‘PDP set to change rules of the game’

Srinagar, Mar 29: The Peoples Democratic Par-ty (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti Saturday said the National Conference has converted itself into an available appendage for sharing power with who-soever rules Delhi and by doing so it has lost its regional representative character.According to a statement issued to KNS, while ad-dressing a number of

roadside rallies in Pulwa-ma segment of Anantnag parliamentary constitu-ency, Mehbooba said the ruling party has aban-doned governance and left people to their own devices of survival

See Mehobooba On Page 11..

Srinagar, Mar 29: Na-tional Conference Pres-ident Dr. Farooq Abdul-lah addressed a large workers’ meeting for Srinagar District at NC Headquarters at Nawa-e-Subh Complex in Srinagar. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Farooq Abdullah reiterated

See Farooq On Page 11..

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SUNDAY 30 March | 2014 | 28 Jamadi-Ul-Awal 1435 AH | PAGES 12 | VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 88 | 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

WEATHER

TEMPERATUREMAXIMUM MINIMUMSUNSET ON(SUNDAY)SUNRISE ON (MONDAY) 06:21 AM

06:51PM 6.0 0C 12.50C

FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

Light Rain/Snow would occur at a few places over the state.

Partly cloudy sky. Maximum &Minimum temperatures will be around 13°C & 03°C respectively.

Inside story

On Edit Page

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Kashmir at Delhi’s Centre stage

Devastation of Forests-an alarming situation

The devastation of forests in the world as a whole has resulted in global warming which, in turn has confronted the world with massive earth quakes, Tsunamis’, floods, wild fires and other natural calamities. The global warming has made the environment so imbalanced that the existence of mankind has become subservient to the nature’s fury. In Jammu & Kashmir the illegal felling of forest cover and its irrational ex-ploitation has brought the state at the brink of becoming a cold desert.

Offers to leave captaincy Body of Army soldier flown to Tamil Nadu My dad takes me as an artist also

PG 06 PG 11 PG 06

Stone thrower attacks police

with Iron weight

Srinagar, Mar 29 (KNS): Kashmir issue has attained a centre stage in New Delhi again with most of the political parties making Kashmir as their main subject during debates and public rallies for the ensuing Lok Sabah elections.In the recent past, Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) Prime Ministerial candi-date Narendra Modi had stated that Aam Admi Party (AAP) website re-fers Kashmir as the part of Pakistan.

Police arrests 4 drunkards, seizes liquor

President addresses Polio Free Conclave 2014

New Delhi, March 30: The President of India, Pranab Mukherjee addressed the Polio Free Conclave 2014 organised by the Rotary International, here today. He also presented mementos of appre-ciation and recognition to the former Health Minister Dr. A. Ramadoss and Ghulam Nabi Azad, Union Health Min-ister for Health and Family Welfare. Speaking at the occasion, the Presi-dent applauded the efforts of various agencies including the government in ridding the country of the disease. The President said that this was a mo-mentous and landmark achievement. Health has been the priority of the Gov-ernment of India for quite some time, he said. Unprecedented programme to eradicate the polio virus from the country was taken up by the central and state governments supported by sever-al national and international agencies such as Rotary International, UNICEF, WHO, CDC and Melinda and Gates Foundation, he added. The President said that the agencies helped with mate-rial resources and best practices to wipe out this crippling disease. Initiative was taken up at several levels to spread

awareness, provide prompt medical attention and administer the polio vac-cine. The unique challenge in India, the President noted, was the sheer number of people combined with the difficult terrain in many states. He applauded the unparalleled dedication of all con-

cerned and the relentless efforts put in by the workers, doctors, activists and various stakeholders including parents of children in achieving this day. The President stated that India must assist other countries such

See President On Page 11..

Azad applauds collective efforts of all stakeholders

Asks people to vote on performance basis

Assam, March 29: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh addressed election rallies in Khumtai in As-sam and also gave an ac-count of the achievements of UPA govt. Prime Min-ister Manmohan Singh today accused the BJP of doing divisive politics and said such a party could not bring development. "I don't think that the party which indulges in politics that divides the country can bring development to the country," Singh told an election meeting in As-sam in Sibsagar district. "India is a country with different cultures, re-ligions and languages where the BJP is indulg-ing in divisive politics," Singh said. "Their politics is based on one person. They don't have any specific policies for the development of the country," Singh said at the meeting in support of sitting MP and former cabinet colleague Bijoy Krishna Handique for the prestigious Jorhat Lok

Sabha constituency.Speaking on the achieve-ments of the UPA govern-ment, the Prime Minister said, "Our government has been working for the welfare of the country and its people for the last ten years". "UPA government was

formed ten years ago and since then we have been working with utmost commitment and dedica-tions for the country and the welfare of its people." "I know that with your support we can continue with our economic re-forms and social justice measures. Because of your support

See PM On Page 11..

PM addresses election rallies

Pattan, March 29: Army Saturday claimed that a suspected militant attacked its patrolling party near New Colony Palhalan area of North Kashmir’s Pattan town. “Our patrolling part personnel from 29 RR came under attack when a suspected militant fired upon them with AK-47 riffle. We exercised maximum restraint and did not retaliate,”

See Army On Page 11..

Hizb takes responsibilitySrinagar, Mar 29: Suspected mili-tants Saturday carried out an attack on Police deployed in South Kashmir’s Pulwama area injuring one police personal.Reports reaching KNS said that a constable was fired at from point blank range by some unidentified men at Kakpora in Pulwama district. The constable was identified as Javiad Iqbal of 18 Bn IRP. The police later cordoned the entire area and the search operation has been launched to nab the militants.The area was gripped with intense fear after the incident with the trans-port off the roads and shops and other business establishments were closed. The inspector General of Police (IGP) A.G. Mir said that someone with the pistol fired at one of the constables deployed at Kakpora in Pulwama. The constable was injured in the leg. “He is stable and admitted in the hospi-tal.”Meanwhile, the militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen in a telephonic statement to KNS claimed responsi-bility of the Pulwama attack. (KNS)

Militants hit constable in Kakpora-Pulwama

Army patrolling party attacked in North Kashmir

Police registered open FIR

Srinagar, Mar 29: A day after a deadly gunfight was witnessed in Jammu region’s Kathua area wherein six persons including three militants were killed; police on Saturday detected an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Bemina area.According to the reports received by Kashmir News service (KNS), an IED

See IED On Page 11..

IED found in Bemina

NC has lost its regional character: Mehbooba

Will Defend Article 370 till

my last breath: Dr Farooq

Chatroo (Kishtwar), Mar 29: Congress campaigning committee on Saturday con-cluded the campaigning on three constituencies including Bhaderwah, Kishtwar and Inderwal. They addressed 30 rallies and more than 70 meetings.According to a statement issued to KNS, the members including Congress MLA from Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori, MLA Bhaderwal Mohammed Sharief Niaz, MLC Naresh Gupta, Advocate Aslam Goni and Congress Leader from Doda Sheikh Mujeeb today addressed 3 mammoth

See No On Page 11..

No central government has power to revoke article 370: Congress

‘BJP seeking votes through false propaganda’

Srinagar, Mar 29: Main-taining that the Nation-al Conference has always projected the cause of peo-ple of state and rendered innumerable sacrifices for the same, the Minister for Rural Development, Pan-chayat and senior Nation-al Conference Leader Ali Mohammad Sagar today said that the leaders of PDP have always hatched con-spiracies against the inter-ests of the people for pro-moting their political and personal agendas.According to a statement is-sued to KNS, Sagar was ad-dressing a huge gathering at Rainawari in the old city, Srinagar. It was attended by several leaders of Na-tional Conference and em-

inent persons of the area. Sagar said that the people are fully aware of the fact that Patron of the PDP has been responsible for ensur-ing enactment of several draconian laws which have inflicted miseries See Sagar On Page 11..

NC rendered sacrifices, leaders of PDP hatched

conspiracy: Sagar Govt orders probeSrinagar, March 29: A vil-lage headman associated with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party is being accused of siphoning money meant for the community welfare.A delegation from Thayan (B) of Kalaroos told GNS that the Sarpanch, Manzoor Ahmad Malik is ‘committing fraud and corruption’. They alleged that the Malik has grabbed amassed thousands of rupees which were meant for poor people.The delegation said that Malik has illegally recom-mended those persons for Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY) scheme – who offer bribe. “He doesn’t sanction cases in the favour of poor families who have no house and are

living under extreme pover-ty,” a resident, Muhammad Rafiq said.Despite several requests he hasn’t paid any attention towards us and ironically he threatens us, one of the dele-gation member Rafiq Ahmad said.Ahmad quoted the Sarpanch, saying: “Nobody can harm me…Go wherever you wish.”Another resident, Fareed Ahmad said: “I live in my uncle’s house. I also went to Sarpanch regarding the sanctioning of case. But, he demanded bribe from me. I categorically told him that I am not going to pay even a penny.”He said that after he declined to pay, Malik all of a sudden dropped his case from the list.

See Probe On Page 11..

Village headman accused of corruption

State has 69, 33,118 registered voters

Srinagar, Mar 29 (KNS): As the polls for the parliamenta-ry seats in valley is scheduled to be held from April 10, the total number of registered voters in the state who are el-igible to cast their votes is 69,

33,118.According to the details re-ceived by KNS, the polling in the state for the six parlia-mentary seats will be held in five days and the first date of polling will be April 10. On this date polling will be held in Jammu. April 17 will be the second date of the

See Polls On Page 11..

12 days left for JK to witness parliament pollsPolling ends on May 7, counting on May 16

Several houses damaged,Almond crop worst hitSrinagar, Mar 29: Due to the incessant rains and snowfall in valley from the past several days, the almond crop here have been affected at worst.“During the recent and present rainfall, the most affected lot is of the almond trees- we have the reports that the braches of sev-eral almond trees have been damaged in far-flung areas here,” Director Horticulture Sonum Nigam told KNS.

See Hovoc On Page 11..

Torrential rains create hovoc

2 constables injuredSrinagar, Mar 29: A stone thrower at North Kashmir’s Baramulla Saturday attacked two police per-sonnel due to which one has been critically injured.According to the reports received by KNS, a police party went to arrest a youth in old town Bara-mulla. “When the police party ap-proached to arrest him, the youth attacked them with the iron weight that injured two police consta-bles,” a police official told KNS.The reports informed that one constable has been seriously injured during the attack. He was referred SKIMS. (KNS)

Srinagar, March 29, CNS: Police apprehended 4 drunkards and also seized scores of beer cans from a person in old Srinagar city. Police sources told CNS that Safakadal Police during patrolling near Veer Chattabal found one person in suspicious condition. Upon his search, 30 cans of beer were recovered from him in a bag. “All the 30 cans of beer were seized and the person carrying it namely Showkat Ahmad Dar son of Muhammad Sadiq Dar of Chat-tabal Srinagar was arrested and a case vide FIR number 53/2014 under section 48 Excise Act was registered against him,” SP city North Tahir Saleem told CNS. He further said that in a sep-arate incident, Police MR Gunj apprehended

See Police On Page 11..

11 Srinagar, Sunday 30 March 2014 Zabarwan Times

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

President

Mehbooba

NO

Hovoc

Police

PM

Army

Farooq

Probe

Probe

Sagar

IED

Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik 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

as Pakistan, Nigeria and Afghanistan in their fight against this disease in improving their health systems and infrastructure. He stated that we must be vigi-lant. There is need for watchfulness and preparedness to see that there is no recurrence of this disease, the President said. The Union Health Minister addressing the gathering said that this was a momentous and historic achieve-ment. He thanked all the stakeholders and partners in this challenging yet deeply satisfying journey. He cred-ited this achievement to decision to introduce the new bivalent polio vaccine which was indigenously devel-oped for the first time, aggressive immunization and micro block level planning covering the most endemic areas which had an electrifying effect, strong political will at the highest levels that ensured pumping in of required financial resources and deployment of huge manpower in this gigantic task, constant monitoring and maintaining supply chains, involving over a mil-lion Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) across the country. He said that a 2.3 million strong team of frontline polio workers, volunteers and 150,000 supervisors worked day and night for the success of the polio rounds. Azad complimented the Rotarians who have been contrib-uting resources, time and effort to the cause. Present at the occasion were Lov Verma, Health Secre-tary, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Mr. Gary Huang, Rotary In-ternational President Elect, Mr. D. K. Lee, Chairman, Rotary Foundation, Sh Rajendra Saboo, Conclave Chairman, Sh P T Prabhakar, Rotary International Di-rector and Sh Kalyan Banerjee, Conclave co-chairman.

we have been able to work for development of the com-mon people and the country as a whole," he added.Giving an account of the progress made by the coun-try during UPA I and II governments, Singh said, "You saw the success of our UPA government during our first tenure and, therefore, again voted for us in 2009". "During this tenure also we tried our best to work for the country and its people. We have been successful in many aspects, but I feel still much more has to be done," Singh said. "Of course in the last three years there has been some economic crisis, but we are trying our best to overcome it," he said.Stating that the changes that came about in the last ten years were because of the efforts made by the Con-gress-led government, he said "The changes have led to India becoming a fast emerging economy. If this continues India within a short time will be a fast rising nation in the world". "Without economic development, eradication of poverty is not possible. If there is no development youth will not get employ-ment opportunities and common people will be de-prived of progress," he saidSingh spoke about two lakh km village roads being built and construction of infrastructure such as railway network expansion, airport development, metro rail-way, besides stress being given on welfare of education and health care facilities. "We have been able to have good relations with many countries and India's position from the diplomatic point of view is commendable," Singh said. "I am lucky that you all have selected me as the Prime Minister. Before coming into politics I was for 40 years in many posts where I served with commitment. Where ever I am I work for the people of India," he said. Speaking about changes in Assam, which he repre-sented in the Rajya Sabha for the last 23 years, and the North East region, the Prime Minister said there was development of infrastructure during the last ten years."The Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technolo-gy, Jorhat Medical College Hospital, a super speciality hospital, National Institute of Design in Jorhat constit-uency have come up during the tenure of the Congress government," Singh said. "Prior to Independence the tea community was with the Congress. Now also we are doing a lot for them and assure to continue working for their welfare and prog-ress," he promised. Stating that India was declared a polio-free country by the WHO, the Prime Minister said the UPA govern-ment was giving special attention to children's health care and their education - from the primary to the higher education level.

an Army official told CNS on condition of anonymity. Reports said that soon after the incident police, Army and Special Operation Group personnel cor-doned off the area and with the help of sniffer dogs recovered some arms and ammunition from a band saw mill. A police official while confirming the incident told CNS that the assiliant before fleeing from the spot had left one AK-47 riffle, one magazine and 9 rounds near a band saw mill which were recovered by the joint searching party. “We have registered a case vide FIR number 46/2014 under section 7/27 arms act in this regard and investigation is going on,” the police official said. (CNS)

was detected by army’s Road Operation Party (ROP) in the morning near power receiving station Bemi-na. The IED planted inside the pressure cooker was found concealed beneath some shattering material outside a shop, a police official told KNS.The police was informed immediately that cordoned off the area. The reports informed that the roads linked to the spot were sealed by the security forces. The bomb disposal squad later defused the planted IED.Police sources told KNS that the IED was detected at 7.45 in the morning when army during its routine

road patrol found some objectionable thing near the road side. Reports inform further that the planted IED was 750 grams in weight and that no damage was caused during its controlled explosion.Superintendent of Police (SP) South city told KNS that the IED was planted at an important spot where-in the expected target was the army convoy- as they generally pass through the bye-pass road that is near to the spot where the IED was planted. He stated fur-ther that the initial findings revealed that the militant outfit Hizbul Mujahieen had planed the attack. “The investigations into the matter is at full pace. Police is keenly examining the various aspects related to the incident.” (KNS)

in the belief that it can stick to power through its ‘spe-cial contacts’ at the Centre.The PDP president said her party is fighting the pres-ent Lok Sabha election to reverse the trend of the elected representatives becoming agents of others in the parliament just to share crumbs of power. She said we are going to the parliament with a definite agenda to bring Kashmir problem under the national focus and change the approach of the Union towards Jam-mu & Kashmir, which till now has been treated only as a security project.She said of all the regional parties in the country NC stands out for its dubious role and its inability to raise vital issues facing the state. She said while all other regional parties are asserting their regional repre-sentative character within democratic system to earn benefits for their states, NC has historically done the reverse.“Instead of seeking any benefit for the state, they have been representing for decades, NC always found com-fort in surrendering the political authority, the admin-istrative space, natural resources and institutions to the Centre,” said Mehbooba. She said people of the state had so far voted NC in most elections with the hope that it would be able to safeguard the interests of the state within the Union.“While NC never lived up to that expectation but its present tenure in the parliament has perhaps been the worst. Its members collaborated in the hanging of Mohammad Afzal Guroo, while the state governments of Punjab and Tamil Nadu and their members of par-liament stood up for similarly placed cases with the result the 2013 witnessed only hanging in the entire country, that of Mohammad Afzal Guroo.”She said that being in power both at the Centre and in the state, the NC presided over the killing of hundreds of youth and giving an entire generation a bad name of being anti-nationals, criminals, drug addicts, LeT elements etc.“It also changed the status of J&K Bank, an institution that could make any state proud and confident, and shifted to the RBI. Similarly, the frauds, like Cricket scandal, BOPEE scam, Drug scam, PHE scam, 2010 killings, Shopian rape and murder case, Haji Yousuf’s mysterious death, Examination scam, recruitment frauds, PSAs, FIRs against 10 thousand youth, Pepper Guns, Chili Grenades, Markundal (Sonawari), Gool, Shopian killings in 2013 etc. all have happened during Omar Abdullah’s tenure and the people have now a clear choice to make between NC and the PDP, she said and added vote for NC will mean endorsement of their shameful acts, fraud and deceit.”Mehbooba said the coming Lok Sabha polls are a fight for dignity and justice for the people of the state and whosoever forms the government in the Centre, the PDP will engage all, be it the opposition, regional par-ties and other shades of opinion both in and outside the parliament, to seek a new Kashmir policy along with a roadmap for its implementation.On the occasion the senior PDP leader, Moham-mad Khalil Band, MLA and district president; Wa-heed-Ur-Rehman Parra, youth wing in charge; Er Showkat Gayoor, party leader, Mukhtar Ahmad Band, youth leader and Bari Andrabi, party leader and oth-ers were also present. (KNS)

NC’s commitment to uphold Article 370 and continue to fight for Autonomy while transforming the State with landmark development and economic growth.According to a statement issued to KNS, Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that National Conference has always aspired for the appropriate resolution of the political issue and believes that NC’s Autonomy document is the best possible solution. National Conference has defended the special identity of J&K since 1947 and will continue to safeguard Article 370 for all times to come.Terming communal and divisive forces as the ene-mies of the country, Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that National Conference has always been an advocate of friendly and peaceful relations between India and Pakistan. There is a need to protect the secular fabric of India at a time when there is a concerted effort to polarize the nation along religious lines by those who believe in the politics of hate and division.Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that it was a recorded fact that National Conference had repeatedly asked the NDA government to consider and act on the Autono-my document so that the political issue in J&K could be resolved to the ultimate benefit of the people of this State. However, despite repeated proposals at the highest levels NDA refused to consider the Autonomy document and chose to summarily ignore it. Now the same party is out to launch an assault on Article 370 and dilute the State’s special status. However, National Conference will never allow this to happen. Dr. Farooq Abdullah said that it was unfortunate that our opponents in the State, who speak about talking on behalf of Indian Muslims, have ironically chosen to join hands with those who have inflicted the most grievous wounds on the secular fabric of this country. How will the ink-pot brigade muster the courage to speak on behalf of the Muslims of India when they have been unable to show the courage to speak on behalf of their own people first? Such ridiculous statements will not help our opponents and they should know that their nexus with BJP and Modi is a historic act of insensitivity and opportunism that the people of this State will never forget.On this occasion, Dr. Farooq Abdullah welcomed Javed Kochak son of Ex-Minister and veteran polit-ical leader, Late Ghulam Nabi Kochak of Anantnag

into the party fold. Dr. Farooq Abdullah garlanded Kochak and asked him to follow the footsteps of his father by dedicating himself to the service and welfare of the people.

rallies in Inderwal constituency including Thakrie, Mugalmaidan and Chatroo, in which more than 10,000 people from Mugalmaidan, Chatroo, Chingam, Sigdi, Kuchal and its adjoining areas had gathered at the rally venue to listen to the members.While addressing Congress MLA from Inderwal, G. M. Saroori accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of "trying to get votes through false propaganda". "The BJP leaders say one thing in their closed doors meetings and another in public meetings”."They (the BJP leaders) are talking of revoking arti-cle 370 of the Constitution, but no central government has the power to revoke this article," Saroori added.Saroori urged the people to rise above caste and reli-gion based politics and vote for the Congress. Keeping in view the existing development works carried out by the UPA-I and UPA-II, it becomes a matter of pride and gain, to vote and support Ghulam Nabi Azad, who is the only suitable candidate to safeguard our interest in the parliament.Congress leader appealed to the large gathering at var-ious places during the full day road show in Inderw-al Constituency, to come in large number along with their families to caste vote in favour of Ghulam Nabi Azad and make him victorious in the ensuing elec-tions.In his address MLA Bhaderwah Mohammed Sharied Niaz asked the electoral not to waste their time else-where and vote for the Congress nominees Ghulam Nabi Azad to help the party march ahead on the path of development. "The future is safe in the strong hands of Rahul Gandhi who is sure to become the prime min-ister,"In their address MLC Naresh Gupta, Advocate Aslam Goni, Sheikh Mujeeb and others also spoke on the oc-casion and termed UPA led government an ideal situa-tion for Jammu and Kashmir and said that the BJP led government at the Centre will not be in the interests of the country.They appealed all to support Azad by pressing hand button on EVMs on 17th April. Among others who were present were Retired DC Khursheed Ahmed Butt, Sec-retary JKPCC Piyaray Lal Shan, senior congress lead-ers including Mushtaq Ahmed Hap, Mahinder Singh Parihar, Irshad Ahmed Sheikh, Sarpanch Association Chatroo Tariq Wani, Congress block president Cha-troo Haji Ghulam Qadir Sheikh, Congress Tehsil pres-ident Ghulam Qadir Tappal, President IYC Inderwal Mohammad Latief Mughal, Piyaray Lal Sharma, Mo-hammad Aslam Saroori, Mansoor Ahmed, Abdul Gani Malik, Bashir Ahmed Sheikh, Captain Jagdish, Ronak Singh, party cadres, beside people in large number at-tended the meetings. (KNS)

on the people of the state. He said that it is a record-ed fact that the person has also played negative role throughout his political carrier by ensuring toppling of several democratically elected governments of the state for his own ulterior political motives.Taking a dig at the hypocritical attitude of the PDP for trying to promote themselves as champions of the Sri-nagar city, Sagar said that the people are aware of the fact that various land mark projects for ensuring de-velopment of the historic city where put in back burn-er during their regime and people were subjected to worst form of political victimization. He said that quite recently they had opposed tooth and nail the on spot police recruitment of the youth of the city and had even raised the issue in the assembly as well. Referring to the statements of the PDP viz a viz the K issue, Sagar said that the party is a group of political opportunist who keep on changing their colours like chameleons’ to suit their political interests as they have never ever raised the issue while in power where-as National Conference has always advocated for the peaceful resolution of the same. He said that the PDP is trying to hoodwink the people by telling tail and spreading falsehood but the people are well aware of their political mechanization and would ensure their defeat in the coming elections. (KNS)

“In 2010, I was one of the beneficiaries under IAY scheme. That year, government used to pay 48,000. But Malik paid only Rs 29,000,” said Muhammad Ya-sin, who was also a part of the delegation.The delegation said that the Sarpanch not only grabbed the money from IAY but also from National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA).They said that, “Last year, a developmental work un-der NREGA was going on in our area. Out of one lac each for three labourers, he grabbed 40,000 rupees –meant for– Abdul Lateef, Bashir Ahmad and Abdul Majeed,” adding: “Instead of paying, he hurled abuses on them.”The delegation further said: “Before being elected as Sarpanch, Manzoor Ahmad Malik was an ordinary la-bour, but now he owns property worth lacs of rupees.” “He has been utilizing the funds for himself instead of using it for the welfare and development of the Halqa,” the delegation alleged.The delegation demanded the higher authorities to take a serious look into the matter and said that the Sarpanch should be sacked with immediate effect adding that ‘he has sucked our blood’, adding that, ‘the poor people find it difficult to live under his head-ship’.The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Kupwara, Itrat Hussain, told GNS that the delegation had already met him and he has ordered a probe in this regard. “A probe has been ordered in this regard and District Panchayat Officer, Muhammad Shafi is enquiry offi-cer,” the DC said. (GNS)

polling on which Udhampur will witness the polls. April 24 will be the polling date for South Kashmir’s Anantnag parliamentary seat. April 30 and May 07 will be the polling dates for Srinagar and Baramulla

respectively. The counting of the voters is scheduled to be held on May 16.The details informed further that there are 9,633 poll-ing stations in valley with 7,346 Polling Station loca-tions.With the total number of 69, 33,118 registered voters in the state- the registered voters between 18 to 29 years are 0.3074 while as the women electors 0.4724in the state. A Candidate is permitted to spend rupees 70 lakhs as the expenditure on polls. (KNS)

He stated further other sectors have so far remained unaffected as the blossom is yet to be witnessed on other trees. “Apple and other fruit trees have not been much affected but delay in plantation of trees is the matter of concern.”Nigam added that due to the recent avalanche at Kul-gam- there have been reports of damage caused to var-ious trees including Almonds. “In total we can say that 8-10% of horticulture has been affected by the contin-uous rainfall.” He added that if the weather improves in next 15 days, valley’s horticulture sector could be saved from the further damage. “We must pray that for the good weather so that the sector could remain flourished this year.” (KNS)

4 persons who were in inebriated conditions creating nuisance at Nawabazar during late hours. The ar-rested persons were identified as Abdul Rashid Khan son of Ahmad Din Khan resident of Mandirbagh Gawkadal, Ghulam Qadir Khanyari son of Ghu-lam Muhammad resident of Aalikadal; Khursheed Ahmed Dar son of Ghulam Nabi Dar of Urdubazar and Showkat Ahmad Bhat son of Ali Muhammad resident of Urdubazar. All the 4 persons have been booked under 107 of CrPC. (CNS)

Kashmir at Delhi’s Centre stage

Srinagar, Mar 29 (KNS): Kashmir issue has attained a centre stage in New Delhi again with most of the po-litical parties making Kashmir as their main subject during debates and public rallies for the ensuing Lok Sabah elections.In the recent past, Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi had stated that Aam Admi Party (AAP) website refers Kashmir as the part of Pakistan. Modi on March 26 had stated, "A map of the country on the website of his party has shown Kashmir in Pakistan. A senior member (Prashant Bhushan) of his party demands plebiscite in Kashmir."AAP Saturday hit back- claiming, "BJP website shows Kashmir as disputed land, this is how BJP lies. We are ready for a debate.”Reacting to the challenge of AAP over the debate on Kashmir statements issued by the party, BJP spokes-person Nalin Kohli said that they are open for any debate over the issue. “No BJP member has ever asked for a plebiscite in Kashmir or a referendum on deployment of army there," said BJP spokesman.Further the recent prime time debates on TV News Channels also focused on the agenda of various politi-cal parties in India vis-à-vis Kashmir. The manifestos of various political parties that had raised the issue of Kashmir were threadbare discussed during the TV shows.Political observers remarked that Kashmir is becom-ing the prime focus of the debate among the political parties in India ahead of forthcoming polls. (KNS)

Body of Army soldier flown to Tamil Nadu

Jammu, March 29, CNS: Army Saturday paid tribute to Lance Naik V Anthony Nirmal Viji of Artillery Reg-iment who was killed in a militant attack on Friday. Army organized a wreath laying ceremony at Pathan-kot Air Field that was attended by Lieutenant General Praveen Bakshi, General Officer Commanding, Rising Star Corps and other military officials. The body of Lance Naik Anthony was flown to his native place Mugiyur in Vellupuram Distt of Tamil Nadu in an IAF aircraft. (CNS)

Langate, March 29, CNS: A ferocious bear created havoc by killing live stock at random in Walraha-ma and Shanoo areas of North Kashmir’s Lan-gete town. Eyewitnesses told CNS that a ferocious bear entered into the house of one Muhammad Shezad Shiekh son of Abdul Rehman resident of Walrahama and tried to attack the inmates. However all the family members managed to flee from the house after which the bear made its entry into the cowshed of Muhammad Ramzan Ganaie where he at-tacked the livestock. Sarpanch of the area, Ghulam Nabi Khawaja told CNS that the bear

killed 7 sheep and one cow thus created panic in the area. He further said that soon after killing the live stock, the bear en-tered into M.S.Polutry Farm located in Shanoo area of Langete Hand-wara. “The bear created havoc there and killed more than 400 chick-ens,” he said. “All attempts made by locals to trap the fe-rocious bear failed while the Wild Life depart-ment did not bother to visit to spot,” he said. (CNS) “All attempts made by locals to trap the ferocious bear failed while the Wild Life de-partment did not bother to visit to spot,” he said. (CNS)

Bear attacks livestockKills sheep, cow, and eats

more than 400 chicks

SRINAGAR | SUNDAY, MARCH | 30 | 2014Daily ZABARWAN TIMES NEWS

Affectionate adieu to Dhobi, Lone and Marazi

SRINAGAR, MARCH 29: Warm farewell was accorded to Mr. Ghulam Mo-hammad Dhobi, Mr. Abdul Gani Lone, Commentators and Mr. Abdul Rehman Marazi, Chauffeur of Field Publicity Unit of Information Department, Kashmir Division on their retirement from active Government service on superannua-tion here today.Field Publicity Officer, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Khan applauded the sincere and dedicated services of retirees which they rendered in Informa-tion Department for more than 30 years. He wished for their healthy, happy and prosperous post retirement life. He impressed upon other staff members that working style and behaviour of retires be adopted for developing work culture.

Field Publicity Officer alongwith other staff members presented mementoes and pensioner benefits to retirees on the occasion.

DEO 3-Anantnag Parliamentary Constituency issues election notification

ANANTNAG, MARCH 29: The District Election Officer (Deputy Commissioner), Anantnag, who is also the Return-ing Officer of 3-Anantnag Parliamentary Constituency, today issued election notification for conduct of polls.

As per the notification issued by the DEO, Anantnag, the last date for filing of nominations will be 5th of April, scru-tiny of nominations will be on 7th of April and last date of withdrawal of nominations has been fixed 9th of April. The poll will take place on 24th of April and counting thereof will be on 16th May, 2014.

The nomination papers may be delivered by a candi-date or any of his proposers to the Returning Officer or to the Assistant Commissioner, Revenue, Anantnag, (Assistant Returning Officer) at the office of Deputy Commissioner, Anantnag, between 11 am and 3 pm on any day (other than public holiday).

Consequent upon the issuance of notification, the representatives of national, regional parties and indepen-dent candidates collected the nomination papers from the office of ARO today.

Take a break from your routine, Libra. You might feel like you’re leading an army into battle as you strive for new adven-tures and conquer new realms. Make sure you take a bit of time out today to stop and let your troops rest. You deserve a little rest yourself. Use this moment of stillness to form your plan of attack so you’re sure about how to proceed.

The key for you is to minimize your daily drama as much as possible, Scorpio. You may not realize how much you cripple your-self by the way you exaggerate every aspect of your life. Try not to give so much of your attention to things that really don’t matter much. Petty jealousy and gossip about other people’s lives are es-pecially irrelevant in your world.

Be careful of advertising yourself as someone who is so strong and mentally competent that you’re capable of handling every-thing, Sagittarius. Take note that the strongest mule on the trail usually ends up carrying the most weight. Your emotions are more sensitive than you may think, and certainly more than you demonstrate to others. Be honest about the way you feel and not just the way you think.

Things should flow well for you today with very little ef-fort on your part, Capricorn. Take note that if any quarrel arises, it’s an indication that the person you’re arguing with isn’t nec-essarily the right person to deal with or confide in. Emotional issues are likely to be the hardest ones to overcome, but this shouldn’t be a problem for you. You have the ability to work through these like a pro.

This is meant to be a nice, relaxing day, so treat it as such, Aquarius. There’s no need for you to plan any great strategy at this time. Try to take it easy and not indulge in any unnecessary stress. This is your time to enjoy the moment. Don’t tax your mind by overanalyzing everything that comes your way. Go with the flow and have a great time regardless of what you end up doing.

Your sensual nature is heightened, Pisces, and you’ll find yourself engaged in tender moments and languid peacefulness in the company of others. Soothe your soul by letting yourself slip into situations that give you the emotional freedom to do or say whatever comes to mind. Life should be like a love poem written by a great master. Accept the good energy that comes your way.

Your sixth sense is right on target, Virgo, so trust your instincts today. You’re likely to connect with someone in a wonderful partnership that will help you foster the very plan you want to develop now. Stay close to those things that resonate strongly with your morals. The answer is in front of you; you don’t have to search too far afield in order to find it.

Allow your eager and restless nature to express itself in ways other than through the spoken word, Aries. Show someone that you care through your gentle touch or a big bear hug. Hold on a little bit more tightly than you might normally. There’s an unspo-ken understanding that comes when you communicate through nothing but pure silence. Work on developing this kind of connec-tion with those closest to you.

This is a terrific day for you, Taurus. You should find that your relationships, especially with men, go exceptionally well. Your tender and extremely sensitive nature is finally being recognized as the treasure chest it is. There are many times in which this type of personality is seen as weak, yet today is one of those times in which you’re given the full credit you deserve.

A selfish attitude on your part won’t be tolerated today, re-gardless of the circumstances, Gemini. Don’t make it worse for yourself by pretending that you don’t notice others’ hurt feelings. People are likely to be extra sensitive today, so be careful about trying to impose your will on someone who really wants nothing more than an ear to talk to and a shoulder to cry on.

You could find the hardest person to face is you, Cancer. You tend toward introspection, and you may find yourself shrinking into self-recrimination. You could analyze the important people in your life and yet fail to address the one you really need to look at – you. As you continually strive for perfection, give yourself proper credit. Do something nice for yourself today.

Take advantage of the creative energy in the air today, Leo. Keep your hands moving and your imagination flowing toward something fun and artistic. If you begin to doubt your work, you may fall down a spiral of creative blockage. Don’t get into the habit of constantly judging the quality or outcome of your work. Give yourself free rein to open up and explore whatever comes to mind.

BANDIPORA, MARCH 29: District Legal Services Authority, Bandipora organized an awareness camp on “Me-diation and Conciliation’’ at Town Hall Bandipora today with Principal, District and Sessions Judge, Bandipora, Mr. Haq Nawaz Zargar in chair.

District Development Commission-er Bandipora, Dr. Shah Faisal was the chief guest whileas Judges and Officers from Judiciary, SP Bandipora, President Bar Association, Senior Advocates, of-ficers from civil administration, Sar-panchs, Anganwari workers and other people attended the camp.

Emphasizing the need of adopting the way of mediation and conciliation, the District Judge said that this is the better way to save precious time and money and also to create a happy so-ciety.

Dr. Shah Faisal on the occa-sion appealed the people particularly the parents and Sarpanchs to discharge their responsibility of solving the minor

cases at village and Panchayat level. He sought cooperation from people in eradicating crimes and social evils spreading over in the society.

Several questions raised by the par-ticipants were also answered by the law experts in the camp.Similar awareness camp was held under the chairman-

ship of Chairman, Tehsil Legal Services Committee, Sumbal, Fariqa Nazir at Town Hall Sumbal today during which the participants were sensitized about ‘’Mediation and Conciliation’’.

The camp was attended by Tehsildar Sonawari, Senior Advocates and a good number of locals.

Cadaveric Transplantation held at SKIMS

SRINAGAR, MARCH 29: A public awareness programme on “Cadaveric Transplantation, a need of the hour” organized by Department of Nephrology, SKIMS was held here today.

Threadbare discussions were held on the significance of organ and tissue transplantation to Circumvent Chronically failed vital organs like, Kidney, Liver and Heart.

Speaking on the occasion, HOD Department of Urol-ogy SKIMS Dr. Saleem Wani said that 93 successful Kidney Transplantation surgeries have been performed at SKIMS. He stressed for awareness on organ transplantation particu-larly concept of brain death need to be widely publicized. He exhorted upon government community leaders, media and religious scholars to make cadaveric transplantation pro-gram a success by creating awareness among public. He also presented video on kidney transplantation recently done at SKIMS.

Among others, Dr Muzaffar Wani, Dr. Imtiyaz Wani, Dr. Gul Javaid and Dr. Allaqband also spoke on the Kidney and Cadaveric Transplantations.

Public awareness programme on

Mediation and Conciliation camp held at Bandipora, Sumbal

SRINAGAR, MARCH 29: Elec-tion Observer for Srinagar Par-liamentary Constituency, Mr. Dheeraj Singh convened a meet-ing with all the Nodal Officers to review the poll preparedness for the Parliamentary Election-2014 scheduled to be held on April 30, 2014 for Srinagar Constituency, here today.

During the meeting, the Observer was briefed about basic facilities put in place at polling stations, setting up of expendi-ture monitoring cell, imparting of training to polling staff, appoint-ment and training of sectoral and zonal officers, polling personnel and randomization of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), moni-toring of Model Code of Conduct and establishing of Media Moni-toring Cell.

Various aspects for ensuring smooth conduct of polling be-sides, SVEEP plan, transport plan, communication network, strict implementation of Model Code of Conduct, Election Expenditure Monitoring Cell and security sce-nario were threadbare discussed.

Expressing satisfaction over the preparedness and ar-rangements made for the elec-tions, the Observer emphasized

for facilitating the voters for bet-ter turnout during the elections. The progress achieved in organiz-ing voter awareness drive under Systematic Voters Education & Electronic Participation (SVEEP) programme in Srinagar Parlia-mentary Constituency compris-ing of Srinagar, Budgam and Gan-derbal districts was also reviewed besides functioning of Media Cer-tification & Monitoring Committee (MCMC) set up by the District Elec-tion Officers.

Earlier, District Election Officer, Srinagar, Mr. Farooq Ah-mad Shah, District Election Offi-cer, Budgam, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Shah and District Election Officer, Ganderbal, Mr. Sarmad Hafeez apprised the Observer about the preparedness and arrangements being put in place for smooth con-duct of elections in their respec-tive districts through PowerPoint presentations.The District Elec-tion Officers briefed the Observer about monitoring of Model Code of Conduct and Monitoring of ex-penditures being incurred by the candidates of Political Parties.

Among others, all the AROS, Nodal Officers and other con-cerned officers were present in the meeting.

Election Observer reviews election preparedness in Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency

Medical Second Opinion in Srinagar now ClearPath expand its wings to Srinagar New Delhi, March 29:

Medical Second Opinion, one of the leading health care portal is all set to launch its services in Srinagar. The first innovative online medical portal offers sec-ond opinion services from the best doctors of various specialties and functions by bringing them under one common platform. The ba-sic aim is to bridge the gap in seeking an expert second opinion and consultations from the most reliable doc-tors of the country usually based out of metropolitan cities for an individual’s medication and medical related problems.Medical Second Opinion has an ag-gregation of exclusive fine doctors and hospital provid-ers from India and abroad. Patients who have been di-agnosed for any tertiary lev-

el procedure/ surgery/ med-ical intervention can seek a second opinion before they undergo the procedure. Since, most of the doctors in the country are largely in metropolitan cities, cit-ies like Srinagar demanded such platforms to target their needs. There are many areas in the valley where road connectivity is deplor-able but are well connected with the internet. Quality health care in such times get ignored because of the lack of access and the high cost involved in reaching out to the best doctors of the coun-try. Medical Second Opinion that receives 60 % of its traf-fic generated by users from tier 3 cities of India con-nects an individual in a far flung town to the top doctor from selected specialties for his medical consultation

within a span of 24 hours. The medical portal thus not only cuts down the travel-ling expenses but also bring doctors in Srinagar with its trademark service of Con-nected OPD. To be launched soon, with Connected OPD in Srinagar, leading doctors from New Delhi and Mum-bai and other cities will be traveling to the valley on a periodic schedule to tend to patients physically. Mr. Sachin Chaudhary, Found-er and CEO of Medical Sec-ond Opinion sums up the offering for the patients in Jammu and Kashmir stating, “For an anytime consultation, patients can connect to the choicest of doctors from our panel. While for a face to face consultation, a few leading doctors that will be travel-ing to Srinagar.

Srinagar, March 29: ClearPath, an American company specialized in teeth Aligners is all braced up to stretch its wings across Srinagar region to tap the underutilized potential of burgeoning Medical tourism. Srinagar being an ultimate tourism destination for the people across globe, ClearPath believes to combat the trend of boost-ing Medical tourism. With ample of foreign inflow in the Srinagar market, there is a much wider scope for Clear-Path to extend its standardized experi-ence of unique propriety, patented and convenient 3D solutions for irregular and crooked teeth.

Clear Aligners are becoming the popular choice of treatment for mal-occlusion among teens and adults, females and males worldwide. With the launch of first ever 3D aligners in India, ClearPath paves the way for this redefining treatment modality to take

the Srinagar tourists by a storm.ClearPath is the first & only 3D tech-

nology based, Clear Aligner service provider in India, the company enjoys its monopoly with >200% growth year on year in last few years. ClearPath aims at a dramatic

increase in the points of sale owing to the tourism at Srinagar.

The Founder and CEO of ClearPath, Dr Ataat Khan adds, “We have a vision of creating million ClearPath smiles and a mission of making aligner treat-ment affordable and available in India and around the

world. Indian market is very recep-tive to newer technologies and we are proud to be the pioneers in this ground breaking orthodontic technology. We are delighted to extend our reach to the tourists coming in Srinagar which will mark its way for ever increasing medical tourism.”

Mulberry plantation drive kick startedDr. Samoon plants sapling at Mirgund

MIRGUND, MARCH 29: In the backdrop of weeklong festival of World Arbor Day, Commissioner/Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon kick started mulberry plantation drive in Kashmir di-vision by planting a mulberry sapling in Nursery at Basic Seed Station, Sericulture Development Department, Mirgund Baramulla here today.

Director Sericulture, Dr. Malik Farooq and other officers of the department were also present on the occasion.

Pertinent to mention that the Department of Sericulture is planting 06 lakh mulberry plants of exotic varieties in Kashmir divi-sion.Due to concerted efforts of the Department of Sericulture, there has been tremendous enhance-ment in cocoon production both quantitatively as well as qualita-tively thereby bringing increase the financial the returns of the silkworm rearers.

Daily Zabarwan TimesEDITORIAL/ OPINIONEDITORIAL/ OPINIONDaily Zabarwan TimesSrinagar, Sunday 30 March 2014

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

Devastation of Forests-an

alarming situation

The devastation of forests in the world as a whole has resulted in global warm-

ing which, in turn has confront-ed the world with massive earth quakes, Tsunamis’, floods, wild fires and other natural calam-ities. The global warming has made the environment so im-balanced that the existence of mankind has become subservi-ent to the nature’s fury. In Jam-mu & Kashmir the illegal felling of forest cover and its irratio-nal exploitation has brought the state at the brink of becom-ing a cold desert. Tremendous decrease in the forest cover is gradually turning the soil un-fertile and the environment in-conducive to human living. It is for many years now that the val-ley has not had enough snow-fall and rains. The whole winter goes with the little or no snow-fall at all and the whole summer passes without sufficient rain-fall. The glaciers at higher ridges are melting day by day and the water resources are drying up. The water level has gone down considerably and the availabil-ity of clean drinking water is becoming a scarcity with every passing day. It is due to the ille-gal felling that the whole forest belt spreading from Gulmarg to Yousmarg, from Yousmarg to Pir Panchal and from there to Pahalgam is decreasing and with this decrease the imbal-ance in the environment is go-ing upwards and creating many fold difficulties for the survival of the human beings and forest life. It is really unfortunate that the forest department, Police, The environment branch of the state government and the other governmental agencies are ei-ther hand in glove with the el-ements mainly responsible for forest devastation or they shut their eyes deliberately for the rea-sons which are obviously benefi-cial for them. Despite the repeat-ed claims and announcements for forest policy, there seems to be none which can be used as an effective tool to curb the forest elimination. The governmental apathy, the unending greed of exploiters, smugglers and the un-due support extended to them by the official agencies have paved an easy way for extraction of lacs of cubic feet of timber from the forest of the state annually. If this trend is not stopped, time is not far when the paradise on earth will become a hell on earth and which will be cropless, plant-less, waterless and barren and consequently life less.

Daily Zabarwan TimesEDITORIAL/ OPINIONEDITORIAL/ OPINIONDaily Zabarwan TimesSrinagar, Friday 14 February 2014

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

Stray dog menace- A

grave problem She Taxi- Offers a Safe Journey for Women

She Taxi, the 24X7 taxi service operated by women for women travellers, will be launched soon at Kochi city, after the suc-cessful implementation of the project in Thi-ruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala.

The service initiated by the Gender Park which func-tions under the Department of Social Justice, Gov-ernment of Kerala has been designed to ensure a safe and reliable mode of transport for women as well as to encourage entrepreneurship and self-employment among women. The ‘24x7 She Taxi Service’ has an advanced safety enabled technology that would make travel-ling much safer and secure. Travellers can book the cab via online or mobile on a 24X7 basis. The trav-eller can dial a specific service number to book the taxi, which will be unique for the entire state. The traveler will receive a Unique Identification Code along with a 24x7 She Taxi service number. This will allow the traveler to verify the cab number be-fore boarding the cab. The cab service will pick the traveler from the designated boarding point and drop at the specified destination. The traveller will have the option to make payment via cash, debit card or credit card. In order to avoid any disputes on the travel fare, an electronic payment system will be introduced. Various other features such as refreshment mini bar and entertainment facilities including music, play stations are also provided in the cabs.The cab, designed and integrated with Global Posi-tioning system(GPS) will enable to monitor and track the activities of the traveller as well as the driver and will facilitate immediate aid in case of any emergency situation. The cabs are also programmed to de-mobi-lize the cab based on the directions from the ‘24x7 Emergency Call Centre’ to ensure a higher degree of pro-active safety element especially during un-foreseen circumstances. Safe Bus, Safe Me, Safe Me Mobile and Safe City Response Ecosystem are the major safety offering technologies used in She Taxi service. The Safe bus technology used to control the speed, sudden break, and sudden turn and to ensure engine safety condition to improve the driving be-havior. Safe Me is a personal emergency alert service to the She Taxi drivers and the passengers inside the cab. Safe Me Mobile is a mobile based emergency alert application for She Taxi drivers outside the car.

A control room had been set up to track and moni-tor the operations of the cab on a constant basis. All alerts will be received and vehicles will be proactively monitored from this control room. The support of public safety officers is also available.She Taxi is a project that enhances women en-trepreneurship, self employment and financial security of women. The Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation, another associate of the project, will give financial support for the entrepreneurs. KSWDC will provide loans for the entrepreneurs at a lower interest rate to pur-chase the vehicle. Gender Park is the owner of She Taxi service and they manage overall monitoring and coordination. Gender Park will identify the beneficiaries, select and extend fund support to them. Gender Park will organize promotional and branding activities of the project, awareness and training programmes to the entrepreneurs.Gender Park is an autonomous institution pro-

moted by the Government of Kerala to resolve gender inequity in development. Gender Park acts as a convergence centre for Women Studies, Research Activities, Entrepreneurship Initiatives, Documentation, Library, Education, Health and Support, Business and Trade, Productive Sectors, etc. It has been created to tackle the problems and issues of women and to ensure better social securi-ty in all aspects of their well-being. At Gender Park, various activities of women are pooled into a com-mon platform irrespective of social, political or eco-nomic divisions.She Taxi Service is expected to solve the travelling problem of women in late hours up to an extent. It will support the women travellers from working cat-egory and the tourists visiting Kerala. The security and living standard of women will project the de-velopment level of a State. Hence She Taxi, a public sector initiative for women empowerment will be the start of a new epoch.

Kashmir valley is confront-ed with many problems including the erratic pow-

er and water supply besides other day to day problems which make the life of common people a hell in this chilly winter. In addition to the big problems there are small-er problems which have made the life risky particularly that of children, women and old people. For example the menace of stray dogs in the city of Srinagar as well as in other towns and villages is assuming the shape of one of the most dangerous problems. The stray dogs have increased many fold, so have increased the num-ber of the people mostly children and women who have been bit-ten by the stray dogs. Some of the children have even been killed in the dog attacks. It is really shock-ing that the hands of authorities have been tied by so called NGOs who are up in arms when any step is initiated by Municipal Cor-porations against huge number of stray dogs. These NGOs have no sympathy for humans whom these dogs make their prey ev-ery day but for the sake of money and name these NGOs do not al-low any action of the concerned authorities which could help to get rid of these stray dogs. There is no doubt that every human or animal has right to live but when one’s life becomes endangered by the presence of other, some steps have to be taken to protect the life of the specie which is victim of the attacks. The Srinagar Municipal Corporation had made arrange-ments to catch stray dogs and put them at dog house arranged for them so that the citizens are pro-tected from them. But the insuf-ficient space and staff has created hindrances in this project also and the result is that every day we are hearing the news of one per-son or the other been attacked by the stray dogs. Recently a small child was dragged out of his house by dogs in absence of his parents and killed, thus ending a precious life. The government has to think about the increasing dog menace and chalk out a strategy which can neutralize the dogs without providing any opportunity to so called NGOs to make hue and cry. If this is not done it will be-come impossible for children, women and old people even to venture out of their houses as the strength of stray dogs has risen to thousands in the city itself, not the question of other towns and villages.

Aejaz Iqbal

From the moment a baby opens its eyes to this world, its body must adapt to a new life. Every factor to facilitate this adaptation has been put into effect during

and after the pregnancy. The clearest ex-ample of this is the stage of the formation of mother's milk.The formation of the milk is provided by the mother's hormones. The production of milk is connected basically to a hormone called "prolactin" produced by the ante-rior pituitary gland in the brain. During pregnancy, the progesterone and the oes-trogen hormones produced by the placen-ta prevent prolactin from being activated and producing milk. But the placenta is discharged after birth causing the level of progesterone and oestrogen in the blood to fall; after this, prolactin comes into action and contributes to the formation of milk. Because of this communication among the hormones, such a valuable nu-trient as mother's milk is prepared exactly at the moment when the baby needs it. This is indeed a momentous exchange of information. While the placenta is in the body, it performs vital tasks but at the right time it must be ejected. This brings with it a very important development for human life. In the stages of human creation all the things that take place complement one an-other. Certainly, these are clear proofs that every human being has been constructed by a supreme power.And these stages continue after the baby has come into the world. The production of milk by the mother increases according to the baby's need for nourishment. In the first days, up to 50 g. is produced; in the sixth month, the production may be as high as one litre. Those scientists who have tried to find the formula for mother's milk

have been unsuccessful after long investi-gations because there is no standard type of mother's milk. In every mother's body, milk is produced according to the needs of her own baby, and this milk nourishes the baby in a way that no other extrane-ous nourishment can. Research has shown that the antibodies, hormones, vitamins and minerals in mother's milk are deter-mined by the needs of the baby.The use of nutrient material other than mother's milk does not completely meet the needs of the baby. For example, no other nutrient material contains the an-tibodies required for the baby's immune system. Cow's milk is considered to be the classic nutrient material for babies. When we compare it with mother's milk, we can better understand the superiority of the latter. In cow's milk there is a higher amount of casein than in human milk. Ca-sein is a protein found in coagulated (sour) milk. This material breaks down into larg-er pieces in the stomach making digestion difficult. For this reason, cow's milk is harder to digest than mother's milk. The fact that little of this material is found in mother's milk makes the baby's digestion easier.These two kinds of milk are also different with regard to the composition of amino acids. Due to this difference in composi-tion, the total number of amino acids pres-ent in the plasma of a baby fed with cow's milk is greater; the level of some amino acids is too high while the level of others is too low. This has negative effects on the nervous system and, because of the higher protein content, places an extra burden on the kidneys. Another factor that makes mother's milk different is its sugar content. In mother's milk and cow's milk there is the same kind of sugar-lactose. But the amount of lactose in human milk (L / 7g) is different from

that in cow's milk (L / 4.8g). Besides, the large coagulated particles of cow's milk pass much more slowly through the small intestine. For this reason, high amounts of fluid and lactose, which are very import-ant, are absorbed in the first section of the small intestine. Coagulated particles of mother's milk (unlike those of cow's milk) pass through the small intestine easily, and lactose and fluid reach the large intestine. In this way, a healthy intestinal structure develops. The second advantage of the great quantity of lactose found in human milk is that it ensures the synthesis of a material called "cerebroside", which plays an important role in the construction of the essential structures of the nervous sys-tem.Despite the fact that the fat level in moth-er's milk and cow's milk is almost the same, the quality of those fats is different. The linoleic acid in mother's milk is the only fatty acid required in the nourish-ment of the baby.Another factor that distinguishes mother's milk is the amount and proportion of the salt and minerals it contains. For example, in cow's milk the amount of calcium and phosphorus is high; but the ratio of cal-cium to phosphorus in cow's milk makes it difficult to digest properly. Phosphorus can combine with calcium in the digestive tract and actually prevent the absorption of calcium. Therefore, if a baby is given cow's milk in the first days of its life, the way can be opened to certain abnormali-ties due to a drop of the level of calcium in the blood. 1Apart from this, human milk is 50% iron. Because cow's milk contains a much lower proportion of this mineral, babies fed on cow's milk can develop anaemia linked to iron deficiency.Richness in vitamins is another factor that makes mother's milk indispensable for

the baby. From the point of view of the vitamins they contain, mother's milk and cow's milk are quite different. Despite the fact that the level of vitamin A is the same, the level of vitamins E, C and K is higher in mother's milk. The amount of vitamin D in mother's milk is sufficient for the baby's needs.A baby coming into the world from the protected, bacteria-free womb of its moth-er must fight against several bacteria in the external world. One of the most important features of mother's milk is that it protects the baby from infections. The protec-tive cells (antibodies) that pass from the mother's milk to the baby cause the baby to start fighting against bacteria it had never known before, as if it had actually been informed. The antibodies contained in great quantities in the form of mother's milk called "colostrum", which is secreted in the first few days after birth, perform an especially protective function.This protection that mother's milk pro-vides for the baby (protection from slight infections to very serious ones), is vitally important for the first few months, and its benefits increase in proportion to the peri-od of breast feeding.The benefits to the baby of mother's milk become more evident every passing day. One of the things scientists have discov-ered about mother's milk is that it is highly beneficial for a baby up to two years of age. The importance of this recent discovery was revealed to us 14 centuries ago:We have instructed man concerning his parents. Bearing him caused his mother great debility and the period of his wean-ing was two years: "Give thanks to Me and to your parents. I am your final destina-tion." (Qur'an, 31: 14)

Aejaz Iqbal (Microbiologist)Nadihal Bandipora

aijazsmile@gmail.com

Mother's Milk