SRINAGAR, FRIDAY, 24 ZUL QAADAH 1433 AH ; 12 OCTOBER 2012

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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 17^th 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 13^th  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 31^st 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 17^th 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 3^rd 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 9^th 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.

25^th batch of Hajj pilgrims leave for Madina

            SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 11: The 25^th 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 25^th 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 40^th 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 14^th 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 14^th Mini (Girls) National handball Championship 2012 which commenced from 6^th 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 14^th 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.

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)

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.

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.

“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)

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.

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