voice of srinagar

SRINAGAR, THURSDAY, 23 ZUL QAADAH 1433 AH ; 11 OCTOBER 2012

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Government to move ahead for holding BDC elections: Omar

‘Empowerment of to panchayats our determination’

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Wednesday told the Legislative Assembly that the process of empowerment of panchayats would continue and efforts by certain sections against this would be foiled. He said that elections to Block Development Councils (BDC) will be held as per schedule.

Intervening in the House over a point on reservation in Block Development Councils (BDC), the Chief Minister said that the raising of such issues at this point in time only amounts to derailing the process of constituting Block Councils and empowering panchayats in the State.

“We are determined to empower panchayats”, he told the House adding that government would not stop moving ahead in this direction even if anyone wishes so by raising noise in the House pretending to be well-wisher of SC/ST, etc. “You are not well-wisher of SC/ST. You are scared of panchayat empowerment. It is your weakness, that is why you did not raise any such questions when the elections to panchayats were held keeping reservation only for Panches and not for Sarpanches”, he told Harshdev Singh who raised the point in the House.

Cross LoC Traders Union submits Memorandum to Governor

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10 – A delegation of the Salamabad-Chakoti Traders Union, Srinagar, met Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today and presented to him a Memorandum of their demands.

The demands presented by the 8-member delegation led by Mr. Hilal Ahmad Turki, General Secretary of the Traders Union, included, interalia, increasing the number of cross LoC tradable goods, installation of full body truck X-ray scanners at the Trade Facilitation Centre, creation of additional storage infrastructure for goods and warehousing and cold storage facilities at Srinagar and Jammu for smooth supply of goods for cross LoC trade. Other demands projected by the Union included accommodation facilities for the traders at the Trade Facilitation Centre, provision of canteen, medicare and office space for the traders, provision of insurance cover of goods, telecommunication and banking facilities and periodical meetings of cross LoC traders.

The Governor gave a patient hearing to the delegation and informed them that he shall take up all these issues with the Union Home Minister during his forthcoming visit to the State.

The 8-member delegation, comprising Mr. Raja Zahoor Khan, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Bagoo, Mr. Rashid Ali Zargar, Mr. Rafiq Mir, Mr. Ishfaq Ahmad Dar, Mr. Sami Ullah and Mr. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, thanked the Governor for taking keen interest in the promotion of the cross LoC trade.

Kashmir Printers Association presents demands to Governor

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10 – A deputation of the Kashmir Printers Association, Srinagar, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, and presented to him a Memorandum of their demands.

The demands presented by the 5-member delegation led by Mr. Shabir Ahmed, President of the Association, included, interalia, taking measures for the growth of printing industry, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to the printing industrial units and effective implementation of the provision of 15% price preference for these units as per the industrial policy.

The Governor observed that the problems brought up by the Association would be taken up with the Minister for Commerce and Industry, J&K Government. The delegation comprised Mr. G. N. Bangroo, General Secretary of the Association, Mr. Irshad, Vice President, Mr. Surinder Singh, Chief Organiser and Mr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Secretary.

Ex-militants Association calls on Governor

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10 – A deputation of the J&K Human Welfare Association, Centre for Peace, Development of Humanity and Rehabilitation of ex-Militants, Srinagar, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today.

The Governor gave a sympathetic hearing to the deputation comprising Mr. Mohammad Farooq Khan, Chairman, Human Welfare Association, Mr. Nazir Ahmad Wani and Mr. Mohammad Sidiq Khan, Executive Members of the Association which urged, interalia, for various measures being taken to rehabilitate the ex-militants. The Governor agreed to take up the problems of this Association with the Chief Minister.

Govt endures to remove travel advisories for promotion of tourism: Nasir

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10- Minister of State for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani on Wednesday said that Plan Allocation for the Tourism Sector for the current financial year is Rs.111.31 core(Capital Component).

The Minister was replying to a question raised by Peerzada Mansoor Hussain in the House.

The Minister said that a delegation comprising of Minister In charge Tourism and Culture, Minister of State, Incharge Tourism & Culture, Commissioner/Secretary to Government, Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director, JKTDC visited USA and Canada. He said that Government incurred an expenditure of Rs.4.11 lakh at uniform rate on each individual member of the team on travel in economy class, accommodation and other expenses.

Mr Wani said that Ministry of Tourism held Road Shows in USA and Canada for promoting cooperation and Dialogue between the Tourism Authorities, Tourism & Hospitality, Trade and Opinion Makers of India and USA/Canada. He said, the Ministry of Tourism,, GOI considering USA and Canada as important markets for promoting various destinations and products of J&K State ,asked the State Government to participate in these Road Shows which were led by the Minister of State Tourism, GOI.

He said that realizing the importance of these markets for revival of the foreign tourist arrivals, a delegation led by the Minister Incharge, Tourism & Culture was deputed by the State Government to attend these road shows in USA and Canada.

The Minister said that such visits/progammes are expected to facilitate better understanding of tourism potential and improved security scenario and thus help in removal of the negative advisories issued by the Governments of various Countries in Europe and America. He said that process of removal of advisories has already begun with the Government of Germany.

Mr. Nazim-ud-Din Bhat, Mr. Abdul Rehman Veeri, Mr. Rafi Ahmed Mir, Mr. Ashok Kumar,Mr. Ashwani Kumar,Mr. Radhay Sham also raised questions about the development and lack of infrastructure in their respective constituencies and demanded that more steps should be taken to develop basic infrastructure for the attraction of more and more tourist to those tourists resorts situated in their respective constituencies.

The Minister said that presently twenty Tourism Development Authorities are working in the State and they are doing an excellent job in developing the basic infrastructure and beautify the areas.

Policy for Return of Youth; Govt. receives 1082 applications: Nasir

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10:- Minister of State for Home, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani today told the House that under the Govt.’s policy of return of youth, the government has received 1082 applications from the persons who intend to return under the aforesaid policy. He said out of these applications 218 cases have been recommended and the rest of the applications are being scrutinized and verified.

Replying to question by Mr. Murtaza Ahmed Khan, the Minister said the State Government in consultation with the Union Home Ministry has notified a policy for the return and rehabilitation of the youth, willing to return to J&K. He said 66 persons (some of them along with their families) have returned illegally via Nepal and other routes.

The Minister said that working group-I on “Confidence building measures across the segments of the people in the State” setup under the aegis of the Prime Minister’s Round Table Conference, had recommended that a definite policy/package is required to be formulated for the return and rehabilitation of the Jammu and Kashmir State subjects from across the border, who joined or were forced into militancy.

2736 candidates selected as constables under SRD in Police: Nasir

Minister of State for Home, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani in reply to a question by Mr. Bashir Ahmed Magray informed the House that under Special Recruitment Drive (SRD) in the Police department, 2736 candidates have been selected till date as constables in different places of Srinagar, Jammu, Budgam, Shopian, Reasi and Udhampur districts of the State.

He said the Special Recruitments Drives in the Police department are conducted in areas which are relatively less represented in the Police department. He said the conduct of these recruitment drives is a continuous process. He said since the conduct of Special Recruitments rallies is area specific, the candidates are informed by the District SPs through advertisements circulated in specified areas and announcements made through the public address system.

The Minister said a well defined procedure/criteria has been fixed for making these recruitments transparent. He said while undertaking such Special Recruitment drives, the primary requirements like age, qualification and physical standard of the candidate are checked and the candidates have to qualify the prescribed norms for entry into the Police Service.

In reply to another question by S. Dharam Bir Singh Oberoi, the Minister informed the House that in addition to the already installed CCTVs at different locations in Srinagar City, the Police department is contemplating to install more such CCTVs at other locations as a part of its electronic surveillance to ensure easy identification of law breakers.

In reply to another question by Mr. Subash Chander Gupta, he informed the House that PHE infrastructure regarding construction of sources for drinking water has already been laid up at 12 places of Hiranagar area and funds in part have been released. Syed Rafiq Shah raised supplementary to a question.

In reply to another question by Sheikh Ghulam Rasool, the Minister informed the House that recruitment of class IV is now made by the district and divisional Committees in pursuance of Government order.

The Minister said that the normal process of advertisement, interview etc has to be followed which takes time.

While replying to a question by Nizam-u-Din Khatana, Mr. Nasir said the post of Tehsildar Kokernag shall be filled up as and when the General Administration Department formally haven issues orders.

In reply to another question by Jahagir Hussain Mir, Mr. Nasir informed that in good number of cases, the compensation has been paid to the land owners, interested persons where final awards has been issued.

The Minister said that compensation is yet to be paid in cases where land acquisition proceedings are going or are under process at different stages. He said the progress of land acquisition is being monitored at various levels like District Collector, Divisional Commissioner, Financial Commissioner Revenue and at the Administrative level. He said earnest efforts are being made to finalize the acquisition proceedings in a time bound manner.

Chib outlines State’s hydel policy in the House

Minister of Medical Education Mr. R. S. Chib on behalf of Power Minister in reply to a question by Mr. Vijay Bakaya and Mr. Ajatshatru Singh informed the House that the mandate for development of Mini Hydel Projects (upto 2 MW) is with Science and Technology department.

He said that with regard to projects above 2 MW the Government has notified the “J&K Hydroelectric Projects Development Policy 2011” for development of projects from 2 to 100 MW in July 2011 replacing the State Hydel Policy of 2003.

The Minister said that during the last five years JKSPDC has advertised 18 projects under the J&K Hydroelectric Projects Development Policy 2011 for development out of which 15 are in the small hydel category (i.e upto 25 MW) and three are above 25 MW.

Minister of State for R&B, Mr. Javed Ahmed Dar in reply to a question by Master Noor Hussain informed the House that the Chief Minister has ordered enquiry for looking into the reasons for collapse of the vented causeway on river Devak at Utter Bani. The report has been received and is under examination of the Government, he said.

Govt making efforts to restore JK properties outside State: Ajaz

Minister of State for Hospitality and Protocol, Mr. Ajaz Ahmed Khan in reply to question by Dr. Bashir Ahmed Veeri informed the House that the Government is making all out efforts for the restoration of immovable properties outside the State.

Regarding creating separate department/agency on incentive basis who will release these properties from unauthorized occupants, the Minister said the there is no such proposal under the consideration of the Government.

Replying to another question by Syed Asgar Ali, Mr. Ajaz said that it is not a fact that class IV employees, plantation workers and work supervisors have been given the charge of village level workers and GRS in Marwah, Dachan and Kishtwar blocks.

However, he said, in respect of Warwan block one plantation watcher Mr. Ramzan has been assigned the duties of Panchayat Secretary due to the scarcity of staff.

Rs. 7.11 cr VAT recovered on IT related goods in 2011-12: Rather

Minister for Finance, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather today informed the House that Rs. 7.11 crore were recovered as VAT by the Commercial Taxes department on IT related goods during 2011-12. He said as per SRO-122 of 2012 IT related items have been incorporated as non-taxable items.

Replying to question by Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Mir, the Minister said that there is set procedure in vogue for verifying the functional status for all the industrial units, including IT related units with the Industries and Commerce department.

Replying to another question on behalf of Chief Minister in reply to a question by Haji Ali Mohammad Bhat, the Minister informed the House that the proposal for creation of new educational zone for Wakoora block is under consideration in the Education department.

The Minister said that presently offices of Block Developmental Officer and Agriculture Extension officer have been established at Wakoora.

Legislative Business in LC

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10:- Several Bills were taken up during the Legislative Council proceedings today.

Mr. Naresh Kumar Gupta moved “A Bill for the constitution of a Board for the better management of Shri Chandi Mata Machail Dham (Machail Yatra) for up gradation of facilities for holy pilgrimage and matters connected therewith right from Bhaderwah enroute Machial i.e Bhaderwah, Pul Doda, Premanagar, Thatri, Kishtwar, Gulabgrah, Padder etc. (L. C Private Members’ Bill No. 13 of 2012) for consideration and passing. The Bill was discussed and after thorough discussion the House considered and passed the Bill by voice vote.

As many as five other Bills were also moved for introduction in the House. After discussion and assurances by the concerned Ministers, four Bills were withdrawn while as one Bill moved by Mr. Murtaza Ahmad Khan for introduction pertaining to amending the Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Raj Act, 1989 (L.C Private Member’s Bill No. 15 of 2012) was introduced in the House.

No concrete road constructed in Afharwat area: Altaf

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: The Minister for Forests and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmed informed the House that the construction/ infrastructure development at different places wherever required in the forest areas are allowed to be taken up after the cases are properly processed under J&K Forest Conservation Act and sanctioned by the Competent Authority keeping all the aspects into consideration.

This was stated by the Minister while replying to a Call Attention Notice of Dr. Bashir Ahmad Veeri in Legislative Council today.

The Minister said the army has constructed a Defence Road (Gulmarg-Asha Road) from 0 to 13.25 KM for defence purpose which has been cleared properly by Department of forest under Forest Conservation Act, adding no concrete road has been constructed in Apharwat area as well as the other proposals are under process for installation of Air Defence Sensor and construction of Avalanche Retarders by High Altitude Welfare School (HAWS).

Mian Altaf said the hill station of Gulmarg has its own peculiar eco-system and environmental norms which are in place to take up any activity having an impact on the environment of area.

220 PRC cases disposed off in Surankote Tehsil: Nasir

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: Minister of State for Revenue and Tourism, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani informed the House that 220 PRC files stands disposed off during the period from June 15, 2012 to ending September 2012 against the total number of 220 cases received in Teshil Surankote.

The Minister was replying to a Calling Attention Notice moved by Murtaza Ahmad Khan in Legislative Council today.

Rs 5 lakh released to DC, Kathua for disbursement of ex-gratia: Aijaz Khan

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: Minister of State for Rural Development, Mr. Aijaz Ahmed Khan informed the House that four children of village Chingi Makwal and one lady of village Serimooni have died due to collapse of their residential houses by heavy rains / flash floods. He said in terms of SDRF norms, the next of kin of the deceased persons are entitled for ex-gratia relief of Rs. 1.50 lakhs each and for fully damaged houses @ Rs. 15000/- each, adding ex-gratia relief in case of deaths as well as damaged houses have also been sanctioned by the District Administration.

The Minister was replying to a Calling Attention Notice moved by Mr. Subash Chander Gupta in Legislative Council today.

Mr. Aijaz Said that the damages caused due to flash flood are under examination by the Interdisciplinary Committee constituted for the purpose. As soon as the final damage reports / 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 for payment of relief to the affected families, he added.

The Minister said an amount of Rs. 5 lakh has been released to each Deputy Commissioner of Jammu division while Deputy Commissioner, Kathua would be asked to expedite the disbursement of ex-gratia relief to the next of kin of deceased families.

165 posts created in PDD

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: The cabinet which met here under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah accorded sanction to the creation of 165 posts in different categories in Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Department including one post of Engineer-in-Chief in the pay band and grade pay 37400-67000+8900. The 165 posts in different categories have been created by corresponding reduction of 67 posts including 10 posts of Assistant Executive Engineers (Electrical), and 57 posts of Junior Engineer (Electrical) for restructuring and unbundling of J&K Power Development Department. With this arrangement, the sanctioned strength of the post of Chief Engineers has increased from 7 to 8, Superintendent Engineers from 21 to 43 and of Executive Engineers from 86 to 119.

The cabinet also approved transfer and posting of following officers.

Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Mr. M. Raju (IAS) has been asked to report to General Administrative Department for his further posting.

Ms Dilshada Khan, (KAS) has been transferred and posted as Member J&K Service Selection Board.

Chief Executive Officer JAKEGA Mr. Fida Hussain (KAS) has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner Kargil.

Sports events provides platform to youth to exhibit their talent: Chib

BUDGAM OCTOBER, 10:- Minister for Medical Education and Youth Services & Sports, Mr. R.S.Chib today said that Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah is interested and enthusiastic for the upliftment of sports activities in J&K State and government is committed to boost up the sports activities in all parts of the State.

The Minister was addressing a function after witnessing a good will T-20 cricket match played between teams of Budgam XI and Airforce XI at Sports Stadium Budgam today.

While appreciating the efforts of organizers for arranging such tournament Mr. Chib, said that such events besides bridging the gap between local youth and Air force personnel provide a sound platform for local youth to exhibit their talent and helps in making their way for higher sports opportunities at national and International levels.

Mr. Chib appreciated both the participating teams and large number of spectators present on the occasion and said this match has provided all of them to meet and interact with each other with positive thinking and approach.

Mr. Chib said sports is an imperative source for understanding bridging the gap between isolated communities.

Minister urged upon the players and sports lovers of valley to take part in such events with full zeal and enthusiasm so that it can be helpful for their all round development.

Mr. Chib suggested Air force authorities of Srinagar to organize a T-20 Cricket tournament in Budgam District in near future so that players from various parts of valley can participate in the event and exhibit their talent and potential.

The goodwill T-20 cricket match which was organized by Air force authorities Srinagar on the eve of Air Force day as a gesture of harmony and friendship. The match was won by Air Force team by 30 runs.

During prize distribution ceremony Minister besides, making announcement of giving Rs 20 thousands to the two players of each team distributed trophies and awards among both the teams. The man of the match award of Rs 4000 was given to Mustafa Bhat of Budgam XI, Best batsman award of Rs 3000 was give to Ahsan Ali of Budgam XI and best bowler was given to Goutam of Air Force team.

Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Ganai, Air Commodore, AOC Air force Station Srinagar, Mr. D. Chowdhry, Director Youth Services & Sports Mr. J. P Singh, Secretary Sports, Mr. Dilip Thusu, officers of Air Force and CRPF, participants and local people were present on the occasion.

14 ASOs of FSL placed as SOs

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: Government today placed 14 Assistant Scientific Officers (ASOs) of Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), J&K as Scientific Officers (SO) in their own pay and grade.

The officers who have been placed as Scientific Officers (SO) are Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, Mr. Hakeem Abdul Rashid, Mr. Shakeel Ahmad Wani, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Yaswi, Mr.Shah Ul Ahmad Kanth, Mr. Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, Mr. Altaf Ahmed, Ms. Masarat Jabeen, Mr. Rakesh Kumar Hangloo, Mr. Mool Raj, Mr. Rajinder Singh, Mr. Pawan Kumar Abrol, Mr. Imtiyaz Ahmad Malik and Mr. Masood Sadiq.

Slathia for using digital technology for showcasing handicrafts

Inaugurates II-phase of Kashmiri Craft Bazar

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: Minister for Industries and Commerce Mr. Surjit Singh Slathia today inaugurated II-phase of the Kashmiri Craft Bazar at the world famous tourist hub- Boulevard near the Dal Lake.

The II-phase of the Craft Bazar has been organized by the Directorate of Handicrafts, J&K, keeping in view the tremendous response from the visitors who thronged the venue to buy genuine handicraft goods at reasonable price. The Crafts Bazar will continue for 13 days.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Slathia underscored the need for providing suitable platform to the artisans so that they can exhibit as well as sell their goods directly to the customers without any exploitation by the middlemen. He said this is the basic objective to organize exhibitions and craft Bazars in and outside the state adding that there is a great need to explore new marketing channels to give big boost to the sale of world famous handicrafts in the National and International Markets. “We live in a digitally networked world now and must make good use of this most modern scientific invention for showcasing our rich and rare handicrafts which are known for its intricacy and purity in the world market”, Mr. Slathia added. He said that the use of internet would also be beneficial for this purpose.

Mr. Slathia went round all the 30 stalls set up by the artisans and interacted with them. He assured the artisans that government would explore all possibilities to improve their lot and promote handicrafts in a big way.

The Commissioner/Secretary Industries and Commerce Mr. Shantmanu, Director Handicrafts Jammu and Kashmir Mr. Muzaffar Hussain, Managing Director J&K SICOP Mr. R. L. Tikoo, Managing Director JKI Mr. Javed Iqbal, Managing Director J&K Cements Mr. R. K. Rajdhan, Secretary KVIC, S. Ravinder Singh, Managing Director JK Minerals Mr. V. K. Sharma, Director Geology and Mining Mr. Farooq Ahmad, MD SIDCO Mr. Mauzam and Director Handlooms Mr. D. R. Sharma were also present on the occasion.

Road connectivity in Rajpora constituency improved: Javid

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: The Minister of State for R&B, Mr. Javed Ahmed Dar while replying to a Call Attention Notice of Syed Bashir Ahmed said that that the total road length of Rajpora constituency is 283.72 kms.

The Minister said that Lassiduban-Bunkhah Bamnoo road has been metalled in 2010-11 adding that the Kralchek and Parraypora-Kanikoot road has been constructed.

He said that Arabal Nikar road has been restored during current financial year by way of WBM III in patches and the Hawal Uthmulla sector is being restored shortly.

The Minister said that the Dadoora-Babhar road has been completed by way of earth work, laying of RCC pipes, construction of 2 No. RCC culverts, R/Walls, providing and laying of GSB and WBM G-II. The remaining components of the work i.e. P/L of WBM G-III and 20 mm thick OGPC shall be taken up in the next financial year.

Proposal for enhancing remuneration of ReTs awaits FD concurrence: Taj

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: The Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din on behalf of Education Minister today informed the Legislative Assembly that the education department has submitted a proposal to Finance Department for the enhancement of salary of Rehaber-e-Taleem Teachers from Rs. 1500/2000 to Rs. 3000 /- per month w.e.f April, 2012 as per assurance given in the Budget Speech on March 5^th 2012 on the Floor of House.

Replying to a Call Attention Notice of Mr. M. Y. Tarigami regarding enhancement of remuneration of ReTs, the Minister said that the state Finance Department returned the proposal with observations that the education department should obtain agreement of Ministry of Human Resources Development with regard to 65% of Central share and Planning and Development Department to bear the balance expenditure of 35% for enhanced honorarium in the first instance.

He said that now the Planning and Development Departmnet has conveyed its agreement after which the proposal has been again submitted to Finance Department for its concurrence as per observation of Finance Department referred above. As soon as the clearance from Finance Department is receive, the proposal in the shape of memo will be submitted to the cabinet for its approval and orders will be issued in this regard.

Damage to crops duet o drought being assessed: Bhalla

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: The Minister for Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Mr. Raman Bhalla today informed the House that the concerned Deputy Commissioners have reported that damages have been caused to the Rabi crops, due to heavy rainfall at the time of harvesting. However, there were inadequate rains during sowing season of Kharief 2012 in some areas of erstwhile Doda District.

Replying to a calling Attention motion of Mr. M.S.Niaz, the Minister said that it is pertinent to mention here that the damages caused due to the heavy rains during harvest season are not covered for payment of relief to the affected farmers in terms of SDRF (State Disaster Response Fund) norms, as heavy rains are not included in the list of Notified Natural Calamities which are notified for payment of relief under SDRF norms by the Government of India.

However, losses due to un-precedented drought have taken place which are being assessed and the exact quantum of loss shall be worked out only after completion of Girdawari Kharief-2012 which has commenced from 1^st September 2012 and is scheduled to be completed by 15^th October 2012. As soon as the final damage report/requirement of funds is received, the matter will be taken up with the State Executive Committee for consideration of release of funds in terms of State Disaster Response Fund.

Extenstion Agency of Agriculture Department montoring the Paddy blast : Mir

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: The Minister for Agriculture, Mr. G.H.Mir today informed the House that in order to curb the incidence of paddy blast, the department has created awareness among the farmers through print and electronic media before and during the crop growing season. Besides, the department has kept the availability of requisite fungicides and power sprayers in all the districts of Kashmir Division to combat any eventuality of disease.

The Minister while replying to Calling Attention Notice by Peerzada Mansoor Hussain. The Minister said that Training camps were organized, where in pamphlets, brochures and technical guidance was provided to the farmers for adoption of preventive measures to control the disease.

The Minister said that the condition of paddy crop in district Anantnag remained excellent and a bumper crop is being harvested by the farmers in paddy areas of Shangus constituency, the crop condition has remained satisfactory during the different crop stages. However, in the last week, just before the crop harvesting stage, there was an incidence of paddy blast in villages of Ranipora, Khullchocher, Brah and Ahupasan which is being constantly monitored by the Extension Agency of the Department. The affected cropped area has been sprayed with the recommended fungicide in presence of Sarpanches of the area. The damage, shall be assessed by the Revenue Authorities at the time of Girdawari.

35 villages of Lolab affected by drought: Bhalla

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: As reported by the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Kharief crop has been damaged in Lolab Constituency during the year 2012 due to the drought and recent floods.

This was stated by the Minister for Revenue Mr. Raman Bhalla in reply to a calling attention notice of Abdul Haq Khan in Legislative Assembly today.

He said the joint survey has been conducted by the Revenue, Agriculture and Horticulture Departments to assess the losses which has caused to Kharief corps 2012. On the basis of preliminary assessment reports, 35 villages of Lolab constituency have been affected due to drought during Kharief 2012, out of which the damages to the two villages are to the extent of more than 50% and losses to the rest of the 33 villages are less than 50%.

He said two residential houses and 08 non-residential houses have also been damaged due to the recent floods and the land comprising of 51 kanals stands washed away.

Since the Girdawari Kharief-2012 has commenced from 1^st September 2012 and is scheduled to be completed by 15^th October 2012, the exact quantum of losses shall be worked out only after the completion of the said Girdawari.

Construction of Nallah Baleeri bridge on anvil: Javid

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: The construction of 70 meters span Bridge over Nallah Baleeni at Nagrota connecting Katal Batal has been sanctioned under NABARD Loan Assistance RIDF XV at a cost of Rs 306.43 lacs.

This was stated by the MOS for R&B Mr. Javed Ahmed Dar while replying a calling attention notice of Mr. Jugal Kishore in Legislative Assembly today.

The Minister said that the work was allotted which was not started by the contractor due to some technical reasons. He said that there is increase in discharge from 65000 cusecs to 87000 cusecs due to extraction of river bed material which resulted in the increase of bed slope and meandering of Nallah besides bearing capacity of the soil at foundation level was low varying from 10 M.T/Sqm to 12 MT/Sqm. Due to these reasons the span of the bridge has increased from 70 meters to 85 meters.

He said that the work has again been put to tenders and the same have been received. The process of allotment of contract shall be completed shortly.

45 members raise issues of public importance during zero hour in LA

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10- As many as 45 Members raised the issues of public importance in the House during the Zero Hour today.

Mr. Abdul Haq Khan and Engineer Rashid raised the issue of stray dogs in Lolab and Langate constituencies. They said the frequent dog bites has created panic among the people and urged the Government to take immediate steps to get rid of the problem. They also urged for arranging adequate anti-rabies vaccines in the Govt. Hospitals.

Mr. Abdul Majid Wani urged for starting the PG courses in Doda College for the facilities of local students for which the students are observing strike.

Hakim Mohammad Yasin demanded timely completion of power stations in his area to improve the overall power scenario.

Mr. M. Y. Tarigami drew the attention of the House towards the prolonged strike by the PDD employees in support of their demands. He urged the Government to talk to them and end the stalemate so that the power supply may not hamper.

Mr. Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo impressed upon the Government to implement the decisions of the DDB with regard to the creation of new health institutions and schools in his area.

Mr. Jugal Kishore raised the issue of large number of vacancies of teachers in newly established schools under SSA/RMSA as well as in regular schools in Nagrota Constituency. He urged the Government to fill up all the vacancies at the earliest to save the career of the students.

Mr. Ashok Kumar pleaded for regularization of youth engaged in forest department in Ramban district.

Mr. Feroz Khan urged for timely disbursement of SC/ST scholarships to the students.

Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta sought uninterrupted work on Wullar Barrage Project which was interrupted by some vested interests. He said Government should not succumb to the pressure of anti-national forces and ensure the construction of the project.

Mr. Harshdev Singh alleged that over 27,000 posts of teachers are lying vacant in the state which has hampered the functioning of schools and affected students community studies to majority of students. He urged the Government to fill up all the vacant posts of teachers on fast-track basis to overcome the paucity of teaching staff.

Mir Saifullah demanded creation of Development Council for the speedy development of Kupwara district.

Mr. Radhey Sham Sharma demanded special police recruitment drive for the youth of border areas of Rajouri.

Syed Basharat Bukhari urged for immediate cancellation of attachment orders of teachers in his area who have been deployed to some other areas.

Ms. Bimla Luthra maintained that some important equipments in GMC, Jammu are out of order resulting in difficulties to the patients. She sought immediate repair of such equipments in the interest of patient care.

Peerzada Mansoor Hussain raised the issue of some youth of the Valley who are on dharna for some time and urged the Government to resolve their issue.

Mr. Abdul Gaffar Sofi called for early completion of fruit mandi in his Constituency.

Mr. Vikar Rasool urged the Government to explore possibilities to develop tourist resorts in Ramban district.

Mr. Mohammad Sharief Niaz called for filling of all vacant posts of teachers in Doda district.

Mr. Ashwani Kumar demanded reservation of areas located along the Internationl Boarder in Bishnah tehsil on the pattern of ALC.

Mr. G.A.Mir urged for allowing the MLAs to utilize the CDF for repair of electric transformers in their respective areas on the analogy of MPLAD.

Ch. Mohammad Ramzan demanded strengthening of engineering wing of local bodies to ensure speedily development of towns in the Kashmir Valley.

Mr. Rafi Ahmed Mir sought compensation for the sufferers of wind storm in his area.

Mr. Jagdish Raj Spolia sought inquiry into construction of Degree College building at Basohli being executed by the NBCC. He alleged that work is incomplete and there is no proper sitting arrangements and other necessary facilities for the students in the College and administration must direct the concerned company to ensure all components of buildings for the facilities of the students.

Mr. G. M. Saroori demanded upgradation of power infrastructure to ensure overall power scenario in Doda district.

Mr. Abdul Rehman Veeri demanded proper rehabilitation of traders dealing with the business of bats on the national highway whose business activities got hampered due to road widening.

Mr. Nazir Ahmed Gurezi demanded special recruitment drive for early filling up of vacant posts under different categories in Gurez.

Mr. Durga Dass sought rationalization of funds under BADP in Hiranagar block.

Mr. Aijaz Jan demanded installation of CT Scan machine in District Hospital, Poonch at the earliest.

Mr. Ashok Khajuria drew the attention of House towards the LPG crisis and urged for streamlining the supply to the consumers.

Mr. Abdul Majid Wani demanded upgradation of schools in Doda district.

Syed Bashir Ahmed demanded bifurcation of some health institutions from Shopian to Pulwama in the public interest.

Dr. Shafi Ahmed sought compensation for the families whose houses were gutted in fire in his Constituency. He also demanded setting up of Fire Station at Khag.

Ms. Mehbooba Mufti sought action on the inquiry report of GB Pant hospital conducted by Dr. Showkat Zargar. She said all defaulters responsible for the negligent deaths of infants need to be punished to ensure safety of children.

Mr. Baldev Raj Sharma sought relaxation in registration of new guest houses which are coming up at Katra to accommodate the heavy rush of pilgrims.

Prof. Gharu Ram Bhagat demanded installation of photographs of Architect of Indian Constitution Dr. B. R. Ambedkar in the Assembly Lobby.

Ch. Zulfikar Ali demanded revival of posts for the new health institutions in his area.

Mr. Nizam-ud-Din Bhat demanded proper distribution of Kerosene Oil and its effective monitoring.

Mr. Krishan Chander Bhagat demanded installation of statue of former Minister and MLC, Yashpal Khjuria at Udhampur.

Mr. Charanjeet Singh urged for streamlining the process of paddy procurement in Kathua for the facilities of the farmers.

Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Ganai called for shifting of Government offices in the newly constructed buildings near Sopore.

Mr. Balwant Singh Mankotia demanded enhancement of remuneration of SPOs.

Mr. Mushtaq Shah demanded immediate repair of damaged electric transformers in his constituency.

Mr. Bharat Bushan demanded widening of Jammu-Akhnoor road to avoid frequent road accidents.

Mr. Yashpal Kundal demanded implementation of reservation policy for all categories of recruitment including ReT teachers.

House extends period of Select Committee, House Committee

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10- Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly today extended upto the last day of the next Session, the time for presentation of the Report of the House committee “to ascertain the factual position regarding the illegal encroachment of Wet Lands for its conversion for residential purposes in Srinagar, Baramulla and Bandipore districts and conversion of Agricultural and Kahcharai land for residential and commercial purposes with particular reference to Shalteng and its adjoining areas within 10 KM radius whether falling within the Administrative jurisdiction of Srinagar, Baramulla or Bandipore districts.

The House also extended upto the last day of the next session the time for presentation of the Report of the Select Committee on “The Jammu and Kashmir Prohibition of Conversion of Agricultural land for Non-Agricultural purposes Bill, 2011 (L. A. Bill No. 15 of 2011)”.

Committee on Estimates presents report

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10- Chairman, Committee on Estimates, Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan today presented in the House the Report of the Committee on the unprecedented neonatal/infant deaths in the G. B. Pant (Children) Hospital, Srinagar.

LA passes Water Resources Act

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10- Legislative Assembly today passed “A Bill to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010 (L.A. Bill No. 13 of 2012)”. The Bill was passed with voice vote without any amendment.

The Bill was moved by Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din, the other day.

Taj lays papers in LA

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10- Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din today laid on the Table of the House a copy of the Report of the Comptroller & Auditor General of India on District Jammu (Report No. 02 of 2012) for the year ended 31^st March, 2011. He also laid on the Table of the House a copy of 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). These papers were laid by the Minister on behalf of Finance Minister and Chief Minister respectively.

Providing better health care facilities priority of Govt: Sham

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10- The Minister for Health, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma today informed the Legislative Assembly that taking into consideration the paramount importance of healthcare, Government is making every possible effort to provide adequate number of doctors and para medical staff in the government hospitals all over the state including the Health Institutions in Beerwa constituency.

Replying to a Call Attention Notice of Dr. Mohammad Shafi, the Minister said that the vacancy position of Medical Officers are lien vacancies as the doctors occupying the posts are presently undergoing Registrar ships / Sr. Residencies / PG / Diploma courses in various Medical Colleges / Institutions within and outside the state, as and when the doctors after completion for their assignment reports back to this department will be posted at these institutions.

In the meanwhile the services at these institutions are being carried out by the doctors who have been engaged on contractual basis under NRHM, the Minister replied.

Procedure for issuing Kissan Credit Card simplified: Mir

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10- The Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir today informed the Legislative Assembly that steps have been initiated to streamline the process of Kissan Credit Card (KCC) distribution which includes instructions to Banks for issuing KCC on priority. To simplify the procedure, common application form for all Banks have been devised and distributed to all farmers.

JKP organizing Jashan-e-Dal, Marathon in Srinagar

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: As a part of its Civic Action Programme, Jammu and Police is organizing Jashan-e-Dal and Open Kashmir Marathon Shikara Race this month in summer capital. The events are expected to witness a large participation of youth in water sports and other activities.

This was disclosed by Inspector General of Police (IGP), Armed Kashmir, Mr. Rouf-ul-Hassan in a meeting held at Armed Police Headquarters this evening. The meeting was convened to discuss various arrangements with regard to the 3-day long festival.

Giving details the IGP said that the festival is being organised under the popular Civic Action programme and a large number of sportsperson will participate in the various events of water sports in world famous Dal Lake under the Zabarwan hills. He said that the Organization has been promoting water sports in the valley and for the purpose, three day long Jashan-e-Dal will be organized at Nehru Park from October 17 to 19. The Jashan would include various sports events like water polo, kayak & canoe, swimming, shikara race, dragon boat race, demb boat race, half marathon and open kashmir marathon shikara race and water skiing. The events include K-1. K-2, K-4, C-1, and C-4 in men, women ,junior/senior-500, 200 meters.

In swimming the evens include free style, brest stroke, back stroke, relay, long distance open. The winners of different events would be given cash prizes upto Rs. 1 lakh. The Jashan would also witness band display and special cultural items, he added.

The meeting discussed various arrangements including police bandubast, traffic, security in and around the venue, deployment of judges, and rescue arrangements. Various committees were constituted to make the arrangements for the festival. Commandant, IRP 2^nd, Mr Mohammad Yousuf Mir was nominated as nodal officer for the mega event.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Inspectors General of Police, Mr. T. Namgiya,l all Valley based Commandants of Armed/IRP Battalions, SP Traffic Kashmir, Mr Haseeb-u- Rehman and other police officers.

Procedure for issuing Kissan Credit Card simplified: Mir

Replying to a Call Attention Motion of Mr. Bharat Bushan, the Minister said that the validity of KCC varies from 3-5 years by different banks. This scheme has received wide acceptability amongst the farmers.

He said banks have been asked that the eligibility criteria prescribed under the revised KCC Scheme issued by RBI and relative guidelines of NABARD shall be compiled with in letter and spirit and no bank will refuse to issue KCC to any eligible beneficiary. He said that the branch managers will ensure that no stamp duty is charge on sanctioning of loan under KCC upto a limit of Rs. 25,000/- in terms of the SRO 289 dated 3-6-1980.

He said that district Jammu has 1,07,490 farming families of which, 69515 applications have been sponsored by Agriculture Department to revenue department for verification out of which 52603 applications have been verified by Revenue Department and 50468 applications duly verified by the Revenue department have been submitted to various commercial banks. He said that 10023 KCC have been sanctioned by Banks in Jammu district and 8797 KCC have been issued by Commercial Banks while 40445 KCC cases are pending for sanction in different banks.

24^th batch of Hajj pilgrims leave for Madina

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: The 24^th batch of 539 Hajj pilgrims comprising of 296 male and 243 female pilgrims left for Madina Munawara this morning.

Including the Hajj pilgrims of the 24^th batch, 8638 Hajj pilgrims comprising of 5059 male and 3579 female besides three infant pilgrims have left for Madina from Srinagar International Airport till date through 32 flights.

On the occasion, officers from State Hajj Committee, Airport Authority and District Administration Budgam were present to see off the Hajj pilgrims.

Rs. 156 Cr. utilized on road connectivity in North Kashmir

CEO, ERA inspects road projects

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: Under the multi sector project for infrastructure rehabilitation to augment the road connectivity, 9 major road projects involving road length of 160 kilometres have been taken up. An amount of Rs. 156 crores has subsequently been utilized for the inter district road connectivity in the districts of Baramulla, Kupwara and Bandipora.

This was given out during the inspection of various road projects being executed by J&K Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA) in the districts of Kupwara and Baramulla.

Chief Executive Officer, J&K ERA, Mr. Saurabh Bhagat during his inspection was told that work on 5 major road projects including Sangrama-Sopore-Kulangam road, Potkah-Pachar road, Sumbal-Markundal road, Watergam-Behrampora road and Singhpora-Kanihama road have been completed while work on Kralgund-Ashpora road and Handwara-Zachaldara road, Sopore-Bandipora and Shahdra-Kamalkote road is in progress.

Chief Executive Officer also interacted with the people of the area and assured them that better road connectivity shall be made available in these remote areas. He also urged the agencies and Engineers to expedite the developmental activities and ensure strict compliance to quality control parameters and project guidelines.

Sagar underscores the need for revisiting outdated laws

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Law Justice and Parliament Affairs Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has underscored the need for revisiting outdated laws so that there is improvement in running various institutions of justice and other social activities.

The Minister was speaking during the consultative committee meeting for various departments under his charge.

Minister of State for Rural Development, Law Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Khan, Legislators Mr. Nizam-ud-Din Bhat, Mr. Subash Chander Gupta, Aga Syed Ahmad, Mr. Balwant Singh Mankotia, Commissioner/Secretary Rural Development Mr. Farooq Ahmad Peer, Commissioner/Secretary Mr. B. A. Runiyal, Commissioner/Secretary Law Mr. G. H. Tantray, Director Rural Development Kashmir Mir Altaf Ahmad, Director Rural Sanitation Mr. Tuffail Matoo, and other senior officers of Law, Rural Development and Technical experts of IWMP were present on the occasion.

It was decided in the meeting that there is dire need of revisiting existing laws for the purpose of ensuring that these are found to be in the interest of public and covering all the affairs dealing with day-to-day needs of general public.

It was also given out that the State Litigation Policy already framed during the present government shall further be updated for ensuring expeditious disposal of cases and also ensuring minimal litigation between different parties or government. The up-gradation and creation of new courts was also discussed.

The meeting was told that the socio-economic census has already been completed and the draft publication will be made public after the approval from the Central government. The implementation aspects of various Centrally Sponsored Schemes like MGNREGA, IAY, TSC were also discussed threadbare in the meeting.

The meeting was also informed that Rs 253 crore has been kept as a budget supplement to the Panchayats of the state in addition to an amount of Rs 166 crore which has been released directly to the Panchayats for creation of infrastructural assets including Panchayat Ghars. It was also recommended that adequate reward would be given to those Sarpanchs, who will ensure the timely completion of these assets.

Sagar commends the role of department of posts inaugurates online service

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: Highlighting the role of the department of posts in making people living in different in accessible areas of the country to avail the facility of communicating with other parts, the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Law Justice and Parliament Affairs Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that they have been rendering yeoman’s role in providing the postal facilities since decades.

The Minister was speaking after inaugurating online services of postal department at the General Post Office Srinagar here today.

The Chief Post Master General Mr. John Samuels was also present.

The Minister said that the Department of Posts has registered many strides to provide the customers a value based and fast as well as effective services. He said that their role has also immensely increased in the present age of globalization.

Giving an over view of the significance of the Postal service, Mr. Sagar said that the service is a simple and effective means of communication for common masses living in far-flung remote areas as well as the urban habitations. He impressed upon the people to avail maximum benefit of the facilities being provided by postal department.

The Chief Post Master also spoke on the occasion, and gave an over view of the activities under taken by them for ensuring that more and more people avail the services of their department. He also gave out the new areas of plans of expanding their activities for the benefit of the people.

Issues concerning poorest of the poor deserve more space: IMPCC

SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 10: An Inter Media Publicity Coordination Committee (IMPCC) meeting was held here today under the Chairmanship of Deputy Director General News, Mr. Bashir Malik.

The meeting discussed various issues related to functioning of different media units in the state including the Directorate of Information J&K.

The Chairman IMPCC stated that the purpose of holding IMPCC meeting is not limited to maintaining the Inter Media Group relations but also to understand functional difficulties of different media organizations and finding a solution to the problems confronting them.

Director Information, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad expressed his gratitude both to Doordarshan Kendra and Radio Kashmir Srinagar for extending their unqualified cooperation to the department. He said that the projection of policies and programmes of the government in a befitting manner is made possible only because of the active participation of DDK and Radio.

The Chair and also the Director DDK and Radio reciprocated by saying that they have been receiving cooperation from Information Department in the same spirit which has made it possible for them to function in a hassle free manner.

Different media organizations shared their concern about the paucity of sufficient manpower in their respective departments.It was resolved that the concerned authorities shall be requested to address the acute shortage of manpower in DDK, Radio and Information Department.

The participants put-forth several suggestions for strengthening inter media coordination to effectively publicize flagship programmes and important people friendly legislations. The chair desired that forest depletion and other environmental issues should be given appropriate space.

It was decided that the next meeting of IMPCC will be held in Jammu in the office of Directorate of Information.

Additional Director General PIB, Mr Obaid-ur-Rehman, Director Information, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad Bhat, Station Director Doordarshan Kendra, Mr. Qoyum Wadera, Station Director Radio Kashmir Srinagar, Ms. Rukhsana Jabeen and other units heads of PIB, Leh Station and Field Publicity attended the meeting.

Will go ahead with Sectt Gherao on Oct 15: JCC

‘Govt has no alternative but to implement agreement’

Srinagar, Oct. (VOS): Asserting that the State Government doesn’t have any option other than to implement its agreement, Employees Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) today said that it will go ahead with its programme to gherao the Civil Secretariat here on October 15.

According to VOS, JCC held a protest demonstration in both the regions of the State and at district headquarters to press for their demands and implementation of agreements signed between the JCC leaders and the government.

Meanwhile, employees in various offices today observed a pen down strike on the call of Joint Consultative Committee.

A group of employees assembled in the premises of the CAPD office in Srinagar and peacefully marched towards the Deputy Office Srinagar’s office. They also presented a memorandum of demands of the employees to Deputy Commissioner.

Large contingents of police were deployed in the areas as the employees marched, however, it didn’t make any attempt to disperse the protesters.

JCC leaders Khursheed Aalam and Abdul Qayoom Wani after presenting the memorandum of demands to DC Srinagar told VOS that Government didn’t have any option to ignore the demands of the employees. “If government fails to fulfill its promises with four lakh state employees, it will lose their confidence”, said Aalam.

“Government had asked for time till September which has passed off, now we’re determined to proceed with our Secretariat Gherao programme on 15th October”, Aalam added.

Reports of the employee’s protests in Jammu were also reported.

JCC is demanding the enhancement in retirement age from 58 to 60, regularization of the daily wagers and release of 6th pay commission arrears.

Meanwhile, hundred of employees took part in a protest march at Kupwara in support of their demands. Mir Fayaz and Syed Gh Rasool Geelani led the march. (VOS)

NPP, BJP demand reservation in BDC polls

Srinagar, Oct 10 (VOS): Last day of Jammu and Kashmir State Legislative Assembly on Wednesday began with pandemonium before Question Hour, witnessing uproarious scenes over the issue of reservations for women and SC/STs in the upcoming block development council (BDC) polls.

Members of the National Panthers Party (NNP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) staged a protest and stormed into the well of the house demanding reservation for OBCs, SCs and STs in the polls.

Chief Minister (CM) Omar Abdullah, who was present in the Assembly turned aggressive and silenced the opposition NPP and BJP members who were raising slogans disrupting the Question Hour on the issue. “You’re staging drama in the house, go outside of the house to play it”, said Omar to agitated legislators.

Haresh Dev Singh of NPP said "we are in favor of holding elections to BDCs but there should be reservation for scheduled cast, other backward classes and schedule tribe first as laid down in the constitution”.

He demaned that out of 143 seats of chairmen for BDCs, 12 should be reserved for SC/ST/OBC and women.

“Where were you when the government reserved wards for panches and sarpanches at grass root level, you’ve become habitual of harassing the Rural Development Minister” said Omer to agitated members. “You’re creating a political drama, if you want to play it (Drama) go outside of the house”, Omar said aggressively. (VOS)

Non-availability of late evening passenger traffic

Authorities seize 300 permits of mini buses for violating rules

Srinagar, Oct. 10 (VOS): Seizing the route permits of 300 mini buses of the Srinagar city for violating route permits, the authorities have asked passenger vehicle owners to follow the rules or face legal action.

According to VOS, on the directions of Additional Road Transport Officer (ARTO) Srinagar Abdul Majid Bhat around 300 mini buses route permits have been seized after the commuters had complained against disappearance of passenger buses from routes after 6’o clock in the evening.
“These passenger vehicles belong to Haji Peer and New Kashmir corporations which ply on the routes of Lal Bazar and Hyderpora respectively”, said ARTO while talking to VOS.

He said commuters had complained that these vehicles disappear from the routes at 6 O’clock and cause miseries to the public at large and the complaints were found true after investigation.
The ARTO said that it has asked the owners whose route permits have been seized to get no objection certificate from the Local Committees of the area they ply in, to get their permits restored.

“Since we have seized the permits on the true and factual complaints of commuters, so we directed the aggrieved permit owners to get no objection
certificate from the aggrieved communities to get permit restored”, said Majid.
Pertinently, passenger transport gets disappeared from the routes in the evening hours in Srinagar City and it has been a long pending demand of commuters to look into the matter. People from various areas have appreciated the step of the ARTO. (VOS)

No compromise on security of house: Speaker

Srinagar, Oct 10 (VOS): Asserting that his directions regarding security were not meant to hurt or cast doubt on any member of the house, Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly Mohammad Akbar lone said that there would be no compromise on the security of house.

The issue was raised by the CPI (M) member Mohammad Yousuf Targami before Question Hour began. He wanted to know if the Speaker had given directions to security personnel to conduct frisking of Chief Minister and other MLAs.

“I’ve never named the CM before the security personal in my directions but I’ve issued the directions to the security personnel of the Assembly about the personal assistants (P.A) of MLA in the house” said Speaker to the House.

Lone said that meeting was held with the security personnel guarding the House and there would be no compromise with the security of house. He said that he wanted the cooperation of the all members in this regard.

Pertinently, Chaos was created in the State Legislative Assembly when three intruders had jumped from public gallery into the well of Assembly raising slogans for the implementation of employment policy on Monday. Speaker had issued directions to initiate proceedings against the intruders who were identified as Manash Gupta, Sunny Malhotra and Ambedkar Gupta and had confessed that MLA Vasooli Jagdish Raj Sapolia helped them to get entry passes to house. Interestingly, intruders were holding Soplia’s party JKDF flag when they intruded in the house.

Chief Minister had denied calling it security breach while Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti termed it security breach. Both PDP and ruling parties had condemned the act. (VOS)

Wular Kinaray-II released

Srinagar, Oct 10 (VOS): The second volume of Senior separatist leader and Chairman of Hurriyat Conference (G), Syed Ali Geelani’s autobiography ‘Wular Kinaray’ was today released in a function organized at the octogenarian leaders residence at Hyrderpora here.

The function among others was attended by Syed Ali Geelani, Mohammad Ashraf Sehrai, Gulam Nabi Sumji and parents of some youth who had lost lives in the ongoing struggle.

Sehrai while speaking on the occasion said he was witness to most of the incidents spoken about in the book.

Dr Showkat Shafi on the occasion said that although Geelani is one of the main critics of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, however, he has not remained short of praising Sheikh’s deeds where they deserved appreciation.

Columnist Hassan Zaingaeeri while terming Geelani as Meenar-e-Hurriyat said he is the custodian of the sacrifices offered by the people of the state. He said Geelani has throughout opposed accession of the state with India even when he was in the state assembly. “Indian secularism is the biggest fraud of the 2th century”, Zainageeri quoted Geelani of having said in the assembly adding the comments were got deleted by the leader of the house Mir Qasim.

Ayaz Akbar while speaking on the occasion said the book is the story of a Mujahid’s struggle. “While Geelani Sahab was in Jail, he wrote Rudaade Qafs and while he was detained at home, he wrote Wular Kinaray and both are a gift to the nation”.

Kashmir university being turned into political background: Geelani

Asserting that the state is being subjected to cultural aggression, Hurriyat Conference (G) Chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani said the University of Kashmir is being turned into a political background which needs to be addressed.

While speaking on the function organized for release of the second volume of his autobiography, Wular Kinaray, Geelani said India has launched at policy of cultural and civilizational aggression in the schools, Colleges and Universities of the state.

“Although the University at Awantipora was established in the name of Islam, however, it has been turned into a centre of immorality.”, he said.

He said the local officers in the administration are equally responsible for turning this cultural and civilizational aggression into a reality. He urged upon the administrators of educational institutions no to allow the designs of immorality and westernization succeed in their respective institutions.

While speaking on the occasion, Geelani called upon youth not to delay marriage, which according to him, gives rise to immoral tendencies among youth.

The Hurriyat Chairman while condemning detention of youth in the valley said the state police is committing atrocities while enjoying the environment of impunity.

He said India is spending huge sums of money to buy Kashmiri youth, Intellectuals, journalists, traders and officers. (VOS)

Shopian court asks police to file FIR against forger

Srinagar, Oct. 10 (VOS): Rejecting the bail application of the accused under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPC) after finding him of having changed his caste to mislead the court, District and Session Judge Shopain directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) to loge an F.I.R against the accused including his abettors.
According to VOS, police arrested Mohammad Ashraf Wani S/o: Ghualam
Hassan Wani R/o: Zainapora after he fled seeing the police squad leaving behind the bag full of Charas. Subsequently, a F.I.R number 36/2011 was registered under offence 8/20NDPS and the challan was produced before the session’s court after the investigations were concluded.
Pertinently, the accused, Wani was under trail before the same court under F.I.R number 13/2010. Wani moved the bail application in the court mentioning his caste ‘Dar’ instead of ‘Wani’. After going through the facts of the case and persons identity, it was found that the accused has forged the caste in order to mislead the court to get bail out.
Session Judge Shopain Raja Shujaat Ali Khan directed the SSP Shopain to lodge an F.I.R in this matter and against the accused and his abettors and to get the case investigated thoroughly.
Rejecting the bail application of the Wani, Court held that the accused is directly involved in the NDPS offences which degrades the society and is pertaining to the youth. His illegal activities are dangerous to the public and large. Therefore, it is in the inertest of the society to reject his bail application. (VOS)

Govt won’t pass Transworld Muslim University bill

Demands declaring Kandi areas of Chadoora as backward

Srinagar, Oct 10 (VOS): Claiming that the State Government would not pass the Transworld Muslim University Bill, Peoples Democratic Party MLA Javid Mustafa Mir said he would resign if Government proves his assertion wrong.

“Government doesn’t want to pass the pending bill. If government proves me wrong I’ll resign from my seat”, Mir told VOS.

He staged walk out on Wednesday from the State Legislative Assembly after he wasn’t satisfied with the reply to his question by Minister of Social welfare Sakina Ittoo.

Mir had asked the question pertaining to his constituency Chadoora in which he had wanted to know if government proposes to declare Kandi areas of Chadoora as Backward Areas.

Concerned Minister in reply said that in case Kandi areas of Chadoora fulfill the criteria to come under the provisions of the backward area, the matter can be considered for its inclusion in the backward list. ‘However, the State Backward Classes Commission has not received any representation as on the date from any such area.’

Javid sharply reacted to the reply of Ittoo and staged walked out from the house.

Talking to VOS, Javid said that the Minister has contradicted her previous reply in which she had confirmed receipt of representation from the Kandi areas of the Chadoora. (VOS)

PDP stages walkout on backdoor appointment issue

Govt must come clean on this important issue: Mehbooba

Srinagar, Oct 10: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) today staged a walk out in protest against the government’s failure to clarify on its contradictory replies on engagement of 43000 casual labourers/daily wagers in various departments.

While pointing towards the two government replies on the same question pertaining to engagement of casual labourers in different government departments, Mehbooba Mufti President PDP, asked the government to come clean on the issue.

Ahead of Question Hour, while refereeing to written replies to questions posed by Peerzada Mansoor Hussain MLA Shangus and Choudhry Zulfikar Ali MLA Darhal, Mehbooba said the government’s backdoor appointment policy stands exposed as the government figures show that 33000 people out of 43000 already have been appointed as daily wagers and causal labourers in different departments.

She said if government reply to Mansoor Hussain’s question says no engagements have been made so far and the necessary operational modalities are being worked out, then how it has already appointed 33000 causal labourers and daily wagers in seven different departments as has been explained in government reply to Zulfikar Ali’s question.

Mehbooba said the youth of the state were forced to take guns and resort to violence when in 1987, the elections were rigged. She said the same way youth are being pushed to wall by subverting the process of recruitment and the present government led by national Conference has once again reverted to its traditional backdoor and corrupt practices. “The National Conference led government is committing injustice. This government is snatching rights of the youth who deserve engagement on the basis of their merit. The benefits and favours are being extended to their favorite families. Injustice is being practiced by the present government which is drastically pushing the society toward devastation,” Mehbooba lamented.

Mehbooba said the number of educated jobless youth has crossed six lakh and when according to reports there are about one Lakh vacancies in the government it self. She said it was natural for people to believe that government had kept these vacancies up its sleeves either to sell them against money or political favours. She said backdoor entries into the government have once again become a norm and hundreds of retired officers are being reemployed almost as a routine.

Referring to protests staged by National Youth Corps (NYC) volunteers, Mehbooba said during 2010 summer unrest, the government tactfully engaged around eight thousand youth as NYC volunteers to prevent them from taking part in stone pelting but once there were signs of normalcy the NYC volunteers were left high and dry. She said the present government exploited them as many of them had to leave their education midway for they were promised permanent jobs. “While the present government is dolling out favours of backdoor engagement to its favorites, the NYC volunteers have been asked to stay home. This is sheer exploitation and nothing else,” she observed.

Election to BDC’s historic step

“Mufti’s, Beigh socially bankrupt, continuous absence from assembly proves their non-seriousness”

Srinagar October 10: The National Conference today while welcoming the announcement of election to the BDC’s and calling it historic lambasted the opposition PDP saying that they have already conceded defeat even before election.

“Their poor show in the assembly and the total division in the ranks of the PDP members is a clear sign that PDP is now leaderless, directionless and issueless” National Conference Spokesman Tanvir Sadiq said.

“Their total ignorance and double standards about Panchayats was proven as Panchayat Raj Ministers response made them fall flat on their faces” said Tanvir “they did not even have one argument to counter the Minister or say anything in their defense”, “Beigh knew he would have to bite the dust and that is why he abstained from being in the assembly when Sagar Sahib was replying to his canard and fabrication” he added

“What happened to their long press conferences and their imaginary Bills with which they were hoodwinking the poor Panchayat members?” Sadiq asked

“Mehbooba Ji and Muzaffar Beigh Sahib have all along played dirty politics and have been lying and hoodwinking the public with emotive slogans” said Tanvir

“Beigh Sahib was once again flaunting a piece of paper, distorting history and accusing Sher-e-Kashmir” Sadiq added “He is a politician who will even bargain his faith for grabbing power” said Tanvir.

“The Lion of Kashmir doesn’t need a certificate from a co-conspirator of Jagmohan. Sheikh Sahib’s personality is incredibly high and his doings are written in the annals of history and is respected worldwide by one and all” adding that “ unlike Beigh, who for his anti- Kashmiri stand was nominated as the then Dy.CM” said Tanvir

“Mufti Sahib’s continuous absence from assembly proves his non-seriousness towards people who elected him” adding “He feels below his pride to even attended the District Development meetings where issues and plans of public importance are decided” said Tanvir

Calling PDP leaders including Mehbooba Mufti and Muzaffar Beigh as socially bankrupt the NC spokesman said that they have totally disconnected themselves from the public and masses and are unaware of the ground realities.

"PDP hyped the emotions of people but miserably failed when the occasion of delivery arose. They talked too much but showed zero result practically and that was proven in the recent assembly” said Sadiq reminding of the tall promises made by PDP leadership to the people about ‘healing touch’ but doing nothing except giving killing touch to people when this party was in power.

Terming the Panchayat Election as the biggest achievement of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah government the NC Spokesman said that it is people’s victory

“The ensuing BDC election after the successful Panchayat election is yet another feather in the Cap of the Omar Abdullah government which believes that governance should be taken from the secretariat to the door step of the people” said Tanvir adding “Unlike our adversaries who believe in weakening these institution as they did in 2005 by passing a bill which was against the basic essence of Panchayats”

Appreciating the reply of Panchayat Raj Minister Ali Mohd Sagar in the assembly NC Spokesman said the party is open to any ideas that will improve the overall functioning of the Panchayats and will leave no stone unturned to ensure its success

AAC observes Youm-e-Aseeran

Aimed at expressing solidarity with facilies of prisoners: Mirwaiz

Srinagar, Oct 10: Jammu and Kashmir Awami Action Committee (JKAAC) today observed Youm-e-Aseeran to mark the Oct 10, 1965 events at the party headquarters- Mirwaiz Manzil- in Srinagar.
The meeting was chaired by JKAAC head and hurriyat chairman, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq who recently arrived back to Kashmir after completion of his recently concluded international tour. Heads of various
organizations, workers and activists also participated in the large gathering.
Mirwaiz in his inaugural address detailed out the importance of the day of October 10. He said the Kashmiri voice of demanding rights and justice was muzzled from day one by the tyrant rulers who formulated various strategies to break their will in order to disassociate them from the right to self- determination and demanding freedom. He said the history of Kashmir since Shaheed-e- Millat to till date is a witness to the fact that scores of Kashmiris, especially youth, children and students are facing imprisonments and are being tortured.
The APHC chairman said the main aim of Youm-e-Aseeran, which is being observed today, is to remember prisoners and express solidarity and sympathy with their families.
Mirwaiz appealed international human rights organizations including Red Cross, Asia watch, Amnesty International etc to take strong notice of the condition of Kashmiri prisoners incarcerated in Jails. He said they have been kept devoid of medication according to the jail manuals. He said the organizations should play their effective role in improving the condition of Kashmiri prisoners languishing in jails.
Mirwaiz said that Kashmiri youth are being bundled into jails by invoking black laws like PSA. He said such acts of arbitrary arrests and impunity is highly regrettable and condemnable.
APHC Chairman once again reiterated his demand of unconditional release of all Kashmiri prisoners on the eve of Idd-ul-Adha. He said such a step would help in creating a conducive atmosphere on the ground which would ultimately lead to the solution of Kashmir issue.
Mirwaiz said that the freedom struggle of Kashmiris had continued from 1931 to 1947 and from 1965 onwards to present day. He said that apartfrom people, the Kashmiri leadership has also laid acrifices for the just cause. He said that along with Palestine, Kashmir issue is too on top of the international agenda and Government of India has no choice other than to address the long pending dispute through peaceful means.
On the occasion, the heads of different organizations addressed the gathering. AAC general secretary GN Zaki spoke extensively on thecontribution of Mirwaiz family and Shaheed-e-millat, and paid them glowing tributes.
Party leaders Mohammad Shafi Khan, Advocate Shahid-ul-Islam, Ghulam Qadir Beigh and Mushtaq Ahmad Sofi and MS Shams were alsopresent on the occasion

High Level PDP delegation attends Chaharum of Sheikh Mohammadi

Srinagar, Oct. 10 : A high level delegation of Peoples Democratic Party today participated in the Chaharum of Sheikh Ahmad Mohammadi the late Chairman of Islamia School Kargil.

According to a press statement issued here by the party, the delegation led by Senior Leader and former Finance Minister Tariq Hameed Karra included former Minister Qazi Mohammed Afzal , Former Minister Aga Syed Mehmood and Local Leaders of the party Adv Gh Murtaza, Kachu Gulzar Hussain, Najjaf Ali and Aga Mujtaba visited the residence of Late Sheikh and on behalf of the party high command conveyed their condolences to the bereaved family. Expressing sympathies with the children of Sheikh Mohammadi the leaders termed Sheikh’s demise a great loss for the society and the Kargil in particular. The leaders recalled his contribution for up-liftment the poor and the needy and termed him a great religious scholar and preacher.

Later the leaders also visited Islamia School and attended the Fateha Khuwani of Sheikh Ahmad Mohammadi.

Engineer raises dog menace in assembly

Bring rights of humans at par with dogs

Srinagar, October 10: MLA Langate, Er Abdul Rasheed today accused the government complete negligence towards dog menace and said that life of innocent citizens including children, men and women has become extremely vulnerable due to huge increase in dog population.

Speaking in the state assembly today, he said that many people have lost their lives due to dog biting and hundreds have been injured.

“The tragic part of the story is that adequate medicines and vaccine is not being kept available in the primary health centers and other hospitals across the state”

He said that recently 46 people were critically injured in one day in his constituency.

MLA alleged that rights of animals particularly those of dogs are much more protected than those of human beings in Jammu & Kashmir.

He asked law minister who was present in the house if government can’t do anything to protect its citizens. “At least you can bring a law that should bring rights of humans at par with that of animals especially dogs.”, he told the Law minister. He said that in Kashmir it will be a big thing if Kashmiris will be treated as good as animals.

Besides Er Rasheed also expressed his anger that the government is not taking any action against those whom security agencies call their ‘sources’ and get people tortured and killed because of their personal enmity. He was responding to MoS Home’s confession in the assembly that Kokernag incident in which a lady lost her life took place because of the wrong information given by the so called ‘source’. MLA said that recent killing of youth Hilal Ahmad of Aloosa Bandipora and Ashiq Hussain Rather of Laser Rafiabad took place repotedly because of misleading of forces by their sources. MLA stressed upon the government that it should take stern action against these criminals called ‘sources’ and top brasses of security forces must be punished for patronizing these criminals.

SMC Comr for expediting work on Bulbul Shah Shrine

Srinagar, Oct 10 (VOS): Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has today directed officials to expedite the work on the Bulbul Shah Shrine during inspection of work on renovation and beautification of the shrine..

The Commissioner also visited the grave of Ahad Zargar here..

During his visit to the shrine Dr Qasba also directed the concerned oficials to take the beautification work outside the premises of the shrine with focus on lighting of the façade, the SMC spokesperson said in a statement here.

Dr Qasba also stressed on the conceptual plan to be framed by hiring the consultants for the renovation and modification of the grave, the statement added.

The Commissioner was acompanied by Joint Commissiner Works Abdul Majeed Raina, Ex Engineer Right River Works Ishtiyak Ahmed, Ex Engineer Left River Works Shafaat Khan, Ex Engineer Mech Itrat Naseem, Divisional Town Planner Mehraj-u-din and others.

Youth congress to intensify agitation for panchayat empowerment

Jammu, October 10 : Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Youth Congress is going to intensify its agitation across the state for empowerment of the Panchayati Raj Institutions in Jammu & Kashmir under the provision of 73rdAmendment of the Constitution of India.

Addressing a press conference at party headquarter, today PYC President Shahnawaz Choudhary thanked AICC General Secretary Shri Rahul Gandhi-MP for endorsing the demand for strengthening the Panchayati Raj System in the state at par with the rest of the country. He said that in the recently held meeting with Shri Rahul Gandhi showed his keenness to strengthen the Panchayati Raj System in all parts of the Country. He said that holding elections to the Block Development Councils is a positive sign towards fulfilling the demand of Pradesh Youth Congress and hoped that maximum powers will be given to Panchayats under the provisions of 73rd Amendment in the Panchayati Raj Act.

Shahnawaz Choudhary further said that J&K PYC will continue its struggle until the Panchayats are fully empowered in the state.

Vice President PYC Parnav Shagotra said that J&KPYC fully supports the condenses evolved between party legislators, legislators of the associate parties, District Presidents and Block Presidents on the question of Congress party’s strategy for participation in the ensuing elections to the Block Development Councils of the Panchayats in the state. He said that holding of Block Development Council elections is the first step towards strengthening of Panchayati Raj System and reiterated that J&K PYC’s stand is very clear towards powers to Panchayat and will continue its struggle under the able and dynamic guidance of Shri Rahul Gandhi.

General Secretary PYC S.Manjit Singh Jatt said that some political parties are misquoting the stand of AICC General Secretary Shri Rahul Gandhi-MP that he is not in favour of empowerment of Panchayats in Jammu and Kashmir, but the fact is that it is Rahul Gandhi’s efforts the state government is holding the elections to the Block Development Councils of Panchayats.

Lok Sabha Youth Congress President Udhampur-Kathua Shri Pankaj Basotra and Assembly President Gandhi Nagar Shri Jatinder Chib also spoke in the Press conference.

Soz calls upon Governor

Apprises him on consensus on 73^rd amendment adoption

Srinagar, Oct 10: On his return from Jammu today Prof. Saifuddin Soz MP (Former Union Minister) & President J&K Pradesh Congress Committee called on Governor Shri. N. N.Vohra at Raj Bhavan.

Among other things he (Prof. Soz) apprised Shri.Vohra of the consensus in the Congress Party on adoption of the provisions of 73rd Amendment of Constitution of India.

He also apprised Vohra that this consensus was organized through discussions at various levels in the party such as J&K Congress Legislature Party followed by the meeting of Party Functionaries in Kashmir Province and Party Functionaries in Jammu Province respectively.

Finally, apart from keeping Congress Party’s interest in view, it was unanimously decided that Congress party must adhere to its resolve that since 73rd Amendment of Constitution of India alone can empower Panchayat Institutions at the grass roots level, its provisions must be adopted.

Congress Party also decided that it must remain firm on rejection of the system of Nomination in the Panchayati Raj System, at all levels.

Prof. Soz is leaving for Delhi to apprise the Party High Command of the consensus within the J&K Pradesh Congress at all levels, on the questions of adoption of provisions of 73rd Amendment of Constitution of India.

Qasba intereacts with hoteliers, shopkeepers

Discusses scientific mode of garbage collection
Srinagar, Oct 10: Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) G.N Qasba had an interactive session with the Traders of Lal Chowk today regarding scientific mode of garbage disposal.

“He urged the hoteliers to retain garbage till specific evening time and empty their bins only, when SMC hopper vehicle which is a compact PIGIO auto garbage carrier, will reach their door steps for the collection of garbage and other waste material”, said an SMC statement.
The hopper machines which are hydraulic in nature will be put at use very soon and has a tendency of compressing the garbage and emptying it automatically in the compactor vehicles, besides collecting door to door garbage.
During an interactive session Qasba said that the dogs which have virtually become a menace is one of the issues related to garbage management and can be to a greater extent tackled through proper garbage lifting..

“If garbage is not thrown in open, there would be a proper lifting of garbage and Lal Chowk would be out rightly dog free as well,”said Dr Qasba.
He said that Clean Srinagar Green Srinagar Campaign will switch over to every such accessible scientific and technological mode which will help in making Srinagar a clean and all time a better city, for which SMC seeks the cooperation of the citizens particularly the business establishments dealing with hotels, restaurants and other institutions for not throwing any kind of garbage in an open space.
Dr Qasba ensured the traders speedy work on drainage while addressing their grievances’.
Besides others Joint Commissioner Administration Fayaz Ahmad Baala,Cheif Enforcement Officer AIJAZ Hakaam,Chief Sanitation Officer ManzoorAhmed Turray, Exn Mech Itrat Naseem,and the other staff of SMC were present on the occasion.

JKYF sets up Vocational Training Centre for Orphan and Poor Girls

Ration Kits, Blankets distributed among widows

Kishtwar, October 10 : In continuation of its efforts to reach out to the poor and needy people with, J & K Yateem Foundation has established Tehsil unit at Marwah in district Kishtwar.

In this connection a function was organised at Noopchi Marwah, which was presided over by Er Syed Ab. Hamid, Patron JKYF. Javid Ahmad Kraipak, Divisional Co-ordinator JKYF, Farooq Ahmad Bhat, District Representative Anantnag (Islamabad) and locals were present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Er Hamid while highlighting the need and importance of social service said that the people from cross section of society have moral & religious obligation to make best possible efforts for the welfare & rehabilitation of the needy and destitute living in difficult conditions in far-flung and backward areas of J & K state.

He called upon the volunteers to work with humility, dedication and sincerity to bring comfort to the needy people irrespective of caste, colour, creed, region or religion.

On this occasion, Ration Kits, Blankets and Cash assistance amounting to approximately Rs 26, 000 were distributed among widows. Besides, a vocational training centre (cutting & tailoring) for the orphan and poor girls of Marwah area, was also announced.

The centre would impart training to a batch of 20 girls who would be paid a stipend of Rs 200/- per month for a period of nine months.

Earlier, the programme started with the recitation of Holy Quran followed by Naat-e-Rasool (S.A.W). Ghulam Mohammad Malik conducted the proceedings while Javaid Ahmad Kraipak presented vote of thanks.

J&K Bank opens Business Unit in Tullail

Srinagar, Oct 10: J&K Bank inaugurated a fully computerized Business Unit (B.U) at Budugam in Tullail - a far off village in district Bandipore.

Sub District Magistrate Gurez M A Hakak inaugurated the Business Unit in presence of Bank’s Zonal Head M S Kaboo and a good gathering of valuable customers and local residents.

Hailing the efforts of Bank after cutting the ceremonial ribbons, SDM said, “J&K Bank is the state’s financial backbone which offers viable products and services to the customers.”

He urged the people to avail the benefits of the products and services offered by the bank.

Dedicating the B.U to the people of Tullail, Bank’s Vice President and Zonal Head, Kashmir (North) M S Kaboo said that with the opening of fully computerized B.U at Tullail, the zone has got 100% achievement in bringing all the Business Units on Core Banking Solution (CBS) platform.

He said, “It is mission of the Bank to provide end-to-end financial solutions to the people including poorest of poor through fastest modes of services.”

With this the total number of B.U’s in Kashmir (North) reached 75.

JKP organizing Jashan-e-Dal, Marathon in Srinagar

Srinagar, Oct 10: As a part of its Civic Action Programme, Jammu and Police is organizing Jashan-e-Dal and Open Kashmir Marathon Shikara Race this month in summer capital. The events are expected to witness a large participation of youth in water sports and other activities.

This was disclosed by Inspector General of Police (IGP), Armed Kashmir, Rouf-ul-Hassan in a meeting held at Armed Police Headquarters this evening. The meeting was convened to discuss various arrangements with regard to the 3-day long festival.

In swimming the evens include free style, breast stroke, back stroke, relay, long distance open. The winners of different events would be given cash prizes upto Rs. 1 lakh. The Jashan would also witness band display and special cultural items, he added.

The meeting discussed various arrangements including police bandubast, traffic, security in and around the venue, deployment of judges, and rescue arrangements. Various committees were constituted to make the arrangements for the festival. Commandant, IRP 2nd, Mr Mohammad Yousuf Mir was nominated as nodal officer for the mega event.

KCSDS condemns Union Power minister’s statement

‘Statements are a reflection of imperialist attitude of GoI’
Srinagar, Oct 10: The Kashmir Centre for Social and Development Studies (KCSDS) has expressed anguish over thestatements of Union Power Minister Veerapa Moily and Union Power Secretary P.Umma Shankar who according to the press reports have not only categorically rejected returning of NHPC-occupied power projects to the state but also have hailed NHPC for running these projects “nicely”.
In a meeting held under the chairpersonship of Prof. Hameedah Nayeem, the KCSDS members said, “these statements are unacceptable to the people of the state who, over decades, are forced to reel under darkness while NHPC have been taking away the power generated on state’s water resources. The statements are a reflection of the imperialistic attitude of central
government authorities towards J&K state where it has been heel bent on robbing the people of the exploitation of their own resources.”
”The Power ministry as well as NHPC has failed to produce any legal document that could justify their control over Salal, Uri, Dul Hasti and other power projects”, they added.

The members observed that some ministers of the state governemnt have termed the control of NHPC on these projects as illegal and unconstitutional as they are neither in possession of any license to generate power in terms of J&K State Electricity Act nor have any lease documents for the land and property over which these projects have been set up.
The KCSDS members expressed regret that ever since NHPC has surfaced on the scene in Jammu and Kashmir, it has plundered the water resources inflicting colossal recurring losses on state’s fragile economy. Further, the NHPC has prima facie been found involved in misplacing the official records about Salal power project from which the state was due to receive 50% share in terms of a cabinet order of 1975. Besides, the corporation has also made the state to suffer more than 2500 crores of losses fraudulently over a period of time by providing less energy than agreed upon. NHPC with these credentials can only be hailed by those who are actually working against the genuine prosperity and progress of the state with her own resources.
They said the revelation of the authorities in union power ministry that the state government has settled the issue with centre on account of return of power projects is a grave one and requires the state government to clarify their position.
”The KCSDS believes that the statements of power minister and power secretary reflect the policies of deceit and duplicity by the central and state governments. Before the issue degenerates into a major political controversy with disastrous consequences the state government needs to make it amply clear whether it has entered any nefarious deal with the central government on power projects”, said a statement issued by the KSCDS.

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Wednesday 10 October 2012

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