THEDAILY

VOICE OF SRINAGAR

SRINAGAR, TUESDAY, 09 SHAWAAL 1433 AH ; 28 AUGUST 2012

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NEWS

Rather for developing Yusmarg as eco-tourism hub

Jora for priority to local architecture while developing tourism infrastructure

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27:-. With a view to show case the breath taking scenic beauty of the famous tourist place Yusmarg in district Budgam, a 3- day Tourism festival will be organized there by ending next month (September). Besides, some famous Tour and Travel operating Groups from across the country would also be taken to Yusmarg to acquaint them about the vast tourism potential of Yusmarg especially its unique adventure tourism potential.

            These decisions were taken at the 4^th Board meeting of the Yusmarg Development Authority (YDA) held at Civil Secretariat, today under the chairmanship of the Minister for Tourism & Culture, Mr.  Nawang Rigzin Jora.

            The Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather and the Minister of State for Tourism and Home, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani were also present.

            The Chief Executive Officer, Yousmarg Development Authority, Mr. Ghalib Mohi-ud-din informed that the Union Ministry for Tourism has sanctioned Rs. 4 crore for construction of recreation and sports centre at Yusmarg. Since, Yusmarg is being developed as a unique adventure tourist destination, activities like Zorbing, Mountain Biking, Bungee Jumping and Trampoline have already been started and the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering, Pahalgam has been approached to hold training camps at Yusmarg regularly to train the local youth and school children in different adventure tourism activities.  It was also informed that a Herbal Garden will be developed at Yusmarg through the Forest department.

            The meeting gave its nod to the proposal to construct trekking routes and wayside facilities as a part of development of Doodhganga, Drugdolen, Burga and Kalnag to be funded by the Union Ministry of Tourism. The YDA also proposes to construct a Golf course at Hayjan village with the assistance of central funds in the near future7. Till then, the meeting agreed to construct a putting green at Yusmarg so that it adds to its attraction and also increases the scope of activities.

            The Board also approved the final Master plan 2009-2027 prepared by the Chief Town Planner, Kashmir and also for preparation of by-laws, after its detailed Power point presentation in the meeting.

            Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Jora called for development of basic infrastructure including construction of Hotels, as per the guidelines of the master, so that tourists visiting Yusmarg are provided adequate boarding and lodging facilities. He also suggested to encourage private sector investment in the infrastructure development at Yusmarg. Mr. Jora also urged for development of camping sites in Yusmarg for the facility of tourists adding that the main Yusmarg bowl should be preserved as green belt. He urged for priority to local architecture while tourism related constructions.

            The Finance Minister called for developing a comprehensive tourist circuit between Chrar-i-sharief-Yusmarg and Pakherpora. He urged for promoting eco-tourism so that Yusmarg could have a competitive edge over other tourist places as the place is calm and free from noise and other  pollutions.

            Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani called for strict adherence to the land use plan while construction of hotel accommodation and other tourism infrastructure. He asked the concerned authorities to construct food court also for convenience of the visitors.

            The Commissioner/Secretary, Tourism, Mr. Attul Dulloo, Special Secretary Planning & Development, Director Codes, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, DFO, Budgam and other concerned officers also attended the meeting.

U.K., New York based bodies agrees tie-up to help State’s CWSN: Rafi

Each District provided Rs. 50,000 for Inclusive sports among CWSN

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27:- The State Government is, for the first time, roping in the support of international agencies in helping buttress "inclusive education" of "children with special needs" (CWSN). Two such bodies, the U.K based "SMILE TRAIN" and the "SIGHT SAVERS" of New York have in principle agreed for a tie-up in this regard. These international bodies will  provide professional and funding support in detection and assessment of disabilities in the school going children (06-14 years age-group), Conduct of corrective surgeries and Capacity development of Special Educators.

            This was stated here today by the Advisor, State Sarva Shiksha Abhyan Mission (SSA), Mr. Mohammad Rafi while inaugurating a one-day WORKSHOP of DIET Principals, District Resource Groups, Special Educators and field officials of the Education Department. Rafi said 25 cases of CLEFT SURGERY, 11 from Kupwara, 03 from Doda and 04 from Rajouri Districts have been identified, to begin with, adding that that each such procedure will cost Rs. 80,000/- to be met under the tie-up. Likewise, for prevention and control of visual impairment in children, assessment and management camps are being organized at the District and Zonal levels.

            Expressing serious concern over "sluggish spending" in some of the components, the Advisor SSA Mission urged the participants to come up to the assigned task and accord primary place to "inclusive education" that it deserves.

            Mr. Rafi said that in the current Plan, the SSA Mission would organize" Exposure Visits" of 100 CWSN across the State with an allocation of Rs. 16.50 lakh and hold 1600 Counselling Sessions for Parents, adding that an amount of Rs. 80 lakh had been released to the CEOs for the purpose. In addition, each District office has been provided Rs. 50,000/- for promotion of "inclusive sports" among the children with special needs (CWSN).

Bhalla chairs Select Committee meeting

           SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27:- A meeting of Select Committee of Legislative Assembly was held under the Chairmanship of Minister of Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation, Mr. Raman Bhalla here today.

Members of Committee Mr. Jagdesh Raj Sopolia, and Mr. Abdul Rehman Veeri were present in the meeting.

The said Committee which is constituted for seeking suggestions regarding the prohibition of the conversion of agriculture land for non agricultural purposes in the State and for matters incidental thereto or connected therewith.

Some of the sections of the bill were discussed in the meeting and members gave their valuable suggestions regarding the measures to prevent such conversions.

Committee urged for the conservation of agriculture land and said that agriculture land is directly related to economy, culture, heritage and history of our State.

Principal Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department, Commissioner Secretary, Agriculture Department, Commissioner Secretary, Revenue Department, Additional Secretary, Law Department, other concerned officers and officers of Legislative Assembly also attended the meeting.

CS Chairs Governing Body meeting of NRHM

Calls for Close coordination to improve performance and benefits

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27 – Chief Secretary, Madhav Lal Monday emphasized the need for effectively implementation of National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) flagship programme to ensure universalization of health services in rural areas of the state.

            Addressing the governing body meeting of NRHM, Chief Secretary called for close coordination and improvement in information flow at all levels in the health department for maximizing benefits and to achieve stipulated targets under the programme.

The Governing Body reviewed the status and functioning of the programme including the physical and financial progress achieved under the Annual Action Plan.

The meeting was told that Rs 312.54 Crore under NRHM was approved by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Government of India for the fiscal year 2012-13.

With a view to provide referral transport service to the patients for timely medicare during health emergencies and accidents a toll free telephone number 102 is being established in the state, the meeting was told. People can have easy access to an ambulance by dialing the toll free number.  Chief Secretary in this regard directed for fitting all Ambulances across the state with GIS/GPS systems by December this year.

To strengthen the health institutions Chief Secretary directed for fixing clear cut targets for upgradation of CHCs and PHCs to Mother and Child Health (MCH) centres/delivery points. He said that the executive committee of NRHM should periodically review the process of proposed upgradation. Out of the 2997 institutions, 522 health institutions are proposed to be upgraded to MCH centres in different levels during 2012-13.

Chief Secretary also directed for completing the process of opening of remaining bank accounts by September in respect of all the village health sanitation and nutrition committees. Joint Bank Accounts in respect of 6115 out of 6886 committees have already been opened so far.        The Governing Body also discussed matters pertaining to availability and rationalization of Doctors, release of state share under NRHM, reconstitution of State Health Society, 3^rd party monitoring, status of health infrastructure under NRHM and various other initiatives.

The meeting was attended by Principle Secretary Housing & Urban Development, Mr. Suresh Kumar, Commissioner Secretary PHE Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. B. D. Sharma, Secretary Health and Medical Education, Mr. M. K. Diwedi, Principle GMC, Srinagar, Qazi Masood, Director NRHM, Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Directors Health Services Kashmir and Jammu and other senior officer.

Sudhanshu Pandey reviews power scenario

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27:- A meeting to review the functioning power distribution system was held under the Chairmanship of Principal Secretary to Government, PDD Mr. Sudhanshu Pandey here today.

            The meeting was attended by Divisional Commissioner Power (J&K), Chief Engineer M&RE Wing Kashmir, all SE’s and Xen’s of M&RE Wing Kashmir.

            In the meeting Mr. Sudhanshu Pandey expressed his satisfaction over the distribution of power supply particularly during the month of holy Ramazan and further directed the officers of PDD to continue the maintenance of power supply in the ensuing months so that people get better electricity services.

            In the meeting the threadbare discussion on various issues likes revenue, accurate metering, billing and maintenance of electrical network. The officials were directed to expedite the installation of meters for all categories of consumers employing latest technology available.

            The meeting was told that the System engineers were also directed to conduct consumer interaction meetings at sub-divisional levels in order to understand the problems of consumers and mitigate the problems of the consumers.

            The meeting also discussed the issue of outstanding of electricity dues in all respect of consumers where arrears were of the order of 5000 plus in respect of domestic consumers and Rs. 10,000 plus in industrial and commercial consumer, was viewed seriously. The concerned field officers were directed to start a vigorous campaign for realisation of such arrears.

Power shut down on Aug 28

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27: According to Power Controller, Power Development Department, Kashmir Province, Bemina, Srinagar to carry out the necessary maintenance and repairs work, power supply to the areas fed from 33 KV Wanganpora-Rainawari-Khanyar and Wanganpora-BAMK lines shall remain affected on August 28, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

J&K Sqay Association wins 5 gold, 3 silver & 6 bronze medals at Haryana

                SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27: J&K Sqay Association has excelled in the 13^th Sub Junior National Sqay championship held at Kurukshetra Haryana. In the Championship, J&K finished 2^nd in overall medal tally by wining 5 gold, 3 silver & 6 bronze medals.

            The championship was organised by Sqay Association of Haryana recognised by Haryana Olympic Association under the aegis of Sqay Federation of India. Gold medals were won by Mehdeep Rashid, Hilal Ahmed, Abdul Basit, Mohsin Mouzam and Faizan, while Silver medals were won by Zaira Shafi,  Asrar Javid and Dikshah Devi besides Sahil Ishtaq, Abid Manzoor, Inam Shafi, Aqib, Furqan-ul-Islam and Roman bagged the Bronze medals.          

Rs. 10.46 cr released for upgradation of judicial infrastructure

            SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27:- An amount of Rs. 10.46 crore has been released for upgradation of judicial infrastructure as well as capacity building of the judicial officers in the State.

            The information was given at a high level meeting convened under the chairmanship of the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar.  Commissioner Secretary Law, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Tantray, and other senior officers were present.

            It was given out in the meeting that the amount released will cater to the construction of Morning/Evening courts, Lok Adalats/ Legal Aid Clinics, Heritage court buildings, State Judicial Academy, Alternate Dispute Resolution Centres, Training of judicial officers, Public Prosecutors and Court Managers.

            The meeting was also told that the government is also creating 36 courts of special mobile magistrates as well as additional special magistrates for which Rs. 32.61 crore stands earmarked. These courts are likely to become functional shortly and selection for Court Managers has been completed and their orders of appointment are likely to be issued by the high court.

            The 22 Alternate Dispute Resolution centres would also be established in the districts during the period 13^th Finance Commission Award for which construction has been already being initiated in 7 area centers, the meeting was told, it was also given out that State Judicial Academy would be completed before November, 2012.

            Later, the Minister visited the new complex of Jawahar Lal Nehru Memorial Hospital, Rainawari. He was accompanied by MD, JKPCC, Director Health Services Kashmir and other senior officers.

            The Minister instructed the officers to speed up the work on the phase IInd of the building so that it can be constructed within the stipulated time period. He said that the multi specialty hospital would go long way in providing quality Medicare facilities to the people of old city Srinagar. 

            Mr. Sagar also directed the concerned agencies to work in close coordination so that the new block is constructed according to the set parameters and in a speedy manner.  

Slathia for preserving artistic heritage of Kashmir branded handicrafts

Inaugurates Handloom Expo at Pahalgam

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27: Minister for Industries and Commerce, Mr. S. S. Slathia today called for exploring new and modern marketing channels to promote sale of state’s unique handicrafts and handlooms.

Speaking at a function after inaugurating weeklong Handloom Expo at world famous tourist resort, Pahalgam, the Minister said that holding of handloom sale-cum-exhibition events at various tourist places would provide plagteform to the a rtisans and weavers and would also help to boost sale of handicrafts among the tourists. He asked the Handloom Development department, Handloom Corporation and the Handicrafts Departments to formulate a yearly calendar for organizing Handloom and Handicrafts Expos regularly at different tourist places.

The Minister for Social Welfare, Ms Sakina Itoo was also present on the occasion.

Mr. Slathia urged for maintain quality of handicrafts and to check sale and manufacture of inferior quality handicrafts by the unscrupulous traders adding that services of law enforcing agencies including tourist, police and J&K Police need to be utilized for the purpose. He called for preserving artistic heritage of branded Kashmiri products like Poshmina shawls and Kani shawls. He said government has established a quality control laboratory in the Craft Development Institute to check quality of handicrafts.

Mr. Slathia said handloom and handicrafts are the reliable cottage industries which provides livelihood to a large chunk of population in the state. He asked the officers of handloom and handicrafts departments to provide artisan credit cards to the weavers to facilitate them avail hassle free loan facility from the Banking Institutions.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister for Social Welfare, ARI and Trainings, Ms Sakina Itoo praised the efforts of the Minister for industries and Commerce, which he is doing for upliftment of Industries sector in the state, especially in improving the socio-economic condition of artisans and weavers of the state.

Apart from a large number of weavers and tourists, the Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce, Mr. Shanatmanu, Director Industries and Commerce, Kashmir Mr. Mehraj-ud-Din Kenoo, Director, Handicrafts, Mr. Muzaffar Hussain, Managing Director Handloom Development Corporation, Mr. Showkat Ali, Managing Director SIDCO, Mr. Mauzam and Managing Director SICOP also were present in the occasion.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the Director Handloom Mrs. Chandra Gupta highlighted achievements made under different developmental schemes which are being implemented for welfare of handloom weavers, artisans of the state and asked weavers, artisans of the state to come and take the benefits of these schemes.

Jora for maintaining transparency in Cable Car works

Corporation earns Rs 13 cr revenue in first 3 months

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation has been given a target of Rs 23 crore for the current fiscal against Rs 22.78 crore during last fiscal. The Corporation has earned a revenue of Rs 12.93 crore during first three months of the current fiscal.

This was stated at the 30^th meeting of the Board of Directors of Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation Limited held here today under the Chairmanship Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora.

The Minister of State for Tourism Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani was also present.

The meeting took a detailed review of the status of various ropeway projects in the sate which include Rs 3.26 crore Makhdoom Sahib Ropeway Project, Ropeway Project Peerkho temple to Mahamaya Rs 4.50 crore ropeway projects at Aishmuqam, and ropeway project at Shiv Khori, Reasi.

The meeting was informed that the four seater fixed Grip Chairlift from Kongdori to Marrhshoulder has been completed within a span of 12 working months at a total cost of Rs s18 crore. It has 90 chairs with a length of 1650 meters with vertical rise of 498 meters having 16 towers. The meeting also discussed measures for upgrading and overhauling of the Gandola Project, Gulmarg. It was informed that the corporation has introduced e-governance and the tourists and skiers are now being provided boarding passes through online booking facility. The WIFI networking and time and attendance Management System for the employees have also been completed. The Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) has provided Rs 19 lakh while the Cable Car Corporation invested an amount of Rs 13 lakh for WIFI and the project has been implemented through Kashmir University.

The Board also approved incentive equal to 1 percent of the corporation annual revenue up to the maximum of Rs 23 lakh for the employees as token of appreciation and encouragement for working in extreme different conditions at the Gondola project.

It was informed that the Corporation ha insured its assets including new Chairlift at Kangdori.

The Commissioner Secretary Tourism Mr. Atul Dulloo, Director General Budgets, Mr. Mangotra, Managing Director J&K Cable Car Corporation, Mr. Talat Parvez, representatives of Planning and Development department and concerned officers of the Corporation also attended the meeting.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Jora urged for maintaining more transparency in the execution of various Cable Car related works and asked the corporation to update its accounts by the end of December.

Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani while hailing the work done by the employees of the Gulmarg Gandola ropeway project adding that they work in extreme difficult conditions.   

Centre’s interlocutors on Kashmir arriving in Srinagar

Will submit report to HM on feedback to specific recommendations: Padgaonkar

“Whenever Separatists get ready to meet us, we will be there”

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Government of India’s interlocutors on Kashmir are arriving in Srinagar on Wednesday to receive a feedback on the recommendations made by the panel in its report submitted to the Ministry of Home affairs last year.

“Myself and Radha Kumar will be arriving day after in Srinagar to get feedback on specific recommendations made by us in the report prepared by us earlier”, head of the panel, Dileep Padgaonkar told VOS over phone from New Delhi adding that earlier the discussions with different sections were general and broad based. However, Padgaonkar said the visit will be in their individual capacity and not as interlocutors.

Defending the absence of third interlocutor M M Ansari, Padgaonkar said he is busy with some other appointments in Hyderabad.

The interlocutors will meet leaders of different political leaders in the state during its 6 day visit to the state. “This time we will try to restrict our meetings with political leadership and will spend three days first in Srinagar and the next three days in Jammu”, Padgaonkar said.

Padgaonkar said Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde has asked them to prepare a report on the feedback received by them in the state during their visit. “After going through the report, future course of action will be decided by the Government of India”, he said.

When asked why the GoI was delaying implementation of recommendations made in their report, Padgaonkar said, “I can’t comment on this. Government has may other things on table. It is for them to decide how they are going to go about it.  5 reports are already on their table; however, the home minister has said he will give full attention to the issue after the parliament session is over”.

When asked if they have invited the separatist leadership for getting their point of view, Padgaonkar refused to confirm saying they have not received the list of people invited for consultations yet. However, he said if the separatist leaders invite them, they will be happy to meet them. “Whenever they are ready to meet us, we will be there for them”, he added. (VOS)

Fisheries Department under Scanner

50 lakh misappropriated, Minister Orders inquiry

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   A day after the CAG revelations exposed misdoings in the R&B sector, the state government has been caught napping on yet another bungling involving lakhs of rupees in the fisheries department.

Sources in the department revealed to VOS that almost 50 lakhs rupees released by the National Hydel Power Corporation for the maintenance of various channels across the valley have been misappropriated.

“During a cursory check up of works at the site, it was observed that the funds of Rs. 50 Lac released by the NHPC against the project cost of Rs. 211.41 lac under rehabilitation programme has not been utilized properly”, reads an official communiqué from Joint Director Planning Forest Department to the Director of the Fisheries Department vide his no. FST/ Plan-20/2009 dated 02-08-2012.

Sources within the department told VOS that the amount had been released to the fisheries department to execute the works at Salamabad Uri II on 17-07-2012.

However, the works were never executed and an amount of rupees 50 lakhs was withdrawn from the allotted project money. Consequently an enquiry committee was set up to probe the matter which evidently found that only 6 lac rupees were actually spent on works against the withdrawn amount of 50 lac.

“It was observed that hardly an amount of Rs 6 Lac only would have been expended against the released amount of Rs 50 lac” reads the letter signed by Joint Director Planning, Forest Departmnent, a copy of which lies with VOS.

Interestingly Director of the Fisheries department was asked to provide the break up of the expenditure, however the Joint Director has termed the reply of the Director as “unproductive/ Infractions” and has advised the Director to refer the case to State Vigilance Organization.

“Whereas you were expected to furnish the component-wise break up of the expenditure of rupees 50 lac vide letter of even No. dated 20-07-2012 followed by a reminder of even No. dated 2-8-2012” reads the from the Joint Director Planing Forests.

Advising the Director Fisheries to refer the case to Vigilance organization, JD (P) Forests has asked Director Fisheries to conduct a departmental inquiry into the matter and asked him to treat it as last opportunity for submitting the report of the expenditure.

Meanwhile Sources revealed to VOS that the matter was raised with the concerned Minster on whose instructions a high level enquiry committee has been framed vide letter No. DF/ Tech/12/559-62 dated 14-08-2012. The committee comprises P.K Dogra, Joint Director Fisheries, Mohd Shaban, Sr. Aquaculture Engineer, Mohd. Hussain Wani Asst Director Fishries Budgam and Nazir Ahmad Section Officer Planning and the report is still awaited, the sources added.

The employees and the officers of then Fisheries department, meanwhile, have accused Director Fisheries for covering up the mess. (VOS)

Participation of Kashmiris in talks mandatory: Hurriyat

‘LoC fencing unacceptable, impracticable’

While reiterating his demand for inclusion of Kashmirs in the talks between the governments of India and Pakistan, Hurriyat Conference faction led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has said the proposed fencing on LoC in unacceptable.

“Mirwaiz Umar Farooq today conducted an important meeting of the party executive members. The APHC executive meeting has expressed concern over the recent statement of Indian home secretary whereby he has unveiled the government of India’s plans to fence the LoC. The participants termed it as a negative process. They said on one hand talks are on to make the LoC irrelevant while as other plans are being formulated to make the barrier dividing Kashmir a solid permanent structure.”, read a statement issued by the Hurriyat Conference.
APHC while terming the fencing of LOC “unacceptable” said at a time when boundaries are mere lines on the map, such steps were meaningless and impracticable, the statement added.
During a meeting of the Hurriyat Executive held here, the participants discussed the future challenges faced by Kashmir keeping in the context of the new emerging political, economic and international scenarios around the globe and in the sub-continent.
The meeting hailed the efforts aimed to break the deadlock and improve the ties between the two nuclear neigbourers.

The participants observed that such steps would prove immensely helpful to solve the contending issues between the two nations and guarantees safe South Asia region in the future.
The participants, however, expressed caution that any such act should be prevented that would negatively impact the process of improving ties between the two South Asian countries.
The participants in the meeting stressed that those days are over when issues used to get solved by use of force on terror. They said particularly the political problems would get solved only and only through peaceful negotiations.
The hurriyat conference once again cleared that Kashmiris are the owners of Kashmir and whatsoever process would be iniitaiated to decide the their destiny they have to made the main party to that process.
Hence the APHC believes both India and Pakistan should make the particaption of Hurriyat mandatory in any dialogue process aimed to solve Kashmir tangle to make it meaningful result oriented.

JK Bank holding All India Gold Cup Football Tournament

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   “The first All India J&K Bank Gold Cup Football Tournament is proposed to be held in the month of October this year. India’s top teams including I-league teams like Air India, Mumbia FC, United Sikkim, Royal Wangdoh, Titanium FC and Punjab Police would be competing in this maiden tournament which is expected to emerge as one of the top national level tournaments. Notably, top 12 teams of J&K State would be participating in the tournament”, read the JK Bank statement issued to press.

“Even as the tournament was scheduled to be held in August, due to All India Postal Football tournament which is underway and School National Football tournament being played in the first week of September, the tournament was rescheduled,” said Mohammad Amin Khan, Sceretary J&K Bank Sports Board. He added that the players of various local players of super division teams would be busy as they have to join J&K Eleven which is playing an exhibition match against Mohan Baghan on September 8 and 11.

Notably, All India JK Bank Gold Cup football tournament is going to be a mega event and first of its kind after over decades. Football lovers are eagerly waiting for the event, as they are keen to see country’s top teams playing here in Srinagar.

Engineer aghast over sluggish pace of works

Plans protest drumming to awaken authorities

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Independent MLA representing the north Kashmir’s Langate Constituency, Er. Rashid has expressed grave concern over the slow progress in various ongoing projects under construction in Langate constituency.

He said that despite availability of funds to these projects the government machinery seems to be paralyzed and not taking any interest to ensure that public money is utilized in a proper way and these projects are completed in the stipulated time.

 MLA Langate alleged that from ministers to the bureaucrats and from engineers to contractors nobody seems to be worried about the problems of the common masses and fate of these prestigious projects remains hanging in balance.

 He alleged that criminal negligence on part of bureaucrats and contractors is already resulting in heavy cost escalation of these projects and also proves that huge and tall claims made by the government regarding carrying state forward in various fields proves to be nothing more than hallow slogans and is enough to prove that our govt. and its machinery is like those empty vessels which always make much noise. 

He said that in order to awaken these ministers and babus from the long sleep he has decided to knock their doors along with Panchs and sarpanchs by playing drums and lodging a peaceful protest.

He said that to begin with the first protest of its kind will be held by knocking the door of New Asian Construction Company’s owner who is constructing a prestigious bridge connecting the hamlets of Langate with those of Sopore at Pohru Nallah at Sonwani on which “work is on at a snails pace since last many years and target for the completion of the bridge has already expired despite availability of funds”.

He said that it is high time for the govt. to take stern action against these black sheep failing which we will not allow these people to play with the sufferings of the people and will try to ensure that public money is not being looted by only few corrupted and lethargic officersand contractors.

2 Die, 2 injured in road mishaps    

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):  Two people died while two others were injured in different road accidents across the Kashmir Valley.

Police said a Tractor bearing registration number JK03B/5207 hit a 04 years boy Ubaid Rashid Bhat son of Abdul Rashid resident of Banimulla near his residence at Banimulla, Kulgam, resulting in his on spot death. A case has been registered in this regard, it added.

According to police, in another accident, a Tata Mobile 407 Load Carrier turned turtle near Mangloora, Baramulla, in the jurisdiction of police station Kunzer. A police SPO Shabir Ahmad Bhat son of Mohammad Ashraf resident of Batamaloo No. 481/SPO traveling in the load carrier died on the spot in the mishap. Another person Mudasir Ahmad Bhat son of Mohammad Ashraf resident of Bemina was injured. The injured has been shifted to hospital for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard.

In another accident, a Maruti Van bearing registration number JKQ/6790 hit and injured a pedestrian Fatima, age 50 years, wife of Mohammad Akram Ganie resident of Bindoo Kokernag at Bindoo Anantnag. The injured has been shifted to hospital for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard, police added.    

Mufti visits Mehboob Iqbal and Khanyari Residence for condolence

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Peoples Democratic Party patron Mufti Mohammed Sayeed today visited the residences of senior bureaucrats Mehboob Iqbal and M Iqbal Khanyari to condole the death of Mehboob Iqbals Mother and Brother in law of Iqbal Khanyari, a party statement said.

Mufti conveyed his condolences and expressed his sympathies with the bereaved families. He also prayed to eternal peace of the departed souls, the statement added.

Situation shocking in Dal areas: Soz

Matter needs to be taken up by cabinet, Environment ministry

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Prof Saifuddin Soz, former Union Minister and President J&K Pradesh Congress Committee, extensively toured Mir Behri and other areas in the Dal today where several delegations of the people met and explained their difficulties.

“It is a shocking situation as the people of these areas living miserable life and faces much hardship. These people have no road connectivity, and live without any facilities of sanitation and facilities of Health care.  It is a very difficult situation as the future of thousands of people living in that area is directly connected with the future of Dal Lake”, read a statement issued to VOS by the JKPCC president.

“I have therefore, decided  to have wide ranging consultation with LAWDA      and other connected department and then decide  how amenities of life can be ensured for the people of Mir Behri and other areas”, Soz said.

He said “it is my definite opinion that the matter should be placed before the cabinet, so that a comprehensive decision for safeguarding  their future is ensured”.

I will also take up this matter with the Ministry of Environment & Forests and see whether it is possible for that Ministry to contribute towards resolution of the problems faced by the people in these areas, he said,

He was accompanied by Mohd Muzaffar Parray Senior Vice President, Khem Lata Wakhloo, Abdul Gani Khan District President, Farooq Andrabi, Anayatullah Rather, Dr. Sayeed, Aga Mohsin, Nissar Ahmad Khan,Fayaz Ahmad Mir and  others, the statement said.

Yasin Malik for unity among muslims

India, Pakistan should show magnanimity in resolving Kashmir

“The issue of Jammu Kashmir is posing a continues threat to the peace, stability, progress and prosperity of the subcontinent as well as the whole world and resolution of this issue is of  Enormous importance”, said Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Mohammad Yasin Malik while addressing a public gathering at Tulmula Ganderbal  today.

He was accompanied by JKLF leaders  Mohammad Yasin Butt , Sheikh Abdul Rashid, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, Sheikh Nazir Ahmad, Bashir Ahmad Kashmiri .Ganderbal District President Bashir Ahmad Rather (Boya) Mohammad Latif,  Giyas ud din and others .

In the back drop of proposed meetings between Indian and Pakistani leadership in Tehran and visit of Indian foreign minister to Pakistan Yasin Malik said,“Taking small steps or short term measures can never undermine the importance of the resolution of Kashmir issue. This issue is continues to  threat  the global peace, prosperity, and stability and without addressing it no one can ever achieve peace in south Asia and the world”.

Yasin said that India and Pakistan must recognize the owner status of the Kashmiri’s and with the active participation of Kashmiri’s should sit together and resolve this issue on preferred basis.

Yasin Malik said that Kashmiri’s welcome the friendship between India and Pakistan because the friendship or enmity of these countries has direct bearing on our poor nation.

He said that while we welcome this friendship and steps taken for it but at the same time the fact that no positive outcome is possible without addressing the core issue of Jammu Kashmir should be accepted and acknowledge by the leadership of India and Pakistan. Yasin said that kashmiri’s have seen the destruction of their four generations because of this long pending dispute and our only demand and wish is that this issue should be resolved on priority basis involving the principal party I.e. kashmiri’s into the resolution process. Yasin said that this was the only way to stabilize this whole region and ensure peace, stability and progress of millions of humans living in this region. Yasin sahib while appealing the Muslims of Jammu and Kashmir to maintain mutual harmony and brotherhood said that the differences that create conflict and division in the muslin society is not acceptable. Yasin Malik said that our Mimber o Mehrab should not promote the mutual hostility and conflict rather should these be used to promote unity of the Ummah. Yasin read out the recent resolution passed unanimously in a seminar by the ulema of all sects about the unity of Ummah which was endorsed by the people present in the Jalsa.

Defeat anti movement policies of government, Delhi: Nayeem Khan

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Senior Resistance Leader and National Front Chairman Nayeem Ahmad Khan, has appealed the party workers and the new generation of Kashmir to keep their eyes open so that anti movement policies of the state government and New Delhi are defeated.

He said this while winding up his two days detailed party visit to District Baramulla.

Khan said, “At at a time when leaders are facing curbs every now and then, pro freedom activists and the common masses have a greater responsibility. The curbs on leadership can never weaken the ongoing movement rather it unveils the hallow claims of New Delhi and it’s local collaborators”.

During the past two days Nayeem Ahmad Khan had four meetings with the District workers. He met a dozen delegations and detailed the current situation vis-à-vis Kashmir and the freedom movement. He assured the workers and the people that the ongoing resistance will continue despite all odds till the goal of freedom is achieved, said a party statement.

Pro-India faces sabotaging movement: Naqash

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Senior Hurriyat member and chief patron Islamic political party (JK) Mohammad Yousuf Naqash while interacting with people in the corner meetings on Sunday at Narbal and Magam said that Kashmiris are well aware about the local pro-India faces and their intentions.

“They are working as the puppets of Indian government to sabotage the ongoing movement and strengthen their illegal and forced occupation on Kashmir, with a begging bowl for chair and material benefits and are openly helping Indian forces unleash death, destruction and repression in Kashmir”, he said in a statement issued to VOS.

“It is the responsibility of every Kashmiri to take immediate cautious steps in denuding and unmasking these hidden and dangerous faces. Pakistan being the saviour and mentor of Kashmiri people has every moral obligation to differentiate between real and fake faces in this regard and not only maintain distance from the fake ones but also stop recognizing and supporting them because this has badly started impacting and affecting the deep rooted and strong emotional and Islamic links, affiliations and amities of Pakistan with Kashmiri people”, he added.

Inqilabi against making PaK a Pakistan province

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Chief Patron Jammu Kashmir Mahaz-e-Azadi (MeA) Muhammad Azam Inqilabi Monday expressed dismay over the reported statement in AJK Muslim conference rally at Neelabutt on 23 August that Pakistani government wants to make Pakistan Administered Kashmir as one of its provinces.

In a statement issued here, Inqilabi said, “If this news is true it shows that not only Pakistani government is non-serious about ideology of Pakistan but it will also deliver a big blow to Kashmir resistance movement.”

He said resistance leaders and activists here have been “taken aback” by this news.

MeA patron said peaceful, political resistance movement on both sides of LoC is necessary to take the struggle forward.

“Pakistani leadership should understand that any resistance initiative taken by Azad Kashmir is much better than conditional political, diplomatic and moral support of Pakistan,” he said.

MeA patron condemned the continuous detention of Dr. Qasim, Mushtaq-ul-Islam and Masarat Aalam and restrictions on resistance veteran Syed Ali Shah Geelani.

JK Bank inaugurates new premises at Handwara

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Shifting its old premises from Chinar Park, J&K Bank today inaugurated the new premises of Business Unit Handwara near Bus Stand for the people.

J&K Bank Zonal Head Kashmir (North) M S Kaboo cut ceremonial ribbons of the new state-of-the-art premises in presence of Cluster Head (III) Kupwara F A Sidiqi, B.U Head B A Shiekh and valuable clients, government officials and local residents of Tehsil Handwara.

 Speaking on the occasion Zonal Head said, “It is the moment of satisfaction to dedicate this state-of-the-art business unit to the people of Handwara.”

He urged the people to avail the benefits of the products and services of the bank. He also informed the public that the Bank is dedicated to provide world-class banking facilities and services to its valuable customers. T

Shortly after the ceremony, Zonal Head convened a customer meet along with Cluster Head and Head of the B.U.

Many issues were raised by the customers which, were addressed on spot. The customers were satisfied by the on spot resolution of the queries and issues raised. 

Cluster Head presented the vote of thanks in the end.

Meanwhile, the Bank organized an awareness camp at Nandimarg, Kulgam.

The camp conducted by FLCC Kulgam was attended by all walks of the people.

Facilitator Abdul Rashid highlighted all the financial services and products including deposit schemes available with the banks operating within the catchment area of district Kulgam.

Almost all the schemes tailored for the people living below poverty line were discussed threadbare. The people were made to understand the importance of opening and maintenance of bank accounts.

Those present in the camp including Sarpanch Sher Mohd Gorsy requested for more such camps so that the people are made thoroughly aware about the benefits of the schemes available with the Banks. 

 Amarnath traders want SASB to be restricted to cave site

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   The Annual function of union of all representatives of Shri Amaranth Yatra stakeholders was held at Pahalgam, in which various problems faced by the traders were discussed.

“No permission, no motor able  road from chandanwari to holy cave and interfere of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board in state administration regarding permissions were discussed in the  in this meeting, held at town hall Pahalgam”, said a statement issued after the meeting.

The members in the meeting demanded that the influence of the shrine board should be restricted to the cave site only.

Situation shocking in Dal areas: Soz

Matter needs to be taken up by cabinet, Environment ministry

Srinagar, Aug. 27 (VOS):   Prof Saifuddin Soz, former Union Minister and President J&K Pradesh Congress Committee, extensively toured Mir Behri and other areas in the Dal today where several delegations of the people met and explained their difficulties.

“It is a shocking situation as the people of these areas living miserable life and faces much hardship. These people have no road connectivity, and live without any facilities of sanitation and facilities of Health care.  It is a very difficult situation as the future of thousands of people living in that area is directly connected with the future of Dal Lake”, read a statement issued to VOS by the JKPCC president.

“I have therefore, decided  to have wide ranging consultation with LAWDA      and other connected department and then decide  how amenities of life can be ensured for the people of Mir Behri and other areas”, Soz said.

He said “it is my definite opinion that the matter should be placed before the cabinet, so that a comprehensive decision for safeguarding  their future is ensured”.

I will also take up this matter with the Ministry of Environment & Forests and see whether it is possible for that Ministry to contribute towards resolution of the problems faced by the people in these areas, he said,

He was accompanied by Mohd Muzaffar Parray Senior Vice President, Khem Lata Wakhloo, Abdul Gani Khan District President, Farooq Andrabi, Anayatullah Rather, Dr. Sayeed, Aga Mohsin, Nissar Ahmad Khan,Fayaz Ahmad Mir and  others, the statement said.

PDP’s assertions vindicate latest CAG report: Mehbooba

‘Alienation among people has increased due to governance deficit, rampant corruption’

Srinagar, Aug 27 (VOS): Taking a strong exception to the developmental deficit facing J&K, Mehbooba Mufti, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president today said the present government is pursuing only those developmental schemes wherein the money allocated goes into the pockets of ruling politicians and their favourite contractors.

Mehbooba said that PDP’s assertions have been vindicated by the latest CAG report which has indicted the National Conference led government for its failure to implement the centrally sponsored schemes in the state.

She said this after culminating her two-day tour to Islamabad (Anantnag) and Wachi constituencies in South Kashmir. Mehbooba said there is complete neglect and increasing developmental deficit that is causing tremendous miseries to the people. “The plan funds are being used as secret funds to appease their own political constituencies and favorite contractors at the cost of genuine contractors who are suffering for want of work and pending bills,” she observed.

“During the last three years and half years, alienation among people has been increasing due to governance deficit and rampant corruption,” she observed while adding that the present regime has failed to bring transparency and accountability in governance.

“Corruption has been legitimized in Jammu and Kashmir because those at the helm of the affairs are themselves deep necked involved in corruption,” she said and added that the names of higher-ups in the government have also figured in a number of corruption cases.

Mehbooba said people of the Anantnag district suffer due to paucity of drinking water, choked drainage system and frequent curtailment in power supply even in metered areas. Pointing out the developmental projects started during PDP led regime, she said the same are hanging in balance due to mis-governance of the present regime.

She said that work on some major projects in district Anantnag including 300 bedded hospital which PDP had planned to associate with Government Medical College is starved of funds and the work is being done on snail’s pace. Similarly, she remarked that the work on South campus of Kashmir University which was visualized by PDP as a knowledge hub and centre for skill development so that its pass outs could get jobs easily is paralyzed and not being implemented on PDP’s envisioned planned lines.

She said that her party had four years back sanctioned water supply scheme from Ganesh Pora to villages especially for Kihirbal but no work has been started on this scheme sofar. “The same way remains Martand canal which is a lifeline for agriculture for most parts of the South Kashmir. This canal has been repaired not even once during last four years neither de-silted or cleaned, which has resulted in drastic drop in its water carrying capacity. This inaction of the government has rendered many areas in South Kashmir without irrigation facility,” she rued.

Referring to new revelations about Government’s failures on road sector and the inefficiency and corruption that is rampant in the R&B, Ms Mehbooba said it seems the mis-governance syndrome in J&K has become irreversible.

She said though the construction season is nearing an end and winter round the corner, Kashmir has fallen aside without substantial growth and developmental improvement. She said it seems the malaise is more rampant in the core departments like R&B, Power and Education. “Perhaps it is because of inaccessibility to the people and lack of political direction from the chief minister to the officials which is of crucial importance in creating an atmosphere for fast pace development,” she observed.

Referring to various media reports, the PDP president said that the present government has subverted procedures and it was unfortunate that its (NC led government) inability has shelved many vital projects funded by the central government.

“Like in other parts of the state, Wachi is suffering from government neglect and developmental deficit. It is all because of mis-governance and rampant corruption which has been well described in latest CAG report,” she said.

Mehooba said that there are reports that in R&B department tenders are not being invited and wherever they are, for months together works are pending execution.

Referring to media report about latest CAG report by virtue of which the Government of India has barred State Government from giving approval to the R&B projects Ms Mehbooba said the revelations that State Government has been indicted for flouting norms in the R&B sector causing loss of hundreds of Crores to State exchequer is disgraceful.

She said the present state government has also miserably failed in achieving the targets in respect of roads under various centrally sponsored schemes. The PDP president said that the present government can in no way deny the CAG report as the important facts mentioned in the report are enough for people to realize how correct the planning commission of India has been in the assessment of this government’s performance as reported widely by the newspapers. She said the times have changed when the people were hoodwinked by false statistics handed out by government as they have suffered every moment of misery under this dispensation.

Pointing out various problems faced by people, Ms Mehbooba said that people of her constituency are facing tremendous hardships for want of basic amenities. Ms Mehbooba while visiting Mirgund , Seepan.               ,   Chee       ,Anchidora,  ,Anzulla, Pehru, Krangsoo ,        Rampora, Shilpora, Kihirbal,Wantrag , Ashajipora,Dabruna   , Utrasoo        ,Bangi Nowgam m  Ruhoo and Monghall of Annatnag and Kumdalan, Manzimpara, Check Sidiq Khan, Kharwara, Landoora          ,Nildoora, Hajipora, Chakoora, Harmain, Reshipora, Harmain, Wangipora, Muradpora, Chakoo, Allora, Alamgunj, D K Pora, Gahand , Nagisharan Bala and Tachloo of Wachi Constituency was appalled by the indifference of the state government towards the problems of the people. She said though the working season in the valley is almost nearing its end not a single stone has been lifted since the darbar move from Jammu to Srinagar, She was accompanied by District General secretary Shopian Gh Mohiudin Wani, Adv javaid and Imran Amin of Anantnag.

She added that be it the main roads like Sheikhpora -Imam Sahib, Trenz -Turkawangam, Vehil- Nihama or interior roads like Dangam -Ratnipora , Hermain- Kumdalan- Nildoora or Adijan-Kanjiullar or any other road for that matter the present government has done hardly  any thing for the upgradation of these roads during the last almost four years of their tenure. Even the roads approved under NABARD and the one’s tendered, the work has not been started for reasons best known to the government.

On this occasion she announced that PDP patron Mr Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, has released Rs 35 lakhs for Anantnag constituency  from his Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and she herself has relase Rs 25 Lakhs for Wachi constituency from her CDF during the current year.

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