THE DAILY  

VOICE OF SRINAGAR

SRINAGAR, FRIDAY, 01 SHABAN 1433 AH ;22 JUNE 2012

Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com

NEWS

Fixing of Plates mandatory for all: Akhoon

SRINAGAR, JUNE 21:  Minister for Transport Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon formally inaugurated High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) System at a function organized at Bemina today by fixing the said Plate on the official Ambassador Car of Transport Commissioner of the State.

Speaking on the occasion the Minister said that HSRP will be fixed on  about 13 lakh registered commercial and non commercial vehicles which will pave way for checking unauthorized  vehicle menace, fancy number plates and will prove fruitful for curbing the theft of vehicles to a large extent.

The Minister said that in pursuance of the orders of Supreme Court, fixation of HSRP is mandatory for every vehicle owner, and following the instructions, the State Government after tendering on national level, gave the contract to Real Mazon Company, who, in a short period installed their latest sophisticated machinery and put their experts in service at the premises of proposed site for the construction of the  offices of Transport Commissioner, J&K and Regional Transport Commissioner, Kashmir at Bemina. He said the rate fixed for every Light or Heavy Vehicle is Rs 401/- per plate.

The Minister said that like many other departments the working of the Motor Vehicles Department has also been streamlined and with some innovative measures the Department has generated 85% revenue during the last year.

Mr. Akhoon stressed upon the officers to monitor the process started by the Company from today and ensure that all the registered vehicles of the State should be got fixed HSRP  in a time bound manner so that the system will prove a grand success.

The Transport Commissioner of the State Mr. Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo, while briefing the press on the sidelines of the functions, said that there is in build security mechanism in the Plate itself which is mandatory to be fixed in each and every vehicle. He said that Plate once fixed on any vehicle cannot be removed which will help to identify the vehicle at any time. He said that on the basis of a Bar Code (BC) the engine number and chassis number of the vehicle can easily be ascertained adding that after introducing this system it will help in curtailing theft and misuse of vehicles besides bringing efficiency in traffic system.

            Among others Joint Transport Commissioner, Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir, ARTOs, Managing Director, Real Mazon Mr. Kataria, senior officers of Transport Department, media persons, and prominent citizens were present on the occasion.

Nasir reviews arrangements for 3^rd Mughal Motor Car Rally

SRINAGAR, JUNE 21:- Minister of state for Home, Mr. Nasir Aslam wani this morning chaired a high level meeting here today, convened for reviewing the final arrangements made by the various line departments for 3^rd Mughal Motor Car Rally being held in the state.

 The 3rd Mughal Motor Car Rally will be flagged off from Royal Spring Golf Course(RSGC) on 29 the June, will pass through Shopian, Pir Ki Galli, Bafflliaz, Rajouri, Jammu, Kishtwar, Simthan Pass, Kokernag, and would conclud on July 2, 2012 at RSGC.

The Meeting discussed threadbare arrangements made by various line departments. It was decided that there shall be new logo for Mughal Motor Car Rally from this year.

Reviewing the arrangements, the Minister asked the DIG traffic to ensure the traffic regulations enroute during the rally period so that people as well as participants of rally could not face any inconvenience.  It was also decided that helipad sites would also provided to the organizers before the commencement of the rally. It was further decided that rescue teams would be available at all the vulnerable points enroute the rally for early eviction in case of any incident besides fire brigade would also be made available for the smooth conduct of rally.

Regarding the security, the meeting was informed that fool proof arrangements have been made by all the security related agencies enroute the rally. The meeting asked the Director Heath Services Kashmir and Jammu to keep a dedicated team of doctors and Para medicos ready and ensure the availability of critical ambulance enroute the rally.

Speaking on the occasion, The Minister asked all the line departments to keep close coordination during the rally for making it success.

 The Meeting was attended by  Commissioner Secretary Tourism, Mr. Atul Dullo, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Samoon, Commissioner Secretary, R&B, Ms Tanveer Jahan, IG, Traffic, Mr. Muneer Ahmed Khan, Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Mr. M. K. Devidi, MD, JKTDC, Mr. Satish Nehru, Director Information, Mr. Zaffer Ahmed Bhat,   DIG, Traffic, Mr. Showkat Ahmed Wattali, Director Tourism, Mr. Talat Pervaz, President, Himalyan Motor Car Rally, Mr.Vijay Parmiar and other senior officers of Civil and Police.

Dy CM Inspects STP

Asks officers to ensure proper cleanliness of tourist places

            SRINAGAR JUNE 21:  Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand, along with a team of officers  today visited Boulvard, Nishat and Nasembagh areas.

              Vice Chairman, LAWDA, Irfan Yaseen, Vice Chairman, SDA, Farooq Renzushah, Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Dr. G.N.Qasba and other senior officers accompanied the Deputy Chief Minister.

            Mr. Tara Chand while inspecting LAAM Nishat sewerage treatment plant (STP) was informed that daily treatment capacity of the plant has reached to 4.5 million liters. He directed the concerned officers to carry out regular testes of treated water to ensure its 100% purity.  

            Terming tourism backbone of State’s economy, Deputy Chief Minister asked VC, LAWDA and Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation to further improve the basic facilities being provided to the tourists by their departments. He asked the officers to ensure proper cleanliness in and around all tourists places along side of Dal Lake for further improve their aesthetic ambiance.   

            Giving details of the Dal cleaning project, VC, LAWDA  informed that five machines, imported from US and Switzerland, along with old machines have been put into service to clean unwanted weeds in the Lake. He said augmentation of the machineries had become necessary in view of the growing magnitude of the weed.

Mr Tara Chand directed him to ensure lifting of extracted weed from the road immediately without allowing it to pile up for next day besides renovating the footpaths.  He instructed officers of the Authority to show substantial progress on all Dal Development works.   

Malik inaugurates interactive session at A S College

Asks students to avail benefits of scholarship scheme

SRINAGAR, JUNE 21- Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Abdul Gani Malik inaugurated an interactive session on the implementation of Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme for students of the state Government Amar Singh College, here today.

  The session was organized by People’s Forum in collaboration with Nodal Officer of Higher Education Ministry, Principal, Government Amar Singh College, Prof. Zahoor Ahmed Chatt.

Principals of all the Degree Colleges, educationists, academicians and large number of aspirant students attended the session.

Informing the gathering about the benefits of the scheme, the Minister said that those college or university students whose parental income does not exceed Rs. 4.50 lakh per annum can avail the benefits of the scheme, while undergoing education both general and in professional courses. He said every kind of fee, hostel expenses and other charges incurred by the students will be reimbursed under the scheme.

On this occasion, a Working Group was constituted to frame out the recommendations to be submitted to Human Resource Development Department, Government of India, suggesting some amendments in the scheme based on the situation on the ground. 

The members of the Working Group comprises Principal Government, Amar Singh College, Prof. Zahoor Ahmed Chatt, Principal SP College, Prof. Nazir Ahmed Gilkar, Prof. Tanveer Ara, Principal Government Women College M. A. Road, Prof. Irshad Ahmed Baramulla, Peerzada Mohammad Yousuf, Kulgam, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmed, Pulwama, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmed Wani (Retd), Prof. Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Ahmed, ZEO (Retd).

The Group will submit its report shortly to Government of India for necessary action.

Mr. Vikar from student community was also included in the working group.

The members of people’s, Forum who attended the session included Syed Nasarullah Shah, Malik Imtiyaz, Mohammad Amin Raja, M. Shafi Rangrez Syed Nasurullah is also General Secretary of senior citizens Civil Society and pensioners Welfare Association.

Compile compartmentwise details of forest damages: Altaf to officers

SRINAGAR, JUNE 21:  Minister for Forests and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmad today asked the forest officers to compile compartment-wise details about the fallen forest trees due to windstorm that wrecked the state early this year. He said after compiling the details, a strategy will be worked out to extract these fallen trees from the forests and put it to use as timber to the deserving consumers.

During his extensive tour to the forest areas of Budgam, particularly Doodhpathri and Raithen today, the Minister called for a massive plantation drive on the damaged forest areas due to windstorm adding that 2.30 lakh sapling have been planted in district Budgam during this year adding that more trees needs to be planted to expand the forest cover.

He said that one lakh Cft of timber will be provided to the consumers of Budgam district during the current fiscal. He also directed the forest officers to provide fallen timber to the consumers preferably who live in the close vicinity of forests. He cautioned against the misuse of timber adding that only genuine consumers should be provided timber for domestic use. He said an empowered team of forest officers will be deputed to various areas of the state to ascertained whether timber is being supplied to the genuine consumers adding that strict action would be taken against the officers for violating the rules defined in this regard.

Reviewing the implementation for CAMPA in district Budgam, the Minister was apprised that Rs 2.47 crore have been expended on various forests development schemes under CAMPA. It was informed that chain link, fencing was done over 22145 rft of forest land during the last year while Rs 1.80 crore would be spent on fencing, chain link and plantation on 105 hectares of degraded forest land this year. He directed the Forest Protection Force to enhance vigil in their respective jurisdiction to curb the forest smuggling effectively.

The Minister was accompanied by conservator of Forests Mr. Nisar Ahmad and Divisional Forest Officer, Budgam Mr. Himayun Qadri and other concerned forest officers.

Environment Day celebrated at BHSS, Palpora

            SRINAGAR, JUNE 21: The Environment Day was celebrated at Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Palpora, Srinagar on yesterday to make people aware about the importance of green and clean environment. The Principal of the College, Mrs. Fatima Tak was Chairperson and other reputed political workers were also present on the occasion. The programme started with a campus clean up drive followed by a welcome speech by Lecturer Zoology, Mr. Fayaz Ahmad.

            A debate was also held in which various students of the institution participated by highlighting various environment related issues and emphasized on frequently changing environment and the alarming situation of global warming.

            A quiz competition was held among the school students in four groups to introduce the students to environment concepts.

            A skit was also performed by the students on the occasion with a theme to protect and save the environment, followed by a plantation drive and a rally decorated with different placards containing environmental messages was held.

            At the end of the programme, the certificates were distributed among the winners and were also awarded with cash prizes.

            The event was concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Principal Mrs. Fatima Tak. The Principal conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to all the guests especially and also appreciated the students and coordinators of the programme.

Section 144 Imposed around examination centers

            BARAMULLA, JUNE 21: To ensure smooth conduct of Bi-annual Secondary Examination (10^th Class) being conducted by the Board of School Education (BOSE) from June 23, 2012 and to curb the menace of copying, District Magistrate, Baramulla has ordered imposition of Section 144 Criminal Procedure Code in and around the examination centre. This order shall remain in force till the examination is over.

            However, the order shall not apply to the security forces and police personnel deployed for the purpose.

Degree College Kupwara organizes debate on eradication of corruption

            KUPWARA, JUNE 21: The Government Degree College, Kupwara today organized an inter college debate on the topic “Eradication of Corruption is not impossible in a democratic system” wherein 20 speakers took part in the day long deliberations who threw light on the topic against the corruption menace declared it as social evil.

            The District Development Commissioner, Kupwara, Mr. Sarmad Hafeez was the chief guest on the occasion and inaugurated the proceedings in the college auditorium.

            The Principals of various Colleges and Higher Secondary Schools, Teachers, students, galaxy of teaching staff were present on the occasion.

            The Principal, Government Degree College, Kupwara, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Malik welcomed the chief guest and other guests in the College auditorium and briefed the chief guest about the issues of the College.

            Speaking on the occasion, the District Development Commissioner hailed the College administration’s role for organizing such inter college debate where open discussion was held on the topic. He said that everybody of the civil society should take an active role for eradication of the corruption menace from the society and administration. He assured that he will present himself as best administrator free from corruption evil and seek the cooperation from all walks of the society for eradication of the corruption menace. However, he impressed upon the educationists, officers and civil society members to adopt the devotion, dedication and maintain the accountability, transparency for fighting against the corruption menace. He promised the people of the district for clean and honest administration.

            The District Development Commissioner (chief guest) distributed the cash awards among the position holders who bagged first, 2^nd and 3^rd position in the debate arranged by the Government Degree College, Kupwara administration.

TLSC organizes seminar at Sumbal

                BANDIPORA, JUNE 21: A seminar on “Environment and Anti-Child Labour” was held under the Chairmanship of Chairman, Tehsil Legal Services Committee (TLSC), Sumbal, Mr. Imran Hussain Wani at Higher Secondary School, Sumbal today. Tehsildar Sonawari, Zonal Education Officer, Sumbal, Principal of the Institution besides various officers, senior Advocates and a sizeable number of students from various educational Institutions participated.

            While discussing both environment and child labour, the speakers on this occasion stressed for keeping the surroundings neat and clean to avoid diseases. They also said that joint efforts are needed to be taken up to stop child labour and provide them (children) their right of education.

Power shut down

                SRINAGAR, JUNE 21: According to Power Controller, Power Development Department, Kashmir Province, Bemina, Srinagar in order to carry out branch cutting and stabilization of the Kangan-Sarfraw on June 23, 2012, Kangan-Sarfraw (Gangeer Tap Line) on June 24, 2012, Habak-Ganderbal (Ganda Singh Tap Line) on June 25, 2012, Habak-Ganderbal (Manigam-Tap Line) on June 26, 2012, Habak-Ganderbal (Master Plan Tap Line) on June 27, 2012 and Kangan-Wussan Line on June 27, 2012 and Kangan-Kangan Line on June 28, 2012 from 9 a.m to 5 p.m. respectively, power shut down to these areas fed from the said lines shall remain affected on the said dates and time. 

Players of Taekwondo Bringing Laurels to Kargil every Year; Haji Amir Kamran

            KARGIL JUNE 21: In the Kashmir Division Inter District Taekwondo Tournament of Boys under 14, 17 and 19 Age group concluded at Srinagar, in which 14 boy students from Kargil Participated.

The players of Kargil won 9 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze medals and excelled the event outnumbering the other districts just like the girl players did last week.

             Terming the game of Taekwondo the USP of sports in Kargil, The Executive Councilor for Agriculture and Revenue LAHDC Kargil Haji Ghulam Amir congratulated the players, the concerned teachers/instructors and their parents for the achievements. He said that in Kargil focus on sports like, Athletics, Boxing, Taekwondo, Archery etc should be concentrated so that those games which have better prospects for the players to groom can be nourished more to make the players international standard.

 The District Youth Service and Sports Officer Kargil Haji Mirza Hussain and the Senior Vice President J&K Taekwondo Association Gulzar Hussain Munshi also congratulated the players and hoped for better performance at national level.

            Haji Mirza said that in Taekwondo game Players from Kargil has excelled in School National Games and brought laurels to the State.

 Rise in water level in Kargil due to Rise in Temperature

             KARGIL JUNE 21: Due to increase in the temperature the water level in all streams including the River Suru, Drass etc has been raised. In the Pargue village of Shakar  Chiktan the link road has been cut off due to rise in water level in Pargue Nallah due to which the students and villagers faced lots of problem as it has also damaged the Foot Bridge.

            The Executive Councilor for Agriculture and Revenue visited the village and inspected the affected places along with AEE and JE of R&B II and Irrigation Department.

            Haji Amir directed the R&B II  to immediately restore the foot bridge over the Nallah on temporarily so that the sufferings of the villagers can be reduced and also directed the Irrigation department to clear the actual waterway of the Pargue Nallah so that there will not rise such issue in the future.

            He cleared that there is no lose to life and property in the village.

Good news for Handicraft exporters of Kashmir valley

Importer Exporter Code to be issued from Srinagar

            SRINAGAR, JUNE 21:    While reviewing the functioning of Export Development Centre established at Kashmir Haat premises, Director Handicrafts Mr. Muzaffar Hussain was informed by the Assistant Director General Foreign Trade Office Sh. P. Sai Babu, (ITS) that the long pending demand of the handicraft exporters of Kashmir has been fulfilled by the Goverment of India by operational wing the office of Assistant Director General Foreign Trade. Now onwards Importer Exporter Code (IEC) for Handicraft Exporters will be issued from the Srinagar Office of Director General Foreign Trade (DGFT) Block –D, Kashmir Haat Exhibition Ground.

            Not only that, the Exporters of Kashmir Valley can avail the services of the office of  Director General Foreign Trade for services like DEPB, Focus Product Scheme Scrips (FPS), Focus Market Scraps (FMS), EPCG, Advance Authorizations etc. The territorial jurisdiction of the Office of Assistant Director General Foreign Trade covers all the districts of Kashmir region. By creating this facility, prospective exporters have now got the option to avail the facility for getting I.E. Code in Srinagar at their doorstep instead of visiting Jammu. For exporters of the Kashmir region the DGFT office at Srinagar will also act as a facilitator in all the activities connected with Imports & Exports under Niryat Bandhu Scheme.

            It was also informed that for the benefit of the exporters, Foreign Post Office and Customs Office will also start functioning shortly from the Export Development Centre.

            For further details and queries the exporters are requested to contact Shri P. Sai Babu, ITS, Assistant Director General Foreign Trade Block-D, Kashmir Haat Exhibition Ground Srinagar.

Sagar asks ADDCs to ensure empowerment of PRIs

RKS meetings of Gousia, Rainawari hospitals held

SRINAGAR, JUNE 21-Minister for Rural Development, Law, Justice, Panchayati Raj and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that Additional District Development Commissioners (ADDCs) should effectively monitor and ensure that the powers of empowerment of the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) should be implemented in letter and spirit.

The Minister was speaking at the review meeting convened to oversee the status of implementation of the recent orders of empowerment of PRIs in the State. Commissioner Secretary, Rural Development, Mr. Farooq Ahmed Peer, ADDCs of different districts and other senior officers were present.

Stressing upon officers to ensure that the orders of the empowerment of the PRIs with 14 vital departments should be implemented, the Minister said that appropriate action would be initiated against officer of official showing any deviation or non-compliance to the cabinet order related to the decentralization of the powers to the grass root level.

The Minister said that we have to dispel the misgivings being created by the certain vested interests against the proper empowerment of the PRIs as the government has already ensured it. Now it is up to the ADDCs who have been designated as nodal officers for ensuring that the cabinet order related to the empowering the PRIs is being adhered to by the concerned departments.

Mr. Sagar also asked the officers to submit a monthly report about the status of implementation of the empowerment of PRIs so that the bottlenecks if any can be removed. He further asked them to convene regular meetings with the line departments so that synergize effort is ensured for implementation of the orders of empowerment.

The Minister also convened the meetings of Rogi Kalyan Samiti (RKS) of Gousia and Rainawari hospitals which was attended by the Additional District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, SE R&B, Medical Superintendents of the hospitals, Chief Medical Officer, Srinagar and other members of the Samiti.

While asking the officers to ensure that the benefit of this scheme reaches the targeted populace, the Minister said we have to ensure that the funds earmarked are used judiciously. He said that the health sector forms one of the important sectors and the government has accorded top most priority to it.

The meeting was further told that 84314 patients have been treated, 763 surgeries done and Rs. 15.96 lakh have been generated as revenue in the Gousia hospitals.

Tarigami chairs Environment Committee meet

Discusses measures for sustainable environment

SRINAGAR, JUNE 21: The House Panel on Environment met here today under the chairmanship of Mr. M.Y. Tarigami (MLA) and  discussed in detail the issues related to the civic and other facilities being extended to the pilgrims during the ensuing Shri Amarnathji Yatra in the State.

The Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, Mr. Shawkat Ahmad Mir apprised the Committee about the arrangements put in place and further suggested some measures for the facilities of the yatris. He suggested that a comprehensive policy required to be framed in view of the huge flow of yatris and other people during the yatra period for maintaining the environment enroute.

The Committee also discussed the status of cement factories established in the state viz-a-viz their monitoring to fulfilling the  requisite norms under Environmental Protection Act and adherence of the direction of  the Hon’ble Supreme Court  from time to time.

The Committee sought strong measures for preserving the environment in the State, particularly in the tourist resorts. It further stressed that pollution due to factories and all other means should be checked and authorities should take necessary steps.  It was also suggested that use of polythene, plastic bottles and other non-degradable items should be discouraged for the sustainable environment.

Mr. Javaid Mustaffa Mir, Mr. Syed Bashir Ahmad Shah, Mr. Mohammad Yaseen Shah, Mr. Peer Afaq Ahmad, Dr. Shafi Ahmad Wani, Mr. Abdul Razaq Wagay, Mr.  Lal Chand, Prof. Gharu Ram, Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Ganai and Ch. Zulfikar Ali besides Commissioner Secretary Industries Mr. Shant Manu and other senior Officer of SIDCO, J&K Cement Ltd, Pollution Control Board and Environment Department were also present on the occasion.

Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2012-  CEO returns after survey of tracks and Yatra Camps

          SRINAGAR, June 21 - On the instructions of the Governor, Shri N. N. Vohra, who is also the Chairman of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, Chief Executive Officer of the Board, Mr. Navin K. Choudhary, has returned after undertaking a three day survey of all the Camps en-route of Shri Amarnathji Yatra, checked the arrangements being established at each Camp and the pace of snow clearance and repair of the tracks. The CEO started his work with an extensive review at Baltal Base Camp and returned to Srinagar yesterday after inspecting arrangements at Holy Cave, Panjtarni, Sheshnag, Zojibal, Pissu Top, Chandanwari and Nunwan Base Camp.

In his report to the Chairman, the CEO informed that water, power, toilet and bath facilities, sewage treatment plant has been provided at the Baltal Base Camp and shelter sheds in the Baltal-Domel sector. The Entry Gate for access to the Baltal – Holy Cave track is also getting ready. He also informed that Langars are in the process of getting installed at the Baltal Base Camp. While expressing satisfaction over the road surface from Rangamorh to the Baltal Base Camp and Domel, the CEO has directed the PHE authorities to sprinkle water on the road several times a day to check the dust and dirt. He also inspected the Helipad and had a detailed briefing with the Helicopter Service Providers namely M/s Summit Aviation Pvt. Ltd. and M/s Himalayan Heli Services Pvt. Ltd. for smooth operation of the helicopter services.

The track from Domel to the Holy Cave via the Sangam and Kali Mata routes is getting ready and the vulnerable stretches on the track, particularly on the Kali Mata route, are receiving the attention of Mr. R. K. Pandita, Addl. GM (Works) of the Shrine Board. For this purpose, the Kali Mata track has been stopped for all movements for next two days and the essential repairs are expected to be completed by 22^nd June.

The CEO has reported that HHoly Cave area is still covered with considerable snow and the SASB engineering wing and the Pahalgam Development Authority have put in extra labour to make a satisfactory track for the Yatris. PDA’s snow clearance work from Sangam to Holy Cave is expected to be completed by 22^nd June evening. The CEO stated that the issue of non supply of power at the Holy Cave has been taken up with the higher authorities in the Power Development Department who have assured that the power supply at the Holy Cave, Panjtarni and Sheshnag Camps will be restored by today evening. The CEO has also taken up the matter with Chief Engineer, PDD for adequate storage of diesel at the each Camp location for running the DG sets without interruption.

The SASB engineering wing is repairing the staircase and railing leading to the Holy Cave which have broken down at few places due to heavy snow fall last winter. This work and the erection of toilets shall be completed by 22^ndJune.

The CEO expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made at the Panjtarni Camp. He has directed PDA to immediately erect railings at dangerous spots and kms. 28 and 29 and complete this by 22^nd June. The CEO has also directed the Camp Director, Panjtarni, to urgently undertake the necessary repairs of the helipads at Panjtarni.

Regarding the snow clearance between Sheshnag and Mahagunus Top, the CEO reported that most of the area in Mahagunus Top is still covered with considerable snow and the track from Bahubal Top to Sheshnag is slippery due to the snow melt. At his direction, the PDA have deployed heavy additional labour to clear the snow and improve the track in this strip before the Yatra commences on 25^th June. The CEO has directed the Camp Directors and Addl. Camp Directors at Sheshnag to review this stretch twice daily to review the progress. The CEO, PDA Mr. Mir Altaf, is personally supervising these works and has assured that the track will be made fit for Yatra before 25^th June.

Considering the loss of time at the Sheshnag Camp, due to heavy snow accumulation, the CEO has directed Shrine Board DGM (Works), Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Beigh, to personally camp at Sheshnag and get all the works completed. The Board has also deputed Col. Mohinder from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board to supervise the ongoing work in Sheshnag, to support the work of Director and Addl. Camp Director, Sheshnag Camp, who are engaged with other tasks.

The tracks leading to Nagakoti and Pissu Top, both with steep gradients are well prepared and the railing work shall be completed early.  PDA engineers and contractors are working on the ground and the work is likely to be completed in the next two days.

The CEO inspected the ongoing work on the Entry Gate at Chandanwari, which will be completed positively two days before the commencement of Yatra. The Pahalgam-Chandanwari and Khanabal–Pahalgam stretches of road are being repaired. The CEO has taken up the repair of the Kangan-Gund road, on the National Highway, with BEACON authorities for urgent repairs.

During his visit to all the Camps, the CEO directed the Camp Directors and Addl. Camp Directors to personally supervise work relating to sanitation, shelter, erection of tents and shops, proper arrangement of water and power supply and regulation of Yatri movements on the track. He also directed them to send a detailed Daily Report on the status of facilities and keep in constant touch with the CEO as well as all the functionaries of different departments.

The Governor, Mr. N. N. Vohra is scheduled to visit Nunwan and Baltal Base Camps on 22^nd June to personally see the arrangements made on the ground. He will visit Holy Cave, Panjtarni, Sheshnag and Chandanwari Camps on the next day.

Unemployment an impediment for increase in retirement age

Babus put onus on politicians, say ‘ministers reluctant’

“Alam can’t represent employees after retirement”

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS): A day after State government refused to hold fresh talks with JCC leadership, reliable sources in the Omar Abdullah government have revealed that it was unlikely that employees would get any kind of enhancement in the retirement age in the backdrop of growing unemployment in the state.

“Government has almost closed the chapter with regard to the retirement age demand”, a reliable source pleading anonymity told VOS on Thursday, adding that a wrong impression was being given that bureaucrats were the biggest impediment in meeting the demands of the employees. “Everybody in the state is living with an impression that bureaucrats especially the non locals were creating hurdles. But the fact is that it is the political establishment which does not want it to happen”, sources told VOS, adding even bureaucracy was in   favor of an increase in the retirement age.

“The problem is that our political class does not want any resentment from the unemployed youth, they don’t want to loose the vote bank”, said a senior officer in the government. He further added that government had an apprehension that if the retirement age was increased, it might evoke a strong reaction from the unemployed youth. “We are being targeted for nothing; it is the ministers who don’t want it”, claimed the officer.

While revealing that one of the senior bureaucrats had suggested government to keep the communication channels open with the JCC leadership, the officer said a proposal was being worked out to hold routine meetings with JCC leadership every three or four months. However he refused to buy the idea that the government was even thinking of increasing one year to the retirement age. “These are all rumors that government is considering an increase in the retirement age. Be sure that not even a month will be increased under present circumstances”, he added.

When asked as to what the government was doing to adjust the unemployed youth on available posts, the senior officer said, “ PSC is holding interviews even this time, we have some problem with SSRB but that also is being sorted out”.

Raising eye brows over the voluntary retirement of Senior JCC leader Mohammad Khursheed Alam the officer said that his applying for retirement may worsen his problems as according to him the government may not be able to negotiate with a retired employee. “Applying for retirement two months before superannuation is technically invalid, however when Alam has done so, let the government take its decision”, he said. The officer however said that the government may not be in a position to hold talks with a retired person when it comes to the demands of the employees who are in active service. (VOS)

JK wants special quota for ‘Hajeej’ duped aspirants

Shoots letter to S M Krishna

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS): The Jammu and Kashmir government has approached the centre for a special quota for the hajj aspirants who were duped by the infamous Hajeej Hajj and Umrah Services last year.

Sources in the government revealed to VOS that hectic efforts were going on to accommodate the more than 350 aspirants who had been cheated by the Hajeej. “We want to make sure that these aspirants are provided a chance to perform Hajj this year”, a senior officer in the Hajj and Auqaf department told VOS on Thursday. He said these aspirants could be accommodated only if GOI sanctions a special quota. The quota, if sanctioned, would be in addition to the current quota of 6,500 seats.

Sources maintained that this will not be included in the additional quota of 1,500 seats that the sate government is expecting to get in coming days.

Meanwhile, an official communiqué under No.H&A/552/12 dt. 19-06-2012 has been sent to Minster for Foreign affairs S. M Krishan by the MoS Hajj and Auqaf Aijaz Ahmad Khan on Wednesday requesting him to sanction an additional quota for the duped aspirants.

“More than 300 aspirants were cheated by a bogus company namely Hajeej, though a case has been filed in this connection and investigations are on, but the state government was not able to facilitate the aspirants for performing Hajj last year. We now request to please sanction an additional special quota for these aspirants”, reads the letter dispatched to on Wednesday.

MoS Hajj and Auqaf Aijaz Ahmad Khan told VOS that External affairs ministry has not responded to the letter yet, however he refused to comment whether there was any hope of such a quota getting sanctioned by the GoI. “I don’t believe in hopes. Let the response come first”, Khan said in reply to a question.

Pertinently more than 500 aspirants missed the chance of performing hajj, after the travel company they were traveling through turned out to be a bogus one. The owner of the company was later arrested and an investigation is going on. More the 10 crore rupees have been swindled by the company which are being recovered by authorities, sources said. (VOS)

Omar calls for integrating public role into civil service functioning

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS): Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Thursday underlined the necessity of integrating growing role of civil society in the functioning of administration to create better synergy on service delivery.

 “There has been significant impact of Government programmes and policies on poverty alleviation, health care, employment and inclusive development. However, there is need for innovative ideas, alternate ways of delivery of public service and re-energizing process of administrative functioning within the Government”, he said and stressed on integrating civil society role in this process.

Omar Abdullah said that Information Technology could also provide new solutions to problems adding that information, communication and education strategies are becoming crucial in social sector programmes.

Addressing Civil Service Officers at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration at Mussorie, the Chief Minister said that the civil service has been the hallmark of democratic frame work of the Country since the time of independence when Government launched the process of planned economic and social development. “The translation from policy to action has been done by the civil servants”, he added.

Calling for generating legitimate sense of redressal for public grievances in the administration, the Chief Minister said that dynamic civil servants are imperative to make the institutional devices dynamic to deal with the redressal of citizen grievances positively and effectively.

“It is therefore required that the civil service as an entity is to be programmed to engage consciously for achieving outcomes rather than focusing only on the outputs. The outlook, knowledge, skills and attitude of our civil servants must also relate to inter-generational dimensions of the socio-economic milieu. The responsive standards of Government as a whole need to be receptive to intra-regional variations and their management”, he asserted.

Stating that the concern for distributive justice is assuming critical significance as a major administrative agenda, Omar Abdullah said that the civil servants must emerge as chain managers and change agents. “There is an immediate call for innovations and factoring of policies and implementation in user perspective. Hence, the name of the game has to be partnership and stakeholder-ship”, he said.

On Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister said that the unemployment among the youth is a major challenge before the Government. “We are trying to address the aspirations of youth and channelize their energy in right direction. During the last two decades when the Country was busy in reshaping its growth paradigm, the economy of Jammu and Kashmir has been dented by the scars of militancy and unrest. In such an environment, priority to address skill development gaps remained absent. In addition an education system not in tandem with requirements of the 21st century growth made the problem more complex”, he said and made reference to the initiatives State Government has taken to impart training to youth in various skills to enhance their employability.

The Chief Minister said that the annual capital expenditure in the State is around Rs. 1000 crore and the outlay for 12th Five Year Plan has been prepared worth over Rs. 67800 crores.

 “We are also working on PPP modes to attack private investment which can piggy back on such huge public expenditure. The State Government is aiming at an annual average economic growth of 7.5 percent over the plan period. The huge capital expenditure during 2012-17 will create massive employment opportunity in the real sector of economy. This will require relevant skill in tune with demands. As such, cautious approach to create close linkage between demand and supply is being persuaded, and skill development and employability enhancement is receiving focus alongwith creation of jobs”, he maintained.

 “We have a target of training 9 lakh youth during 12th Financial Year Plan in real economy sector. Youth oriented schemes of SKEWPY, Udaan and Himayat have been started targeting more than 3 lakh youth. The State Government is also proposing setting up of 50 ITIs and 142 Skills Development Centres in the State to achieve the skill development target”, he said adding that the trainings will be demand driven so as to connect these with both wage and self-employment.

Elaborating his vision on connectivity, Omar Abdullah said that his vision of connected J&K constitutes 3 important components of physical connectivity, economic connectivity and emotional connectivity. “The physical connectivity has been flagged as one of the most important concerns in the State’s development policy and focused attention is on construction, upgradation and macadamization of village, district, inter-district, inter-provincial and national highways”, he said adding that apart from highways air linkage between various regions is being given special attention.

Omar Abdullah said that all habitations with the population of 250 people have been targeted to be connected with roads by the end of 12th Five Year Plan. He said Mughal Road, Simthen road and Kapran road to connect various districts of Jammu with the Valley are also expected to be completed and commissioned during next some years.

On economic connectivity, the Chief Minister said that physical connectivity will pave way for creating investment friendly environment in the State. He said a New Industry Policy must be in place to rope in investors and make J&K a business hub. He said tourism is yet another sector to generate wide-ranging economic activities. He said craft sector is zenith of Kashmir culture. “Our effort is to contemporise our traditional products through infusion of technology and design in the handicrafts sector”, he said and also referred to the efforts Government is making to give further strength to the fruit industry in the State. He also spoke about the utilization of State’s potential for green IT industry.

The Chief Minister said that his Government is working to bridge the communication gap between the youth of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of Country. “We are trying to fill up this gap through series of efforts. We are engaging our youth in the matters of Nation and State building. Around 7000 youth were engaged through Nehru Yuva Kendra to repair the dented bonds. We are facilitating conduct of common festivals. We are monitoring hassle-free business and education of J&K youth outside the State”, he said adding that much onus lies on the vast population of the Country to emotionally connect with the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Chief Minister also dwelt in detail about the initiatives of his Government put in place to upgrade and strengthen social sectors like health and education. He also spoke about the measures taken to seek self reliance in power generation.

The Chief Minister said that equitable development and good governance have been focused during his tenure. “We are taking concrete steps to give good governance and empower people to ensure transparency in the conduct of business by the administration at various levels”, he said adding that Panchayat Elections were held after 28 years, Right to Information Act was implemented, Public Service Guarantee Act was enacted and implemented.

On law and order, the Chief Minister said that there has been a discernible improvement in the overall security situation in the State. He said there has been remarkable reduction in militancy related incidents which has resulted in the reduction of security forces and removal of 40 bunkers from Srinagar city. “We are committed to zero tolerance. Time has come to rebuild the bridges by wiping out the scars of violence and create an atmosphere of peace and amity with equal opportunity of progress to all”, he said and wished best to the officers receiving training in the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration.

Kupwara Bar Association protests police excesses

Kupwara, June 21 (VOS): As a token protest against the alleged police excesses in different areas of Kupwara district, lawyers of the District Bar Association Kupwara boycotted courts on Thursday.

Alleging the police of committing atrocities on the common people of Kupwara, the Bar Association threatened to come on roads along with people in case authorities failed to stop the excesses. “If the authorities fail to stop the police atrocities within this month, we will have no other alternative but to come out on roads along with people”, the spokesperson of the Kupwara Bar Association Advocate Bashir Ahmad Dar told VOS.

Members of the Bar Association assembled at Dak Bungalow Kupwara to protest against the alleged police excesses. “We brought these complaints into the notice of judges but they feel helpless and have not been able to come to the rescue of commoners”, said the spokesperson.

While speaking to VOS Dy SP headquarters Kupwara Sajjad Khaliq said the allegations were not based on facts. “These allegations are wrong. We are against criminals. We deal according to law”, he said. “The Bar Association should come forward with specific cases. People are happy, however if there are any specific cases, we will take action according to law”, the Dy SP said. (VOS)

Restore 1952 position to fulfill all broken promises: Sheikh Nazir

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS): National Conference while reiterating its demand for restoration of pre-1953 status to the state has said the state had acceded to India on three components viz defense, foreign affairs and communication and India needs to fulfil its broken promises with the state.

Considering autonomy as a legal document, the National Conference (NC) General Secretary Sheikh Nazir Ahmad said that party will continue to fight for restoration of sovereign character of the state.

According to party spokesman, Sheikh Nazir Ahmad while interacting with various delegations at his residence said, “in order to win the hearts of the people the promises should be kept as per the instrument of accession”.

Sheikh Nazir said that it is the opposition parties who have all along eroded the constitution but assured that party will continue its political fight for the restoration of sovereign character of the state. He said that party will continue to follow the guidelines of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. He said that Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah spent decades in prison but never compromised on his principles only for the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.  He said that present leadership of NC will continue to fight for political rights, for which party leaders have offered their supreme sacrifices.        

The party general secretary said that the ongoing talks between India and Pakistan over resolution of Kashmir issue is because of the sacrifices being offered by Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and other leaders for its resolution. He said time is not far away when political solution in form of autonomy or pre 1952 position will be restored in the state.

 He said that party has always worked as a bridge between the two countries and National Conference would continue to play its role in bringing the two countries closer for resolving all outstanding issues including the Kashmir issue.

Stressing upon the party leaders to work for the strengthening of the party at the grass root level, he said once the party is strong at grass root level, then its leadership would be able to work on pro people agenda and far overall development.

IWT responsible for pathetic condition of state’s economy: KEA

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS):Calling for unity among people of the state against the alleged loot of the state’s natural resources, the Kashmir Economic Alliance has held the State and Central governments responsible for receding J&K to ‘a consumer state’.

“The state and central government have converted J&K into a consumer state through their defective policies”, said Mohammad Yaseen Khan Chairman of the KEA. 

The alliance held the Indus Water Treaty between India and Pakistan responsible for the pitiable condition of the state’s economy. “The treaty was signed by the two countries to throw people of the state into darkness. The loot of natural resources is being carried out by NHPC for the last 30 years for which both the central and the state governments are responsible,” Khan alleged.

Khan was addressing a gathering at Ganderbal on the occasion of a “business seminar” organised by the Kashmir Economic Alliance. 

Khan said that despite immense potential to become one of the leading exporters of goods, negligence of successive governments at the central and state level, has relegated J&K to a consumer’s state status.

Urging traders and businessmen to unite to press for their demands, Khan said that the reason, KEA is traveling to all the districts is to arouse the spirit of unity among all the stakeholders in Kashmir.

“Enough is enough. We have suffered a lot. Now, it is time to call a spade a spade. Unity among all of us is the only way to defeat the nefarious designs of government. Otherwise, if we continue to seek justice in segregation, nothing, except helplessness will come our way,” he said.

Blaming Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah for failing to deliver in his own constituency, Khan said that it is a matter of shame that once launched with much fanfare the proposed central university at Ganderbal has not taken off.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice-chairman, KEA, Iqbal Tramboo said Kashmir imports 90 percent of its essential goods from Indian markets. (VOS)

Marathon Session of Hurriyat General Council held

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS): In a 7 hour long session of its General Council, the Hurriyat Conference held deliberations with regard to strengthening of the conglomerate on grass root level.

“Discussions were held on different issues, members gave different suggestions and the same will discussed further in a meeting to be held next week”, said Mirwaiz Umer Farooq Chairman of the conglomerate while talking to VOS.

Meanwhile except Prof Ab Gani Bhat and Bilal Gani Lone, all the executive members including Shabir Ahmad Shah and Nayeem Ahmad Khan attended the meeting. Bhat and Lone reportedly could not attend the session on account of some domestic engagements.

The Hurriyat Conference is also believed to have stressed upon its members to restrict their grievances or concerns to within the Hurriyat Conference.

The sessions which started at 11 am in the morning continued till 6:30 in the evening.

Grand Shaan-e-Mustafa Conference held in Srinagar

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS): A large number of people gathered on the occasion of the International Shaan-e-Mustafa Conference held here Thursday.
Islamic scholars from across the world stressed upon the Muslim community to strictly follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in order to overcome the elements trying to harm Islam.         
Islamic scholars and preachers from India and overseas took part  in the conference organized by Haqani Memorial Trust Soibugh Budgam at Sheri-Kashmir Municipal Park here which was attended by people from all corners of the valley.

Foreign and local religious scholars including Syed Alvi-Ibn-Syed-Al-Sheikh Bafiqi of Madina, Syed Mamdou Ahmad-al-Wasabi of Makka, Syed Ali Abdullah Al Raies of Dubai, Syed Khalid Mehmood Badie of Lebanon, Syed Hamdi-Al-Yamni of Lebanon, Syed Mohammad Naji of Yemen, Showkat Ahmad Bukhari of Kerala India, Dr Abdul Wahid Europe and Moulana Ubaid-ul-llah Khan Azmie  attended the conference apart from several others including Liberation Front Chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik and senior lawyer Zaffar Ahmad Shah.

“I am pleased to see that people of Kashmir are god fearing. Love for Islam and for the creator of the universe Allah the Almighty was the message of our beloved prophet (PBUH) and we have to follow his commandments in letter and spirit” said Sadat-u- Syed Ali Abdullah Al Raies of Dubai. He urged upon Muslims across the globe to unite under on single platform. (VOS)

Automatic Weather Stations installed on Yatra route

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS): Taking into consideration the huge number of deaths of Amarnath yatris over the years due to inclement weather, the India Meterological department has installed Automatic Weather Stations for real time weather forecast along the yatra route.

On the instructions of the Governor N N Vohra who is also the Chairman of the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, IMD installed 3 AWSs at Sheshnag, Panjtarni and the Holy cave.

“A dedicated team of scientists and technician from the office of DGM Surface Instrumentation, Pune completed the assigned task successfully and timely

at Holy Cave, Sheshnag and Panjtarni and now the real time weather information from these locations is available onwww.imdaws.com”, said an official press release.

Additionally two weather display boards, providing information to yatirs have been established at Phalgam and Baltal.

“Besides its use in operational weather forecasting, the data generated from these AWS will be very useful for preparation of long term climatology of the area which at present is missing”, said the IMD spokesperson.

“Apart from this, DG, IMD has constituted a high level coordination group of scientists to render the best possible weather services to the Yatris and Managers of the Yatra. A dedicated web page ( www.amssdelhi.gov.in) exclusively for the Holy Pilgrimage is also being created. The information available is: 7 days weather forecast, three hourly weather forecasts, current and past weather”, read an official statement.

Sagar asks ADDCs to ensure empowerment of PRIs

Srinagar, June 21 (VOS): Minister for Rural Development, Law, Justice, Panchayati Raj and Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Mohammad Sagar has said Additional District Development Commissioners (ADDCs) should effectively monitor and ensure empowerment of the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) apart from implementation of government orders in letter and spirit.

The Minister was speaking at the review meeting convened to oversee the status of implementation of the recent orders of empowerment of PRIs in the State. Commissioner Secretary, Rural Development, Farooq Ahmed Peer, ADDCs of different districts and other senior officers were present.

Stressing upon officers to ensure that the orders of the empowerment of the PRIs with 14 vital departments should be implemented, the Minister said that appropriate action would be initiated against officer of official showing any deviation or non-compliance to the cabinet order related to the decentralization of the powers to the grass root level.

The Minister said that we have to dispel the misgivings being created by the certain vested interests against the proper empowerment of the PRIs as the government has already ensured it. Now it is up to the ADDCs who have been designated as nodal officers for ensuring that the cabinet order related to the empowering the PRIs is being adhered to by the concerned departments.

Sagar also asked the officers to submit a monthly report about the status of implementation of the empowerment of PRIs so that the bottlenecks if any can be removed. He further asked them to convene regular meetings with the line departments so that synergize effort is ensured for implementation of the orders of empowerment.

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