C M Y K
SUNDAY 10 August | 2014 | 13 Shawal, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
Pen
For
http://www.zabarwantimes.com
Iraq’s federal forces ready to reclaim lost ground as US strikes begin
Srinagar, August 9: A 22-yearold youth allegedly committed suicide by hanging himself inside his home here in Khanyar area of down town Srinagar on Saturday. Zahid Mushtaq son of Mushtaq Ahmad Khan of Badu Bagh, Khanyar area of Old city who was a gas dealer today morning hanged himself inside his home. The family members of the gas dealer after spotting him hanging inside the room, they immediately rushed him to the nearby hospital where doctors declared him brought dead, sources said. A police official confirmed the incident said that we have registered a case under 174 CrPc and further investigations have been taken up. (GNS)
30 Kgs Poppy straw seized, 03 arrested in Kulgam Srinagar, Aug 9 : Police sized 30 kgs of poppy straw and arrested three persons in Kulgam last evening. Acting on special information regarding the three persons, Riyaz Ahmad Wani son of Ghulam Rasool Wani resident of Bugam Kulgam, Bilal Ahmad Bhat son of Abdul Rashid Bhat resident of OKai, Kulgam and Mohammad Rafiq Khanday son of Abdul Rashid Khanday resident of Pooniwa were carrying poppy straw in Santro Car bearing registration number JK03B/6938. Police Kulgam stopped the vehicle near Wanpoh Qaimoh, in the jurisdiction of police station Kulgam. See Kulgam On PG 11..
tice
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
Rajnath ‘captain’, Amit Shah ‘man of the match’ of Lok Sabha polls: Narendra Modi
>>>>> PG 10
22-year-old hangs self in Srinagar
Jus
VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 219 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)
C M Y K
Telangana refuses to hand over law and order of Hyderabad to guv
>>>>> PG 10
>>>>> PG 10
Omar addresses pass outs at SKPA Army to tighten LoC vigil for smooth conduct Announces removal of pay of assembly elections’ anomalies for police force Udhampur, Aug 9 : While wishing success to the passing out cadets at the Sher-i-Kashmir Police Academy (SKPA) here on Saturday, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah said that the cadets are joining Jammu and Kashmir Police Force which is emerging as one of the most important police forces in the Country facing challenges of different natures on law and order front and combating militancy. The Chief Minister referred to the great sacrifices made by the J&K Police Force to help restore peace in the State and curb militancy. He expressed the hope that the new pass outs alongwith oth-
Joining of militant ranks by educated youth a matter of concern: Lt Gen Saha Srinagar, Aug 8 : Stating that a number of Jammu and Kashmir educated Youth joining militancy was a worrying factor, the Army Saturday emphasized that it is a matter of concern but the force was taking initiatives to engage them meaningfully. According to KNS correspondent while talking to reporters here in Budgam district of Central Kashmir, Lt Gen Subrata Saha, GoC Chinar Corps, said, “I would submit that any youth joining militancy is disturbing. And if educated youth are joining, it is more disturbing. To that extent yes, it certainly causes concern to us. It certainly encourages us to take initiatives to keep the youth more meaningfully engaged,” Lt Gen Saha further said that checking infiltration from across the Line of Control (LoC) was an important factor in ensuring secure conditions for the upcoming assembly elections. “Because of the improvement and robustness of the counter- infiltration posture, we are able to prevent infiltration from happening and that I think is the important factor in ensuring the secure conditions for the people to be able to exercise their franchise during the elections,” he said. The core commander further
er personnel of J&K Police Force will continue to exhibit the characteristic of being humane, people-friendly, justice giving equitably, prompt in service delivery and helping people in all circumstances. He also advised them for rendering their sevice with dedication and honesty. The Chief Minister on the occasion announced enhancement of ration money allowance of police personnel to Rs. 800 per month with effect from July 2014 and Rs. 1000 per month from April 2015 onwards. This will involve an additional financial spending See Omar On PG 11..
Mufti seeks people’s support for equality, justice added that there was no increase in infiltration attempts from across the LoC and “the trends and pattern in infiltration are quite similar to what they were in the previous years.” He said that providing a conducive atmosphere for holding peaceful elections is a priority for him and the effective counter-infiltration grid on the LoC is helping in securing the situation in the Valley. Vigil on LoC has become more imperative in order to provide a peaceful and conducive atmosphere for people to cast their franchise in the upcoming as-
sembly elections. These measures on LoC have already reduced the level of infiltration,” but “if people and the jawans are not together, then situation will never get better”. Lt Gen Saha rejected the reports that the level of infiltration has increased saying that there are attempts of infiltration but the level has not increased. However, he added that the army is ready to face any eventuality. Meanwhile, Lt Gen Saha, unveiled a life sized statue of Naib Subedar Chuni Lal, See Saha On PG 11..
Says PDP stands for equal development of all regions Jammu, Aug 9 : Assuring that his party
would fulfil aspirations and wishes of all regions and sub-regions of the State, patron of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today sought support of the people to change destiny of the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. He reaffirmed PDP’s commitment to accommodate aspirations of all regions and sub-regions while formulating a vision document for the State. According to a statement issued to KNS, addressing a function organised by party candidate from Jammu East Bharat Chowdhary here this morning, Mufti said that PDP would come up a compre-
hensive vision document to address all issues pertaining to the Jammu city. He assured that a comprehensive plan would be formulated to restore heritage of Jammu city. Mufti reminded that people about steps which were taken during the PDP led regime for the beautification of Jammu city. In the function Deepak Gupta, vice chairman Citizen Cooperative Bank, Ramesh Choudhary, block president NC, Haji Fazal Ahmed, senior NC leader from Nagrota and S S Sarangal, retired Judge joined PDP. He said that during its tenure the PDP led regime had proved its capability of changing life of the common masses by treating all individual equally See Mufti On PG 11..
Jenab Omar Abdullah
(Hon’ble Chief Minister J&K State)
Jenab Viqar Rasool
Jenab Ali Mohammad Sagar
(Hon'ble Minister of State for Technical Education (Independent Charge) & Rural Dev and Panchayati Raj)
(Hon`ble Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj )
Online inauguration of 200 Panchayat Ghars worth Rs. 40 crores On 11th August 2014 from Kijpora (Kangan) at 11:30 a.m. which will be telecasted live on DD Kashir SALIENT FEATURES
C M Y K
>> Unit cost of per Panchayat Ghar @ Rs. 20 lacs. >> Full-fledged office with adequate staff and infrastructure. >> Room for Sarpanch. >> Room for Panchs. >> Meeting Hall. >> Room for Panchayat Adalat. >> Room for clerical staff. >> IT facility shall be also installed.
District-wise break-up of Panchayat Ghars to be inaugurated District Anantnag Bandipora Baramulla Budgam Ganderbal Kargil
No. of Pyt Ghars 29 19 35 20 16 12
District Kulgam Kupwara Leh Pulwama Shopian Srinagar
No. of Pyt Ghars 10 22 20 10 6 1
Courtesy :- Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Kashmir Division
C M Y K
11
Srinagar, Sunday 10 August 2014
FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Saha Ashok Chakra (Posthumous), Vir Chakra, Sena Medal, at a glittering ceremony held at the JAK LI Regimental Centre. Naib Subedar Chunni Lal was born in Bhaderwah in 1968 and joined the Army in 1984 as a Young Soldier. Throughout his exemplary military career, he remained an epitome of professionalism, extra ordinary grit and a source of inspiration for one and all. The family members of this brave heart were also present at the unveiling ceremony. Naib Subedar Chunni Lal, earned his SENA MEDAL within three years of his service in 1987 during the capture of Quaid Post (later renamed as Bana Top) in SIACHEN Glacier. He proved his mettle yet again in 2000 at the Line of Control in Poonch Sector, where he was awarded the VIR CHAKRA for display of conspicuous courage in the face of the enemy and audacious bravery beyond the call of duty. This unrelenting and brave son of the soil achieved the pinnacle of glory in 2007 where he achieved martyrdom while combating militants in Keran Sector. Despite being grievously injured during the contact, Naib Subedar Chunni Lal, along with his team eliminated five militants. For this gallant act Naib Subedar Chuni Lal, Vir Chakra, Sena Medal was awarded ‘ASHOK CHAKRA’ (POSTHUMOUS). The Corps Commander speaking on the occasion relived the day wherein Naib Subedar Chunni Lal achieved martyrdom. Back in 2007 the Corps Commander, was the Brigade Commander of the formation under which this operation was conducted and the he felt privileged to be unveiling the statue of this gallant soldier who operated under him. The corps Commander made a special mention of the fact that Naib Subedar Chuni Lal won gallantry awards in all three major regions of J&K namely Leh, Jammu and Kashmir. The GOC also expressed his gratitude to the proud parents and hailed the un-deterred patriotism of the family which, despite their loss, further sent the son of the JCO to join the Indian Army in the footsteps of his father. Commandant, JAKLI Regt Centre said that Naib Subedar Chunni Lal stands as a hallmark of patriotism which runs deep in the youth of J&K and the same is instrumental in defeating inimical designs. He further stated that Naib Subedar Chunni Lal has left a void in the Army which is extremely hard to fill, but his name and actions will always remain etched in memories of each and every soldier, inspiring awe as well as desire to prove ones battle worthiness. The name of Naib Subedar Chunni Lal today also stands incorporated in the Limca Book of World Records as the Most Decorated Soldier of the Indian Army. (KNS)
Omar of around Rs. 72 crores.Omar Abdullah also announced removal of pay anomalies at the level of Head Constable and Assistant Sub-Inspector. He said that government has taken many measures for the welfare of J&K Police personnel and would take further steps in this regard. In case of Head Constables the new scale will be 4500125-7000 from pre-revised to 4300-100-5900 and that of Assistant Sub-Inspectors 5000-150-8000 from pre-revised to 4500-7000. Detail modalities on this account will be worked out by the Home Department in consultation with the Finance Department. The Chief Minister on the occasion also inaugurated Police Auditorium, took salute at the march past and gave away prizes to the outstanding cadets. Minister for R&B, Abdul Majid Wani and Minister of State for Home, Sajjad Ahmad Kitchloo were also present on the occasion. The Director General Police, K. Rajindra also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the sacrifices of J&K Police Force. (KNS)
Mufti and providing equal opportunities to all sections of the society. “Although we had just 16 members in the Assembly, we provided good governance to the people by streamlining functioning of all the wings of the government”, he said and added that it was only during the PDP led regime that governance consciousness was generated in the people of Jammu and Kashmir and the common masses had a taste of good governance. He added that PDP led regime had brought transparency and accountability in the governance by strengthening democratic institutions in the state. Highlighting achievements of the previous PDP led regime, he said that previous government led regime had carved out a path of peace and equitable development in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and had laid strong foundation of development in the state. He said that it was only during PDP led regime equal treatment was given to all regions and sub-regions of the State. “Before formation of PDP led regime in 2002, there were complaints of discrimination and step motherly treatments with some regions”, he recalled, adding “PDP-Congress regime had not only removed these discrimination but also empowered Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regions equally” Speaking on the occasion, Vikramaditiya Singh, who joined PDP on Friday, said that Mufti Mohammad Sayeed as chief minister of the State had set an example of good governance by treating all regions equally. “I firmly believe and assure you that aspirations and wishes of the people of Jammu region would be addressed only by the PDP under the leadership of a visionary leader like Mufti Mohammad Sayeed”, he said and exhorted the youth of Jammu region to join the campaign for change under the guidance of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. “Our struggle is to restore Dogra pride and to fulfil aspirations and wishes of the people of Jammu region”, Vikramaditya said, adding, “it is big challenge but I am confident that under the leadership of the statesman like Mufti Sayeed we will achieve our target”. Vikramaditya Singh also emphasised on the need of channelizing energy of the youth to set up a new system in the State. Trilok Singh Bajwa, Yash Pal Sharma, Ved Mahajan, Hamid Choudhary, Hussain Ali Bafa, Rashid Malik, Jagjeet Singh Jagga, Dr Kamal Saini, Ram Swaroop, Ashok Jogi, Dinesh Gupta, Vijay Raina, Zaffar Khan, Vikram Singh, Chaman Angral and others were present. (KNS)
Kulgam During the search 30 Kgs of Poppy straw were seized from the vehicle. Kulgam Police arrested all the three and seized the vehicle. Police has registered an FIR number 174/2014 under section 15-18 NDPS and investigation is on. (KNS)
Zabarwan Times
‘Influential’ man Controversy over Handwara PHE scam grabs Waqaf land Concerned minister is author of all Waqaf officials scams: Sajad Lone in slumber Srinagar, Aug 9 (KNS): Reacting over the recent controversy wherein National Conference Minister Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan abused and humiliated Chief Engineer PHE AM Lankar during a review meeting, Peoples Conference chairman Sajjad Lone Saturday said that attempts were being made to divert attention and create a perception as if the Minister was fighting to unearth some scam. In a statement issued to KNS, he said, “The reality as it exists is that the concerned minister is the author of all scams in that region. The National conference MLAs in the area have hardly left any
department untouched. PHE is a unique case.” “I personally don’t know the Chief Engineer and have never met him (Chief Engineer) or talked to him. But by all accounts he (Chief Engineer) seems to be a man of impeccable integrity. The minister in question ensured that three Executive Engineers were transferred in a space of two years,” Lone added. The PC chief said that when the police almost raided the PHE department and found gross irregularities, surprisingly the investigating officer was transferred and no FIR was lodged. He said though there are gross irregularities in the works of the department as funds have been released for non-existent schemes, “ironically all the beneficiaries are the local office bearers of the ruling National Conference.” “If the government has the will, there is enough documentary evidence to nail the culprits. There
is the audacious case of cheques from the department having been issued to different persons and from those accounts all the money was transferred to one single account, who is a close relative of the concerned minister,” Lone said. He appealed to the Crime Branch to talk to all the concerned stakeholders of the area and “we volunteer our services to identify the irregularities and the persons involved.” “Let this not be a token, routine investigation but an investigation which identifies and nails the culprits. We with all the information at our command stress that the minister was batting for the culprits and not against them. The minster is the beneficiary of the scam as all the people involved are his cronies or close relatives. Some are out in the open and some transactions are of benami nature,” the PC chief added. (KNS)
Cop attached after thrashing a student Incident evokes massive protests Pattan, Aug 9: The driver of Station House Officer Kreeri Pattan was immediately attached to Police Lines Baramulla on Saturday after he allegedly thrashed a 10th standard student without any ‘provocation’. The incident evoked massive protest and it was only after the intervention of Deputy Commissioner Baramulla that protestors dispersed peacefully as he assured them prompt action against ‘erring’ cop. Principal Green Land Public School Kreeri told CNS that police and Para-military troopers had been deployed in strength as the town observed shutdown to commemorate the ‘chahrum’ of slain youth Mudasir Sofi whose bullet ridden body was recovered by police from a house Kreeri a few days back. “As the school went off, I advised both the male and female teachers to accompany students. I did it because there was not only heavy deployment but the situation was also tense. What happened next shocked us all. Our 10th
class student Syed Faisal Hilal in proper uniform was stopped by the driver of SHO Kreeri and was thrashed mercilessly in presence of female teachers. He received fracture in his left arm and was shifted to nearby hospital for treatment,” he said adding that the said cop also abused one of the female teacher when she tried to intervene. The incident according to eyewitnesses sparked massive protest while the locals joined school staff and students and all of them demanded stern action against the police driver whom they identified as Constable Ghulam Hasan. The school authorities informed Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Farooq Ahmed Lone who rushed to spot and pacified the protestors. “Whatever happened was unfortunate and we are investigating the matter. I have assured people of prompt action if the cop would be found guilty,” DC Baramulla told CNS. Station House Officer Kreeri Ghulam Nabi said that soon after the incident, some people resorted to stone-pelting while police exercised maximum restraint and did not retaliate. He further said that the police driver has been transferred.
Assault on lady doctor Report to be submitted today Srinagar, Aug 9: Health Department has taken serious note of the alleged assault on lady doctor by a Congress leader at Community Health Centre Hajin in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district. “The Committee will submit factual report on Sunday and if it gets proved that the lady doctor was assaulted, then the department will impress upon the state government to take stringent action against the guilty,” Block Medical Officer Hajin, Dr Tariq Hasan told CNS adding that under rules no doctor is allowed to leave the hospital premises during his or her duty whether during night or the day. Pertinently, Police had booked the son of former government gunman Imtiyaz Ahmed Parray, who is also associated with Congress party, in the assault case following a complaint by the female doctor on Wednesday. The FIR (84/2014) had been lodged in police station Sumbal. “We are investigating the case thoroughly and today we have recorded the statements of witnesses. We will arrest the accused soon after we complete the investigation,” a top police official told CNS. The outgoing Chief Medical Officer Bandipora G.M.Dar said that the matter is also being investigated by
Amarnath Yatra 2014 to conclude today
Over 3.75 lakh paid obeisance, Death toll 45
Srinagar, Aug 9: The annual Amarnath pilgrimage that began on June 28 will conclude on Sunday on Shravan Purnima as 'Charri Mubarak', the holy mace of Lord Shiva, will reach the cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas. "The annual Amarnath pilgrimage will conclude on Sunday. A caravan headed by Mahant Deependra Giri, the custodian of the Charri Mubarak, reached Panjtarani on Saturday evening while officials told CNS that they will depart from Panjtarani during wee hours to holy cave where they will perform pooja which will mark the culmination of the 43-day yatra. Governor N N Vohra, who is also chairman of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, will attend the pooja at the cave shrine. The celebrations for Shravan Purnima, which coincides with Raksha Bandhan according to SASB officials will be filled with religious fervour at the arrival of the holy mace of Lord Shiva in the cave shrine, situated at a height of 3,880 metres. Incharge
Joint Police Control Room, Abdul Hamid told CNS that over 3.75 lakh pilgrims paid obeisance at the cave shrine. “208732 pilgrims paid obeisance at the cave through Baltal route while the number of pilgrims that visited the cave through Pahalgam was 138370,” he said adding that 45 pilgrims died during the course of yatra. “26 pilgrims died on Pahalgam route while 19 pilgrims lost their lives while visiting the cave through Baltal route,” he said adding that last year 14 pilgrims died last year during the course of yatra. Last year all but 3.50 lakh pilgrims visited the cave which was the lowest number of pilgrims visiting the cave shrine in almost a decade following strict implementation by Jammu and Kashmir government of the Supreme Court directions in this regard. Access control gates were set up by the authorities at various places en route both traditional Pahalgam and shorter Baltal tracks and no unregistered pilgrim was allowed to proceed towards the cave
shrine. Chief Medical Officer Anantnag, Dr Nazir Shadab told CNS that during the annual yatra police hospital attended 2115 patients, while the at Nunwan Base Camp the health department sponsored hospital took care of 10282 ailing yatri’s. He said that ISM sponsored first aid camp attended at least 16000 patients. This year the Amarnath Yatra was suspended twice due to inclement weather and scuffle between pony operators and community kitchen operators. Expressing satisfaction over the smooth conduct of this year’s Yatra, Shri Amarnath Shrine Board thanked the StateGovernment, Army, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, State Police, BSNL, the 5 Banks involved with the registration of pilgrims and all other concerned organizations, particularly the Indian Meteorological Department, and the people of the State, for their valuable contribution to the organization of the Yatra. (CNS)
>>>> Kunan Poshpora >>>>
Court dismisses revision petition by army Srinagar, August 9: The first legal challenge by the Indian army after passing 23 years in the Kunan Poshpora mass rape and torture case has been dismissed by a local court in Kupwara district of north Kashmir on Saturday. According to GNS, the sessions Court, Kupwara dismissed the revision petition of the Indian army that sought an end to further investigations ordered in the case on 18 June 2013 by Sub-judge, Judicial Magistrate, Kupwara. This was the first legal challenge by the Indian army since the crimes were committed in 23/24 February in 1991. Rather than legally face the allegations, the army has consistently sought to intimidate and slander the survivors, and through various persons and institutions obfuscate the truth.The Sessions Court, while dismissing the Indian army petition as having no merit, held that “crime never dies” and that a delay in investigations does not debar the investigating agency from unraveling the truth. The Court held that
the army petition had been filed only on the basis of assumptions and apprehensions and that prospective accused had no right to be heard and should only cooperate with investigations.The Court censured the Jammu and Kashmir Police for their “non-seriousness” and their “casual and irresponsible manner” apparent from their years of delay in investigating the case and filing a final report before a court. But, the Court held as “significant” that the police had sought to close the case as “untraced” thereby confirming that a crime had taken place and that it was only a question of identifying the perpetrators. The survivors continue their struggle before the High Court where the petition seeks court-monitored investigations by a Special Investigation Team, compensation and has also arrayed as parties B.G. Verghese and Wajahat Habibullah, who through their respective reports for the Press Council of India and as Divisional Commissioner assisted the army in the cover up. (GNS)
Srinagar, Aug 9, Already under criticism for “mismanagement” and “wrongdoings”, Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Waqf Board according to locals of Soura Srinagar has given a free hand to a particular influential person to occupy Waqf land measuring 1.5 kanal. The residents of Soura told CNS that the fertile land measuring 1.5 kanal under Khasra number 8 located at Khandwah Chek Aanchar Soura is the property of Waqaf
Board but due to reasons better known to the officials of the Waqaf, a person has been given free hand to encroach it while no action has been initiated by Waqaf in this regard. “This land is very fertile and it has trees worth lakhs of rupees. We have apprehensions that some Waqaf officials are in league with the person and they are stopping other officials from taking action against the encroacher who according to locals is influential,” they said. Despite repeated attempts, vice chairman Waqaf Board did not respond to phone calls. (CNS)
Ladies Grievance Cell while District Social Welfare Officer Bandipora who also probed the matter will submit its report on Sunday. Meanwhile, the victim female doctor was relieved from the CHC Hajin after her request to Directorate Health Services Kashmir to transfer her to some other place. “How can a male assault a female and that too during late hours in the hospital. I seek stringent punishment to the ‘guilty’,” the victim lady doctor told CNS. President Doctors Association of Kashmir, Dr Nisar-ul-Hasan while seeking immediate arrest of Congress politician told CNS that the assault on lady doctor from a Congress politician proves that they dare to do this because they enjoy impunity. “Fear of accountability forces a person to abide by law of land and when there is no accountability, how come we expect that politicians like Imtiyaz Parrey will refrain himself from violating the law,” he said. Meanwhile, the supporters of Congress leader Imtiyaz Parrey staged a protest in press enclave and demanded the transfer of lady doctor from Community Health Centre Hajin. (CNS)
02 die, 13 injured in road mishaps Srinagar, Aug 9 : Two persons died and thirteen others were injured in different road accidents across the valley. A Motorcycle bearing registration number JK01G/2528 met with an accident at Arigam, in the jurisdiction of police station Pulwama, resulting is on spot death of the motorcyclist Mohammad Lateef Saudagar son of Abdul Salam resident of Chodharybagh Rainawari, Srinagar and injuries to the pillion and a pedestrian. Pulwama police has registered a case in this regard. Meanwhile, a Matador bearing registration number JK09/1969 and a Maruti Van bearing registration number JK09A/1509 collided on Baramulla Handwara NHW near Kouhru Bridge Langate, in the jurisdiction of police station Handwara, resulting in injuries to four persons including the driver of the van. All
the injured were shifted to Sub District Hospital Langate where driver of the Van Tariq Ahmad Mir son of Saidullah Mir resident of Qunail Qaziabad succumbed to his injuries. In another accident, a Tata Sumo bearing registration number JK05C/9112 hit and injured Abdul Aziz Kalis resident of Gujjer Pati Baderkal at Wadipora road, in the jurisdiction of police station Handwara. The injured was shifted to sub district Hospital Handwara for treatment. Handwara police has registered a case in this regard. In another accident, a Tata Mobile hit and injured a pedestrian Bashir Ahmad Hajam resident of Cheki Samad near Mandgori, in the jurisdiction of police station D.H Pora, Kulgam. The injured has been shifted to Hospital for treatment. Kulgam police has registered a case in this regard.
OFFICE OF THE CHILD DEVELOPMENT PROJECT ICDS PROJECT KHOVRIPORA Mtr. Adleena Sadiq AWW Halwan A No: CDPO/KVP/2014/471-74 Dated: 05/08/2014
Subject: Final Notice 1. Where as you were found absent from duties since 2 months from the date of inspection to your Anganwadi center Halwan by the undersigned on 10.6.2014. 2. Where as you were informed to resume duties vide office letter No: CDPO/KVP/2014/434 dated: 10.07.2014 and you failed to resume duties in stipulated time. 3. Where as in continuation to the aforesaid communication you were again informed / directed to resume duties within 2 days and you failed to resume duties and couldn’t get replied in your defence. 4. Whereas you are once again directed through the medium of this news paper and a final opportunity of 5 days is granted to you to resume duties failing which your honorary services will be disengaged without issuing further notice. DIPK No: 4795
Sd/- Child Development Project Officer ICDS Khoveripora
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
H
NEWS
Daily ZABARWAN TIMES
Iraq’s federal forces ready to reclaim lost ground as US strikes begin
Iraq’s federal and Kurdish forces Saturday prepared their bid to reclaim lost ground as US jets pounded jihadist positions to pave the way and also dropped aid to stranded civilians. President Barack Obama’s decision to send warplanes back to Iraq, three years after pulling the last US troops out of the country, marked a potential turning point in the two-monthold conflict. After a first day of US air raids on Islamic State (IS) fighters who had moved within Kurdish capital Arbil. ists. striking distance of Kurdistan, Iraqi Foreign Minister “The Iraqi army and the a top official in the autonomous Hoshyar Zebari, a Kurd who peshmerga are fighting side-byregion said the time had come has boycotted cabinet meetings side in the same trenches now,” for a fightback. for weeks as relations soured he said. launch F/A-18 fighter air- with Baghdad, said that failing Iraq’s military chief of staff, craft from the flight deck of the to arm the Kurdish peshmerga Babaker Zebari, told AFP on aircraft carrier USS George forces had been a costly mis- Friday that US advisers, peshH.W. Bush (CVN 77) in the Gulf take. merga and federal top brass “Following the US strikes, He said the American air were “selecting targets” tothe peshmerga will first reLone News Agency Kangan News Agency Ganderbal strikes had stopped the rot Khan on gether. group, second redeploy ar- Agency GulzarinNews Souraand allowed the fedZahid Book the ground TheDepot firstChadoora US bombings eas they retreatedTariq fromNews andAgency Bashirstruck News IS Agency Nowhatta eral Hawal and Kurdish authorities positions and at least third help the displaced return to unite behind the common one convoy of vehicles carryMuzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk to their homes,” Fuad Hussein cause of defeating the IS jihad- ing militants west of Arbil. Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk told reporters Friday in the
Zabarwan Times is available at
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 Altaf News Agency Pulwama Jeelani News Agency Baramulla Shah Agency Kupwara The United States andNews ments, acknowledging the India must seize opportutwoAgency countries - the world’s Younis News Langate nities to collaborateReshi moreNews oldest democracy and the Agency Islamabad on defense development world’s largest - must be Turray News Agency Tral and not let government “results oriented” and do Newsmore Agency red tape and otherRahi probto Kulgam “transform our RahbeNewsnations’ Agency Byepass lems stymie progress defense coopera-
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 The BJP on Saturday hit out at Rahul Reyaz News Agency Pampore Gandhi Javaid News Agency Qazigund over his reported comment that communal conflicts in UP have been G.M News Agency Sopore “deliberately engineered”, saying it was SultantoNews Agency is hoping partner withHandwara Congress which was doing communal IndiaSheikh as it modernizes itsIslamabad News Agency politics and the statement itself reflected military, Indian Threebut Way NewsleadAgencysuch Trala thinking. ers are more Environment minister and senior Badru Newsinterested Agency Bijbehara in co-development oppor- BJP leader Prakash Javadekar said Malik News Agency Arwani tunities than in simply whatever is happening in Uttar Pradesh Shaheen News Agency Kargil buying American-made was because of Congress as it took sup-
US, India must improve defence cooperation: Chuck Hagel
tween the two nations, US defense secretary Chuck Hagel said on Saturday. Capping two days of meetings here, Hagel’s speech to New Delhi business leaders and scholars reflected the hopes and frustrations of America’s struggles to forge weapons development agreements with India. Hagel leaves India with few concrete agree-
tion from simply buying and selling to co-production, co-development, and freer exchange of technology.” In meetings with top Indian government leaders he pressed for broader coordination in new weapons production, including a pilot plan for the two nations to jointly develop a next-generation anti-tank missile. The US
Devotees to pay obeisance of ancient cave of Swami Amarnathji at Thajiwara Bijbehara on 10th August ANANTNAG, AUGUST 09: As per the old traditions the devotees throng at the ancient cave of Swami Amarnathji at village Thajiwara Bijbehara in Anantnag district for special darshan of Shiv Lingam on the occasion of Shravan Puranmashi (Raksha Bandhan). The day is coincided with the culmination of Shri Amarnath Yatra. It is believed that the ancient cave has religious significance like Shri Amarnathji cave and devotees pay obeisance and special prayers like Amarnath pilgrimage. Thousands of devotees visit this ancient cave to pay obeisance of Shri Amarnath Swamiji every year. The Devasthan Prabandak Committee, Veer-Nowbug, Thajiwara which manages the cave affairs has made fervent appeal to the devotees to visit in large number at the holy cave of Shri Amarnathji at Thajiwara on 10th of August (Sunday) to participate in the special prayer and obeisance of Lord Shiva. The management Committee has made elaborate arrangements for the smooth darshan, free langer, drinking water and other facilities for the devotees at the shrine cave.
A White House spokesman said Friday the strikes would be “very limited in scope”, but Babaker Zebari said he thought US air support would extend to other areas. He said the intervention would allow joint action to reclaim large tracts of land lost to the Sunni extremists since they launched their devastating offensive on June 9, exactly two months ago. The Pentagon also said late Friday that cargo planes escorted by combat jets made a second air drop of food and water to “thousands of Iraqi citizens” threatened by the jihadists on Mount Sinjar. Obama justified the strikes on Thursday by the threat to US personnel in Kurdistan and the need to avert a genocide against Sinjar’s Yazidi community.Thousands of Yazidis, a Kurdish-speaking minority following an ancient faith rooted in Zoroastrianism, fled their homes a week ago when militants attacked the town of
Many of them have since been stranded in the nearby mountain range, with no food and water in searing temperatures. Several thousand have made their own way to Turkey or Syria after walking for days, while others have been evacuated by Kurdish fighters from both those countries. Smoke rises after airstrikes by the U.S. forces targeting Islamic State militants near the Khazer checkpoint outside of the city of Irbil in northern Iraq But aid groups and rescued Yazidis say a larger number remain trapped and in dire need of assistance. “They suffer from dehydration, sunstroke and some of them are seriously traumatised,” International Rescue Committee acting country director Suzanna Tkalec told AFP of some 4,000 survivors to whom her organisation is providing emergency care in Syria.
BJP hits out at Rahul, says Congress indulging in communal politics
weapons. “For both our nations, the challenge is to seize the opportunities before us,” Hagel said in remarks prepared for delivery to the Observer Research Foundation, a New Delhi think tank. “Bureaucratic red tape - within either of our governments - must not bound the limits of our partnership and initiatives.”
port of the Samajwadi Party (SP), which is ruling the state, for ten years. “If any party does communal politics, it is Congress. They had alliance with Muslim League. In Hyderabad they had tie up with MIM. Even now, in both the houses of Parliament... by discussing communal situation, their motive is to increase communal tension,” Javadekar said while condemning Gandhi’s statement.The comments come after the Congress vice president told the Indian Express on Saturday that the ongoing communal conflicts in Uttar Pradesh
have been “artificially and deliberately engineered”. “Whatever is happening in Uttar Pradesh... this SP government which is there is because of them (Congress). It was the Congress which took their support for the last ten years,” Javadekar said.The BJP leader said that Rahul Gandhi’s statement should not be given much importance as Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already said that his vision is to take everybody together. “Rahul’s statement should not be given so much importance. Narendra Modi has already said one has to decide whether one would fight against poverty or Hindus and Muslims will fight against each other. The vision is to take everybody together.“But Congress’ thinking is totally communal and I condemn his statement because their communal thinking comes out of that,” Javadekar added.Gandhi had reportedly said, “Communal conflict is being artificially and deliberately engineered in our country, especially in Uttar Pradesh.
Rajnath ‘captain’, Amit Shah ‘man of the match’ of Lok Sabha polls: Narendra Modi
NEW DELHI: Speaking at the BJP national council meet in Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that Amit Shah was the man of the match of the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Narendra Modi also said that Rajnath Singh was the captain of the team that won the 2014 Lok Sabha polls for the BJP. The PM said that he knew Amit Shah very well and was confident that BJP will succeed under its new president. Talking about Lok Sabha elections, Modi said that poll pundits had given us no chance. But people had performed their duty, now it is our turn, he added. “We will adequately fulfill the aspirations of people,” the PM said. In apparent attack on Congress, the PM said, “those who have not done anything for 60 years are asking for our account of 60 days.” Nation not yet Congress-free,
BJP ideology should be all over: Amit Shah Wanting the country to be “Congress-free”, new BJP chief Amit Shah on Saturday said Congress cul-
ture needs to be replaced by that of his party whose foremost priority is to win the upcoming assembly elections in four states with big majority. “For long Congress ‘vichar’ (thought) has been pre-dominant in
Fresh rains in Odisha add to flood woes Plight of the flood-hit in Odisha was compounded by fresh rains triggered by low pressure though water level receded slowly after claiming 37 lives and affecting over 24.28 lakh people, relief department officials said. “Water level is receding in many rivers but the woes of people who have taken shelter on high river embankments and other places have been multiplied due to fresh rainfall,” Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) P.K. Mohapatra said. While water level in rivers including Mahanadi and Baitarani had come down, different parts of the State, mainly northern region, have been lashed by rainfall of low intensity since Friday night, he said.Rain and thundershower would occur at most places over north Odisha and a few places over southern parts of the state during next 24 hours under the influence of low pressure,
Sinjar.
Director of local Meteorological centre, Sarat Sahu said. Heavy to very heavy rainfall would occur at one or two places over north Odisha during next 24 hours, the MeT office said adding gusty surface wind speed from 35
kmph to 55 kmph may prevail along and off Odisha Coast. Fishermen are advised to be cautious while venturing into the sea. Over 1.35 lakh people have taken shelter on river embankments and other high places for whom 209 free kitchens are operating to provide
cooked food, the SRC said, adding the number of such people was high in Cuttack and Puri districts. While 38 breaches have occurred at different places, around 3.6 lakh people in 532 villages were still marooned due to submergence of vast areas, he said.Water level in Hirakud reservoir on Mahanadi River stood at 626.10 feet and 24 sluice gates were now kept open for discharge of excess water, Mr. Mohapatra said.Flow of water in river Mahanadi through Mundali barrage has come down to about 10.34 lakh cusec from around 11.4 lakh cusec yesterday, SRC office said, adding inflow at Hirakud reservoir stood at about 3.4 lakh cusec while outflow of water was around 4.3 lakh cusec.Despite recession of water, flood situation still remained grim in the delta zone of Mahanadi river system amid fresh rains and inundation of many areas as the state government stepped up relief operation, it said, adding the situation in districts.
the country’s politics. Now it is time to ensure that our ‘vichar’ (thought) has an imprint on nation’s politics,” said Shah, the architect of saffron victory in crucial Uttar Pradesh with 73 out of 80 seats in the Lok Sabha polls. Addressing the party’s day-long national council meeting here that ratified his appointment as BJP president, Shah also targeted leaders of other parties, including Nitish Kumar of JD(U) and Akhilesh Yadav of Samajwadi Party and said it was necessary that the party should capture power in these two states as well. In a pep talk to his party cadres, he said BJP should strive to form governments even in states like Andhra Pradesh for which the party cadres should expand the BJP’s reach throughout the country. “The country is yet to be rid of Congress. The cadres should keep this in mind.
Telangana refuses to hand over law and order of Hyderabad to guv A confrontation between the Telangana and the central governments seems inevitable with the former rejecting a direction to vest control of Hyderabad’s law and order to the state’s governor. Terming the central government as “fascist”, Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhara Rao has directed Chief Secretary Rajiv Sharma to send a letter to New Delhi rejecting it’s direction. He also decided to convene a meeting of chief ministers of states ruled by non-NDA parties to protest what he calls infringement of constitutional rights of the state. The chief minister gave direction to the chief secretary Friday night soon after the chief secretary received a letter from the union home ministry asking the state government to hand over law and order of Hyderabad to the governor. According to official sources, KCR, who was camping in his farm house near the city, made it clear that the state can’t implement the central governemnt’s decision and termed it as a blatant interference in the state’s affairs. KCR, who led the movement for separate Telangana state and became its first chief minister in June, alleged that the Centre is trying to usurp the powers of a democratically elected government.
SRINAGAR | SUNDAY
10. 08 .2014
HOROSCOPE Aries
March 21-April 19
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.
Taurus April 20-May 20
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.
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 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.
OPINION EDITORIAL/// OPINION OPINION EDITORIAL Quote of the day In distress, farming Public Librariescommunity deserves Store Home of Govt. attention knowledge he uncertainty creatDon’t trust the person who has broken faith once.
T P
William Shakespeare
ed by the weather for
ublic libraries are store Rabi has made home of crops knowledge as the farming commubooks are the best source very panicky of nity enlightment and are as the chances good crop are genuineoffriends of hudiminishing with man beings. Before theevery adventpassof ing day. services There seems be no television in thetocounespite the listen fact wave that letpeople up in would the rain and cold try either to conditions have awhich large scalealready drug radio not only for entertainment destroyed several seeds particbut for seeking information andto scandal came ularly paddy seeds. The knowledge onfore various issues. The last year, cold but motto of All India Radio was enterweather hail-storm and fast the sale of spurious tainment andcontinuing information. People winds is have also damaged sevdrugs unabatwould tune to Radio with great eneral and fruits, thus making the edly there isnews no check on thusiasm and radio and speprospect of good yield in hortithisaudience menace. Not onlywould this , cial programmes culture sector very bleak. Kashthe expired drugs are availcharm listeners like anything. The mir valley is mostly dependent able in medical shops and are community radio listening at one on fruits and agricultural protime wasas very listenbeing sold topopular gullible patients duce there are and hardly any ers clubs would in turn advised without any hesitation. There other viable resources to boost programme planner with their is nofragile deterrent which can stop the economy. The state latest ideas about improvement in the selfish and criminal medias programmes. a whole does not than havera-big the Other cal shopkeepers who have no industries, mineral wealth and dio people in general would read otherfor means onknowledge whichlife it can respect for human from books gaining anddevelop and go ahead on theOne path selling such drugs. Some enfictions for entertainment. of progress. Hence, it is quite quiries are made when this would come across many vendors but natural that the total depenissue is raised media but on the roads whereby reader would dence of over 70% population get books and by seride- is nothing is magazines done in a increasingly around positing nominalrevolving money can and reous manner which put agriculture, horticulture and turn the books or magazines after a permanent stop to selling tourism. The tourism sector reading them. There was a chain such kind of drugs to the paofispublic libraries the country suffering joltin after jolt betients. Some time back a cenwhere books were available. causerare of Hartal, strikes, curfew tral of found Readers wouldvolatile sit experts in theconditions. libraries and team other more than two spuriand go through these rare referThough a lot of dozen people are asous drugs in use in the valley ence books. Public libraries were sociated with this industry but very useful for the aspirants preand had recommended a ban uncertainty always looms large paring competitive examinato imposed on their onbe itsfor sustainability. Thussale the tions. With the advent of televiand ordered withdraw agriculture and tohorticulture sion and computers the visitpivotto sectors have assumed these medicines immediately. public libraries has become out of al role to some sustain the economHowever, fashion, but in our cosmetic state peoplesteps do ic health of the valley and the were taken in this direction need public libraries though the state. If the present weather conbut the sale of spurious and infrastructural facilities available ditions continue, the total fruit, expired drugs is still going on before 1990 are now in shambles. vegetable and paddy production The two decades of uncertainwithout any restrictions. The will suffer heavily. Thesuffer state aadtyabsence made these libraries of a fool proof mechministration and the concerned lot, as books and buildings wereof anism and random checks departments ofstaff agriculture and torched and the abandoned the samples have is nota in practice. horticulture lot of responthese libraries. The government Even the doctors arewith not othhesisibility on their shoulders. They machinery pre-occupied tant to prescribe those drugs to playissues an important advierhave prioritized did not pay which otherwise have been sory role and see that the farmany attention to these libraries. At banned inlibraries rest ofare the counpresent these in awful ers and orchardists take approcondition, with no books around,the try. The menace spurious priate measures to of minimise no news paper or magazine damage by the badavailweathdrugs iscaused very rampant in vilable and the staff missing. The er. These departments should lages where the populace still students appearing for utilise the services of competielectronic has less knowledge about tive examinations do not get the and print media for this purpose spurious and expired drugs. required and latest books, newslaunch a vigorous campaign Itand is necessary that an awarepapers, magazines or information. in the whole valley. They should ness campaignCentre, be launched The Information run by prescribe the required pestiin the valley andin the mediGovernment of India the heart cides and chemicals which are ofcal the shops Srinagar city too such is closed for selling drugs needed immediately to keep the the last so many years. This cenbe sealedtoand their license damages the minimum level. tre once upon a time to be ato be cancelled. In used addition In for addition to this Govt to should hub readers and students get this, the doctors responsible immediately swing into action latest information. Now there is a for banned drugs andprescribing provide instant relief toisthe need that this important facility be brought to books and pefarming community who have revived and revamped in confornalized for negligence. suffered lot their of damages to their mity with a modern requirements. crops. Theinformation Govt. supposed In the absence of is any effective The library ought to to be by the side of the fruit growers be computerized so menace that people mechanism, this will and farmers in this hour of can get information on line as well. continue to take the lives disof The reading habits should again tress. Together the farming cominnocent and gullible patients. be promoted by instituting public munity and the governmental Govt. should adopt a comprelibraries. public libraries agenciesThese can overcome the preshensive drug policy and put should be consolidated and updatent uncertain scenario which inwith place a viable monitoring ed the latest facilities. A new has caused overall disappointsystem to keep an eye the concept infused soon that ment should in the be people associated overall of drugs and medtreasure ofsale knowledge is saved. with farming.
Valley—a big market for spurious and expired drugs
D
Daily Daily Daily
ZabarwanTimes Times Zabarwan Times Zabarwan
Srinagar, Thursday 15 May 2014 Srinagar, Sunday 10 August Srinagar, Tuesday 11 February 2014
APEDA: Helping Farmers to Look Outwards
R
ight from the moment when a produce is harvested from the farm to the time it takes to be on board for moving to its desired destination, the life of the agricultural produce gets battered at various stages. It is estimated that almost 30-40 per cent of the produce of fruits and vegetables is wasted due to lack of adequate infrastructure for post-harvest handling, transportation and storage. The inadequacy of post-harvest infrastructure facilities and wastage has persistently been underlined as a major bottleneck in boosting export of perishable products from India. Apart from it, the country’s agriculture export policy sometimes gets affected by short term interventions or restraints like ban on export of farm produce in the times of sudden price rise or supply constrictions. Whenever such restraints are imposed, processed and/ or value added products have to bear the brunt. Processed food sector and value addition in India forms but a minuscule portion of the overall agri economy and accounts for a small fraction of export of their commodities. Requirement of continuity in policy regime for encouraging investment in processed food sector is therefore an imperative. In the light of all these problems, the Government, in coordination with Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), has been providing necessary technical inputs and financial assistance. APEDA has taken several initiatives for promoting export of perishable commodities. APEDA has set up common infrastructure facilities like Centres for Perishable Cargo (CPC) at various international airports like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Amritsar, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Goa, Nashik, Vapour Heat Treatment facilities for
export of mangoes to Japan and Australia, Irradiation facilities for export of mangoes to USA, integrated pack houses, pre-cooling facilities, high humidity cold stores, Asceptic Packaging Unit and collection centres among others. In addition, exporters, through Scheme of Infrastructure Development, are encouraged for purchase of reefer vans, setting up integrated pack houses, pre-cooling facilities, high humidity cold stores etc. so as to maintain cool chain which ultimately helps in maintaining the quality of the produce exported from India. Appropriate market intelligence in terms of reliable trade data on demand, supply, season, process etc. is another critical requirement of the exporters to diversify and explore new markets. APEDA has achieved market access for various products in hitherto inaccessible markets such as mango to USA, Japan, Australia and China; grapes and bitter gourd to China, basmati rice to Japan, Mexico and China; mango products to Mexico, livestock products to Algeria, Syria, Egypt, Morocco etc. Packaging is critical for delivery of product in good condition. APEDA has got developed packaging standards and specifications for various fruits, vegetables, cut flowers etc. Exporters using packaging of these standards and specifications are also given financial assistance to the tune of a maximum of Rs. 5 lakhs per annum. Food safety is a primary concern in international trade. There is an increasing need to provide greater assurance about the safety and quality of food to the end consumers. Paying heed to the concerns of food safety and traceability shown by importing countries, APEDA has introduced traceability system for export of grapes to the EU countries via GrapeNet, pomegranates to EU via AnarNet and or-
ganic products via TraceNet. APEDA has encouraged and provided financial assistance to exporters for implementation of food safety standards in various sectors such as meat, poultry and dairy manufacturing units, units manufacturing mango pulp, pickles, dehydrated products etc. APEDA has also introduced a stringent system for recognition of export testing laboratories (23 at present), which has helped in upgrading their testing capabilities in terms of human skills and testing infrastructure. Research & Development is an important activity with the objective of export enhancement programme. For the benefit of processors/exporters, APEDA gets R&D work conducted through expert institutions in accordance with trade requirement for development of value added products, improvement in processing technologies, development of new varieties etc. High airfreight cost has been a persistently inhibiting factor in enhancing export potential and erodes the production cost advantage in India. High storage and inland transportation costs further aggravate the situation impeding growth in export of agricultural and processed food exports. Through the scheme for Transport Assistance, aid to exporters of horticultural, floriculture, processed food and animal products is extended. To further facilitate the export of perishable agri produce, the Government through the Foreign Trade Policy 2009-14 made a provision for introduction of a Single Window System. Apart from these initiatives, APEDA has also taken several other export promotion measures for fruits and vegetables from time to time. A number of agri export zones for fruits and vegetables have been set up in different parts of the country. AEZs entail focused channelisation
of efforts and assistance in a converged fashion for the overall development of supply and value chain of the identified produce. APEDA also encourages exporters to participate with it in various international trade fairs which offers opportunity to the participants to get exposure and access to business channels overseas, thus augmenting export opportunities. APEDA has initiated a programme for integrated training of horticulture produce for some identified fruits like grapes, mangoes, litchis in selected regions. In the first step, APEDA has selected certain varieties of mangoes from the major producing belt i.e. Alphonso mangoes from Ratnagiri, Kesar mangoes from Aurangabad. APEDA has implemented the Integrated Training Programme in identified mango areas, response of which have been encouraging. APEDA has also made efforts to establish a semi-commercial facility in India to meet the commercial requirement. In this direction, APEDA received a 1.5 tonne capacity machine to treat 20 feet containers (8-10 tonnes in one-day treatment). This facility has been established by Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB) at Vashi, Mumbai. APEDA has also initiated experiments of Controlled Atmosphere containers for the sea transportation of mangoes to various countries. APEDA has also been providing financial assistance to exporters for packaging, infrastructure development like packhouses, pre-cooling facilities, reefer vans etc, brand publicity through advertisement, purchase of laboratory testing equipment and implementation of quality systems etc. In this way, efforts for upgradation of post-harvest handling, distribution and marketing facilities have been able to cut down on wastages and for preserving the quality of fresh produce.
Micronutrient Mixture for Mega Harvest
I
ndia - the land of spices is the biggest producer, consumer and exporter of spices. The country grows over 50 different varieties of spice and produces around 2.7 million tones of spices. Around 0.25 million tons of our total produce (8-10%) is exported and the Indian share of the world trade in spices is 45-50% by volume and 25% in value. In other words, spices sector account for 6% of the agricultural GDP of the country. No wonder, spices plays a pivotal role in Indian economy. The flavor and fragrance of spices depend on the soil on which they are grown. Continuous exploitation of this precious soil without replenishing the nutrients, especially micronutrients, results in low yield, poor quality of the produce besides making the crop susceptible to pests and diseases. Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) in Kozhikode, a premier research organization on spices under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi has developed a nutrient mixture which recharges the soil with essential elements and ensures high yield from spice crops. In India, spices are grown mainly in red and laterite soil of South India, Western Ghats and North Eastern states where soil is highly weathered and low in nutrient status. The productivity is found to be one of the lowest compared to other competing countries and the reason is mainly attributed to improper management. In spices, quality of the produce, amount of oil, oleoresin, curcumin etc are more important as the export basket is mainly concentrating on value added products of spices.
Soil under Pressure
“Adoption of high production technology and cultivation of high biomass producing high yielding varieties have put enormous pressure on soil nutrient reserve and this has led to great imbalance in nutrient pools in the soil,” says Dr. M Anandaraj, Director of Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), Kozhikode. “A large chunk of soil has been rendered deficient in micronutrients, which is one of the major reasons that our crops have stopped responding to high analysis NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium)
fertilizers. Low pH, Phosphorous toxicity, limited use of micronutrients, chemical fertilizers and application of inadequate quantities of organic manures have made the situation more complex,” says Dr. V Srinivasan, Senior Scientist, Soil Science, IISR. Studies showed that 40-55% of Indian soil is moderately deficient in Zn (Zinc), while 25-30% is deficient in B (Boron). Deficiency of other micronutrients occurs under 15% of soil. These deficiencies/limitations reduce yield significantly.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients are those essential elements like copper, manganese, zinc, iron, boron, molybdenum sulfur etc which are required by plants in very small amounts. Besides promoting plant metabolic activities and growth of the plants, they play a major role in improving quality, size, color, taste, earliness, input use efficiency of NPK fertilizers, water, disease resistance etc. A lesser-understood phenomenon is their role in determining quality and the post harvest life of harvested produce. As these nutrients are costly and needed in very small amounts normally a fertilizer dealer will not stock them like other bulk fertilizers and hence farmers find it very difficult to correct micronutrient deficiencies. “In order to find a solution for this serious problem, scientists at IISR have developed crop specific, soil pH based micronutrient mixtures for foliar application in black pepper, cardamom, ginger, and turmeric crops which guarantees 15 to 25% increase in yield and quality,” adds Dr. M Anandaraj. An innate advantage of these mixtures is that they can also be used in organic agriculture and therefore are gentle and environment friendly. While organic manures enhance soil microbial activity and therefore nutrient transformation or mobilization, these mixtures are guaranteed to enhance both yield and quality of the crop produce. “The technology is a low cost one and hence farmer friendly. For one acre crop, about 2 kg micronutrient mixtures costing approximately Rs 400 per spray are needed. For each crop two sprays at specific growth stages are recommended,” says Dr. S Hamza, Chief
Technical Officer, IISR.
Crop Specific
The scientists also have standardized its application for various crops. For black pepper foliar spray @ 5g per liter water should be given once during spike initiation with the onset of monsoon and another after two months. For cardamom foliar spray @ 5g per liter water should be given once during panicle initiation and another after three months. For ginger and turmeric foliar spray @ 5g per liter water once during 60 days after planting and another 90 days after planting is recommended. The mixtures are soil pH based and are tailor made for acid soil (pH <7.0) and for neutral to alkaline/ sodic soils (pH >7.0). While increased yield and growth is possible due these mixtures, it is important to note that these mixtures should not be mixed with any other chemicals to save labour and time. Though these mixtures are essentially for spice crops, these can be used for increased yield in fruit and vegetable crops as well.The mixtures were tested in six farmers’ fields in various parts of the country. Field trials in ginger were carried out in Kerala and Karnataka while turmeric was done in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The micro nutrient mixture for black pepper was tested in Kerala and Karnataka states and cardamom in Madikeri, Karnataka.
Entrepreneurship Opportunities
The products are in the process of patent protection and commercialization. Entrepreneurs who want to produce and market these mixtures on a commercial scale can approach the institute for getting non-exclusive licenses. The Institute Technology Management and Business Planning and Development Unit (ITM-BPD Units) at IISR also help the entrepreneurs to prepare business plans for establishing manufacturing units. BPD unit also provides consultancy services for commercial production. The mixtures are available at IISR Chelavoor campus as well as at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Peruvannamuzhi.
icines.
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer Disclaimer Disclaimer: The : Thecontents contentsand andcomments commentsappearing appearingininany anyarticle articlepublished publishedininthis thispaper paperare arepurely purelythe thepersonal personalopinion opinionofofthe thewriter writer