kashmir province, Khoda announced cash rewards for the personnel for their gallantary role in saving human lives and public properties while fighting the militants in various operations in these districts. He stressed upon the jawans to serve the people with more dedication.

During the durbar, the DGP was accompanied by Additional Director General of Police S.P. Vaid, Inspector General of Police, S.M. Sahai, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Central Kashmir Range, Ahfadul Mujtaba, AIG (Personnel) PHQ, Ghulam Hassan Bhat, SSP Srinagar, Ashiq Hussain Bukhari and other senior Police officers.

DC Anantnag stresses effective public delivery system

Srinagar, May 22 (VOS): Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Farooq Ahmad Shah in his first meeting with the district administration stressed for the punctuality and target oriented execution of developmental works in Anantnag district. He stressed for immediate redressal of problems faced by people and informed that an effective grievance cell will be established in the district which will become a benchmark in redressal of public problems related to horticulture ,agriculture, animal husbandry ,sheep husbandry ,revenue, CAPD and power sectors of the district.

He also advised the officers of different departments to ensure punctuality in their offices and in other subordinate offices. Shah strictly instructed the officers not to leave the station without the information of the Deputy Commissioner and ensure that public is heard.

He also stressed the officers to ensure accessibility to public round the clock. He further stressed that public service guarantee act should be strictly adhered to and new schemes which can generate employement for the youth of the district should be framed by extending credit and other such facilities to the youth.

The officer also visited the hospitals of Bejbehara and Anantnag taking stock of ongoing work on 300 bed hospital which is being constructed at the cost of 59.50 crores and he stressed the engineers to complete the project on time and ensure its timely completion.

The DDC also instructed the local bodies and municipalities of Anantnag to start a cleanliness drive and ensure no polythene is used in the interest of a clean Anantnag.

Bhalla takes stock of facilities for KheerBhawani Mela at Tulmulla

Locals keen to welcome pilgrims on May 29

SRINAGAR, MAY 22:  In order to check personally the arrangements made by the District Administration Ganderbal and Dharmarth Trust for ensuing Kheer Bhawani mela, the Minister for Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Mr. Raman Bhalla on Tuesday visited Tulamulla and took stock of the various measures put in place for the devotees.

The Minister was accompanied by the District Development Commissioner, Ganderbal Mr. Showkat Ahmed Mir, Assistant Commissioner, Revenue, ACD, Engineers of R&B, PHE, PDD, CAPD, and other concerned Departments.

On the occasion, a number of locals met the Minister and expressed their keenness to welcome and greetings the devotees on the Kheerbhawani Mela which is a hallmark of thousands of  year’s old Kashmiri ethos and culture .

Mr. Bhalla praised the majority community for extending their full cooperation and support to encourage the Kashmiri Pandit Migrants especially the employees of the said community for settling in the valley and work with their brethren in every nook and corner of the Valley without any fear and hoped that the safe return of whole migrant pandit community will take place in the near future.  

 The Deputy Commissioner briefed the Minister about all the arrangements already put in place for providing every possible facility to the pilgrims coming from the different parts of the Country including from Jammu for celebrating the Kheer Bhawani mela scheduled on May 29. He informed the Minister that additional water points have been installed, adding that the Engineers of the PDD department have been directed to ensure round the clock power supply during the mela days. He also told the Minister that CAPD will keep available ration, Sugar, K.oil and LPG adequately during the pilgrimage while the Health department have been directed to provide necessary medicines with Doctors and paramedical staff, so that the devotees may not face any kind of health problem.

Mr. Mir also informed the Minister that more than four thousand blankets and some Halls at Yatri Bhawans and Dormitories’   in the premises of the Temple are ready for accommodating the yatries. He said that, if need arises, the devotees can be provided shelter in the nearby Higher Secondary School camps. He assured the Minister, that no stone will be left unturned to provide best possible facility to the pilgrims during the mela.He also said that the devotees will also be accommodated in tents.

In the meanwhile, the Minister said that 50 SRTC Buses will be kept available  at  the different Migrants camps and migrant concentrated locations at Jammu for carrying the devotees to and fro after Kheerbhawani darshan

Later, the Minister also visited Deputy Commissioner’s Office, and discussed various issues relating to the acquisition of land, identification of land for the construction of migrant transit quarters, progress of the Public Service Guarantee Act, RIT, cases if any pending against SRO 43, encroachment of Migrants land and displaying of the notices about the awareness about these the important Acts among the people.

He also visited Nuner Agriculture Farm House and other places to identify the land for the construction of the migrants quarters so that more migrants employees can be accommodated adequately and directed the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal to speed up the process in this connection.

He also discussed measures for ensuing Amarnath yatra and directed the Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal to ensure adequate facilities for the pilgrims enrooted Amarnath Holly cave yatra. He called upon the concerned departments to act in close coordination to make the annual yatra a grand success.

The Minister also distributed cheques among the farmers of Barsu and Tulmulla as compensation against the land acquired for the construction of Central University. However he was informed that so far Rs. 16 crore have already been distributed among the land owners as compensation.

Corpus fund of Rs. 50 cr earmarked for conservation, preservation of Heritage assets: Jora

SRINAGAR, MAY 22: The Government has earmarked corpus fund of Rs. 50 crore for meeting the expenditure on conservation and preservation of rich heritage assets of the State, against which Rs. 2 crore stands released, which would be invested as long and short term measures for the purpose, revealed Tourism and Culture Minister, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora, while chairing the 2^nd meeting of the members of Heritage Conservation and Preservation Authority (HC &PA) held here today.

Mr. Jora said that three heritage sites one each in Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh regions would be taken for conservation purposes under the Authority. In this regard, he directed concerned to prepare conservation plans for approval of the Government at the earliest.

Minister of State for Tourism, Culture and Home, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani  and also Vice Chairman of HC&PA was present in the meeting.

 Principal Secretary Housing  and Urban Development, Mr. Suresh Kumar, Commissioner Secretary Tourism and Culture, Mr. Atal Duloo, Director tourism Kashmir, Mr. Talat Pervaz, Consultant Tourism and Culture Mr. K. A Qadri, President INTACH, Mr. Salim Baig, Special Secretary PWD, Chief Town Planner, Director Planning, Additional Revenue, Deputy Director Archives besides other senior officers of Culture and Archives departments attended the meeting.

The meeting was informed that 651 monuments and heritage places in the State have been identified by the Archives department during 2009 and it was decided that available data would be further upgraded as per the comprehensive format devised by the Authority.

The meeting after thorough discussion approved the Draft Heritage Regulations of the Authority which will be examined by Law Department for its notification. It was informed that for this purpose a team of officers headed by former Director General of Archives and Arco-logy was deputed to Gujarat and Maharashtra States to studying their rules and regulations in vogue for conservation of heritage places in such States. It was also told that the draft regulations were published in local media for public opinion and suggestions in March 2012.

The meeting decided that line departments and INTACH J&K Chapter would be asked for expediting listing of requisite information about heritage places etc to facilitate the authority for preparation of data bank.

The meeting also discussed the issues pertaining to tentative listing of world heritage sites like Mughal Gardens in Srinagar, Hemis and Alchi Gumpas in Ladakh and ancient Buddhist site at Ambran Akhnoor in Jammu province.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Jora stressed upon the concerned authorities to take all necessary steps for making the authority more vibrant in its functioning.

He said Jammu and Kashmir is proud to have 5000 years of living traditions with enormous number of monuments, heritage places archeology sites and their preservation is on focused attention of the government. He said during past few years strenuous efforts are being made for preservation of States Cultural Legacy, adding that the enactment of Heritage Conservation and Preservation Act would further help in conserving the distinct heritage assets of the State. He said that the ancient monuments preservation Act was also updated after a gap of 19 years and rules and regulation for both the Acts are in force for the purpose at the first time. 

Govt. dovetails NRHM with PRIs

 Panchs/Sarpanchs to head VHS&NC

Rs. 3.4 Cr. released for each Committee in Ist phase

SRINAGAR, MAY 22: In a significant initiative to empower Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in the State, the Health Department has ordered that Sarpanchs/Panchs of the elected Halqa Panchayats would be the Chairmen of the Village Health, Sanitation & Nutrition Committee (VHS&NC) under National Rural Health Mission (NRHM).

The concerned ASHA/ANM shall be the Member-Secretary and concerned School Teacher/ANM/AWW as Members of the Committee with due representation to the women and weaker sections of the society, like SC, ST, OBC etc.

Announcing this decision at a high-level meeting of the officers of health department held here today, the Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma said that consequent upon the devolution of powers and functions of Halqa Panchayat, the VHS&NCs have been re-constituted with concerned Sarpanchs/Panchs as its Chairman.

 Mr. Sham said that bank accounts have been opened for every Village Committee, which will be operated with the joint signatures of the Sarpanch/Panch and ASHA/ANM. Every VHS&NC would be entitled to an annual Untied Grant of Rs. 10,000/- for utilizing the same on the village level activities like cleanliness, sanitation, health awareness activities, conduct of household surveys etc. The intention of this Untied Grant is to enable local action and to ensure that public activities at the village level receive priority attention, he added.

The Minister said that 6886 VHS&NCs have been constituted in the State so far and the funds to the tune of Rs. 3.14 crore as Untied funds have already been earmarked in favour of such Committees. This will help in empowering the PRIs and local participation in decision making about the planning of health services at gross-root level as well as its execution, said Mr. Sham.

The Minister said that it has also been decided to re-constitute the Health Sub Centre Committees in the State. Earlier, in absence of PRIs in the State, the annual Untied and AMG funds of Rs. 20,000/- each being provided under NRHM were utilized by the local Committees constituted at the Sub-Centre level.

He directed all the Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) to constitute Sub-Centre Fund Expenditure Committees under the chairmanship of the concerned Sarpanch with two representatives from every VHS&NC falling under the jurisdiction of the Sub –Centre, one being the chairperson of the VHS&NC and another member to be nominated by the chairperson and ANM as Members. The ANM will be the Member-Secretary of the Committee.

The Minister further directed that the Untied/AMG funds provided under NRHM, must strictly be utilized for urgent activities and annual maintenance of the Sub-Centres. The decision would go a long way in strengthening and empowering the Panchayati Raj Institutions in the State. Mr. Sham said adding that it will also improve the health services with participation of the common man across the State.

Hajj Conference; Centre agrees to direct Hajj flights from Srinagar

Ajaz demands additional 2000 seats to JK

            NEW DELHI, MAY 22: Minister of State for Hajj, Auqaf and Fisheries, Mr. Ajaz Ahmed Khan has been assured by the Ministry of External Affairs for operation of direct Haj flights from Srinagar Jeddha via New Delhi and vice versa. The assurance came during a conference held here under the chairmanship of Minister of External Affairs Mr. S.M. Krishna.

            The Annual Hajj Conference organized by the Hajj Committee of India was attended by the Minister of State for Hajj & Auqaf who placed and discussed various issues related to Hajj Pilgrimage from Jammu and Kashmir in the conference.

          The Minister requested the Ministry for allotment of additional quota of 2000 seats for the state during the current year in addition to already allotted quota of 5604 seats which was agreed in principle by the Ministry.

          The Minister during the discussions laid stress on the issues of accommodating pilgrims in one clusters in Makkah and Madinah in view of peculiar cultural and food habits, clearance of insurance cases and providing of death certificates to the 15 deceased pilgrims who died during 2011and whereabouts of one missing Hajj pilgrim of 2011. He was assured that the issues raised will be considered positively on priority and accordingly Director Consulate General of India has been directed to provide the requisite death certificates and expedite disposal of insurance cases accordingly.

          The Minister also placed the case of duping of innocent pilgrims by a private operator before the conference and requested that 350 seats be allotted to accommodate the duped pilgrims as a special gesture.

Continuous bad weather hampering Yatra arrangements

          SRINAGAR, MAY 22 - Unusual bad weather for last more than a week is proving to be a major problem for track clearance works and other Yatra arrangements. This was disclosed in a meeting held at Raj Bhavan under the Chairmanship of His Excellency the Governor, Shri N. N. Vohra, who is also the Chairman of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board. Among others, the meeting was attended by Principal Secretary to Governor and Chief Executive Officer, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, Mr. Navin K. Choudhary, Addl. CEO, Mr. P. P. Singh, General Manager (Works) Mr. K. G. Bamba and other senior engineering staff of the SASB and District Administration.

Giving further details, the CEO said “the weather this year is following a very highly unusual pattern. After the record snow fall during the winter, it was expected that weather would clear allowing the work to commence to clear the Yatra tracks and making other necessary arrangements at the Base Camps well in time for the Yatra. Instead, we are witnessing continuous rainfall in the Pahalgam and Baltal base camp areas and incessant snow fall in the higher reaches of Shri Amarnathji Yatra route. Even yesterday, there was snow fall not only on the entire Yatra route but very unexpectedly, some two to three inches snow came down even at Baltal Base Camp and upto Sonamarg.”

While taking note of the weather situation and resulting constraint in making headway for proper Yatra arrangements, the Governor directed CEO and all engineering personnel to prepare contingency plan for additional manpower to be deployed immediately to ensure that the track are cleared and other arrangements put in place for the Yatra to start on the announced date. The Governor also directed CEO to supervise personally the snows clearance works and all other activities on the ground in coming days.

It was also decided that the Governor and CEO, SASB will make another aerial reconnaissance of both the Yatra routes on 2^nd June and make attempt to land at Panjtarni and Holy Cave weather permitting. Pertinent to mention here that the aerial survey of Pahalgam-Chandanwari-Pissutop-Sheshnag-Panjtarni-Holy Cave route could not be done on 19^th May as Helicopter carrying the Governor and CEO was not able to proceed further than Chandanwari due to extremely bad weather condition. However, the Governor and CEO had conducted aerial survey of Baltal-Domel-Sangam-Holy Cave-Panjtarni access on 16^th May and it was observed that the entire area is still buried under deep snow.

            Later, Mr. Choudhary had a meeting with all engineers and contractors involved in clearing of tracks and making other Yatra arrangements and discussed threadbare the men and machinery required to clear the tracks and make all arrangements in shortest possible time, once weather allow the work to proceed. He emphasized the need to put in hard work by all staff, engineers and contractors to meet this challenge and ensure that arrangements are put in place at the earliest.

Omar attends dinner hosted by PM on 3^rd anniversary of UPA Govt.

Interacts with union leadership on sidelines

NEW DELHI, MAY 22: J&K Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, on the invitation of Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, this evening participated in the dinner hosted by the Prime Minister here.

Omar Abdullah exchanged wishes with the Prime Minister and other dignitaries and interacted with union leadership on the sidelines.

SP Collage observes Biodiversity Day

            SRINAGAR, MAY 22:- On the eve of the International Biodiversity Day, the Sri Pratap College under the auspices of Green Club organized an awareness programme for the volunteers of the club.

                On this occasion, the Team Leader Green Club, Prof. Humaira Qadri  stressed on the role of the students as well as academics in disseminating the importance of biodiversity and the need for its conservation.

                The Dean Academic Affairs of the college Dr. Khursheed Ahmad Khan asked the students to come forth with activity plans for preserving biodiversity.

                The Principal of the college, Dr. Nazir Ahmad Gilkar impressed upon the students to act as the ambassadors of the message for sustainable development and actively participate in the conservation of biodiversity. A number of volunteers on this occasion shared their views about biodiversity conservation.

Entrance test for MCA, M Sc, B Tech in BGSBU, Rajouri

            SRINAGAR, MAY 22: The students who have applied for B Tech, MCA, M.Sc-IT courses in Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) and whose entrance test is being conducted on June 3 and June 5, 2012 in Amar Singh College, Srinagar are informed to collect their admit cards from Regional Office, BGSB University, Hyderpora Bypass, Srinagar.

            For further details, candidates can contact 2441231 and 9419011449.

Div Com reviews inland water transport arrangement

            SRINAGAR, MAY 22: To ease the traffic pressure on Srinagar roads and provide better transport facility to commuters, a high level meeting was convened by Divisional Commissioner to discuss arrangements being made for inland water transport in Srinagar city.

            It was given out that Kashmir Motors Association who has been allotted the contract for supplying water boats, would supply three boats by the first week of June.

            The SMC authorities were asked to ensure complete sanitation on ghats and Jehlum banks.

            The meeting also discussed arrangements being made for operating Radio Taxi service in Srinagar city.

            The meeting was attended by Transport Commissioner, District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, Chief Engineer, Irrigation and Flood Control, Joint Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, RTO Kashmir, SSP Traffic Srinagar and representatives of Boat Owners Association.

80 Hectares of land brought under Organic Farming at Keller

Bio Nutrients and Bio Pesticides worth Rs 6 lacs distributed among farmers

          SHOPIAN, MAY 22: To promote Organic farming among the Farmers of remote area of Keller in District Shopian. The Agriculture department in collaboration with International traceability system Ltd, New Delhi organized an Awareness cum training camp at Keller.

                In first phase 80 Hectares of land   has been brought   under organic farming for cultivation of Maize, pulses and Vegetable crops.

                On this occasion Chief Agriculture Officer Shopian B.A. Hajam said that Agriculture Department Kashmir has started Centrally Sponsored Scheme on Adoption and Certification of Organic Farming in Kashmir with the aim for Sustainable Agriculture for better productivity through natural Bio-Inputs.

                He said that organic farming has great relevance in the present scenario and has number of benefits for the farmers including sustainability of agriculture, reduction in the input costs, Eco friendly and less hazardous. Sub Divisional  Agriculture Officer Keller M.Shafi Malik  said that under the scheme over a period of three years of organic farming will be adopted and certified on cluster basis Marketing facility will also be provided to the farmers to ensure high returns. He further said that organic farming will add to their incomes as organic food products are in great demand in the present day health conscious world.

                Dr Pervez Sr. Scientist (ITSL) highlighted the component of organic Farming which includes Crop Rotation, Composting and Integrated Pest and Disease Management. He advised farmers to use farm yard manure and Bio Nutrients as substitute for Chemical Fertilizers and Bio Pesticides as substitute for Chemical Pesticides, so as to maintain fertility and health status of soil besides to improve quality of the produce. Large number of farmers besides officers and officials of the Agriculture Department participated in the awareness camp. On the conclusion Chief Agriculture Officer distributed Bio Nutrients and Bio Pesticides to the farmers worth Rs 6 lacs who will adopt Organic Farming in their fields.

Chib reviews functioning of G B Pant hospital

12 beds allocated for critical ill patients

   SRINAGAR, MAY 22- Minister for Medical Education and Youth Services and Sports Mr. R S Chib today chaired a high level meeting of officers of Medical Education, Army, members of Joint Management of G B Pant Hospital and Civil Society convened to review the functioning of the G B Pant hospital.

                During the meeting, threadbare discussions regarding various measure for the improvement in the hospital was held and it was decided that engagement of nurses, sanitation, separate accommodation for attendants, gadgets, running of medical shop within hospital premises, deployment of adequate security personnel, introduction of slip system to restrict the free movement of unwanted persons, making functional the  Sewerage Treatment Plant, lift, toilets and installation of additional Diesel Generator set would be taken up on priority basis.

The Minister was informed that 12 Beds for Pediatrics have been made available at SKIMS- Soura that will be used for critically ill children. It was also decided that Medical Superintendent, G.B. Pant Hospital, in consultation with Joint Management Committee (JMC) will formulate a proposal for establishment of separate units of Medicine and Surgery in the G.B. Pant Hospital to cater the medical needs of civilian patients residing within the cantonment area. This was proposed in the meeting by the elected members of the Cantonment Board who attended the meeting.

Mr. Chib while addressing the meeting said that he has discussed the matter of establishment of 200-bedded Maternity Hospital at Jammu and Srinagar with the concern authority. He, however, said that the construction of 200- bedded Maternity Hospital at Gandhi Nagar, Jammu has already started and the DPRs and codal formalities are being completed for construction of 200-bedded Maternity Hospital at Srinagar. He said that 50 Kanals of land earmarked for Maternity Hospital at Bemina, Srinagar had already been taken over and it has been fenced by the Department of Health & Medical Education at an expenditure of Rs.38 Lakh, adding that an amount of Rs.5 Crore for the Maternity Hospital, Srinagar has already been released.

The members of the Joint Management Committee assured the full cooperation in bringing improvement in the functioning of the hospital.

The Minister directed the Principal GMC, Srinagar and Medical superintendent G B Pant hospital for providing quality medicines to the children.

The Minister also paid surprise visit to the G B Pant hospital last evening and took stock of the situation.  He went round various units including ICU, emergency, operation theatre and wards.

Interacting with the attendants, the Minister said that the government is making all out efforts for providing improved healthcare facilities to the children admitted in the G B Pant hospital. He said that   medicines and medical investigations would be provided free of cost to the mother and child for one month after the birth.

The Minister appealed the people to keep only one attendant with the patient and cooperate with the hospital management in keeping the hospital environment neat and clean. He stressed the need for ensuring hygienic and clean atmosphere in and around the hospital premises. He said that separate accommodation for male and female attendants would be arranged so that they do not feel any inconvenience. He said adequate measures have been taken contain spreading of infection to the neonatal. He also directed the medicos and Para-medicos for following the dress-code in the institute.   

Among others, Commissioner Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Mr. M.K. Dwivedi, Vice-Chairman, Joint Management Committee, G.B. Pant Hospital Maj. Gen. P.D. Hallur,  Vice-President, Cantonment Board, Sh. Akhtar Hussain, Principal, GMC, Srinagar Dr. Qazi Masood,  Medical Superintendent G.B. Pant Hospital, Srinagar Dr. Muneer Masoodi, member, Cantonment Board, Smt. Aisha Jameel,  Member of Civil Society, Dr. Altaf Hussain, Col. V. Patpalia, Col. R. Bakshi, besides, SSP, Srinagar and other members of the Cantonment Board attended the meeting.

DC Shopian suspends 58 employees

SHOPIAN, MAY 22: The Deputy Commissioner, Shopian today visited several offices and put under suspension 58 employees for remaining absent.

He asked the heads of these departments to take disciplinary action against these employees.

IMPCC Meeting Stresses Need For More Cohesive Relationship Between All
Media Units

Sringar, May 22, 2012

       The Inter-Media Publicity Coordination Committee (IMPCC) has stressed
the need for more cohesive relationship between all the media units of
the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the J&K State
Information Department. The meeting of the committee held at
Doordarshan Kendra Srinagar under the chairmanship of Mr. B. A. Malik,
discussed agenda points relating to different media units working in
the state.

       In his address, the Chairman of the Committee said that all the
official press releases should be routed through Press Information
Bureau for publication and coverage in media. He appreciated the
efforts of all the media units especially Doordarshan Kendra Srinagar
for giving due weightage to the themes decided by the Committee in the
last IMPCC meeting.

       Addressing the meeting, Director, Directorate of Information has
urged upon different media units that various policies of the state
government especially Sher-e-Kashmir Employment & Welfare Programme
and Public Services Guarantee Act should be publicized through
different means so that people could be made aware about these schemes
at the grass root level.

       The meeting was attended by Head of Programmes, Doordarshan Kendra,
Srinagar, Head DDK Leh, Head, Radio Kashmir Jammu, Incharge PIB
Srinagar and Jammu, Incharge DFP Srinagar besides the representatives
from Radio Kashmir Srinagar, RNU Jammu, S&DD, Air Badarwah, Kathua,
Poonch and   PRO BSNL. [PIB]

Diabetes Research Through Novel Pathways

New Delhi, May 22, 2012


The Indian Council of Medical Research has completed the Phase 1 of
Task project entitled’ ICMR-India Diabetes (INDIAB) study-Phase I” in
the rural and urban settings in four states and one union territory
viz Tamilnadu, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Chandigarh have been
included. The overall weighted prevalence of diabetes in Tamil Nadu
was 10.4% Jharkhand 5.3% Chandigarh, 13.6% and Maharashtra 8.4%. The
prevalence of prediabetes was 8.3%,8.1%,14.6% and 12.8% respectively.

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is supporting Research for
development of low cost diabetes diagnostic tools through Ad-Hoc
research program on low glycemic diet, preventive healthy life style
strategies, and studies on camel milk effect on Type-1 Diabetes. Apart
from advance research center for Diabetes research at Madras Diabetes
Research Foundation, Chennai, ICMR has also started collecting
information on prevalence and risk factor assessment through
multicenter Task force studies.

The increase in prevalence of diabetes is due to various factors
including unhealthy diets; obesity; sedentary lifestyle; ageing
population; better availability of diagnostic facilities;
environmental degradation and its impact on endocrine system etc.

The Government of India has initiated the National Programme for
Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases
and Stroke (NPCDCS) during the 11th Five Year Plan in 100 selected
districts in 21 states with the aim to prevent and control the NCDs
including diabetes through opportunistic screening of all persons
above 30 years of age and all pregnant women. So far 62,19,882 people
have been screened out of which 4,19,212 people are suspected to be
diabetic. The screening is carried out by strip method in various
healthcare delivery setups viz. District Hospitals, Community health
Centres, Sub-Centres etc. The suspected diabetic cases screened at SCs
and CHCs are further referred to CHCs & District Hospitals
respectively for confirmation and their treatment.

This information was given in written reply by the Union Minister for
Health & Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad in Rajya Sabha today.