CMYK

CMYK

CMYK

SATUTDAY 16 August | 2014 | 19 Shawal, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 | VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 225 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)Pen For Justice Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&Khttp://www.zabarwantimes.com

CMYK

Srinagar, August 15: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Friday said that though he never fought 2008 Assembly Election on the issue of resolving K-issue, yet he categorically highlighted the importance of addressing this issue at all Central Forums, before the Prime Minister and in the Legislative Assembly.Omar Abdullah while addressing main Independence Day function at Bakshi Sta-dium here this morning said that 2008 As-sembly Elections were fought on address-ing local issues of development. “We told the people of the State that we will focus on upgradation and improvement of ba-sic amenities particularly in the sectors of Sadak, Pani, Bijli, Taleem and Sehat”, he said and added that he advocated vehe-mently resolution of K-issue at all import-ant forums.The Chief Minister said that he also ad-vocated revocation of AFSPA time and again as there has been 80 percent de-crease in the militancy related incidents during the last five and a half years. “I am being criticized as to why I repeat-edly stress on gradual revocation of AF-SPA when it is not being agreed to. You should know Moon was not conquered in one attempt and Everest not dominated in one go”, he said and maintained that he would continue to work in this direc-tion till those who are bringing hurdle in this case understand the importance of its

gradual revocation.Omar Abdullah said that some are press-ing the people in Kashmir to boycott Elec-tion and not to vote. “I ask them what has changed by your this philosophy for last 25 years. People in Jammu and in Lada-kh exercise their power of vote with full capacity. What people of Kashmir have achieved by not exercising the right of vote in great numbers”, he said and asked the people to vote in great numbers for peace, development and prosperity of the State.Omar Abdullah made reference to the improvement of peace and security sit-uation in the State during the last more than five and a half years and said that 80 percent reduction has been achieved in the militancy related incidents. He said all schools and hospitals have been vacat-ed from occupation of security forces. He said 1000 private buildings, 300 govern-ment buildings, 40 hotels and 30 industri-al units have also been cleared from the security forces occupation. He said reha-bilitation policy has been introduced for the youth who had crossed LOC and want-ed to return back to normal life. He said 350 youth have returned under this policy so far. He said 54 bunkers have also been removed from Srinagar city.The Chief Minister said that wrong im-pression is being circulated through me-dia that there is a large number of people

in prisons. He rejected this impression and said that not more than 100 persons are in prisons at present. “You can visit the prisons in the State alongwith camera person and ascertain the fact”, he assert-ed.The Chief Minister said that Passport Policy has been made people-friendly and

NOC for three lakh passports has been ac-corded during the last five years. He said 1850 youth have been benefited under the Amnesty Policy. He said warrants under PSA have been brought down 50 percent in last about six years from 2500 in 2008 to 1400 by now.

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Srinagar, Aug 15: I-Day functions were held across Kashmir on Friday, various dignitaries, including min-isters and top bureaucrats, unfurled the tricolor and took salute at various district headquarters. The main I-Day function was held at Madr-e-Meharban Stadium at Gan-derbal. Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmad was the chief guest and hoisted the flag be-sides taking salute on the parade. The contingents of JKP, JKAP, IRP, CRPF, FPF besides, the students of various educational institutions of the district took part in march-past. Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, senior civil and police officers, polit-ical leaders and senior citizens of the district were present on the occasion. Addressing the audience, the Minis-ter highlighted the development pro-grammes launched by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah lead Government since 2008. He said peace and develop-ment remained high on the agenda of the Government, adding that special attention was focused on improv-ing the basic needs of the people. He said education, health, R&B, PHE, Tourism sectors remained core areas where Government achieved a lot. The main I-day function was held at Govt Degree College for boys Islam-

abad. Minister for Haj and Auqaf and Public Enterprises, Peerzada Mu-hammad Syed hoisted the tri-color and took salute of the march past. Chief guest Peerzada Muhammad

Syed while addressing the public on this occasion highlighted achieve-ments of the present coalition gov-ernment. “The present coalition gov-ernment is working hard towards

making the state self-reliant in every sphere of life, whether it is economy, development, better facilities for the weaker sections of society, education, rural development or health,” he add-ed. The main I-day function in central Kashmir Budgam district was held at sports stadium where the Chief Guest, the Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs Abdul Rahim Rather unfurled the tricolour and took salute on the march past comprising contin-gents of CRPF, BR I, II and III, J&K Home Guard and students of various schools of Budgam district. . The District Development Commis-sioner Budgam Khursheed Ahmad, SSP Budgam Muhammad Irshad, a large number of people, senior citi-zens, political leaders, socio-religious workers and school children were present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the Fi-nance Minister cautioned people against the communal and divisive forces, who want to disintegrate the society and the country on the basis of religion, region, caste and creed. He called upon the people to contrib-ute in safeguarding the hard-won freedom by thwarting their nefarious designs. He also saluted Army and Forces for guarding

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68th I-Day celebrated across Kashmir

Ministers, Bureaucrats Unfurl Tricolor

>> Advocates resolution of Kashmir issue>> Says his party will continue fight for AFSPA revocation>> Asks people to vote en-mass in ensuing Assembly Elections

>> Omar reduced electricity duty by 12 %>> 5% reservation quota to Pahari’s,

Calls for building national character, announces series

of plansNew Delhi, Aug, 15: Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today called upon all citizens to contribute to the cause of building national character. Addressing the nation for the first time from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 68th In-dependence Day, he said, it is an occasion for introspection for all, as to how his or her acts would weigh on the scale of Na-tional Interest. Let all actions be in the National Interest, and be seen as a contribution towards nation building, the Prime Minister said.Greeting the people of India on Independence Day, Shri Nar-endra Modi stated that he was addressing them not as "Prad-han Mantri" but as "Pradhan Sewak" – the first servant.Prime Minister Narendra Modi

announced a series of initia-tives aimed at empowering the common man, and unleashing the potential of India`s youth.In a major new scheme to uni-versalize banking access and financial inclusion, the Prime Minister announced the Prad-hanmantri Jan-Dhan Yojana which will provide for a bank account, a debit card and an insurance amount of Rs. one lakh, to poor families.A nationwide "Skill India"

movement will be initiated to provide skills which ensure employability.The Prime Minister also an-nounced a vision of "Come and Make in India" inviting manufacturers from across the world to invest in India, and help boost India`s indus-trial growth. He called upon the youth of India to unleash their entrepreneurial spirit and work towards

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Prime Minister addresses Nation from Red Fort

Srinagar, August 15: Amid clashes, Kashmir region observed a complete shutdown on the occasion of Indepen-dence Day while authorities clamped restrictions in Old City of Srinagar to contain protests. The authorities also suspended mobile services for several hours in the valley as a ‘security mea-sure’. Witnesses told GNS that since early morning, hundreds of police and paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personal were deployed across the Old City areas falling under five police stations including MR Gunj, Khanyar, Nowhatta, Rainawari and Sa-fakadal.The government forces had laid concer-tina wires and placed armoured vehicles to restrict civilian movement, witness-es said. The forces had blocked main squares and bridges of the Old City in-cluding at Nawab Bazar, Rajouri Kadal, Bhori Kadal, Khanyar, Nawakadal and Kawdara, they said.The historic Old City wore a deserted look with forces personal deployed at every nook and corner, witnesses said.In uptown Srinagar, forces had sealed all the roads leading to the Bakshi Sta-dium where Chief Minister Omar Ab-dullah unfurled National flag and took salute at March past. However, the re-

strictions were eased after the function was over in the noon.All the shops, commercial establish-ments, schools, colleges, universities, petrol pumps were shut in the city while private and public transport was also were off the roads.The authorities had deployed CRPF and police personal in sensitive areas of civ-il Lines including Lal Chowk, Budshah Chowk, Dalgate, Maisuma, Jehangir Chowk and Batamaloo to main security and law and order, an official said.However, in the afternoon, the security restrictions were eased following which slight moment of people was witnessed.Meanwhile, in the afternoon, stone-throwing incidents were wit-nessed in Habba Kadal and Nowhsehra areas of the city, witnesses said.Apart from Srinagar, the other parts of the valley also witnessed a complete shutdown.Reports received said the shutdown was observed in north Kashmir’s Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora districts while youths in Main Town Baramulla and in Hajin town of Bandipora took to streets and clashed with government forces.Eyewitnesses told GNS groups of youth clashed with forces

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Srinagar, August 15: In an embarrass-ment to Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) , the state unit of the BJP on Friday hoisted the National flag in up side down manner at their headquarters here in summer capital, witnesses said.Meanwhile, the State spokesperson of BJP, , old GNS that the party has tak-en strong note of the incident and strict action would be taken after investiga-tions," he said.

In Kashmir, BJP hoists national

flag in upside down manner

Shut down on Independence Day, 5 injured in clashesMobile phone services snapped for few hours

Srinagar, Aug 15, CNS: Accus-ing administration of showing negligence in retrieving the body of a 14 year old student from the stream near Khan Colonay Bhagat area of Sri-nagar city, protestors Friday staged a protest outside Sadar Station police station while to quell the protest, police per-sonnel reportedly lobbed tear-smoke shells. Sources told CNS that an 8th class student of Muslim Edu-

cation Trust Bhagat Manzar Farooq resident of Tanghdar presently staying at Bemina had gone to beat the heat at a nearby stream along with his friends during the lunch time on Thursday. The stu-dent while taking bath had slipped to death while police and district administration had pressed special boats into service to retrieve the body of the student.

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Students death sparks protestBody retrieved from

stream after 20 hours long rescue operation

‘Attempts on to trace him’: DIG North Kashmir

Sopore, August 15, CNS: Mili-tant turned cop has gone miss-ing along with his service rifle

in North Kashmir’s Sopore town in Barmaulla district. Sources told CNS that police has launched a hunt to nab the SPO Muhammad Shafi Dar son of Muhammad Maqbool Dar resident of Nowpora Sopore who has gone missing from SOG camp Sopore

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Cop goes missing along with service rifle

Army detects and diffuses

anti-tank mineBaramulla, August 15, CNS: A major tragedy was averted when Army de-tected and defused an anti-tank mine in North Kashmir’s Baramula district. Officials told CNS that during routine patrolling, Army detect-ed an anti-tank mine near Chaklo area of the district that was ac-cordingly diffused by Bomb Disposal Squad. (CNS)

11 Srinagar, Saturday 16 August 2014 Zabarwan Times

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

I-Day....

PM....

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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

8

GOVERNMENT OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR

OFF ICE OF THE GENERAL MANAGER GOVERNMENT PRESS SRINAGAR

TENDER NOTICESealed tenders affixed with revenue stamps worth Rs=6/- are invited for & on

behalf of the Government of Jammu & Kashmir from the interesting parties for the repair of machines / equipments detailed in annexure of this notice .The tenders F.O.R Govt. Press Stores Srinagar, inclusive.of all charges (like providing, fitting & servicing, wherever required & taxes wherever applicable) should reach the office of the undersigned by or before 08.09.2014 upto 2 PM .The tenders are likely to be opened on 9.09.2014 at 2 P.M. by the UPC in presence of tenders or their representa-tives who may like to be present on the occasion. In case the last date of receipt of tenders happens to be a holiday due to unavoidable circumstances, the tenders shall be received & opened on the next working day and shall be deemed to have been ex-tended to that date. The tenders should attach an earnest money minimum of 2% of their quoted value of tender or Rs=10000/~ in the shape of CDR/FDR, duly pledged to the General Manager, Government Press, Srinagar. Before submitting the tenders, the . interesting parties are advised to inspect/ examine the repairing jobs on spot thoroughly for proper assessment.

The list of machines/equipment to be repaired including terms & conditions of this NIT can be had from the office of the undersigned till 06.09.2014 upto 2PM against cash payment of Rs=200/- (Non-refundable)

No:GPS/315-22/14Dated: 070.08.2014DIPK:5148 Sd/-General Manager

Government of Jammu & KashmirDirectorate of Tourism Kashmir TRC Srinagar

Fresh Tender NoticeSealed tender affixed with five rupees revenue stamps are invited from regis-

tered/reputed dealers for supply utensils/crockery items required for the depart-ment. The offers should be quoted strictly in light of terms and conditions as con-tained in the offer document. The offer documents could be had from the office of the undersigned against cash payment of Rs. 500/-w.e.f. 09.08.2014 to 18.08.2014 during the office working hours.

The offers superscripted as offers for supply of utensils/crockery items accompa-nied with CDR for Rs. 15000/- (Rupees fifteen thousand only) pleaded to the Accounts Officer Directorate of Tourism Kashmir should reach this office on 20.08.2014 up to 2.00PM. The tenders received would be opened on the day convenient to the purchase committee in presence of the bidders or their representatives who may wish to be present. In case the date of sale of documents or date of opening of bids happens to be an off day, the process shall be resorted to on the next working day. Cash in lieu of CDR will not be accepted and offers without CDR will be rejected out rightly.

DIPK:4978 Sd/-Accounts Officer Directorate of Tourism Kashmir

Government of Jammu & Kashmir

OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE ENGINEER ( CIVIL)Sher-i- Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences,

Soura Srinagar.Notice Inviting E- Tenders

NIT NO : SIMS/HEC/C/ET/ 15 of 2014-15. Dated: 08-08-2014For and on behalf of the Governor of J&K state E - tenders are invited from “C&D” Class Civil Contractors

registered with PWD/CPWD/MES

S.No. Name of work Amount CDR Amount Cost of tender document

Time of completion

01. Laying of new G.I Supply line from over head water storage Tank to Hostels.

Rs. 15.06 Lacs. Rs. 31,200 Rs. 1000/- 30 days

AA: Submitted Funds: Demanded.The detailed tender documents can be down loaded from Web site JKtenders.gov.in from 25 .08.2014 to 25

.09.2014 ( up to 2.P.M against tender document fee in the shape of Payment order / DD pledged to Director Finance SKIMS . Interested Contractors / firms may upload on - line E- tenders for the above work up to 2.PM of 25 .09. 2014 along with the scanned copies of following documents:-

• Tender document fee receipt in the shape of Payment order / DD pledged to Director Finance SKIMS.• Earnest money in the shape of CDR as indicated above from any Nationalized / Scheduled Bank pledged to

Director Finance SKIMS ,Soura.• Vat Registration for work contract from Commercial Taxes Department along with latest Tax Clearance

Certificate.• Valid " C&D " Class Contractor Registration Certificate issued by the competent authority i,e PWD/CPWD/

MES etc.( Hard copies of above documents ( original tender document fee receipt, CDR and attested copies of other docu-

ments should reach the office of the Chief Engineer SKIMS up to 2 PM of 27 -09-2014 for its scruitiny and reference)The tenderers in their own interest are advised to visit the site and to go through terms of NIT before quoting

rates for the items of work.The tenders shall be opened in the office of Chief Engineer SKIMS on 29-09-2014 at 11.30 AM or on any other

subsequent date convenient to the Chief Engineer/ Tender Opening Committee.

No:SIMS 139/Xen/C/ET-15/2014-545-53-649-DDated:08.08.2014

Sd/-Executive Engineer (Civil) Hospital Engineering Department

Skims Soura

Omar Abdullah said that in a historic step his gov-ernment empowered people to ask any question to the government on its all performance under the Right to Information Act. He said by implementing Public Services Guarantee Act a common man was empow-ered to ask time bound delivery of basic public ser-vice. He said these measures alongwith e-purchasing, e-tendering, third party monitoring, constitution of Vigilance Commission and Re-constitution of Ac-countability Commission have strengthened institu-tions and empowered people to curb corruption. He asked the people to utilize the powers provided them through various legislations.Omar Abdullah said that under a long term strategy he tried to provide a platform to the youth so that they can prove their mettle both within the State and the outside. He said initiative of SKEWPY is an import-ant step in this direction. He said 16000 youth have been benefitted by way of receiving seed money under SKEWPY while Rs. 50 crore has been yearly provid-ed to the unemployed youth as unemployment allow-ance.“On the employment front, my government provid-ed one lakh jobs to the youth in government depart-ments during the last five years, whereas over 50,000 jobs were provided in the private sector”, he said.Omar Abdullah mentioned the development of ag-riculture and horticulture sectors and said that his government paid highest attention to the welfare of farmers and growth of agro-based economy. He said while attention was given to increase productivity his personal focus was on quality production of agricul-ture produce and popularization of modern methods of farm techniques. He said adequate supply of fer-tilizers, seeds and timely advices on farm practices where made necessary ingredients of the agriculture policy under which the sector was also kept free from all taxes.Omar Abdullah said that Rs. 370-crore Saffron Mis-sion was launched in the State. He said four lakh farmers lakh were given Credit Cards. He said 12000 senile orchards have been rejuvenated.The Chief Minister said that due to various steps put in place by the government the production of rice, wheat pulses, other agriculture produce and fruit has shown remarkable increase.Omar Abdullah said that production of milk in the State has increased by 4 lakh tones during the last about six years. He said poor farmers have been pro-vided backyard poultry to give fillip to their economy.The Chief Minister said that power has remained under highest focus during the tenure of his govern-ment. He said as against generation of 750 MW hydro energy from 1947 to 2008 including 450 MW Baglihar HEP, his government in just about six years has start-ed projects of the capacity of 1500 MWs and laid foun-dation for generating 9000 MWs of hydro power. He said his government has also send proposals to Gov-ernment of India for generation of 5000 MWs of solar energy and 2000 MW of wind energy in the State. He said special attention has been made to upgrade LT/HT system. He said 18000 new transmission lines have been installed and the electricity loses have been brought down. He said transformer capacity has also been increased by 4600 MV.On road sector Omar Abdullah said that during the last five years 270 new bridges have been construct-ed besides construction of 10000 kilometers of new roads and macadamizing 15000 kilometers. He said 19000 kilometers roads have also been upgraded and under PMGSY 1150 schemes have been taken in hand for road construction in rural areas. He said of these 750 schemes have been completed so far. He said two flyovers one each at Srinagar and Jammu are under execution at present and Mughal Road has already been completed and opened for traffic.The Chief Minister mentioning education sector said that 5000 new primary schools have been opened and equal number have been upgraded during the last five years. He said 625 middle schools have been upgraded to high schools. He said 16000 new school buildings have been constructed and 170 modern laboratories provided to higher secondary schools.The Chief Minister said that two Central Universities, two new University campuses about two dozen degree colleges, 50 polytechnics and ITIs and hundreds of schools were established to enhance the opportunity and accessibility of local youth to pursue higher goals in education particularly in the fields of sciences and technology. He said the higher education budget has

been increased from Rs. 60 crores per year in 2008 to Rs. 380 crores in 2014.Omar Abdullah said that during the last five and a half years more than 200 health institutions of different categories have been opened and up-graded. He said two new maternity hospitals, one super speciality hospital and various district hos-pitals have been made fully or partially func-tional. He said 15 hospi-tal projects and 50 prima-ry health centres have also been completed in this period. Lal Ded Hos-pital has been upgraded. He said 12815 doctors and paramedics have been appointed to provide ad-equate staff to the hos-pitals. He also said that hundreds of ambulances have been provided to the hospitals.The Chief Minister said that 1000 new PHE schemes have been com-pleted besides digging 10000 water pumps in dif-ferent areas to augment drinking water supply programme. He said 200 treatment plants and 43 water testing units have also been completed besides providing safe drinking water to 5000 government schools. He said 10 large and medium irrigation projects have been completed and 10 are under execution. He said various drinking

water augmentation works are under execution in Jammu and Srinagar while an artificial lake is near-ing completion in Jammu.The Chief Minister said that with the improvement in peace situation the number of tourists visiting the State has increased year after year. He said during the period from 2003-2008 24 lakh visitors visited Kashmir as against 50 lakhs during the period from 2008-2014 so far which is likely to goes up to 55 lakhs by the end of the year. He said attention has been paid to upgrade tourist facilities at Jammu as also places of tourist attraction. He mentioned the projects of Gandola, Ar-tificial Lake and Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex under execution.The Chief Minister said that return of migrant Kash-miri Pundits to their native land has been his cher-ished desire and he his government worked with the Union Government to provide a befitting economic package to Kashmiri Pundits. He said his government has given new proposal to the Union Government for enhancing economic package for Kashmiri Pundits. He expressed the hope that the new government at the Centre would take early necessary action in this regard.The Chief Minister mentioned the government em-ployee friendly measures taken by his government during the last about the six years that his govern-ment sanctioned 6th pay commission and its arrears to the employees besides enhancing retirement age from 58 to 60 years and age limit for obtaining govern-ment jobs from 37 to 40 years. He also referred to the service benefits given to ReTs. He said the age limit for full pension benefit has been reduced to 28 years. He said daily wage rates have been increased while hardship allowance and ration money for police per-sonnel has also been enhanced.The Chief Minister said that his government without imposing new taxes achieved 300 percent increase in tax collection and 250 percent increase in revenue col-lection during the last about six years.The Chief Minister extended greetings to the people on the Independence Day and wished them well-being and prosperity. He also wished peace and develop-ment in the State and the Country. (GNS)

manufacturing in India, the various items that add to our import bill. Let "Made in India" become a syn-onym of excellence, he added.Emphasizing that digital infrastructure is a priori-ty to empower the citizens, Shri Narendra Modi an-nounced his Government`s resolve to work towards Digital India, which would provide information and services to the people in a timely and effective man-ner.Stressing on the need for cleanliness, the Prime Min-ister announced his Government`s resolve for "Swa-chh Bharat" – a vision which will be launched on October 2nd this year, to be accomplished by 2019, on the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. In a related initiative, the Prime Minister said the first step towards "Swachh Bharat" begins with immedi-ate effect, through a commitment to build toilets in all schools, including separate toilets for girls, within one year.The Prime Minister announced the launch of the Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana, under which each Member of Parliament would be invited to make one model village in his constituency, by 2016. He said a complete blueprint for this scheme would be an-nounced on October 11th, the birth anniversary of Shri Jayaprakash Narayan.Shri Narendra Modi announced that a new in-stitution would be created to replace the Plan-ning Commission. This new institution would respect the federal structure of the country, he asserted.Thanking all Members of Parliament, including the Opposition Parties for a productive session of Parliament, the Prime Minister said his Gov-ernment wished to move forward by consensus.Referring to reports of the positive change in work culture of the Union Government since he took over as Prime Minister, the Prime Minister said he was taken aback by such news reports – since it should be the norm for Government Ser-vants to work with due diligence. The Prime Minister said the fact that this should make news, shows how low our collective standards of duty and responsibil-ity have fallen. The Prime Minister called upon soci-ety to give up the selfish attitude of "Mera Kya, Mujhe Kya."The Prime Minister also said he was appalled by the discord and disunity among various Government departments that he saw after assuming office.

on Cement Bridge in Baramulla town.In Hajin, at least four youths and a policeman were in-jured during violent clashes between youths and forc-es. “Forces lobbed dozens of teargas shells to disperse the youths but they offered stiff resistance and contin-ued stone-pelting,” an eyewitness, said. .The youths were hit by pellets while the policeman was injured after being hit by a stone.Complete shutdown was also observed in four dis-tricts of south Kashmir including Kulgam, Anantnag, Pulwama and Shopian amid heightened security.

The body was retrieved at 10 in the morning on Friday while the relatives and locals accused police of showing negligence during their rescue operation. The protestors according to CNS amid anti-adminis-tration and carried the body of the student and laid it in the middle of the road outside Sadar Police Sta-tion. The protestors were demanding action not only against the rescue team but also about the school ad-ministration. Police officials tried to pacify them but they continued to protest as a result tear-smoke shells were used to disperse them. The protestors did not permit police to conduct post mortem. A police official told CNS that police used all ways and means to retrieve the body of the student in time and yet the people showered their anger on them. (CNS)

along with his service rifle. Quoting his family members, police said that Dar after reaching his house along with the service rifle informed his wife that he has again decided to join militant group. “Dar was presently posted in SOG camp Sopore. He was an active Hizb militant and after his surrender before government forces in 2011, he was engaged as SPO and since then he was working for the depart-ment,” a police official told CNS on condition of an-onymity. DIG, North Kashmir confirmed the development and told CNS that investigation is going on and hunt has been launched to trace the ‘fugitive’ cop. (CNS)

borders of the country to stop intrusion of the enemy and also lauded the J&K Police in maintaining peace and law and order in the state despite heavy odds add-ing that J&K Police is one of the best police forces in the country. Maintaining that political freedom is incomplete without the economic Self-reliance, Rather said that India is making strides in socio-economic fields equally alongside the other progressive countries of the world and it is being seen with respect and regard by the forward countries at international level. Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Hassan Mir un-furled tri-colour at District Police Lines Kupwara and took salute on the march past presented by con-tingents of JKP, Home Guard, JKAP, IRP, CRPF, For-est Protection Force, NCC and school children. The school children and local artists also presented cul-tural programmes on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister apprised the people about the internal and external threats loom-ing large on the State. He stressed the need for work-ing together for the peace, prosperity and welfare of the state. He urged upon the educated youth for work-ing honestly and dedicatedly for their bright future. The artists for Information Department and school children performed colourful culture programme on the occasion. At Karnah MLA and senior National Confernce lead-ers Kafeel ur Rahman hoisted the tricolor and took salute on the march past at Tangdhar Karnah. Similarly ADC Hand-wara, hoisted the tricol-or and took salute on the march past at Hand-wara. The Minister for Con-sumer Affairs and Pub-lic Distribution and Transport, Choudhary

Mohammad Ramzan, unfurled the tri color flag at an function organized by the administration at Fruit Mandi Complex at Shopian in south Kashmir. The Minister inspected the parade and took salute on the march-past by the well decorated contingents of JK Police, CRPF, Forest Protection Force, NCC and school children wearing colourful uniforms. While, addressing a gathering, the Minister saluted the sacrifice of freedom fighters and said that great leaders laid down their lives fighting against British oppression and envisioned India as an independent secular and strong nation. “Real tributes to the lead-ers is to follow the path shown by them and to contrib-ute our bit towards nation building”, Ramzan added. Highlighting the importance of the day, the Minister said that it marks the beginning of our country’s ex-istence which, he said, has now emerged as a strong nation in the world. He said the towering leaders had fought for making the nation free from oppression and they ensured equality and liberty to all citizens of India including the coming generations. Deputy Commissioner /Chief Executive Officer LAH-DC Kargil hoisted the tricolor at Khree Sultan Cho Sports stadium at Bimathang Kargil and took salute at an parade comprising of 17 contingents of JK po-lice, NCC, Army Band and Government and Private schools. Addressing a gathering after unfurling the flag Dep-uty Commissioner greeted the people of Kargil and paid rich tributes to the martyrs who sacrificed their precious lives for the freedom of the country. He also urged people to value and uphold the importance of independence and appealed them to extend support and cooperation to the government in the realization of developmental activities in the district. The I-Day was celebrated in south Kashmir’s Pulwa-ma district with great enthusiasm, the main function of the celebration was held at District Police Lines Pulwama, where Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Ali Muhammad Sagar unfurled the tri-color and took salute at the march past. The con-tingents comprising of JKP, JKAP, CRPF, Fire and Emergency Services, NCC and school children pre-sented the march past. Among others, Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama, SSP, , Additional Deputy Commissioner, besides se-nior civil and police officers from district administra-tion, political leaders, prominent citizens and large numbers of people and school children were present on the occasion. Addressing on the occasion, the Minister said that like other parts of the Country, the 68th Independence Day is also being celebrated in every nook and corner of the State. He remembered the sacrifices of great leaders of the country who laid their lives for liber-ating the country from the clutches of Britishers’. He said “We should not forget those leaders who took part in the freedom struggle for freeing the country from colonism”, saying that we have also to pledge working for the unity, integrity and welfare of the country and State as well.” Terming peaceful atmosphere pre-requisite for the development and welfare for the people of the state, Sagar said that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is making all out efforts in this regards. He said the Chief Minister is keen for peaceful solution of Kash-mir. He called for peaceful atmosphere between India and Pakistan, hoping that conducive atmosphere will have positive effect on Kashmir. Governor, N N Vohra, hoisted the tricolor at a brief ceremony held at Raj Bhavan here today as part of the I-Day celebrations. The Governor took the salute presented by a contin-gent of the BSF. He interacted with the officers and staff members of the Governor’s Secretariat and the security personnel and greeted them on this joyous occasion. Sweets were distributed among all those present on the occasion. Minister for Medical Education, Youth Services and Sports Taj Mohi-ud-Din hoisted the tricolor at Bara-mulla in north Kashmir. The Minister inspected the parade and took salute at the march past. Contingents comprising JKP, JKAP, CRPF, Fire and Emergency Services, Home Guards and school children present-ed the march past. Speaking on the occasion, the Min-ister saluted the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for ensuring the freedom of the country, main-taining that it is our duty to uphold it.

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES NEWS SRINAGAR | WEDNESDAY 16. 07 .2014

GANDERBAL, JULY 15:- A Day-long Nazool-i-Quraan Conference was held at Ganderbal here today which was attended by a large number of reli-gious scholars, academi-cians, people from differ-ent walks of life. Students from different schools of the district were also pres-ent in the conference and participated in an Inter-School debate.

The Conference was or-ganized by Qamria Model Higher Secondary Educa-tional Institute, Saloora Ganderbal.

MLC, and Chairman Qa-mria Wakaf Trust, Sheikh Ghulam Rasool presided over the function and urged upon youth to fol-low the teachings of Quran so that they could achieve prosperous life in both

the worlds. He said Quran is the complete guideline and code of conduct for the humanity and will lead people towards success.

He said that the teach-ings of Islam have become more relevant in today’s context and people espe-cially the youth should follow them for living a disciplined and contend-ing life. He said that Quran preaches compassion, tol-erance, brotherhood and love which are much need-ed in the present times

Prominent religious scholars including Mou-lana Syed Arshad Hussain, Chairman Al-Noor Model School Dana Mazar, Sri-nagar threw light upon the prominence of Quran. They said that teachings of Quran guide us at the each and every step of life so

everyone must follow the teachings of Quran for the prosperity and success in the life and life hereafter.

Chairman Manag-ing committee QMHSEI, Sheikh Gowher, Principal QMHSEI, Dr Mohammad Yousuf, Members of Man-agement Committee be-sides Staff and students of the school were present in the conference.

Later prizes were dis-tributed among the win-ning contestants in the debate. The first posi-tion was awarded to Talib Bilal of J&K Sainik School Manasbal while as second and third positions were bagged respectively by Hafiz Junaid and Rumaya Ramzan of Qamria Model Higher Secondary Edu-cational Institute Saloora Ganderbal.

SRINAGAR, JULY 15: Minis-ter of State for Science and Tech-nology Mr. Feroz Ahmad Khan inspected the under construction building for “Energy Bhawan” at

Bemina today.The three storey building is

coming up at a cost of Rs 4. 49 crore, out of which an amount of Rs 2.12 crore has been incurred till ending June this year. The building being constructed by the Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JKEDA) would have the office of Director-ate of JKEDA, State Council for

Science and Technology, District Office JKEDA besides a confer-ence hall. Construction work on the building is in full swung while as 60% physical progress

has been completed so far.The Minister appreciated the

tireless efforts of the engineer-ing wing of JKEDA who left no stone unturned in completing the building within the time frame. The Minister was informed that the work on the building was started in June last year and is expected to be completed in De-cember, 2014.The Minister also

visited the site at Ompora behind the Indira Gandhi Airport where 157 kanals of land has been identi-fied for setting up of Information Technology Park (IT Park).

The Minister was informed that all the bottlenecks in setting up of the said park stand resolved and the fencing of the land shall start soon.Mr. Feroz said that the land will be allotted to the entre-preneurs who will be taking ini-tiatives and setting up ventures in IT sector.

He said that this will not only give a boost to the economy of the state but will also be a step for-ward in tackling unemployment among the youth of the State.The Chief Executive Officer JKEDA Peer Hafiz-ullah Shah, CEO JKE-GA Mr. Mohammad Akbar Wani, Assistant Director JKEDA Mr. Muzaffar Ahmad and a team of se-nior officers of Science and Tech-nology and Information Technol-ogy accompanied the Minister during the visit.

PULWAMA, JULY 15: According to Principal, Gov-ernment Degree College (Boys), Pulwama, a recruit-ment drive under UDAAN initiative by a Delhi based Gumbi Software Corporate shall be held on July 18, 2014 in the College.

All Graduates, Post Graduates, Technical Gradu-ates, Computer and Business Professionals who are interested to serve in corporate sector outside J&K are informed to report at Carrier Counselling Cell of the College at 10.30 a.m. on the said date.

KVK holds Animal Husbandry Camp at Bandipora

BANDIPORA, JULY 15: A facilitation camp with regard to animal husbandry was organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Bandipora here today. About 70 breeding cows from Mangnipora area were treated during the camp. On the spot investigations to iden-tify various diseases in animals were conducted and also medicines, dozings were given to these cows to set them free from diseases.

An experienced doctor Dr. Rauf Ahmad Patto made the farmers aware about various animal dis-eases and their treatment so that they can care them better.

Asks for ensur-ing punctual-ity, discipline

SRINAGAR, JULY 15: Minister for Social Wel-fare, ARI and Trainings, Ms. Sakina Itoo chaired a high level meeting of of-ficers to review the func-tioning of various wings of Social Welfare Depart-ment and also took stock of physical and financial achievements registered by the department here today.

Addressing the meet-ing, Ms. Sakina im-pressed upon the officers to work for the benefit and upliftment of poor and deserving section of society. She said that various welfare schemes have been launched in the state for benefit and welfare of the targeted population and directed

the concerned officers to ensure cent percent coverage of deserving people under various schemes.

Secretary Social Wel-fare Department, Mr. M. S Rather, Director Social Welfare Kashmir, Mr, Nisar Ahmad, Manag-ing Director SC, ST, OBC Development Corpora-tion, Mr. Y. P. Suman, Secretary Social Welfare Board, Mr. Aamir Ali, Secretary Pahari Advi-sory Board, Mr. Showkat Qazmi, Secretary Gujjar and Bakerwal Advisory Board, Mr. Khalil Posw-al, Secretary OBC Advi-sory Board, Mr. Tanveer Ahmed, Secretary WDC, besides various senior officers were also pres-ent in the meeting.

The Minister was in-formed that there are three Pahari Girls Hos-tel with intake capac-ity of 50 each and one

PG Hostel for Gujjar & Bakerwal students in Jammu and one Gujjar & Bakerwal Boys Hostel at Tehsil Chatroo in Kisht-war district which were made functional during the year 2013-14.

She was further in-formed that 168981 and 2996 students have been covered under pre and post-matric scholarship schemes by expending Rs. 13.66 and Rs. 2.32 cores were spent respec-tively by Pahari Advi-sory Board.

Secretary Social Wel-fare Board apprised that there are 696 crèche centres are running un-der RGNC Scheme and Centre Social Welfare Board has started online registration of NGOs for registering new propos-als under e-AWEDAN on the Central Social Wel-fare Board website www.cswb.nic.in.

Nazool-i-Quran Conference held at Ganderbal

Speakers say Quran is the complete guideline, code of conduct for humanity

Feroz inspects under construction Energy Bhawan at Bemina, IT Park Ompora

Recruitment drive at GDC Pulwama on July 18

Sakina reviews functioning of SW Deptt

SRINAGAR, JULY 15: The State Level Executive Commit-tee headed by Chief Secretary Mohammad Iqbal Khandey to-day reviewed and approved the implementation of National Food Security Mission (NFSM) 2014-15 in the State with an out-lay of Rs 25.06 crore compris-ing NFSM-Rice, NFSM-Wheat and NFSM-Coarse Cereals for Rs 5.21 crore, Rs 12.63 crore and Rs 7.22 crore respectively.

The plan envisages inter-ventions like demonstration on improved technologies and varieties, HYV Seed distribu-tion, need based plant and soil protection management, energy management and ef-ficient water application tools viz-Conoweeder, Rotavators, Pump sets, Paddy Thrasher, Multi-crop planter etc, crop-ping system based training to

farmers, construction of go-downs etc at approved rate of assistance.

The Mission focuses on low productivity and high potential districts, Agro-Cli-matic Zone wise planning, promotion and extension of improved technology and in-

tegration of various proposed interventions and targets with the district plan. The objective is to increase the production of rice, wheat and coarse cereals, restore soil fertility and pro-ductivity at individual farm level and enhance farm profits.

State Mission Director,

NFSM, Dr. S. S. Jamwal pre-sented the achievements reg-istered during the year 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14 under NFSM in the State. He said that production of food grains, oil seeds and vegetables in J&K stands at 16.25 lakh mts, 1.263 lakh mts and 13.67mts re-

spectively.He said as many as

107 Rotavator, 979 Irriga-tion Pump sets besides other farm equipments have been provided un-der NFSM-Rice and as many as 288 Rotavators, 1506 Knap Sack Spray Pump and 909 Irrigation Pumpsets have been provided under NFSM Wheat, besides other farm machinery.

The meeting was at-tended by Principal Sec-

retary PDD, Mr. A. K. Mehta, Commissioner Secretary Agri-culture Production, Mr. Asgar Samoon, Commissioner Sec-retary PHE, Dr. Pawan Kot-wal, Vice Chancellor SKUAST, Kashmir, Dr. Tej Pratap, Di-rector Agriculture Kashmir and other senior officers.

CS reviews NFSM implementation, approves Rs. 25.06 cr outlay

SRINAGR, JULY 15: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legisla-tive Assembly Mr. Mubrak Gul today visited various areas of Eidgah Constituency, including Guzarbal and Pomposh Colony Palpora villages and took stock of people’s problems, besides de-velopmental needs.

The Speaker was accompa-nied by a team of senior officers of PDD, PHE, Housing, Irriga-tion and Flood Control depart-ments.

The Speaker asked the Hous-ing authorities to prepare esti-mates of 20 lanes and drains in Pomposh Colony and submit the same to the concerned quarters for release of funds. He said it is a long pending demand of the people of the area and directed the concerned officers to take measures for execution of these works on war footing basis.

At Guzarbal village, the Speak-

er asked the PHE authorities to depute a team of officers to the area and prepare estimates for

separate drinking water connec-tions to the locality. Several depu-tations met the Speaker during

his visit and apprised him about their individual and collective problems. The main demands

raised by the locals included macadamization of Palpora road, repairs and renovation of link roads, lanes, drains and replacing of damaged electric poles. Many issues were solved by the Speaker on the spot by directing the concerned au-thorities to redress the problem immediately.

Addressing series of gath-erings enroute, including at Pomposh Colony, the Speaker said that the Government, un-der the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has taken several initiatives for the welfare and betterment of the people of the State.

He said that the government is committed to provide basic amenities to the people of all the three regions of the State.

Speaker takes stock of dev needs, peo-ple’s problems in Eidgah Constituency

JAMMU, JULY, 15: In view of frequent damages to transformers, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has ap-proved a special package of Rs. 5 crore for Jammu divi-sion to get these replaced or repaired on priority basis.

“This step has been taken to combat the problem and provide respite to consumers”, Sadhotra said while chairing an officers meeting held here on Tues-day to assess the status of power and water supply, irrigation facilities, position of fertilizers, sanitation, ration supply and related issues.

“Any problem in power supply badly affects the supply of water and irrigation facilities thus putting the people to grave hardships”, the Minister main-tained.Expressing concern over dissatisfaction among the people over frequent unscheduled power curtail-ments, the Minister asked the Chief Engineer, PDD Shahnaz Goni to keep round the clock monitoring on the status of power supply in the division. He asked her to devise an effective mechanism to further streamline the position of power supply. He also impressed upon to gear up the field functionaries and related wings to get proper feedback about the status of power scenario particularly in rural and peripheral areas of the re-gion so that prompt response is ensured accordingly.

Govt approves Rs 5 cr spe-cial package to improve power supply: Sadhotra

Consider making some plans for a vacation or short getaway, Libra. Looking forward to something fun can make even the tough-est 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.

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 re-lationships, 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.

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.

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 to-gether 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.

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.

Chances are that you’ll feel upbeat and positive today, Pisces. Consider sharing this energy with those around you who are feel-ing less than content. Your attitude can have a profound effect on friends, partners, spouses, and children. Even neighbors and ex-tended family can pick up on your spirit without you even real-izing it. Share your optimism with everyone you can today. If you see someone hurt or angry.

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.

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.

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.

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. Be-fore 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 some-thing unique. Try a new haircut. Wear colors that are unusual for you. If the need is there, consider a new career. Pursue expansion.

If your lifestyle is considerably different than that of others, re-sist 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.

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 compli-cated 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.

Daily Zabarwan TimesEDITORIAL/ OPINIONEDITORIAL/ OPINIONDaily Zabarwan TimesSrinagar, Saturday 16 August 2014

Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer

Follow transparent and fair procedure while regularizing

daily-wagers

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive

out hate: only love can do that.”

Quote of the day

Martin Luther King

The present coalition govt. has continu-ously been assuring to regularizing dai-ly-wagers, casuals,

ad-hoc employees and those on consolidated basis. However, so far no decision seems to be in place and announcements have remained confined to lip service only. There are vari-ous problems which are com-ing in way of implementation and the first amongst them is to set up a cut off year. There are daily-wagers and employees in other categories who have even completed even more than ten years and some have been en-gaged mostly during the past five years of coalition govt. The question arises as to what will be the cut off year and who will come under the ambit of the scheme. The govt. can not ig-nore those daily-wagers, casu-als and need based workers who have completed five years of service and have been engaged under proper mechanism. But at the same time, there are ap-prehensions that the ministers and the bureaucrats will en-list their own favourites and get them absorbed even ahead of those who really deserve it. There should be a proper sys-tem and complete monitoring to see that those daily-wagers and other category employees are regularized whose pay has been drawn since the time they were engaged. If this is followed, the favourites and back-door entries will be discouraged and the govt. will certainly be doing a noble job. Every body expects that those regularized will be deserving ones and their ser-vices and qualifications will be the only criteria for their regu-larization. The announcement in this connection is expected and the whole process has to be completed before assembly elections. If any mal-practice is noticed, there will be a lot of resentment and good work will turn into bad work. Not only this ant body can move court of law and get the whole process stalled. Hence, it expected and hoped that the state govt. will adopt transparent, unbiased and fair procedure to complete this tricky job.

Daily Zabarwan TimesEDITORIAL/ OPINIONEDITORIAL/ OPINIONDaily Zabarwan TimesSrinagar,Sunday 16 February 2014

Prevention of Drug Addiction

Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer

Kejriwal -Small man big designs

AThe resignation of Arvind Kejri-wal and his forty eight days stint consisting high drama in which he claimed to climb the sky with-out stairs has exposed the over ambitiousness of a middle rung former Govt. officer who wanted to erode even the constitution of India to fulfil his political expan-sionism. From the very begin-ning it looked crystal clear that Kejriwal without much political knowhow wanted to conquer the Mount Everest even without ven-turing out of his home. His day dreaming, his unfulfilled promis-es to the people of Delhi, his mis-calculations and aspirations with which he tried to befool the peo-ple suddenly vanished in air. His promise to supply the free water up to 900 litres to every home, electricity supply on half of the rate and Jan Lokpal bill were all flues. Above all his style of func-tioning like an anarchist and the way he approached to deal with different issues was nothing but immature senseless and direc-tionless. Infact he was trying to create a kind of anarchy and constitutional crisis which could destroy the very basis of the dem-ocratic set-up. His blunt lies, his allegations against everybody including the high dignitaries re-portedly without any basis clear-ly show that he has no priority and targets except to derive max-imum mileage out of minimum. As per constitution experts he thinks that he can overrule the constitution according to his will and whims and he thinks himself to be the only honest man in the county. His behaviour and the at-tempts he made to disrespect the constitution of India and also to erode the laid principles of law where simply unbearable as no society in the world can tolerate such attempts. As he could not fulfil his promises, he wanted a way eject, which he got through his Jan Lokpal Bill whose con-troversial introduction in Delhi Assembly was unconstitutional as any Bill in the central list can be introduced and passed but not before the permission of Ministry of Home Affairs is sort. As he was acting in an anchorist and dicta-torial style, he thought he is above law and can do anything he likes. The Indian democracy is the larg-est in the world hence deep root-ed. Arvind Kejriwal did not avail the opportunity he got to prove his metal. He thought by quitting he will gain the sympathies of the people of India but forgot that he has in the process exposed him-self before the masses and is in danger of losing whatever he had achieved so far. It is very easy to sit on ‘Dharnas’ and criticize oth-ers but it is not so easy to trans-late one’s whims unless one goes through the established system of norms and is honest in the ap-proach.

lcoholism and drug abuse is a pysco-social-medical problem re-quiring a holistic approach – from prevention and early detection to effective intervention, rehabilita-tion and social integration. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is the nodal Min-istry for drug demand reduction. It coordinates and monitors all aspects of drug abuse prevention which include assessment of the extent of the problem, preventive action, treatment and rehabilita-tion of addicts, dissemination of information and public education. The Ministry provides communi-ty-based services for the identifi-cation, treatment and rehabilita-tion of addicts through voluntary organizations. In order to recog-nize the efforts, and, encourage excellence in the Prevention of Al-coholism and Substance (Drugs) Abuse and rehabilitation of its victims, awards will be presented, every year, for the most effective or outstanding services as individ-uals as well as institutions in the prevention of abuse of:- (a) Alcohol;(b) Narcotic Drugs;(c) Psychotropic Substances;(d) Other Addictive Substances (Except tobacco and its products)e.g. cough syrups, correction fluid,

etc.The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has been imple-menting the Scheme of Preven-tion of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse since 1985-86. The Scheme, which was re-vised twice in 1994 and 1999, at present provides financial support to NGOs and employers mainly for creating Awareness and Pre-ventive Education, Drug Aware-ness and CounsellingCentres (CCs), Treatment- Cum- Rehabil-itation Centres (TC), Workplace Prevention Programme (WPP), De-addiction Camps (ACDC), NGO forum for Drug Abuse Pre-vention Innovative Interventions etc. Apart from this, the Ministry takes up awareness gen-eration programme every year dis-seminating information, education and communication (IEC) mate-rials, organizing programmes in schools and community, holding exhibitions and publishing news-letters and journals. At present there are about 41 CCs and 401 TCs are function-ing with the support of the minis-try in the country. Besides, a large number of NGO’s are involved in this endeavour, Ministry of social Justice and Em-

powerment notified in December last year a scheme of National Awards for Outstanding Services in the field of Prevention of Al-coholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse, in order to recognize the efforts and encourage excellence in the field of prevention of sub-stance abuse and rehabilitation of its victims. The Scheme is applicable to in-stitutions and individuals working in this field. Under the scheme, awards will be presented every year to the most effective or out-standing services rendered as in-dividuals as well as institutions in the prevention of abuse of alcohol; narcotic drugs; psychotropic sub-stances and other addictive sub-stances. The awards are presented ev-ery year, on the 26th June, which has been declared by the United Nations as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking and are given in ten different categories to institutions and individuals. I. Institutional Category (i) Best Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts (IRCA) for providing rehabilitation services to alcoholics and drug users (ii) Best Regional Resource and Training Centre (RRTC) provid-

ing exemplary contribution in the field of prevention of addiction. (iii) Best Panchayati Raj or Mu-nicipal Body working for preven-tion of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse. (iv) Best Educational Institution doing outstanding work in aware-ness generation and prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse. (v) Best Non-Profit Institution, other than Serial Number (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) above, with out-standing contribution in the field of Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drug) Abuse. (vi) Best Research or Innova-tion. (vii) Best Awareness Campaign. II. Individual Category(viii) Outstanding individual achievement by a professional. (ix) Outstanding individual achievement by a non- profes-sional. (x) Former Addict, who has done outstanding work in the field of awareness generation or de-addic-tion or rehabilitation.The institution of these National Awards is indeed a manifestation of Government’s commitment to address the issues and take effec-tive steps against alcohol and drug abuse.

Building not just Roads but Nation

ransport system is considered as the life line of any nation. Road Infrastructure, because of its easy accessibility, flexibility in oper-ation, door to door service and reliability occupies a dominant position in the transportation system. It is vital for unleashing economic growth and is a crit-ical component of all inclusive growth. In the last few decades, Road transport in India has regis-tered tremendous growth and has become the most preferred mode of transport. The share of road transport in carrying the passen-gers and goods is more than 80% and 60% of the total passenger and freight movement respec-tively. Road Network India has huge network of roads totalling about 46.90 lakh km. The road density in India at present is nearly 1.43 km per sq. km of area which compares favourably with many countries. Responsibility of development of this network rests with the Central Government, State Gov-ernments and local Government. National Highways (NH), having total length of 82,803 km, con-stitutes less than 2% of the total road network. However, these are the main arteries carrying more than 40% of the total road traffic. Development of NHs is the responsibility of the Central Government.Good and efficient transport infrastructure is an essential pre-requisite for the economic growth of a nation. It has been the endeavor of the Government to provide speedy, safe and effi-cient road transport network. It is recognized that modernisation of infrastructure is the key to at-tain higher GDP. India’s Trans-port sector as a whole contributes about 5.5% to the GDP, with road transport contributing the lion’s share. India has emerged as one of the fastest growing economy in the world. According to ex-perts, India could unleash its full potential, provided, it improves the infrastructure facilities, which are at present not sufficient to meet the growing demand of the economy. To address emerging demand by catching up with the economic and social growth of the country, a massive Road de-velopment programme has been

taken up in the country.NHDP The National Highways Devel-opment Project (NHDP) is the flagship programme, for devel-opment of less developed areas, dedicated regional programmes like the Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for the North-East (SARDP-NE) and the Special Programme for the Left Wing Extremism affected areas have also been taken up. Now, there are plans for building up Expressways in the Country. Three projects i.e. Eastern Pe-ripheral Expressway in National Capital Region, Delhi - Meerut Expressway and Mumbai – Va-dodra Expressway covering about 650 km are targeted during the current financial year. Plan-ning for Bengaluru – Chennai and Delhi – Jaipur Expressways are also in advance stages. All these Expressways will be fully access controlled roads on green field alignment. To meet with the mas-sive requirement of funds, inno-vative means of financing and financing strategies which inter alia include cess on fuel, private sector participation including for-eign investment, borrowing from the market as well as budgetary support have been adopted. A major step was to attract foreign as well as domestic investments through Public Private Partner-ship (PPP). Involving the private sector would lead to increasing efficiency with the help of using modern technology. The private sector has more flexible pro-curement and decision-making procedures and therefore, it can speed up implementation efforts. Allowing private sector to raise capital/funds has paved the way for the Government to use its scarce resources efficiently and effectively. Several new materi-als of road construction are also emerging that would need to be encouraged depending upon their cost effectiveness. For development of National Highways in the Country in the 12 five year plan targets to invest Rs 1,44,769 crores from bud-getary support, Rs 64,834 crores from IEBR and Rs 1,87,995 crores from private sector partic-ipation. Launched in 1998, the NHDP

program represents the largest road construction project ever undertaken to boost the develop-ment of the National Highways in the country. The program is aimed at the development of about 50,000 km of National Highways. Golden Quadrilateral which provides four-lane con-nectivity between four metros, is complete, while the North-South-East-West (NSEW) corridor is about to be completed. Four lan-ing and six laning is underway at many places and progressing at brisk pace, despite the hurdles in land acquisition, obtaining en-vironment and forest clearances, high cost debt etc,. So far work on more than 21,000 km have been completed and in about 12,350 km works are in progress. Other flagship regional programmes which includes SARDP-NE and roads in LWE affected areas cov-ers development of about 12,000 km of roads out of which work has already been completed in about 3800 kms.Mode of Projects The emphasis has been to take up progressively more and more infrastructure projects through private sector participa-tion on BOT (Toll) basis so that more public funds are available for social sectors such as Health, Education, etc. However, it would not be practically possible to take up development of the majority of the highway stretches on BOT (Toll) mode. This has re-flected in the recent trends of bid-ding when in majority of roads projects we could not get the fa-vourable response. Accordingly, recently, Ministry has decided to take up road projects as turnkey Engineering Procurement Con-struction (EPC) contracts basis which would help to reduce con-struction time and is expected to improve quality of work as well. Also, in this system the objective to garner private sector efficiency is retained and the private entre-preneurs are free to use new tech-nology to speed up their worksNew InitiativesE-Tolling The experience on present tolling system is associ-ated with congestion and delays at toll plazas. To overcome this, Government has decided adop-tion of Electronic Toll Collec-tion (ETC) system across Na-

tional Highways in India, which would enable toll to be collected electronically from vehicles at toll plazas while the vehicle is in motion. Pilot projects have already been taken up in this re-gard which will pave way for nation-wide interoperable ETC at all the toll plazas on National Highways by 2014.New Materials Besides financ-ing, such a mammoth develop-ment programme requires huge amount of natural resources. As such conservation of the material is area of concern for all. There is a need to save scarce physical resource like aggregates, sand, earth, cement, bitumen, etc. looking to huge programme of construction of highways in the country. On the other hand, the Nation is facing problem of the disposal & storage of industrial waste like fly-ash, copper slag, marble slurry, etc. Efforts are on in utilizing these waste materials in construction of roads through complete/partial replacement of conventional materials. Cashless Treatment of accident Victims (A Road Safety initiative) India has the dubious distinction of having maximum number of fatali-ties on roads. During the year 2011, there were around 5 lakh road acci-dents resulting in the deaths of over 1.42 lakh people. Each day, nearly 390 people die on our roads. In In-dia more than half of road accident victims are in the age group 20-65 years. The loss of the main bread earner and head of household due to death or disability can be cata-strophic, leading to lower living standards and poverty, in addition to the human cost of bereavement. This is an unacceptable price to pay for mobility. The Ministry has already taken up multi-pronged strategy in his regard. The latest milestone in this area is a Pilot Project for “implementation of cashless medical treatment to the accident victims” for the first 48 hours. Under this scheme accident victims will be provided free treat-ment during this period as a result immediate relief can be provided to the accident victim, which will go a long way in reducing fatalities on our road.Completion of programmes al-ready taken up is expected to go a long way in contributing towards building the Nation.

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Awareness Generation, Research and Rehabilitation