SRINAGAR,
FRIDAY, 24 ZUL QAADAH 1433 AH ; 12 OCTOBER 2012
Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com
Speed breakers to be properly painted with proper signage for
public safety: Javid
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:
The Minister of State for R&B, Mr. Javid Ahmed Dar Thursday said that speed
breakers near school buildings, public offices, market places etc on
Handwara-Vilgam-Kralpora road will be provided with proper paintings and
signage.
The Minister was
replying to a Short Notice Question by Syed Mohammad Rafiq Shah in the
legislative council today regarding erection of steep and sharp speed breakers
without proper paintings and signage.
The Minister said that
Handwara-Vilgam road was sanctioned under PMGSY (Phase-VII) in two parts i.e.
Handwara Magam Tulwari road (16 kms) and Handwara Shaloora km 17th to
Dolipora (6 kms) for purposes of upgradation to macadamized status. Out of
total length of 22 Kms, macadamization of 17.5 kms of the road stands already
completed by ending September 2012.
He said that 18 speed
breakers were erected in the built up areas i.e. village Magam, Neelipora,
Geeripora, Shogpora, Palpora, Wagath and Tulwari by the locals of their own
which are in the process of removal. He said that 16 speed breakers as per
design with proper paintings and signage will be developed near school
buildings, hospitals, public offices and market places for the safety of the
general public.
110 bed Hospital block at District Hospital Anantnag to be ready
soon: Sham
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:
Minister for Health, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma today said that the constructing
agency of the new hospital building at District Hospital Anantnag has committed
to handover one block of the hospital during current year with strength of 110
beds, 7 theatres and 10 OPD rooms.
The Minister was
replying to a Short Notice Question by Dr. Bashir Ahmed Veeri in the
Legislative Council today. He said that since all the wings are functional in
M.M. A. B. Memorial Hospital and the present staff consisting of 16
consultants, 22 doctors and 116 paramedical etc will have to look after both
the wings of the hospital. However, for smooth functioning of hospital,
additional staff is being arranged for the proper management and patient care.
Replying to another
Short Notice Question by Mr. Murtaza Ahmad Khan, the Minister said that the
reconstruction of the boundary wall adjacent to a private medical shop at
sub-district hospital, Surankote will be completed within a fortnight.
Development Authorities preparing revised Master Plan 2000-2021:
Tara Chand
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:
Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Tara Chand today informed the house that the Jammu
and Srinagar Development Authorities which are responsible for preparation and
implementation of Master plans have undertaken exercise of revision of Master
Plan 2000-2021.
Deputy Chief Minister
was replying to a short notice question by Mr. Murtaza Ahmed Khan in the
Legislative Council today. He said that in case of Jammu Development Authority
the draft master plan has been prepared by CEPT University, Ahmadabad and is
ready for inviting objections / suggestions of the general public. Same will be
finalized and notified in next six months, he said.
In case of Srinagar
Development Authority, Mr. Tara Chand said that the preparation of revised Master
Plan has been entrusted to SAI Consulting and Engineering Pvt. Limited,
Ahmadabad. The draft Master Plan is in initial stage. Basic data is being
collected for finalization of the draft Master Plan. Same is likely to be ready
for inviting public objections in next 10 months, he said.
Replying to another
short notice question by Dr. Bashir Ahmed Veeri and Mr. Naresh Kumar Gupta, the
Deputy Chief Minister informed the House that there are 11 Municipal
Institutions in district Anantnag including Municipal Council Anantnag.
Crop damage relief to be provided under revised SDRF norms: Bhalla
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:
Minister for Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Mr. Raman Bhalla informed the
House that due to the hailstorm / heavy rains on 13 June, 2012, as many as 4048
hectares of Rabi crop (Wheat) have been damaged as per the assessment made by
the District Administration Kathua.
The Minister was
replying to a Call Attention Notice by Mr. Subash Chander Gupta in Legislative
Council today. He said the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu has sought
clarification from Deputy Commissioner, Kathua regarding admissibility of
relief in light of the revised SDRF norms issued by the Union Ministry of Home
Affairs. The matter is under examination in the office of Deputy Commissioner,
Kathua, he added.
The Minister said that
as soon as the final damage report / requirement of funds is received, the
matter in respect of cases admissible in terms of state Disaster Response Fund
(SDRF) norms shall be placed before the State Executive Committee for
consideration of release of funds.
Upgradation of roads in Kupwara under progress: Javid
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:
Minister of State for R&B, Mr. Javid Ahmed Dar informed the House that
Batpora Thandipora Foazdar Mohalla link road in district Kupwara is part of the
Scheme “Construction of Batpora Sonthipra Panzgam Thandipora road” sanctioned
under NABARD RIDF XII at a cost of Rs. 204.19 lakhs. He said that all the 8.50
kms road length envisaged in the scheme has been brought to WBM G-III Status
and expenditure of Rs. 174.05 lakhs incurred ending March, 2012. He further
informed that 2.00 km length covering villages of Panzgam and Rashanpora have
been blacktopped during the current financial year till date and remaining 6.50
kms is proposed to be taken up during next year subject to availability of
funds.
The Minister was
replying to a Calling Attention Notice by Mr. Mohammad Rafiq Shah in
Legislative Council today. He further informed the House that
Daradpora-Wasa-Kathu-Parizgam road is sanctioned under NABARD RIDF XIV, at a
cost of Rs. 223.61 lakhs against which an expenditure of Rs. 201.40 lakhs has
been booked till date.
The Minister said that
all the 8.50 kms road length sanctioned under the scheme has been brought to
WBM G-III Status. Blacktopping on 3 kms has been completed and blacktopping on
2 more kms is in progress.
Several measures taken to check drug abuse: Sham
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:
The Minister for Health, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma in the Legislative Council today
said that the Drug and Food Control Organization has taken several initiatives
to curb the menace of drug abuse however, he said, the organization has not
conducted any survey to establish the exact number of youth involved in drug
abuse.
During an half an hour
discussion raised by Mr. Khalid Najeeb Suharwardy, the Minister said that ‘The
Drugs and Cosmetics Act’ has been enacted in the state to control manufacture
and sale of drugs in the country. He said the inspectorate staff posted at
Tehsil headquarters are keeping a close and constant vigil over the movement of
pharmaceutical preparations and taking cognizance of any breach of act,
committed at various levels of supply chain.
He said that the new
brands of drugs identified by the field staff are kept under surveillance to
monitor their usage. Any significant increase in their conception levels is
investigated and pilferages noticed, if any are dealt as per the mandate of
law. He said coordinated approach between excise, police and officers of the
drug organization at the entry point of the state “Lakhanpore has reduced
illegal import of such drugs into the state”.
SFC extracting timber from dry, fallen trees: Altaf
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:-
Minister for Forest, Mian Altaf Ahmed in reply to question by Mr. Naresh Kumar
Gupta informed the House that firewood is not being supplied to the public in
any of the area for domestic purposes.
However, the Minister
said firewood is being supplied from firewood depots at subsidized rates for
religious purposes only. He said the department is not in a position to supply
the firewood to the consumers on subsidized rates for domestic use.
The Minister said that
the State Forest Corporation is extracting timber from dry standing and fallen
trees duly marked. He further said that there is no provision to extract
firewood/timber under Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning
Authority (CAMPA).
Rs. 113.56 cr released for construction of Panchayats Ghars: Sagar
Minister for Rural
Development, Panchayat Raj, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar in reply to a question by
Mr. Ravinder Kumar Sharma informed the House that an amount of Rs. 113.56 crore
stand released under 13th Finance Commission for
construction of 1135 Panchayat Ghar buildings in convergence with MGNREGA
during 2011-12 and 2012-13.
The Minister said Rs.
57.95 crore under first installment for 2012-13 is being released for repair
and renovation of existing damaged Panchayat Ghars. He said till date 899
Panchayats Ghar buildings have been taken up for construction in the State and
no panchayats Ghar has been completed as it took lot of time in identifying
land for the purpose. He said however, in Panchayat Halqas where land has been
made available the work has been started and 50% of the Panchayat Ghars taken
up are expected to be completed during the current financial year.
The Minister said that
Panchayat Halqas where no Panchayat building is in place a provision of rent @
Rs. 600 per Panchayat Ghar has been made for which an amount of Rs.1.23 crore
has been provided by the Planning and Development department. He said to
acquaint Panchayat Raj functionaries’ with the rules and responsibilities; a
capacity building programme was launched in the year 2011-12. He said a group
of 440 trainers were identified by the Rural Development department. He further
said that an amount of Rs. 1 lakh has been provided to each Panchayat for
taking up of works of minor nature in their areas. The aim of providing such
funds directly is to initiate the Panchayat Raj Institutions in the process of
governance besides an amount of Rs. 25000 for each Panchayat has been provided
for furniture/fixture to enable elected representative to operate from the
office space.
In reply to another
question by Nurboo Gialchan, Mr. Sagar said the number of employees recruited
under State/Divisional cadre during the last three years under ST/RBA quota is
3686.
He said out of these,
161 employees belong to Leh.
Necessary surgical equipments provided to District, Sub-district
hospitals: Sham
Minister for Health Mr.
Sham Lal Sharma in reply to a question by Syed Mohammad Rafiq Shah informed the
House that as per the status of the hospitals, all necessary surgical
equipments have been provided to all major district and sub-district hospital
of Kupwara and Baramulla in a phased manner.
In reply to another
question by Nurboo Gialchan on behalf of Aga Syed Rizvi, the Minister said that
there are 32 posts of Nurses lying vacant in district Kargil out of these 32
posts, 29 posts of Junior Nurses stands already referred to the District
Services Selection Recruitment Board Kargil for filling up the same.
The Minister said that
as soon as the selection of the candidates is received from the district
Service Selection Recruitment Board Kargil, same will be filled up
accordingly.
Committee to decide on setting up of new degree colleges: Malik
Minister for Higher
Education, Mr. Abdul Gani Malik in reply to question by Khalid Najeeb
Suharwardhy informed the House that Government has constituted a Committee to
look into the feasibility and other parameters and also to devise a mechanism
for establishment of new degree colleges in the uncovered areas of the State on
modern lines.
The Minister said that
the Committee shall visit the identified places/areas including Doda and
furnish its report with regard to feasibility of setting up of a women’s
college there, on the basis of which decision will be taken.
MC Katra earns Rs. 5.67 cr tax during 2011-12: Tara Chand
Deputy Chief Minister,
Mr. Tara Chand in reply to a question by Mr. Jugal Kishore Sharma informed the
House that Municipal Committee Katra has been running tax collection counters
at Katra, Ban-Ganga, Charanpadika, Adkawari and Bhawan. He said an amount of
Rs. 5.67 crores tax have been collected from April 2011 to March 2012 from
these counters.
Minister of State for
R&B, Mr. Javed Ahmed Dar in reply to a question by Jahangir Hussain Mir informed
the House that presently no proposal is under the consideration of the
government regarding construction of circular road around the Poonch town.
Mr. Murtaza Ahmed Khan
raised the supplementary to question.
55663 DRWs regularized by Sept 2012: Manohar
Minister of State for
Planning Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma in reply to a question by Mr. Murtaza Ahmed
Khan informed the House that the Finance Department has cleared the
regularization of 55663 cases of Daily Rated Workers upto 24 September 2012 out
of 59105 cases who have been engaged prior to January 31, 1994.
The Minister said the
cases of leftover DRWs will be considered for regularization as and when their
cases completed in all respects, are received in the Finance Department.
Regarding the regularization
of casual labours, he said a Cabinet Sub-Committee has been constituted, to go
into the extent/magnitude of the problem relating to casual workers i.e
Financial, Legal and administrative, that may arise in the regularization of
such temporary workers and to work out and appropriate policy. He said the
required information has been received from almost all the departments and has
been placed before the Cabinet Sub-Committee.
In reply to another
question by Dr. Bashir Ahmed Veeri on behalf of Mohammad Amin Bhat, the
Minister said that the funds are not released constituency wise as the same is
not the unit of development.
In replying to another
question by Sheikh Ghulam Rasool, Dr. Manohar said that there is a provision to
supplement the construction of Government and Government aided school buildings
under CDF provided that the institutions are in existence for not less than two
years.
The Minister said
however in view of the resource constraint, there is no proposal under the
consideration of the Government for providing aid to the private schools as
most of them is being run on commercial line.
No shortage of passenger transport in Wakoora: Shabir
Minister of State for
Transport, Mr. Shabir Ahmed Khan in reply to question by Haji Ali Mohammad Bhat
informed the House that there is no shortage of passenger transport in Wakoora.
He said the passenger transport service by way of medium/mini buses in Ganderbal
area is created through Harmukh Transport Company with approximate fleet of 200
vehicles operating from Soura including Soura-Wakoora route.
Rather lays papers related to RTI, CAG in LC
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:-
Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather on
behalf of Chief Minister laid on the table of the House the notification
(SRO-279 dated: 30-08-2012) issued under section 24 of the Jammu and Kashmir
Right to Information Act, 2009 (Act No. VIII of 2009).
The Minister also laid on
the table of the House a copy of the report of the Comptroller and Auditor
General of India on District Jammu (Report No. 02 of 2012) for the year ended
31st March, 2011.
LC passes three Bills
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:-
The Legislative Council today unanimously passed a Bill to protect the interest
of depositors of financial establishments and for the matters connected
therewith or incidental thereto (L.A Bill No. 11 of 2012). The Bill has already
been passed by the Legislative Assembly. The Bill was moved by Minister for
Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather.
The House also passed
the Bill to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Employees Provident Fund (and
Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1961 (L.A Bill No. 12 of 2012). This Bill has
also been passed by Legislative Assembly.
The Bill was moved in
the House by Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Abdul Gani Malik.
The House passed the
Bill to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management)
(Amendment) Bill, 2012 (L.A Bill No. 13 of 2012) which has already been passed
Legislative Assembly vote.
The Bill was moved by
Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi ud-Din.
Sheikh Ghulam Rasool,
Najeeb Suharwardhy, and Murtaza Ahmed Khan spoke on the Bill.
Chairman orders for constitution of Committee
Srinagar October 11-
After threadbare discussion on the bills regarding establishment of Private
Universities and in light of observations made by the Chairman on Oct 10, 2012,
Minister of Medical Education, Mr. R.S. Chib moved a motion for constitution of
Committee. The Motion was adopted by voice vote and chairman ordered for
constitution of committee for the purpose.
Mr. Najeeb Suhurwardy,
Mr. Naresh Kumar Gupta, Sheikh Ghulam Rasool and Jahangir Hussain Mir expressed
their views on the subject.
House extends time of House Committee
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11-
The House adopted the motion moved by Mr. Ajat Shatru Singh, regarding
extension of the time for presentation of report, by the House Committee (HC),
constituted to look into the issue of acquisition of 796 kanals of land at Rakh
Amb Tali in Samba.
The motion was adopted
by voice vote and time for presentation of the report was extended up
to the last day of the next session.
Rachpal for issuing soil Health cards to farmers
Says soil testing imperative for boosting agriculture
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:-
The Vice Chairman of the J&K State Advisory Board for Development of
Kisans, Th. Rachpal Singh has called for dove tailing schemes of the irrigation
and horticulture departments to provide adequate irrigation facilities to the
orchardists and farmers.
Chairing the District
Advisory Board for Development of Kisans at Sheikh-ul-Alam Hall Budgam today,
Th. Rachpal asked various departments related to Agriculture, horticulture,
sheep husbandry and animal husbandry to coordinate with one another so that
problems of the farming community are redressed and they are acquainted with
the modern agriculture technologies.
Besides, the District Development
Commissioner, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Gani, Chief Agriculture officer, Budgam Mr.
Mushtaq Ahmed Parrey, all District officers of Agriculture and allied
Departments, Co-operative, Employment and lead bank were present in the
meeting.
District Advisory Board
members and some prominent farmers of the area were also present in the meeting
who discussed the problems confronted by the farming community of the District
threadbare.
On spot directions were
issued to the concerned officers for taking remedial measures for mitigating
the problems of the farmers. Th. Rachpal instructed the Executive Engineer
Irrigation for formulation of proposal for provision of proper irrigation
facilities at various places as demanded by the Orchardists/farmers.
He issued instructions
to the Chief Horticulture officer for setting up of nurseries so that the fruit
plants conducive to the atmosphere of the areas are provided to the
orchardists. The Vice Chairman informed the meeting that as per norms no
guarantee is required for loan upto Rs. 1 lakh to the farmers on Kisan Credit
Card (KCC). The lead bank officer was directed to get all the cases cleared for
grant of loan pending in different banks of the districts. Instructions were
also issued for intimating the number of cases in which loan on Kisan Credit
Cards have been granted during last year and current financial year.
Instructions were issued
to Chief Agriculture officer for preparation and issuance of Kisan Credit Cards
to left over farmers as early as possible. He asked the District Horticulture
officer for preparation soil health cards so that farmers are facilitated their
fields.
He issued instructions
to the Chief Agriculture officer to get the enforcement wing activated so that
sale of spurious fertilizers, pesticides and fungicides is stopped.
Instructions were also
issued for setting up of small milk plants, cold stores, sheep farms and dairy
units by involving the local unemployed youth who can be given
incentives/subsidies for setting up such units by the Government under
Sher-i-Kashmir Employment Scheme.
Taj moves motion for extension of time for joint Selection
Committee
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11-
Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din on behalf
of Deputy Chief Minister moved a motion for extension of time for presentation
of the Report by the Joint Select Committee constituted for the Jammu and
Kashmir Municipal Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2010 (L.A. Bill No. 29 of 2010)
and; the Jammu and Kashmir Property Tax Board Bill 2011 (L.A. Bill No. 11 of
2011).
The motion was adopted
by voice vote upto the last day of the next session.
Chairman adjourns House Sine-die
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:-
Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Council, Mr. Amrit Malhotra in exercise
of powers conferred upon him under Rule 16 of the Rules of Procedure and
Conduct of Business in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Council adjourned the
House sine-die today.
Giving details of the
business conducted in the House, the Chairman said that 271 questions of public
interest were taken up against 283 received from the members.
He said 5 short notice
questions were taken up, one notice for discussion were taken up. 3 half an
hour discussions out of 9 and 7 private members resolution were taken up out of
12 received. Similarly, 3 papers were laid on the table, 1 notice were taken
for discussion under Rule 53 besides 18 calling attentions out of 21 were taken
up during this period.
Three Government Bills
were passed and out of 6 private members Bills received 5 were taken up, 1
introduced and 1 passed, he added.
The Chairman thanked all
the legislators, print and electronic media, security, Council Secretariat and
other related departments for their cooperation and conduct of smooth autumn
session.
No
illegal possession of forest land by any sitting minister: Altaf
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11- Minister for Forests, Mian Altaf Ahmad while
reply to question
by Syed Mohammed Rafiq Shah said that as per the revenue authorities, no
illegal possession of forest land by any sitting minister has been established
so far in the Sadev Forests, adding that forest department has been directed to
re-verify the matter.
Chief
Executive Councillor LAHDC Leh meets Governor
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11 – Mr. Rigzin Spalbar, Chief Executive Councillor, Ladakh Autonomous
Hill Development Council, Leh and Mr. Norbu Gyalstan, Member of the State
Legislative Council, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here
this evening.
Mr.
Spalbar and Mr. Gyalstan discussed with the Governor various problems being
faced by LAHDC regarding the development of the Ladakh region and also briefed
him about the implementation of the various development works and welfare
schemes in the Leh district.
Governor for effective empowerment of physically challenged
persons
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11 – On the invitation of Mr. N. N. Vohra,
Governor, and Mrs. Usha Vohra, First Lady, physically challenged children of
the Special Help Line School, functioning under the aegis of the Humanity
Welfare Organisation HelpLine, Bijbehara, Anantnag, visited the Raj Bhavan,
here today.
The Governor, speaking on the occasion, discussed with Mr. Javed
Ahmad Tak, Hony Chairman, Humanity Welfare Organisation Helpline, Bijbehara,
Anantnag, about the adequacy of infrastructure so far created for the training
and education of these differently abled children at the Special Helpline
School. As in the past two years, the Governor assured that further help would
be provided for better facilities being made available to the differently abled
children.
Earlier, the children were introduced to the Governor and the Lady
Governor who interacted with the children, hosted them Lunch and wished them a
bright future ahead.
The specially abled children presented a captivating cultural
programme. They also demonstrated their laudable skills in various sports
activities, including tug of war, musical chairs and communicating through sign
language. They also presented a welcome song at the commencement of the
programme.
Mr. Javed Ahmad Tak, Hony Chairman, Humanity Welfare Organisation
Helpline, Bijbehara, Anantnag, said that it was consecutively for the past
three years that differently abled children have been visiting the Raj Bhavan.
He thanked the Governor for taking keen interest in the welfare and empowerment
of the differently abled persons in the State, adding that it was because of
his keen interest that persons with various disabilities have been provided
employment in different departments. He also expressed his gratitude to the
Governor for making the Raj Bhavan disabled-friendly with the provision of
ramps and a special toilet for the physically challenged. He hoped that this
would serve as a model for others to emulate to facilitate the access of physically
challenged.
Mr. Navin K. Choudhary, Principal Secretary to the Governor, was
present on the occasion.
Special educators of differently abled children and functionaries
of the Humanity Welfare Organisation Helpline accompanied the children on their
visit to Raj Bhavan.
ALL
J&K Sports Association of the Deaf presents Memorandum to Governor
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11 – A delegation of the All Jammu and Kashmir Sports Association of
the Deaf met Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today and submitted
to him a Memorandum of their demands.
The main
demand presented by the delegation led by Mr. Mohammad Saleem Wani, Hony
General Secretary of the Association, included affiliation of this Association
with the J&K State Sports Council for the promotion of silent games in the
State.
The
Governor gave a patient hearing to the delegation and urged Mr. Dalip Thussu, Secretary,
J&K State Sports Council, who had been invited to participate in the
meeting, to most urgently consider this demand so that the differently-abled
persons, particularly the deaf and dumb, get adequate opportunities to
demonstrate their sporting talents. Mr. Thussu informed the Governor that this
demand of the All Jammu and Kashmir Sports Association of the Deaf is already
under consideration and shall be favourably viewed in the forthcoming meeting
of the General Council to be chaired by the Chief Minister.
The
deputation comprised Mr. A. R. Wani, Vice Chairman of the Association, Mr.
Aftab Ahmad Kanthi, President and Mr. S. P. Singh,
Treasurer.
Chib
meets Governor
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11 – Mr. R. S. Chib, Minister for Youth Services and Sports and Medical
Education, met Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today afternoon.
Mr. Chib discussed with the Governor certain issues pertaining to the welfare of
ex-Servicemen. He thanked the Governor, who is Chairman of the Shri Mata
Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, for the Board undertaking the construction of a
stadium at Katra.
Mr. Chib also briefed the Governor about the initiatives being taken for the promotion
of sports and the implementation of schemes aimed at the welfare of the youth.
First
Lady releases Special Cover; calls for focused attention on female
education
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11 – As part of the celebration of the International Day of the Girl
Child, a function was organized by the Department of Posts at the General Post
Office Complex here today.
Mrs. Usha
Vohra, First Lady, who was the Chief Guest at the function, released a Special
Cover brought out by the Department of Posts on this occasion.
Speaking
on the occasion, the First Lady emphasized the need for focussed attention on
female education and observed that we have to make continued efforts to further
advance female education so that every girl gets educated. She added that this
also calls for seriously addressing the issue of drop-out rate among girls who
leave their studies halfway. She said that, along side education, the girls
need to be taught skills to become economically self-reliant.
Referring
to the declining sex ratio, the Lady Governor while stressing the need for
effective enforcement of laws to curb female foeticide, said that the civil
society must enhance awareness of the people against such social evils.
Mrs.
Vohra complimented Mr. John Samuel, Chief Post Master General, J&K Circle,
and the Department of Posts, for celebrating the International Day of the Girl
Child and hoped that this Day would go a long way towards the enlargement of
women’s empowerment.
Ms.
Ramona Samuel presented a memento to the Lady Governor on this occasion.
Mr. John
Samuel, Chief Post Master General, J&K Circle, highlighted the aims,
objects and importance of organizing the function to celebrate the
International Day of the Girl Child. He thanked the First Lady for agreeing to
be the Chief Guest on this occasion. He said that girls are excelling in all
spheres of human endeavour and whatever is required should be done for their
empowerment.
Ms.
Ramona Samuel stressed the need for enlarging awareness about the need for the
promotion of female education as this being the key to their progress and
empowerment.
Mr. Amit
Sharma, Director, Finance, and Mr. Jagdeep Gupta, Director Postal Services,
J&K Circle, also addressed the function.
A brief
cultural programme was presented by the school children on this occasion.
Work on
additional academic block at Women’s College Nawakadal to start soon: Gul
Discusses
proposal for new degree college at Sadpora, Idgah
SRINAGAR
OCTOBER 11: Advisor
to the Chief Minister, Mr. Mubarak Gul today convened a high level meeting to
discuss matters pertaining to the construction of additional academic block at
Government College for Women at Nawakadal and the construction of new Degree
College at Saidpora, Idgah.
The
meeting was attended by the Principal Womens’ College, Nawakadal and officers
and officials of JKPCC and education Department.
In view
of the of the increasing student roll in the Nawakadal college and insufficient
accommodation it was decided that the construction work on the additional block
should be started as soon as possible.
It was
apprised in the meeting that project report of Rs. 1356.57 lakh has been
submitted by the MD, JKPCC for the phase wise construction of the multi story
building of the Women College Nawakadal and as such Rs. 2.85 lakh will be
released as first installment for starting the work immediately. Further it was
decided that a modern style canteen will also be provided in the ground floor
of the building.
The
meeting also discussed a proposal for construction of New Degree College, on
land measuring 67 kanals at Sadpora Idgah for which a project report has been
prepared by JKPCC. The estimated construction of the project is Rs. 23.29
crore. It was decided in the meeting that the matter will be referred to the
Higher Education Department for inclusion in the next list of colleges to be
taken up for construction.
Mr. Gul
stressed upon the engineers for adopting modern styles and suitable shapes
keeping in view the modern requirements of education in the colleges.
Comprehensive
rehabilitation Plan underway for Athwajan, Parimpora, Nowgam Shopkeepers: Javed
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11: Minister of
State for R&B Mr. Javed Ahmad Dar has said that a comprehensive rehabilitation
project has been framed for dislocated shopkeepers of Nowgam, Athwajan and
Parimpora affected in road
widening project .
The
minister was reviewing the progress of the rehabilitation process, started by
the Government, at an officers meeting held here today.
Deputy
Commissioner, Srinagar, Mr. Baseer Ahmad Khan, Chief Engineer, R&B, Mushtaq
Ahmad, Project Director, National Highway Authority of India, Mr. Varendar
Singh and other senior officers and representatives of Shopkeepers Association
were present on the occasion.
It was
given out that Rs. 1.61 crore have been earmarked for rehabilitation of 188
dislocated shopkeepers while NHAI was asked to expedite provision of the rest
of the funds required for the purpose.
Deputy
Commissioner while giving the details of the project said that every aspect has
been kept in account while framing rehabilitation plan. He said the suggestions
of the shopkeepers are getting due consideration to ensure formation of
amicable rehabilitation plan.
Rather
chairs CSC meeting regarding C/L
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11:- A meeting of the cabinet sub-committee (CSC) constituted to go
into the extent/magnitude of the problem relating to casual workers i,e,
financial, legal and administrative that may arise in regularization of such temporary workers and to work out an appropriate policy, was held here today
under the chairmanship of the Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr.
Abdul Rahim Rather.
The Minister for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Mr. Ali
Mohammad Sagar and the Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr.
Taj Mohi-ud-din were also present in the meeting.
The concerned Officers related to the issue also attended the
meeting.
The matter was threadbare examined and discussed. It was decided that further information in this regard should be
obtained urgently from the departments who have not done it so far.
High
Level meeting reviews stock building in Leh, Kargil
Winter
stocking goes on satisfactorily: Rather
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11:- The Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr. Abdul Rahim
Rather today instructed the concerned heads of various departments to complete
stocking of food grains, petroleum products and key construction material in
both Leh and Kargil districts before the month of October so that inhabitants
of Ladakh region do not face any problem during the winter months.
Speaking at a high level meeting to take stock of the progress on
dispatch and stocking of essential commodities in Leh and Kargil districts, the
Minister said that since the region remains land locked for about 6 months
during the winter, so extra caution is required for building adequate stocks
there. He said that laxity in this regard will be viewed seriously. He called
for dispatching good quality Food grains adding that there should be no
compromise on the quality of essentials commodities. He asked the heads of
various departments to coordinate with the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir in
case they feel any difficulty in dispatching the stocks to Leh & Kargil.
The Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Rigzin Jora, and the
Minister for Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution, Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon
were also present in the meeting.
The meeting was also attended by the Commissioner/Secretary, PDD,
Mr. Sudhanshu Panday, Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Mr. Ajaz Iqbal,
Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mr. Asgar Samoon, Principal Chief Conservator
of Forests, Mr. Vinod Ranjan, Director
Food & Supplies, Kashmir Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Transport Commissioner, Mr.
Mehraj-ud-din Kakroo, Chief Engineer, R&B, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed, Chief
Engineer PDD, Kashmir, Mr. Muzaffar Matoo, District Commissioners of Srinagar,
Kargil and Leh districts, heads of various departments and representatives of
Finance & Planning & Development .
It was informed in the meeting that against a target of 70,000 qts
of Atta, about 69000 qts have been stocked in the Kargil district
upto October, 8 this year. Similarly, against a target of 53000 qts of
Rice, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has dispatched about 68,250 qts
whereas, against the target of 7500 qts of Sugar, about 12785 qts have been
stocked in the district during the same period. The Hindustan Petroleum Gas
Agency and the Kargil Indane Gas Agency have stocked 1.10 lakh gas cylinders
against the target of 2 lakh cylinders in Kargil district. About 80% of the for
stocking Motor spirit, kerosene oil and High Speed Diesel have also been
stocked whereas forest department has completed the stocking target of Firewood
and sawn timber in the district. The PWD, SICOP, PDC have also stocked adequate
quantity of key construction material which is close to the assigned target.
While reviewing the stock position of essential commodities in Leh
district, it was informed that FCI has stocked 84000 qts of Rice, 24,372 qts of
wheat and 7,900 qts of sugar in the district uptodate.
The PWD, HPC, Sheep Husbandry and Power Development departments
have stocked all the key material over and above the target quantity, the
meeting was informed. HPC, Leh has received about 1.28 lakh filled gas cylinder
against the target of 1.20 lakh cylinder, the meeting was informed. About 11000
tuck trips to Kargil and 13500 truck trips to Leh have been conducted to stock
the essential commodities so far. It was observed that the over all stock
building position in both the district is satisfactory.
Prasad
for perspective planning in infrastructural development for JKP
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11: Director General of Police (DGP), Mr. Ashok
Prasad today called for perspective planning in infrastructural development
keeping in view the future requirements of the police Organization. He said that
holistic plan has to be envisaged for police housing and other related
requirements of the Organization.
Mr.
Prasad was visiting district Samba and Kathua in Jammu Division today to
commission mmodation at Changrahan and Nud in the twin districts. The works
have been executed by Jammu and Kashmir Police Housing Corporation (PHC) and
Police Construction Division (PCD) under the modernisation, alternate
accommodation programme of the Organization.
Commissioning the buildings, Mr. Prasad said that the works have
been carried out to enhance building infrastructure, and to provide better
living facilities to the personnel. He said that under the scheme various
construction works were taken in hand in every district of the State. Special
focus is being paid to meet the latest requirements of jawans and officers
working in different areas of the State, said the DGP.
DGP stressed upon the officers and engineers, who were
accompanying him along with the Additional Directors General of Police, Mr. K.
Rajendaa Kumar, Dr. Ram Lubhaya and Mr. S. P. Vaid, Managing Director, Police
Housing Corporation, Mr. Alok Puri that they should ensure utilization of
quality material in the construction of residential and office complexes. He
appreciated the work of Police Housing Corporation and engineers of Police
Construction Division for completing the works in the record period of time. He
also asked them to complete the other ongoing works which could suffice the
living facilities for the personnel working in these areas.
The ADGP
(Headquarters), Mr. S. P. Vaid and Managing Director (PHC), Mr. Alok Puri
apprised the DGP about the construction activities in the Division. They said
that hostel blocks at Nud have been completed by Police Construction Division
at a cost of Rs. 2.10 crores and are having mess-cum dinning hall, besides
other facilities for the inmates. Battalion headquarter consisting of
administrative block, stores building, quarter guard and accommodation for
officers has been executed by Police Housing Corporation at a cost of Rs. 2.70
crores, they added.
During the inspection of other under execution works in the
districts of Samba, Kathua and Jammu, the DGP discussed the drawing and other
related issues with the engineers of PHC and PCD. Executive Engineers, Mr. N.
D. Khawaja and Mr. Nissar Ahmad briefed the DGP about the progress made on the
construction of other works in these districts. They assured that the
construction works would be completed within the stipulated period and handed
over to the concerned units for utilization.
During
his visit the DGP was also accompanied by IGP, Jammu Zone, Mr. Dilbag Singh,
DIsGP, Mr. S. S. Khandrare, Mr. J. P. Singh, SSsP, Mr. Israr Ahmed Khan, Mr.
Prabath Singh and Mr. Atul Kumar Goel and other police officers.
Earlier, the DGP handed over a 24 Seater Mini Bus to Jammu Bar
Association at an impressive function held at High Court Complex Jammu. The Bus
has been procured by JKP for ferrying poor and aged witnesses, litigants from main
road to Court Complex. On the occasion the DGP said that JKP has procured the
Bus under its Civic Action Programme and it is endeavour of the Organization to
help the poor and needy people through the popular programme. He expressed hope
that it would prove beneficial for the needy people who have to visit Court
Complex as witnesses and litigants. President Jammu Bar Association, Mr. B. S.
Salathia extended his thanks and gratitude to the DGP for extending their help
to the poor and needy people.
Govt abreast
with the LPG problem: Akhoon
Consumers
having genuine documents to get refill without any difficulty
SRINAGAR
OCTOBER 11: In order to provide respite to the people of the State for getting
LPG without any inconvenience, the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public
Distribution (CA&PD), Transport Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon today convened a joint
meeting of the high level officers and representatives of Kashmir Traders and
Manufacturers Federation, (KTMF), Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry
(KCCI) and senior officers of Oil Companies functioning in the Valley.
The
meeting discussed threadbare pros and cons of the policy which came into force
from September 14, 2012 due to which the people of the State like other parts
of the country were confronted with inconvenience in getting domestic LPG.
Speaking
on the occasion, the Minister said that the State government has already taken
up the matter with the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas for
enhancing the cap of subsidized gas cylinders in the State in view of its tough
geographical and topographical conditions. He said that the State government
has taken the issue seriously and holds frequent meetings at various levels to
find out any solution.
The
Minister said that the unblocking of the genuine consumers has been started in
the State and accordingly the Oil Companies have restored distribution and supply
of the LPG in the City. He said
that HPL is distributing 18 truck- loads of Gas in Srinagar City daily while as
IOC and Bharat Petroleum Corporation are distributing 5 truck loads and 4 truck
loads respectively in the Srinagar city daily. The process will remain in
operation till 17th October
in the first instance.
The
representatives of KTMF and KCCI suggested some remedial measures to ease the
problems of the people. The Minister assured the meeting that the suggestions
and demands put forth by the representative shall be taken up with the higher
authorities.
Besides,
Secretary CA&PD Mr. Muhammad Abbas Dar, Director CA&PD Mir Mushtaq
Ahmad, Senior Sales Manager, Oil Companies Mr. Haroon Hamid, from Civil Society
Shakel Kalander, President, KTF, Jan Muhammad Koul, President KTUF Muhammad
Sadiq Baqal, and veteran journalist Imdad Saqi attended the meeting.
Gandhi
College lifts Yousuf Memorial Cricket Cup for 3rd time
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11:- The Principal, staff and the students of
the Gandhi College want to place on record their appreciation for the
department of Physical Education especially Mr. Parvez Ahmad Motta, Prof Shabir
Ahmad Asime and cricket team of the college for winning the Prof. Yousuf
Memorial Cricket Tournament for the third consecutive year. The match was
played at Islamia College of Science and commerce on 9th of oct.2012. Batting first, the Gandhi College put a huge target
of 264 runs for the Govt. Degree College Shopian.
Abid Nabi batted superbly and scored 59 runs. Nazir Ahmad also
contributed valuable runs. Chasing the target, the Govt. Degree College Shopian
could manage only 200 runs and loss the match by a margin of 64 runs. The
Principal of the Gandhi College has assured full co-operation to the department
of physical education in promoting and inculcating sports mom ship spirit among
the students of the College and wish them a grand success in the coming events.
25th batch of Hajj pilgrims leave for Madina
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER
11: The 25th batch of 270 Hajj pilgrims comprising of 158 male and 112 female pilgrims left for Madina Munawara this morning.
Including the Hajj pilgrims of the 25th batch, 8908 Hajj pilgrims comprising of 5217
male and 3691 female besides three infant pilgrims have left for Madina from
Srinagar International Airport till date through 33 flights.
On the occasion, officers from State Hajj Committee, Airport Authority and
District Administration Budgam were present to see off the Hajj pilgrims.
Distinguished
voluntary services award presented to Mir
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11: Distinguished
voluntary services award was presented by VHAI New Delhi to A.M. Mir (IAS
Retd), Executive Director J&K VHA by Dr. B.S. Garg, President, Voluntary
Health Association of India for his exceptional contribution to “VHAI’s Mission
of Making Health a Reality for the People of India”. The award was presented to
Mir on the 38th Annual General Body Meeting of VHAI held in New Delhi. VHAI is
a federation of 27 State Voluntary Health Associations, linking together more
than 4500 health care institutions and grass-root level community health
programmes spread across the country.
The
primary objective of VHAI is to make health a reality for the people of India,
by promoting community health, social justice and distribution of health
services in India. VHAI is celebrating its 40th year of service to the nation this year. Earlier, Mir was awarded
“Sanjay Gosh Award” by HE The Vice-President of India at India Habitat Centre,
New Delhi in recognition of the excellent work done by him and his team in the
field of community health.
CEO ERA
for faster completion of Remaining Bridge projects
11
bridges already completed, work on 11 in progress
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11: Chief
Executive Officer, Jammu and Kashmir Economic Reconstruction Agency (J&KERA),
Mr. Saurabh Bhagat during his day long site inspection of bridge projects being
executed by agency under Transport sector of its ongoing Asian Development Bank
(ADB) funded Multisector
Project for Infrastructure Rehabilitation (MPIR)
today directed engineers and consultants to ensure the completion of work on
remaining bridge sub-projects in Kashmir division before the onset of winter
season.
Director Transport, Mr. O.K Chadgal informed CEO ERA that under bridge component
of ADB funded MPIR, J&K ERA had taken up work on construction of 22 bridges in
Kashmir out of which work on 11 bridges has already been completed while as
work on remaining 11 bridges is underway. Chadgal said agency has so far spent
Rs 51.36 crores on construction of these bridges.
During his site visit CEO ERA inspected progress of work on Sonwani Bridge over
Pohru nallah in Kupwara and directed contractor and engineers working on the
project to further accelerate pace of work on bridge to ensure that bridge is
thrown open for traffic at earliest. He also inspected progress of work on
Kunzer-Chanapora and Kanihama in Baramulla and Padshahi bagh bridge in
Srinagar.
He directed contractors to deploy more machinery and labour on site and
instructed engineers and consultants to resolve technical matters regarding the
project on war footing to ensure completion of these bridges before the onset
of winter season in Kashmir.
CEO ERA also gave instructions for imposing of penalties against non-performing
contractors.
J&K ERA has also taken up construction of two bridges in Ladakh division, Tharmsu-Pushkum in Kargil
and Urbis bridge in Leh. These bridges are to be constructed with the total
cost of Rs 5.28 crores.
Most of these bridges are in remote areas of Kashmir division and have been
taken up an aim to providing people living in these far flung areas with all
weather connectivity, improved access to markets, health and educational
facilities.
CM condoles
demises of Main Alftaf’s Mother
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11:- Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah has condoled the sad demise of
Mother of Main Altaf Ahmad, Minister for Forests.
In a condolence message issued here, the Chief Minister has
expressed solidarity with the bereaved family. He also conveyed his sympathy
and prayed for peace to the departed soul.
Appeals
to follow the teachings of the Sufis
SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11: Highlighting the role played by the Sufis in
bringing forward the message of Islam, the Minister for Rural Development,
Panchayati Raj, Law and Justice Mr. Ali Muhammad Sagar today said that their
teachings are more relevant in the present days.
The
Minister was speaking after releasing a book on the life and works of Hazrat
Sayed Bahudin Naqashband(RA) written by Mr. Bashir Ahmad and published by the
Research and Publication Wing of Naqashband Institute Jammu and Kashmir,
Srinagar at an impressive function held at the Amar Singh College here today.
The function
was attended by several prominent religious scholars, intellectuals and people
from different walks of life.
Mr. Sagar
said that the message of Sufis has become more relevant nowadays and the need
of the hour is to follow the same in order to live a contended and peaceful
living and co-existence. He said that Sufis have always preached the concept of
mutual co-existence and adherence to the religious strictures.
While referring to the historical role of Hazrat Syed Bahudin
Naqashband, the Minister said that he has by his exemplary role laid the
foundation of an order which has been serving as a beacon light to the people
since centuries and will also continue to guide the posterity. He also called
upon the younger generation to follow the teachings of the great Islamic
scholar
The author presented a paper on the life and teachings of Hazrat
Syed Bahudin Naqashband whereby he gave an overview of the historical role of
the great scholar in different facts of life.
29th
Sub-Junior (Boys) and 14th Mini
(Girls) National Handball Championship 2012 concludes
Govt.
committed to promote sports culture in State: Lone
Chib
appeals youth to participate in sports
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11:- Speaker
of J&K Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone today said that the
sportsmen of J&K State have always shown their excellent performance across
the globe and have proven their potential and talent by participating in
various sports events at national and at international level.
The
Speaker was addressing a galaxy of sports lovers and participants at concluding
function of 29th Sub-Junior (Boys) and 14th Mini (Girls) National handball Championship 2012 which commenced
from 6th of this
month and concluded today at Sheri-Kashmir Indoor Sports Complex, Srinagar.
The
championship was organized by J&K Handball Association under the aegis of
Handball Federation of India & J&K State Sports Council.
On the
occasion, Speaker J&K Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone was the
Chief Guest while as Minister for Medical Education and Youth Services &
Sports, Mr. R .S. Chib attended the function as Guest of Honour.
Mr. Lone
highly appreciated the efforts of organizers for their effort in holding such
events in valley. He also said that government is committed to promote sports
culture in the State.
Mr. Lone
also appreciated the players who had come from other states of the country and
participated in the championship with full zeal and enthusiasm.
Mr. Lone
recalled the contribution of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah for constructing Indoor
Stadium in Srinagar and urged upon the government to renovate the Stadium for
the betterment of sports sector
Mr. Chib
also spoke on the occasion and applauded all participants for performing their
best talent in the National Handball Championship in the valley. He appealed
youth to participate in sports with positive approach.
Mr. Chib
expressed his gratitude to the Handball Federation of India and J&K
Handball Association for organizing such big event in Indoor Stadium Srinagar
after a long gap of two decades.
The final
match of 29th Sub-Junior (Boys) was played between teams of J&K and Delhi
which was won by J&K team. The final match of 14th Mini (Girls) was played between teams of J&K and Haryana which
was won by J&K team.
Director
YSS, Mr. J.P Sing, S.S.P Srinagar, Mr. Ashiq Bukhari, Secretary Handball
Federation of India, Dr S.M Bali, Secretary J&K Handball Association, Mr.
Aswani Kumar Raina, Participants and a galaxy of sports lovers were present on
the occasion.
The
function concluded with a prize distribution ceremony in which trophies and
medals were distributed among all the participants.
MLA Habbakadal chairs officers meeting,
took stock of public utility
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11: The Chairman, Jammu and Kashmir State Commission for Women and
Member Legislative Assembly Habbakadal Ms Shamim Firdous today presided over a
meeting of officers of various departments here today. The meeting was convened
to take stock of various public utility issues pertaining to Habbakadal
constituency.
Ms
Firdous impressed upon the officers to accelerate the pace of works being
executed at various places of the constituency which include construction of
bridges, schools, drains and public facilitation centers.
Commissioner,
Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Joint Director, Planning/CPO, Srinagar,
Superintending Engineer, PWD, (CRP)/City Drainage besides Executive Engineers
of Right and Left River Divisions and Naib Tehsildar participated in the
meeting.
Ministers, Legislators express
condolence over the demise of Mian Altaf’s mother
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11: All the cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State, Advisors to Chief Minister,
Legislators and prominent political leaders have expressed their grief over the
death of mother of Mian Altaf Ahmad, Minister for Forests and Environment.
In their
separate condolence messages, the leaders have prayed for the eternal peace of
the departed soul and expressed sympathies with the bereaved family.
Mother of Forest Minister left for
heavenly abode
SRINAGAR,
OCTOBER 11: Nimaz-i-Jinaza of the wife of Mian Bashir Ahmad Kiyanvi and mother
of Minister for Forests and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmad, who left for
heavenly abode today, will be held at Baba Nagri Wangat Kangan on October 12,
2012 at 2.30 p.m. after Friday prayers.
Special LPG relief
package in offing
‘Govt contemplating
increasing subsidy cap to 9 cylinders’
Civil Society members,
Traders unions call on Omar, Akhoon
Srinagar, Oct 11 (VOS): Waking up to the graveness of the LPG
crisis in the state, the Jammu and Kashmir Government is contemplating a relief
package for the subscribers of cooking gas in the state, aimed at raising the
subsidy cap on LPG.
Reliable sources told VOS
that the the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called a high level meeting of
concerned ministers and officers on Monday to discuss the LPG crisis and
possibilities of increasing the subsidy cap on LPG cylinders to the valley
consumers. The meeting is also expected to be attended by representatives of
different oil companies supplying gas to consumers in the valley.
“The meeting will be
attended by Finance Minister, Ab Rahim Rather, CAPD minister Qamar Ali Akhoon,
Chief Secretary, Madhav Lal, Commissioner Secretary Finance department,
Commissioner Secretary Food and supplies department apart from various other
officials from different oil companies and other departments in the state
government”, the sources said.
The government, according
to sources, is working out the financial implications of increasing the cap on
the subsidy on cooking gas from existing 6 cylinders as provided by the GoI.
“The government may most
probably raise the cap to 9 cylinders a year, with the state bearing the
expenditure on additional 3 cylinders out of its own sources”, the sources
added.
The issue of easing the
Registration norms is also expected to be discussed in the meeting, with the
CAPD department being involved in identifying and enumerating the numbers of
LPG consumers in the state.
Meanwhile,
representative from the Kashmir Traders United Front (KTUF) met the Chief
Minister at his residence on Wednesday evening with the demand to increase the
subsidy cap to 12 cylinders and easing of the registration procedures for the
valley consumers.
The delegation headed by
Mohammad Sadiq Bazal also included Jan Mohammad Koul, Zahoor Ahmand Badshah and
Mushtaq Darial.
The KTUF delegation
members told VOS that the Chief Minister admitted that the new system is trouble
some for common people and the government is contemplating certain measures to
address the issue. He had also asked the delegation to meet the CAPD minister
Qamar Ali Akhoon to hold further discussions.
A delegation of the
civil society members met Qamar Ali Akhoon today to discuss the measures needed
to provide relief to consumers of the state. The delegation members included
Shakeel Qalander, Imdad Saqi, M Yasin Khan apart from the members of KTUF.
Comr Secy Food &
Supplies, Director Food & Supplies, Sales Incharge Hindustan Petroleum
Haroon Hamid , Indian Oil Corporation representative Parvez Ahmad among others
also attended the meeting.
According to sources
privy to the meeting issues relating to increase in LPG cap, registration
procedures for new consumers and transfer of existing connections were
discussed in the meeting.
CAPD minister, Qamar Ali
Akhoon, according to KTUF members, said the government will devise an
alternative mechanism to solve the problems at the earliest and steps will be
taken to redress grievances of the people of the state in near future. (VOS)
Allegations of
encroachment on state land against Taj
‘Will resign if proved;
Shah trying to become a hero through negative publicity’
Srinagar, Oct 11 (VOS): Chaos erupted in the State Legislative
Council on Thursday here when allegations of illegal encroachment of state land
were leveled against the PHE and Flood Minister Taj Mohiuddin by Panther’s
Party MLC Syed Rafiq Shah.
According to VOS, on the
last day of the Legislative Council Autumn Session, the house witnessed the
dramatic uproar when Syed Rafiq Shah of Panther’s Party waved documents in the
house allegedly implicating Taj of being in illegal possession of 14 kanal land
in district Shopain. Shah said the case had been previously investigated but no
action had been taken against the Minister.
Shah, in his question on
the floor of house, asked whether any Minister was in illegal possession of
State land in district Shopain and what steps had been taken to vacate the
illegal occupant, if any. In reply, forest Minister Main Altaf said that no
such report is with the authority and he has directed the forest officers to
investigate the matter.
Shah reacted sharply
showing the documents from government record mentioning Taj being in illegal
possession of the 14 kanal land. “These are official documents. I’ve enough
evidence that Taj is illegal occupant of State land”, said an agitated Shah.
“If politicians and
Miniters would engage them selves in illegal activities what could be expected
from the common people”, he questioned.
He said that if the
shepherd goes on forest land to grass the sheep PSA is slapped on him. “If
politicians perform such illegal activities what would be the fate of the
State”, Shah added.
Shah distributed the
copies of those documents which he was holding in hand, among the present
members of the house including Chairman of Council, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Main
Altaf and Raman Balla. Shah demanded the establishment of the House Committee
to get the matter thoroughly investigated.
Main Altaf opposed the
demand of Shah for establishment of House Committee. “Now the documents are
with me I’ll get the case investigated”, said Altaf.
MLC Khalid Najeeb
Shuharwardy stood up from his seat in support of Altaf and said that the
concerned Minister should be given time to get matter investigated and if the
that investigation didn’t satisfy Shah, House Committee could be constituted.
He said that these were allegations and government should be given time to
bring the facts to public..
Ali Mohammad Sagar also
supported the opinion of Altaf and said that Altaf has given reasonable reply
to the query.
According to VOS
reporter Bilal Furqani, MLA PDP and health education minister exchanged heated
words in the house when Chib said that there should be no objection if
department wanted to verify the facts again.
Murtaza reacted sharply
saying Chib shouldn’t have intervened if concerned minister is present in the
house.
Meanwhile, Shah stood
from his seat and said “Taj is an honest person and no one should cast doubt on
his honesty but apprehensions are there that the record may be forged”. Murtaza
also supported the view of Shah and said that if the case has been verified
earlier, it is better now to constitute the House Committee. After hearing the
view and arguments from every speaker on the matter in the house, Chairman of
Council Amrit Mahotra reserved his decision.
Meanwhile, Minister for
PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Taj Mohiuddin while calling the allegations
against him baseless, said the MLC Rafiq Shah was trying to become a hero by
getting publicity through negative means.
“I will tender
resignation from the ministry if the allegations are proved against me. Shah
has some personal grudge against me for which he is targeting me. I had asked
him to move out of a board meeting after he resorted to hooliganism and that is
why he is leveling false allegations against me”, Taj told VOS.
He said that he will
move a privilege motion against Shah in the ensuing Budget Session. “The land
is my proprietary land. I have records of the land and I own it since 1970.
Forest land is far away from my land. 12 kanals of the land have been
transferred to my name through Roshni Act. The case has been rejected by the
Accountability Commission in 2004,” he added.
Meanwhile, Minister
for Forests, Mian Altaf Ahmad while replying to Shah’s question said that
as per the revenue authorities, no illegal possession of forest land by any
sitting minister has been established so far in the Sadev Forests, adding that
forest department has been directed to re-verify the matter. (VOS)
KEA reiterates Kashmir
Bandh call on Oct 12
Civil society groups,
trade Unions, Bar support call
Srinagar, Oct. 11 (VOS): Appealing people to come on streets to
protest against the State Government, Kashmir Economics Alliance (KEA) has
reiterated its call for Kashmir Bandh on Friday to press for demand in increase
in LPG subsidy cap.
Civil Society groups,
various employees unions and Kashmir Bar Association have supported the call
for ‘Kashmir Bandh’. “The Bar Association is also going to contact the other
social organizations/civil societies in this regard for taking future course of
action. As such all the members of the Bar Association are requested to abstain
from work on 12.10.2012 in High court as well as in the courts subordinates to
it”, said the HCBA spokesperson.
According to VOS, to
express concern over the decision of the State Government against the LPG cap,
KEA has appealed the people to protest on streets. Kashmir Bar Association has
also decided to boycott the court proceedings on Monday as a mark of protest in
support of KEA call.
Pertinently, Opposition parties had also raised the issue of LPG cap in the State Legislative Assembly on October 1. Both ruling and opposition parties had spoken over the issue expressing concern on the floor of house.
Pertinently, Opposition parties had also raised the issue of LPG cap in the State Legislative Assembly on October 1. Both ruling and opposition parties had spoken over the issue expressing concern on the floor of house.
Government, on the floor
had assured that the issue would be taken up with the federal government.
However, Finance Minister Abdul Raheem Rather had refused to increase the LPG
cap on State’s exchequer.
Against diesel price hike and LPG cap Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and various civil and trade unions had observed protest demonstration against the State Government respectively. (VOS)
Against diesel price hike and LPG cap Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and various civil and trade unions had observed protest demonstration against the State Government respectively. (VOS)
Div Com reviews
developmental scenario of Kupwara
“Have increased storage
capacity of LPG”
Srinagar, Oct 11 (VOS): Divisional Commissioner Kashmir,
Asghar Samoon today reviewed the developmental scenario apart from inspecting
the electoral rolls of the district in a high level meeting convened at the
Deputy Commisioner Kupwara’s office.
The Deputy Commissioner
Kupwara, Sarmad Hafeez presented the developmental scenario in the district
through a power point presentation during the meeting.
As election observer, he
took detailed inspection of the electoral rolls 2013 of the district, sources
told VOS.
The meeting was also
attended by revenue officials and heads of various departments in the district.
While taking stock of
the electoral rolls, the divisional commissioner directed concerned officials
to ensure speedy distribution of Election Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) in the
district.
While taking stock of
developmental works, he asked engineers and other HODs to work with greater
zeal to ensure that development every corner of backward areas.
Speaking on the
occasion, the Divisional Commissioner said the government is trying to ensure
availability of cooking gas to people. He said the government has enhanced its
storage capacity to 2 lakh from 1 lakh cylinders keeping in view the ensuing
winter season.
According to sources,
the Div Com expressed satisfaction over the overall developmental scenario of
the district. (VOS)
Tarigami for fulfilling
demands of Electric Employees
Srinagar, Oct 11: State Secretary CPI (M) and MLA Mohammad
Yousuf Tarigami has called upon the government to engage leaders of Electrical
Employees Union in result oriented talks to address their genuine grievances.
“Several problems may
crop up in the wake of unbundling of the department, which need to be taken
care of in a proactive manner in consultation with employees’ leaders”, he said
in a statement adding that all the stakeholders have to be taken on board while
introducing reforms in the system.
Tarigami said that the
issues of health insurance, amendment in service rules, defining working hours,
etc constitute genuine demands of the electrical employees, which the
government should look into with magnanimous and sympathetic mindset.
He said accommodation
and flexibility should be made benchmark in the parleys to avoid any kind of
prolonged confrontation, saying that rigidity on either said will only
complicate issues much to the discomfiture of consumers. He said the government
should always address the genuine concerns of its employees on priority as it
is they which execute the policies and programmes of the government at the
grassroots level.
3 Day National Workshop
at KU to Deliberate on Measures for Urban Earthquake Disaster Risk
Reduction
Srinagar, Oct 11: Kashmir University in collaboration
with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), New Delhi and the Ministry
of Earth Sciences, GOI is organizing a 3 Day National Workshop to deliberate on
measures for Urban Earthquake Disaster Risk reduction in the Kashmir valley
from 13-15 October, 2012.
The Workshop is being
attended by a galaxy of eminent earth scientists and seismologists from various
institutes of the country. Prof. Talat Ahmad, Vice-Chancellor Kashmir
university said that the organization of the Workshop is in continuation to our
efforts on understanding the mechanism of the earthquake and other disasters in
Kashmir Himalayas so that we can suggest measures for reducing
the risk of the people to various disasters. Besides a number of technical
sessions and keynote speeches scheduled on various aspects of the Earthquakes,
the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) shall make a live demonstration of
the search and rescue operation during any disaster scheduled in campus which
shall be watched by more than 2000 participants from various schools, academia,
government agencies and the civil society.
Prof. Shakil A Romshoo,
Head Department of Earth Science said that the workshop shall build the
capacity of various segments of the society to build a safer and disaster
resilient state. The Workshop is being inaugurated by the Governor of J&K
State Shri N N Vohara and the Inaugural is being attended by Vice-Chairman,
NDMA, Members of the NDMA who all hold the Union Minister of State rank,
Secretary to Govt. of India, Ministry of Earth Sciences and a galaxy of eminent
Earth Scientists. In light of the high vulnerability of the state to
earthquakes, the Workshop shall deliberate on scientific findings and suggest a
roadmap for reducing the risk of the people and infrastructure, especially in
the urban centres of the state, to earthquake disaster. Prof. Nilofer Khan,
Dean Student’s Welfare said that the Workshop is targeted at all sections of
the society including school children and shall go a long way in protecting the
life and property of the people of this disaster vulnerable state.
Poor cell phone services
irk BSNL subscribers
Srinagar, Oct 11(VOS): Subscribers of the state owned Bharat
Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) have lambasted the corporation for poor cell phone
network coverage and voice quality in Kashmir valley.
Subscribers accused the BSNL proving a total flop show in Valley with customers of BSNL badly suffering in the valley.
Subscribers accused the BSNL proving a total flop show in Valley with customers of BSNL badly suffering in the valley.
For many years now, BSNL
is causing headache to people and their sevices frequently go down, said Shabir
Ahmad from Chanpora in south city.
“It seems BSNL service is almost close and customers are suffering badly. During outgoing calls, the warning signs of 'network busy and connection Error' appear repeatedly on the screen and call gets disconnected”, said Altaf Ahmad.
“It seems BSNL service is almost close and customers are suffering badly. During outgoing calls, the warning signs of 'network busy and connection Error' appear repeatedly on the screen and call gets disconnected”, said Altaf Ahmad.
“In Srinagar, it is
hardly possible that anyone would prefer BSNL services in future if it
continues with such worse services”, said Shakoor Ismail of Khanyar.
Bashir Faraaz from
Budgam said that the service is never up to level of satisfaction and the most unfortunate
thing is that subscribers never get customer care line to complaint. “Sometime,
if luckily you get connected with the customer care, however, their response is
hardly satisfactory”, said Faraaz.
“Due to such bad
services of the BSNL, common people are badly suffering while hindrances are
getting created up in day to day activities. People can never expect such a
worst service from BSNL”, said Rameez Maqsood of Shopain. “BSNL is fail on all
grounds to provide better network in remote areas of Shopian”, he added.
Reports of bad network
and service of BSNL were also reported from Kupwara, Baramulla, Sopore, Pulwama
and Anantnag.
VOS repeatedly attempted
to contact the BSNL authorities for comments but couldn’t be contacted. (VOS)
Authorities preparing
revised master plan 2000-2021: Tara Chand
Srinagar, Oct 11: Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand
today informed the house that the Jammu and Srinagar Development Authorities
which are responsible for preparation and implementation of Master plans have
undertaken exercise of revision of Master Plan 2000-2021.
Deputy Chief Minister
was replying to a short notice question by Murtaza Ahmed Khan in the
Legislative Council today. He said that in case of Jammu Development Authority
the draft master plan has been prepared by CEPT University, Ahmadabad and is
ready for inviting objections / suggestions of the general public. Same will be
finalized and notified in next six months, he said.
In case of Srinagar
Development Authority, Tara Chand said that the preparation of revised Master
Plan has been entrusted to SAI Consulting and Engineering Pvt. Limited,
Ahmadabad. The draft Master Plan is in initial stage. Basic data is being
collected for finalization of the draft Master Plan. Same is likely to be ready
for inviting public objections in next 10 months, he said.
Replying to another
short notice question by Dr. Bashir Ahmed Veeri and Naresh Kumar Gupta, the
Deputy Chief Minister informed the House that there are 11 Municipal
Institutions in district Anantnag including Municipal Council Anantnag.
Taj moves motion for
extension to joint Selection Committee
Srinagar, Oct 11: Minister for PHE, Irrigation and
Flood Control, Taj Mohi-ud-Din on behalf of Deputy Chief Minister moved a
motion for extension of time for presentation of the Report by the Joint Select
Committee constituted for the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Laws (Second
Amendment) Bill, 2010 (L.A. Bill No. 29 of 2010) and; the Jammu and Kashmir
Property Tax Board Bill 2011 (L.A. Bill No. 11 of 2011).
The motion was adopted
by voice vote upto the last day of the next session.
J&K Bank organises
awareness program in Ganderbal
Srinagar, Oct 11: J&K Bank conducted an awareness
programme for the District officials of Mini Secretariat Ganderbal at Town Hall
Ganderbal.
District Development
Commissioner Ganderbal Showkat Ahmad Mir was the Chief Guest at the function,
which was attended by Chief Planning Officer Mukhtar Ahmad Bazaz and the Bank’s
Zonal Head Bashir Ahmad Lone.
DDC Ganderbal
appreciated the Banks role for conducting such type of programmes for the
benefit of employees.
Speaking on the occasion
J & K Bank Zonal Head Central Bashir Ahmad Lone said, “J&K Bank
attaches great importance to the emotional equity that people of the state have
invested in it and is committed to empower the people for a better and brighter
tomorrow.”
Earlier, Cluster Head
Ganderbal Mohammad Amin Khan said that Cluster office Ganderbal conducted the
programme to educate the officials about various products and services of the
Bank so that also become part of Bank’s growth and success story.
Marketing team gave a
detailed presentation regarding the Deposits and Advance Schemes of the Bank,
which was followed by a Q/A session.
Cluster Head concluded
the programme by presenting a vote of thanks to the participants
Nayak Bagh residents
decry shortage of power, water supplies
Srinagar, Oct 11 (VOS): Expressing dissatisfaction over the
assurances of the authorities, inhabitants of Nayak Bagh area have demanded
quick and prompt redressal of their grievances with regard to scarcity of
electricity and water supplies.
According to a delegation from the area, inhabitants of the Abu Bakar Colony Nayak Bagh, Nowgam had approached the concern authorities with the grievances regarding bad road condition and unworthy transformer for 500 residential houses.
“We approached the authority and informed them in writing and verbally about the bad condition of the roads in our area but depite of assurances nothing has changed on the ground”, said a local resident Zahid Ahmad. “20 days back a team arrived here and after making on spot assessment assured the repairing of roads but their paper work have not progressed to implementation till date”, he added.
A single low capacity power transformer in locality is supplying power to 500 residential houses of the area. “It is often out of order and suddenly stops working, if in order” added Fordous Ahmad.
Residents have appealed the authorities to look into the matter at an earliest. VOS tried to contact the concern MLA of the constituency but there was no response after the bell rang. (VOS)
According to a delegation from the area, inhabitants of the Abu Bakar Colony Nayak Bagh, Nowgam had approached the concern authorities with the grievances regarding bad road condition and unworthy transformer for 500 residential houses.
“We approached the authority and informed them in writing and verbally about the bad condition of the roads in our area but depite of assurances nothing has changed on the ground”, said a local resident Zahid Ahmad. “20 days back a team arrived here and after making on spot assessment assured the repairing of roads but their paper work have not progressed to implementation till date”, he added.
A single low capacity power transformer in locality is supplying power to 500 residential houses of the area. “It is often out of order and suddenly stops working, if in order” added Fordous Ahmad.
Residents have appealed the authorities to look into the matter at an earliest. VOS tried to contact the concern MLA of the constituency but there was no response after the bell rang. (VOS)
Rather chairs CSC
meeting regarding casual laboureres
Srinagar, Oct 11: A meeting of the cabinet sub-committee
(CSC) constituted to go into the extent/magnitude of the problem relating to
casual workers i,e, financial, legal and administrative that may arise in
regularization of such temporary workers and to work out an
appropriate policy, was held here today under the chairmanship of the Minister
for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Abdul Rahim Rather.
The Minister for Rural
Development & Panchayati Raj, Ali Mohammad Sagar and the Minister for PHE,
Irrigation & Flood Control, Taj Mohi-ud-din were also present in the
meeting.
The concerned Officers
related to the issue also attended the meeting.
The matter was
threadbare examined and discussed. It was decided that further
information in this regard should be obtained urgently from the departments who
have not done it so far.
Another meeting of the
CSC will be held soon, said official sources.
Omar, Mir, Taj,
Rana,Tarigami, Hakim condole demise of Main Alftaf’s mother
Srinagar, Oct 11 (VOS): Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, Ministers Ghulam
Hassan Mir, Taj Mohi-ud-Din, CM’s Political Advisor Davendar Singh Rana and
MLAs M Y Tarigami and Hakim Mohammad Yasin have condoled the sad demise of
mother of Forest Minister Main Altaf Ahmad.
In a condolence message
issued here, the Chief Minister expressed solidarity with the bereaved family.
He also conveyed his sympathy and prayed for peace to the departed soul.
Meanwhile, VOS has
offered condolences with the bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace for
departed soul.
Sagar releases book on
Hazrat Sayed Bahudin Naqashband(RA)
Appeals to follow the
teachings of the Sufis
Srinagar, Oct 11 (VOS): Highlighting the role played by the Sufis in
bringing forward the message of Islam, the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati
Raj, Law and Justice Mr. Ali Muhammad Sagar today said that their teachings are
more relevant in the present days.
The Minister was
speaking after releasing a book on the life and works of Hazrat Sayed Bahudin
Naqashband(RA) written by Mr. Bashir Ahmad and published by the Research and
Publication Wing of Naqashband Institute Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar at an
impressive function held at the Amar Singh College here today.
The function was
attended by several prominent religious scholars, intellectuals and people from
different walks of life.
Mr. Sagar said that the
message of Sufis has become more relevant nowadays and the need of the hour is
to follow the same in order to live a contended and peaceful living and
co-existence. He said that Sufis have always preached the concept of mutual
co-existence and adherence to the religious strictures.
While referring to the
historical role of Hazrat Syed Bahudin Naqashband, the Minister said that he
has by his exemplary role laid the foundation of an order which has been
serving as a beacon light to the people since centuries and will also continue
to guide the posterity. He also called upon the younger generation to follow
the teachings of the great Islamic scholar
The author presented a
paper on the life and teachings of Hazrat Syed Bahudin Naqashband whereby he
gave an overview of the historical role of the great scholar in different facts
of life.
____________________________________________________
Advertisement
Manager:-Ishfaq Dar(9797761777)
No comments:
Post a Comment