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FRIDAY 08 August | 2014 | 11 Shawal, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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Tara Chand calls for expeditious completion of SSA/RMSA projects
VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 217 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)
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Srinagar, Aug 7: Doctors of Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir achieved yet other feat by performing a crucial microscopic disc surgery on a 45 year old male patient in north Kashmiriat Community Health Centre (CHC) Sopore for the first time. Although a tertiary level surgery the operative team performed the surgery in a successful manner. According to a statement issued to KNS, the patient who was complaining of severe back ache was diagnosed as L4L5 PIVD and the operative procedure done was L4-L5 Microdisectomy. The team headed by Dr Mir Basharat Kant (MCH Neurosurgery) included Dr Samir Ibrahim, Consultant Anaesthetist, Dr Ian Mumtaz, Consultant Orthopaedics, Amjad Ali, Mohammad Shafi, Showkat and Shams Din(Theatre Staff).The significance of surgeries like these is that patients will be provided tertiary care set up in peripheral hospitals with ease andat their doorsteps thereby See CHC On PG 11..
04 injured in road mishaps Srinagar, Aug 7 : Four persons were injured in two separate road accidents in North Kashmir. A Maruti car bearing registration number JK045589 hit and injured three persons identified as Mohammad Fayaz Mir, Abdul Jabbar Mir, Qudrat Mir residents of Chatti Banatra, Bihar at Vadhpora in the jurisdiction of police station Handwara. All the injured have been shifted to PHC Chogal for treatment. Handwara police has registered a case in this regard. Meanwhile, a Maruti car bearing registration number JK05/8587 hit and injured a pedestrian, Ghulam Nabi Kuchay resident of Khanshab Budgam at Pancowk Baramulla. See Mishaps On PG 11..
Boy electrocuted at Handwara
Srinagar, Aug 7 : Two teenage boys got electrocuted while fishing in Maar Nallah in Handwara last evening. One of them died while another has been hospitalized. Two boys 15 years old Mehraj-u-Din Thakery son of Mohammad Yaqoob and 10 years old Imtiyaz Ahmed Thakery son of Mohammad Hanief resident of Nowgam Mawar received electric shock while fishing in nearby Maar Nallah at Nowgam, Handwara. Mehraj-u- Din Thakery died on spot while as Imtiyaz Ahmed Thakery was shifted to SKIMS Soura for treatment. Handwara Police has registered a case in this regard. (KNS)
Edit Page Illegal felling of walnut trees continues unabated The environmental degradation in whole of the world is causing many problems not only for the world populace but for all living things including flora and fauna. Our state is also facing the same problem on many counts as the forests are being reduced to barren land and the trees in the plains are being cut in such a way that day is not far when the state will become a cold desert. The majestic Chinar trees have been felled in hundreds and efforts of planting new Chinar trees have hardly yielded desired results.
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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS: Light Rain would occur at a few places over the state.
FORECAST OF SRINAGAR: Possibility of thunderstorm inthe afternoon. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 30°C & 23°C respectively.
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SUNSET ON(FRIDAY) SUNRISE ON (SATURDAY)
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Rather asks people to shun differences, work unitedly for the cause of people
Ramzan, Wani reviews progress of R&B works in Handwara >>>>> PG 10
First ever microscopic disc surgery done at CHC level
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
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Chief Engineer PHE resigns Accuses CAPD Minister of using foul language CAPD Minister rebuts allegations Employees protest minister’s misbehaviour
SDA remains headless, Govt. promises Inaugurates Receiving Stations at Dandipora, Marhama, Khellan action
Self-reliance in power generation on anvil: Omar
Srinagar, Aug 7 : As the Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) runs headless for the last a month, authorities seem least interested in appointing its vice chairman. Reports have informed KNS that the SDA runs at present without any one heading the authorities-causing much chaos within the employees maintaining that there is no one to listen to their woes. “It is the most unfortunate aspect that when we have any problem within the office that could only be resolved by the vice chairman but since he was transferred by the government, here is no one that was placed on his chair due to which it is total entropy here,” said one of the SDA employees. It was also informed that the employees went on strike for the last 20 days due to certain issues faced by them in the past and that the workers continued to protest amid strike with See SDA On PG 11..
PDP condemns assault on MA Lanker Srinagar, August 7: Slamming the National Conference leader & minister for CAPD, Choudhry Ramzan, for abusing an upright and honest state government officer, M A Lankar, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), president, Mehbooba Mufti has said this is a new low in the working of Omar Abdullah-led government in the state. In a statement, she said by resorting to such type of hooliganism and highhandedness time and again, the National See PDP On PG 11.. Srinagar, August 07: Hours after Chief Engineer Public Health Engineer (PHE) accused Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CAPD) Chowdhary Muhammad Ramzan of abusing him and subsequently resigned, the
CAPD Minister revealed an embezzlement of 5.84 crore in a PHE Scheme. The Chief Engineer PHE Muzaffar Ahmad Lankar told GNS that the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Chowdhary Mohammad
Ramzan used aggressive language against my engineers and abused me during the review meeting today in presence of PHE Minister Sham Lal Sharma. “The language which Chowdary Ramzan used was See Resigns On PG 11..
Mehbooba expresses concern over lack of irrigation water to farmers
‘PDP to focus on regeneration of orchards, increase in apple production’
Srinagar, Aug 7 : Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti, has expressed concern over the lack of irrigation waters to the fruit orchards, agriculture fields and highland karewas which has resulted into huge losses to the people involved with the farming activity in the state. According to a statement issued to KNS, while addressing various roadside meetings in Wachi assembly constituency of Shopian district, she said there are no sufficient irrigation waters available to the orchards, agriculture fields, vegetable farms and the ruling NC-led government has miserably failed in its duty to devise specific plans to rescue the sectors from imperiling crisis. Mehbooba said the farming community have suffered immense losses, because of the inclement weather conditions, lack of irrigation waters and the government indifference. She said the hailstorm
GoI accepts 72 out of 76 Sachar recommendations: Heptullah Srinagar, Aug 7 : In response to a Starred Question in the Rajya Sabha, the other day, the Minister of Minority Affairs, Najma Heptullah informed Prof. Saifuddin Soz that out of 76 recommendations of the Sacher Report, Government of India had accepted 72 recommendations. She also said that these recommendations were at different stages of implementation. According to a statement issued to KNS, the Minister further said that Govt. had taken 43 decisions in respect of the 72 recommendations. Heptullah has further clarified that the responsibility of implementation of the aforesaid decisions had been given to the concerned Ministries/Departments Prof. Soz has, however, expressed his apprehensions that while the previous Govt. had set up a cell within PMO to monitor the implementations of the Sacher Report and implementation of 15-point programme meant for amelioration of the minorities, the present Govt. had, reportedly, dispensed with that See GoI On PG 11..
in many areas have left standing crops devastated but the government agencies have not been able to intervene either in disease control or loss assessment. Mehbooba said the horticulture industry in the state is faced with immense challenges and the lack of concern from the ruling Na-
tional Conference government towards this economically vital sector has created a huge crisis like situation The PDP Chief expressed concern over the decrease in fruit crops particularly apple over the last five years which has badly affected the economic condition See Mehbooba On PG 11..
Srinagar, Aug 7 : A two day workshop is being held at Amar Singh College, Srinagar on “Vocationalization in Higher Education & Baseline Survey”. The workshop is being organized by Mission Directorate RUSA to device modalities for introduction of vocational education and conducting baseline survey in Higher Education. According to a statement issued to KNS, the workshop was inaugurated by Muhammad Akbar Lone, Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education, J&K State. Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad (IAS), Secretary to Government, Higher Education Department was guest of Honour. Mir Jahangir, Director, RUSA delivered welcome address. Keynote address to the workshop was delivered by Prof. Zahoor Ahmad Chatt, Nodal Principal, Kashmir Division. The workshop was attended by Academicians
Srinagar, Aug 7: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today inaugurated three Power Receiving Stations at Dandipora, Marhama in Anantnag and Khallen in Pulwama Districts. These are a part of the gigantic programme launched in the State to upgrade power distribution and supply system. According to a statement issued to KNS, Omar Abdullah while interacting with the people at these places told them about the blue print of his comprehensive policy of revolutionizing State’s power generation and distribution scenario. He said all
Mysterious fire in School Education Deptt raises eyebrows Srinagar, August 07: A cabin-desk which contained critical documents about private schools was gutted in mysterious fire that broke out in the Directorate of Education Kashmir here, sources said on Thursday. The mysterious fire who erupted in the wee hours has raised eyebrows as officials believe a mafia working for the private schools may have set the cabin on fire to hide bungling. Reliable sources said at around 6 am, a fire erupted in the private section. “The fire erupted from a table where important record of Kashmir private schools including inspection report got gutted,” they said. Sources in Education Department believe that the fire was not accidental but there seems some conspiracy. “How come it is that only table would be gutted?” they asked.
Mission Directorate (RUSA) finally takes off / Experts from Universities / Colleges and other educational institutions from Jammu and Kashmir. Viviek Nagpal from Ministry of Human Resources Development, GOI also participated in the workshop. The workshop assumes greater significance in view of the fact that a new Directorate (Mission Directorate RUSA) has been established in higher education sector for vocational education, upgradation of infrastructure in colleges / universities and creation of new cluster universities. With the initiative of organizing two days workshop, the Directorate formally took off. The expert team is scheduled to frame curriculum and required number of work hours of studies required to complete the syllabi Vote of thanks was presented by Mr. Fayaz Ahamd Bala, Consultant RUSA. (KNS)
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Soon after the fire, the education officials, police and fire service personal rushed to the spot and doused the fire from spreading, sources said. The Director Education Kashmir, Tariq Ali Mir, told GNS that the timely action by them ‘saved the computers and other record in the section’. On being asked that important record of private schools has gutted, he said: “Though it is not the case, but we also keep photo copies of the record and other papers.” The Director further said he can’t say whether someone is behind the incident or it is just an accident. “Presently I can’t say anything. But, I have constituted a committee and asked the committee to submit its report within a week. He also said that police, which is a best investigative agency, See School On PG 11..
efforts have been made to make Jammu and Kashmir self-sufficient in power production and strengthen the HT/LT system. “We have focused power sector to achieve twin objectives of ensuring 24x7 supply to consumers in the State and export the surplus generation to get remunerative income for economic welfare”, he added and said that financial independence of the State largely depends on power sector development.The Chief Minister said that as against 750 MW power See Omar On PG 11..
Soldier killed, lieutenant among 3 injured in Bandipora mishap
Srinagar, Aug 7: An Army soldier was killed and three others including a lieutenant, sustained injures when a vehicle they were travelling in fell into a deep gorge in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district on Thursday. A senior army official told GNS that an army gypsy bearing registration number 05B089584 while on way to Gurez from Bandipora skidded off the road and fell into a
deep gorge near Dragbal in the district. The official said that four army men of 22 Raj Rifles under 109 and 28 Infantry Brigade sustained injuries in the mishap, the official said, adding that all the injured were immediately shifted to district hospital Bandipora where one of the soldiers identified as Rifleman Ram Niwas (belt no. 16018018 W) See SoldierOn PG 11..
NC issues show-cause notice to Shaheen ‘Respond within a week or face disciplinary action’
Srinagar, Aug 7 : National Conference Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani has issued a showcause notice on behalf of
the party to Abdul Rashid Shaheen for issuing baseless and unacceptable statements against the party leadership in the media. According to a party spokesman, the NC Provincial President said the rank-and-file of See NC On PG 11..
J&K Bank announces “KOSHISH” initiative for underprivileged children We will bring smiles on faces of crying underprivileged children: Chairman Srinagar, Aug 7: In yet another major corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, J&K Bank announced launch of a major initiative “KOSHISH” for meeting the health, educational and nutritional needs of underprivileged children of the state. In the first phase, 40 villages in three districts – Srinagar, Budgam & Ganderbal would be covered under the programme covering 5100 household and 9224 children. According to a statement issued to KNS, announcement to this effect was made by the J&K Bank Chairman, Mushtaq Ahmad, at a glittering function here today where the State Finance Minister Abdul Rahim Rather, launched a joint Corporate Social Responsibility programme of J&K Bank & PNB Metlife in the state. Christopher Townsend, President Asia, MetLife Inc,. Tarun Chugh, MD & CEO, PNB MetLife, Parvez, Ahmad,
Executive President, J&K Bank, Abdul Rauf Bhat, Sr. President, J&K Bank and Ms. Puja Marwaha, CEO, Child Rights & You (CRY). Notably, CRY would be implementing agency of the projects.
The CSR programme will focus on education and development of underprivileged children in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The two identified projects are with CRY - Child Rights
and You, through project partners Jammu & Kashmir Association of Social Worker (JKASW) and KOSHISH. JKASW works across 1,823 households in the districts of Baramullah, Bandipora and Srinagar impacting 4,800 children. KOSHISH will work with 9200 children in 5100 households across 25 villages in the district of Budgam. In addition, 15 more villages are being evaluated for this programme. The State Finance Minister, Abdul Rahim Rather, speaking on the occasion, was all praise for J&K Bank for its crucial to the financial security and development of individuals, families and societies at large in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. “During the last two decades, I think there must be very few success stories that could rival the meteoric rise of J&K Bank in the country. Throughout the state, 8 out of 10 success stories See JK On PG 11..
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Srinagar, Friday 08 August 2014
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Resigns not tolerable by me and subsequently I left the meeting hall”, Lankar said. When asked about the resignation tendered by him, he said, naturally when the minster attacked me and used abusive language I accordingly submitted my resignation to the commissioner secretary. In a communication to Commissioner-Secretary of the department, Lankar said that he was abused by the Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan in a meeting today in presence of PHE Minister Sham Lal Sharma. “In view of grave provocative language used by CAPD Minister during the meeting I submit my resignation from the post of Chief Engineer and you are requested to make alternative arrangement for running the department,” he said in the letter. However, the CAPD Minister Chowdhary Ramzan stongly denied allegations of PHE Chief Engineer and said he only sought answer about the 5.84 crore rupees embezzlement in a PHE Water Scheme at Ramhal Block of Handwara in Kupwara district. Talking to GNS, the Minister, who is also senior National Conference leader and MLA Handwara, said: “Neither had I abused him nor I slapped him. Basically, the matter is that we had a review meeting of PHE in which Minister for PHE, lawmakers, engineers and even sarpanchs were also present.” “When I asked him about the embezzlement and lack of water supply, tapes and pipes, he stood up and said I am man of integrity and fumed up. He said don’t ask me anything. I told him people elect us and we are accountable to them and you are accountable to us. Even though his Minister scolded, he continued heated arguments. Then I left the hall,” Ramzan said. “I have always respected officers during my 30 year career and officers have also respected me. I can’t even think of misbehaving with any officer,” he added. The Minister said some three years ago he had passed a Central water supply worth 5 crore and 84 lakh rupees scheme for Ramhal. “However, the project never got completed due to embezzlement of funds by concerned engineers and contractors. When I asked Chief Engineer about the embezzlement, he started to defend the officials and in the meantime, there were some heated arguments,” he said. Ramzan said last year during the review meeting on 28 July, he had told Minister for PHE that there is embezzlement of funds. “I told him to investigate the matter. So when the office of Honourable Minister issues minutes, they noted down that there is embezzlement of 50 lakh and asked for report within fortnight. But there was no probe,” he told GNS. The senior NC leader said in today’s review meeting, the PHE officials said that they have spent 5.50 crore rupees.”But I questioned them by saying there is no water or water pipes in the Ramhal block. Some pipes are on the on the ground but no pipes are under ground. I told them that not a single soul has benefited from the scheme despite such huge money being spent on the scheme,” Ramzan said, adding the Minister for PHE asked Executive Engineer, who has recently taken up the charge, about my question. The CAPD Minister said that Executive Engineer replied to PHE Minister by saying: “Yes Sir, he is right. We have spent 5.50 crore and now I don’t have any funds to provide water supply to the people of Ramhal. We have spent all money on papers.” The Minister said that in the past when embezzlement surfaced, an Executive Engineer was transferred to Anantnag. “Two months ago, on 28 June, 2014I had written a DO letter to the Minister about the embezzlement and had mentioned that there is a nexus between engineers and contractors. I sought an enquiry into the embezzlement and demanded punishment under law.” On being asked about the embezzlement in the department, the Chief Engineer said the case is under investigation by Crime Branch. Despite repeated attempts, the PHE Minister could not be contacted. Later when the news spread in the PHE office, the employees including the daily wagers held protest demonstrations and took out a protest march towards TRC. The protesting employees were raising slogans against the CAPD minister and demanded his resignation. The PHE employees union told later that the employees will observe strike on August 8 and will held protests against the CAPD minister.
Omar projects launched in the State from 1947 to 2008 including Baglihar HEP initiated by Dr. Farooq Abdullah, his government started power projects of over 1500 MWs capacity in just five years and laid necessary edifice for generating 9000 MWs in next six to seven years. Over 20 major Grid and Receiving Stations have been completed besides construction of hundreds of Sub-Stations and installation of 18000 kilometre long transmission lines. He said two Data Centres have been commissioned at Srinagar and Jammu to benefit consumers. He said 30 towns have been brought under R-APDRP. Omar Abdullah said that per capita consumption of electricity has gone up from 742 units in 2007-08 to 946 units in 2013-14 which showed an increase of 27 percent. He said energy deficit has also declined from 37.71 percent in 2007-08 to 29 percent. He said energy supply has increased from 8744 million units in 200708 to 12714 million units in 2013-14 which accounts for 45 percent increase in five years. Dandipora Receiving Station has been constructed at a cost of over Rs. 194 lakhs while Marhama Receiving Station involved Rs. 207 lakhs and that of Khellan Receiving Station Rs. 205 lakhs. In all the three Stations will benefit the population of about 10500 souls in over 50 villages. The villages which will be benefited by these Stations are Dandipora, Gohan,Vailoo, Pandobal, Lohar, Senze, Cherward,Ahlan, Gadole, Bedihar, Mati, Desso, Duksum, Khartie, LArnoo, Nobugh, Draway, Shatru, Hllan, Laisoo Brenad, Goddraman, Matihadoo, Gavran, Tagwani Halmulla, Sether, Pujteng, Dagripora, Batpora Punjpora, Asthanpora, Check, Daddoo, Cheerehteng, Herpora, Marhama, Naibasti, Shiekhpora, Kubpora, Kudangan, Balyaar,Sangam, Naina, Batapora, Khellan, Kawni, Liddermud, Kolapora, Bandna, Badripora, Pati, Braoo Bandena, Mellora, Wanduna and other satellite villages. It was stated on the occasion that Maintenance and Rural Electrification Kashmir Wing of Power Development Department caters to around 7.8 lakh consumers with registered load of 1045 MWs of which 573 MWs account for domestic use. During 2013-14 as many as 636 million units of electric energy was supplied to consumers in Kashmir Valley which stands at 2284.6 million units during this year by the end of July
Zabarwan Times as against 2021 million units supplied in 2013 in the same period thus recording an increase of over 13.01 percent in energy supply. (KNS)
PDP Conference politicians are showcasing their real face. She said the fact is that the NC leadership has always employed such type of inhuman acts and it is not something new. “They (NC politicians) are frustrated and to hide their failures they now want to force the officers to resort to illegal methods to accommodate the ruling party agents,” she said. Mehbooba said that the assault on the officer becomes even more serious as the minister in charge of his department, too, was reportedly present in the meeting and he could not protect his own head of the department. “Such an assault on any government official or for that matter with any citizen is unacceptable but in the case of the modest and upright officer of prone integrity like Mr M A Lanker, it becomes even more shocking,” she said Mehbooba said the ministers in the present government have mostly come into adverse notice for their acts of omission and commission, scams and scandals and misconduct with the officials and ordinary people and today’s incident has rightly sent shockwaves among the administration. Mehbooba said the PDP stands by Mr Lanker and would do everything to uphold his dignity and self-respect. (GNS)
SDA no one listening to their woes. The reports about the state departments running headless here have become the order of the day, affecting the administrative set up of various departments, making the people to suffer at large. In the recent past, the government had to reappoint Irfan Yaseen Shah as the vice chairman LAWDA as there was no one in the authority who could rein the office. Reports maintained that due to the absence of the chairman LAWDA during the past, the functioning of the authority got affected with its reflection seen on the Dal waters. The SDA employees have stated that due to the headless authority, the office is getting affected after every day and that the state authorities must take the immediate steps. Urban Development minister Nawang Ringzin Jora when contacted told KNS that he will take up the matter with the chief minister so that immediate action on ground could be taken. (KNS)
Mehbooba of the people involved with the sector. “Apple production has considerably decreased in Kashmir over the last five years, which is the matter of huge concern for all of us,” she said. The PDP president, however, said the sector will be among the priority areas for her party in future and serious efforts will be put in to get it back on rails. She said regeneration of old orchards, increase in apple productivity and proper irrigation facilities to orchards is a must and the PDP will seriously work towards this. Mehbooba said the apple crop has been hit by diseases across Kashmir and districts of Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam and parts of Budgam are the worst hit. “Many diseases have attacked apple plants and almost all orchards are threatened causing nearly total devastation of the crop,” she said adding the diseases are leaving a long term impact as well, which could permanently hurt the industry that is providing sustenance to the huge population across the Valley. She said during the current year also due to hostile climatic conditions and onslaught of diseases the sector is facing with huge losses.
School will also investigate. They have also registered a case and whosoever is found guilty, would be punished.” A section of officials however maintain that the cabin had been set on fire. Meanwhile, police have registered a case under FIR number 66/2014 under section 435 RPC in this regard and further investigations taken up. (GNS)
Soldier succumbed to injuries.The other three injured have been identified as Lieutenant Vijay Shanker Yadav (belt no. SS46916N), Naik Sanwar Mal Godara (belt no. 2896342W) and Anand Kumar (16013932N) and were referred to army’s 92 Base Hospital here in Srinagar for specialized treatment. The condition of all the three soldiers is said to be serious, the official said. Meanwhile, police has registered a case and stated further investigations in this regard. (GNS)
NC the party are united under the able and visionary leadership of Party President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Working President Omar Abdullah and Shaheen’s uttering are figments of his imagination and could be perhaps motivated solely by personal ambitions and interests. The show-cause notice gives Shaheen a week to respond and clarify his stand, failing which strict disciplinary action will be initiated against him by the party. (KNS)
GOI procedure and that was something very disturbing. Prof. Soz has requested the Minister to make the position clear in this behalf. (KNS)
JK in businesses would have this bank at their back,” he said and further stated that the bank has been at the forefront of socio-economic upliftment of the people while pushing the limits of entrepreneurship and enterprise for a deeper and sustainable economic development. The bank plays a key role in providing indirect employment to considerable number of entrepreneurs. Going beyond its core business and profit-making, J&K Bank renders great service to the people of J&K through its growing CSR activities, he said. The bank has been forthcoming in modernization of education by providing computer systems generously to various schools and trusts. Likewise the bank has
been financially taking care of education of scores of special children at various institutes across the state. He said, “This bank has made all its share holders proud not only in the state but across the country. I wish these welfare projects under CSR reach all the poor and needy in the state as it means our collective welfare and success in the longer run.” Mushtaq Ahmad, Chairman & CEO, Jammu & Kashmir Bank said, “We are delighted to announce the launch of the CSR programme through this platform along with PNB MetLife, our bancassurance partner for last 13 years. United in spirit, today we jointly announce our programmes to work towards education and development of underprivileged children in J&K.” He added, “From matters of health care, heritage preservation to poverty alleviation, promotion of education to eco-conservation; our CSR policy has been to instill a sense of relief and protection among the most vulnerable sections of society. Now that the scope of such policy has widened immensely we have also broadened our CSR agenda for deeper impact in the societies we operate in. This is just one of the initiatives that we are launching in the state under the agenda”, he added. Mushtaq expressed his optimism that “KOSHISH” would bring smiles on the faces on crying underprivileged children. Speaking on the initiatives, Mr. Christopher Townsend, President Asia, MetLife Inc said, “MetLife has always had a strong global focus on Corporate Social Responsibility. We have many projects across the globe focused on supporting and empowering local communities via the MetLife Foundation in areas like Financial Inclusion. Continuing our proud history of community development and support, I am excited to be here today to launch PNB MetLife’s the CSR programme in the state of Jammu & Kashmir with our long-standing partner JKB supporting education and development of underprivileged children.” Talking about the programme, Mr. Tarun Chugh, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, PNB MetLife, said “This is indeed an exciting day for us as we leverage the local expertise of JKB to launch our CSR programme in the state. This is the first step and we are evaluating projects across the country on education and development of underprivileged children. We arrived at the agenda of child education after researching and evaluating the need of the local communities we were setting up projects in. We hope to make a sustainable difference to the society with our projects with CRY in J&K.” He added, “We have had a successful relationship with JKB over the last 13 years and we have secured lives of over 200,000 customers and settled close to 1100 claims worth Rs 24 cr.” Talking about CRY’s experience in the state, Puja Marwaha, CEO, CRY – Child Rights and You said, “Working in J&K has its set of unique challenges. However, working with our local partner since 2005 we have gathered a deep understanding of the on-ground realties that are barriers to children’s rights, especially education. Lack of access to schools and discrimination of girl children are few of the issues faced by children here. We work on mobilizing the communities, its leaders and in tandem with government systems to bring about positive and lasting change in the lives of these children.” (KNS)
saving their precious time and lessening down the burden on already burdened tertiary hospitals. Director Health Services, Kashmir Dr Saleem-ur-Rehman has complimented the operative team and the administrator of CHC Sopore for attaining such a remarkable feat. (KNS)
Mishaps The injured has been shifted to hospital for treatment. Baramulla Police has registered a case in this regard. (KNS)
Unidentified body recovered in Leh Srinagar, Aug 7 (KNS): An unidentified male body was recovered by police in Hemischu area of Leh District last evening. Leh police recovered an un-indentified male body at NHW near Hemischu, Leh in suspicious condition. The body of deceased is lying in mortuary room of Sub District Hospital, Khaltsi for identification. Leh Police has registered a case FIR 89/14 under section 279, 304A RPC registered to ascertain the identity and cause of the death of the deceased. (KNS)
Boy drowns in Sopore Srinagar, Aug 7 (KNS): A 10 year old boy Imran Ahmad Bhat son of Abdul Gani resident of Dubgah Sopore drowned in river Jehlum at Dubgah Sopore while bathing in the river. The body of the boy was later retrieved and handed over to his relatives for last rites. (KNS)
Former trooper succumbs to injuries Srinagar, Aug 7: (GNS) A former Border Security Force soldier who was injured on July 31 after being shot at by unknown gunmen at Kaksari area here in Srinagar city succumbed to injuries on Saturday. A police official told GNS that former BSF trooper Nazir Ahmad Shah of Maidan Poran Lolab Kupwara today succumbed to injuries at SMHS Hospital here in Srinagar.
CRPF man dies of heart attack Srinagar, Aug 7: (GNS) A Central Reserve Police
Force (CRPF) trooper Thursday died of heart attack in Srinagar city. Constable Rakesh Kumar, 37, of 32 Bn of CRPF suffered a cardiac arrest during duty near civil secretariat here, a police official said. He was taken to a hospital, where he was declared brought dead, he said.
Lost
LOST I have lost my 8th Pass certificate somewhere. Now I have applied for its duplicate. Anybody having objection in this regard may file the same in the office of the Principal, Govt. Hr. Secondary School, Nagam within 7 days after that no objection will be entertained. Bilal Ahmad Sheikh S/o Mohammad Ismail Sheikh R/o Bayeena Chadoora
CHC
It is for general information that I have lost my international Passport under No:H9447527. Now I have apply for its duplicate. If any body have any objection may contact the concern office of the Regional Passport Office, Boulevard Dal Gate Srinagar. After completion of time no objection will be entertained. Shafat Ahmad Bhat Ghulam Mohammad Bhat R/o: P. Depot Parimpora Srinagar.
AJ
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Vodafone donates Rs 5. 42 lakh to facilitate education for underprivileged Kashmiri children Srinagar, Aug 7: Vodafone India, one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers, Thursday donated more than Rs 5 lakh to Sakhawat Centre to help facilitate education of underprivileged children in J&K. Embracing the true spirit of the holy month of Ramdaan through a ‘giving’ gesture, Vodafone, for the second consecutive year, raised funds for the education of needy children. As part of its tie-up with the Sakhawat Centre run by Iqbal Memorial Trust, an NGO in Srinagar, Vodafone donated 1paisa out of every call or recharge and Rs 5 out of every new activation in the Kashmir province during the entire month of Ramdaan, starting July 1, 2014. Through this initiative, this year, Vodafone collected a total of Rs 5.42 lakh which was given to the Sakhawat Centre. Last year, Vodafone had given Rs 4.58 lakh to the Sakhawat Centre under this initiative for promoting education of needy children. The cheque was handed over to Dr. Yusuf-ul-Omer, Chairman Sakhawat Centre (under Iqbal Memorial Trust) and Mir Mohammad Ashraf, Secretary Sakhawat Centre (under Iqbal Memorial Trust) today. While sharing his thoughts on this noble initiative, Asit Shekhar, Business Head, Punjab, HP and J&K, Vodafone India, said, “Education for all is a pre-requisite for growth and development of the so-
ciety. However, there are children who wish to study but find it difficult to pursue it because of financial difficulties. As a value-based organization, it has been Vodafone’s endeavor to contribute to the empowerment of the society it operates in. Through this ‘giving’ initiative we are working towards removing the hindrances faced by those needy children who want to study, thereby contributing to the inclusive growth of the society. Also, the tie-up with the Sakhawat Centre has helped Vodafone involve all the people of Kashmir to contribute for this humble cause.” Dr. Yusuf-ul-Omer, Chairman, Sakhawat Centre (under Iqbal Memorial Trust) while explaining the
functioning of the NGO said, “We are happy and proud to continue this association with Vodafone for a second year running as it helps bring about a positive change in the life of needy children. The Iqbal Memorial Trust has been working to rehabilitate the lives of thousands of destitutes and orphans in J&K. With an objective of making its social welfare activities more broad-based, the Trust had set up the Sakhawat Centre in J&K in June 2005. The humble endeavor by Vodafone works in line with our objectives of giving the needy children a fair chance to rise above their difficulties and chasing their dreams unhindered by the lack of resources.”
Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Bashir Malik Editor: Shahana Malik Legal Advisor: Syed Riyaz Hussain RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt. Quarters , M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 09999964750, 9796 787844
NEWS
Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
Tara Chand calls for expeditious completion of SSA/RMSA projects
Directs for early finalization of new Edu policy
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 7: In order to take appraisal of various schemes being implemented by the school education department, Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand convened a high-level meeting of officers here today. Secretary School Education, Nirmal Sharma, State Project Director, RMSA/SSA, S.A. Laharwal, Director School Education, Kashmir, Mir Tariq Ali, Director School Education, Jammu, H.R. Pakhroo, Director Finance, well within the stipulated time ground.Taking serious note on Education, Shadi Lal Pandita, frame so that the benefits of these the delay of framing the draft edJoint Secretary, BOSE, Renu Go- programmes percolate down to ucation policy, the Deputy Chief swami and other officers of SSA/ the needy. He emphasized the Minister directed the concerned RMSA and school education at- need for maintaining quality of officers to expedite the process and tended the meeting.While taking works strictly as laid down speci- finalize the proposed document Lone News Kangan Khan News Agency Ganderbal schematic review of flagship pro-Agency fications so that the durable as- at the earliest. He reiterated the Gulzar News Agency Soura ZahidGovernment’s Book Depot Chadoora grammes of Central Government sets are created. He also called for commitment for namely RMSA and SSA, the Dep-Agency Tariq News Hawal Bashirputting News Agency ensuring coordinated efforts and in place Nowhatta an effective eduuty Chief Minister directed the effective monitoring cation policy in order improve Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgarimechanism Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal to Chowk concerned officers to speed up to achieve the desired results on the overall educational scenario Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk the pace and achieve the targets
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Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Magam Dar News Agency Beerwah Reshi News Agency Safapora Basharat News Agency Bandipora SRINAGAR, AUGUST the Chief Secretary with Altaf Agency Pulwama 07 – Chief Secretary, Mo-News the concerned adminisJeelani News Agency Baramulla Shah News Agency Kupwara Younis News Agency Langate Reshi News Agency Islamabad Turray News Agency Tral Rahi News Agency Kulgam Rah News Agency Byepass
hammad Iqbal Khandey, today reviewed the preparations underway to roll out the new administrative units and dedicate these to the people of the State at the earliest. Weekly review meetings are being held by
trative secretaries to put in place all the necessary infrastructure alongwith deployment and adjustment of functionaries to make these units fully operational. Mr Khandey stressed on necessary coordina-
Ghulam Ahmad Bhat calls on Governor SRINAGAR, AUGUST 7: Social Activists, Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Bhat, a Kabir Purasakar Awardee, and Dr. Mir Audil Farooq called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at the Raj Bhavan today.Mr. Bhat and Dr. Mir apprised the Governor about the varied problems faced by large segments of population who live in Srinagar and Budgam districts, particularly the poor maintenance of important road networks, erratic power supply, and various social issues.
KUAA Schools’Teachers and Staff calls on Governor
Srinagar, August 7: A deputation of the teachers and staff of two Kashmir University Primary Schools at Anchar, Soura and Shanpora, Habak led by Mr. Maroof Hussain called on Governor, Mr. N. N. Vohra, Chancellor of Kashmir University, here at the Raj Bhavan today. Both these schools were established by the Kashmir University Alumni Association over a decade ago.The deputation apprised the Governor about the uncertainty of their tenures and the various hardships being faced by them. The Governor assured the delegation that their grievances shall be urgently taken up with the Vice Chancellor.
Secretary Planning and Development, B. R. Sharma, Principal Secretary Finance, B. B. Vyas, Administrative Secretaries from Revenue, R&B, Rural Development, General Administration Department, Information Technology besides Divisional Commissioners Kashmir and Jammu and other senior officers.
in the State. He called for convening an early meeting of panel constituted for the purpose to discuss the present status of the proposed draft.Regarding the issue of disbursement of salaries to the SSA/ RMSA teachers, the Deputy Chief Minister directed the Secretary School Education to take up the issue with the Finance Department for early release of funds so
that the outstanding salaries of all such teachers are disbursed early.State Project Director, RMSA/SSA while giving details about the projects that are underway under both the flagship programmes said that works are in full swing and all out efforts are being made to accomplish the targets within the stipulated time frame.
SICOP touching Rs. 1000 cr turnover during this fiscal: Kichloo
This was stated at the 84th meeting of Board of Directors of SICOP held under the Chairmanship of Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, who is also chairman of the Board, Mr. Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo , here today. The Board reviewed physical and financial achievements of the Corporation for the last financial year and first quarter of the current financial year, besides, held threadbare discussion and made appropriate decisions to make the Corporation more vibrant, progressive and profitable.
Financial Commissioner, Industries and Commerce Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai , Principal Secretary Planning and Development, Mr. B. R. Shrama, were present in the meeting. The Board also reviewed follow up action of previous board meeting. It also approved the enhancement of retirement age of its employees from 58 to 60 as per already issued Government decision. The Board reviewed the status of various ongoing projects including Sanat Ghar, which is being constructed at a cost of Rs. 27.21 crore at Bemina , Srinagar. The Sanat Ghar will accommodate offices of all Heads of Departments and Corporations under the Administrative Control of Industries and Commerce Department under one roof. The Board gave a time line of one month for its completion and directed M D SICOP to ensure work in double shift. The meeting also reviewed the prog-
that 9 habitations in the area have been connected with a massive road network so far. A left over population of 18000 persons residing in 55 habitations will also be
Don’t discount your ability to be extremely resourceful if you need to be, Aries. If you don’t have everything you need or all of the required information, take time to think. Who can you ask? What places can you access? Who might know where you can find what you need? Rather than panic because the pieces aren’t all there, instead make a list of contacts and go for it. Trust in yourself.
directed them to submit report within a week. He assured that an Executive Engineer will be posted in R&B Division Handwara within two days positively so that con-
Gemini May 21-June 21
Dare to be different, Gemini. It can be so easy to fall into a drill. Sleeping at the same time, eating at the same time, wearing the same style, and going about work the same way day after day. Before you know it, you feel like you’re in a rut. The only way to get away from this is to make a decision to break free by doing something unique. Try a new haircut. Wear colors that are unusual for you. If the need is there, consider a new career. Pursue expansion.
Cancer June 22-July 22
If your lifestyle is considerably different than that of others, resist feeling self-conscience about it today, Cancer. Try to remember that you chose the life you have for specific reasons. Even if you’ve come to a point where you’re considering a change, there’s no need to feel badly, ashamed, or embarrassed about where you are now. Everyone has to make his or her own way. If this conforms to the norm, that’s fine. If it doesn’t, that’s fine, too.
Leo
July 23-August 22 An enhanced feeling of determination could motivate you today, Leo. Finish the things that aren’t complete and make some plans for this evening. Don’t hesitate to take on something that feels complicated or big. Chances are you’ll be able to handle most anything and it will feel great when it’s finished. Enjoy your day by making the most of opportunity.
Virgo
August 23-September 22
Feeling the effects of today’s energies, Virgo? Take heart if this is the case, because the end of the tunnel isn’t as far away as it seems. Do your best to take things one step at a time and see about making some plans for a little fun this evening. Get together with friends or take in a movie. Help yourself feel better by staying busy and focused and follow up with some recreation. Before you know it, the aspect will pass and you’ll be back to normal.
Libra
September 23-October 23 Consider making some plans for a vacation or short getaway, Libra. Looking forward to something fun can make even the toughest of days far easier to handle. You’ll be amazed how much you can manage when there’s an end in plain sight. Your entire attitude can lighten. So take the bull by the horns and create an incentive for yourself. Do something special to reward the hard work you do day after day.
Scorpio
October 24-November 21
connected with major towns and highways in a phased manner, the meeting was informed. Minister for R&B has constituted a 4-member team comprising Superintending Engineers of R&B and PMGSY, Executive Engineer and AEE of the concerned district and directed them to have on spot visit to check and verify that whether the work has been executed as per specifications. He
Rather asks people to shun differences, work unitedly for the cause of people Announces Rs 78 lakh WSS for Karapora KARAPORA (BUDGAM), AUGUST 8- Saying that socio -economic emancipation of the people of J&K is mission of the present government, the Minister for Finance & Ladakh Affairs, Mr Abdul Rahim Rather today reiterated commitment of the government to ameliorate the lot of poor and down trodden sections of the society. He said it was for the first time that a comprehensive and futuristic planning has been devised to optimally exploit various natural resources abundantly available in the state to ensure its holistic development and progress. Addressing public gatherings at
Aries
March 21-April 19
Try not to let today’s blues get you down, Taurus. While it’s true that some days can seem to drag on, the busier you are the faster time will pass. Get down to finishing any work still before you and then make plans for tonight. If there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, not only will things seem to speed up but you’ll feel better knowing it’s coming.
Ramzan, Wani reviews progress of R&B works in Handwara
Chak Karapora and Karapora villages in tehsil Chadoora, Mr Rather said that inclusive and holistic development of the state is possible only when it’s natural resources especially vast hydle resources, huge tourism potential, abundant mineral reserves and unique horticulture are exploited optimally adding that it was only keeping this fact in view that the Chief Minister Mr Omar Abdullah has accorded first priority to utilize these sectors for making J&K a self reliant state. He exuded confidence that after next few years, when the under execution projects in various sectors of life are completed, the state will become one of the self sustained and progressive states of the country. “other sectors of life like road connectivity, Public Health Engineering, Education, Rural development etc. have also undergone a turnaround during last five and a half years of the present government,” Rather maintained.
HOROSCOPE
April 20-May 20
84th meeting of Board of Directors of SICOP Held
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 07: Ministers for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, Transport Choudhary Muhammad Ramzan and Minister for Roads and Buildings, Mechanical Engineering Mr. Abdul Majid Wani, took a detailed review of various road projects taken up under PMGSY, NABARD, R&B and JKPCC in Handwara Assembly Constituency, at a high level meeting of officers here today. The meeting was informed that 17 schemes from phase 4th to 9th at an estimated cost of Rs 45.28 crore have been taken up in Handwara constituency during the year 201314, out of which 10 schemes have been completed, while as work on remaining schemes is in progress. It was also given out in the meeting that an amount of Rs 35.47 crore has been incurred on these projects thus completing 59.54 Km out of target of 73.60 Km to be achieved in Phase Ist and 2nd. The meeting was informed
08. 08 .2014
Taurus
Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Rashid News Agency Dalgate Hilal News Agency Budgam Bhat News Agency Chadoora Zargar News Agency Kunzar Bashir News Agency Sumbal Saleem News Agency Pattan Reyaz News Agency Pampore tion among concerned SRINAGAR,AUGUST 07: Heading Javaid News departments to Agency stream-Qazigund towards highest ever business turnover G.M Agency Sopore line theNews whole process, of Rs.1000 crore during current financial Sultanasking News Agency besides the con-Handwara year, the Jammu and Kashmir Small cerned to Islamabad Sheikhsecretaries News Agency Scale Industries Development Corporaprovide status reports Three Way News Agencytion TralLimited (SICOP) has registered a inBadru this News regard on aBijbehara turnover of Rs.904.81 crore during last Agency weekly basis. financial year, there by yielding an inMalik Agency The News meeting wasArwani come of Rs.26.07 crore for the CorporaShaheenby News Agency Kargil attended Principal tion.
CS reviews operationalization of new administrative units
SRINAGAR | FRIDAY
He said execution of development works on massive scale in nook and corner has steered the state on the thresh hold of a big socio economic revolution and the people of the state have started to reap its fruits. He sought people’s wholehearted cooperation to fructify dream of Chief Minister Mr Omar Abdullah to make J&K a prosperous and progressive self reliant state where every citizen shall have equal opportunity of justice and progress. Mr Rather cautioned the people against false propaganda of the opposition parties adding that they are unnerved with the un precedented achievements recorded during last five and half years of the present government .” This long march toward ushering the state into an era of lasting peace and prosperity shall continue relentlessly without any let up, with the support of the people.
struction work on road projects is expedited. The Ministers directed the officers to ensure the completion of all ongoing projects with one and half month so that people get benefitted as early as possible. They said that the government has undertaken a comprehensive road connectivity programme in Handwara constituency which should be completed without delay.
Ghazi Ghulam Nabi calls on Governor Srinagar, August 7: Mr. Ghazi Ghulam Nabi, known nationalist poet and writer, called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at the Raj Bhavan today. Mr. Nabi presented to the Governor a copy of the revised edition of “Phool Khila Kashmir Ka” a volume of his poems. The poems are on universal brotherhood and communal harmony.Mr. Nabi also discussed with the Governor the need for the intellectuals being enabled to play a larger role in fostering peace and harmony in the State.The Governor complimented Mr. Nabi for writing a meaningful volume of poems and appreciated his serious concern for the maintenance of peace and harmony.
Association of Recognized Private B.Ed. Colleges calls on Governor SRINAGAR, AUGUST 7: A deputation of Association
of Recognized Private B.Ed. Colleges led by Mr. R.S. Chib, called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at the Raj Bhavan yesterday. The deputation apprised the Governor about the pressing difficulties which were being faced by the private B.Ed. colleges in the Jammu region.
Don’t judge someone if he or she has a different lifestyle than what you consider to be OK, Scorpio. You probably lean toward the traditional, yet not everyone feels this way about relationships, working, or lifestyle. While it may seem impossible to understand and even frighten you, try not to be too harsh on those you deem odd. You’d be better off using that energy to keep your own life on track.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Friends seeking advice or a shoulder to cry on could be plentiful today, Sagittarius. You’re one of best people to give them the support and care they need. Just be sure that you don’t give so much to others that you don’t have anything left for yourself. True friendship is about sharing and the exchange of problems and help. Running yourself down will leave you in a place where you aren’t going to be much help to anyone.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
Getting through today shouldn’t pose too big a problem for you, Capricorn. You may feel a huge second wind that can give you the drive and determination to see your chores and projects through. Make some plans for this evening, such as getting together with friends or taking in an event that really intrigues you. Until then, go about your tasks bit by bit. You’ll get things finished before you know it.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Working within boundaries and restrictions could really get to you today, Aquarius. Yours is an independent spirit and your best achievements are often born of doing things your own way. Yet like it or not, we all have to follow guidelines and rules. Do your best to follow suit and finish what needs to be done. Afterward, you may find more freedom to act independently without consequences. Exercise patience and diligence as needed today.
Pisces
February 19-March 20 Chances are that you’ll feel upbeat and positive today, Pisces. Consider sharing this energy with those around you who are feeling less than content. Your attitude can have a profound effect on friends, partners, spouses, and children. Even neighbors and extended family can pick up on your spirit without you even realizing it. Share your optimism with everyone you can today. If you see someone hurt or angry.
EDITORIAL / OPINION Editorial/Opinion The Daily
Quote of the day
Zabarwan Times “You may be deceived if you trust too much, but you will live in torment if you Thursday, February do not 28 trust enough” 2013 Frank Crane
Child labour a challenge the society Illegal for felling of
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hild labour is not only a walnut trees crime against humanity but also a penal offence and a continues unabated
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religious sin. However he despite the legalenvironmental ban child labour degradation in whole menace continues unabated of the world is throughcausout the country. It is a real shame that ing many problems all of us not whoonly advocate against the for the world child labourbut encourage the living fame in populace for all one way or the other. From factories things including flora and fauna. Ourhomes state from is also facing the to the hotels to carpet same problem on the many counts weaving industry child labour asexists the forests are being reduced everywhere. The minors and tounder barren land and the trees in aged children are being the plains cut in exploited are and being recruited assuch petty alaborers way thatand daypaid is not far when very meager the state will become a cold wages. Even somebodyChinar or some desert. The ifmajestic organization pays felled them in their due trees have been hunwages and still itefforts is against the law to dreds of planting exploit these trees minorhave children who new Chinar hardly otherwisedesired should be in schools and yielded results. From educational institutions. In fact there Uri to Anantnag hundreds of Chinar standingabout like labour royis a totaltrees misconception allaws kings on people both need sidesto of the and the be made road have gradually vanished aware of them. Unless and until and oneare does not find people aware aboutnew the trees labour inlaws their place where they used they can never contribute to stop to grow in large number. Simthis menace. It is unethical and ilarly once forbidden mulberry against human values the, trees which were alsotointake abunmost difficult jobs from these childance in the valley have been dren whosebybodies and physical massacred those greedy peostrength is notno capable of what is ple who have consideration being taken from them. Inofthethese factoabout the importance trees. It isare because ofmost the blind ries they given the hazardfelling mulberry ous jobsofwhich are nottrees fit forthat them the ultimate business of silk and which results in deterioration of weaving hasin suffered jolt their health the cominga years. asSome the of weavers to left gethandithe them arefail even required material and capped forraw the whole of their age.ofIn course no proper marketing these factories no compensation for the silk products. Afteris given two to them or nobody takes care these kinds of trees were and ultimately are on the roads removed, thethey greedy smugto beghave for their lively hood. Similarly glers now switched over the transport sector many of the toinwalnut trees which are being children are either killed orinleft handfelled indiscriminately every nook and theabout valley. icapped butcorner nobodyof cares them Though there is ban on felling and there is no policy of any kind of ofinsurance walnut trees, but who cares either from the governinment Kashmir? Notransporters. authority or ofor from the A child ficer is menace exercising hisbewrit and labour cannot controlled powers to create a kind of conthrough enactment of laws. It can be trol on illegal felling of walnut eradicated when responsithe whole trees as theonly elements society against menble for itjoins are hands greasing thethis palms andconcerned creates awareness about the oface the officials. The exploitation of the children. walnut timber is minor in great deGovernment agencies especially the mand as it is used in making expensive furniture dec-its police department whichand has shed oration items which have a eyes at present has to come alive and flourishing market inthose and people outtake stern action against side However, it does not whostate. take jobs from minor children mean that we allow to finish up exploiting them because of their all our walnut trees and stop poverty. The legal agencies espegrowing walnut which too has non and governmental orgaacially goodthose market fetch lucranizations whofor provide free legal It aid tive returns the growers. the deservingfor people to give istoimperative thehave govt. to more attention towards child labour launch a campaign against iland felling contribute for its trees stoppage. legal of walnut so Unless all concern areloose together the that valley does not them like the way it happened in case child labour and the exploitation of ofminor Chinar and mulberry trees.and children will continue there will be no halt to it.
Daily Daily
Zabarwan ZABARWAN Times TIMES
Srinagar, Friday August 2013 2014 Thursday, 28 08 February
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KVIC for Holistic Development of Khadi
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reating self-reliance amongst the people and building up a strong rural community spirit, KVIC has been identified as one of the major organisations for generating sustainable non-farm employment opportunities in rural areas. It undertakes activities like skill improvement; transfer of technology; research & development; marketing etc. and helps in generating employment/self-employment opportunities in rural areas. Main Objectives of KVIC The social objective of providing employment in rural areas; · The economic objective of producing saleable articles; and · The wider objective of creating selfreliance amongst people and building up a strong rural community spirit. Functions The functions of KVIC as prescribed under the KVIC Act, 1956 (61 of 1956) and Rules made there under, include: · To plan and organise training of persons employed or desirous of seeking employment in khadi and village industries; · To build up directly or through specified agencies reserves of raw materials and implements and supply them or arrange supply of raw materials and implements to persons engaged or likely to be engaged in production of handspun yarn or khadi or village industries at such rates as the Commission may decide; · To encourage and assist in the creation of common service facilities for the processing of raw materials or semifinished goods and otherwise facilitate production and marketing of khadi or products of village industries; · To promote the sale and marketing of khadi or products of village industries or handicrafts and for this purpose forge links with established marketing agencies wherever necessary and feasible; · To encourage and promote research in the technology used in khadi and village industries, including the use of nonconventional energy and electric power with a view to increasing productivity, eliminating drudgery and otherwise enhancing their competitive capacity and to arrange for dissemination of salient results obtained from such research; · To undertake directly or through other
agencies, studies of the problems of khadi or village industries; · To provide financial assistance directly or through specified agencies to institutions or persons engaged in the development and operation of khadi or village industries and guide them through supply of designs, prototypes and other technical information, for the purpose of producing goods and services for which there is effective demand in the opinion of the Commission; · To undertake directly or through specified agencies, experiments or pilot projects which in the opinion of the Commission, are necessary for the
its activities are intended to usher the sector into an era of growth, increased income and employment and increased artisans welfare. · To strengthen the KVI Sector in the country, the following are some of the major steps taken by the the Ministry of MSME . · Introduction of Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme on production of khadi with effect from 1 April, 2010 to incentivize production and marketing of Khadi and Polyvastra besides earning 25% of the assistance to provide for financial incentives to artisans.
KVIC has been identified as one of the major organisations for generating sustainable non-farm employment
opportunities in rural areas. It undertakes
activities like skill improvement; transfer of technology; research & development;
marketing etc. and helps in generating employment/self-employment opportunities in rural areas.
development of khadi and village industries; · To establish and maintain separate organizations for the purpose of carrying out any or all of the above matters; · To promote and encourage cooperative efforts among the manufacturers of khadi or persons engaged in village industries; · To ensure genuineness and to set up standards of quality and ensure that products of khadi and village industries do conform to the said standards, including issue of certificates or letters of recognition to the concerned persons; and · To carry out any other activity incidental to the above. KVIC has not been mandated to be a profit making organization,
· Making available concessional credit (@ 4% interest) to khadi institutions under the Interest Subsidy Eligibility Certificate (ISEC) Scheme; · Providing financial support to institutions under the Scheme for Enhancing Productivity and Competitiveness of khadi industry and Artisans; · Providing better work environment to khadi spinners and weavers under the Workshed Scheme for Khadi Artisans; · Developing around 100 clusters of Khadi, Village Industries and Coir under Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) with improved equipment, business development services, training, capacity building
and exposure visits, design and marketing support and common facility centers · Apart from the above, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance has tied up funds from Asian Development Bank (ADB) amounting to US$150 million over a period of three years from 2009-10 for implementing a comprehensive Khadi Reform Programme worked out in consultation with ADB and KVIC. Under this reform package, it is proposed to revitalize the khadi sector with enhanced sustainability of khadi, increased incomes and employment to artisans and increased artisans welfare. Initially, the programme will be initiated in 300 khadi institutions in keeping with the needs of regional balance, geographical spread and inclusion of backward areas. The Ministry of MSME is also implementing Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), a credit-linked subsidy programme since 2008-09 through KVIC for generating self-employment opportunities through establishment of micro enterprises by organizing traditional artisans and unemployed youth, helping in preventing their migration besides increasing their earning capacity. At the State/Union Territories level, the scheme is implemented through field offices of KVIC, State/Union Territory Khadi and Village Industries Boards (KVIBs) and District Industries Centres(DICs) with involvement of Banks. Under this programme, beneficiaries can establish micro enterprises inter alia, under Mineral Based Industry; Forest Based Industry; Agro Based and Food Processing Industry, Polymer and Chemical Based Industry, Rural Engineering and BioTechnology Industry, Hand Made Paper & Fibre Industry and Service Industry, by availing of margin money subsidy of 25 percent of project cost for units in rural areas to be set up by beneficiaries belonging to general category, which will be 35 percent for beneficiaries belonging to special categories such as scheduled cast/scheduled trible /Women and others through the implementing agencies and loans from Banks, etc., for projects costing upto Rs.25 lakh each in the manufacturing sector and upto Rs.10 lakh each in the services sector.
Civil Service in Public Service Delivery
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ndia’s Civil Services have a proud record of contribution to national integration and development for which our whole nation has to be grateful to them. Central Civil Services are the backbone of the governance structure of our nation. They have played a vital role in the task of nation building, right from the time we achieved independence, to the present day. It was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision that the Civil Service should strengthen cohesion and national unity. He wanted a strong and vibrant federal administrative system in which the All India Services would play an important role. True to his conviction, the Civil Services have provided the framework for the administration of the country. The values of integrity, impartiality and merit remain the guiding principles of Civil Services and that is as it should be. Sardar Patel advised young officers at the dawn of Independence in 1947: “Above all I would advise you to maintain to the utmost the impartiality and incorruptibility of administration. A Civil Servant cannot afford to, and must not, take part in politics. Nor must he involve himself in communal wrangles. To depart from the path of rectitude in either of these respects is to debase public service and to lower its dignity. Similarly no service worth the name can claim to exist if it does not have in view the achievement of the highest standard of integrity.” Ensuring National Cohesion and Unity At the time of our Independence, the nation was faced with many problems and definitely the issue of keeping it together as one was not the least important among them. Ensuring unity given its diversity was indeed a great concern and the Civil Services played their historic role in nurturing the processes of national cohesion and unity. The All-India Services played an important role in strengthening the bonds of unity and integrity, under the leadership of visionary leaders like Panditji and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Yet, one must ask the question today whether the services have fully lived up to the Sardar’s exhortations about integrity and commitment to secular values. Both corruption and communalism remain as important a challenge today as they appeared to Sardar Patel in 1947. Civil
Servants have played multiple roles in the initial years of our nation building process. A wide range of tasks spanning a variety of knowledge areas were undertaken for completion by civil servants as the country had a severe shortage of trained personnel in many areas. In addition to performing their main role of administrators, civil servants took upon many other roles which were of specialists in different fields. It was the requirement of the time and they rose to the occasion. Along with a maturing of the nation, the role of the Civil Service has also been changing. However, throughout this process of change that the country has been experiencing, the Civil Services has continued to be an important instrument for initiating and management of change.
and goals and therefore the great importance of having a permanent Civil Service to pay attention to all these issues and view all these issues in the framework of strategic longterm thinking taking into account our national interest. Therefore, civil servants represent a national establishment with a national responsibility. They continue to constitute the “steel frame work” of our Republic. It gives them the opportunity to guide a political leadership that is subject to the law of electoral change. Governments may come and go, but the administration endures and must play its due role. New Challenges As the economy evolves and society and polity change over time as they must, Government and the Civil Service must also
Central Civil Services are the backbone of the governance structure of our nation.
They have played a vital role in the task of nation building, right from the time we
achieved independence, to the present day. Understanding Nation’s Needs & Priorities However, there is a larger purpose and a larger role that a meritocracy must fulfill. Our national leaders like Panditji and Sardar Patel viewed the All India Services as a group of professionals who would take a long-term view of the nation’s needs and priorities. While the state and local administration would focus on day-to-day issues of governance, the All India Services were charged with the responsibility of thinking ahead and into the future. This role has only increased with the emergence of strong competitive political forces in various parts of our country. Democracy is built into the body politic and in our constitutional system. But we have also with it witnessed growing in short tenure of Government and politicians are not able to pay attention to longer term concerns or to weigh carefully the trade-offs between various objectives
prepare themselves to play a new and varied roles. Markets will increasingly become the arbitrators of resource allocation in many cases. At the same time, it is necessary to realise that markets can at times lead to marginalisation of the poor and the vulnerable sections of our society. It must not be forgotten that markets after all, serve those who are part of the market system. When millions of people are living on the edges of subsistence, with little in the form of assets or skills to be active participants in the evolving market economy, market signals cannot have significance for them. While markets can facilitate higher growth, a government must ensure that growth is equitable, inclusive and not unduly harsh on those not equipped to manage change. The modernization of both economy and society will require Governments to play new roles and in an increasingly transparent manner. Civil
servants must learn to grapple with the phenomenal explosion of knowledge. They will have to learn to seek the right information and utilize it for public good. Another aspect of government that is going to change is in the arena of accountability. Through greater access to information and effective mechanisms to seek redressal, the average citizen is likely to demand his or her due and is not going to be very patient about it. The Right to Information Act has empowered the citizens to seek more information from Governments about their functioning. Further, there has been an explosion of civil society activities. Governments need to constructively engage with various elements in the civil society, actively seek answers to problems in a transparent manner and manage the interface with public opinion effectively. Modern governments will have to therefore reorient themselves to this reality. Historically, governments have viewed themselves as administrators of public delivery services. They have viewed citizens as outside beneficiaries of governmental action. Citizens were expected to accept whatever was provided, with little choice on offer. This situation is changing all over the world. Citizens are now expecting good service from Governments as a matter of right. Governments are expected to deliver efficient public services or facilitate privatisation. Effectiveness and efficiency of public service delivery is increasingly being demanded as a basic right of our citizens. Government is expected to be a service-provider rather than a mere administrator of a public service delivery system. This change in orientation is the third key challenge facing the governments of this day. The Civil Service has to reorient itself and be trained to deliver better services to our people. To make Government more efficient, we need a new public service orientation in the thinking of civil servants. They cannot view themselves as mere administrators. They are also managers and catalytic agents of change. They have to manage change and manage it efficiently and equitably and manage efficient delivery of public services.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer. Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer