SRINAGAR,
WEDNESDAY, 08 ZUL QAADAH 1433 AH ; 26 SEPTEMBER 2012
Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com
Omar
approves Ring Roads for Srinagar, Jammu
NHAI to
construct road projects involving Rs. 3000 cr.
SRINAGAR,
SEPTEMBER 25 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Tuesday gave nod to the
construction of Srinagar and Jammu Ring Roads to decongest traffic and provide
alternate communication for commuters taking care up to the year 2042.
Approving
the prestigious and most required duo projects involving an expenditure of abut
Rs. 3000 crores at a meeting of high level officers of National Highway
Authority of India (NHAI) and Jammu and Kashmir State R&B Department here,
the Chief Minister directed the NHAI executing agency for the projects to
formulate the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and put up the proposals to the
R&B Department for finalization.
The
proposed Ring Road project for Srinagar will start at Galander and meet the
National at Narbal Junction in its Phase-I. The road will be 4-lane with 6-lane
future projection. Under the Phase-II of the project, a two-way road will start
at Narbal and meet the National Highway in Ganderbal.
The
project is likely to cost Rs. 1195 crores in Phase-I and Rs. 448 crores in the
Phase-II. The road length in the Phase-I will be 34.72 kilometers and in the
Phase-II, 27.2 kilometers. There will be a Toll Plaza at Narbal Junction. In
the proposed 4-lane road project from Galander to Narbal there will be 155
culverts, two road-over bridges, two flyovers, five major junctions, 17 minor
junctions and one Toll Plaza. The two-lane road from Narbal to Ganderbal will
have 135 culverts, 5 major junctions and 9 minor junctions.
The
Chief Minister said that the projects should keep room for widening from
4-lanes to 6-lanes and from 2-lanes to 4-lanes to cater to futuristic needs.
The
Jammu 4-lane Ring Road involving an expenditure of Rs. 1355 crores will have
with one Toll Plaza in each of the homogenous sections. It will start near
Vijaypur (Raipur) and meet the National Highway at Akhnoor where from it will
go up to Nagrota Bye-Pass. The road project will be about 60 kilometers in
length. It will have 4 major bridges in Package-I and 4 similar bridges in
package-II while the number of minor bridges in Package-I will be 5 and 4 in
Package-II. The number of culverts in Package-I will be 215 and in Package-II
102. There will be two flyovers in each package while as two overhead bridges will
be constructed in the Package-II.
Under
the Package-I the road length from Raipur to Akhnoor will be 43 kilometers and
in Package-II it will be 16.9 kilometers.
The
Chief Minister said that creation of better communication facility in the
cities, towns and rural areas has been focused in the development policy by his
government and all avenues are being explored to upgrade road communication
facilities for better traffic management and commuting facilities to the people
besides generating economic activities.
Omar
Abdullah said that up to the mark ring roads for the duo cities of Srinagar and
Jammu are need of the hour and to cater to the futuristic requirements of the
two capitals growing on faster pace.
The
Project Director NHAI in a PowerPoint presentation explained the salient
features of the proposed road projects and highlighted the main features of the
projects.
Governor expresses grief
over loss of life in Kupwara road accident
SRINAGAR,
SEPTEMBER 25 – Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, has expressed grief over the loss of
human lives in a road accident in Tangdar area of Kupwara district.
In a
message, the Governor conveyed his sympathy to the bereaved families and prayed
for eternal peace to the departed souls. He also prayed for the speedy recovery
of all those injured in this tragic accident.
Raj Bhavan
spokesman said that the Governor has urged the Director General of Police to
urgently review the obtaining traffic regulations, particularly regarding the
movement of passenger carriers and buses and issue immediate directions for the
ground staff to effectively ensure against overloading, which is reportedly
among the frequent causes for fatal accidents.
Omar
highlights role of IMPARD in capacity building process
SRINAGAR,
SEPTEMBER 25 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Tuesday highlighted the role of
Institute of Management, Public Administration and Rural Development (IMPARD)
in capacity building process of government functionaries adding that the
institution has to accomplish stupendous responsibility of imparting training
to panchayat members enabling them to function with capacity in the newly
established Panchayat Raj system in the State.
“You
should provide dedicated faculty for training of panchayat members”, he told
IMPARD emphasizing the need for preparedness of the institution to undertake
capacity building programme for the representatives of urban local bodies for
which elections are being held this year.
The
Chief Minister was chairing 11th meeting of Executive Council
of Jammu and Kashmir IMPARD here this afternoon. He said that IMPARD should
strengthen its faculties and formulate comprehensive training programmes for
various government functionaries and public representatives.
The
meeting was attended by Chief Secretary, Madhav Lal, Principal Secretary
Finance, M. I. Khandey, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas,
Director General IMPARD, Pawan Kotwal, Administrative Secretaries of Rural
Development and General Administration Departments, Managing Director, JKPCC
and other senior officers.
Besides
confirming minutes of the 10th Executive Council meeting, the
Executive Council in today’s meeting also noted the action taken in the last
Council meeting.
Matters
relating to budget estimates, training programmes, delegation of financial
powers, construction of various facilities and other related issues were
discussed in the meeting in detail.
In
a PowerPoint presentation, Director General IMPARD explained the agenda points
and presented resume of the activities of IMPARD. He gave details of the
training programmes conducted by IMPARD during the last three years. He also
apprised the Council of the current year’s training programmes and said that
measures have been taken to strengthen various faculties and upgrade the
quality of trainings.
It
was stated in the meeting that during 2009-10 as many as 136 training
programmes were conducted by IMPARD while in 2010-11 over 160 such programmes
were conducted. During the year 2011-12 as many as 144 training programmes have
been conducted by the institution imparting training to over 4700 participants.
It was further stated that IMPARD has recently started training programme for a
fresh batch of 117 junior KAS officers appointed recently.
The
Director General IMPARD also presented resume of the infrastructural facilities
being created at the Campuses of IMPARD at Srinagar and Jammu.
CM
expresses grief over Tangdar road accident
SRINAGAR,
SEPTEMBER 25 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah has expressed grief over the loss
of human lives in a tragic road accident in Tangdar area.
In
a condolence message to the bereaved families, the Chief Minister has shown
sympathy with them. He prayed for peace to the departed souls and early
recovery of the injured.
The
Chief Minister also directed the District Administration and other concerned to
provide best possible medicare to the injured.
Introduce
mechanization in farm practices for dynamism, diversity in agriculture: Mir
asks farmers
MUJGUND
(SRINAGAR), SEPTEMBER 25: To bring back dynamism and diversity in agriculture
sector, Minister for Agriculture, Mr Ghulam Hassan Mir Tuesday urged upon the
farmers to introduce mechanization in farm practices to make it more profitable.
The
Minister said this while inaugurating the one-day Kissan Mela cum Exhibition
here this morning.
Mr Mir
said that the ground reality of the agriculture sector has changed across the
globe adding that introduction of technology and mechanization in farm and its
allied sectors have changed the life standards of the farming community. He
questioned the J&K farmers that why they are lagging behind in such
innovations when the present coalition government has launched various
ambitious schemes to facilitate the farmers.
Mr.
Mir said that the thrust of agriculture department is to bring profitability in
the sector and its allied activities for
which steps
have already been taken to
introduce latest
agri- techniques , hybrid seeds and mechanization for producing quality
production. He said introduction of mechanization is the need of the hour for enhancing its quality production and asked farmers to bring
latest machineries for which the government
is providing the subsidy. He said for the marginal farmers, the
department has
introduced a scheme under which agri- business centers are being setup at block
level where
agriculture machinery is available on rent basis.
To end
the middleman ship in agri –business, the Minister said that the main thrust of
our government is to provide Kissan Credit Card facility to them so that easy
credit facility so that it would help them in introducing the latest agri-
techniques. He said government has already issued instructions to banks to
issue these cards without any delay.
Mr Mir
stressed upon the landless people to opt other agriculture activities for
strengthening the economy and added that sericulture, apiculture etc. have huge
job potential. He said that government is also providing incentives in these
sectors and asked youth to come forward and opt it as profitable activity.
Earlier,
the Minister went round various stalls setup by agriculture, floriculture,
Command Area Development, Sericulture, J&K AGRO Industries and other
departments.
Minister
of State for Agriculture, Mr Javid Ahmad Dar while speaking on the occasion
said that the main objective of holding these melas is to bring the lab to
field. He said in these exhibitions, the SKUAST with the help of progressive
farmers showcases the technological innovations utilized in agri and its
allied sectors so that common farmers are benefited.
Mr. Javid
said that in
present dispensation thrust has been given to implement the centrally and state
sponsored schemes so that common farmers are benefited. He said that now
machinery melas are being held at panchayat level to provide the agriculture implements to farmers at their
doorstep.
MLA
Batmaloo, Mr Irfan Shah demanded vegetable mandi for the Mujgund area and
maximum poly green houses for the vegetable farmers of the area.
Director
Agriculture, Kashmir, Dr Farooq Ahmad Lone in his welcome address briefed the farmers about different schemes of the agriculture
department.
DC Kulgam
inspects dev projects in Qaimoh
KULGAM, SEPTEMBER 25: District Development Commissioner, Kulgam,
Mr. Jahangir Mir today visited Qaimoh block to take stock of development
projects taken up under various schemes in different sectors.
During his whirlwind tour, the Deputy Commissioner checked pace of
execution and quality parameters of the upcoming infrastructure projects across
the block. He also removed bottlenecks on- the- spot that were coming in the
way of smooth execution of few development works in consultation with all the
stakeholders.
The major projects he inspected included Wanpora Lift Irrigation
scheme, Wanpora- Shamsipora bridge, Redwani-Babapora road, Sub-district
hospital Qaimoh, Government Higher Secondary School, etc.
Mr Jahangir asked the officers to pace up the execution and
ensure timeline completion of the projects. He reminded them about the fast
approaching winter, adding the time left needs to be optimally utilized for
faster development and efficient utilization of resources. He directed for
using quality material for longer durability of the assets created.
Several deputations also called on the Deputy Commissioner during
his day long tour, projecting problems regarding road connectivity, drinking
water and irrigation. He gave on spot directions to the heads of sectoral
officers for redress of their grievances.
The Deputy Commissioner said that these kinds of tours will be
undertaken in every block to boost development and monitor execution of
flagship programmes on the ground. The purpose, he said is to ensure completion
of the development works on time and take administration to the doorsteps of
the people.
Besides Additional District Development Commissioner, ACR,
Executive Engineers of R&B, Irrigation and Flood Control, PHE, CPO and
other officers accompanied him during the tour.
School timings rescheduled
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 25: According to Director
School Education, Srinagar, the School timings both in Government as well as
recognised Private Schools within the municipal limits of Srinagar city shall
be from 9 am to 3 pm and outside Srinagar Municipal limits shall be from 10 am
to 4 pm from October 01, 2012.
All concerned institutions have been directed to follow strictly the new school
timings.
9th batch of Hajj pilgrims leave for Madina
SRINAGAR,
SEPTEMBER 25: The 9th batch of 540 Hajj pilgrims comprising of 292 male and
248 female pilgrims including an infant left for Madina
Munawara this morning.
Including the Hajj pilgrims of the 9th batch, 2700 Hajj pilgrims comprising of 1561 male and 1139
female besides two infant pilgrims have left for Madina from Srinagar
International Airport till date.
On the occasion, officers from State Hajj Committee, Airport Authority and
District Administration Budgam were present to see off the Hajj pilgrims.
Div Comm
review’s arrangements for ensuing Legislative Assembly Session
Stresses
for coordination, smooth conduct
SRINAGAR,
September 25: To ensure
smooth and hassle free conduct of forth coming Assembly Session, Divisional
Commissioner, Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Samoon convened divisional officers meeting
here today.
Among others Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Dr. G. N. Qasba,
Vice Chairman, Srinagar Development Authority, Mr. Farooq Renzu Shah,
Joint Director, Fire and Emergency Services besides Senior Officers of
Police and Civil Administration participated in the meeting.
Threadbare discussions were held regarding the arrangements like parking of
Vehicles, un-interrupted power supply, smooth plying of traffic, issuance of
security passes, coverage of the forthcoming session through print and
electronic media.
Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir stressed for close coordination among
different Departments for smooth conduct of ensuing Assembly Session commencing
from October Ist,2011.
It was given out in the meeting that arrangements related connectivity and
mobility have already been put in place. Besides arrangements related to health
care, availability of ambulances and fire tenders shall be made available.
Medical
aid, familiarization programme at Sangarmall
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 25: Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) and Alkhuddam Hajj and
Umrah Services are jointly organizing a familiarisation programme on the use of
elevators for such prospective Hajj pilgrims who are not well-versed with its
use.
The familiarization programme is being organised at Sangarmall City Centre, MA
Road, Srinagar, where state-of-the-art elevators are already installed. The
prospective pilgrims can come to Sangarmall City Centre alongwith Ahram which
can be used during the proposed training session. The training session would be
conducted on September 26, 2012 from 10 am to 4 pm.
A panel of noted super-specialist doctors would also be holding an interactive
session with the general public at the make-shift auditorium of the Sangarmall
City Centre on the same day from 4 pm to 6 pm, aimed at creating awareness
about various health issues. However, there will be no consultation by the
doctors.
The super-specialist doctors who would be available at the interactive session
include, Dr. Bilal (DM) Gastroenterologist, Dr Shahid (DM) Cardiologist, Dr
lrshad, Orthopedic Surgeon and Dr Riyaz (DM)-Endocrinology.
Anyone to get benefited from the advice of doctors can join the
interactive session.
Div Com
convenes HLC and reviews Development activities
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 25: Divisional
Commissioner Kashmir Dr Asgar Hassan Samoon convened High Level Committee (HLC)
meeting for acquisition of land for road widening of KZP road. Later, in
another meeting Div Com Kashmir reviewed various developmental activities being
carried out in Srinagar. The meetings were attended by Deputy Commissioner,
Srinagar, Baseer Ahmed Khan, Chief Engineer R&B Kashmir, Commissioner SMC
Srinagar, Dr. G.N Qasba, Executive Director NBCC, Superintending Engineers of
R&B, UEED, EM&RE and other senior officers.
CM
meets Governor
SRINAGAR,
SEPTEMBER 25 - Mr. Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, met Mr. N. N. Vohra,
Governor, at Raj Bhavan here this evening.
In
their hour and a half long meeting, the Governor and the Chief Minister
discussed issues relating to internal and external security, implementation of
development programmes, strengthening the functioning of Panchayats, elections
to Panchayat Samitis and Urban Local Bodies and strengthening the various
Commissions which act as the watchdogs of democracy, governance and
accountability.
Sgr
Master Plan review would ensure concept of greater cities: Dy CM
Takes
reviews at a high level meeting
SRINAGAR SEPTEMBER 25: While reviewing the exercise being
conducted by Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) for presenting new concept
about existing master plan 2000-2021, the Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Tara Chand
has said that all stake holders, civil society and concerned public
representatives would be involved to ensure inclusion of all concepts in order
to make both Srinagar and Jammu greater cities.
Principal Secretary, Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Suresh
Kumar, Vice Chairman, Srinagar Development Authority Khawaja Farooq Renzushah,
DG, Fire and Emergency Service, Mr. G.M. Bhat, VC, LAWADA, Mr. Ifran Yasin,
Commissioner, SMC, Dr. G.N. Qasba, M.D, J&K Housing Board, Mr. Kiran
Wattal besides
HODs and senior officers of R&B, PHE, ERA were present on the occasion.
Mr. Tara
Chand asked the officer to coordinate with each other and share their
experiences and expertise so that a foresighted document is prepared. He asked
the concerned consultancy to speed up the process and ensure that MP document
is prepared early.
Deputy
Chief Minister said that with growing urbanization, it has become necessary to revisit the 2000-2001 MP. He asked the officers to
keep in account the needs of the people beyond 2021 and come-up with their
recommendation in this regard.
The Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) has recently, with the
help of expert consultancy, initiated reviewing of Master Plan (MP) in order to
prepare better and planned development of Srinagar city. After serious
exercise, the discrepancy existing on the ground viz-a-viz Master Plan have
been identified.
The exercise has also found discrepancy in various parts of
Srinagar where built up structures are existing contrary to land use and
concept shall be presented soon to synchronize master plan with good realities.
It also showed that Srinagar is 4th city in
growing urbanization in the country.
The report reveals that Srinagar has rich historical background
and has been considered one of the ideal tourist spots. The present exercise
would ensure identifying and development of maximum ideal spots for creation of
tourist infrastructure so that the city is able to cater to accommodation needs
of increasing flow of tourists.
The representative of SAI Engineering Pvt Ltd gave a power point
presentation about the project.
Provisions
of 73rd amendment
already incorporated in State Act: Sagar
Asks
officers to speed up work on Dastigeer Sahab Shrine, visits Hazratbal
SRINAGAR,
SEPTEMBER 25:- Reiterating that the government has already incorporated the
spirit and the thrust of 73rd amendment
of Indian Constitution, the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Law
Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that the
major recommendations and pre- requisites of it have already been incorporated
in the Panchayati Raj Act of the J&K State.
The
Minister was interacting with mediapersons here today.
Reacting
to the issue of providing security to the Panchayati Raj representatives, the
Minister said that the Chief Minister has already issued instructions to the
security agencies about the same so that they would effectively monitor it. He
said that the culprits involved in the recent killings of some panches and
Sarpanches would be identified very soon and necessary action would be
initiated against them.
Referring
to the holding of elections to the block development councils, the Minister
said that the notification would be issued in the first week of October and the
process would be completed within November. “By putting in place the third tier
of the Panchayati Raj system we would be ensuring that the effective
decentralization of powers is ensured”, he said and maintained that the
government is sincere in ensuring the democratic decentralization of powers and
in this regard the panches and sarpanches have already been empowered with the
funds, functions and functionaries of 14 vital departments transferred to
Panchayats.
The
Minister earlier convened a high level meeting to oversee the pace of work
being done on the revered shrine of Hazrat Peer Dastigeer Sahab (RA). It was
attended by the Managing Director JKPCC, Chief Engineer R&B, Convenor
INTACH, representatives of the Wakaf Board and other senior officers.
Mr. Sagar
directed the officers to ensure that the work is done on war footing so that
the commitment made by the Chief Minister is implemented fully. He said that
the people of every section of the society are deeply attached to it and care should be taken to see it that it is completed within
the stipulated time.
The
Minister also asked them to work in close synergy with each other so that
bottlenecks if any are removed at an earliest. He said that care should be
taken that the shrine is reconstructed on the older pattern and in this regard
the work should be executed in consonance with the technical advice given by
INTACH.
Mr. Sagar
also visited Dargah Hazratbal Shrine and took stock of the damages caused to
it. He was accompanied by District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, and
other senior officers.
While
interacting with the people, the Minister assured them that proper renovation
of the Shrine would be undertaken. He said the sentiments of the people of the
State are attached with the Shrine and the government would take every possible
step to enhance the dignity and respect of the Shrine within the shortest
possible time.
Gul
visits Hazratbal Shrine
SRINAGAR,
SEPTEMBER 25:- On the instructions of Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah, Advisor
to Chief Minister Mr. Mubarak Gul visited Dargah Hazratbal Shrine and took
stock of the damage caused to it.
On the
occasion he interacted with the people and assured them proper renovation of
the Shrine would be undertaken. He said the sentiments of whole society are
attached to the Shrine and government particularly Chief Minister Mr. Omar
Abdullah would take every possible step to enhance the dignity and respect of
the Shrine.
Water
Testing Kits to be provided to Panchayats, ASHA workers: Taj
Lays
foundation of Rs6.94 cr Kargil WSS
KARGIL,
SEPTEMBER 25:- Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi
ud Din today asked Panchayats to ensure the preservation and cleanliness of
water sources and bodies in villages. He said water testing kits would be
provided to all Sarpanchs and ASHA workers to ensure the standardization of
water quality being provided to people.
Inaugurating
a workshop on maintaining cleanliness of water sources here today, the Minister
impressed upon people to co operate in preserving water resources in the State.
The workshop was organized by Community and Capacity Development Unit.
Minister
for CA&PD, Qamar Ali Akhoon also addressed the gathering and stressed on
the need to preserve water sources in the State.
CEC, LAHDC,
Kargil, Kachoo Ahmad Ali Khan also spoke on the occasion.
During
the tour, the Minister also laid foundation stone of Rs. 6.94 crore water
supply scheme which is expected to benefit the people of Kargil town and Baro
village.
Earlier,
the Minister reviewed the schemes and projects of the Departments under his
charge in a meeting with LAHDC, Kargil.
Kissan
Advisory Board holds meet at Pulwama
PULWAMA,
SEPTEMBER 25:- The meeting of Pulwama
District Advisory Board of Kissans was held today under the Chairmanship of
Vice Chairman J&K State Advisory Board for Development of Kisans, Mr. Rachpal Singh.
Among
others the District Development Commissioner Mr. Shafaat Noor, Secretary of the
Board, Mr. G.N. Mir, all district officers of agriculture and allied departments
including officers from irrigation, Rural Development, Cooperative, employment
and lead bank were present in the meeting.
The
District Advisory Board Members and some prominent farmers of the area were
also present in the meeting. The problems confronted by the farming community
of the district were discussed threadbare in the meeting. On spot directions
were issued to the concerned officers for taking remedial measures for
mitigating the problems of the farmers.
The Vice
Chairman instructed the executive engineers Irrigation for formulation of
proposal for provision of proper irrigation facilities at various places as
demanded by the orchardists’. He asked Chief Horticulture Officer Pulwama, to
set up nurseries so that the fruit plants conducive to the atmosphere of the
area are provided to the orchardists.
The Vice
Chairman informed the meeting that as per norms no guarantee is required for
loan up to Rs. 1 lakh to farmers holding Kisan Credit card. The lead bank
officer was directed to get all the cases cleared for grant of loan pending in
different banks of the district.
The Chief
Agriculture Officer Pulwama was asked for preparation and issuance of Kisan
Credit Cards to left over farmers as early as possible.
Union MoS
Power inspects dam site of KGPP Bandipora
Rs.
1637.73 cr spent so far on it
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 25: Union Minister of State for Power Mr.
Venugopal Rao accompanied by Minister of State for Power Mr. Shabir Ahmad Khan
and other authorities made an extensive tour of Bandipora today and inspected
the Dam site of Kishan-Ganga Power Project (KGPP). The team inspected the 23 km
long tunnel which is in progress at Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM).
MLA Bandipora, Mr. Nizam-u-Din Bhat, MLA Gurez, Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, Director NHPC, Mr. J.K Sharma,
Principal Secretary Power Mr. Sudhansu Pandey, District Development
Commissioner Bandipora, Manzoor
Ahmad Lone besides other officers accompanied the Ministers.
During the visit, people of the area put forth various demands
which include providing of better power supply, providing of employment to
unemployment youth in the power project etc. The Ministers ensured them that
their genuine demands would be considered sympathetically. They sought peoples
cooperation in the execution of the power project which they said was in
progress for overall development of the area.
It was told that Rs. 3642 crore are being incurred on this 330 MW
power project and is expected to be completed in January, 2016. Rs. 1637.73
crore stand utilized on it so far. In addition, about 10 km out of 23 kms long
tunnel has been completed so far.
Chib lays
foundation of ITI Banihal
Rs. 50
lakh being spent on new stadium
BANIHAL,
SEPTEMBER 25:- Minister for Medical Education, Technical Education, Youth
Services & Sports, Mr. R.S. Chib today laid the foundation stone of new ITI
Complex Banihal in presence of MLA Banihal, Mr. Vikar Rasool.
Principal
Secretary, PDD, Technical Education & Youth Services & Sports, Mr.
Sudhanshu Panday, Director Technical Education and Deputy Commissioner Ramban
were also present on this occasion.
The ITI
Complex is being constructed at a cost of Rs 2.48 Crore and provides for
workshop block, hostel & Administrative Block. The building will be
completed by March 2013 and it is being funded under PMRP.
In his
address, Mr. R. S. Chib stated that the possibility of setting-up another ITI
at Ramsoo shall be explored as & when the sanction for setting-up of new
fifty ITIs in the State is received from Union Government. He also announced
that an amount of Rs 50 lakh shall be spent during the current financial year
for construction of new Stadium at Banihal and also a playing field shall be
developed at Ukhral.
Later,
Mr. Chib also inaugurated the cricket tournament being held by the Senior
Citizens in the ground of Higher Secondary School Banihal.
Implement traffic rules strictly: Shakeel Beig
SRINAGAR, SEPTEMBER 25: In order to inculcate traffic sense among
road users especially the drivers of Banihal and Poonch routes, Traffic Police
Jammu today organised awareness camp at General Bus Stand Jammu. Large number
of drivers, conductors, transporters and office bearers of transport agencies
attended the camp.
Deliberating on the precautions for avoiding fatal road accidents,
the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Traffic Jammu Mr. Shakeel Ahmed Beig
asked the participants to adhere traffic rules in latter and spirit. He said
that overloading, over speeding and drunken driving are the main causes which
lead to accidents. He asked all stake holders to cooperate with traffic cops in
implementing the rules.
Mr. Beig stressed upon the operators to keep all valid documents
alongwith for obtaining one time checking slips which could lead to avoid
inconvenience caused by frequent checking. The drivers are made aware about the
disadvantages of use of mobile phones and music players while driving the
vehicles. He said that fatal road accidents have caused due to the negligence
of the drivers resulting in the loss of precious human lives. This practice
must be stopped, said Mr. Beig.
President Banihal Transport Group, Mr. Pritam Singh and Vice
Chairman Poonch Route, Mr. R.P.Kohli who were present in the camp, appreciated
the initiatives taken by the Mr. Beig in creating awareness about the traffic
rules among the drivers. He said that such efforts would yield good results and
help in avoiding road accidents.
Govt approves
OBC hostels for Jammu, Srinagar: Verma
‘100 Other
Backward Classes youth to get loan through EDI’
JAMMU, SEPTEMBER 25- The
government has approved construction of two hostels one each at Jammu and
Srinagar to provide accommodation facilities to the Other Backward Classes
(OBC) youth pursuing their studies in the twin
capitals of the state.
The government has already
allotted 15 kanal land for construction of OBCs Hostel and OBCs Bhawan at Kiang
in Jammu and
Pampore in Kashmir, Vice
Chairman State Advisory Board for the Welfare and Development of Other Backward
Classes (OBC), Mr. Kuldeep Raj Verma, told reporters at a press
conference here
today.
He said that till the
hostels are constructed, the hostel accommodation would be provided in rental
buildings.
Listing the measures taken
by the government for the welfare of the OBC population on the recommendations
of the Advisory Board, Verma also informed that the government has also agreed
to provide loan to 100 OBC youth this fiscal through Entrepreneurship
Development Institute (EDI), besides admission to this category candidates in
ITI institutions under special quota.
Mr. Verma further informed that State Advisory Board for the
Welfare and Development of Other Backward Classes was vigorously pursuing the
issues of OBC people with the government as a result of which the government has enhanced the income slab
of Rs 3
lakh for
obtaining OBC/OSC certificate to Rs.
4.50 lakh.
Mr. Verma said that
the people of these classes have to face lot of difficulties for getting such
certificates and now on the recommendation of the Board the government has
decided to issue OBC/OSC certificates simultaneously in one go.
Mr Verma further said
that on the pattern of Government of India the pre-matric scholarship for OBC beneficiaries have been
enhanced to Rs. 44,500 and post-matric to Rs 1 lakh per annum.
The vice-chairman also informed that the demand for enhancement of
OBC reservation from 2% to 27% was also under active consideration of the
government
He extended gratitude to UPA Chairperson Ms. Sonia Gandhi, Prime
Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, Chief Minister, Mr Omar Abdullah, who is also
chairman of State Advisory Board, for the measures initiated by the state and
centre governments for the Welfare and Development of Other Backward
Classes.
Workshop on “Good
Agricultural Practices for Production of Export Quality Basmati Rice” organized
at Samba
SAMBA, SEPTEMBER 25-
Department of Agriculture, Samba in collaboration with Basmati Export
Development Foundation, Meerut (UP) Tuesday organised one day workshop on
“Good Agricultural Practices For Production of Export Quality Basmati
Rice” where
at more than
150 progressive farmers of district participated.
The programme was
inaugurated by District Development Commissioner Mubarak Singh.
Speaking on the occasion he
appreciated the efforts taken by the department of agriculture for organising
the workshop to encourage farmers to produce export quality basmati. He advised the farmers to take full benefit of the
workshop and implement the same in their fields.
Dr Ritesh Sharma, Sr Scientist, Basmati Export Development
Foundation (BEDF) gave a brief introduction on BEDF and Basmati Rice with a
special emphasis on production of export quality basmati in Jammu Region. Dr
Ritesh further informed that Jammu Basmati can be promoted as pesticide free
basmati as the farmers of this region uses the least pesticide on their Crop.
Sh Ranjan Sundrasan Executive Director, All India Rice Exporters
Association delivered the view of exporters and committed to purchase the
Basmati Produce from Jammu directly by the exporters to minimize the gap
between the producers and Exporters.
Dr S.S.Jamwal Joint Director of Agriculture (Extension) while
addressing the farmers gave detailed information on steps being taken by the
Department of Agriculture for revival of Basmati in the belt extending from
Akhnoor to Kathua covering R.S.Pura, Bishnah and Samba Area.
Sh A.K Malhotra, Chief Agriculture Officer, Samba gave a detailed
note on present status of basmati cultivation in the district and various
schemes promoting basmati in the district. Mr Malhotra also presented a draft
proposal for promotion of traditional basmati in the district so as to increase
the production & productivity of crop thereby improving their socio
economic status of the farming community.
Dr Rajender Singh from Modipuram Agriculture University, Meerut
(UP) presented a lecture on IPM and Organic cultivation in Basmati Rice, Dr R.K.Salgotra Associate Professor, Plant Breeding from SKUAST-J
delivered lecture on Varietal improvement of Basmati. Dr Lekh Chand, Associate
Professor Agronomy from
SKUAST–J gave
lecture on “Integrated Nutrient & Water Management in basmati” while Dr R.S
Sodhi, Asstt Proff Plant Pathology from SKUAST-J gave a lecture on “Judicious
use of Chemical Pesticides for minimization of residues & Disease Control
in Basmati Rice”
Vote of thanks was presented by Sh D.C.Bhagat, District
Agriculture Officer, CAD, Jammu/Samba.
Others who were present
included ADDC Samba Neelam Sethi, S. Karanjit Singh, Sub-Divisional Agriculture
Officer Samba, Sh Ashok Gupta, Sh K. K. Koul Subject Matter Specialists and
Agriculture Extension Officers/Junior Agriculture Extension Officers of the department.
Protests in Hazratbal against Waqf authorities after marble slabs
come out of dome
Srinagar, Sept 25 (VOS): Hundreds of people Tuesday held protests against Waqaf
Board authorities in Hazratbal area after some marble slabs came
out of the dome of the revered shrine located on the banks of Dal Lake.
Eyewitnesses told VOS that
a few marble slabs came down during the renovation work. However, no one was
hurt in the incident.
The protesters alleged
that the Waqf authorities had used substandard material which resulted in the
marble slabs falling off the dome. Renovation work on the shrine has been
going on for the last couple of years
However, Superintendent Engineer Waqf Board, Farooq Ahmad Shah
denied that the slabs fell due to usage of sub-standard material.
“Some 45 years back when the dome was constructed then Muslim
Auqaf Trust (MAT) authorities had ignored the safety measures due to which
today’s incident happened,” he told VOS.
He said only polishing work of the dome is going on and half portion
has been polished so far.
“There was leakage last year and an outside firm rectified it,”
Shah added.
Sources told VOS that angry protesters had a
verbal brawl with Minister for Rural Development Ali Mohammad Sagar and Chief
Minister’s Political Advisor Mubrak Gul after both of them reached the spot to
pacify the protesters.
Superintendent Police Hazratbal, Abdul Qayoom said that no one was
injured in the incident. “Some protests were held but now the situation is
under control,” he told VOS.
Qayoom said that Asr prayers were held in the shrine and 40-50
people offered prayers.
Meanwhile, immediately after hearing the news, Jammu and Kashmir
Liberation Front (JKLF) chairman, Mohammad Yasin Malik visited Hazratbal.
Addressing people Hazratbal, Malik said, “Waqf Board authorities
are responsible for today’s incident. Sub-standard material has been used in
the construction of the shrine and it is responsibility of the authorities to
take immediate action in this regard.” (VOS)
Prof Soz writes to CM
‘Accept provisions of the 73rd Amendment’
Srinagar, Sept 25 (VOS): State Congress President Prof Saif-ud-Din Soz Tuesday urged
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to accept the provisions of the 73rd Amendment of
the Constitution of India to empower Sarpanchs and Panchs in the state.
In a letter to the CM, he said, “The J&K Pradesh Congress
Committee has been requesting you for a long time that the provisions of the
73rd Amendment of the Constitution of India need to be adopted by the State
Government in order to empower the Sarpanchs and Panchs, so that they render
service to the society.”
“It is widely known, that you claimed lot of credit for the
Government that 80 to 85 percent of the people in J&K State Participated in
the Panchayat elections and it was recognized, both nationally and
internationally, that these elections were held very freely and fairly. The
Congress has remained steadfast in its demand that the provisions under 73rd
Amendment of the Constitution have to be adopted in J&K, so that the Sarpanchs
and Panchs feel fully empowered. In recent times we requested you that if the
National Conference is not ready to adopt 73rd Amendment of the Constitution of
India, if so facto, it can incorporate these provisions in the Panchayati Raj
act of the State,” he added.
Prof Soz requested Omar to take measures for accepting the
provisions of the 73rd Amendment of the Constitution of India.
“In the last meeting of the Coordination Committee, I had also
suggested that Sarpanchs and Panchs should be offered some honorarium say Rs.
3000/ to Sarpanchs and Rs. 2000/ to Panchs, and a fresh demand for grant should
be raised with Government of India. It was last week that I wrote to Jairam
Ramesh Union Minister of RDD to agree with us to provide necessary amount of the
money for grant of honorarium to Sarpanchs and Panchs. I have also made an
earnest request to Hon’ble Prime Minister to grant this amount of money to
Government of Jammu and Kashmir. I also met Home Minister recently and
requested him to support the demand for grants,” Prof Soz said.
“I would request you to raise the demand with Government of India
for the required amount of money for sanction as honorarium to
Sarpanchs and Panchs. I would also request you to make up your mind on holding
elections to the Panchayats at the Block Level as also holding elections for
four seats on which Candidates would be elected for the J&K Legislative
Council,” he added.
Meanwhile, addressing a press conference here today at Congress
Headquarters Prof Soz said that the democratic battle for the empowerment of
the panchayat institution will continue inside and outside cabinet till it
reaches at logical conclusions. “JKPCC is fighting democratic battle with
coalition government and it’ll continue till panchyats are empowered” Soz said.
“It cannot be empowered until 73rd amendment act is adopted.”
He said that sarpanches and panches are feeling deprived and
hopeless as they are not in position to deliver the expectation of the people
who elected them. “Not empowering sarpanches and panches have made them
hopeless and they shy to face the people who elected them,” Soz said. “People
who elected them are asking them to deliver what they had promises but the fact
is they’re not empowered to meet with the demands of the people.”
Asked about the killing of panchyat members he said that some
unfortunate incidents have occurred “but it doesn’t mean every one is
insecure.”
Asked whether panchyat members will be provided security he said,
“It is not possible to provide security to every one.”
Asked why their minister in State assembly weren’t introducing
resolution for ratification of 73rd Amendment Act as possibility of majority of
votes are possible as PDP is supporting empowerment of panchayat as well, Soz
said, “Our fight is inside and outside cabinet and that is why I have written a
letter to chief Minister. There is no need of amendment or ratification right
now.” (VOS)
2 militants, solider killed in Handwara encounter
Srinagar, Sep 25 (VOS): Two militants and a solider were killed in an encounter in
Handwara area of north Kashmir’s frontier district of Kupwara on Tuesday.
Police said two unidentified militants and one Army personnel were
killed in an encounter with Handwara police and 30 Rashtriya Rifles in
Handwara.
“During the intervening night of September 24 and 25 police
alongwith 30-RR launched a search operation in village Haril Manzpora,
Handwara. The militants fired upon the search party which was retaliated
triggering an encounter in which two militants were killed,” a police
spokesperson said in a statement.
Army personnel Jawan Sandeep Kumar of 30 RR also lost his life in
the encounter. Police claimed to have recovered two AK 47 rifles and six AK
magazines from the slain militants.
“The search operation was still going on when the reports last
came in,” police said.
Mirwaiz to address OIC
contact group in New York
Srinagar, Sep 25 (VOS): Hurriyat Conference (M) chairman Mirwaiz
Umar Farooq has been invited to attend the OIC contact group meeting
of Foreign Ministers on Jammu & Kashmir to be held during the 67th session
of the UN general assembly at the UN headquarters in New York.
The OIC contact
group on Kashmir comprises foreign ministers of Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia
and Niger. The OIC Secretary General Akmeldin Ihsanoglu will chair
the session.
Hurriyat Conference has
an observer status in the OIC. Mirwaiz will address the contact group on
Kashmir on the September 26 and will also address the annual coordination
meeting of the foreign ministers of OIC on the September 28 at the
UN.
President of Pakistan
administrated Kashmir Sardar Yaqoob Khan will also be a part of the
Kashmir delegation to the UN.
A statement of Hurriyat
to VOS said the Mirwaiz will raise the issue of human rights
violations specially unmarked graves and impress upon OIC to play a pro
active role in the resolution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with the
wishes of the People of Jammu & Kashmir.
Sense of fear,
insecurity prevailing in state: Mufti
Jammu, Sept 26 (VOS): Patron of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Mufti Mohammad
Sayeed today said that chaos and confusion is prevailing in the State due to
lack of confidence among those who are running the coalition government headed
by National Conference. He observed that there is a sense of insecurity and
fear among the common masses because the government has failed to perform its
duty to provide security to the people.
Addressing a meeting of the office bearers of the party from Jammu
province, Mufti made a mention towards killings of Panchayat members and said
that this regime has failed to provide stability in the State.
“The State has been witnessing turbulent situation since 2009
after formation of this coalition regime,” he said and added that an atmosphere
of insecurity, anarchy and confusion still prevailing in the state.
While mentioning towards statement of Chief Minister in which he
has stated to take up the issue of killings of Panchayat members in Unified
Command, he said, “This statement reflects lack of confidence among those who
are at the helm of the affairs.”
He observed that prevailing chaos and uncertainty in the State
were result of the failure of the present regime to connect itself with the
common masses. “Instead of connecting with the common masses, the state
government has been further complicating the situation through its mis-deeds
and wrong doings”, he said.
“From the day one when this government was formed, there is instability
and uncertainty in the State and this situation is further worsening with every
passing day,” he said.
Lambasting coalition regime for its failure to create confidence
among Panchayat members, Mufti regretted that the present dispensation has undermined
all democratic institutions be it Urban Local Bodies, Panchayats or Assembly.
“Non serious attitude of the government to strengthen Panchayati
Raj Institutions can be gauged from the fact that after passing of more than
one year elections of Block Development Council and District
Development Council are yet to be held”, he said. He also took coalition
partner Congress to task for adopting double standard on empowering Panchayats.
“On the one hand Congress leadership has been demanding implementation of
73rd and 74th amendments in the state while on the other the
Congress has failed to convince the government to conduct elections of Block
and District development councils”, he said.
He further added that local Urban Local Bodies elections were
scheduled to be held in the month of February in 2010 but the government has
been delaying these elections.
Observing that there was no agreement between coalition partner
National Conference and Congress, he mentioned that Deputy Chief Minister who
belongs to Congress party also holds the portfolio of Urban and Housing
Development Department. Congress, which is partner of the
government, can not escape from its responsibility of delaying civic bodies
elections
Mufti flayed the coalition government for its failure to bring
transparency and accountability in the system. “Although the corruption has
been sneaked into the government from top to bottom, the anti-graft
institutions like State Accountability Commission (SAC) have deliberately make
non functional by the State Government”, he said and pointed out that instead
of allowing the SAC to take action against the corrupt politicians, the
government has fighting cases of its ministers in the court against the SAC.
The former Chief Minister reminded that during PDP led regime
Jammu and Kashmir was made special focus areas because the successive
governments at New Delhi had provided all possible help for restoring peace and
accelerating developmental activities in this region. “It was all due to the
credibility of the PDP that previous NDA regime and present UPA government had
provided all possible help to the PDP led regime”, he said and Prime Minister
Dr Manmohan Singh has contributed a lot in the economic development of the
State.
“It was all due to the efforts of PDP that first time after 1947
Jammu and Kashmir was brought to the development map of the country”, he said
and listed various developmental projects initiated during PDP-Congress regime
in Jammu region.
Reiterating resolve of his party to treat all regions and
sub-regions equally, he said that during PDP led regime all regions were
treated equally. He said that it was result of the good works of the party that
PDP has earned credibility of the people. “PDP has changed political discourse
of the State because this party has emerged as alternative of the National
Conference and has restored peoples’ faith in the democracy and democratic
institutions”.
S Rangil Singh, Tarlok Singh Bajwa, Thakur Balbir Singh, Ch.
Zulfikar Ali, Murtaza Khan, Asgar Ali, Ved Mahajan, Shanti
Devi, Daman Bhasin, Yashpal Sharma (Poonch), Fallail Singh, Ch.
Hussain Ali Wafa, Barat Bushan Gupta, S Jagjit Singh
Jagga, Ashok Jogi, R K Bali, Pawan Dev Singh, Hamid
Manhas, Partap Sharma, Sheikh Mujib Ali, Abdul Ahad Wani, Sukhdev
Sharma, Surinder Singh, Dinesh Gupta, Daljit Singh Dicky, Rashpal
Singh Bitu, Bushan Lal Dogra, Chatter Singh Saini, Tarsem Saini, Rashpal
Billoria, Puneet Jamwal, Vikram Singh, Ch. Chuni lal, Dr. Mumtaz, ImtiyazAli
Banday, Gurmeet Singh raja, Shah Mohd Tantray, Rajinder Manhas, Kuljeet
Singh Jamwal, Imtiyaz Khanday, Avtar Singh Khalsa, Narinder Singh Raina,
Davinder Sharma, Shakti Kumar, Parveen Katal, Suresh Sharma, Satpal Singh
Charak, Bansi Lal Thakur, Riaz Ahmed Zargar, Sheikh Abdul Latif, Shahzad Khan,
Tahir Sajjad Lone and others also addressed and attended the meeting. (VOS)
Guv expresses grief over
loss of life in Kupwara accident
Srinagar, Sept 25 (VOS): Governor N N Vohra has expressed grief over the loss of
human lives in a road accident in Tangdar area of Kupwara district.
In a message, the Governor conveyed his sympathy to the bereaved
families and prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls. He also prayed for
the speedy recovery of all those injured in this tragic accident.
Raj Bhavan spokesman said that the Governor has urged the Director
General of Police to urgently review the obtaining traffic regulations,
particularly regarding the movement of passenger carriers and buses and issue
immediate directions for the ground staff to effectively ensure against
overloading, which is reportedly among the frequent causes for fatal accidents.
KU to hold 18th annual convocation
Mukherjee to deliver address
Srinagar, Sept 25 (VOS): Celebrating scholarship and academic excellence the
University of Kashmir (KU) is all set to host the 18th annual convocation on
September 27 at KU Convocation Complex.
The convocation is held under the provision of the KU Act 1969 to
honour, award degrees, gold medals and certificates of
The Act lays down its manner of merit to students and scholars.
conduct and order of the procession of academics, students.
Expressing happiness over holding of the event within the campus
KU Vice Chancellor Prof Talat Ahmad said that to hold convocation is an event
of extreme significance for the university as a whole and particularly this
ceremony is the most important day in a student’s life as well.
He said besides the grade ‘A’ awarded to KU by the National
Assessment and Accreditation Council presently the University offers numerous
courses and accommodates more than 4000 students annually and produces dozens
of gold-medallists each year.
He said “During the occasion we will showcase the success story of
the University besides honouring the scholars from science, arts, humanities,
information technology, medical and other backgrounds.”
In 1951 the varsity convened its first convocation at the
Sher-i-Kashmir Park here at Srinagar.
Pertinently more than 214 students will be awarded medals (gold
and silver) besides 234 Ph.Ds, 399 M.Phils, 21240 Post graduates, 119799
undergraduates and 93 diploma holders will be awarded on this occasion.
President Pranab Mukherjee will arrive on a maiden visit to Jammu
and Kashmir on Wednesday, after his election as Head of the State in July this
year, to attend the convocation ceremony of University of Kashmir.
He will hand over degrees and medals to outstanding scholars of
the University on this occasion. He will be the Chief Guest on the occasion and
will also deliver the convocation address. N N Vohra Governor J&K State and
Chancellor University of Kashmir will preside over the convocation and Omar
Abdullah Chief Minister of the J&K State and Pro -Chancellor University of
Kashmir will be the guest of honour.
Afzal Guru’s mother
passes away
Srinagar, Sep 25 (VOS): Mother of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru
breathed her last at her Doabgaw Sopore residence on Tuesday.
Reports said Aisha
Begum, 75, wife of Habib-ullah Guru was ill for the last one month. She was
laid to rest at her Doabgaw ancestral graveyard.
Meanwhile, various
political and social organizations have condoled the demise and prayed for the
departed soul.
Ensure no construction on agriculture land in Anantnag: Shah to
officers
Srinagar, Sep 25 (VOS): Taking a fresh initiative to ensure the delivery of
governance at ground level the District administration today devised a new
cleanliness and encroachment free Anantnag district.
In this direction the DDC Anantnag Farooq Ahmad Shah today
convened a meeting of Tehsildars and Executive officers of the district.
“The Tehsildars and Executive officers were asked to ensure that
no construction is allowed on the agriculture land in the district,” an
official said.
He said that the officials were also directed to stop encroachment
on state land, water bodies including irrigation canals, flood channels and
springs and demolish the existing ones in the district.
“The Executive officers along with Tehsildars were also asked to
conduct market checking on weekly basis and remove all the encroachments from
footpaths,” he said.
They were also told to submit weekly assessment report to the
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Anantnag.
Shah also directed the officials not to allow any sort of
construction whether commercial or residential on Khanabal-Mehandi Kadal
stretch of road and KP road
The DDC announced that soon the administration will make Pahalgam
free from any kind of encroachments by launching a week long drive which will
be later followed in other mini towns of Anantnag district.
ADC Anantnag, Ghulam Muhammad Dar and Additional District
Development Commissioner (ADDC), Nisar Ahmad Wani were also present in the
meeting.
“The conservation of agriculture land, protection of water bodies
particularly springs and utilizing state land for the benefit of people is my
utmost priority and no laxity on the part of any officials will be accepted,”
said DDC.
He said that any sort of violation will be dealt strictly.
Police take possible measures for the security of the Panchs &
Sarpanchs: IGP
Srinagar, September 25: Inspector General of
police Mr. S M Sahai visited Kreeri to oversee the investigation of killing of
Naib Sarpanch Mohammad Shafi Teeli in
Kreeri. He directed to expedite the investigation of the case so that the
perpetrators will be brought to book at the earliest.
IGP
directed DIG NKR and SSP Baramulla to review the security of the area and
formulate measures to bolster their security in the area.
IGP
reiterated that police we will try to ensure the safety of the elected members.
He said that the assault on the elected representatives of the people will be
considered an assault on the will of the people, and police will take whatever
it takes to provide them all possible security.
IGP
further added that police solved the killing of Sarpanch Ghulam Mohammad Dar in
Hawoorah, Kulgam and all the accused in the case have been charge sheeted in
the court of law. He added that police has arrested one person associated with
a separatist organization involved in instigating killing of the Sarpanch
Ghulam Mohammad Yattoo at Palhalan Pattan and the investigation in the case is
moving in right direction to get to the other perpetuators.
____________________________________________________
Advertisement
Manager:-Ishfaq Dar(9797761777)
No comments:
Post a Comment