Taj, Sagar inaugurate Pokhribal-II, say Govt. consolidated water resources, made laws

Mehjoor Nagar scheme also commissioned

SRINAGAR, MAY 27: Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi ud Din alongwith Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar today inaugurated the augmentation of water supply from Rangil plant to Fort area at Pokhribal water treatment plant which has come at a cost of Rs. 42 crore.

            Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Mr. Taj said with today’s commissioning a long pending demand of the people of the area has been met. He said government during the last three years has done enough to conserve and protect the water resources of the state. He said J&K was the first state in the country to enact laws regulating usage and ownership of water resources. He said many other states followed this model.

            The Minister said with the collection of water usage charges, the state would be getting an annual revenue of Rs. 1000 crore which would be used to buy back power projects which would give the economy of the state a greater push. He said work on Wullar conservation would be completed within a year which would stabilise water level in Jhelum ensuring more power generation during winter months. He said J&K is heading towards self sufficiency saying this was all possible due to the efforts of the coalition government headed by chief minister Mr. Omar Abdullah.

            Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sagar complimented Mr. Taj for the historic Water Resources Act which has enabled the state to manage and control water resources within the state. He said the money received as usage charges would be used to buy back power projects like Salal, Uri etc.

            Mr. Sagar said the present government has taken many path breaking steps like empowerment of panchayats, steps leading to transparent governance and improvement of road, health, education and social infrastructure in the state. He said peace is imperative for development adding that due to peace the state is witnessing a good tourist season this year.

            In his address, MLA, Hazratbal, Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamal demanded immediate completion of many PHE and irrigation schemes under execution in his constituency. He hoped that many big achievements would be registered in the coming years by the present coalition government.

            The Rs. 42 crore augmentation of water supply from Rangil plant to Fort area including Badamwari, Makhdoom Sahib and other adjoining areas would benefit more than 70 thousand souls in the downtown city. The supply received through the new system would be 80 thousand gallons per hour as against 20 thousand gallons per hour.

            Later, Mr. Taj inaugurated Water Supply Scheme, Mehjoor Nagar at Padshahibagh built at a cost of Rs. 9.88 crore. The scheme is expected to benefit around 40 thousand souls of the Mehjoor Nagar, Railway Colony, Jawahar Nagar, Kursoo etc. areas.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister asked people to take benefit of various welfare schemes and development initiatives of the government.

In his address, Minister of State for Home, Tourism & PHE, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani said the present government has embarked upon a path of development in the state. He said the present government is keen to revolutionise the state in terms of road connectivity, infrastructure, power, health, education etc.

Chief Engineers of several wings, officers and engineers were present on these occasions. 

Kupwara to come up as Model for eco-tourism: Nasir

‘Synergy between infrastructure development, environmental care will be maintained’

‘Inaugurates tourism infrastructure at Chandigam, Khumryial, distributes cheques’

CHANDIGAM (LOLAB), MAY 27:- Describing Kupwara as Model for eco –tourism, Minister of state for Tourism, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani has said that Lolab will emerge as a dazzling spot to attract all tourism stakeholders in a big way in the next couple of years.

            The Minister said this while addressing a huge public gathering after inaugurating a mega tourist Guest House at Chandigam, Lolab here this afternoon.

            MLA Lolab, Mr. Abdul Haq Khan, Ex MLC, Haji Mohammad Sultan Mir, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Mr. Sarmad Hafeez, Director Tourism, Mr. Talat Parvez, Chief Executive Lolab- Bangus- Drangyari Development Authority (LBDDA) , Mr. Mohammad Yassen also spoke on the occasion .

The 10-bedded tourist Guest House having capacity for 50 people with other facilities of dining Hall, Aram Gah, Viewing Deck and Public Convenience was constructed at a cost of RS 1.50 crore.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the government created LBDDA with the prime objective of targeted tourism development in the frontier district. “In Phase-I, tourism infrastructure in consonance with environmental norms is being created. We have already sent proposals for formal  approval for construction of Mega projects to Union Tourism Ministry for funding, which would help us in creating tourist infrastructure facilities to woo foreign and domestic tourists”, he said.

Asking the tourism department to mobilize inter-district tourists travel, the Minister asked the Deputy Commissioner to organize education tours to upcoming tourist destinations in the district. He said that FAME tours for tour operators and other stakeholders will also be organized for tour operators in the state. “It will be a big achievement, if we are able to attract a few package tours to Lolab, Drangyari and Bangus areas”, the Minister added.

 Urging the youth to explore the potential for employment generation in tourism industry, Mr. Nasir asked the Director Tourism to sensitize interested people towards the new package of incentives announced by the state government.

The Minster also inaugurated Tourist Interpretation Centre, Guest lodge, Aram Gah and Cafeteria at Satbarn Camping site at Khumryial which has been constructed at a cost of Rs 1.50 crore.

 Earlier, the Minister gave away certificates among 600 educated youths who underwent training at Institute of Hotel Management, Srinagar in different tourism related trades like, Cook, Waiter, Tourist Facilitator under the programme ‘ Hunar Se Rozgar’. He also distributed 192 cheques worth Rs. 2.50 lakh among the trainees on the occasion.

The Minister congratulated the trainees for completing the courses successfully. He also urged them to be specializing in selective cuisine “We have to think of new cuisine beyond wazwan to make our food industry more attractive”, the Minister said.  He was informed that out of 600 trainees, 200 get placement in private sector.

Mr Nasir also released maiden Publicity Brochure of LBDDA showcasing the potential of three areas of the tourism development authority. He said the broacher can be remembered as unique as three new tourist destinations of the Kupwara district have been given three separate identities.

The Minister said that Wadi Lolab have been publicized with the famous couplet of Shaire Mushraq Dr. Sir Mohammad Iqbal, ‘ Pani Teray Chashmu ka Abolta Hua Semab, Murgani Sehar Terey Fizauwoon Mani Hai Betab, Aay Wadi Lolab,Aay wadi Lolab. Bangus Valley has given identy ‘Explore the untouched World’, while as the Drangyari valley can be named as ‘Nature at its best’.

Ruhullah inaugurates Syed Aga Mehdi Cricket Tournament

Says sports inculcate discipline

SRINAGAR, MAY 27–Minister for Science, Technology, Sheep and Animal Husbandry, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has called for providing congenial sports infrastructure to the youth of the State for Polish and exploits their sports talent, adding that sports are essential for imbibing discipline and mental and physical fitness amongst the people.

Speaking at the inaugural function of Shaheed Aga Syed Mehdi Memorial Cricket tournament at Sports Stadium Budgam today, Aga Ruhullah assured the organizing committee of the tournament of every possible support for polishing the sports talent of the youth.

The Inspector General of Police, S. M. Sahai, District Development Commissioner, Budgam, Mr. Khursheed Ahmad Shah, DIG,CK, Syed Afad-Ullah Mustafa, Secretary, Sports Council, Mr. Kiran Wattal, SSP  Budgam, Mr. Uttam Chand, a large number of sports lovers and students were present on the occasion.

About 64 Cricket teams of the Kashmir Valley are participating in Cricket tournament.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Khursheed Shah said that district administration would provide every possible support to sports department for boosting sports activities in the district.

Government for restoring pristine glory of old city: Sagar

SRINAGAR, MAY 27– Maintaining that the government is restored the pristine glory of the old city Srinagar, Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that a comprehensive plan has been formulated for the beautification of the same on heritage pattern.

The Minister was interacting with the people of different localities while inspecting the pace of work on the beautification/ renovation of the historic Zainakadal and its adjoining areas.

He was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. Baseer Khan, Additional Deputy Commissioner Mr. Ata-ullaha Qadri, Chief Engineer R&B Mr. Mushtaq Lone, MD JKPCC, Mr. A. Gupta, S.E Irrigation and other senior officers of different departments.

While inspecting the renovation work being carried out on the historic Zainakadal, the Minister asked the officers to ensure that the necessary work is carried out as early as possible so that the people of the area do not face any inconvenience. He directed the officers to ensure that the shopkeepers whose shops would be acquired in the beautification plan should be provided with adequate alternatives within the shortest possible time and that too in their catchment areas. “We have to see to it that the persons whose properties are acquired are provided with adequate compensation that too on the existing market rates as fixed by the high level committee constituted for the same purpose.”

At Bohrikadal, The Minister directed the officers that the necessary acquisition of the structures wherever necessary is carried out after giving the requisite compensation of the families.

“The government is abreast with the problems being faced by the people of the old city and necessary mechanism has already been put in place to ensure that they are redressed within the shortest possible time. We have also formulated a comprehensive plan for beautification/ renovation of this historical city and necessary measures are also being taken to bring it on the tourist map of the state”. The Minister assured the people.”

Gul takes stock of facilities for Kheer Bhawani Mela at Tulmulla

GANDERBAL, MAY 27:  On the directions of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, Advisor to Chief Minister, Mr. Mubarak Gul today visited Tullamulla to review the arrangements put in place by the District Administration Ganderbal and Dharmarth Trust for ensuing Kheer Bhawani Mela and check the measures put forth for the devotees.

The Advisor was accompanied by the District Development Commissioner, Ganderbal Mr. Showkat Ahmed Mir, Engineers of R&B, PHE, PDD, CAPD, and officers of Civil and Police 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 thousand years old Kashmiri ethos and culture.

Mr. Gul appreciated 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. He hoped that the safe return of whole migrant pandit community will take place in the near future.  

 The Deputy Commissioner briefed the advisor about 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 Advisor that additional water points have been installed and the PHE and PDD authorities have been directed to ensure round the clock water and power supply during the mela days. Adequate stock of ration, Sugar, K.oil and LPG is kept available by the CA&PD department, besides arrangements have been made by the health department by  deploying adequate medicos and para-medicos with necessary medicines for the convenience of the devotees.

The advisor was apprised that the devotees are being accommodated in the tents, adding that they would also be provided shelter in the building of nearby Higher Secondary School if required. He assured the Advisor, that no stone will be left unturned to provide best possible facility to the pilgrims during the Mela.

Gul visits safakadal to monitor rescue operation

SRINAGAR, MAY 23: Advisor to Chief Minister, Mr. Mubarak Gul today visited Safakadal to personally monitor the measures taken by the Police, Tourism and Fire Services departments to recovered the dead body of Shabir Ahmed Bhat S/o of Ghulam Mohammad Bhat R/O Safakadal, employee of Municipal Corporation Srinagar, who drowned in river Jehlum yesterday. 

Mr. Gul accompanied by the Assistant Commissioner, Revenue and the officers of Police, Tourism and Fire Services. He directed the concerned to put all efforts for fishing out the dead body of the deceased as early as possible.

Later, Mr. Gul visited the residence of the deceased and expressed his sympathies with the bereaved family.

CEO visits Baltal Base Camp, Domel; reviews track clearance works

‘Mobilize additional manpower to clear backlog work caused due to continuous bad weather’

SRINAGAR, MAY 27 – In view of the intermittently bad weather during last month and frequent rains and snowfall during last few days, the Governor and Chairman, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, Mr. N. N. Vohra, last evening directed the Chief Executive Officer of the Board to personally visit Baltal and Pahalgam and take stock of the situation and snow clearance work.

Accordingly, the CEO, Mr. Navin K. Choudhary, accompanied by the Additional CEO, Mr. P. P. Singh, GM Works, Mr. K. G. Bamba and other engineering staff and contractors today visited Baltal and took stock of the situation. The CEO and other senior officers also inspected the track beyond Domel upto one kilometer. It was observed that not only continuous bad weather has hampered the snow clearance work on the track but also has delayed repair of other infrastructure like restoration of power, water supply, repair of huts, etc. The CEO said that the work has been hampered as the labor has not been able to move and work continuously in rainy conditions at the high altitude area.  

Notwithstanding the weather related problems, the CEO directed all the engineering staff and contractors to mobilize additional manpower to the extent possible to complete the backlog work and put all infrastructures in time for the commencement of the Yatra on schedule.

The CEO also went around other facilities at Baltal Base Camp and expressed satisfaction over the restoration of the Helipad and other structures which had received massive damages due to snow avalanches during last winter. He also inspected ongoing repairs of the huts and toilet blocks in the Camp. It was also informed that supply of new pre-fabricated toilet blocks has commenced and 235 such toilets have already been received at the Baltal and Nunwan Base Camps. It is pertinent to mention here that Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board will replace and install 750 new additional toilets in the Camps along the Yatra route this year. The CEO also inspected the improvement of Ranga Morh-Baltal Base Camp road as well as alternate road from Neelgrath to the Baltal Base Camp.

As directed by the Governor, the CEO will visit Nunwan and Chandanwari Camps on 29^th May to take stock of the situation and progress made regarding Yatra related arrangements. It is also to mention here that the Governor along with the CEO is scheduled to undertake another aerial survey of both the Yatra routes on 2^nd June and, if possible will try to land at some of the Camp locations inside the Yatra route in addition to Nunwan and Baltal.

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

            SRINAGAR, MAY 27: The students who have applied for B. Tech, M.CA, 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.

Section 144 Cr. PC extended in Kupwara

            KUPWARA, MAY 27:  The District Magistrate, Kupwara has extended the imposition of Section 144 Cr. PC in district Kupwara for a period of two months with effect from May 21, 2012.

CVC search committee meeting on Monday

Srinagar May 27(KNS):   After much delay and recent postponements, the 4 member committee for selection of the Chief Vigilance Commissioner and two Vigilance Commissioners for the state is all set to meet here on Monday evening. Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly and Peoples Democratic Party President Mehbooba Mufti has also expressed her readiness to attend the meeting.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah heads the search committee while as PDP President Mehbooba Mufti, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand and law Minister Ali Mohammad Sagar are the other members of the committee.

The meeting which was scheduled to be held earlier was postponed due to non availability of the Chief Minister and the Opposition leader. However, Mehbooba Mufti has confirmed to KNS that she will be attending the meeting. “Yes I am attending the meeting”, Mehbooba told KNS over telephone.

Reliable Sources in the government told KNS that incumbent Director General Police Kuldeep Khoda, Ex-Chief Secretary S S Kapoor, Ex-Secretary Home Sameul Verghese, Ex-DGP CID Ashok Bhan and former Resident Commissioner S S Saini are among the probables for the coveted post of Chief Vigilance Commissioner. Interestingly Khoda is retiring from active services on May 30 and is said to be the top contender for the post.

The candidates for the selection of the two vigilance commissioners include Former Financial Commissioner RK Jerath, Mohd Syed Khan Ex Secreatary General Administration Department, and Former IG Traffic Mohammad Amin Shah apart from Commissioner Taxes Khwaja Bashir.

It is important to mention here that the search committees will shortlist three contenders for the post of CVC, which will be submitted to the state Governor N N Vohra for final selection.

Minister for Law and Parliamentary affais Ali Mohammad Sagar also confirmed that the meeting is being held on Monday at 7pm. “We are meeting tomorrow evening and hopefully we will reach a consensus on the panel, which will be sent to the governor for final selection”, Sagar said.

JCC announces 3 day Sectt Gherao Programme

‘May go for indefinite strike if pushed’

Srinagar, May 27 (KNS):  Hinting at the possibility of an indefinite strike, the agitating employees’ associations have called for a three day programme in the fourth round of their agitation to press for their demands.

According to the Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) a joint programme has been formulated under which the employees will attempt secretariat gherao on June 13, 14 and 15. Urging the employees to head to Srinagar on a Srinagar Chalo programme, the employees joint action committee intends to march towards the Raj Bhawan here. The employees leaders have appealed all the employees to observe a pen down strike on the 16^th of June, however hospitals have been kept out of the ambit of the strike.

Meanwhile, Employees Joint Action Committee (K) leader, Mohammad Khurshid Alam has said that the employees are ready for meaningful negotiations with the government. He has also asserted that they are not in favour of confrontation with the government.

However, EJAC (Q) leader Abdul Qayoom Wani has said that the government has no alternative but to implement the agreement already signed by the two parties.

After their release from different jails, the leaders held a joint meeting at the Food and Supplies Directorate here Sunday. Those who attended the meeting include Mohammad Khurshid Alam, Abdul Qayoom Wani, Ab Gafoor Dar, Farooq Trali, Muntazir Mohiuddin, Fayaz Andrabi, Fayaz Shabnum, Haji Bashir and other prominent leaders and employees.

The employees’ leaders, on the occasion, criticized the state government for their alleged apathy and use of force to quell their rightful agitation. “If the state government especially Chief Minister Omar Abdullah fail to take steps to implement the agreement already signed between the government and the employees leader, we will be compelled to intensify our agitation”, Said Mohammad Khurshid Alam.

During the meeting, the JCC leaders including Alam, Wani and Dar, pledged to continue their struggle for the just cause of employees.

The leaders also castigated the government for using force to quell their struggle stressing that such tactics of the government will not succeed in suppressing their struggle. However, they clarified that they are not in favour of a confrontation with the government but according to them the government is pushing them into confrontation.

EJAC (Q) leader Abdul Qayoom Wani on the occasion praised and congratulated the employees for making the third round of their agitation successful. He also stressed that the employees unions are united and no body can create a wedge between them. “As long as we are one, no body can harm us. Whatever decision will be taken it will be after proper consultations and arriving a consensus”, Qayoom said.

According to KNS, the employee’s leader while addressing a conference cautioned the government not to push them further and take steps to implement the already arrived agreement, which according to them can lead them to an indefinite strike.

Meanwhile, while talking to KNS, the employees’ leaders have said that the state government is holding a bias against the state employees as the retirement age for employees outside the state and in the central government is 60 years. “Retirement age in case of employees outside the state, employees in central government and the higher officers working in the state government itself is 60 years and we are at a loss to understand this bias against the state employees”, lamented a JCC leader.

Employees’ demands under active consideration: Sagar

‘Will discuss the issue in the cabinet’

Urging the state employees unions not to adopt the route of confrontation, Minister for Law and Parliamentary affairs Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that the demands of the state employees’ are under active consideration of the state government.

“The employees’ demands are under the active consideration of the government and they should avoid confrontation with the government”, Sagar told KNS over telephone adding that the state government has kept the window of engagement open through its General Administration Department. “Government knows their demands and the solution of their problems is our priority”, Sagar added. Sagar also appealed the employees to come forward for negotiations and that the government wants to engage with them in a friendly manner.

DGP to host luncheon

Srinagar, May 27 (KNS):  Director General of Police Kuldeep Khoda is hosting a luncheon party here Monday for senior police officials and media fraternity. The luncheon is scheduled to be hosted at the Police officers mess Humhama.

Pertinently Khoda is scheduled to proceed on superannuation on May 31 after completing his term of services. However Khoda may not be done with his innings in the state’s governance as he is touted to be the top contender for the post of Chief Vigilance Commissioner of the state.

Sonmarg an ideal location for tourists: Director Tourism

Srinagar, May 27(KNS):   Director Tourism Kashmir, Talat Parvez has expressed his happiness over the arrangements for tourists at Sonmarg tourist resort. The director held a meeting of officers to review the functioning of Sonmarg Development Authority here.

The Director also appreciated the efforts of the Chief Executive Officer Sonmarg Development Authority for keeping excellent arrangements for tourists.

Appreciating the efforts of the CEO Mohammad Yousuf, he said world class infrastructure has been developed by regulating the ponywallas, developing excellent infrastructure like camping, sanitation etc.

The Director also said that huge infrastructure has been developed at Sonmarg to accommodate huge number of tourists. The Director particularly appreciated the arrangements at the Camping site and urged other officers across the state to emulate such concepts. He also appealed people and tourists to visit Sonmarg instead of going to gardens and parks at other resorts. (KNS)

Peace on borders result of PDP’s policies: Mufti

PDP led regime set an example of good governance: Beig

Kathua May 27 (KNS): Reiterating resolve of his party to
aggressively pursue the pro-peace agenda, patron of Peoples Democratic
Party (PDP) Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that prevailing peace on
the borders, from Kathua to Kargil, was result of the reconciliation
process started by the PDP during its tenure.
Addressing a public meeting in border area of Hiranagar, Mufti said that   PDP had pioneered a peace and reconciliation process which was endorsed by the successive regimes at New Delhi and Islambad. "PDP has shown in the past that it can facilitate the resolution process with prudence, and it is ready to shoulder the responsibility of taking the process to its logical  conclusion," he asserted and reminded the people that it was all due to the efforts of
PDP that residents of border areas were living peaceful life. “In 2002 we had only 16 members but still we had pursued the peace process and established peace in this region. It was all due to the efforts of the PDP that peace was restored in the sub-continent”, he said. “It was all due to the credibility of the PDP that previous NDA regime headed by Atal Behari Vajpayee and present UPA government led by Dr Manmohan Singh whole heartedly supported initiatives taken by us for restoring peace in this region", Mr Sayeed said while recalling the historic rally of then Prime Minister, Atal Behari Vajpayee at Kashmir on April18, 2003 when he had extended hands of friendship towards Pakistan at the time when tension was running high on borders. Highlighting achievements of PDP led regime, he said PDP led coalition
regime had carved out a path of peace and equitable development in Jammu and Kashmir. He said that coalition regime had revived peoples' faith in the democratic institutions. “Removing regional imbalance and creating atmosphere for initiating peace process was the remarkable
achievement of PDP led coalition”, he observed.
Resorting peace and accelerating equitable development is the one and only agenda of PDP, he said and asserted that during the PDP led coalition regional imbalances were removed and equal treatment was given to all regions and sub-regions.

Speaking on the occasion former Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Beig said that before 2002 there were complaints of step motherly treatment and discrimination with Jammu and Ladakh regions. "Our government had initiated many steps to remove these discriminations.
In every sphere of life equal treatment is given to all regions of State", he said and pointed out that Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh were treated equally as far as opening of Universities, Colleges, schools and developmental projects are concerned. "It is our achievement that
we successfully removed these discriminations", he asserted. Calling upon the people to compare performance of PDP led regime with the decades long mis-governance of successive National Conference led regimes, he said that previous regime had provided good governance to the people.
“As far as the performance of present alliance is concerned, it appears only on papers and nothing concrete visible on ground”, he said, adding, “for the last more than three years functioning of this dispensation is appearing only on papers and at grassroots level not
even a single promise has been so far implemented”. Trilok Singh Bajwa, Thakur Balbir Singh, Ved Mahajan, Hussain Ali Wafa, Falail Singh, Capt Anil Gour, Suresh Sharma, Avtar Singh Khalsa, Surinder Singh, Pawan Dev Singh, Abjeet Jasrotia, Gopal Dass, Suraj Parkash, Sham Singh, Sehdev Singh, Darshanji, Puran Chand, Gurparshad Verma, Shoukat Gujjar, Kamal kishore, Parveen Katal and others also spoke on the occasion.                  

People’s empowerment in their own backyards has begun: NC

“NC appreciates governments move to hold cabinet meetings in remote areas”

 Srinagar, May 27(KNS):   Appreciating the step taken by the Omar Abdullah led government to hold Cabinet meeting in the remotest areas of the state the National Conference today called it as a ‘Historic move’ reflecting the commitment of the Chief Minister and the working president Omar Abdullah to empower people and ensure governance at the door step.

 In a statement issued, The Party Spokesman, Tanvir Sadiq while calling it momentous, lauded the effort of the government saying that this should be an eye opener for all those people who spread lies and deception against the working of the government.

 “This is one of the many steps Omar Sahib has taken and is actually practicing the doctrine of “for the people” “of the people” and “by the people”, said Tanvir adding that “people should take full advantage of it as people’s empowerment in their own backwards has begun”

 The spokesman while appreciating the move said that an area that could barely see a Halqa meeting will host a Cabinet meeting of the J&K Government. Tanvir said “This is the actual way of giving voice to the people and should be appreciated profusely”

 The spokesman said starting this week the state cabinet will meet in every remote area with Tangdar in North Kashmir as being the first. He said this assumes significance as it will be perhaps the first of its kind in those surroundings adding that Omar sahib has already said that he will meet with his cabinet once a month in a remote part of the state including Gurez, Machil and Keran which is highly appreciable.

Farooq, Omar, Nazir greet people on Urs Khwaja Garib Nawaz

Srinagar, May 27(KNS):   National Conference (NC) president Dr Farooq Abdullah, Chief Minister and Working President Omar Abdullah, General Secretary Sheikh Nazir Ahmad have greeted people on the world's most famous Urs Mubarak festival of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (Ajmeeri), popularly known as Hazrat Khwaja Garib Nawaz. 

In a statement issued by the party spokesman, The President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Working President Omar Abdullah said that the Urs Khwaja Ajmeri, teaches religious harmony and religious tolerance and educates us to build respect for all the religions.

Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that the shrine is a place of wish fulfillment for those who pray with devout and pure hearts. People of all religious faiths visit the Dargah and seek the blessings of the Khawaja. He said millions of devotees from all over the world visit the Dargah to pay homage to Khawaja on Urs Ajmer Shareef

The Chief Minister and working president Omar Abdullah said that the revered saint left for heavenly abode after a six-day prayer in seclusion and for this devotees celebrate 'Urs Ajmer Shariff' every year during the first six days of Rajjab, the 7th month of the Islamic calendar.

Sheikh Nazir Ahmad in his messages said that we must respect and remember the contribution of Chesti and other Islamic scholars for spreading the message of Islam.
Member Parliament Mohammad Shafi Uri, Sharief-u-Din Shariq, Mehboob Beg and Ghulam Nabi Ratanpori have also greeted people on the occasion.

CIC Operators Stage Sit in

Srinagar, May 27(KNS):   Community Information Centre operators from across the state assembled Sunday at Press enclave here and staged a sit in protest to press their demands for regularization of their services. The operators were also demanding that a Directorate be established for the Information Technology department.

“We have been working as CIC operators for last eight years, although the scheme has been taken over by the state government but it is not doing anything to safeguard our future”, said Zia Naqshbandi the president of the CIC operators association.

“We appeal the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the IT Minister Aga Ruhullah to take up the matter of our regularization at the earliest as we have been suffering for long”, said Mushtaq Ahmad Secretary of the association.

The agitating operators also held the non establishment of the IT directorate for their present condition and appealed the authorities to establish the directorate at the earliest.

03 die 37 injured in road mishap

Srinagar, May 27(KNS):  According to police sources, at least three persons died and thirty four other were injured in different road accident across the valley.

A Tata Sumo bearing registration number JK01H/6378 hit and critically injured six year old Reyaz Ahmad Wani son of Irfan Ahmad Wani resident of Seer-Sallie, near Kathsoo. The injured was shifted to District Hospital Anantnang where he succumbed to his injuries.

An unknown vehicle hit a truck driver, Jodh Singh resident of Kunjwani, Jammu, near Chandhara crossing on NHW, in the jurisdiction of Police station Pampore, resulting in his on spot death.

In another accident, four years old, Shabir ahmad Bhat son of Ghulam Mohammad Bhat resident of Pandithpora, Baramulla was hit by a Tata Sumo vehicle, near Reram, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Kunzar, resulting in his on spot death.

A passenger Bus bearing registration number JK03/7811 turned turtle near Chermajoo, Beerwah Budgam, resulting in injuries to 31 passengers who were shifted to Sub District Hospital, Beerwa for treatment. From among the injured, 11 persons have been referred to SKIMS Soura for further treatment.

Meanwhile, a Tipper bearing registration number JK03B/9946 hit a car bearing registration number JK02X/2900 on the National Highway near Jawahar Tunnel, resulting in injuries to 03 persons. All the injured have been shifted to Hospital for treatment.

A Motorcycle driven by Sheikh Irfan resident of Bangle Bagh, Baramulla rammed into the barrier of a bridge, near Sheeri Baramulla, resulting in injuries to Motorcyclist. The injured was shifted to Hospital for treatment.

A ar bearing registration number JK2Al/2957 hit a Maruti car bearing registration number JK02Q/9962, near Chudsoo Awantipora, falling in the jurisdiction of Police Station Awantipora, resulting in injuries to three family member traveling in the car.

Arms Ammunition recovered in Baramulla

Srinagar, May 27(KNS):   According to a police press release, 29RR and Baramulla police recovered huge cache of arms and ammunition form a hide out Sunday.

Acting on a specific information, Police and 29RR, carried out a search operation Khar Cheek area in the jurisdiction of Police station Kreeri. A hide out was busted in the search operation according to police.

During search operation, one AK 47, 294 AK 47 rounds, two UBGL, 19 UBGL grenade, one Pistol, 07 pistol magazines, 05 pistol rounds, one Chinese grenade, 02 Wireless Set and o5 Antenna were recovered from the hide out.

Gen Hasnain appreciates troops

Srinagar, May 27(KNS):   On a visit to interact with troops of Kilo Force deployed in the area of North Kashmir, Lt Gen SA Hasnain, General Officer Commanding, 15 Corps,   appreciated the laudatory contribution of Kilo Force in facilitating the prevalent peace in Kashmir Valley.  While acknowledging the stellar role played by Kilo Force in executing highly successful anti terrorist operations for neutralization of key millitant leadership and bases over the period of last one year, he stated that emphasis laid on avoidance of any collateral damage/ inconvenience to Awam during operations was equally commendable. 

The Corps Commander highlighted that the significant contribution of the formation towards sadhbhavana activities in the field of education, sports, medical assistance, assistance during natural calamities, chilli-e-kalan, engagement of youth through “Skill Development Initiatives” are some of excellent practices which are now being adopted by other formations across the Valley.  He added that besides these initiatives, continued adaptation of the concept of intellectual warrior focusing on aspects of good behavior, respect for local customs and use of Heart as a Weapon to reach out to Awam, will be the key to achieve further progress in this regard.

  GOC further stated that the troops must continuously strive to be ahead of adversary and along side make earnest efforts in assisting the Awam in all possible manner as part of their inherent national and social responsibility. He hoped that Kilo Force under the leadership of Maj Gen Sarath Chand, GOC, would play a major role in neutralisation of any attempts of millitants to infiltrate into hinter land and ensuring lasting peace and harmony by proactive engagement of Awam in North Kashmir during the crucial period that lies ahead.

US-led soldier killed in eastern Afghanistan

A US-led foreign soldier serving with the NATO military alliance has been killed in a bomb explosion in eastern Afghanistan.

Biden vows to confront rising power of China

The US Vice President Joe Biden says Washington has devised a new policy in a bid to counter the rising power and influence of China.

Joe Biden on Saturday addressing cadets of the US Military Academy during a graduation ceremony in West Point, New York, spoke about the United States’ shift in policy-making.

Biden said the United States will continue to take charge internationally and focus on Asia, particularly China which he called ‘the most critical relationship to get right.’

His remarks were in line with President Barack Obama’s newly announced military strategy that would focus US attention on Asia. Obama delivered the speech at the US Air Force Academy last Wednesday.

The US vice president focused said US combat troops have returned home from Iraq, the conflict in Afghanistan is winding down and American commandos killed al-Qaeda terrorist leader Osama bin Laden in May 2011.

Obama earlier this year unveiled a new military strategy that would "pivot" US attention to Asia.

Biden’s remarks come nearly ten days after the Pentagon said it believes China spent up to $180 billion on its military buildup last year, a far higher figure than acknowledged by Beijing, and it accused "Chinese actors" of being the world's biggest perpetrators of economic espionage.

"Chinese actors are the world's most active and persistent perpetrators of economic espionage," the report said.

"Chinese attempts to collect US technological and economic information will continue at a high level and will represent a growing and persistent threat to US economic security."

The report was the first by the Pentagon since President Barack Obama last year launched a policy "pivot" to reinforce US influence across the Asia-Pacific, even as planned belt-tightening shrinks the size of the US military in many other parts of the world. 

CBI arrests Jagan in DA case, uneasy calm in Andhra Pradesh

HYDERABAD: After three days of intense interrogation, YSR Congress presidentJaganmohan Reddy was arrested by the CBI on Sunday evening in connection with the disproportionate assets case. Apprehending violence from YSR Congress workers and Jagan fans, police enforced prohibitory orders all overAndhra Pradesh.

An uneasy calm prevailed in Andhra and Rayalaseema regions after Jagan's arrest. Shopkeepers pulled down the shutters and the state-run Road Transport Corporation curtailed bus services to the districts. Telangana was cool to the Kadapa MP's arrest.

Police effected preventive arrests of YSR Congress leaders in several towns and mandals to prevent any untoward incident. An RTC bus was attacked in Rajahmundry, while a curfew-like situation prevailed in Kadapa, the home town of Jagan. Cable TV connections were also cut off in places. As of now there is no news of violence.

Earlier, Jagan arrived at the Dilkusha Guest House, where he was interrogated for nearly eight hours. He was accompanied by his trusted aide, Congress MP Sabbam Hari, Congress MLAs AllaNani and Ranga Rao and senior leaders Bajireddy Goverdhan and Jupudi Prabhakar Rao. His close associate and financial adviser and accused number two in the case Vijay Sai Reddy also came along with Jagan's lawyer Ashok Reddy.

Jupudi Prabhakar Rao, MLC, told reporters that their party president was "unjustly" arrested by the CBI. Later, Jagan's mother and honorary president of YSR Congress Vijayamma, his wife Bharati, sister Sharmila and brother-in-law Anil Kumar rushed to Dilkusha Guest House to meet him. Sources said Jagan would be produced in the special court for CBI cases on Monday, where he is anyway expected to appear in response to a summons issued by the judge.

However, CBI continued to play a cat-and-mouse game, not coming out with all information with the result that a huge poose of newspersons and OB vans landed up before the house of the CBI special judge on Road No. 10, Banjaraq Hills.

Britons largest clients of 1.5 billion pounds surrogacy industry in India

LONDON: Britain is the single biggest source of clients for India's booming 1.5 billion poundssurrogacy industry known as the 'baby factory', a media report here said today.

The Sunday Telegraph reported that there were nearly 1,000 unregulated clinics in India, many specialising in helping Britons become parents.

Britons reportedly pay an average of 25,000 pounds for a child produced using surrogate mothers in India.

"It is estimated that 2,000 births to surrogate mothers took place in the country last year, with most experts agreeing that Britain is the biggest single source of people who want to become parents in this way," the report said.

"Britain may account for as many as 1,000 births last year in India. In contrast there were 100 surrogate births recorded in Britain last year", it said.

Women in India were being paid up to 6,000 pounds to donate eggs and carry babies, something British women are banned from doing, the report said and added that bankers, senior civil servants, executives at multinational companies and even National Health Service (NHS) doctors have become parents through surrogacy in India, according to British doctors.

There was also concern at the toll that becoming parents can have on Britons, as they face long waits in India to gain citizenship and passports for their babies, the report said, and added that currently British authorities can take up to a month before granting British citizenship to the children and weeks more to issue passports