Sincere service to people leaves lasting impression: Omar

‘Tourism development should complement environment conservation’

            SRINAGAR, MAY 26:- Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Saturday said that a well planned strategy is required to boost tourism without compromising with the conservation of environment. He said various modules are available to focus simultaneously on both these important areas.

            Addressing of the India Forest Service (IFS) Probationers in an interaction session with them here, the Chief Minister told them that reaching out to the people and making them feel that you are one among them creates lasting impression in the society.

            “There are scores of such examples of the officers who served in the State in various capacities and imprinted praiseworthy and lasting impression in the minds of people for the sincere service they rendered”, he added and told the probationers to make this approach the standard of service delivery.

            Replying questions of the IFS Probationers on the development of tourism and conservation of environment, the Chief Minister said that the aggressive marketing of tourism by Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh has badly affected the aspect of environment there. He said a balanced approach has to be put in place to develop and market tourism without compromising on the issue of environment importance.

            The Chief Minister said that the challenge in Jammu and Kashmir is in the area of creating befitting infrastructure for tourists. “We have underlined strict adherence to environment preservation and protection pre-requisite for infrastructure development in the tourist areas. The monitoring by courts has also narrow down the chances of environment degradation due to infrastructure development”, he said adding that the construction at tourist places in the past has been haphazard and there is now ban on any construction in tourist places like Pahalgam.

            Replying another question, Omar Abdullah said that timber smuggling during the time of militancy in the State has damaged the forest wealth of the State enormously. “Generation of forest takes decades. We have concentrated on rejuvenation of depleted forests under CAMPA and under various State and Centrally sponsored schemes”, he added and said that stringent laws are in force to curb smuggling of timber and illegal felling of trees. “The Forest Department is strictly enforcing these laws”.

            The Chief Minister said that the State Forest Department has identified pastures for grazing of cattle of migratory population. “Measures are in place to maintain these pastures”, he said maintaining that the cattle grazing in the mountains is being allowed in a well-planned and disciplined manner.

            In reply to a question about manufacturing of bats and supply of timber, Omar Abdullah said that timber industry and afforestation can thrive side-by-side under a balanced approach towards both. “Using of willow for manufacture of bats and supply of timber for construction purposes should keep pace with the afforestation and conservation process”, he added and said that the State government is allowing import of timber to relieve the pressure on the local plantation.

            On the conservation of Dal and rehabilitation of Dal dwellers, the Chief Minister said that a comprehensive planning has been put in place to address both the issues. He said the aspect of dependence of Dal dwellers on the Lake is being taken care of in the overall rehabilitation policy for these families.

            A group of 31 IFS Probationers are on study tour of the State to get appraisal of forest management measures and strategies in place to conserve forest wealth and the environment. The group is first in last 30 years which has visited the State for study tour.

            Chief Principal Conservator of Forests, Vinod Ranjan introduced the probationers from various States of India and Nepal to the Chief Minister. Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas and Course Director, Subash Ashtosh was also present on the occasion. 

Peace imperative for good governance, sustainable economy: Mir

            WANIGAM (PATTAN), MAY 26:- Urging the people to give peace a chance, President of Democratic Party Nationalist (DPN) and Minister for Agriculture Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir said that good governance is key for boosting the economy of J&K State.

            The Minister said this while addressing a huge public gathering at Wanigam, Pattan this afternoon. He however, maintained that without peace good governance is impossible. Mir said that people’s participation in developmental activities and other welfare programmes is very much essential for making J&K a centre of economic progress in central Asian region. “Our traditional tourism industry is wholly and solely dependent on peace where the livelihood of lakhs of people across the state is reliant on this blooming economic sector of the world”, he maintained.

            Senior leaders Mr. Hilal Ahmad Parray, Mr.Basharat Ahmad, Mr. Muhammad Ashrif and Mr. Ashiq Ahmad also spoke on this occasion. 

            Mr. Mir asserted that development is co- related with peace and added that the present coalition government has already prioritized the five basic needs Bijli, Sadak, Pani, Taleem and Sehat. Mir said that to achieve success in fulfilling these essential needs several ambitious projects have been launched in these sectors across the state for the benefit of Aam Aadmi.

            Referring to the bay gone era of disturbance in valley, the Minister said that many indispensable projects in different sectors that should have been completed years back are now being taken up under various centrally and state sector schemes to redeem the economic activity of J&K.  He said the people of valley have suffered economically, educationally and on developmental front primarily due to the unrest in this part of the world and said “ time has come for  all the stake holders to sit together for reworking a constructive strategy to make the J&K a peaceful & progressing nation”

            “With people’s cooperation particularly from youth to maintain peaceful atmosphere in valley during last one and half year, the developmental activities   have got momentum resultantly  the tourist influx into valley have increased manifold to provide livelihood to transporters, Hoteliers, Shikarawaalas, House boat owners, Artisans, Shopkeepers, Raidawalas and many others”, the Minister said. He hoped the people will continue their support for making J&K an economically prosperous state.

            Asserting that youth is our future, Mr. Mir said they have a leading role in bringing peaceful atmosphere in valley and asked them to help bringing back environment of peace to the state by taking active role in political and developmental affairs of the state. He said that present government is taking every initiative to provide them with a bigger platform, channelize their energy in positive direction and maintained that our future generation has enormous potential and are capable to face any challenge in the world. He asked them to take the responsibility of showing the path of peace & progress to the nation.

Ruhullah suspended Doctor, two sweepers

BUDGAM, MAY 26:- Minister for Science and Technology, Aga Syed Ruhullah today paid a surprise visit to District Hospital, Budgam. During the inspection, one Doctor namely Dr. Shabnam (Anaesthesiast) and two sweepers were found absent from duty.

The Minister ordered immediate suspension of these officials.

Jora inspects Budshah Hotel, directs JKTDC to complete it by June 15

SRINAGAR, MAY 26:  The work on famous Budshah Hotel located in the heart of City is apace and will be made operational in June after a gap of 26 years with all latest facilities for the tourists.

This information was given to the Minister for Tourism and Culture Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora during his inspection of the Hotel here today.

The Minister was informed that the traditional look of the hotel has being restored by using local material which included wooden Deodarcolumns, with lattice work of traditional pattern, Khatamband ceiling and local brick work. It was informed that hotel will be having four big halls with Mezana floor and parking facilities.

Taking stock of the pace of the construction work of Budshah Hotel, the Minister directed the executing agencies to redouble efforts, accelerate pace of progress on the project and complete the same by June 15.

The Minister was informed that the construction work is almost completed and 90 % expenditure out of the estimated cost of Rs. 4.10 crore has been spent so far by the executing agency, Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Development Corporation (JKTDC) on the project.

 The Minister directed the executing agencies to ensure completion of all ongoing works and complete them in a time bound manner.

The Minister was accompanied by Commissioner Secretary, Tourism and Culture Mr. Atul Duloo, Managing Director JKTDC Mr. Satish Nehru besides other senior officers of the concerned department.

Aga for channelizing the talent of youth

BUDGAM, MAY 26 – Highlighting the importance of civil society in channelizing the talent of youth in a right direction, the Minister for Science and Technology, Aga Syed Ruhullah said that community as a whole has to play its role for making them responsible citizens of tomorrow.

            The Minister said this while addressing annual parent’s day function at Government Girls Middle School, Budgam.

            He said it is the duty of parents and teaching staff to make the students aware about the responsibilities towards society and choosing better career options so that they contribute in the development of the State in effective way.

            He stressed that imparting moral education has become imperative as there has been increase in the vices like drugs, crimes etc in the society, which can save our future generation from these ill effects.

            Aga Ruhullah further said that it is the duty of teachers and guardians to infuse strong commitment and provide support to the children so that they could mobilize every opportunity in their impending carrier and also put their mark in other socio-economic activities.

 Elaborating the reformative initiatives taken by the Government in bringing a revolutionary dimensions in education sector the Minister reiterated that more measures are required to be initiated to coup up with the basic infrastructure requirements as well as providing well trained staff so that quality education is envisaged to everyone. 

            Hailing the efforts of school administration in maintain standards and quality required under basic education parameters that despite all odds and said that the necessary infrastructure would be provided to the institutions and other genuine demands would be looked into. Earlier, the Minister was presented a list of demands pertaining to school requirements those include 2^nd storey of school building, fencing of school premises, drinking water supply and furniture requirements.

The function was also attended by District Development Commissioner, Budgam, Mr. Khursheed Shah, Principal GHSS and other concerned officers, officials.

During the function students presented some scintillating performance and cultural programmes for which they were highly praised by the audience.

Rather launches-EDB Kissan Dost-a new Deposit/Loan product with OD facility

Asks Banks to improve CDR in agri sector

SRINAGAR, MAY 26: In a bid to reach out to small farmers with Bank credit facilities at their doorsteps, the Ellaquai Dehati Bank (EDB today organized a massive Kissan Loan Mela at Zaloowa Bogam village in Tehsil Chadoora, a biggest vegetable producing area in Kashmir, also known as Chotta Punjab.

The initiative is first of its kind to encourage and boost vegetable growers in an organized cluster by providing hassle free credit facility to the farmers and to make vegetable cultivation a commercially viable business activity.

The Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

EDB is a joint venture between Centre, and State Governments and State Bank of India (SBI) set up to provide lending facilities to the rural masses on priority.

Besides a large gathering of vegetables growers, the function was also attended by the Provincial President, National Conference, Mr. Ali Mohammad Dar, Chairman, EDB, Mr. A. K. Razdan, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, Mr. Javed Ahmad Shah, representatives of NABARD and concerned Bank officers.

Mr. Rather, besides distributing Kissan Credit Cards among about 500 vegetable growers of the area on the occasion, also launched a new Deposit-cum-Loan Product ‘EDB Kissan Dost’ for the small farmers under which the common man can open/maintain bank account at “no cost” and can also avail an overdraft facility up to a maximum amount of Rs 10,000 without any mortgage. Mr. Rather also distributed credit cheques sanctioned by the Bank in favour of Students and Self-Help Groups of the area.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister urged the need for providing hassle free credit facilities to the farmers to give boost to the rural economy. He asked the Banks to improve their Credit Deposit Ratio (CDR) towards agriculture sector, which he said was the backbone of the state’s economy. He said dream of a prosperous and self-reliant J&K lies in financially vibrant rural economy.

Explaining objective of the Kissan Loan Mela, Mr. Rather said “it was a sequel to the measures to take the administration at the doorsteps of the people to redress their grievances as per their urges and expectations. He said all the Banks have been instructed to improve their CDR towards agriculture so that educated unemployed youth could be provided dignified job avenues available in abundance in the sector. He said that all the Banks will be once again enjoined to enhance their CDR for agriculture sector in the ensuing State Level Bankers meeting scheduled on Monday, May 28 at Srinagar. He also referred to SKEWPY and Seed Capital Fund Scheme and asked the youth to avail benefits of these novel employment schemes launched by the present government. He said government would continue to explore job avenues in public sector to the best possible extent but the youth should get involved in self-employment ventures in a big way to earn dignified livelihood not for themselves but for others as well.

Mr. Rather appreciated the EDB for providing highest number of 31000 KCC to the farmers and offered every possible support to the Bank in its endeavours aimed at upliftment of farming community.

The Chairman, while giving a resume of the Bank said that it provides credit facilities to the people at meager 7 percent interest through its 124 Business units spread across 13 districts of the state. He said the Bank is fully computerized with all modern Bank transaction facilities including e-Banking.

He said CDR of EDB towards agriculture sector is 46 percent against 40 percent of other Banks adding that the ratio would be further improved to 50 percent during the current fiscal in compliance to the RBI Governor’s instructions.

Regarding achievements in the field of Financial Inclusion Scheme, Mr. Razdan said that the Bank has accomplished the assigned target of 35 village in this regard where-under 24000 Bank Accounts have been opened with a credit of Rs 16 crore. He said business correspondence has been started in the areas where there is no Banking facility.

He assured the Minister that the Bank will remain always on the fore- front in providing hassle free credit facilities to the farmers at minimum interest rates.

Effective governance ensured: Sagar

Lays foundation stone of BDC building, Qaimoh

KULGAM, MAY 26 – Asserting that government has ensured good governance for the effective implementation of various welfare programmes so that more and more people get benefitted, the Minister for Rural Development, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that the opposition has got frustrated and is resorting to falsehood as well as  divisive propaganda.

The Minister was addressing at a public rally at Kujar-Kulgam. Minister for Social Welfare, Ms. Sakina Itoo, District Development Commissioner, Kulgam, Mr. Jehangir Mir, Director Rural Development, Kashmir, Mir Altaf, Advocate Abdul Majid Bhat and other senior officers of district administration and senior political activists of area were present.

Mr. Sagar said Government promulgated several acts like Right to Information Act, Public Service Guarantee Act and several others by which the participatory involvement of people has been ensured in day-to-day governance. He said by these acts a common man can get the requisite services and information within the stipulated time.

While referring to the initiatives undertaken by the Government for the restoration of peace, the Minister said that we have ushered and era of peace and prosperity in the State and it is due to our efforts that the parties who were earlier advocating separatism are now raising the issues of public interest which is a healthy sign.

Coming down on the opposition parties, the Minister said that we have always preferred the interest of people over power and it is recorded history that our party has never been power hungry and have projected the cause of the State irrespective of the consequences.

Referring to the recent statements of opposition party, Mr. Sagar maintained that the people of the State are fully aware of the facts that it was during the tenure of their patron in power that several draconian laws were introduced in the State and people were subjected to several hardships. “They should not try to project themselves as champions of the people of the State instead go for introspection”, he reiterated.

Social Welfare Minister, Ms Sakina Itoo while speaking on the occasion said that the government has ensured the overall and sustain development of the State irrespective of giving any preferential treatment. She said that the people should not take heed to the false propaganda of the opposition who has always believed in negative and divisive policies.

Referring to the initiatives undertaken by the Government, Ms. Itoo said that we have introduced several revolutionary measures for the welfare of the youth of the State like unemployment stipend, SKEWPY and other schemes so that they come up in a big way.

It is pertinent to mention that an amount of Rs. 7.72 crore has been spent under MGNREGA by taken up 886 works in Homeshalibug constituency.

Earlier, the Ministers laid foundation stone of Block Development Council (BDC) Building, Qaimoh being constructed within the estimated cost of Rs. 30 lakhs.

Fish Ponds being set up in Wasarnag for generating employment avenues: Aijaz

SRINAGAR, MAY 25: Minister of State for Fisheries and Animal Husbandry Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan today said that government is contemplating to bring Waltengo health resort on tourist map of the state by developing Wasarnag and its adjacent areas so that the economy of the people gets boost and prosperity is assured.

The Minister was addressing a public meeting at Waltengo Gund today.

Announcing financial assistance of Rs one lakh for construction of main gate of the Shrine of Noor Shah Badgadi (RA), Mr. Khan said that the      government is committed to improve the lot of people living in far-flung areas and speed up pace of development on various shrines of the valley.

On this occasion, Mr. Khan directed the officers of PWD to take up repairs and renovation of road connecting the shrine with Wasarnag and also open mobile school and sheep development centre in the area.

The Minister assured the unemployed youth that 10 Fish Ponds will be set up in the area for generating employment avenues for them.

The Minister was accompanied by the Director Fisheries, Director Sheep Husbandry, Director Social Welfare Kashmir and several other sectoral officers.

Interlocutors report inspired by Saffron Agenda: Salhuddin

‘Discord amongst separatist leadership painful’

‘For UN resolutions to become obsolete, UN must be obsolete’

Srinagar, May 26 (VOS): Terming the Interlocutors’ report on Kashmir as a creation of the Saffron brigade, United Jehad Council Chairman and Hizbul Mujahideen supreme commander, Syed Salahuddin has said that the report has tried to portray the Kashmir issues as an administrative problem.

Terming the differences among the separatist leadership on the UN resolutions ‘painful’, he said ‘the UN resolutions on Kashmir will become obsolete only if and when the UN itself becomes so.’

In a telephonic interview with VOS Salahuddin said that the success of Indo-Pak dialogue is directly dependent upon the resolution of ‘Kashmir dispute’.

Voicing his support for the May 30 strike call given by Hurriyat Conference, Salahuddin urged the separatist leadership and the legal fraternity to launch a movement for ensuring that justice is done to Asiya and Neelofer and also the culprits of, “double rape and murder case” should be brought to book.

“Interlocutors’ report on Kashmir is a futile exercise aimed at dividing the state on communal and sectarian grounds. Separatist leadership’s stand on interlocutors’ role has been vindicated as the report plays into the hands of the saffron brigade. The separatist leaderships’ stand has been vindicated that it (interlocution) was a preplanned conspiracy to divide the state on religious and communal basis. It is the saffron brigade which has been demanding a separate Jammu state, Union Territory status to Ladakh to ensure that Kashmir is crushed with force,” Salahuddin told VOS.

According to Salahuddin the recently publicized report of the interlocutors has tried to portray Kashmir issue as a problem related governance and administration. “This report is trying to give Kashmir issue a new color and tries to convey that improved governance, economy, law making and social rights will solve everything,” he said adding that India through this report is trying to discredit the Kashmiri’s 63 year old struggle by giving it a communal and sectarian twist. He also alleged that the intelligence agencies were trying tooth and nail to divide the separatist leadership.

“This is not an interlocutors report but a report of the government of India and people of the state must oppose this report tooth and nail to bury this repot and not allow the designs of such divisive panels to succeed,” the Hizb chief added.

Expressing his support for the May 30 strike call of the Hurriyat Conference (G), he asked people to make it a success. “This is a tragic day in Kashmir’s history when our innocent daughters were gang raped and martyred and despite a 47 day agitation, justice was not done to the victims or the affected families,” he said adding that the Hurriyat leadership and the lawyer fraternity must ensure that justice is done to the families.

“Our memories of the tragedy are as fresh as ever, Hurriyat leadership and the High Court Bar Association must not only support the May 30 Programme but launch a popular movement to get justice for the victims. The movement should go on until the victims get justice and the culprits are identified and brought to book”, Salahuddin stressed.

Salahuddin also alleged the central government and intelligence agencies of sabotaging the freedom movement by inciting sectarian and communal violence. “The state and central government including agencies are trying to sabotage the movement by inciting communal hatred and schism among Muslims on the basis of sects and beliefs, we condemn their designs”, Salahuddin said.

“Geelani Sahab had called a meeting of 30 religious leaders and Imams to counter the communal and sectarian propaganda but the state administration and police arrested Ulema and warned others against attending the conference”, he added. He also exhorted upon Ulema and Imams not to allow the communal and sectarian designs to succeed by focusing on unity among people.

Regarding the recent remarks of a senior Hurriyat leader on the relevance of the UN resolutions, Salahuddin expressed his dismay over the recent controversy. “If there are differences of opinion on the relevance and viability of the UN resolutions among Hurriyat leaders, it is painful. These resolutions are the soul and life of our struggle, if there is such discord among us then we are ourselves uprooting the basis of our movement”, he added.

Stressing the importance of the UN resolutions Salahuddin said, “For UN relosutions to become obsolete, the UN itself has to be obsolete first .This is a commitment of international community and they have not even called them obsolete. If India wants to become a part of UN, it is a prerequisite for it (India) to implement these resolutions”.

Expressing that he has no objections to improved relations between India and Pakistan Salahuddin cautioned the two countries not to take the Kashmir issue for granted.

“Forward movement on economy, culture, people to people contacts etc is welcome but the real issue is the core issue of Kashmir. Lakhs of people have sacrificed their lives for the movement and if the two countries think of peace by trampling on them, it will not succeed”, he added.

He also said that the futile exercise like interlocution and dialogue sans Kashmir issues were a ime gaining tactics which favour India only at the cost of Kashmiris and Pakistan.

“Until Kashmir is not the core issue and all three sides, India, Pakistan and Kashmiris on the two sides are involved in a dialogue on the basis of UN resolutions, nothing is going to happen”, he said.

With regard to the discord among the various factions and units of the Hurriyat Conferece, Salahuddin said that nothing, according to him, is going to come out of short cuts at the cost of UN resolutions

“Nothing is going to come out of short cuts, everything has to be done on the basis of UN resolutions” he said adding that for unity among the separatist leadership they need to have a common ideology and agenda. “APHC constitution can even today resolve the differences among the leaders”, Salahuddin concluded. (VOS)

Government digging grave for itself: JCC

Police acted as if, it had to capture militants: Wani

To hold special meeting on Monday

Srinagar, May 25 (VOS):  Normal work in the government offices across the state remained paralyzed on the third consecutive day on Saturday following JCC’s strike call to press for their demands. At least 750 employees were reportedly arrested from different parts of the valley, including the summer Capital Srinagar, when they were trying to assemble at Press enclave for carrying out a march towards the Raj Bhawan.

Employee’s alleged that Police resorted to heavy lathi charge and excessive force was used to quell the march. “They are treating us like criminals”, an agitated employee told VOS. He said that Police has put thousands of employees behind the bars and there wasn’t any space left in the City Police stations as all of them were full in capacity with the employees detained there.

Earlier Administration had deployed Police and troops in heavy numbers on all important junctions to prevent employees from assembling. Sources added that Identity Passengers were being disembarked from passenger and private vehicles and were asked to put their identity cards on display. “They were asking us to show identity cards and those who had the departmental I-Cards were being bundled into the vans and taken into police stations.” Nisar Ahmad a passenger told VOS.

Meanwhile JCC has called a special sitting of its executive committee on Monday at 11 am to chalk out the future course of action, which will be announced on Tuesday in a press conference. Sources within the JCC told VOS JCC might call for the four day strike to build pressure on the government. However JCC leaders made it clear that the work will resume in offices from Monday.

“Our leadership has been proved, what else government wants. Despite putting us behind the bars, employees threw their weight behind JCC and carried out all the programs JCC had called  for”, Senior JCC leader Mohammad Khursheed Alam told VOS on Saturday and said that the government was inviting trouble for itself. “We never wanted confrontation but we have been pushed to take tough decisions, and if the government does not wake up, our stand will turn even tougher,” Alam asserted and added that more than 725 employees were arrested on Saturday.

Another JCC leader Abdul Qayoom Wani while ridiculing Government’s claim of being ready for talks said, “Our first round of talks went very cordial with Commissioner Secretary GAD, and we were hoping for some breakthrough. We were told that Chief Secretary will be holding the next round of meeting, but then everything changed overnight”, Wani told VOS over Phone from Kunzer Police Station, adding that Police acted as if they had to catch hold of militants. “They barged into the houses of JCC leaders at midnight, broke the doors open, and harassed the employees’ families in the dead of the night as if they had to hole out the militants”, lamented Wani. He said the government was making things difficult of itself and cautioned that the fourth phase of the strike will be an exemplary one and beyond anybody’s ‘imagination’. He cautioned the government to desist from testing waters any more.

“JCC is meeting again on Monday at 11 am to decide the future course of action but one thing I want to make clear that this time things will be worse for the government”, vowed Wani, adding that they will hold a joint press conference on Tuesday to announce future course of action. Both Wani and Alam however thanked employees for their ‘support’ and ‘response ‘to the three day strike call.

Govt’s Repressive action deserves Condemnation: Tarigami

Meanwhile CPI (M) State secretary and MLA Kulgam Mohammad Yusuf Tarigami on Saturday criticized the state government for what he calls ‘repressive’ attitude towards the state employees. “Government can’t be so repressive against its own employees” Tarigami told VOS over Phone from Patna (Bihar). He said, government must think twice before resorting to ‘repressive measures’.

Tarigami while advocating opening up the channels of communication with JCC leaders said, “Government action deserves to be condemned”. (VOS)

Ponywallas take tourists hostage in Gulmarg, resort to stone pelting

7 policemen injured.

Will cancel registrations: Dir Tourism

Srinagar, May 26 (VOS): Tourism department has decided to cancel the registrations of various Ponywallahs at the tourist resort of Gulmarg following their ‘violent’ protest against the department for allowing vehicular transport inside the meadows. “They had taken tourists including Women and children hostage for so many hours on Friday which is totally intolerable and warrants a serious action.” Director Tourism Talat Aziz told VOS on Saturday.

 “No body should think of himself above the law. We are not sparing any Ponywallah who are found involved in fuming the trouble”, Talat said adding that Ponywallahs have been given registration for facilitating tourists. “They did not get registration to cause inconvenience to tourists”, Talat lamented.

“We are identifying the people and it will take us a couple of days before we cancel the registrations of the Ponywallahs who were involved in the mess”, asserted the Director Tourism, adding that instructions have been passed on to the Officer in charge at Gulmarg to lodge an FIR against the persons who attacked the departmental vehicle on Friday.

Pertinently Gulamrg was cut off from rest of the valley for hours on Friday when Ponywallahs blocked the Tangmarg-Gulamr Road, demanding that vehicles should not be allowed to enter the meadow instead Ponywallahs should be given the sole responsibility to ferry the tourists to Bota Pathri.

Pertinently, Bota Pathri was thrown open by the state government recently for tourism activities after nearly two decades. “It is an 11 Km stretch, how can we not allow Vehicles to carry tourist there. If someone wants to ride the horse, we have no objection”, Director Tourism maintained. He said that some of the traders were even handed over to Police on Saturday at Gulmarg for ‘cheating’ tourists.

Meanwhile SHO Gulmarg Mohammad Ashraf told VOS that the Ponywallahs later resorted to stone pelting in the evening. “They pelted stones on the Police station from a nearby hillock resulting in injuries to 5 police men and 2 CRPF personnel”, he said,  3 among the Ponywallahs have also been reported to have sustained injuries.

Police had earlier dispersed the agitating Ponywallahs and thrown the road open for tourists.

Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) leader Ab. Qayoom Wani has condemned the police action on Ponywallahs and said that laborers and workers need to be taken care off.

Meanwhile Minster for Agriculture and the Local MLA, Ghulam Hassan Mir along with Deputy Commissioner Baramullah, Gh. Mohammad Khawja rushed to Kunzer on Saturday morning and held discussions with the protesting PonyWallahs. “They have agreed to call off their strike till 4th of June when we will be taking a final decision in this regard.” Deputy Commissioner Baramullah told VOS on Saturday evening. He added that an important meeting has been scheduled on that day which will be attended by Ministers for Tourism Nawang Rigzan Jora and Agriculture Minster Gh. Hassan Mir apart from Director Tourism Talat Aziz and other stake holders. “We will take a final call in this regard in that meeting” added Khawja. (VOS)

Mufti seeks people support to establish corruption free system

Demands separate tourist circuit from Chenani to Batote belt

Srinagar, May 26 (VOS): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) patron Mufti Mohamamd Sayeed today sought support of the people to change the present inept and corrupt system to bring positive change in the life of the commoners. He said that PDP, during short span of tenure, had proved how a change could be brought about in the life of the people even with a fractured mandate.

Addressing a well attended public meeting here today, Mufti reminded the gathering that PDP led regime had changed the fundamental of politics and administrative system through its conviction and commitment. He especially mentioned various developmental projects which were initiated in this belt during the PDP led regime. “This region remained neglected for decades together and it was only during the tenure of PDP led regime that various developmental projects were initiated”, he said and mentioned towards various comprehensive projects for exploring tourism potential in this belt which were started during that period.

He said that this area-which comprises parts of Udhampur and Ramban districts, has huge potential of tourism so there was a need to formulate a comprehensive policy to development new tourist destinations in this belt. He pointed out that there was an apprehension among locals that after construction of the Nashri tunnel on Jammu-Srinagar national highway this area would be ignored and sidelined. “There is a need to constitute an exclusive tourism circuit for this region connecting all tourist spots like Chenani, Mantalai, Sudhmahadev, Latti, Patnitop, Sanasar, Kud and Batote to develop this belt as separate tourist destination to divert pilgrims and other tourists towards this side”, he emphasized and observed that properly exploitation of tourism potential would change socio-economic conditions of the people. He said that instead of treating this belt as transit tourist destination, this region be development as a separate tourist circuit. He also demanded a comprehensive policy to develop Bhaderwah and famous Jai Valley as exclusive tourist destination to attract tourist from all over the world. He further demanded that adequate infrastructure should be created to develop picturesque area of Kishtwar for mountaineering because that belt has huge potential for mountaineering.

While highlighting achievements of the previous PDP led regime, the process of development was accelerated by formulating a comprehensive development policy. PDP led regime had not only created an atmosphere which was free from fear and terror, the previous government had also opened and up-graded educational institutions, spread network of new roads and many water supply schemes were started in back areas. “This we could achieve with just 16 members in the Assembly and a coalition of many parties”, he said. 

The PDP patron regretted that the atmosphere to accelerate developmental activities, which were created by the previous regime, was unfortunately wasted by the present government. It has not only brought to a halt the process of development and political reconciliation but reversed the whole process

He said that credibility of the present regime headed by National Conference (NC) has reached at its lowest ebb because this dispensation has lost faith of the common masses due to misdeeds and rampant corruption. He pointed towards recent exposure corruption cases in the coalition regime figuring involvements of ministers and leaders of the ruling party. “There is total chaos and anarchy because the present regime has failed to bring transparency and accountability in the government”, he said and corruption has sneaked from top to bottom in the administration.

Calling upon the party workers to spread message of PDP in every nook and corner of the State, he said “politics of our party is not only to attain power. Aim of our party is to restore lasting peace in this region and to establish a system where every section of the society would get justice and equal opportunities for development and economic growth”.

 General secretary of party Thakur Balbir Singh, Sukhdev Sharma, Balbir Singh, Sarpanch Mantalai, Om Parkash, Sarpanch Kusar, Swadesh Kumar, Sarpanch Sarore, Rakesh Kumar Sarpanch Bapp, Mushtaq Ahmed Sarpanch Kud, Satya Devi, Panch, Kabir Shah, R K Bali, Suresh Sharma, Capt Anil Gour, Sansar Chand, Kuldeep Singh, Balwan Singh, Rajinder Abrol, Mohammad Amin, Haji Mohammad Yakub, Jafat Ali and others addressed the rally.

In the public some political activists from BJP and NC joined PDP. Prominent among those who joined PDP included Haji Mohammad Betab, Rohit Gupta, Ajay Kumar, Ashiq Hussain, Bhushan Lal Sudhmahadev, Rattan Lal, Raj Kumar, Shanker Chand, Om Parkash Jatt, Jaman Ali and others.

Trade Union leaders in JK harassed: Tarigami

‘UPA policies culminated into Mass Unrest’

 Srinagar, May 26 (VOS) : CPI(M) State Secretary Mohammad Yusuf Traigami has said that perusal of Neo-Liberal Policies by UPA government have resulted in massive unemployment and cuts in welfare measures which resulted into mass unrest throughout the Country.

“Such approach of the GOI is a signal for all trade Union Movements in the country to get united and resist the anti-welfare policies of the govt”, Tarigami said, while addressing a rally of Bihar and Jarkhand Medical Representatives and activists.

Later talking to VOS over Phone from Patna Bihar, Tarigami said that he told the gathering that Trade Union rights were being denied continuously and labour laws were not being implemented either. “Trade Union leaders and workers are being harassed. We have witnessed such attacks in Jammu and Kashmir also”, Tarigami Claimed in his address. He , however, claimed that with the growing oppression, the trade union culture and working class resistance was also increasing manifold.

While hailing the contribution of the Medical representatives in the field of Medicine, Tarigami said, that Medical Representatives were being targeted owing to some old and traditional policy making. “We will continue our efforts to build pressure on government for betterment of medical issues”, Vowed Traigami. (VOS) 

‘Autonomy can become an antidote against animosity, mistrust’

Kashmir can facilitate the sub-continental initiatives:NC

 Srinagar, May 26 (VOS): Terming that Kashmir is a saga of broken promises, above-turns, and half hearted initiatives the National Conference spokesman Tanvir Sadiq today said while interacting with the students of Delhi University researching on Peace and conflict management, adding that because of the past experiences Kashmiris judge every move with suspicion.  “It is a dangerous trend and I am afraid the peace loving people might be the biggest casualty if the present stalemate continues” said Tanvir adding “If you want to win a race one has to take the first step, so goes the saying, but unfortunately some vested interest don’t want peace in Kashmir, else why would they delay a solution” said Tanvir

“There is a lot of hostility that one can feel but restoration of autonomy will be the beginning of a tomorrow where both the neighboring countries would be wedded into a common market” said Tanvir.

“If autonomy is restored then Jammu and Kashmir can become a laboratory for providing an antidote against the animosity, bitterness and mistrust that last six decades have created between India, Pakistan and Kashmir” said Tanvir adding that “NC is the only party which can end the animist, anger and uncertainty that last 65 years have created but for that autonomy in its entirety should be restored” said Tanvir

Commenting on the contribution of governments in 1996 and onwards from 2009 the spokesman said that we have to understand under how difficult situation Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah have been working for a political solution and all the political parties irrespective of different ideologies should appreciate how much they have achieved politically for the state and the subcontinent.

“If anyone is undermining the contribution of  Dr. Farooq Sahib and Omar Sahib then they are not only doing a disservice to the people and the state but also to their own conscience and unfortunately our myopic oppositions have this underling fear that somewhere if Omar Sahib succeeds the way he does, they will become totally redundant politically” said Tanvir, adding that “They don’t realize that twenty first century will be the century of youth and all the antiquated players hoodwinking the people sometimes with Self-rule and sometime with healing touch will be consigned to the dustbin of history”

The Spokesman said that when we talk of Kashmir imbroglio, we are talking of the mistrust and antagonism that has grown with each year over sixty four years. So, whatever the solution, the initiatives lay with the neighboring countries and Kashmir can facilitate the sub-continental initiatives.

Terming that there is a paradigm shift in world politics and sub-continental thinking as well the spokesman said that every nation has understood the futility of wars and peace initiatives are getting precedence.

“The Peace Process may experience some hiccups but it cannot be stalled forever”, said  Tanvir adding that “The NC and people will not allow that to happen, It is sad that the vested interest does not see the reality or may be it feels scared that it will have no role when there is a new dawn” said Tanvir 

Doctor alleges minister of hurting faith

Sham denies, Geelani condemns

Srinagar, May 26 (VOS): A surgeon working in the state’s Health & Medical Education department has alleged that the Minister for Health, Horticulture and Floriculture, Sham Lal Sharma passed remarks towards him which, according to the doctor, hurt the sentiments of his faith. However, the minister rejected the allegations, calling it “a conspiracy against him.”

Dr Ashraf Bhat, a senior surgeon working in the state’s department of Health and Medical Education told VOS that he had approached the minister on May 23 with a grievance that he had been refused promotion as ‘A’ grade surgeon, which, according to the doctor, is due to him. The doctor has also represented to the department with his objections to the appointment of Director Health Services Kashmir claiming that he was the “most deserving and suitable candidate for the post.”

However, according to the doctor, as soon as he approached the minister with his grievance, the minister “scolded him for wearing an Islamic outfit.”

“What is this dress all about? You look more like a criminal than a doctor”, the surgeon quoted the minister as having said.

According to the doctor Irfan Shah, MLA was present in the minister chamber when the ministers passed these remarks. Rejecting the allegations, Sham Lal Sharma said that he has not uttered one such word. “He is giving it an ugly turn. He came to me with the file and I told him that I will see to it. He is creating propaganda on the basis of religion,” Sham Lal claimed.

“This is a conspiracy against me on the basis of religions and I outrightly reject the statement of the doctor,” he added.

State Congress President Prof. Saifuddin Soz has said that he will look into the allegations and that he has asked the doctor to meet him.

Meanwhile, Spokesperson of Hurriyat Conference (G) in a statement issued here, has condemned the incident and termed it as a grave issue. He further said that the Hurriyat Conference will take notice of the issue which according to him is a direct attack on an individual’s faith. (VOS)

MLA Shangus appeals people to strengthen PDP

Srinagar, May 26 (VOS): Addressing a public gathering at Gopalpora, MLA Shangus Peerzada Mansoor Hussain appealed people to strengthen the hands of Mufti Mohammad Syeed and Peoples Democratic Party in order to ensure peace, prosperity and dignity of people.

Hussain said that development of his constituency was his first priority and he is committed to make his constituency a model for the whole state.

“Development of constitution is my first priority. My dream is to develop this constituency and create an example as far as infrastructure as development is concerned”, Hussain told VOS on the sidelines of the gathering.

MLA Shangus announced earmarking of rupees 30 lakhs different works including upgradation of HT /LT transmission lines, lanes, water supply schemes and black topping of roads.

A local Sarpanch Irshad Ahmad Khan  joined the Peoples Democratic Party on this occasion.

MLA Sangrama and senior PDP leader Syed Basharat Bukhari also spoke on the occasion highlighting the agenda of his party. He also said that the development programmes started during the government of Muft Mohammad Syed will be taken to the logical conclusion. (VOS)

ANC calls interlocutor’s report an essay on Kashmir

Srinagar, May 26 (VOS): Awami National Conference senior vice president Muzafar Shah has termed the interlocutors report on Kashmir as a mere essay on Kashmir on which crores of rupees were wasted.

“Thirty Seven Lakh Rupees per page of the 172 page centre- appointed

Interlocutors report costing a whopping Rs. 50 Crores is nothing but an essay on J&K. This three member committee should be disbanded immediately and no more people’s money should be spent on such luxuries in the future in the name of Kashmir Problem. This is the problem of the people of the State on both sides of the line of Control with Kashmir having the core significance. It is the people of J&K state , who will chalk out a course of action that will be acceptable to the people of India, Pakistan and the people of J&K ,who are the principal sufferers” said Shah in a statement.

This was stated by ANC Sr. Vice President, Mr. Muzaffar Shah, in a press

statement today in Srinagar. He said that the Interlocutors had no consent from the people of J&K State nor have the people ever demanded creation of such a committee. It is purely between the Ministry of Home affairs and the Interlocutors.We consider it a cruel joke on the people of Jammu and Kashmir. They have failedto give a concrete solution to the Kashmir problem and instead have presented confidence building measures as the solution to the vexed problem ignoring the basic fact that Kashmir is a political issue needing a political solution. This is nothing but an eye wash .he said.

I humbly accept that ,inspite of the reservations of our Party President Begum Khalida Shah, the working committee prevailed upon the party leadership to interact with the interlocutors despite bitter experiences faced by the previous leaderships of the State since 1947. Begum Khalida Shah as witness to the turbulent History of Jammu and Kashmir State , was wary of the unkept previous promises and accords that were made by centre with the people of the State. She kept on asking the fate of these accords, the recently constituted Prime Minister’s working group’s recommendations, which have been consigned to dust callously.

The ANC Sr. V.P. said that the time is right now for the people of J&K, on

both sides of the line of control to assemble in the five regions of the erstwhile State of J&K ( Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit Baltistan, Muzaffarabad) and hold the five region Intra J&K Summit as envisaged by ANC founder and Late former Chief Minister ,Mr. G.M.Shah, being pursued further by ANC Chief Begum Khalida Shah. It is the people of J&K who shall discuss the core issues of the vexed problem and come up with practically workable and politically

Police organises one day workshop for ex-millitants

Srinagar, May 26 (VOS): One day workshop with released militants conducted by J&K Police   

Srinagar, May 26: A one day workshop was organized by J&K Police at District Police Lines Baramulla, where a team of counselors, social workers and doctors of Police drug de-addiction center interacted with 150 released militants at DPL, Baramulla to assess the psycho-social needs of the affected population and to draft a plan for long term intervention, as a pact of rehabilitation policy.

In the meeting it was decided that the released militants will identify the areas, where in they will need the help of the Jammu and Kashmir Police.  

          It needs to mention that from last few months, police had various interactive meetings with released militants across valley to discuss their rehabilitations. As a part of the implementation of the rehabilitation policy, the released militants have been encouraged to make non government organisations in the districts across valley.   

Afghan protesters hold anti-US demonstration in Wardak Province

Afghan protesters have held an anti-US demonstration in the central province of Wardak, demanding the withdrawal of foreign troops from the country.

On Saturday, protesters shouted slogans against the United States and called for an end to the country’s decade-long military presence in Afghanistan

The angry demonstrators say the US-led foreign forces have set fire to a drugstore and desecrated the Holy Quran.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s parliament has approved a recently signed security pact between Kabul and Washington, which extends the US presence in the war-torn country to another decade beyond 2014.

Critics have condemned the agreement as a violation of Afghanistan's sovereignty, demanding all foreign troops leave their country by the end of 2014.

The US-led invasion of Afghanistan was launched in 2001. The offensives removed the Taliban from power, but insecurity continues to rise across the country.

The growing number of military casualties in Afghanistan has intensified opposition in the United States and other NATO member states against the protracted war in the country. 

Iran slams Western media for politicizing technical issue in IAEA report

Iran's Ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency has criticized Western media attempts to politicize a normal technical issue in the latest IAEA report on Tehran’s nuclear energy program.

The latest IAEA report said that the traces of uranium enriched to purities of 27 percent were found at the Fordow site.

Ali Asghar Soltanieh on Saturday criticized Western media hype and said “as mentioned in the IAEA report, the issue is a normal technical subject that is being investigated by experts.”

He said that Western media pursue certain “political objectives” by addressing “minor technical issues” that are common in the nuclear facilities of other countries too.

“Highlighting and politicizing a technical issue indicates certain efforts to sully the atmosphere of constructive cooperation between Iran and the IAEA,” he added.

The envoy said that the IAEA report once again proved the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear activities and rejected allegations about the country’s nuclear activities.

The report also confirms that Iran's nuclear activities, in particular the uranium enrichment, are being carried out successfully, without any interruption and under the IAEA supervision, Soltanieh added.

Iran enriches uranium to 20 percent to provide fuel for Tehran’s Research Reactor, which produces medical isotopes for cancer patients.

Iran has repeatedly reiterated that it does not need or plan to enrich uranium at a level above 20 percent.

The agency’s latest report on Iran will be discussed during the next meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors, which will be held in Vienna on June 4. 

Israeli officials refuse to meet US envoy after Baghdad talks

The rift between Washington and Tel Aviv over Iran's nuclear issue has widened as the Israeli premier and defense minister refuse to meet with US Undersecretary of State.

On Friday, May 25, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak refused to meet with the top US negotiator on Iran in Baghdad Wendy Sherman who had travelled to Tel Aviv to brief Israeli officials about negotiations between Iran and the P5+1--Britain, China, France, Russia, and the United States plus Germany.

Iran and the P5+1 wrapped up their final meeting in Baghdad on Thursday evening after two earlier sessions of negotiations on Thursday and Wednesday.

Sherman delivered her report to National Security Adviser Yaakov Amidror and Foreign Ministry Director-General Rafi Barak instead, Debka file reported.

According to her report, no progress was achieved in Baghdad as Iran refused to suspend uranium enrichment at low (3.5-5 percent) or high (20 percent) levels or shut down the Fordow nuclear plant near Qom.

Tehran and the six major world powers have agreed to hold another round of talks in Moscow on June 18-19.

Iran has stressed there would be no progress until the P5+1 recognized Iran’s inalienable “right” as a signatory of the Non-Proliferation Treaty to enrich uranium. 

Afghan lawmakers approve Kabul-Washington strategic pact

Afghanistan’s parliament has approved a recently signed security pact between Kabul and Washington, which extends the US presence in the war-torn country to another decade beyond 2014.

The deal allows the US military to stay in Afghanistan for at least another decade after 2014, when most foreign forces are planning to pull out of the country.

Around 180 Afghan lawmakers voted for the pact on Saturday and only four legislators voted against it.

The US president Barack Obama signed the deal with his Afghan counterpart Hamid Karzai in Kabul on May 2 to provide aid, advisers and support for a period of 10 years after the expected departure of foreign combat troops in 2014.

The controversial parts of the pact had been earlier removed and dealt with separately, including giving Afghan forces the control of night raids and prisons.

Following the signing of the agreement, Afghan political party, National United Front, condemned the pact, describing the deal as illegal and “imperialistic.”

In a televised speech prior to his departure from Afghanistan, Obama warned that if foreign forces left Afghanistan immediately, they would lose everything they had gained and urged the forces to finish the job they had started before withdrawing from the country.

However, France's newly elected President Francois Hollande has vowed to pull out his country's troops from Afghanistan immediately.

The public opinion in the US and other NATO members has begun to turn against the US-led war in Afghanistan, as casualties have risen there over the past few months.

The US-led invasion of Afghanistan was launched in 2001. The offensives removed the Taliban from power, but insecurity continues to rise across the country, despite the presence there of about 130,000 foreign troops.