THEDAILY

VOICE OF SRINAGAR

SRINAGAR, THURSDAY, 04 SHAWAAL 1433 AH ; 23 AUGUST 2012

Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com

NEWS

Calls for creating large corpus of scientists, technocrats

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22 – Emphasizing the tremendous role of science and technology in nation building, Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor Jammu and Kashmir, has called for creating a vast corpus of scientists and technocrats to tackle varied problems and taking the State and the country fast forward on the path of self-reliance, progress and prosperity.

          The Governor, as Chief Guest, was inaugurating the 5-day 3^rd Science Camp for “Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE)” for students, organized by the National Institute of Technology, Srinagar at SKICC here today. This Science Camp, in which more than 500 talented 10 Plus 2 science students from the Kashmir Valley are participating, has been sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, under its INSPIRE Programme.

          The Governor observed that unless we are a sound knowledge society we cannot achieve rapid development and growth. He added that in Jammu and Kashmir we have to deal, perhaps more than several other parts of India, challenges which are being generated by climate change and global warming. He said that tackling such complex problems requires expertise in various arenas of scientific knowledge. He observed that scientific and technical knowledge is the key to addressing problems and speeding up the pace of growth.

          The Governor complimented Prof. Rajat Gupta, Director, National Institute of Technology, Srinagar, for organizing an impressive gathering of talented students, many among whom had scored 95% to 100% marks in their Board examinations. He impressed upon the students to fully avail the excellent opportunity afforded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, to hear and interact with the best known scientific brains in the country in these INSPIRE Camps, and also decide to pursue studies in the science stream by availing the support being offered to them. He added that it is the responsibility of students to make the best use of this opportunity and wished them a very bright future ahead.  

          Mr. Abdul Gani Malik, Minister for Higher Education, stressed for availability of adequate trained human resource to secure speedy development of any area. He said that there is need for a well planned management of knowledge keeping in view the present and future requirements of the State in all spheres of development. For this purpose, he added that talent needs to be attracted and INSPIRE Programme provides this opportunity.     

          Prof. Asis Datta, former Vice Chancellor, Jawaharlal Nehru University, observed that youth are the future of the country, who are to shoulder the responsibility of nation building. He said that science and technology has a great role in the development process and it must be uppermost in our minds that how the country and the people benefit from this knowledge.

          Prof. Abdul Wahid, Vice Chancellor, Central University of Kashmir, observed that knowledge is power, adding that acquiring knowledge is imperative for growth and development. He said that study of science is all the more important as it inspires us to go in for innovations effecting human lives. In this context, he dwelt on the initiatives taken by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, to attract talented students for pursuing science as a career.             Prof. Talat Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, speaking on the occasion said that the youth of the State are highly talented and expressed the hope that more and more students would pursue science as a career. He congratulated Prof. Rajat Gupta, Director, National Institute of Technology, for organizing this well attended INSPIRE Programme.     

          Mr. Gazzanfar Hussain, Secretary, Higher Education, hoped that organizing of INSPIRE Programmes would go a long way in attracting young minds to the study of science and pursue science as a career. He added that dynamics of economic development requires creation of a pool of scientists for securing sustained growth in varied spheres.   

          Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Rajat Gupta, Director, National Institute of Technology, Srinagar, gave details of the students and the scientists participating in the THIRD INSPIRE CAMP being organized by the National Institute of Technology. He thanked the Governor for inaugurating this Camp.     

          In his welcome address, Prof. M. D. Mufti, stated that more than 800 students participated in the earlier two such Programmes organized by the Institute.      

          Dr. M. A. Shah, Convener, INSPIRE-III, presented a Vote of Thanks.

Deputation from Baba Shukurudin Shrine meets Governor

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22 – A deputation led by Moulvi Muzaffar, Imam and Khateeb of the Baba Shukurudin Shrine, Watlab, Sopore, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today.

          The demands presented by the deputation to the Governor included upgradation and blacktopping of road from Sangri Top to Baba Shukurudin Shrine, augmentation of water supply and provision of uninterrupted power supply to the Shrine and, besides, creation of infrastructure for the promotion of tourism in the area.

          The Governor gave a patient hearing to the deputationists and assured that he would address the concerned authorities for the urgent resolution of the difficulties faced by the very large number of visitors to this centuries old Shrine.   

Principal Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School presents Memorandum to Governor

  

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22 – Sister Jyoti Thomas, Principal, Presentation Convent Higher Secondary School, Rajbagh, Srinagar, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today and presented to him a Memorandum of demands. She was accompanied by Sister Regi, Vice Principal of the School.        

          In the Memorandum, Sister Thomas urged the relocation of the bridge which is proposed to be constructed over Jehlum near the School. The Governor has asked Mr. A. H. Samoon, Divisional Commissioner (Kashmir) to afford an urgent hearing to the Principal of the School, for a viable resolution of the problem.

Mir stresses on tapping better human resource for manning agriculture

 SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22: Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir has stressed on tapping better human resource for managing the Agriculture Department in the State.

Chairing a high level meeting here today, the Minister said agriculture has evolved in the country manifold over the years and now it needs efficient and technically trained manpower to handle it. He asked the officers of the Department to give special attention to better human resource management.

Mr. Mir directed the concerned officers to minimize litigation by framing seniority and holding period reviews of the same besides holding regular promotions to keep the interest and motivation of the employees intact. He also asked them to follow the pending court cases with interest and keenness.

The meeting discussed cadre management, service rules, seniority etc and it was decided to revisit the old provisions in rules in view of the changing times.

Commissioner-Secretary, Agriculture, Mr. Shaleen Kabra, Secretary, General Administration Department, Mr. Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad, Secretary, Law, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Tantray, Director, Agriculture, Kashmir, Dr. Farooq A. Lone, Director, Agriculture, Jammu, Mr. Khajuria and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

PAC discusses power scenario in the State

Stressed for random checking of power thefts

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22- Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Legislative Assembly on Wednesday directed the officers of Power Development department to make enforcement wing to be more proactive and ensure random checking of illegal power connections so that such menace could be curbed.           

            The Committee, which met here under the Chairmanship of MLA Rafi Ahmad Mir stressed upon the concerned authorities to gear up their field functionaries and ensure to achieve maximum revenue from the consumers of the State as per the target fixed for the purpose.

             Legislators, Mr. Bashir Ahmad Magray, Syeed Bhasrat Ahmad Bukhari, Smt. Indu Pawar and Peerzada Mansoor Hussain gave their suggestions to improve the functioning of the PDD.

            The Panel lauded the PDD for providing un-interrupted power supply during the holy month of Ramadan. It also appreciated the department for recovery the tax amount from the firms who have executed the works. 

            Threadbare discussion was held on Baghliyar Power Project besides audit paras pertaining to PDD.

             After satisfactory reply from the department, the Committee dropped audit para pertaining to the PDD regarding excess payment due to admission of higher rates of duty tax.

            Principal Secretary, PDD Mr. Sudanshu Pandey briefed the Committee about the achievements registered by the department. He informed the meeting that Independent Consumer Grievance Redressal Cell shall be set up within 3 months for the redressal of the grievance of the consumers regarding excess billing etc. Mr. Pandey informed that the department is procuring electricity worth Rs.200 crores shortly. He also informed that the construction work on Bighliyar Power Project is in full swing.

            Among others, Principal Accountant General, J & K Dr. S. C. Pandey, Director General, Accounts and Treasuries Mr. Wali Mohammad Bhat, Development Commissioner (P) Mr. Manzoor Salroo, Chief Engineer, S & O Kashmir Mr. Gul Ayaz, Chief Engineer Jammu Ajay Gupta, Chief Engineer M & RE Kashmir Mr. Muzafar Mattoo, Chief Engineer RE Works NHPC Mr. L. K. Tripathi and other officers of PDD besides senior officers of Assembly Secretariat attended the meeting.               

Sagar for adequate capacity building of Panchayati Raj representatives

Inaugurating 2-day workshop at IMPA

Capacity Building a Continuous Process: CS

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22 – Stressing on the need for adequate capacity building of the Panchayati Raj representatives, the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that the same is necessary for making them understand their duties as well as for the proper implementation of the democratic decentralization of powers and various flagship schemes.

            The Minister was speaking at the inaugural function of two-day State Level Consultation Workshop on Capacity Building and Training of Panchayat Raj functionaries of Jammu and Kashmir held at IMPA, jointly organized by J&KIMPA and Department of Rural Development in collaboration with The Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA), New Delhi.

            The Chief Secretary, Mr. Madhav Lal, Director General, IMPA, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Commissioner Secretary Rural Development, F. A. Peer, Mr. S. S. Shani, Directors Rural Development, Kashmir and Jammu, Mir Altaf Ahmad, Mr. Shafeeq Ahmad Raina, Director PRIA, Mr. Manoj Roy and other senior officers of Rural Development Department besides Panchayati Raj representatives and representatives of Civil Society Organizations were present.

            Stressing on the proper coordination of the Panchayati Raj representatives with concerned departments, the Minister said that the same is imperative for the proper implementation of the Panchayati Raj institutions in the State. |He said that the government has already empowered the panches and sarpanches with the powers of 14 vital departments and in this regard the necessary orders have already been passed and instructions conveyed to the ground level for the same.

            “It is imperative and necessary that proper capacity building and awareness is created among these representatives so that they are well versed with the intricacies as well as nuances of the Panchayati Raj system, and can effectively contribute their bit in the success of the same as well as ensure that the various flagship schemes are implemented properly and plans for their respective areas are also conceived with their active participation”, the Minister said maintaining that the recommendations of the Committee headed by the Chief Secretary regarding the democratic devolution of powers have been implemented in toto.

            Mr. Sagar said that the government has fulfilled the promise of the democratic decentralization of the powers and certain vested interests who had earlier launched a campaign against the holding of the Panchayati elections have got frustrated and are trying to spread rumours and canards against the same. He said that the people of the State are wise enough to gauge the sincerity and the work done by the present coalition government as we believe in sustained action rather than resorting to rhetoric and falsehood.

            In his key-note address, Chief Secretary, Mr. Madhav Lal said that after holding successful Panchayat election, vigorous, sincere and sustained efforts have been made to devolve adequate powers to Panchayats in order to achieve the objectives of participatory planning process.

Terming capacity building as a continuous process Chief Secretary maintained that such workshops prove as catalyst to move forward. He said that objective of establishing Panchayat Raj in the state and empowering such institutions is to make the development process truly participatory thereby ensuring bottom up approach in formulation of ‘plans of development’.

Madhav Lal re-iterated that government is monitoring the overall grass root impact and how it can be continuously improved. He stressed on focused attention at District and block levels noting that proper documentation of the processes underway should also be carried out.  He called for ensuring that tried and tested techniques are applied and best practices of other states are included in our Panchayat Raj system.

Chief Secretary said that detailed Government orders and instructions towards empowerment of Panchayats, role and resource allocation and   other details’ have been issued from time to time. He said that the Additional District Development Commissioners have been nominated as Nodal Officer for ensuring that these orders are strictly adhered to.            

            Director General IMPA, Dr. Pawan Kotwal while giving a detailed account of capacity building of PRI’s said that as many as 400 departmental resource persons have been imparted the necessary training so that they can conduct and impart further training to the Panchayati Raj representatives in their respective areas. He said that various exposure tours to several Panchayats in various states of the Country have been organized in order to acquaint them regarding functioning of panchayats and the positive difference panchyats are making in these areas. He said that further tours are expected in coming months.

            Prof. S. N. Alam, the Coordinator of the two day workshop gave a brief overview of the training module for the participants.

Saifullah chairs House Committee Meeting

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22:- A meeting of the House Committee “to ascertain the factual position regarding the illegal encroachment of wet lands for its conversion for residential purposes in Srinagar, Baramulla and Bandipura district” of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly was held here today under the Chairmanship of MLA Mir Saif-ullaha.

            Threadbare discussion was held on various wetlands of the Valley and Tayota showroom.

            Legislators, Mr. Nazir Ahmed Gurezi, Syed Bashrat Ahmed Bukhari and Peerzada Mansoor Hussain gave their valuable suggestions for the preservation of the wetlands of the State.

            The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Mr. Asgar Samoon informed the Committee that consequent to the directions of the House Committee (Wetland) a large chunk of wetlands other than the propriety land stands transferred to the wetland department by the Revenue Department in district Srinagar, Baramulla and Budgam. The Divisional Commissioner added that almost all the formalities in this behalf have been completed and the physical demarcation of the said transferred land will be undertaken very shortly in collaboration with the concerned departments.   

            The Panel appreciated the efforts and compliance of the Revenue Authority and placed on record the efforts of Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, District Development Commissioners, Srinagar, Baramulla, Budgam and Bandipora for restoring wetlands.

            Among others,  District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. Baseer Ahmed Khan,  District Development Commissioner, Baramulla, Mr. G.A. Khawja, Commissioner, SMC, Dr. G.N. Qasaba and other officers of Revenue, Wetland departments, besides officers of Assembly Secretariat attended the meeting.

Assurance Committee of LA holds Meeting

Stresses for electrifying uncovered hamlets

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22:-A meeting of the Assurance Committee (AC) of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly was held under the Chairmanship of MLA Mr. Nazir Ahmed Gurezi here today.

            Threadbare discussion was held on various Action Taken Reports of Government Assurances pertaining to the department of PDD and overall power scenario in the State.

            Legislator Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Shah gave his valuable suggestions for the improvement of the power scenario in the State.

            The Committee stressed upon the officers of PDD to redouble their efforts and prioritize those areas and hamlets who have not been covered yet with power connectivity. It also asked them to utilize the funds judiciously.

            Principal Secretary, PDD, Mr. Sudhanshu Pandey briefed the Committee about the performance of the PDD and action taken report of Government Assurances given by the department from time to time on the floor of the House. 

            The Sub Divisional Magistrate, Gurez, Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Hakak informed the Committee that there is need of storage of about 9 lakh liters of high speed diesel (HSD) for smooth running of DG Sets to provide electricity to inhabitants of the Gurez and the process needs to be completed before onset of winter. He also informed that 18 Gen Sets are presently functional in the sub-division providing electricity to about 60 hamlets.

            After satisfactory reply, the Committee dropped few government Assurances. However, the panel stressed for fulfilment  of all the Government Assurances given by the department from time to time on the floor of the House in a time bound manner.

            Among others, Managing Director Power Development Corporation, Srinagar, Mr. Bashrat Ahmed Dhar, Additional Secretary, PDD, Chief Engineer System and Operation Jammu, Chief Engineer M&RE Kashmir and other officers of PDD, PDC besides officers of Assembly Secretariat attended the meeting.

CAMPA hits roadblock; CS defers approval of APOs

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): Amid allegations of bungling in the Compensatory Afforestration Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) Chief Secretary Madhav Lal who is the chairman of the Steering Committee of the CAMPA has deferred the approval of Annual Plans of Operations (APOs) for 2012-13.

Sources told VOS that the Steering Committee has put a condition for the release of new funds under the CAMPA. “The Principal Chief Conservator Forests (PCCF) has been directed to produce the details of afforestation works carried under the CAMPA scheme in 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 before the approval of APOs for this year,” they said.

The Steering Committee which met at Civil Secretariat here on July 31 has asked the PCCF to provide division wise information of works carried in previous year to the CAMPA Cell Office urgently.

“The Steering Committee has also directed that the APOs be revisited to ensure that the cost of fencing component is reduced as far as possible without compromising the future survival of the plantations,” sources said.

A letter No PCCF/CAMPA/757-28 dated 01-08-2012 issued by Project Coordinator CAMPA has asked the Chief Conservators of Kashmir and Jammu that the location map of the areas being proposed for plantation during 2012-13, need to be prepared and therein the locations where plantations have been done in previous two years be depicted on Google Map/ Management Map /GT Sheet.

“The maps would be produced before the Steering Committee who would examine them properly to see whether plantations and fencing has been done in the areas or not,” sources added.

A senior official of Forest department told VOS that the order came in the backdrop of reports of alleged bunglings in CAMPA funds in the previous two years. “The forest officers have shown expenditure on those works which don’t exist on ground. In several areas where the expenditure has been shown on plantation and fencing of forests, the works were never carried,” he said.

“In Pir Panjal, Sindh, Bandipora, Shopian, Lidder and a few other forest divisions of Kashmir payments have been drawn for works which were never carried out,” he added.

While the CAMPA guidelines stresses on creating transparency for the programme and mobilizing citizen support, sources said, most of the forest officers have brazenly violated the norms while executing the works.

“Some of the officers which include Conservator Forests Srinagar Circle, Nisar Darzi, DFO Urban Kashmir, Abid Nazir and few others have not been transferred from their respective postings for the last almost four years while there is a vigilance case pending against the Conservator North Farooq Geelani. But owing to their close proximity with the Forest Minister, nobody dares to touch them,” sources said.

“As the corrupt officers have been given prized postings Forest and its allied departments are on the verge of disaster. While State Forest Corporation is already reeling under severe financial crunch, situation in Soil Conservation and Wild Life is becoming worse by the day,” they said

“While a number of competent officers in the Forest are without postings, officers like Manzoor Ahmad Tak and Abid Nazir have been given two postings. While Tak is holding charge of Joint Director Soil Conservation and Regional Wildlife Warden Kashmir, Abid is holding charge of DFO Urban Forestery and DFO Demarcation despite being a range officer,” sources added. (VOS)

Court extends remand of IED blast case accused

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): A local court here has granted police three months more time to complete the investigation of a case in which alleged militants had planted an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) inside a Maruti car in Chanpora on the city outskirts in May this year.

The court also extended the judicial custody of the accused by 16-days.

Principal and Sessions Judge Srinagar, Kaneez Fatima while disposing off the two applications moved by the police prosecutor ordered: “The investigating agency (police) is granted 90 days more time to complete the investigation of the case in hand and the accused are remanded to judicial custody for 16 more days.”

In the two applications moved before the court the police claimed that the accused persons were the hard core militants and were involved in lethal activities against the state and public.

“The accused persons unlawful activities are spread all over Kashmir and they are involved in a criminal conspiracy to wage a war against the country by threatening the unity, integrity, security and sovereignty of the country,” the police pleaded.

Deputy Superintendent Police (operations) Srinagar, Firoz Yeyha who was present in the court pleaded that police needs some more time to investigate the case. Yehya who heads the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to investigate the case told the court that other active militants involved in the case were yet to be arrested.

“Since the investigation is yet to be completed some more time is required. Unless the time of investigation is not extended, the investigating agency will be unable to unearth the complete conspiracy,” he requested the court.

Pertinently, police had claimed that a major tragedy was averted when it detected and later destroyed an IED planted inside a white color Maruti Car near Chanapora Bridge in May this year. The IED, police had said, was planted in two cylinders, one pressure cooker and one canister. (VOS)

Iranian Islamic leader visits historic Jamia Masjid

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): Renowned leader of Islamic republic of Iran, Akai Agha Mohammad Hassan Duai today visited the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar.
Anjuma-e-Auqaf Jamia Masjid General Secreatry GN Farooqui, Imam Mufti Ghulam Rasool, Mohammad Yaseen, Mushtaq Ahmad Sofi and other members of Auqaf accorded welcome to the visiting religious dignitary.
Hassan Duai discussed the Islamic architecture, culture and other aspects of Islam with the Anjuman-e-Auqaf members. He further told the members that visiting the supreme Islamic centre of Kashmir (Jamia masjid) felt like as if he was in his own country.
While lauding the steadfastness of Kashmiris in religion and brotherhood, he said coming to the Iran of the east (Kashmir) never gives even a bit of feeling to him of a stranger to this land.
President Anujman-e-Moiuni-ul-Islam, Syed Mohammad Sibtain moosvi, and head of Parivan-e-Millat Moulana Sibt-e-Mohammad Shabir Qoumi were also present during his visit.
Meanwhile Anjuman has announced the Friday prayers will be offered at Jamia Masjid at 1:30 pm as scheduled earlier.

Mufti visits residence of Social Activist to offer condolences

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): Peoples Democratic Party patron Mufti Mohammed Sayeed today visited the family of renowned social activist Munawar Shah of Sangam Bjbehara in south Kashmir to condole his death.

Conveying condolences to his family, Mufti said that  Munawar Shah has rendered his services for the betterment of the people particularly for upliftment of down trodden and he would be remembered for long. “His demise has created a void in the society which would be felt for long”, Mufti said.

Expressing sympathies with family Mufti also prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

Mufti was accompanied by District vice president Ab Rahim Rather, Zone President Adv Javaid Ah Sheikh, Minority leader Nanajee Wattal and others.

Mean while PDP has expressed deep shock over the demise of renowed educationist and retired TEO  Gh Mohd Lone of Drass Kargil.

PDP leaders Haji Qasim and Najjaf Ali visited the bereaved family and conveyed their condolences on behalf of the PDP president Mehbooba Mufti and General Secretary Mohd Dilawar Mir.

Expressing sympathies with the family the leaders also prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul.

 Condolence messages pour in for bereaved journos

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): Journalists, politicians and civil society at large have expressed deep shock and regret over the death of Greater Kashmir Editor Javed Ahmad Malik’s infant daughter, who died on the Eid day.

Politicians from both the mainstream and separatist camps have extended condolences to the veteran journalist.

They have also expressed condolences to Riyaz Malik of Kashmir Uzma over the demise of his father in law Gh Mohammad Khan at Tangmarg.

Mohamad Aslam Bhat, Chief Editor, Kashmir News Service has also offered condolences to the journalists. While expressing grief to the journalists, he prayed for eternal peace of the deceased souls.

Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami Mohammad Abdullah Wani and spokesperson Advocate Zahid Ali have also expressed grief over the demise of relatives of the journalists. (VOS)

J&K Bank lifts Best Banker Awards

Survey acclaims skillful leadership of Chariman

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): J&K Bank’s continued focus on all areas of banking during the past two years has won the bank four national awards - “The Sunday Standard FINWIZ-2012 Best Bankers’ Awards”.

The Bank was awarded ‘Best Banker in Financial Inclusion and Customer Friendliness’ and declared runner up for ‘Best Banker in Priority Sector Growth and Agricultural Credit’.

The awards were received on behalf of the Chairman & CEO, Mushtaq Ahmad by the President and Zonal Head, Abdul Hamid Banday. The union minister for Commerce & Industry, Anand Sharma gave away the awards at an impressive function held in Delhi on August 20, 2012. C Rangarajan Chairman Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council was also present on the occasion.

The Sunday Standard, which is a part of the Chennai-based ‘The New Indian Express Group’, had engaged Indicus Analytics, India’s premier economic research agency, to conduct a stringent survey and find out India’s best bankers.

Notably, the CEOs of all 78 Scheduled Commercial Banks operating in India were considered for the rating. The survey has rated Chairman and CEO Mushtaq Ahmad as top ranked CEO for being ‘accomplished in all aspects of banking’.  The survey has highlighted his skillfull leadership qualities by mentioning the bank’s all round and consistent growth in its operations under his dynamic leadership. Since his taking over, the bank’s business turnover has increased by over Rs.24000 crore, going from Rs.62,000 crore in September 2010 to Rs.86,424 crore in March 2012. The bank posted an all time high profit of Rs.803 crore for the financial year ended March 31, 2012.

In succinct, the surveyors have hailed the J&K Bank’s contribution in facilitating the workings of the economy and at the same contributing to its growth and dynamic by nurturing entrepreneurs and innovation. 

It is worth mentioning that the surveyors who stringently surveyed all 78 scheduled commercial banks operating in India used quantitative and qualitative indicators as well as published data to arrive at the results. They also did primary surveys to ensure that there were no oversights or information gaps. 

The analysis was meant to capture the improvements that have occurred over the last year for which data is available for quantitative parameters, while the qualitative indicators were captured from a confidential primary survey of senior employees of the banks conducted in March and April 2012.

Police Solves 13 cases of militancy in city

IGP Kashmir terms it big achievement 

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): The Jammu and Kashmir Police claim to have busted a module of Kashmir Islamic Movement, a part of Hizbul Mujahideen, involved in a number of attacks including the attack on Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development, Police officers and grenade attacks on Civil Secretariat and Tatoo ground.

“These attacks were carried from January 2011 to July 2012 over a period of 18 months”, said IGP, Kashmir S.M Sahai at a press conference here the other day.

Giving details he said, Srinagar Police has successfully investigated attack on SHO Batamaloo, killing of  Inspector Shabir Ahmad of Police Telecommunication, Killing of ASI Sukhpal Singh,  attack on NC Block President, attack on Hon’ble Minister Ali Mohd Sagar, killing of  NC Worker at Batamaloo, attack on CRPF at  Rainawari through automatic weapons, UBGL attacks at Civil Secretariat and Tatoo Ground, attack on Peer Jalaludin , killing of  Retired Dy.Sp Abdul Hamid Bhat- by busting a module of “Kashmir Islamic Movement” by arresting  two militants namely Abdul Rashid Shigan alias Molvi alias Omer Mukhtar son of Abdul Ahad Shigan resident of Lachaman pora Batamallo and Imitiyaz Ahmad Gojri alias Amir son of Late Ghulam Qadir  resident of Nowakadal  Teng pora Srinagar.

“Abdul Rashid Shigan was previously selected as a trainee constable and was discharged from Police department, while undergoing basic training following his involvement in militant activities. He has also remained detained under PSA. He later on managed to get his reinstate orders from court”, Sahai said.

He further stated that on April 1, 2011 an attack was carried on SHO Batamaloo when he was traveling in his private vehicle. He was seriously injured, 29-06-2011 Inspector Shabir Ahmad of Police Telecomm was fired upon and injured at Iqbalabad Bemina at his residence, who later on succumbed to his injuries, 20-04-2012, ASI Sukhpal Singh of Police Post Bagiyas was fired upon and critically injured while on duty near Darishkadal Chattabal, who later succumbed to his injuries, 02-12-2011 NC Block President Ghulam Mohd Lone was fired and injured at Safakadal, 11-12-2011 attack on Minister for Rural Development & Parlimentary affairs, Ali Mohammad Sagar, was carried out in which one police man died in the incident, 24-12-2011 NC Activist Bashir Ahmad was fired upon and killed near Dhobi Mohalla Batamaloo, 17-03-2012 Peer Jalaludin alias Jal Sahab of Sheikh Dawood khadmat Khalak Trust  was short and injured near his house,30-05-2012 vehicle of 32 Bn. CRPF caring troops was fired upon near Victory  crossing Rainawari  resulting in the injuries to 7 CRPF  personnel, 28-06- 2012 four Rifle grenades were fired towards tattoo ground (115bn  TA), 18-07-2012,a rifle was fired on civil Secretariat and 10 08-2012,one retired DYSP Abdul Hameed Bhat was fired and killed in near Tangpoara, Batamaloo.

The following arms/ammunition were recovered from his residence and hideouts at Batamaloo, which includes one coil electric -wire, one mine, two radio sets kenwood , eleven  Batteries, one  radio set Frequency setter, four Chinese pistols, six pistol magazines, 100 rounds of pistol ammunition, five grenades, two knifes ( Khokri), thirteen UBGL shells, one Kiran kove rifle, two AK 47 rifles, 16 AK 47 magazines, large quantity of AK ammunition, two UBGL thrower, two kit for cleaning, two pouches, one fire extinguisher, three bags, one water bottle, one first aid kit, one ladies hair wig, two scooter helmets, four grenade pins, one IED and eleven detonators.

JKLF leaders condemn house arrest of Malik on Eid day

Malik, Mirwaiz expresse sorrow over the demise of Malik’s daughter Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): JKLF chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik has expressed grief and sorrow over the sad demise of infant daughter of renowned journalist Javed Malik of Greater Kashmir.

Yasin Malik and other JKLF leaders visited Javed Malik’s house and expressed heartfelt sympathies with him and the bereaved family .Yasin Malik while praying for the little angel also prayed for the Patience of the bereaved family.

Meanwhile JKLF strongly condemned the house arrest of Chairman Yasin Malik on Eid day, said a statement issued by JKLF.

JKLF leaders while addressing various Eid congregations condemned the house arrest of Yasin sahib and various other pro-freedom leaders termed this police action as un-democratic and straight interference in religion and asked world conscience to take a strong note of these kinds of condemnable acts of state terrorism. JKLF Leaders Master Mohammad Afzal addressed people at Trehgam Kupwara, Siraj ud Din Mir Dawood at Tengmarg, Ghulam Nabi Kashmiri at kulgam, Bashir Ahmad Rather at Ganderbal, Abdul Rashid Mugloo at Haigam sopore and Professor Javed addressed people at Sonawari.  It is worth to mention that Yasin sahib was scheduled to perform Eid prayers at TRC grounds Srinagar and he was scheduled to address a public gathering there, the statement added.

Meanwhile, Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, while expressing shock over the loss to the journalists, prayed for the departed souls. He also prayed to almighty for bestowing the bereaved patience to bear with the loss.

PCC delegation calls on PM, Sonia

Discuss issues of refugees, displaced people

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): A high level delegation of Jammu and Pradesh Congress Committee comprising of MPs, Ministers and Senior leaders led by JKPCC President Prof. Saifuddin Soz-MP today met the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Congress President Sonia Gandhi and Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde at New Delhi today and discussed various issues pertaining to the refugees of 1947 from West Pakistan and displaced persons of 1947, 1965 and 1971 from POK.

The delegation comprised Members of Lok Sabha Madan Lal Sharma and Ch. Lal Singh, Minister for Revenue, Relief & Rehabilitation Raman Bhalla, Minister for Health, Horticulture and Floriculture   Sham Lal Sharma, Minister for Medical & Technical Education and YSS R.S. Chib, PCC General Secretary & Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma-MLC and former Minister S. Manjit Singh, said a press statement issued by the  state congress.

The delegation submitted a memorandum and briefed the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde  about the long pending demands and issues of refugees of 1947 from West Pakistan and displaced persons of 1947 from POK, besides 1965 & 1971 who have settled in this part of Jammu and Kashmir especially in various districts of Jammu region.

They briefed the leaders about the various genuine demands of different categories of these refugees and displaced persons which have remained unresolved so far and urged for constitution of a high powered committee of the central government to examine various issues and demands of these sections of society including one time settlement including special concessions in the field of education and recruitment for their wards and their other issues pertaining to the central government.

The delegation also discussed the issues of the border migrants and those residing near Line of Control (LOC) for their relief and alternate sites for their accommodation in safer zones in their respective areas.

Later, spokesman of the delegation disclosed that the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde gave a patient hearing and were quite considerate to the issues raised by the delegation including the suggestion for  constitution of a high level committee to examine the pending issues of these sections and work out a formula for their one time settlement.

02 die, 28 injured in road mishap

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): Two persons died while 28 others were injured in different road accidents across the valley.

A Motorcycle bearing Chassis Number MD625NF1010 skidded and fell from Kil Kadal, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Chadoora today, resulting in on spot death of motorcyclist Masidue age 35 years son of Islam resident of Roosan Gunj, Bengal at present, Chadoora. A pillion Abdul Majid Dar age 38 years son of Sanaullah resident of Budgam, Chadoora was injured in the incident. The injured was shifted to Hospital for treatment and body of the deceased is laying in Police Station Chadoora for further disposal. Police Chadoora has registered a case in this regard.

A motorcycle bearing registration number Jk13B/8761 skidded off the road near Muchpuna, Pulwama, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Pulwama, resulting in injuries to the motorcyclist and a pillion. Both the injured were shifted to Hospital for treatment where the pillion Abdul Razaq son of Asadullah resident of Mughama succumbed to his injuries. Pulwama Police has registered a case in this regard.

A Tata 407 vehicle bearing registration number JK01L/5315 collided with another Tata 407 bearing registration number JK01K/7289 at Barzulla Bridge, falling under the jurisdiction of Police Station Sadder, Srinagar, resulting in injuries to 04 passenger. All the injured were shifted to Hospital for treatment. Police Sadder has registered a case in this regard.

A Maruti Car bearing registration number JK13A/2412 hit a Motorcycle bearing registration number JK01H/9747 near DAV School, Jawahir Nagar in the jurisdiction of Police Station Rajbagh, Srinagar, resulting in injuries to the motorcyclist Umar Mushtaq Malik resident of Mehjoor Nagar and pillion Mukhtar Ahmad Gojar son of Sanullah resident of Iram Colony, Budshah Nagar. Both the injured were shifted to Hospital for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard.  

A motorcycle bearing registration number JK13A/6845 hit and injured a girl, Khushboo Jan age seven years daughter of Mushtaq Ahmad Margay resident of Chek Watoo at Cheek-i-Watoo, in the jurisdiction of police station D.H Pora, Kulgam. The injured girl was shifted to Hospital for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard.

A Truck bearing registration number JK03b/3642 hit a Motorcycle bearing registration number Jk22/3505 at Kanjikula, falling under the jurisdiction of Police Station Yaripora, Kulgam, resulting in injuries to motorcyclist Abdul Saboor son of Ghulam Muhammad resident of Hillan Shopian and a pillion Sabreena daughter of Ghulam Hassan resident of Hangul Bush. Both the injured were shifted to Hospital for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard.

A Maruti Car bearing registration number JK18/2051 had a collision with a motorcycle bearing registration number JK13A/6845, falling in the jurisdiction of Police Station D.H Pora, Kulgam, resulting in injuries to the drivers of both the Maruti and Motorcycle. Both the injured were shifted to Hospital for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard. 

A motorcycle bearing registration number JK04A/8654 skidded off the road at Iqbal Colony Tangmarg, falling under the jurisdiction of police station Tangmarg, Baramulla, resulting in injuries to motorcyclist Fayaz Ahmad Dar resident of Nasalpora, Budgam and his wife Tasleema Begum. Both the injured were shifted to Hospital for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard.

A Tavera bearing registration number JK01Q/8176 collided with a Tata Mobile bearing registration number JK14B/4258 at Ferozpora, Tangmarg, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Tangmarg, Baramulla, resulting in injuries to three persons. All the injured were shifted to hospital for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard.

A motorcycle bearing registration number Jk04B/6912 hit and injured a pedestrian Sara Begum age 45 years son of Peth Zonigam near Utlipora, falling under the jurisdiction of Police Station Beerwah, Budgam. The injured was shifted to Hospital for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard.

A Motorcycle bearing registration number Jk03/4553 collided with Ford Figo Car bearing registration number JK01P/6086 near Sangam, falling under the jurisdiction of Police Station Bijbehara, Anantnag, resulting in injuries to Motorcyclist and a pillion. Both of them have been shifted to hospital for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard.

An Indica Car hit and injured a pedestrian Showkat Ali Gojri age 20 years son of Kaleem-u-Din Gojri resident of Rajouri near Bonara Shrine, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Pulwama. The injured was shifted to hospital for treatment. Pulwama Police has registered a case in this regard.

A Maruti Car bearing registration number JK05B/0387 turned turtle near SDA Complex, Bemina in the jurisdiction of Police Station Bemina, Srinagar, resulting in injuries to five persons boarded in the car. All the injured were shifted to JVC, Srinagar for treatment. Bemina Police has registered a case in this regard.

A Tavera vehicle bearing registration number JK05B/2278 and a Wagan-R JK01B/8586 collided near Zig Mode, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Gulmarg, Baramulla, resulting in injuries to a passenger Pawan Singh son of Jaswanth Singh resident of Darangund. The injured was shifted to Hospital for treatment. Gulmarg Police has registered a case in this regard.

Peace in sub continent possible with Kashmir solution: Bhat

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): APHC leader and Chairman of Jammu and Kashmir Salvation Movement, Zaffar Akbar Bhat has said that permanent peace in South Asia and cordial relations between Pakistan and India could not be established without settling the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the Kashmiris’ aspirations

Zaffar Akbar Bhat addressing a public meeting in Beerwah area said that the Indian authorities were resorting to large-scale arrests in Kashmir, but such tactics could not suppress the Kashmiris’ resolve to continue their liberation struggle. He said that the permanent peace in South Asia and cordial relations between Pakistan and India could not be established without settling the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the Kashmiris’ aspirations.

The unresolved Kashmir is a main reason of tension in South Asia and it should be resolved without any further delay in accordance with the Kashmiris’ aspirations, he added.

He said that the armed forces under the black laws were committing human rights violations in Jammu and Kashmir. He said that revocation of black laws — Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), Disturbed Areas Act (DAA) and Public Safety Act (PSA) — could provide relief to the people till final settlement of the Kashmir dispute.

He urged the two neighboring countries to keep, the aspirations of the people of Kashmir for accomplishing which they have been rendering sacrifices for the last 66 year, in view while maintaining mutual friendly diplomatic and trade relations. The APHC leader said that the solution to the Kashmir dispute was of paramount importance for the creation of a trust-building environment.

APHC leader expressed grief and sorrow over the death of relatives of the Kashmiri journalists Javid Ahmad Malik and Riyaz Ahmad and prayed Allah Almighty to grant courage to the bereaved families to bear the loss

Inqilabi for eco-friendly religious activities

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): Azam Inqilabi, patron J&K Mahaz-e-Azadi, while condemning the repressive fascist policy of Delhi liege lords in a statement, said, “We were awaiting the release of detained leaders like Dr. Qasim, Mushtaq-ul-Islam, Masarat Aalam and others on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-fitr. Alas! The tyrannical and atrocious rulers failed in providing respite and reprieve to these jail birds.

On the contrary they placed the resistance leaders like Syed Ali Geelani, Yaseen Malik, Shabir Ahmad Shah and other senior leaders under house arrest.

“What is the rationale for suggesting the construction of roads and buildings in the mountain notches of Pahalgam and Sonamarg which lead to Amarnath cave? Don’t you understand that the area is highly eco-sensitive? Do you want to clear-cut thousands and lakhs of trees which assuredly guarantee the safety of the glaciers which embellish the area at a height of ten or twelve thousand feet provide water to the millions of people of Kashmir valley through the rivers like Leddar and Jhelum?”, he asked.

“Can you visualize the dimensions of the political backlash and whiplash which will follow once you embark on the hazardous plan to facilitate the extinction of these precious glaciers through your politicized yatra programme? So hold back for introspection. Don’t create a situation here where pony owners will be spearheading the revolt”, he said in a statement.

This will be state of complete trance, introversion and intuitive engrossment and absorption− the cherished objective of yatra indeed. People believing in mystic way of life visit the shrine of a Sufi saint to achieve the same objective of inward bliss, ecstasy and rapture, he added,

“God willing, Kashmir will soon achieve the objective of independence so that people here, irrespective of caste or creed, live a peaceful life free of coercion, exploitation, fear and desecration.”, he said in a statement.

Body of 15 yr old fished out at Baramulla

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): Body of 15 year old, Abid Riyaz Janwari S/o Riyaz Ahmad Janwari of Sofi Hamam Sopore was today fished out of the river Jehlum at Baramulla with the help of police and navy officials, sources told VOS.

The boy had gone to Baramulla on Eid day went and drowned in the river while taking a bath near the foot bridge. His body was fished out on the third day today, the sources added.

Relatives of the boy told VOS, the mourning is being held at Wani Mohalla Pattan for three days. There will be no Rasm-e-chaharum, they informed relatives and friends. (VOS)

SMC Health Officer Seals shop selling expired items

Srinagar, Aug 22 (VOS): Continuing its campaign against stale, substandard and expired food items, the Health Officer of SMC Dr Rubeena Shaheen along with her team raided bakeries and other shops at Buchpora on the Sirnagar outskirts.

The officer recovered unusable and expired custard powder during the raids, sources told VOS adding the shop was sealed on the spot by the authorities. The team also lifted samples from the spot which were later sent for analysis to laboratory.

Riyaz Choudhari, the food safety officer of the SMC was also actively involved in the raids.

Sub standard items have been recovered from the shop Bilal Ahmad Sofi S/o Noor Mohammad Sofi  on specific complaints were received against him, said an official accompanying the team.

Meanwhile, sources in the department expressed surprise that instead of being encouraged, the food safety officials are being targeted by the authorities at SMC. “Even their salaries for last one month have not been released”, they said adding it was beyond their understanding as to why they are being penalized when they should have been rewarded. (VOS)

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