Times of Ladakh 15 Jul 2016 Issue

Leh, Friday 15, July, 2016

Times of LADAKH lE-Mail: morupstanzin@gmail.com l Published from Jammu l Leh l Vol: 1 l No. 6 l Pages: 8 l Price: ` 5

Sakya Tseschen Leksphel holds 3-day teaching session on Buddhism.... pg3

44TH Sakya Ratna Vajra inaugurates roller-skating Sonam Dawa visits far-off hamlets rink, basketball court at Lamdon School.... pg4 of Skyu-Markha Constituency... pg 5

Religious festivity, zeal mark beginning of 2-day Hemis festival THOUSANDS THRONG LADAKH’S BIGGEST MONASTERY TO WITNESS SPECTACULAR CELEBRATIONS LEH: The legendary Hemis festival popularly known as Hemis Tses-Chu began here today to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, the eight centuries old Indian Guru revered for spreading Tantrayana Buddhism in the entire Himalayas.

The Mountain valley of Hemis was surrounded with the melodious music and voices of people chanting prayers while the fragrance of incenses grasped the entire valley with its scented aroma. This year’s special attraction was the display of Guru Padmasambhava’s silken image which is showcased once every 12 years. This marvelous image, a patched work of the finest Chinese silk in various colours

believed to prepared between 1750-1760 under the guidance of Gyalsras Mipham Tsewang,

the royal monk regarded as the third incarnation of the great Dragon Yogi Stagtsang Raspa.

Thousands of devotees amidst religious festivity thronged Ladakh’s biggest

Monastery-Hemis to witness the spectacular mask dances performed by the monks with the rhythmic beats of religious musical instruments and chanting of prayers for peace, prosperity and harmony.

Vibrant mask dance by monks of the monastery attired in their best robes with different gestures of hands and legs signifying good prevailing over evils captivated the visitors.

The first mask dance comprised of thirteen black hat dancers followed by sixteen dancers wearing copper gilded masks and then it was the eight manifestations of Guru Padmasambhava followed by Guru Padma Vajra.

While greeting the people on the auspicious occasion of Hemis festival, His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpoche said that keeping the centuries old tradition alive, we celebrate this annual festival which is most popular not only in Ladakh but all over the world to pay homage to the Padmasambava who was also considered as second

Education Deptt, Cultural Academy organize Cultural Festival 4 Transfer culture, traditions to generation next; says Dr Dawa LEH: To enthuse interest and provide knowledge about rich traditions and vibrant culture of the region among students, Education Department with the support of Cultural Academy held a daylong cultural festival here at Cluster Resource Centre at Housing Colony. Eight schools participated in the event.

The festival witnessed a unique dress code with participants including chief guest LAHDC Leh CEC Dr. Sonam Dawa Lonpo draped in traditional dresses enjoyed vibrancy of Ladakh through ethnic food, dresses and antiques. Various competitions were held among teachers and students adding excitement among all present

during the event.

Dr. Dawa appreciating the endeavour of Education

Department emphasized upon transferring the cultural heritage to younger generation through CMYK

such efforts. Underlining the need of such innovative methods to impart education to stu-

dents, he said that onus of transferring cultural heritage to students lies on teachers.

Mentioning about importance of dress code, Dr. Dawa informed that Hill Council had already decided to wear traditional dress on every Monday and he assured to talk with Deputy Commissioner to follow such procedure in all government departments. He also assured to keep special funds allocation in Hill Council plan to promote culture, language and traditions.

Sangeet Natak Academy Awardee Mipham Otsal said Ladakh’s culture is our identity which strengthens us to counter all the challenges. “Language and script are the roots of any

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Times of LADAKH Editorial ENDANGERING COMMUNAL HARMONY

I

ndia is a land of unity in diversity with people belonging to different religions, besides varied social and cultural backgrounds living harmoniously since centuries. Unfortunately the subcontinent has been marred by communal violence rather religious violence on many occasions and the worst being the violence at the time of partition in 1947. Despite being proud of our performance as the largest democracy of the world we feel disappointed with isolated instances of religious violence occasionally even after independence especially when these incidents are drawing criticism from our adversaries across the globe particularly those who have the worst and dubious records pertaining to human rights. It is really most unfortunate when tension erupts in a state like J&K where father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi had seen a ray of hope emanating when the rest of the subcontinent was witnessing religious violence at the time of partition. Although the state has an untarnished record of communal harmony after independence but there are elements bent upon attempting to tarnish the image of the state on this count. Presently too when tragic deaths have taken place in the valley during the past few days and the situation being quite tense there are elements who are hell bent upon creating a communal divide out of this tragic situation. Though the nation has moved ahead despite being faced with major threats of Communal violence, yet the factor has definitely impacted the socioeconomic development of the nation to some extent in the effected areas across the nation. The state of Jammu and Kashmir during the violence perpetrated by terrorists from across the border has already witnessed the worst form of communal violence in nineties when the minorities had to flee the Valley to save their lives. Today again there are threats to the communal harmony in the state which neither the state nor the nation can afford. Despite isolated religious disturbances in the state on various occasions including those in the past few days the imminent dangers to harmony cannot be undermined especially in view of the ulterior motive of our neighbour which keeps an eye on every opportunity to be exploited. Despite having legal provisions in the form of constitutional guarantees to ensure communal harmony, the recurring communal riots prove that the existing provisions are insufficient to prevent communal clashes in India. Therefore there is a dire need for active role to be played by autonomous bodies like National Human Rights Commission of India, the National Commission for Minorities and even the Non-Governmental Organisations at the ground level. The role of NGOs in this regard is most significant as sporadic and sometimes serious acts of religious violence tend to occur at the grass root level. Besides this efforts should be initiated to bring in such legislations that could prove beneficial in reducing the scope for communal violence. Though there have been a number of attempts to promulgate laws on the subject from time to time but the efforts ended in vain. The bills in this regard included the UPA government's Communal violence (Suppression) Bill rejected due to legal faults followed by Communal violence (Prevention, Control and Rehabilitation) Bill introduced in Parliament in 2005 that was referred to the parliamentary committee for review and the Prevention of communal and targeted violence (Access to Justice and reparations) Bill, 2011 introduced in the Parliament with an agenda to prevent communal clashes. Though the aforesaid bills fizzled out due to whatever reasons, it is expected that the nation brings legislation after meticulous deliberations with legal experts and draft the bill with utmost precision so that we do have a law here that successfully washes away the scope of communal or religious violence anywhere in India. For the time being it is hoped that the people in the valley especially the parents pay heed to the consistent appeals of the CM Mehbooba Mufti and not allow anyone to play with the future of their children and persuade them not to resort to violence. After all, violence does not achieve anything but only results in bloodshed. Let all the stakeholders uphold and keep intact the glory of this state highlighted by father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi in 1947.

Eid-ul-Fitr: The festival of love, harmony E

id- ul- Fitr is celebrated by the Muslims all over the world on the first day of Shawal which is the 10th month of Islamic calendar. The word Eid means happiness and ‘fitr’ is derived from the word ‘Iftar’ which is the meal for breaking the fast during the holy month of Ramazan.

Ramazan is a month in which Muslims keep fast called roza from dawn to dusk. They spend most of their times in prayers, reading Quran and helping the needy. The believers restrain from prohibited deeds and take care of each other. All efforts of holy Ramazan are aimed at strengthening of spirit and spiritualism and in weakening the forces of desire.

Allah has explained the importance of self purification in Surah al shamas of holy Quran.

He says that only those who purify themselves and be spiritually strong are successful. Eid is celebrated to thank Allah for the blessings and bounties of Ramazan. Muslims express their gratitude for this holy month for their selfpurification and strengthening of virtues.

On the last evening of the holy month of Ramazan people wait for the crescent moon of the month of Shawal. As soon as the moon is sighted, a wave of happiness spreads and the greetings of Eid Mubarak echo everywhere. There are Hilal committees in every area which include prominent religious leaders, priests and moulvies of the place. They collect information and confirm the sighting of the moon. On the occasion of Eid Muslims assemble at EidGah in the morning where they offer Eid’s ceremonial prayers (Namaz e Eid).

After finishing the prayer, they hug each other and wish Eid Mubarak.

Eid-ul-Fitr truly represents the values of

sharing happiness with the needy. Before the Eid prayers people give some charity to the poor people called as Fitrah so that everyone irrespective of their financial conditions can relish the bounties of Allah on Eid. This festival is also signified by various mouthwatering delicacies with non vegetarian dishes being common among all the places. In Indian subcontinent a special sweet dish called sewaiyan is prepared for Eid. Due to this tradition Eid-ulFitr is also called Meethi (sweet) Eid. Other than sewaiyan sweet dishes like sheer khurma(a custard made of milk dates) and phirni are also enjoyed. Like other parts of the world, the festival is celebrated with zest and zeal in Ladakh. The preparations for the festival start many days before the Eid. People clean their homes and buy new clothes. Markets are filled with people buying different things. On the day of Eid ladies cook delicious food mostly non vegetarian. Qahwa and snacks are also served. There is also a tradition of applying Henna (mehendi) by young girls and ladies.

People go to meet their relatives and greet them Eid Mubarak. Also people from other religions come to give Eid wishes to their Muslim friends and acquaintances. The little children clad in new and bright clothes come to their elders and wish them Eid Mubarak.

The elders of the family give them some amount of money which is called Eidi as a token of love and affection.

The festival of Eid-ul-Fitr is a festival of love and brotherhood. The festival signifies that we should express for the blessings bestowed on us by the divine and also share them with the needy.

Written by KausarRazavi

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

THESE PLANTATION DRIVES...?

Dear Editor,

F

or the past few years we have been witnessing that come monsoon and rains, the central as well as the state governments launch massive plantation drives in the name of "green and clean cities" but these drives seem to be more of publicity overdrives thus leaving the planted saplings to the mercy of God thereafter. Through the medium of your esteemed newspaper I would like to point out that if one goes by the statistics available the saplings of all types planted annually since 1951, then today there should have been no place left vacant without trees across the nation. During such plantation drives tree saplings are mostly planted along all the major highways and other places of public gatherings including parks and even the mountain strips close to the cities and towns. Nowadays under the social forestry scheme there is hardly any residential locality where the drive is not carried on but unfortunately without any after care.

I would like to question the concerned authorities in the central as well as state governments as to how they can justify and explain the reduction of the green cover across the nation despite such massive plantations. The situation as it exists today is a clear indication of public money having been squandered by the Forest Departments of various states during all these decades. Who is to be held responsible and accountable for such a large scale fraud committed on the poor tax payers? Will it be the political leadership or bureaucracy or technocrats? Through the medium of this esteemed newspaper I appeal to the RTI activists to raise an RTI queries in this regard against all the state governments and the central government.

Er. Deepika Matanhelia, Gurgaon, Haryana.

CMYK

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SAVE holds seminar on empowering Changthang DEACHEN CHUSKIT LEH: Student Association for Village Education (SAVE) in collaboration with Ladakh Drayang (Lalok) organized a daylong seminar on empowering Changthang (remote village) at Sheynam Committee Hall on Sunday. Kyabjay Thuksay Rinpochay was the chief guest while Dorjay Motup EC Works was the guest of honour. Tsering Gyalpo SSP Leh and Executive Councilors from Nyoma and Durbuk blocks besides Professors from CIBS School were also present.

The seminar was divided into two sessions, in the first session three prominent speakers Khenpo T. Namgyal, Jigmet Mingur and Urgain Chorol (member of BJP Mahela Mandal) talked on different topics like casteism, scope of Sowa Rigpa (Traditional treatment) and role of women in politics respectively.

Namgyal said that with awareness among masses due to spread of education, casteism has no relevance in the present day world. “People nowadays have understood the value of education and that should be the only benchmark for judging anybody’s talent”, added Namgyal. Jigmet while divulging on the scope of Sowa Rigpa, demanded that Government of India should also give recognition to this traditional treatment

system on the lines of Ayurveda because despite being different from Ayurveda it has its own relevance. Urgain Chorol said that politics could play a vital role in the development of regions. “Empowerment of Changthang will only be possible if people unite for the cause to get Changthang the status of Division”, he added.

The second session started with the brief introduction of SAVE and Ladakh Drayang by their presidents followed by Thuksay Rinpochay’s enlightening talk on youth, moral education and modernization. Requesting people to avoid meat and alcohol, he said that being a follower of Buddha, we should have a kind heart garnished with adorable behaviour.

He said Ladakhis need not to adopt birth control measures since population here is very low. “Though it is important as far as country is concerned but for the sake of religion and region we should think otherwise”, he added. Dorjy Motup shared his views on education in Changthang. He said that education in Changthang as compare to other villages is not good and needs added focus. Prof Tsering Choldon talked on career opportunities in political science and Konchok Stanzin Councilor Chuchul dwelt on empowerment of Changthang. Around 60 students attended the seminar.

Fire & Fury Corps reaches out to veterans, ESMs of Durbuk, Tangtse

LEH: Fire and Fury Corps organised a rally for veterans and Ex-servicemen (ESM) of Durbuk and Tangtse Blocks at Durbuk on Wednesday. General Officer Commanding Fire and Fury Corps inaugurated the rally that witnessed a strength of over 1,400 veterans from the far flung areas of Durbuk and Tangtse Blocks.

The event embarked with a captivating performance by Funchuk Ladakhi who struck a chord with the locals when he sung the Ladakhi Regimental song. To add

to the merriment of the day, the visitors were enthralled by two group dance performances by Government Middle School, Tharuk and KGBV School, Tangtse.

The Sarpanch of Durbuk and Tangtse Block reiterated the value of the inseparable bond between the Army and the residents of Eastern Ladakh since independence.

He also thanked the Army for all the meaningful assistance provided over the years.

Later, the Corps Commander felicitated the Veer Naris, veterans and

the Sarpanchs. He also presented the locals with Ice Hockey kits, Electric cable for Solar Power Plant, Computers, Photocopiers, School furniture, Water pumps, wheel chairs and walkers for specially abled persons and also dedicated numerous ‘Sadbhavana’ projects in order to improve their quality of life.

The locals thereafter took advantage of the various educative, motivating and recruitment related stalls established at the venue.

The medical camp at the rally received huge response wherein over 300 locals sought treatment and medical advice.

In his thanks giving speech, the Corps Commander appreciated the locals for their gracious and helpful attitude towards the Armed forces and assured them of all the help from the Indian Army for their betterment. He also lauded the efforts of the local formations in empowering the locals in such an inhospitable and harsh terrain.

3-day Passport Seva Camp begins LEH: Three days passport Seva Camp being organized by passport office, Srinagar for the people of Leh and Kargil districts was inaugurated by Chief Executive Councilor LAHDC, Leh Dr. Sonam Dawa Lonpo at Information Technology Centre, mini secretariat, near council Secretariat, here today.

Executive Councilor Agriculture Tsering Wangdus, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Leh Mouzes Kunzang, Passport Officer, Srinagar Firdos Iqbal.

The CEC appreciated the efforts of passport office, Srinagar for organizing

this camp in Leh as this will help Ladakhis to get their new passports besides facility to renew the older ones.

Passport Officer, Srinagar apprised the CEC that the main objective of the camp is to sort out the in-convenience of the passport applicants of Leh and Kargil districts. He informed that it is second time when Seva Camp is organized at Leh. Last year also 3000 applications were processed during the similar camp. The first day witnessed huge response of the applicants.

Sakya Tseschen Leksphel holds 3-day teaching session on Buddhism ‘FOLLOW LORD BUDDHA’S TEACHINGS TO ATTAIN BLISS, CONTENTMENT’ LEH: Sakya Tseschen Leksphel Tsogspa Leh held three days teaching session here at Chowkhang Vihara. On the first day of teaching today Ratna Vajra Sakya Rinpochey imparted introductory teaching on Buddhism and Avalokiteshvara’s empowerment.

He emphasized that every sentient being in the universe is longing for happiness and nobody wants suffering however most of the people without knowing the right way to attain happiness go in wrong direction thus earning negative merits in life leading to sufferings. “ Lord Buddha has clearly shown the right

path to attain happiness therefore we must follow his teachings to attain bliss and contentment”, he maintained adding that there is no magical power or short cut available to attain happiness.

He said that desire, hatred and jealousy are the main causes of suffering so people should not allow these bad virtues to overpower their minds rather they should follow Lord Buddha to attain happi-

ness.

On Sunday, Ratna Vajra Sakya Rinpochey shall impart HayagrivaVajrapani-Garuda’s empowerment followed by special teachings to youth brigade.

Interacting with media Sakya Tseschen Leksphel Tsogspa President Tsewang Nurboo informed that this teaching is being organized by Tsogspa having 57 members for the peace and prosperity of entire sentient beings.

Owned and Published by YDA, Hemis Complex Zangsti Upper Tukcha Road Leh Ladakh J&K Pin-194101, Phone 01982-251536, Mobile 9906988616, E-Mail: yda.ladakh@gmail.com, morupstanzin@gmail.com Editor: Morup Stanzin, Reporter: Deachen Chuskit, Layout Designer: Kanish Sharma, Printed at Early Times Printing Press, Samadhian Road, Jammu.

CMYK

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44TH Sakya Ratna Vajra inaugurates roller-skating rink, basketball court at Lamdon School

Nepali Livestock Development Ministry team visiting on July 20 4 Showcase Ladakh’s potential to promote export: Dr Dawa

DEACHEN CHUSKIT LEH: 44th Sakya Ratna Vajra on Thursday inaugurated rollerskating rink and basket ball court here at Lamdon Model Higher Secondary School (LMHSS).

President of Ladakh Buddhist Association Tsewang Thinles, Cultural Academy Officer Tsewang Paljor and Padmashri Morup Namgyal alongwith few volunteer doctors also accompanied Ratna Vajra during the inauguration.

Principal LMHSS Ishey Tondup while delivering the vote of thanks gave an overview of the school. He said that at the beginning there were only few students and now after 44 years of establishment the number has swelled to around 2000 with 7 branches at different villages.

President Lamdon Welfare Society Tsewag Nurbo asserted

that Lamdon is not a society of three or four members rather it is a society of all the Ladakhi people. He proudly informed that many former students of this school have voluntarily joined hands with the management to upgrade the school and work in the direction to further the cause of imparting quality education.

Founding member of LMHSS Padmashri Morup Namgyal also congratulated the students and staff members for their hard work in maintaining the quality of education and standard of teaching in the school. LBA President Tsewang Paljor appreciated Principal LMHSS for providing students and teachers all the facilities and edifice required for imparting quality education.

On the occasion, the school management also felicitated few

‘Work in tandem to connect every single village with BSNL network' LEH: MP Ladakh Thupstan Chhewang asked the stakeholders to work in tandem for achieving cent per cent mobile connectivity through BSNL network in every single village of Ladakh region in the coming days.

He said this while chairing the Telephone Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), Ladakh here on Monday. He is also the Chairman of the aforesaid Committee. He asked the officers of BSNL headed

by TDM, Ladakh, Phunchok Dorjey to give their best in providing reliable communication facilities to the residents of Ladakh.

After thematic discussion on the upcoming 28 Mobile Towers in Ladakh under Ministry of Home Affairs at Indo-China border, 162 Mobile Towers under Universal Service Obligation (USO) meant for those villages which are financially

non-viable due to low population and very high operational cost and 117 DSPTs for Ladakh, Chhewang directed TDM and TAC Members to convene a meeting of all the TAC Members to finalize the list of the towers and DSPTs so that these could be installed soon. The TAC member Shaam Region Councilor Skurbuchan Phuntsog Stanzin, TAC Member Councilor Martselang Jamyang Tsering Namgyal and TAC Member Nubra Nubra Stanzin Delik also gave their suggestions and inputs for further improvement of telecommunication services in their respective areas.

The meeting also reviewed the Action Taken-cum-Progress Report of BSNL in reference to the meeting of MOC&IT with the delegation of Ladakh region led by MP Ladkah T. Chhewang regarding improving telecom connectivity held in the month of December, 2015.

trainers from abroad and some volunteer doctors for their support in the smooth functioning of the school.

Speaking on the occasion, Ratna Vajra emphasized on significance of education. He said that true knowledge can only be attained through proper education. “To become a scholar we need to study and work hard. Knowledge is a treasure which nobody can steal and remain at behest for the entire life. This is the key to happiness and contentment”, he asserted adding that good intention, nice behavior and selfless heart can make this world a better place to live.

A scintillating cultural programme by the students followed by National Anthem marked the culmination of the programme.

LEH: Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC, Leh Dr. Sonam Dawa Lonpo on Tuesday asked all the stakeholders of Agriculture and allied sectors to gear up for showcasing Ladakh’s potential to 15-member delegation from the Ministry of Livestock Development Department of Nepal visiting Leh on July 20.

He was addressing a meeting of all the Executive Councilors and HoDs of Sheep Husbandry, Animal Husbandry, Handloom, Handicraft and representatives of All Changthang Pashmina Grower Cooperative Society (ACPGCS) convened specially to discuss the preparations before the arrival of the Nepali delegation.

Highlighting the objectives of visiting team working on Himalayan region of Nepal for the employment generation and livelihood improvement of the Himalayan people through the flow of grants in more than 41 agriculture, livestock and herbal products including commercial

sheep and goat farming, Dr. Dawa said that it is a great opportunity for people of Leh to exhibit the potential of the district in agriculture and allied sectors to the visiting delegation. He directed concerned ECs and officers to be ready to showcase their respective units and farms with latest data of raw and finished products which could be exported to Nepal. He further added that visit of Nepali team will open trade linkage and technology exchange between Ladakh and Nepal.

The meeting decided to demonstrate Pashmina Dehairing Plant, working system of ACPGCS, Pashmina products units, showrooms of Handloom and Handicraft departments, Upshi Farm, Nomadic Life at Samad area of Changthang, Yak Cheese product in Tangtse region, Yak and Camel wool products at Nubra Diskit, Farms of Agriculture and Horticulture department and SKUAST Leh to the visiting Nepali delegation.

Rancho's School holds 2nd annual white lotus fete & expo

LEH: To connect school with the community, Druk Padma Karpo School celebrated its 2nd Annual White Lotus Fete and Expo with great pomp and show here at Shey. Scores of people and students from difCMYK

ferent parts of District visited the Fete. Variety of food stalls, talent shows, art & crafts stalls, exiting games, horse riding, rock show, lottery, have been installed by the senior students of DPKS with the guidance of

DPKS teachers.

The collections during the Fete is supposed to help the needy students and for improving school infrastructure.

Stanzin Kunzang Principal DPKS said that aim of this Fete is to bring the community closure and dispense information about schools ideology and policy.

Thinles Angmo, a student of DPKS stationed at Art & Crafts stall said by organizing such events students get opportunity to groom by interacting with people who came from different parts of Leh. DC Leh Prasana Ramaswami G and SSP Leh T. Gyalpo accompanied by the Principal took a round of the school and inspired the students to continue to participate in such endeavours to hone their skills.

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First ever Ladakh Polo Festival commences at Chochot 'WILL GO LONG WAY IN PROMOTING HERITAGE SPORT, RICH CULTURE'

LEH: The first ever Ladakh Polo Festival commenced here at Shagaran, Chuchot Yogma on Monday. The festival has been organised by Indus Chuchot Polo Club under the Chuchot Village Welfare Project was inaugurated by CEC, LAHDC Leh Dr. Sonam Dawa, who was the chief guest on the occasion while Nawang Rigzin Jora, MLA Leh was the guest of honour. The event is being sponsored by Overland Escape, a Leh based Travel Company.

Dr. Dawa said that this festival is a great initiative for preserving heritage sport. He asked the teams to wear traditional dresses during the

matches to inspire the generation next towards this majestic sporting event.

He applauded the organisers, sponsors and villagers of Chuchot for their endeavour in ensuring cultural preservation and promotion.

He anticipated that soon teams from Ladakh will participate in national polo matches. “This step will surely help in enhancing tourist footfall in Chuchot”, he asserted.

Terming the Polo Festival as a great public initiative, Jora said that soon the polo matches played in the festival will woo tourists to this village and the effort will prove fruitful in tapping tourism besides ensuring

Thupstan Chhewang visits Kargil District, listens to problems of people KARGIL: Member Parliament Ladakh Thupstan Chhewang during his ongoing tour of Kargil District visited Hinaskot, Bodh Kharboo, Wakha, Mulbekh, Lotsum and Pashkum villages.

During his tour MP Ladakh held public congregations at these villages and took stock of the people's issues and grievances. The villagers apprised the MP about several issues like the repair and renovation of irrigational khuls, provision of drinking water facilities, installation of mobile towers, better healthcare facilities in hospitals, shortage of staff, provision of ambulances in hospitals, etc.

Giving assurance regarding early redressal of these grievances, Thupstan also announced Rs 2.00 lakh for the repair and renovation of Wakha Irrigation Khul out of his MPLAD fund. He also announced to provide funds for Namling Thang Irrigation Khul. Responding to the concern of the public of Bodh

Kharboo about staff playing truancy in education, health and other departments, Thupstan assured strict action against the defaulters.

Addressing a public gathering at Mulbekh Thupstan assured focused attention on every village besides sufficient funds. He further said that 21 more BSNL towers are being installed at different locations in the district to improve mobile services.

Later, he called on the President Hozia Ilmia Asna Ashriya, Islamia School Kargil Hujjatul Islam Wal Muslameen Sheikh Nazir Ul Mehdi Mohammadi at Islamia School Campus and had a detailed discussion on the development profile of Kargil. On this occasion General Secretary Islamia School Kargil Hujjatul Islam Wal Muslameen Sheikh Ibrahim Khalili, President BJP Kargil Haji Ghulam Mohamamd Khuddam and executive body of BJP Kargil.

amity and bonhomie among the stakeholders.

Sponsor of the event Tundup Dorjey, Proprietor, Overland Escape said that the festival will mark the revival of polo sports besides bringing Chuchot on the tourist map in Ladakh by making the festival an annual event with fixed dates from 11th to 17th July.

“Tourism department has also given Rs. 5 lakh for the event”, he informed.

Later, Jora inaugurated the archery match and EC Agriculture Tsering Angdus declared open the polo matches. EC Animal Husbandry Mumtaz Hussain was also present.

Jet Airways holds maiden cabin crew recruitment drive in Leh ‘Polite, humble Ladakhis first choice of hospitality industry’

LEH: Confirming the assertion that affable Ladakhis are best suited for the elite hospitality industry assignments, Jet Airways ventured out with the District Administration Leh to carry out first ever Cabin Crew recruitment drive in the history of Ladakh here on Saturday.

The recruitment drive witnessed a tremendous response with 309 aspirants appearing for the interviews, out of which 10 sailed out successfully for the promising job in the aviation sector.

Impressed over the idea of generating job avenue through this drive, Deputy Commissioner Leh Prasanna Ramaswamy G deputed OSD to the DC Leh Sumera Shafi to do the needful for ensuring the success of this endeavour.

Expressing gratitude to the District Administration for extending wholehearted support, Jet Airways team comprising Karma S. Whiting General ManagerCabin Crew Operations Mumbai, Vikas Tyagi Manager Human Resources Delhi, and Pritam Palamwal Manager Cabin Crew-In Flight Delhi expressed their intend to carry out such drives in future also. The visiting team also lauded the role of Station Manager Jet Airways Leh Nazir Ahmed in carrying out this recruitment drive.

Sonam Dawa visits far-off hamlets of Skyu-Markha Constituency ASSURES LAUNCHING OF ROAD CONNECTIVITY PROJECT LEH: Keeping up with the resolve to mitigate problems of people living at far-off hamlets of Ladakh region, Chief Executive Councillor LAHDC Leh Dr Sonam Dawa, for the first time after assuming his office, visited Sumda and Chenmo Villages in SkyuMarkha constituency on foot and listened to the plight of villagers.

Executive Councilor Works LAHDC Leh Dorjey Motup, Block Medical Officer Leh Dr. Tashi Namgyal, Executive Engineer Construction, Executive Engineer Irrigation, Block Development Officer Nimoo and other concerned officers and officials accompanied the CEC. Dr. Dawa while interacting with the villagers said that the road connectivity is the prime issue and assured that he will take up the matter of building roads in the shape of a major project.

Later, during his visit to the headworks that were completely destroyed during last summer’s flash flood forcing the farming community to defer the sowing plans this season, CMYK

he gave directions to BDO for carrying out restoration of the head-works by next sowing season and also directed Irrigation and Revenue Departments’ officials to assess the area which remained un-cultivated for the distribution of compensation.

Dr. Dawa asked Councillor Sonam Norbu to dispense information among farming community about crop insurance benefits under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Beema Yojna.

Talking about the irrigational fields that were destroyed during flash floods of 2010 and 2015, CEC gave directions to XEn Irrigation to identify those vulnerable places in order to build Bandhs to save the fields from such damages in future.

On the demand of Medical Aid Centre, the CEC said that there are certain terms and conditions for sanctioning such a Centre. “Till the time these conditions are met village level worker will be given proper training for minor health issues and will also be supplied with medicines”, he assured and gave directions to BMO for ensuring visits of a medical team once every three months to take care of the health issues of the villagers. Earlier, the CEC was accorded a warm welcome by the Councillor Skyu-Markha Sonam Norboo.

Enroute Sumda–Chenmo in the morning CEC and the team also listened to the grievances and demands of Ezang village.

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35 DEAD IN KASHMIR VIOLENCE, Syed Geelani detained in Srinagar

Srinagar A youth was killed at Harnag in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Wednesday allegedly in firing by government forces, taking the toll in four-day-long violence in the Valley to 35.

A local news portal quoting chief medical officer Anantnag, Dr Fazil Kochak said that the youth was brought dead to the hospital.

Kochak did not take calls from HT. The youth was identified as Bashir Ahmad Dar of Anantnag.

More than 1,300 people have been injured in the clashes

between locals and the security personnel, many of them children and young men. Activists and local residents accuse security forces of using excessive force to quell protesters but police say they’re exercising maximum restraint.

Meanwhile, police arrested Hurriyat Conference chairperson Syed Ali Geelani on Wednesday as he stepped out of his Srinagar residence to lead a march for paying tributes to 21 people who died in a popular uprising in 1931.

The separatist leader – who is

under indefinite house arrest – condemned the recent clashes between tens of thousands of people and security forces following the killing of top insurgent Burhan Wani.

“Its barbarism by forces at display, it’s clear India only wants Kashmir’s land and wants to systematically kill the population here,’’ he said.

Geelani compared Wani to freedom fighters and said the militant wasn’t a terrorist but a hero to Kashmiris.

“He is a young brave soldier

who laid down his life for his people and their dignity. He is a hero like those young men who fought the British forces,’’ Geelani said.

The separatist leader asked the Jammu and Kashmir police to stop using excessive force. ``You are killing your own’’, he said.

He, however, asked people not to harm police personnel and their families.

“It’s against the tenets of Islam,’’ he said. A local newspaper had reported a policeman’s wife and daughter were beaten up by mob at Awantiopora in south

Kashmir.

Geelani had called for a march to the historic Naqshband Shahib shrine to commemorate the deaths of 21 Kashmiris who died 85 years ago in an uprising against the then ruling Dogra dynasty.

In their memory, July 13 is observed as Martyr’s Day in Kashmir and continues to be a rallying point for political parties.

Kashmir relatively peaceful, Mehbooba talks of 'healing touch' SRINAGAR: Barring some incidents of stone-pelting, Kashmir was relatively calm on Wednesday after four days of violence which claimed 34 lives and over which chief minister Mehbooba Mufti expressed "great sadness and sorrow" and promised a "healing touch".

Curfew remained in force in some parts of Kashmir, including Pampore and Kupwara towns, while restrictions on movement of people were imposed in the rest of the valley.

A police spokesman said barring "some incidents" of stone pelting at various places, the situation "remained under control" in the valley.

The stray and intermittent incidents of stone pelting were reported from Khudwani, Kulgam, Iman Sahib, Shopian and Kakpora in south Kashmir, Kralpora, Kupwara, Trehgam, Langate, Lalpora, Putkha Sopore and Main Chowk Sopore in north Kashmir, he said.

The death toll rose to 34 in the clashes between stone pelters and security forces since the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani on last Friday.

Reaching out to the people, Mehbooba sought their "support in pulling J&K out of the vortex of violence and bloodshed."

She said she needs people's support in realising the dream of a politicallyemancipated, economically self-reliant

and socially secure Jammu & Kashmir.

"The 27-year-long violence has left deep wounds in almost each home here and we have to jointly safeguard our state and our people from further bloodshed and destruction," she said after paying homage to the martyrs of 1931 at the Martyrs graveyard in Khawaja Bazar area of downtown Srinagar.

Commenting on the current unrest, Mehbooba said, "My heart is over-

whelmed with great sadness and sorrow as a result of the killings in the latest spate of violence in Kashmir."

Asserting that "I won't let the people down, despite facing a challenging task", she said, "While my government's immediate priority would be to reach out to the affected families with a healing touch, in the long run a concerted effort shall have to be launched to make peace and stability a reality in J&K, with youth being the focus of the

CMYK

government's welfare initiatives."

She said July 13, 1931 will always be remembered as a defining moment in the history of J&K when the foundation for democracy and people's rule was laid in the state.

"Each period of the state's history has had its special challenges and those confronting us today are as demanding as any in the past," the chief minister said.

Talking to mediapersons, she said the biggest tribute to these martyrs of 1931 would be to protect J&K's dignity and democracy which became a reality in the state because of their huge sacrifice.

Urging people not to "play with peace", the chief minister asked them not to fall prey to the machinations of those elements who want to disturb peace in the state. "I think the biggest tribute to them would be to protect that peace and not fall prey to the machinations of those elements who want to disturb peace here," said Mehbooba who was accompanied by some of her cabinet colleagues, legislators, party functionaries and top officers of the civil and police administration. According to the latest figures available, most deaths over the last four days have taken place in Anantnag district (16) followed by Kulgam (eight), Shopian (five), Pulwama (three), Srinagar and Kupwara (one each).

Times of LADAKH Leh, Friday 15, July, 2016

From the page one...

Religious festivity, zeal...

considered as second Buddha in Buddhist religion. He briefly informed about how Padmasambhava was born out of Lotus flower in the eighth century and also emphasized to popularize this traditional festival with mass participation to pay respect to the great Padmasambhava.

The festival duration is marked as a local holiday as it involves the entire city including tourists in large numbers.

GoC, 14 Corps Lt. General S.K Patyal, Ladakh Affairs Minister Chering Dorje Lakrook, LAHDC CEC Dr.Sonam Dawa Lonpo, Executive Councillors, Councillors, MLA Nawang Rigzin Jora, former CEC Rigzin Spalbar, District officers and large number of Indian and foreign tourists were also present.

The proceedings were skillfully managed

by District Police, CRPF personnel, Monks and YDA volunteers.

Education Deptt, Cultural...

preserved and protected to save the culture”, he added.

Mentioning about importance of traditions, culture and dresses, Cultural Academy Officer Tsewang Paljor said that traditional dress ‘Kos’ has its own special significance

N.E.W.S

and one who wear Kos maintains a moral ethics by avoiding wrongdoings. He also highlighted initiatives of Cultural Academy to revive culture which include imparting training in traditional music Daman and Surna, folk songs, seminars, etc.

Padmashree Morup thoroughly described about folk music and culture and its significance and he assured to continue his support in future to deliver lectures in schools.

Earlier, welcoming the guests, Cluster Resource Head Tsetan Angchok said that such events aimed at creating interest among children about language, culture and traditional dance.

Councillors Lower Leh P. Wangdan Shunu, Upper Leh Venerable Lobzang Nyantak and Phyang Phunchok Dorjay, and District Education Planning Officer Kunzes Dolma were also present. Later, winner schools and teachers were felicitated in various categories. Middle School Kharnakling was adjudged as best dressed school, Middle School Saboo Ayu for best folk dance performance, High School Housing Colony for best modern dance performance, M/s Saboo as best exhibition display, M/s Tashi Thongsnon in Folk song category and teacher Rinchen Angmo as best speaker in local language besides M/s Tashi Gatsal Choglamsar and Primary School Saboo Phu fetch consolation prizes.

4 Glimpses of

Cultural festival held at Cluster Resource Centre Housing Colony.

CMYK

07

08

Times of LADAKH N.E.W.S

Leh, Friday 15, July, 2016

Glimpses of Hemis Monastery Annual festival popularly known as Hemis Tseschu.

His Eminence Drukpa Thuksey Rinpochey performing “Riow Sangcho” prayer at Khardongla Top. Photo by Paldan Ursi CMYK