THEDAILY

VOICE OF SRINAGAR

SRINAGAR, SATURDAY, 06 SHAWAAL 1433 AH ; 25 AUGUST 2012

Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com

NEWS

Govt. promulgates ordinance to amend Water Resources Act, create fund to finance new projects

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24: In order to earmark funds for the establishment of power and irrigation projects and buy back the already established power projects in the state, the government has promulgated ordinance for creating a separate fund for the purpose by amending the J&K Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010.

The ordinance, issued by the Law Department, has made amendments to the section 185 of the J&K Water Resources Act-2010 for constitution of a fund for utilization of water usage charges under a proper account head.

The fund so raised, as per the amended clause, shall be operated upon by the Finance Secretary exclusively for establishing hydel projects, power projects etc and buying back power projects already established in the State.

The amended section 185-A after the promulgation of the ordinance reads as:

i)                  The Finance Department will constitute a ‘fund’ under a proper account number in the Jammu and Kashmir Bank or allot an ‘Account Head’ in which amount realized as water usage charges under the Act from such users who are generating power from Hydroelectric projects in the state shall be deposited.

ii)                The fund so created shall be operated upon by the Administrative Secretary, Finance Department exclusively for purpose of being utilized for establishment of hydel projects, Hydroelectric Projects, Multipurpose Hydroelectric Projects and buying back Hydroelectric Power Projects already established in the State.

It may be recalled that the State is getting water usage charges to the tune of Rs. 1000 crore from different user agencies since the passing of the J&K Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act in 2010.

Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi ud Din has persistently maintained that the money collected as water usage charges would be used for consolidating water and power resources in J&K including buying back power projects already in operation like Uri and Salal or taking up some ambitious projects like construction of Ravi canal in Kathua to irrigate some 1.33 lac kanals in five districts.

With the promulgation of the ordinance, the process for utilization of water usage charges for these purposes would just begin. 

Sham directs authorities to submit details of fruit loss in Shopian

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24 – Minister for Horticulture Mr. Sham Lal Sharma has directed the concerned authorities to immediately undertake a detailed survey to assess losses occurred to the fruit crops in  Shopian area due to wind/hailstorm a couple of days back.

            Chairing a meeting of officers, which was convened here to take stock of the situation that has arisen due to natural calamity in Shopian, the Minister issued specific instructions to the officers to complete the survey within next 3-4 days so that compensation to the sufferers was worked out accordingly. He directed the Director Horticulture Kashmir to personally monitor the process and submit the details of loss in the next week. He asked him to coordinate with the district administration/revenue authorities in ascertaining the exact details.

            Meanwhile, the Minister asked the Commissioner/Secretary Horticulture Department to initiate the process of fruit crop insurance so that farmers could be saved from the frequent losses caused due to natural calamities. He also directed him to work out a well-knit strategy well in advance on last year’s pattern for dispatching the fruits to various States from Valley. He directed for identifying new potential markets in the country to popularize the State fruits. He said last year the department made considerable efforts to promote State products in new cities including Himachal Pradesh and yielded good results. The efforts should be made to expand the ambit of activities this year also to generate more revenue, the Minister asserted.

            During the meeting, the Minister was informed that as per the rough estimates the fruit crops over 1100 hectares of area have suffered extensive loss due to wind/hailstorm in Shopian district. However, the exact quantum of loss will be ascertained after the survey details.

            Commissioner/Secretary Agriculture Production (Horticulture) Mr. Shaleen Kabra, Director Horticulture, Kashmir Mr. Saleem, Chief Horticulture Officer, Shopian and other officers of the department of horticulture were present in the meeting.

First Postal Football Tournament from Aug 25

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24:- Department of Posts, Jammu and Kashmir Circle, Srinagar is for the first time hosting five day All India Postal Football Tournament “Srinagar 2012” at Bakshi Stadium Srinagar from 25^th August to 29^th August 2012.

Giving details, details, the Chief Post Master General, J&K Circle, Srinagar, Mr. John Samuel said in a press conference here today that the tournament will be inaugurated by his Excellency Governor of Jammu and Kashmir on 25^th August 2012 at 10.00am at Bakshi stadium Srinagar. He said that tournament will be played at two venues Bakshi stadium and at Polo ground Srinagar.

Mr. Samuel informed that 9 teams representing various postal circles of the country will participate in the tournament viz; Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, West Bengal, Delhi Orissa and host Jammu and Kashmir. Near about 200 players, officials and Volunteers will be involved in the “Srinagar 2012”, All India Postal Football Tournament Srinagar. The matches will be played from 8.00am to 9.30 am and 4.00pm to 5:30pm and there is free entry for all the games, he added.

Mr. Samuel also informed that matches will be played on league cum knockout basis and final match will be played at Bakshi Stadium on 29^th August 2012 at 4.00pm.

He claimed said during the football tournament fans will see top class players in action and spectators will see feast of Soccer moves on the field. This will encourage the youngsters of the valley to take to game of football and also improve the skills of the host players. Tournament will close with investiture ceremony and closing ceremony on 29^th 0f August 2012, he informed.

Tarigami for checking noise pollution in hospitals

SRINAGAR AUGUST, 24:- The Committee on Environment (EC) of Legislative Assembly headed by its Chairman Mr. M. Y. Tarigami today asked the concerned authorities to expedite identification of land for setting up of bio-medical waste plant in Srinagar so that environment degradation is checked effectively. One such plant will also be set up in Jammu for which land has already been identified.

On the directions of the of the EC, the Health and Medical education department has constituted a Committee for giving expert suggestions and opinion with regard setting up of bio medical waste plant.

Meanwhile, the University of Kashmir has also constituted an Expert Scientific Committee that shall recommended to the Legislative Committee necessary measures to be initiated by the Government agencies to arrest the degradation of environment in the State. The Committee shall be headed by the Vice Chancellor Prof Talat Ahmad with Head department of Environment Science, Prof Azra Kamli, Head Department of Botany, Prof Zaffar Reshi and Head Department of Earth Science Prof Shakil Romshoo as convenor.

Mr. Tarigami also asked the authorities to take the urgent measures for checking noise pollution in all hospitals of the State particularly in G. B. Pant hospital immediately.

Legislators, Mr. Ashok Kumar Khajuria, Dr. Shafi Ahmad Wani, Advocate Abdul Haq Khan, Mr. Abdul Razaq Zawora, Prof Garuram Bhagat, Er. Abdul Rashid, Mohammad Ashraf Ganai, and Ch. Sham Lal gave their valuable suggestions for protection of environment and pollution free State.

Among other, Secretary Health and Medical education Mr. M.K. Dwivedi, District Development Commissioner Srinagar, Mr. Baseer Ahmad Kahn, District Development Commissioner Budgam, Mr. Kurshid Ahmad Shah, Principle GMC, Dr. Qazi Masood, Director Health Services Kashmir, Dr. Saleem, Director NRHM, Dr. Yashpal Sharma and other officers from revenue, health, and medical education besides assembly secretariat attended the meeting.  

Seminar on linguistic and literary traditions of Kashmir held at KU

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24:- Markaz-i-Noor, Centre for Shaikh-ul Aalam Studies, University of Kashmir, Srinagar organised a two day Seminar on “Linguistic and Literary Traditions of Kashmir” at Ibn-i-Khaldun Auditorium of University of Kashmir here today. The Seminar has been organised in collaboration with Contemporary Arab and Muslim Cultural Studies Institute, University of North Texas and J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages.

            Deputy Chairman, J&K Legislative Council Mr. Mohammad Yousuf Taing presided over the function while as Dean Academic Affairs, KU Prof. A. M. Shah was the Chief guest on the occasion.

            Earlier, Chairman Markaz-i-Noor, Centre for Shaikh-ul-Aalam Studies Prof. Bashr Bashir welcomed the guests. Registrar University of Kashmir Dr. Syed Fayaz Ahmed was the guest of honour and Prof. Margoob Banihali, Dr. Sadat Munshi, Prof. Mohammad Zaman Azurda, Mr. Khalid Bashir, Deans, Directors, HODs, Principals, Faculty Members, litterateurs and students attended the function.

            Mr. Mohammad Yousuf Taing released Alamdar Journal, in Urdu language while as Dr. Syed Fayaz released Noor newsletter on the occasion. Prof. A.M. Shah released a book ‘Sargoshiyan’ written by Mr. B.N. Betab.

            In his presidential address Mr. M.Y. Taing gave a resume of the efforts of various literary circles in propagating and popularising Kashmiri Language in length and breadth of the State. He said that the government has introduced Kashmiri subject at primary level and the language is also being taught at University level with various research programmes invogue.

            Mr. Taing impressed upon one and all to work for giving the real status to the Kashmiri Language which it deserves. He said that the electronic and print media as well as J&K academy of art, Culture and Languages are playing a pivotal role in publishing the poetry and prose written by various prominent writers and poets in their Journals and Magazines regularly.

            Prof. Bashr Bashir in his welcome address expressed his gratitude to various governmental and non-governmental organisation for their strong support to Markaz-i-Noor in propagating the message of Shaikh-ul-Aalam, Shaikh Noor-ud-Din Wali(RA) among people living in not only J&K State but globally. He expressed hope that the Centre will receive the best cooperation and attention from eminent scholars, distinguished academicians and all literary circles in future so that more and more work is done in respect of popularising the poetry of Shaikh-ul-Aalam so that the people in general and Kashmiris in particular will be benefitted by the teachings of the great Saint.

            Prof. A. M. Shah in his address advocated for introduction of Kashmiri Languages at all levels so that the younger generation can learn their mother tongue which is vital for the society to flourish and will be blessed with the teachings of great Saints and intellectuals of the Valley.

            Prof. Margoob Banihali and Prof. Syed Fayaz also addressed the inaugural function on the occasion.

            The representative of The Contemporary Arab and Muslim Cultural Studies Institute, University of North Texas Dr. Sadat Munshi presented vote of thanks.

Power shut down on Aug 28

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24: According to Power Controller, Power Development Department, Kashmir Province, Bemina, Srinagar, power supply to the areas fed from 33 KV Wanganpora-Rainawari-Khanyar and Wanganpora-BAMK lines shall remain affected on the August 28, 2012 respectively from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in order to carry out necessary routine maintenance/repair works on the lines.

K ERA spends Rs 208 Cr. on improving road network in South Kashmir

CEO, ERA inspects Road and Bridge sub-projects in South Kashmir

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24: J&K ERA has so far spend Rs 208 crores on improving the inter-district connectivity and providing better road  access to world famous tourist destinations of Aharbal & Pahalgam in South Kashmir. Under the transport sector of its ongoing Multisector Project for Infrastructure Rehabilitation (MPIR) funded by Asian Development Bank (ADB), J&K ERA agency had taken up work on five major road sub-projects having total road length of more than 115 Kms.

            The road sub-projects taken up for execution by J&K ERA in South Kashmir included improvement and upgradation of 38 Km Pampore-Ladhoo-Khrew-Lethpora loop road, 24 Km Natipora-Newa- Pulwama road, 24 Km Habdipora-Kaddar-Qaimoh road, 29 Km Bijbehara–Langanbal Road (detour to Pahalgam), 38 Km Wonpoh-Chawalgam-Aharbal road and agency has also taken up construction of six bridge sub-projects namely Soafshali, Laktipora, Sail, Tokina, Kirkadal and Wahibugh bridges, out of which  work on Soafshali and Laktipora bridges has been completed while as work on remaining is nearing completion. .

            This was stated by the Chief Executive Officer, J&K ERA, Mr. Saurabh Bhagat during his daylong visit to South Kashmir road projects being executed by J&K ERA.

            Director Transport, J&K ERA, Mr. O.P Chadgal informed Chief Executive Officer that so far agency has completed work on 38 Km long Pampore- Ladhoo-Khrew-Wayun-Lethpora loop Road (road stands already commissioned) and work on 29 Km Bijbehara-Langanbal 24 Km Natipora-New Pulwama road and 42 Km Wonpoh-Chawalgam-Aharbal and 24 Km Habdipora-Kaddar-Qaimoh road projects is nearing completion since more than 90 percent physical progress has been achieved on these.

            CEO ERA also inspected macadamization work presently underway on Habdipora- Qaimoh road and directed contractors and engineers to ensure strict compliance to quality control parameters and project deadlines.

            CEO ERA also inspected work on Wonpoh-Aharbal and Natipora-New Pulwama road and also interacted with locals during inspection of work who acknowledged that upgradation of road network in these remote areas has improved their access to health, education and market facilities 

            Later, CEO ERA also inspected work on some bridges in south Kashmir which include Tokina bridge near Chersoo and construction of bridge near Wahibugh in Pulwama.

            During his visit to Tokina bridge, CEO instructed engineers to immediately start macadamization work on road stretch leading to Tokina bridge from National highway.  

Mohun Bagan to play in J&K, Chib reviews arrangements

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24: Minister for Medical Education, Youth Services & Sports, Mr. R. S. Chib today chaired a preliminary meeting to discuss the arrangements for the conduct of goodwill football matches between the Mohun Bagan Football team, Kolkatta and J&K-XI.

            The event would be conducted by the J&K State Sports Council in collaboration with J&K Football Association in which two goodwill football matches between Mohun Bagan Football Club, Kolkatta and JK-XI would be played on September 8, at Srinagar and September 11 at Jammu respectively.

            Addressing the meeting, the Minister said that the conduct of this event is sequel to the goodwill matches played recently between Mohammadan Sporting Club, Kolkatta and J&K-XI. He expressed happiness over the win   registered by the host team over the guest team in both the matches. He said that it was due to the repeated efforts of the department to conduct such national events to give exposure and attract local budding football players of the State towards this famous game.

Commissioner Secretary Youth Services& Sports, Mr. Vinod Koul, Director Information, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad, Director Youth Services & Sports S. Jaipal Singh, Secretary, J&K State Sports Council, Daleep Thussu, Director, News, Doordarshan, Srinagar Mr. Bashir Malik, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. M A Qadri, SSP, Srinagar, Mr. Syed Ashiq Bukhari, Joint Director, School Education, Kashmir, Mrs. Suriya Akhter,  Joint Secretary, J&K State Sports Council, Prof Bashir Ahmad, , President, J&K Football association, Mr. Z A Thakur, besides representatives from Security, Tourism Development Corporation and Municipality attended the meeting.

58^th Junior National School Games from September 3: Chib

SRINAGAR AUGUST, 24:- The 58^th under-17 Football Championship is being organized by the Department of Youth Services & Sports from September 03 under the aegis of School Games Federation of India in which over 24 teams across the country are expected to participate.

Minister for Medical Education, Youth Services & Sports, Mr. R S Chib chaired a high level meeting to finalize the arrangements for the conduct of these games today.

The meeting was told that the event will kick start at 11 am on September 3 at Bakshi Stadium and matches will be played at Kashmir University, Islamia College and Pologround.

The Minister asked for ensuring massive participation of youngsters to witness the event because such events encourage the budding talented youth.

Boarding, lodging, water, power and sanitation issues were discussed threadbare during the meeting.

 Commissioner Secretary Youth Services& Sports, Mr. Vinod Koul, District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. Baseer Ahmad Khan, Director Information, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad, Director Youth Services & Sports S. Jaipal Singh, Secretary, J&K State Sports Council, Daleep Thussu, Director, News, Doordarshan, Srinagar Mr. Bashir Malik, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. M A Qadri, SSP, Srinagar, Syed Ashiq Bukhari, Joint Director, Youth Services & Sports Mr. Madan Lal, Joint Director, School Education, Kashmir, Mrs. Suriya Akhter, Joint Secretary, J&K State Sports Council, Prof Bashir Ahmad, President, Principal, Physical Education College, Ganderbal Dr. Hartet Singh, J&K Football association, Mr. Z A Thakur, Deputy Director Youth Services and Sports and Vice President National School Games, Mr. Ashok Kumar, besides representatives from Security, Traffic Police, Tourism Development Corporation and Municipality attended the meeting.

Dy CM directs officers to ensure complete transparency in their funding

JMC generates Rs.12.75 crore revenue during last fiscal

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24: Taking serious note of slow progress in completion of some projects taken up under urban development sector, the Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Tara Chand has elucidated upon the officers to speed up the pace of work and complete them in a time bound manner. He directed the officers to bring more efficiency in their functioning otherwise action against the officials responsible for delay would become imperative.

Deputy Chief Minister was reviewing the progress of current financial year’s working plan of Housing and Urban Development Departments of Jammu division at an officers meeting held here today.

Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Suresh Kumar, Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), Director, Urban Local Bodies, Jammu besides senior officers of Jammu Development Authority and Jammu Urban Development Agency were present on the occasion.

The meeting was informed that JMC has earned revenue of Rs. 12.75 crore during last financial year which is likely to touch Rs. 15 crore this year.  It was told that under Basic Service for Urban Poor, Rs. 8.09 crore stand expended for completion of 288 works out of Rs. 33 crore projected plan during last fiscal while the Corporation has collected Rs. 12.50 lakh as user charges from households and shopkeepers so far during current fiscal against the target of Rs. 70 lakh.

It was further informed that Jammu Urban Development Agency expended Rs. 13.70 crore during last fiscal while the agency sponsored 189 loan cases against a target of 232 beneficiaries.  551 beneficiaries belonging to weaker sections of the society have been sponsored by the agency for receiving training in different trades against a target of 556 during the same period. 

The meeting was further informed that Rs. 25 lakh have been earmarked for setting up of solid waste disposal facilities in three towns of the division by Urban local Bodies during this financial year.  

Mr. Tara Chand directed Commissioner, JMC to take necessary measure for making traffic signals functional at all the identified locations to ease the traffic pressure on the roads while the officers of  JDA were directed to take necessary steps for beautification of Jammu city . All the officers were directed to ensure timely submission of utilization certificates so that further funds are ensured from the Central Government for completion of the projects.

Underlining need for judicious utilization of funds, the Deputy Chief Minister asked the officers to invest available financial resources and make sure that profit is increased in view of the present market trends.

Sagar inaugurates SARAS Mela

          SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24: Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has underscored the need for providing the proper marketing facilities for the various hand made goods and handicrafts being made by various self help groups.

            The Minister was speaking after inaugurating 12 days 7^th SARAS Mela being organized by the Department of Rural Development at Kashmir Haat here today.

            Commissioner Secretary Rural Development Mr. Farooq Ahmad Peer, Director Rural Development Kashmir Mir Altaf Ahmad and other senior officers of the department were present.

            The Minister while complementing the department for organizing the Mela said that these types of Mela’s are imperative for providing the proper marketing facilities to the various products being manufactured by the Self Help groups. He said that the local artisans get the much required market as well as interaction with various other self help groups coming from different parts of the State as well as Country.

            As many as 198 stalls have been installed showcasing the various products made by various self help groups constituted under SGSY scheme of the Rural Development department of the State as well as from the different parts of the country.

            It is pertinent to mention here that around 500 artisans from 16 states of the country would be showcasing their products in 12 days Mela.

Aijaz reviews functioning of Fisheries Deptt

JAMMU, AUGUST 24- Minister for Haj, Auqaf and Fisheries, Mr. Aijaz Ahmed Khan, today reviewed the functioning of Fisheries Department at a meeting of senior officers of Jammu region at summer secretariat.

During the meeting, the Minister took stock of physical and financial status besides revenue realization by the department during the current financial year .

The Minister was informed about various achievements recorded by the department under Fisheries sector. It was  revealed that the department has constructed 396 carp units under RKVY, Prime Minister's Package and other central sponsored schemes. Besides, 284 carp ponds have been constructed by the farmers in the private sector while 313 community ponds have been established in Jammu Division which were stocked with quality fish seeds which are leased by the Village Panchayats to the rural unemployed youths. The department has also constructed 24  trout units under RKVY in various districts of Jammu division. In addition, the department of fisheries is playing a pivotal role for conservation of natural water bodies and protection of its icthyofauna.

The meeting was also told that there are 4621 fishermen in Jammu division registered with the department and these fishermen are given accidental insurance cover to the tune of Rs. 50,000. The bonafide fishermen have also been covered under housing schemes within the assistance of Rs. 50,000/- for construction of low cost houses. So far, the department has provided 987 low cost houses under RKVY and CSS schemes.

            During the year 2011-12, the department has realized a revenue of Rs. 123.01 lakh in Jammu province.

             The Minister said that adequate seeds were distributed among government, community and private fish farms to increase the productivity and to enhance the revenue. He also reviewed the status of fish stocking and asked the concerned to make concerted efforts to increase the production adding that advanced infrastructure is vital to increase the production. He asked the officers to be careful in selection of beneficiaries so that benefit could reach to the deserving. 

            The Minister stressed upon the officers to work with utmost zeal and commitment with emphasis on trickling down the benefits of centrally and state sponsored schemes to the rural belts.   He said that fish culture has come up in a big way in private sector as it has provided employment opportunities to the unemployed youth.

            The meeting was attended by Joint Director Fishries Jammu, Mr. R.P Singh Bali, Joint Director Fisheries Projects, Mr. K.S. Charak and other senior officers .

Union Home Secretary calls on Governor

          SRINAGAR, AUGUST 24 – Mr. R. K. Singh, Union Home Secretary, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor Jammu and Kashmir, at Raj Bhavan here this evening.

          During their an hour and a half meeting, the Governor and the Union Home Secretary discussed various important matters relating to border management, the obtaining external security situation and issues relating to internal order.

          Other matters relating to trans-LoC trade and securing sustained peace and normalcy in the State also came up for discussion during the meeting.

NC committed to autonomy, wont compromise on political agenda: Rather

 “Can’t provide Govt jobs to 6 lakh unemployed youths”

“Am surprised over attack on my person, aimed at tarnishing my image”

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): Veteran National Conference leader and State Finance Minister Abdul Rahim Rather said his party will never compromise on its key political agenda and it (NC) was committed to Autonomy of the state.

“We are committed to Autonomy of the J&K state, for which a resolution has been passed by the State Assembly. No one can reject the resolution and we will never compromise on it”, Rather told VOS on Friday.

Regarding differences between members of the two coalition parties over Justice Sagheer WG recommendations, Rather said the Cabinet Sub Committee studying the Justice Sagheer report is yet to submit its final report the state cabinet.

“It is a sensitive matter. The final report is yet to be submitted to the state cabinet, however, autonomy is our agenda and we will stick to it”, Rather said.

Regarding the differences between members of the CSC, he said “Everyone is entitled to his point of view and the CSC members have the right to have their own opinion”, adding if anyone calls autonomy a closed chapter, it is his personal opinion.

“Sagheer Committee is an 8 member committee and accommodates members from all regions of the state”, he added.

Dispelling reports of dispute within the coalition government, the Finance Minister said, “The government is running in a cordial atmosphere between the coalition partners. All coalition coordination committee meetings were held in a cordial atmosphere. Wherever there were differences, a healthy discussion was held and matters were resolved”.

Regarding growing dissatisfaction among Congress workers, he said, “Everything is fine in the coalition, however, they can raise matters within their own party”.

When asked about the growing discontent among people regarding governance, he said it was not possible for the government to fulfill all desires of people. “As soon as one desire or demand is fulfilled, it is natural that people come up with another. In every democracy, there are expectations, however, the government’s resources are limited and requirements are huge”, Rather told VOS, adding the governance in the state over the past three years has been exemplary.

The NC stalwart, elected to the state Assembly for the sixth time, said unemployment was a huge challenge not only to J&K but to the whole of India and government cannot absorb everyone.

“For last 3 years, the government has appointed 40000 youth and surveys tell us 6 lakh youth are unemployed in the state. Since 1947 the state has employed only 4 and a half lakh youth, how can we provide government jobs to 6 lakh youths in 6 years”, he asked.

“Recruitment agencies like PSC, SSRB, Police and other organizations have employed 40000 youth during last three years, however, initiatives like SKEWPY etc have been taken to help the youth develop entrepreneurial abilities. We are providing all possible assistance to the unemployed youth of the state”.

The seasoned politician expressed surprise over attacks against his own person from different quarters.

“I am surprised; I am an active political worker for last 35 years and have won 6 elections. I am at loss to understand why I have been personally attacked during last three years”, he said.

He said some vested interests were hell bent upon maligning his image.

“No body has been able to prove anything against me. Whoever, including opposition leader Muzaffar Hussain Beigh, leveled allegations against me had to apologize later”, he said adding pointing fingers is some people’s habit which does not worry him. (VOS)

PDP for withdrawal of cases against Udhampur youth

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): Demanding immediate withdrawal of cases against two Udhampur youth, booked for allegedly wearing a particular green colour dress, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chief spokesperson Nayeem Akhter today said “such tactics shows how the present government exposes youth of the state to worst kind of manipulations and suppression”.

In a statement issued here today, Akhter said, “This is a ridiculous atrocity perpetrated by the present dispensation on youth and resorting to such kind of tactics, shows how this government exposes our youth to worst kind of repression.”

He said such kind of police action can in no way contribute positively and will instead promote lawlessness in the state.

“It is disgraceful and reprehensible, and it is abhorrent that youth are arrested and frivolous charges are fabricated against them,” Akhter said, while demanding immediate withdrawal of cases against the two Udhampur youth.  

Hurriyat aghast over curbs on religious activities of leaders

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): APHC has strongly condemned the curbs laid on the religious activities, Friday prayers, and Eid prayers by authorities in the Muslim dominated place of Jammu and Kashmir. Terming it as a direct interference in the religious matters of Muslims, the party said such an act on the part of government was highly “unacceptable”.

While expressing serious concern over this matter, APHC Chairman Mirwaiz Umar faroooq said “when the Muslim Ummah was getting blessed on the occasion of Eid, the puppet government did not only stopped the hurriyat leaders from offering the eid nimaz by detaining them in their homes, they also stopped them from sharing the sacred festival day with the oppressed kashmiri people”.

While addressing a mammoth gathering outside the Jamia Masjid, Mirwaiz said it was highly unfortunate that such officials from outside J&K have been been imposed on kashmiri people on the administrative level who have no understanding of the religious sensibilities of islam. He said the same holds true with the government who goes to shrines and religious centres claiming they are Muslims by putting turbans on their heads.

APHC chairman regretted over the fact that government was hell bent to destroy the Islamic ethos and tradition of Kashmir. He said concerted efforts were underway to undermine the Islamic teachings in Kashmir. He said it would not be allowed at any cost. He said APHC would expose all such conspiracies which have been hatched to weaken the Islam.

Mirwaiz warned the government that it should end its anti-islam policies in Kashmir or otherwise face dangerious consequences.

Further speaking, the APHC Chairman said it was shameful and regtretting while seeing many youth indulging in anti-islam and immoral acts on the day of eid.  He said that eid does not mean going to picnic, but it’s the day of seeking blessing and asking for forgiveness from Allah. He said instead of expressing mutual brotherhood and harmony within the community, the youth were indulging in bad things which were against the teaching of Islam. He also advised parents to give good teachings and bring up their children within the influence of Islam.

Meanwhile many hurriyat leaders addressed gathering across the valey. Agha Syed Hssan Al Moosvi addressed people at Budgam, while Moulana Abbas Ansari at Gund Hassi Bhat, Mukhtar Ahmad Waza Bijbehara, and Syed Bashir Andrabi at Pulwama

Rather’s son rejects allegations of Power theft

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): Hilal Ahmad Rather, an entrepreneur and son of state Finance Minister Abdul Rahim Rather has rejected allegations of power theft against him, calling them baseless and aimed at maligning his image.

“It is a sustained campaign against us to tarnish our image which has been going on for last three years. I have been paying my dues and bills regularly and have never defaulted, which is on record”, he said in a statement to VOS.

“I have voluntarily asked the department to revise the load which was revised and am paying as per the revised load, he said adding there is no dispute and he is ready to cooperate with the PDD authorities.

The son of the senior-most Cabinet Minister had been accused of power theft.

He runs a call centre and manages the Simula Global Group of companies from a complex located in Jammu.

 It was alleged that, the company was paying for a load of 5 Kilowatts against an actual power usage is 95 kilowatts.

Hilal was also accused of not obtaining a proper permit from the power department and there was no meter at the building.

However, he has blamed his political opponents for maligning him. "There is no wrongdoing on my part. I have a metre installed. We are being maligned because we belong to a political family. I am willing to meet face to face with power dept officials," he said. (VOS)

Omar Abdullah does not need a certificate from killers– Tanvir Sadiq

“They are a party which lacks credibility, morality, ethics and integrity”

“Come clean on parleys between Mehbooba and HM Commander”

Srinagar August 24:  The National Conference today lambasted the PDP saying that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah does not need certificate from Killers who lack credibility, morality, ethics and integrity.

“Omar Abdullah does not need sermons from anybody, least from a party which is based on, treachery, deceit and massacres “said National Conference Spokesman Tanvir Sadiq.

The NC spokesman while lauding the effort of Omar Abdullah said that his sincere effort can be seen by a series of historical steps taken by his government and the latest just two days back by the government to finance the Bagliar II in spite of facing tremendous hardships.

He said the Chief Minister believes in the doctrine of “actions speaks louder than words”,  unlike Mufti Mohammad Sayeed who not only stopped the Baghliar 1 project in his dark regime but also  drained the state exchequer by taking foreign trips and organizing ribbon functions

 “Show me one power project initiated by the PDP government in their tenure, they only looted the exchequer, had people killed and made riches” said Tanvir

The NC Spokesman said that Omar Abdullah has all along strengthened the institutions and his credibility and integrity is known to everyone. He said it’s his vision and commitment that Panchayat election happened after 34 years and its subsequent empowerment. He said the Public Service guarantee Act, Right to Information Act, Accountability commission are few of many steps taken by the NC government to ensure people’s empowerment.

“During PDP regime security bunkers were given a five star look and concretized, Omar Abdullah not only ensured houses and hotels occupied by security forces are vacated but ensured Mufti’s five star bunkers are demolished” said Tanvir.

“ Omar Abdullah is committed to the revocation of AFSPA, and the time is not far when this will happen, we don’t spread lies unlike PDP who in the name of healing touch gave killing touch by killing scores of people” said Tanvir

Hitting hard at the PDP Tanvir Sadiq said “The Mufti’s used to live in Custodian house, how come now they have built Palatial houses, got their kith and kins admitted in prestigious schools of London and what about the business empire they built in Bangalore?” asked Tanvir “They have all along encouraged corruption and made riches overnight” he added

 “They spread lies about peace but people have not forgotten how mercilessly they had 5 Hizbul Mujahedeen Commanders killed who were ready to talk peace” he said

The NC Spokesman asked the PDP leadership to come clean on what were the secret parlays between Mehbooba Mufti and Arif Khan at an undisclosed location in the hills of Akingam Sofi Shali, who was later given safe passage to cross over to Pakistan by Muftis’s.

“He asked them what was the secret that Arif Khan had that he was threatening Mufti Sayeed?,  The people have all the details of the deliberations held between Mehbooba and Arif Khan and one day people will bring it to fore” said NC Spokesman

Reacting sharply to the utterance of PDP Spokesman about Chief Minister Omar Abdullah carried by a section of media, the spokesman of the J&K National Conference said that Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, Mehbooba Mufti and their spokesman have always played with the sentiments of the people.

“The PDP spokesman has immaturely quoted a separatist leaders targeting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah but he seems to be oblivious of the statement by the same leader who has time and again said that Mufti Sayeed is responsible for killing and massacring people both in his regime as well as through Jagmohan “said Tanvir “does that mean they accept this fact as well “ asked Tanvir

The NC Spokesman said that it is a well known fact that he is known to have used extra constitutional authority during the regime of Mufti Sayeed and acted as Principal Secretary GAD despite the fact him being just a Secretary “He has Flouted all rules and regulations” he added.

“It is a very well known fact that PDP and their leaders are famous for their intrigue, dirty machinations” said NC Spokesman “ They need to join a school to understand the dynamics of Kashmir politics otherwise the day is not far when they will be Sans People, Sans Democratic and Sans Party” he added

CPI (M) for compensation to flood, rain victims

Jammu, Aug 24 (VOS): The Jammu Regional Committee of CPI (M) has expressed grief and concern over the loss of life, property, crops and fruit in Jammu region due to heavy rains and floods.

Sham Prasad Kesar, Regional Secretary of the party while addressing a meeting of workers appealed to the Chief Minister to intervene personally to start rescue and relief for the victims as early as possible.

“Teams of concerned officers be deputed to collect exact information of the loss and on spot financial or any other type of help to the needy people”, he said.

The recent rains and floods have made many people homeless and even taken the precious lives of their family members in some cases, he said in a statement. Roads and School buildings also got damaged due to this havoc of rains and floods.
The CPI (M) has demanded adequate compensation to the flood & rain victims and immediate repair of roads and buildings.

Landslide kills laborer in Budgam

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): A laborer died after coming under a landslide while working at an excavation site in Budgam, police sources said.

Abdul Rehman Kumar, 55, son of Late Abdul Rahim resident of Branjan, Budgam, died when he was buried under a landslide while excavating soil in village Branjan. The body of deceased was later dug out and handed over to his relatives for last rites, the sources added.

2 commit suicide

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): Two persons died in two separate incidents after consuming some poisonous substance. Another man, consumed poison and is undergoing treatment in a hospital, a police spokesperson said.

Rafiq Ahmad Dhobi son of Ghulam Ahmad resident of Freshthar, Kreeri, consumed some poisonous substance at his home. He was immediately shifted to SKIMS Soura, however, he breathed his last on way to the hospital, added the spokesperson.

A 22 year old lady (name with held) resident of Bragpora Anantnag consumed some poisonous substance at home. She was shifted to District Hospital, Anantnag for treatment, where from she was referred to Srinagar for further treatment.  However, she died on way to Srinagar.Anantnag, added the spokesperson..

In yet another incident, a person Ghulam Ahmad Mir son of Mohammad Yousuf resident of Zerhama attempted to end his life by consuming some poisonous substance at his home. He was shifted to Sub District Hospital, Kupwara for treatment.

4 injured in road mishaps

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): Four people were injured in two different road accidents in Anantnag and Baramulla districts, police said.

A Maruti Car bearing registration number JK03C/7543 hit and injured a pedestrian, Abdul Majeed Zargar, 55, son of Aziz Zargar resident of Iqbal Abad, K.P road Mattan. The injured was shifted to District Hospital, Anantnag for treatment, it added.

Meanwhile, a Motorcycle bearing registration number JK01/5887 met with an accident near Rauran, Baramulla, resulting in injuries to three passengers. All the injured were shifted to hospital for treatment, police further added.

Indo Pak leadership should take concrete steps to solve Kashmir issue: Yasin Malik

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): Stating that they weren’t against the friendship between India and Pakistan, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Chairman, Muhammad Yasin Malik, Friday urged the leadership of both the countries to leave their non-serious approach and take concrete steps to solve the vexed Kashmir issue in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of kashmiri people and by involving them in the resolution process.

Addressing party workers and people from all walks of life at JKLF Maisuma officer here during an Eid Milan party, Malik said, “Non-serious approach of India and Pakistan towards Kashmir will not only become cause of destruction for subcontinent but to the whole world. Parliamentarians of Pakistan and other policy makers are talking to their Indian counterparts these days. This hasn’t only rekindled hope among Kashmiris but in the whole world.”

“However, once again the basic party of the dispute which is Kashmiris has been left out in the dialogue process between the two countries. This approach of leadership of India and Pakistan will bring negative results instead of positive results,” he added.

The JKLF Chairman said that despite offering countless sacrifices, Kashmiri’s weren’t against the friendship between the two countries. “However, we have a right to ask the leadership of both the countries how can they succeed by putting the Kashmir issue at back burner. As Kashmir issue is being kept linger on, the future of our coming generations will become bleak. Our new generation inherits dispute in legacy which doesn’t leave him till his death,” Malik added.

He said that youth of Kashmir were told by the world that they should shun violence and fight peacefully for their rights. “World should have respected this verdict of Kashmiris, but instead Kashmiris are being subjected to worst kind of torture and humiliation,” Malik said.

Warning that if immediate steps weren’t taken by India and Pakistan to solve Kashmir dispute, the JKLF Chairman said it could lead to a disastrous situation. “It is high time that leadership of both the countries involve Kashmiris who are the basic party of the dispute in the dialogue process,” he added.

On the prevailing unexpected heat wave in Kashmir Malik said, “Due to our wrong deeds. We should submit ourselves before the Almighty Allah and plead for forgiveness. “Praying for the rain Yasin said we all should submit before the almighty.

At the end of the Eid Milan all the people prayed for the end of heat wave and rainfall.

besides Yasin Sahib ceremony was addressed by jklf leaderds Advocate Bashir Ahmad Bhat, Ghulam Rasool Dar Eidhi, Showkat Ahmad Bakshi, Noor Mohammad kalual, Master Mohammad Afzal, Zahoor Ahmed Butt, Mohammad Altaf Hussain, Siraj-ud-Din Mir, Nisar Ahmad Jilani, Mohammad Jamal, Ashraf bin Salam,prof javed, district presidents Javed Ahmad Bhat, Abdul Rashid maglu, Mohammad Rafiq War, Abdul Sattar. Mohammad Ishaq Ganai, Bashir Ahmad boya, Mohammad Aslam Sheikh and Gulzar Ahmad pahalwan. Dice was held by senior leader sheikh Abdul Rashid.

NC concerned over loss to property, crops in Jammu

Jammu, Aug 24 (VOS): Provincial President J&K National Conference Jammu Rattan Lal Gupta showed deep concern over the heavy rains which caused great loss to the precious human lives and property in Jammu province.

In a Press statement Gupta said rain water entered into the residential houses of slum areas of Jammu city and other major towns of Jammu province which caused huge losses to the property and crops which resulted in great hardships to the inhabitants of these areas.

Gupta expressed his deep sympathies with the people who have been suffering due to heavy floods and rains.

He appealed to the concerned authorities to tackle such nature calamites by providing immediate relief to the victims.

Gpta also requested the Revenue authorities to visit the effected rains and flood hit areas so that on the spot assessment of losses be made in order to provide compensation to the victims.

He apealed the rank and file of National Conference including legislators  of Jammu Province to provide  full help to the suffers of the heavy flood and rains and also extend their full cooperation to the concerned  authorities so that the sufferings of the people be mitigated .

Zafar for meaningful dialogue, inclusion of Kashmiris

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): Jammu and Kashmir Salvation Movement (JKSM) Chairperson and APHC leader Zaffar Akbar Bhat said the inclusion of Kashmiris is vital to the meaningful dialogue towards resolution of Kashmir dispute.

Zaffar Akbar Bhat while addressing a gathering at Hanjigund in Chadoora, said Kashmir was one of the oldest unresolved disputes of the world and its solution was not possible without taking the Kashmiri people on board.

He said that the dispute could only be settled through tripartite talks including Pakistan, India and the real Kashmiri leadership.

Zafar said that peace and stability and economic prosperity of not only Pakistan and India but the whole the south Asia was hidden in the peaceful settlement of Kashmir dispute.

Expressing concern over continued illegal detention of people under draconian laws like Public Safety Act (PSA) of Hurriyet leaders and activists, he urged India to revoke draconian laws, release all detained Hurriyet leaders and activists and stop gross human rights violations in Kashmir to create conducive environment for talks on Kashmir.

Zaffar Akbar Bhat urged United Nations to take strong notice of the miseries of people by black laws imposed in Kashmir by government of India

JK Postal Circle hosting Srinagar 2012 football tournament

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): The Jammu & Kashmir Postal Circle is hosting the All India Postal Football tournament in Srinagar from August 25 to 29 titled “Srinagar 2012”.

John Samuel, Chief Postmaster General, Jammu & Kashmir said that this national tournament will showcase Kashmir as a good destination for sports & tourism.

The tournament will be inaugurated by Governor of Jammu & Kashmir N N Vohra at the Bakshi Stadium here on 25th August 2012.

The tournament is being played at  Bakshi Stadium and  Polo ground venues with 9 teams representing various Postal Circles in the country participating in it.

The Postal circles taking part in the tournament include Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Utter Pradesh, Haryana, West Bengal, Delhi, Orissa and hosts Jammu & Kashmir.

“Nearly 200 players, officials & volunteers will be involved in the “Srinagar 2012”, All India Postal Football tournament Srinagar. Games will be played at 08:00 a.m. to 09:30 a.m. & 04:00 p.m. to 05:30 pm. The entry is free for the games”, said an official press handout.

“Tournament will be played on league cum knockout basis. Teams will be divided into two groups & two top teams from each group will play knockout part of tournament. Final match of the tournament will be played at Bakshi Stadium on 29 th August 2012 at 4 p.m”, it added.

Tournament will close with investiture ceremony & closing function on 29th August 2012 at 5 p.m, the handout said.

Hyderpora residents apprehend thief in broad day light

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): Residents of Khawaja Bagh Mushtaq Colony, Hyderpora in a daring attempt today nabbed  a thief, namely, Imtiyaz Ahmad Dar of Laam Nishat who was fleeing after burgling the house of Sajjad Bazaz, a prominent journalist and Editor of J&K Bank in broad day light. The thief was handed over to the Humhama police along with stolen item (Lenovo laptop i7) by the residents.

According to the eye witnesses, a group of three to four youth had barged into the house of Sajjad Bazaz at around 1.30 pm when people in the area were busy in offering nimaz. At the time of the theft, there was nobody in the house. Since the house was locked, the thieves had broken the window pane and facilitated their entry into the house. They caused extensive damage to the wardrobes and other household articles. However due to some disturbance, the thieves jumped out of the house. While fleeing they were spotted by some residents of the area and chased them. They were successful in nabbing one Imtiyaz Ahmad Dar of Laam Nishat and a Lenovo laptop (i7) was recovered from him which he had stolen from the house.

In the meantime the residents informed police station Humhama and handed over the apprehended thief to the police along with the recovered laptop. It is second time the thieves have burgled the house of Sajjad Bazaz in the past 12 months.

Notably, the area has been witnessing continuous thefts for the past two years and many houses were looted and robbed of lakhs of rupees and jewelry . The apprehended thief divulged to the residents that they were involved in major thefts in the area.

The residents have demanded stringent action against the culprit and those looted during the past two years have demanded recovery of their valuables from the apprehended thief.

Militants attack police guard, snatch rifle

Snatched rifle retrieved: Police

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): In a valiant response against the militants, local youth chased fleeing militants who had snatched a rifle from a police guard at Jamia Masjid, Srinagar, a police spokesman said in a statement here.

“A police constable of IRP Bn II who was performing his duty of guarding Jamia Masjid, Srinagar from the rear was attacked by militants. The militants taking advantage of huge crowd, who had thronged the Jamia Masjid on Friday, hit the constable on head with a pistol. He fell unconscious in the sudden assault. The militants fled away after taking the service rifle of the injured constable with him”, read the statement.

“However, in a dare devil act, a police constable who was supported by local youth chased the militants at Bhori Kadal. The fleeing militants were overpowered and the Insas rifle was recovered from them. Police also seized a Chinese pistol and four rounds. However, the militants fled from the spot”, the statement added.

J&K Bank distributes 397 KCC Cards in Kathua

Srinagar, Aug 24 (VOS): The Jammu and Kashmir Bank organized a Kissan Credit Card (KCC) Loan Mela at Parole in Kathua, which was attended by a large gathering of farmers including Sarpanches and Panches from twelve different villages i.e. Darallana, Goond, Lakhnote, Barmori, Saidpur, Mirpur Jaggo, Pandori, Mirpur Ram, Jakhbar, Muthi Jagir, kalyanpur and Kokhyal.

President and Zonal Head Jammu (Central) O P Sharma was the chief guest on the occasion.

Expressing happiness on the peoples’ keen participation Zonal Head assured them of complete support from the Bank which, he said will reach out to every village of the zone and issue KCC cards to the eligible growers.

Distributing the Kissan Credit Cards among the farmers, he said, “The B.U Parole has within a short span of two and half months identified and processed 397 cases involving an amount of Rs 150.00 lacs.”

He explained to the gathering in detail the KCC scheme along with other schemes of the Bank and encouraged the farmers to avail KCC at 4% simple rate of interest and also avail accidental insurance cover of Rs 50000.  

 Under its Financial Inclusion Programme J&K Bank plans to open Saving Bank Account of each and every village adult individual even with zero balance and then his/her financial needs will be fulfilled by providing loans at cheaper rates like under DRI scheme, he added.  

Besides farmers a large number of local business men of the area were also present in the mela, who appreciated the initiative of the Bank for providing timely support to the farmer community through KCC scheme.

Cluster Head Kathua Suresh Kotwal presented vote of thanks

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