Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 15 June 2014

Srinagar, Jun 14 : Defense minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday arrived here for a two day visit to Jammu and Kashmir to asses and review the security situation. Reports reaching KNS said that on his maiden visit since assuming charge as Defence Minister last month Mr Jaitley was accompanied by Army chief Gener-al Bikram Singh. According to a defence ministry spokesman on arrival, the De-fence Minister was received by Lt Gen DS Hooda, Northern Army Commander and Lt Gen Gurmit Singh, Chinar Corps Commander. The Defence Minister visited Headquarters of Chinar Corps wherein he was given a comprehensive briefing on the overall security situation in the Valley in-

cluding the Counter Infiltration grid along the Line of Control and Counter Terrorism grid in the hinterland. Later in the day, the defense minister met Governor N N

See Jaitley on pg 11

Srinagar, June 14: Scores of employ-ees from Consumer Affairs and Pub-lic Distribution (CA&PD) Saturday staged a protest in the premises of Srinagar office against what they termed as illegal transfers on the be-hest of some department officials. The protestors claimed that one of the ‘honest and dedicated’ employee was twice transferred within a short span of four months on the behest of some of the officials of the depart-ment. They said that after his posting for four years in Pulwama, an employee namely Mukhtar Ahmed Bhat was transferred to main office Srinagar as clerk Stationery section in Feb-ruary this year vide order number CAPDK/631. “Some officials could not digest his integrity and a trans-fer order was handed over to

See Transfer on pg 11

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MONDAY 15 June | 2014 | 16 Shaban, 1435 AH | PAGES 12| VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 165| 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(MONDAY)SUNRISE ON (TUESDAY) 05:20AM

07:45PM 14.9 C 33.1 C

FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:

-Mainly dry weather over the state.

Mainly clear sky. Maximum &Minimum tempera-tures will be around 32°C & 15°C respectively.

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J&K Bank holds customer meet in Sopore

No Govtt, no administration- everything in shambles

Srinagar, June 14: As part of pro-gramme to meet and listen to its customers, J&K Bank held a custom-er meet at Dak Bungalow Sopore, which was attended by a large num-ber of senior-citizens, valuable cus-tomers representing a cross-section of society engaged in horticulture, trade and industry.The meeting was conducted by the bank’s Cluster II of Kashmir (North).The bank’s President M Amin Mir presided over the meeting in pres-ence of Zonal Head (North) M S Ka-boo, Vice President A K Pandita, Cluster Head Shahzad Hussain Teli

It is now more than six months that any developmental activity as such has taken place in the valley. The depleted roads, lanes, by-lanes are a testimony to this stand still situation. What a pity that only three or four days back some men and machines appeared on Srinagar-Anantnag Na-tional Highway, but again vanished in thick air leaving this national high-way in its pathetic condition adding to the woes of daily commuters and tourists. Perhaps authorities have gone in hibernation, the construc-tion agency has deserted this widen-ing four lane project. The politicians in power have mentally conceded the defeat after they got their share of

CA&PD employees protested against ‘motivated’ transfer

Jaitley arrives in Srinagar on a 2-day visit to state

02 die, 36 injured in road accidents

02 girls drown in Awantipora

Body recovered in Tral

Srinagar, June 14 : Two persons died while 36 were injured in dif-ferent road accidents across the valley.A truck bearing registration number JK05C-5709 and a Swift car bearing registration number JK01V-1845 collided at Palhallan, in the jurisdiction of Police Sta-tion Pattan, Baramulla. In this accident three person

See Injured on pg 11

Srinagar, June 14 ; Two girls drowned in a well at Tral, one of them died on spot and another was rescued by police and locals of the area.Two girls Mehvish daughter of Showkat Ahmad and Azrah son of Mohammad Ibrahim Dar residents of Kharpora Tral, Awantipora fell in a well at Khar-pora, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Awanipora, resulting in on spot death of Mehvish. How-ever, Azrah Jan was rescued by Police and locals and was shifted to Sub District Hospital Tral for treatment. (KNS)

Srinagar, June 14 (KNS): Tral Po-lice has recovered a body from Tral Dachgam forests.Police Tral recovered a human skelton from Bathan Top (High-er reaches of Tral-Dachigam for-ests) which was later identified that of Abdul Rehman Lone son of Nabir Lone resident of Nagendar Khrew, Pampore. After complet-ing all medico-legal formalities, the body was handed over to his legal heirs for last rites. Police has registered a case and

See Tral on pg 11

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Srinagar, June 14: In a deadly road accident, two cousins from Srinagar city lost their lives while the wife of one of the deceased is battling for life in the hospital. Eyewitnesses told CNS that a private Vehicle (Es-teem) DL3C-AU-0653) on way from Delhi to Srinagar collided with a speedy Truck (JK01A-3594) coming from the opposite direc-tion on Srinagar-Jammu highway near Chachkoot Awantipora in South Kash-mir’s Anantnag district. The driver of the Esteem died on the spot while his cousin suc-cumbed to his injuries at SMHS hospi-tal Srinagar. A police official told CNS

that deceased were cousin brothers. He identified them as Shabir Ahmed

See Accident on pg 11

Two cousins die in road accident Wife of one of deceased battling for life

Goa, June 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday dedicated India’s largest war-ship INS Vikramaditya to the nation and pitched for mak-ing the country self-reliant in manufacturing defence equip-ment, shedding dependence on imports.In his first outing after taking charge as Prime Minister, he addressed the naval personnel onboard the ship off the Goa coast, calling the addition of the warship to the force as a “historic” step.“It is an important day for our nation. It is a golden day in Indian Navy’s history. For me, it is a matter of pride and happiness that INS Vikrama-ditya is joining the Navy. It is a historic step,” he said.Stressing on the need for self-reliance in defence equipment manufacturing, he

said, “We need to give immense impor-tance to latest technology. This will

See PM on pg 11

ASHA workers stage protest in favour of their demands

>>>>> PG 06 >>>>> PG 06 >>>>> PG 11

Pakistan in search of new talents

Governor reviews Yatra arrangements

Ahmad Shahzad taking interest in FIFA World Cup

NC to hold crucial provincial level meeting on Monday

Srinagar, June 14: In an attempt to harness the dividends of some of the major decisions taken re-cently, the National Conference is holding a crucial meeting of its cadres from Kashmir province on June 16.Reliable sources told KNS, that Dr Farooq Abdullah is likely to preside over the meeting which as the chief minister Omar Ab-dullah besides the top party lead-ership and office bearers of the party will attend the meeting.Party insiders told KNS that the meeting will likely witness dis-cussions on the preparedness for the upcoming assembly elections. Though the party has already di-rected its block presidents of each constituency to nominate three probable candidates for the up-coming assembly, the meeting is likely to take some important de-cisions that will have its impact on mandate distribution. “Though we do not know the agenda of this provincial level

meeting but most prob-able the restructuring of the party especially at the district levels can be an agenda for the dis-

cussion,” a senior NC leader told KNS pleading anonymity.Party sources told KNS that each block president of each constitu-ency has been asked to come up with at least three names who have more acceptability and chances of winniability in the constituency. These names will be then discussed in a meeting later and a consensus will be evolved on a final candidate who will be given party mandate to contest the upcoming assembly elections. This time many new faces who have more acceptabil-ity among people will be given a chance to contest the assembly elections. Their names will be evolved after a threadbare con-sensus and the exercise has al-ready been kick-started by the party,” a senior NC leader told KNS. Party sources revealed it to KNS that some of the party youth lead-ers whose names surface

See NC on pg 11

Srinagar, June 14: Scores of ASHA Workers Saturday held a protest demonstration against the govern-ment demanding immediate redressal of their long pending demands which include regularization of their services as health workers, and enhancement in monthly honorarium. Shouting anti government slogans scores of Asha workers assembled at Muncipal Park Srinagar and staged protest against what they termed gov-ernment’s insensitive approach to ful-fill their long pending demands. “We are working under a

See ASHA on pg 11

PM dedicates country’s largest warship INS Vikramaditya to the nation

Srinagar, June 14: A former Hizb-ul-Mujahideen militant in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bara-mulla district have accused police of ‘forcing him to pick up arms’ and alleged he is fac-ing ‘continuous harassment at their hands’.Suhail Ahmad Lone of Kani-spora Baramulla said he was called for questioning by po-lice’s Special Operation Group on Saturday morning. “I was called by SOG and was direct-ed to reach Police Lines. They told me we have to meet you,”

he told GNS over phone.“They accused me of hav-ing links with militants. I told them I will go before

Masjid committee if it contin-ues and would pick up arms again. It is better to get killed instead of facing harassment. Later I was taken to Joint In-terrogation Centre (JIC) Bara-mulla,” he said.Lone said he was arrested in 2002 and was released in 2006.“I started normal life after my release. I am contractor and I am doing my normal routine work. I am married and con-tinuous police harassment is affecting my life,” Lone said.He alleged whenever some

militancy related incident takes place in Baramulla, he is summoned. “I am in no way involved with militants but po-lice is continuously harassing me.”“Today, I was questioned in connection with Kanispora firing incident,” Lone said, adding: “First of all I was not at home that evening and it has been established that was the drama enacted by Kakroo him-self. Everyone knows.” “They released me after saying that nothing should happen from Sangrama to Baramulla,” he claimed.Appealing police, he said:

See Police on pg 11

Ex-militant alleges police ‘forcing’ him to pick gun again

Shab-e-Baraat observed with religious fervour

Congregations held across the state

Meets Governor, holds one-to-one meet with CMReviews security situation

Srinagar, June 14 : Shab-e-Baraat was observed in Jammu and Kash-mir Friday night with religious zeal and fervour. The big-gest gathering on the eve of Shab-e-Baraat was held at the his-toric Jamia Mas-jid Srinagar where thousands of people, including women participated in the night long prayers. The prayers were led by Mirwaiz Umar Fa-rooq.According to a state-ment issued to KNS, Mirwaiz spoke about the signifi-cance of Shab-e-Baraat and said it was a divine night when Almighty Allah arranges affairs of the next one year. On Shab-e-Barat, Allah writes the destinies of all his creations for the coming year by taking into ac-count their past deeds.While reciting Quran, Mirwaiz said the occasion provides opportunity to spend the night in praying and

seeking forgiveness and blessings from Allah. He asked people to im-

plement the teachings of Quran and Islam and specially stressed upon the youth to follow the footsteps of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) so as to eradicate social ills and bring re-forms in the society.Mirwaiz said the Quran was the com-plete was of life for mankind and till judgment day Muslims would con-tinue to be guided by the holy

See Baraat on pg 11

Ukraine Prosecutor: 49 Died as Rebels Down PlaneIt was a bitter setback for Ukrainian forces, which have struggled to suppress an armed in-surgency by foes of the new government.Nine crew and 40 troops were aboard the Il-76 when it went down early Saturday as it ap-proached the airport at the city of Luhansk, the Ukrainian prosecutor general’s office said in a statement.That exceeded the loss of 12 soldiers including a general on May 29 when rebels shot down a troop helicopter near the eastern city of Slovyansk.The incident underlines questions about rebel access to military gear. Ukraine has accused Rus-sia of permitting three tanks to cross the border where they were used by rebels. Russia denies supplying the separatists.Denis Pushilin, a leader of the separatist Donetsk People’s Republic, told Russian state television Friday that rebels had the tanks but it was “im-proper to ask” where they got them.The defense ministry’s statement said that the rebels “cynically and treacherously” downed the plane using anti-aircraft guns and heavy ma-chine guns. It expressed sympathy to the families of those killed “for their tragic and irreparable loss.”

Alexei Toporov, defense spokesman for the self-proclaimed Luhansk People’s Republic, said the aircraft was shot down after what he termed Ukrainian “occupiers” refused an ultimatum to abandon the Luhansk airport.Luhansk is in Ukraine’s east near the border with Russia, an area that has seen separatists seize government buildings and declare indepen-dence after holding disputed referendums.Ukraine had claimed a success on Friday when troops retook some rebel-occupied buildings in the port city of Mariupol. No deaths were report-ed.Before Saturday’s incident, the Ukrainian health ministry had said at least 270 people had died in clashes between government forces and armed separatists.Tensions between Ukraine and Russia escalated in February after pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was driven from office by a massive protest movement made up of people who want closer ties with the European Union.Another official, counter-terrorism spokesman Vladislav Seleznyov, was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying the death toll

See Ukraine on pg 11

Important decisions on restructuring expected

Was summoned for questioning: Police

Seizure of water boostersLocals stage protest against PHE inspection teamChadoora, June 14,: Locals in Kralpora in Central Kashmir’s Chadoora town Saturday staged a massive protest against the field inspection team of Public Health Engineering (PHE) department after the said team arrived in a private vehicle and seized on-line boosters and pipes. Eyewitnesses told CNS that at least five persons who claimed to be the em-ployees from PHE depart-ment arrived in a private vehicle (JK04C-4950) in Kralpora at around 11 in the morning on Saturday. The PHE team entered into a house in absence of any male member where accord-ing to locals they misbe-haved with the females and seized pipes.

See Boosters on pg 11

11 Srinagar, Sunday 15 June 2014 Zabarwan Times

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik Legal Advisor: Syed Reyaz Hussain RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: [email protected] 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

Jaitley

PM

Baraat

Boosters

Police

Accident

Transfer

ASHA

Ukraine

Injured

NC Tral

Srinagar, June 14 : Former chair-man JK Bank, Dr Haseeb Drabu today debunked the hartals and boycotts taking place in the valley as forms of protest.According to a statement issued to KNS, Drabu said these protests were only hurting the Kashmiri people and economy, and were self-defeatist in nature. Drabu was speaking at a seminar on 'Kashmir Youth: Anxieties and Aspirations', organized by Lehar, a non-politi-cal NGO. Drabu questioned why the Kashmiris were thinking of themselves as victims. "We have to move out of the politics of grudge. We have been the greatest civliza-tion in the world. Why are we los-ing our social, cultural, political and economic nationhood," he questioned.In an intellectually stimulating address, Drabu said what was re-quired was a positivist notion of Kashmiri nationalism, and not a rejectionist notion of Kashmi-ri nationalism. "I fail to under-stand this notion of hartals and boycotts. Who are we boycot-ting against? Who does it hurt? Through these hartals, you are only exhibiting your control over the Kashmiri population that has very little choice anyway," he said.On being questioned by a law student that what should be the mode of protest, Drabu said the protest organized in the form of Hakeekat-e-Kashmir was a highly creative protest. The Ha-keekat-e-Kashmir concert, that was organized simultaneously with the Zubin Mehta concert, fo-cussed the attention of the entire country on the real problems of Kashmir. Drabu stated that the genuine, legal entitlements of the Kashmi-ri people which are available to people across the globe as their rights are being seen as the aspi-rations of the people here. He said this was because of governance deficit at various levels through the decades. Drabu highlighted that in Jammu and Kashmir, people aged from 15-30 years account for a stagger-ing 40 per cent of the total popu-lation, compared to an average 30 percentage of the population else-where. "The sheer demographics make youth the most important

segment in the political economy of J&K. No society can afford the marginalization of its young peo-ple."Drabu further noted that by vir-tue of sheer numbers, the youth of the state should and can decide the future of the nation. "No na-tion can prosper unless its youth are politically empowered, social-ly responsible, ethically aware and economically independent citizens. To reach there, we must educate, employ, engage and em-power our youth," he said.Drabu said that there is a dis-connect between individual and collective aspirations in every sphere of life. "We have lost con-fidence in our capabilities, in our creativity, in our comprehension to run our affairs," he said. This scenario, Drabu said, was largely so because we are talking about ways that portray all of us Kash-miris as "victims". This defensive attitude, he said, has made us incapable of thinking positively and acting honestly. The prob-lem, Drabu said, is not about jobs but careers which will build a nation. "In the gap between these anxieties and aspirations, a few generations have been lost. An-other generation, which is right now in the prime of its youth, is also threateningly close to being lost. Drabu asserted his demand for a society where a job will not be a "naukri" funded by the Govern-ment of India, where a business will not be an enterprise prof-itable because of a government subsidy. A venture will not be successful only because of tax and electricity concessions.Leading social activist Shakeel Qalandar, who also addressed the seminar, said that protests like Hakeekat-e-Kashmir were diffi-cult because the state government did not give permission for it till 9 pm the previous day. "Even on the day of Hakeekat-e-Kashmir, we were not allowed to move into the designated area till an hour be-fore the programme was to be held. In that last one hour, we set up the stage, the banners and the other infrastructure for the protest," he said.With regard to the shrinking space for civil liberties in Kashmir, Qa-landar said that even now, civil

society representatives have been seeking permission for peaceful sit-in protests from the state gov-ernment, but it is not being grant-ed. Qalandar highlighted that there is a dire need to segregate the socio-economic aspirations of youth from their political aspi-rations. This had to be done after devising a methodology that does not override these aspirations, but augments both.Prof Saddiq Wahid, former Vice Chancellor of Islamic University of Science and Technology, presided over the seminar. He said that the loss of opportunity had bred anger among the youth. "We keep em-ploying retired people back in the universities. Don't we have a tal-ent pool of qualified youth to draw from," he questioned. Speaking on the occasion, Prof Gull Wani, Director, Centre of Kashmir Studies in Kashmir University, said that those who make peaceful revolutions impossible will make violent revolutions inevitable. Prof Wani said it is logical for any society which has gone through turmoil to think about the aspi-rations and anxieties of its youth, who have remained at the fore-front of its numerous struggles. "Youth and their legitimate griev-ances are a subject matter of de-bate for policy makers and polit-ical leaders not only in Kashmir but in the entire south Asia. We cannot imagine a better South Asia without thinking seriously about youth and their position in the polity, economy and society," he said.Youth from Kashmir University, colleges in the city and in the re-gion attended the seminar in huge numbers and had a dynamic inter-action with the speakers. Ms Rajni Shaleen Chopra, Director of NGO Lehar, said the social contract be-tween the Kashmir youth and the policy makers is of prime impor-tance now. "This contract can be possible in a society which is resil-ient and committed to justice. On the positive side, there is rise of an assertive civil society and vibrant mass media which can be helpful in rebuilding society and other institutions. All key stakeholders – the political class, policy planners and state managers will have to contribute in helping crafting this social contract," she said. (KNS)

Vohra and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Mr. Jaitely was received by N.N. Vohra, Governor, at the Raj Bhavan. Jaitley and the Governor dis-cussed various issues relating to the rapid growth and development of the State. Later in the day, the Governor and the Defence Minister held discussions with General Bikram Singh, Chief of Army Staff; Lt. Gen. D.S. Hooda, Northern Army Commander; and Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh, GoC XV Corps regarding im-portant matters concerning external and internal se-curity management, a defense ministry spokesman said. Mr Jaitley was briefed by top army officers here about counterinsurgency operations along the Line of Control besides anti infiltration measures being taken to prevent entry of ultras from Paki-stan-Administered of Kashmir.Meanwhile, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah and Mr Jaitley held a one-on-one meeting at Nehru Guest House discussing in detail the security scenario pre-vailing in the state. During the meeting which lasted for over one hour, the two leaders also discussed the current situation on LoC and borders.The matters relating to the preparedness of the State Government to conduct Amarnathji Yatra smoothly also came up for discussion in the meeting. The Chief Minister shared with Jaitley who is also Union Fi-nance Minister certain critical financial matters re-lating to the development plan of Jammu and Kash-mir. Aspects regarding skill development initiatives taken by the State Government also came up for the discussion. On 15 Jun 2014, the Defence Minister is scheduled to visit the forward areas along the Line of Control where he will be interacting with command-ers and troops. He is also scheduled to attend special Unified Headquarters Meeting at Srinagar, said a de-fense ministry spokesman. (KNS)

help the nation. Why should we import defence equip-ment? We must be self sufficient. Why can’t we send our defence equipment to other nations.”The Prime Minister also promised to set up a War Memorial for those who sacrificed their lives for the country.He said this government has come with a determina-tion and was committed to implement the “One Rank, One pension” scheme for defence personnel.“Our government has the potential to match anyone in the world and the reason for this is the capability of our soldiers who give us the strength to do so,” he said in his address, adding that the country intends to move forward in the same manner, without lowering its eyes.He also called for setting up a Naval NCC network across the country that could prepare a dedicated force of soldiers which could help the Navy emerge as a big force in the coming times.Arriving on board the warship in a Sea King chopper, the Prime Minister was given the ceremonial guard of honour by the Navy and was briefed about the war-ship.He also sat in a MIG 29 aircraft and had a feel of the combat fighter on the ship. The Prime Minister spent a few hours on board the 44,500-tonne warship, his first visit to any defence fa-cility.The Prime Minister was accompanied by Minister of State for Defence Rao Inderjit Singh, National Securi-ty Adviser Ajit Doval, Defence Secretary R K Mathur and Naval Chief Admiral Robin Dhowan.During his stay on the ship, acquired from Russia for over Rs 15,000 crore, Modi witnessed ‘air power demonstration’ by various naval aircraft, including MiG 29K, Sea Harriers, P 8I Long Range Maritime Pa-trol Anti-Submarine Warfare aircraft, TU 142M and IL-38SD maritime surveillance planes along with Ka-mov and Sea King helicopters.He also witnessed high-speed manoeuvres by the Na-vy’s Western Fleet ships including aircraft carrier INS Viraat, Delhi-class destroyers and Talwar-class frigates.The air demonstrations were, however, hampered by heavy rain.Modi interacted with the senior officers and the crew.The deal for the aircraft carrier was signed during the previous NDA regime in 2004 and the ship will be ded-icated to the nation after a gap of ten years.The vessel had joined the Indian Navy on November 16, 2013. The ship was earlier commissioned by the then defence minister A K Antony in Russia.Vikramaditya, a floating airfield, has an overall length of about 284 metres and a maximum beam of about 60 metres, stretching as much as three football fields put together.Standing about 20 storeys tall from the keel to the highest point, the ship has a total of 22 decks and car-ries 1,600 personnel. With her complete stock of provisions, she is capable of sustaining herself at sea for about 45 days.It is a modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier which was purchased by India from Russia for the Indian Navy in 2013. The ship has been renamed in honour of Vikramadi-tya, a legendary 1st century BC emperor.Originally built as Baku and commissioned in 1987, the carrier served with the Soviet (until the dissolu-tion of the Soviet Union) and Russian Navies before being decommissioned in 1996 as it was too expensive to operate.

in the list of probables for the upcoming assembly elec-tions have shown reluctance because of the sense of neglect and a wave of anti incumbency among the peo-ple. “The party is yet to take a final call on the issue. Another important factor which will prove detrimen-tal for the party interests is the infighting within the constituencies between party leaders who are seeking mandates for the upcoming assembly elections. But I think the party will resolve all their differences ami-cably,” said a senior leader of the party wishing not to be named. Pertinently, the party witnessed a major change in its organizational hierarchy when Ali Muhammad Sagar was nominated as the party’s General Secre-tary by the NC leadership. Sagar relieved the ailing NC’s General Secretary Sheikh Nazir.Sources in the party told KNS that a massive re-structuring in the party is on card and heads can roll at provincial and district levels due to a humil-iating defeat of the party in the recently held Lok Sabha elections. (KNS)

book. He said it was distressing that Muslims have put Quranic guidance and teaching on the back burn-er which has become the main cause of suffering and anguish for them. While concluding his sermon, Mir-waiz along with thousands of people asked Allah for forgiveness from sins, prayed for well being of the Umaah in general and for the Muslims of Jammu and Kashmir in particular. (KNS)

The locals alleged that these employees acted like goon and even tried to overpower a female who was resisting their move. “The PHE department instead of taking action against hotel and guest house own-ers raid the houses of poor people who already face hardships on account of water scarcity,” the protes-tors said adding that PHE department has no right to harass people and send their men in private vehicles. Pertinently, the PHE last week constituted a Task Force on the instructions of its Chief Engineer Muzaf-far Ahmed Lankar to end the misuse of potable water. (CNS) (Photographs attached)

“I appeal them not to accuse me falsely. I am not in-volved in any unlawful activity anymore.”The police categorically denied Lone’s allegations and said he was summoned for questioning.“We had some input and that is why we called him for questioning but later he was freed,” Mr. Sachin, the Deputy Superintendent of Police (Operations) told GNS. (GNS)

Kankushi and Muhammad Ashraf Kankushi resi-dents of Hilal Colony Zakoora. The wife of Shabir Ahmed namely Shabnam Ara ac-cording to family sources is battling for life. “She is critical while her daughter Jumera is safe and sound,” the uncle of one of the deceased told CNS. Reports said soon after the accident the driver of the truck fled from the spot. “We have launched a hunt to nab the driver. The truck has been seized by us and we have registered a case vide FIR number 64/2014 under section 304 A in this regard,” a police official said. (CNS)

him today,” they told CNS alleging that in all the scams that surfaced in recent past in the depart-ment was all the doing of the top officials. They warned that if officials will not change their attitude, the employees will come on the roads. A CA&PD official told CNS that it was a routine transfer. (CNS)

centrally sponsored scheme which was introduced in Kashmir in the year 1975. Since then thousands of workers and helpers are working on meager monthly salaries which are even not enough to buy morning bread,” District President Kupwara Rafiqa Lolabi told CNS adding that and Asha worker who works round the clock gets rupees six hundred monthly while help-ers are getting paltry amount of rupees 300 monthly. She said if the state government could enhance the re-tirement age then why it is shying away to address the genuine issues of ASHA workers. (CNS)

was preliminary and was being verified by investiga-tors.The Russian-built Il-76 is a four-engine jet that can be used to transport heavy gear and people.The prosecutor’s office said a criminal investigation had been opened under anti-terrorism laws.

who were boarding in Swift car were injured. All the injured were shifted to Sub District Hospital Pattan for treatment where one of the injured Mas-roor Ahmad Bhat son of Mohammad Ramzan resi-dent of Banday Mohalla, Handwara succumbed to his injuries while other two injured persons were shifted to SKIMS Soura for further treatment. Po-lice has registered a case in this regard.In another accident, an unknown vehicle hit and in-jured a pedestrian Wali Mohammad Sain resident of Androoth, Rajouri at Sangrama, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Tarzoo Sopore. The injured was shifted to District Hospital Baramulla for treatment where he succumbed to his injuries. Police has reg-istered a case in this regard.An excursion bus bearing registration number JK05B/7099 turned turtle at Tangnar, in the juris-diction of Police Station Khansahib, Budgam. In this accident 34 school children of Markazi Fallahi Khawateen (Nari Niketan) who were on way back from Doodh Pathri, Budgam to Kupwara were in-jured. All the injured were shifted to Sub District Hospital Khansahib where from two of them were shifted to Bone and Joints Hospital Srinagar and five to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar. Police has regis-tered a case in this regard. (KNS)

proceedings under section 174 CrPC initiated. Meanwhile Farooq Ahmad Mahajan son of Moham-mad Sidiq resident of Bagwanpora Barbarshah fell from 3rd floor of Block D Estates Quarters Chanap-ora, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Sadder in suspicious circumstances and died on spot. Police has registered a case under section 174 in this regard. In an another incident a girl (name with held) resident of Gawran, in the jurisdiction of Po-lice Station Kokernag, Anantnag sprinkled k-oil upon her and set herself ablaze, resulting in burn injuries to her. She was shifted to District Hospital Anantnag for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard. However, three missing boys were traced out who were missing from 7th of this month. In continuation to missing of three boys of Darul Uloom Bilaliya Branch Khim-ber on 7th of this month, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Zakoora, all the three boys were traced at Mir Bazar Kulgam. (KNS)

Drabu debunks hartals, boycotts in valley

Says they only hurt Kashmiri people, economy

Srinagar, June 14: (GNS) On the directions of Mr. N. N. Vohra, who is also the Chairman of Shri Am-arnathji Shrine Board Mr. R. K. Gupta, Chief Executive Officer of the Shrine Board, inspected the Chandanwari to Sheshnag track and took stock of to-date status of the arrangements being made for this year’s Shri Amarnathji Yatra, which is scheduled to commence on 28th June, an official spokes-man said here. The spokesman in a statement issued to GNS said on his way to Sheshnag, Mr. Gupta directed CEO, Pahalgam Development Au-

thority, to ensure ur-gent removal of snow and debris from the tracks. Taking serious note of slow pace of work, Mr. Gupta asked the PDA to deploy ad-ditional manpower on double shift basis to compensate for the loss of time due to ad-verse weather condi-tions till Mid-May. He said all the Camp Directors deployed with the Shrine Board have been requested to reach their assigned Camps at Chandanwari,

Sheshnag, Panjtarni, Sangam and Holy Cave by 16th of June. “They will supervise all the arrangements and facilities being setup for the pilgrims, and furnish reports to the Shrine Board Control Room on dai-ly basis. These reports will enable the CEO

to take corrective action, includ-ing passing on instructions to the concerned Departments, for early completion of preparatory works,” the spokesman added.

Governor reviews Yatra arrangements

‘Directs further fast tracking track clearance work, positioning of other Yatra arrangements’

Srinagar, June 14: As part of pro-gramme to meet and listen to its customers, J&K Bank held a customer meet at Dak Bungalow Sopore, which was attended by a large number of senior-citizens, valuable customers representing a cross-section of society engaged in horticulture, trade and industry.The meeting was conducted by the bank’s Cluster II of Kashmir (North).The bank’s President M Amin Mir presided over the meeting in presence of Zonal Head (North) M S Kaboo, Vice President A K Pandita, Cluster Head Shahzad Hussain Teli and other officers of The Bank.Speaking on the occasion, Pres-ident M Amin Mir said, “J&K Bank is committed to provide best banking products and services to its various customers across the country.”We understand all your needs, fi-nancial requirements and tailor all our products accordingly, he added.Appreciating the work and dedi-cation of bank staff, the customers

expressed concern over the short-age of manpower in view of con-siderable increase in business at branches.The customers also asked for has-sle free loans and implementation of crop insurance scheme. They also demanded certain measures to be initiated under CSR for Sopore Town.

Responding to the issues raised at the meeting, M Amin Mir assured the gathering that the Bank has already initiated various steps to-wards fulfillment of their demands and will continue to work in this direction.A number of issues were resolved on spot. Cluster Head presented vote of thanks in the end.

J&K Bank holds customer meet in Sopore

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES NEWS SRINAGAR | SUNDAY 15. 06 .2014

SRINAGAR, JUNE 14: To ensure drink-ing water facility to the domestic consum-ers of Srinagar City during the holy month of Ramzan, Minister of State for PHE, Irri-gation and Flood Control Mr. Nazir Ahmad Guerzi Yesterday Late evening conducted surprise visit of PHE Provincial Control Room and took stock it’s functioning.

Two complaints were received from 8 pm to 9.15 pm and the Minister telephoni-cally contacted with the complainants and found that the registered complaints were correct for which the concerned officials of the department had responded expe-ditiously. Mr. Gurezi was satisfied with working of the Unit and asked the con-cerned to ensure the running of the Con-trol Room functional round the clock so that immediate redressal of the grievances of the domestic consumers can be done.

Earlier, the Executive Engineer, City Water Works Division Er. Bilal Rasool briefed the Minister about the function-ing of the Control Room. He informed that numerous complaints and messages has been receiving by the Control Room relat-ing to leakage of pipelines, demands for water tankers from the public and misuse of water.

Later, the Minister inspected Water Treatment Plant Nishat and took stock

of the recent pipe burst restoration mea-sures taken by the department of 600 mm dia meter Cast Iron raw water of the plant at Ishber.The Minister satisfied with the measures taken by the department in restored the raw water supplies to the plant at the short notice. He asked the con-cerned to remain vigilant in future so that

the possibility of damages to the pipe lines is minimized.The employees posted at the Plant put forth some demands including issuance of uniform and construction of rest room within the premises of the Plant.

The Minister gave them a patient hear-ing and assured them that their genuine demands would be looked into.

Gurezi conducts surprise visit of PHE Control Room, Water Treatment Plant Nishat

ANANTNAG, JUNE 14: Un-derscoring the need for time bound completion of ongoing developmental projects espe-cially in rural and hilly areas of the District, the Minister for Tourism, Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir has stressed upon the con-cerned to redouble their efforts for achieving the targets well in time so that the benefits of these projects are percolated to the common masses at the earliest.

Chairing a meeting of the District Officers of various Departments held at Kapran today convened to review the physical and financial achieve-ments registered under vari-ous sectors in this hilly and remote area, the Minister em-phasized the need for effective implementation of Flagship programmes to ensure univer-salization of health, education, road connectivity, power and other basic services in the area. He also called for close coor-dination and improvement in

information flow at all levels among the Departments for maximizing benefits and to achieve stipulated targets un-der the different Schemes.

The Minister asked the concerned authorities for bringing in more reforms in the functioning of their Depart-ments by infusing efficiency, transparency and above all a qualitative change in providing improved basic amenities to the people. He directed for or-ganizing awareness camps and workshops in remote areas to sensitize the people about the benefits of welfare Schemes launched by the government for their welfare.Taking ap-praisal of development works under implementation in area, Mr. Mir asked the officers to ensure hassle-free public ser-vice to the people in remote areas and be at their beck and call at all times to remove their sufferings.The Minister told the officers that the people in remote pockets require more

attention as the government is only means to them for getting necessary succor particularly in the hour of need. He said availability and distribution of essential commodities and fuel should get priority. “Dis-trict Administration should monitor the distribution of essential commodities regu-larly ensuring that the people are receiving supplies without any difficulty”, he said, stress-ing on dumping buffer stock of essential commodities for win-ter months also. Meanwhile, Mr. Mir while interacting with the locals enumerated several measures taken for compre-hensive development of the area. He said, besides upgra-dation of infrastructure under core sectors, the varied tourism potential of the area received focused attention, adding that work on several tourism proj-ects have been already com-pleted, while some projects would be completed this fiscal and many more projects .

SRINAGAR, JUNE 14: The 60th Ex-ecutive Committee and General Council meeting of School Games Federation of India (SGFI) was held here today in which the Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legisla-tive Assembly Mr. Mubarak Gul was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

President, SGFI Padmashree Satpal, Di-rector General Youth Services and Sports Mr. Navin Aggarwal, Secretary General, Dr. Rajesh Mishra, Executive Members of various States and Union Territories of the Country and other officers of YSS depart-ment were present in the meeting.

In his inaugural address, the Speaker lauded the role of SGFI is rendering vol-untary valuable services for organizing sports activities at national Levels. He said the Federation channelize the sports tal-ent of budding youth in the right perspec-tive by involving them in various sports activities. He said that the Federation ex-ploit the talent of the youth by organizing sports activities and enable the players to become ace player of future. These play-

ers bring laurels to the Country and State as well and are capable of handling any service in life, he maintained.

Mr. Gul also appreciated SFGI for organizing sports activities in the Coun-try, saying that organizing such activi-

ties at National levels promotes sports and strengthen the National integration among participants. He said the delegates

on return to their respective places shall play role of Ambassadors of the State. He asked the Director General.

TANGMARG, JUNE 14: Minister for Agriculture Pro-duction Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir today called upon the par-ents to pay due care and at-tention towards their children in their early childhood to pre-vent them from the Autism- a disease leads the children to-wards disability and spectrum abnormal later on.

The Minister was speak-ing at a daylong awareness programme on Autism orga-nized by Department of Social Work, University of Kashmir, here at Town Hall this morn-ing.

The Minister stressed on the Anganwari and Asha Workers to identify the chil-dren suffering from Autism in the State so that possibilities are explored for the provision of better facilities to them. He said that the government will take every possible measure to eradicate such disease from the society once for all. He said that the parents have to pay due care of their kids dur-

ing first five years so that con-trolling measures are initiated well in time.

Mr. Mir said that the hu-man beings have to share

their social responsibilities with the concept of “society first and individual last” needs to be created. He stressed upon the people to contribute for the society so that the con-cept of egalitarian and philan-thropic is evolved.

On the occasion various speakers threw light on prev-alence of Autism Spectrum

Disorders and identifying possible social work, interna-tional therapies with special reference to rural and urban districts of Kashmir.

Besides, Principal, Govern-ment Degree College, Tang-marg, Tehsildar Tangmarg, Zonal Education Officer, Block Medical Officer, Principal In-vestigator, Research Scholars of Kashmir University, An-ganwari and Asha Workers, Health Workers and a large number of students attended the seminar.

G.A.Mir reviews developmental profile of Kapran area

Speaker for comprehensive coaching policy to promote sports

Pay due care to prevent wards from Autism: Mir to parents

SRINAGAR, JUNE 14: Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Mr. Sajjad Ahmad Kichloo, Saturday stressed the need for prioritizing the Industrial Sector so that the people, especially unemployed educated youth could themselves shift their interests from service sector to In-dustrial sector for which various new measures have been taken to make the sector (industries) more profit-able and accessible to all.

The Minister, who is also chair-man of Jammu and Kashmir Indus-tries Limited (JKI), was addressing its 150th Board of Directors meeting held here today.

The Minister, on the occasion, an-nounced release of 6th pay commis-sion in favour of the employees of the Jammu and Kashmir Industries Lim-ited with effect from June 1st, 2014.

Mr. Kichloo said that a compre-hensive project to the tone of Rs. 60.91 crore have been prepared for up-gradation and modernization of various projects which included

Government Silk Factory, Rajbagh, Government Woollen Mills, Bemina, Government Joinery Mills Pamp-ore and Government Joinery Mills Jammu. He said that the revival plan has been made with high expertise to enable these units worthy of sus-taining on viable lines.The Minister said JKI is the most prestigious Public

Sector Enterprise of the state which has a huge asset base in the form of built-up infrastructure, machinery and landed properties, adding that the corporation was one of the major employment providers in the state. He, however, enjoined upon all con-cerned to ensure proper dissemina-tion of schemes at grass root level

and simplify procedures to the lay-man’s access.

The action taken report of deci-sions taken in the previous Board meetings were also reviewed in the meeting. Financial commissioner I&C, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai in-formed the board that detailed stud-ies have been got conducted by ex-

perts to upgrade the prestigious units of JKI and consultants of International Repute have prepared detailed proj-ect reports of Government Woolen Mills Bemina, and Government Silk factory Raj bagh.Principal Secretary, Planning and Development, Mr. B.R. Sharma said that the products of JKI, particularly Silken and Woolen fab-rics provide huge market not only within the state but in the country also.Earlier, Managing Director J&K Industries Mr. Javaid Iqbal gave a detailed resume about the activities being carried out in the Corporation.During the meeting various other issues were also discussed and re-solved on- the- spot by giving formal decisions by the Board.Among others, Financial Commissioner Industries and Commerce, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Principal Secretary, Planning and Development, Mr. B. R. Sharma, Special Secretary I&C, Mrs Dilshad Khan and Special Secretary Forest Department Miss Shally Rajan also attended the meeting.

LEH, JUNE 14- Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh in an effortto make Pashmina and Handloom sectors more comprehensive and profitable in Leh held a meeting with Union Secretary, Ministry of Tex-tiles Madam ZohraChatterji and top level officers of Cen-tral Wool Development Board (CWDB) Union Ministry of Textiles at Grand Dragon Hotel, Leh here today. Deliberating in detail about the immense potential of Pashmina in Ladakh, Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), RigzinSpalber said that Pashmina Wool Development Schemes under IWIDP of Central Wool Development Board (CWDB) has proved very beneficial for Leh as this scheme in a very short period, through its assistance has encouraged the migrated nomads of Changthang to go back to their homeland. He said that we could not have controlled the mortality rate of Sheep and goats during heavy snowfall in the month of January and February2013 iffodder supplements were not distributed timely to the nomads under CWDB scheme. Advocating various pro-motional and developmental schemes under CWDB, CEC requested Madam ZohraChatterji to provide more assis-tance in variety of ways focusing value addition of pash-mina products which will not only boost the economy of Changthang area, but entire economy of Ladakh. The meeting after a detail power point presentation by DSHO Dr. Mohd Sharif about snow crisis in Changthang last year and progress report of Pashmina Wool Develop-ment Schemes for the year 2013-14.

Div Com inaugurates camp, donates blood

SRINAGAR, JUNE 14: A blood donation camp was or-ganized at Lal Ded Hospital on the occasion of ‘World Blood Donors Day’. This years’ theme was “Safe Blood for Saving Mothers”. The Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir Mr Shailnder Kumar was the chief guest and inaugurated the camp. He also donated blood on the occasion. Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Principal, GMC, Project Director, SAP&CS, Medical Superintendent, Lal Ded Hospital, Head Department of Gyneacology and other senior doctors of the hospital were also present on the occasion.Divisional Commissioner, while speak-ing on the occasion, said that people donate money and other things but they have to donate blood which can save human lives. He appreciated those volunteers, po-lice personnel, who donated blood and asked them to keep up this spirits alive for serving the humanity.The Deputy Commissioner while expressing his views said that man has been created for the help of others and underlined the need for organizing more such camps for the benefit of needy patients.Other dignitaries also spoke on the occasion and threw light on the impor-tance of blood donation and asked people to come for-ward for this noble cause.

Measures afoot to make industrial sector profitable, accessible to all: Kichloo

Italian Dehiring Plant at Leh an anvil: Union Secretary MoT

Blood donation camp held at LD hospital

JKI 150th Board of Directors meet held

60th Executive Committee & General Council of SGFI Meet held

PM Modi inducts INS Vikramaditya into Navy, dedicates it to nation

Eye on the defence sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi set sail on the INS Vikrama-ditya off the Goa coast in the Arabian Sea on Saturday, dedicating the country's largest warship and aircraft carrier to the nation. He formally inducted the vessel commissioned by the previous Congress government into the Indian Navy.

A tweet from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) quoted Modi as saying: "We need to give immense importance to latest technology. This will help the nation."

A day after meeting defence officials in New Delhi to take stock of India's war pre-paredness, Modi is scheduled to witness a host of exercises by the frontline warships and aircraft of the Navy, which has suffered a string of accidents of late.

On his first defence outing after taking over as the Prime Minister on May 26, Modi emphasised that India must be "self-sufficient" in manufacturing defence equipment.

"Why should we import defence equipment? We must be self-sufficient. Why can't we send our defence equipment to other nations," another PMO tweet quoted Modi as saying.

The PM arrived at Dabolim airport in the morning. He was accompanied by Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar, a TV channel reported.

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/ OPINION

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

No Govt, no administration-

everything in shambles

It is now more than six months that any developmental activity as such has taken place in the

valley. The depleted roads, lanes, by-lanes are a testimony to this stand still situation. What a pity that only three or four days back some men and machines appeared on Srinagar-Anantnag National High-way, but again vanished in thick air leaving this national highway in its pathetic condition adding to the woes of daily commuters and tour-ists. Perhaps authorities have gone in hibernation, the construction agency has deserted this widening four lane project. The politicians in power have mentally conceded the defeat after they got their share of booty. It is not only this project, to-tal standstill in the developmental field can be seen anywhere in the valley. It is the month of June and after this there are barely 4 months of working season left in the valley. If nothing is done till date, nothing should be expected in the coming months which will be mostly con-sumed in the state assembly elec-tioneering. With that the financial year will end benefiting only cor-rupt officials and politicians leav-ing common people high and dry. It is really agonizing to see people facing all odds of life, braving hur-dle after hurdle in their day-to-day life. The politicians at the helm of affairs are taking sadistic pleasure out of it, one cannot understand whom to approach and ask for mit-igation of the problems faced by the common people. The ministers are making hay while the sun shines, the bureaucrats have become vul-tures to complete the fleecing of Aam Admi. When one goes in the field, there is no presence of any authority which could come to the rescue of the needy. Take the exam-ple of present paddy season, which is ending by the 3rd week of June, but it is shocking that several areas are without water for irrigation due to the negligence of revenue, irriga-tion, power development and oth-er related departments. The work of desilting of nallahs, kohls and brooks has been started just a few days back or has not started at all, thus frustrating the farming com-munity who are wondering as to when they will get water to irrigate their fields and start paddy plan-tation. The health care is in sham-bles, the education department has touched all time low, the agricul-ture and horticulture departments do nothing except supplying spuri-ous fertilizers, chemicals and seeds. The PHE department has become rotten and obsolete, supplying the contaminated water and causing a gradual kill of consumers. What to do when the rulers get ruled by their greed and ill desires.

India’s First Indigenous Aircraft Carrier - INS Vikrant I

ndia’s first indigenously built Air Craft Carrier (Project -71) christened as INS Vikrant was launched at Cochin Shipyard Limited. With the launch, In-

dia joined the elite club of nations in the world capable of designing and constructing an Air Craft Car-rier. The keel of the ship was laid on February 28, 2009. The launch-ing of the ship in four years time is a creditable achievement. INS Vikrant became the Country’s most prestigious and largest warship project.Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), the Country’s premier shipbuilding yard has been mandated to build the indigenous Air Craft Carrier, for the Indian Navy. The basic design of the Air Craft Carrier was carried out by the Indian Navy’s Directorate of Naval Design (DND). The design was further developed into a detailed design by the design team of Cochin Shipyard Limited.DND has successfully designed over 17 different classes of warships, to which around 90 ships have already been built within the country. De-signing of the Vikrant, at almost 40,000 tonnes speaks of the matur-ing of the capabilities of DND and represents a feather in the cap of the designers particularly as it is the first aircraft carrier of its size in the world with some unique features such as Gas Turbine PropulsionAt the launch, marking the end of Phase- I of the project, the imposing ramp of the 37,500 tonne Short Take off but Assisted Recovery (STOB-AR) Carrier boasted the indigenous design and build capabilities of the country. The ship has attained its designed length of about 260 m and is almost at its maximum breadth of 60 m. The main landing strip is ready. Over 80% of the structure, containing about 2300 compartments has been fabricated, over 75% has been erected, all the major machin-ery, such as the two LM2500 Gas Turbines developing a total power of 80 MW, the diesel alternators ca-

pable of producing about 24 MW and the main gear box have been fitted. Soon after Vikrant floated perfectly upright, she was launched out into the Ernakulam Channel in a pontoon as-sisted precision manoeuvre. Vikrant was moved out of the building dock to be positioned in the refitting dock where the next Phase of outfitting will be completed The Aircraft Carrier would carry a complement of mix of fixed wing and rotary aircrafts in its hanger.The Aircraft Carrier is a mini float-ing city, with a flight deck area cov-ering the size of two football fields. The length of cabling would be 2700 KM which, if laid end to end would stretch from Kochi to Delhi. The ship would have a complement of 1600 personnel.Vikrant will be capable of operating an aircraft mix of the Russian MiG-29K and LCA (Navy) fighters being developed indigenously by HAL. Its helicopter component will include the Kamov 31 and the indigenous-ly developed ALH helicopters. The ship’s ability to sense and control a large air space around it will be en-abled by modern C/D band Early Air Warning Radar, V/UHF Tactical Air Navigational and Direction Find-ing systems, jamming capabilities over the expected Electro Magnet-

ic (EM) environment and Carrier Control Approach Radars to aid air operations. Long Range Surface to Air Missile (LR SAM) systems with Multi-Function Radar (MFR) and Close- In Weapon System (CIWS) will form the protective suite of the ship. All weapon systems onboard the carrier will be integrated through an indigenous Combat Management System (CMS), being manufactured by Tata Power systems. The ship’s integration with Navy’s Network Centric Operations will provide force multiplication.The steel has come from SAIL’s plants in Rourkela in Orissa, Boka-ro in Jharkand and Bhilai in Chat-tisgarh; the Main Switch Board, steering gear and water tight hatches have been manufactured by Larsen and Toubro in its plants in Mumbai and Talegaon; the high capacity air conditioning and re-frigeration systems have been manufactured in Kirloskar’s plants in Pune; most pumps have been supplied by Best and Crompton, Chennai; Bharat Heavy Engineer-ing Limited (BHEL) is supplying the Integrated Platform Manage-ment System (IPMS); the massive gear box is supplied by Elecon in Gujarat; the tens of thousands of electrical cable is supplied by Nic-

co industries in Kolkata; Kolkata is also where the ship’s anchor chain cable is manufactured.The launch marks the end of the first phase of the construction of the carrier with nearly 75% of the vessel structure, including the ski-jump, in place. Vikrant will now enter the second phase of construc-tion which will see the outfitting of the ship, fitment of various weap-ons and sensors, integration of the gigantic propulsion system and integration of the aircraft com-plex (with the assistance of M/s NDB of Russia). The ship will then undergo extensive trials before she is handed over to the Indian Navy by around 2016-17.The Ship is designed to survive in the event of attack by nuclear, bio-logical or chemical weapons.The project was fraught with many challenges right from the special steel used in construction to the fabrication and erection of the large blocks and lowering of the huge main equipment. These challenges were overcome by the innovative and creative work-force of CSL The shipyard has developed a number of weld pro-cedures and introduced automa-tion to ensure quality of welding and increase productivity. The yard has adopted techniques to in-crease production rates by going in for grand assembly of blocks and pre-outfitting to the extent pos-sible. Cochin Shipyard today is the best performing shipyard in India. The Shipyard had built and deliv-ered over 90 ships since its incep-tion. The largest ship built in the Country has been constructed by CSL. In the last decade the compa-ny has built and exported over 40 ships to International owners. The indigenous Aircraft Car-rier designed by DND is one of the most prestigious warship project of the Indian Navy. Indian Navy has now changed the status from buy-er’s navy to a builder’s navy.

Textiles Exports: Ways Ahead Playing the role of the most important con-

stituent of the manufacturing sector in In-dia mainly due to its contribution towards employment, the Indian textile and clothing

sector adds about 14 per cent to industrial produc-tion and four per cent to Gross Domestic Product. Its current share in total exports is around 11 per cent. The textile export basket consists of readymade gar-ments, cotton textiles, man-made fiber textiles, wool and woolen goods, silk, handicrafts, coir and jute. During the XIth Plan period, exports during the first four years showed varying trends. The year 2008-2009 saw a decline in exports mainly on account of the global recessionary conditions and financial cri-sis. Exports during fiscal year 2009-2010 marked an increase of 6.92 per cent as the world recovered from the recessionary conditions. The recovery contin-ued in the years 2010-11 and 2011-12 before plateau-ing out in 2012-13. The Ministry of Commerce sug-gests ways to accelerate the pace of export growth, if the country has to meet with the obligations arising out of a Balance of Trade (BoT) deficit and Current Account Deficit (CAD), a target of USD 45.50 for the textile and clothing sector by 2013-2014 should be met at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 27.72 per cent during the three year period i.e. 2011-12 to 2013-14.The trends during the Eleventh Five Year Plan show that against an expected target of achieving USD 55 billion by the end of the 11th Plan, exports from the textile and clothing sector are likely to reach around USD 32.35 billion. The labour intensive garment sector needs to be encouraged to increase exports and also seek higher investments. While efforts are being made separately through the National Fiber Policy to enhance the production of man-made fiber yarns and fabrics, there is also a need to encourage exports of man-made fiber textiles in all their value added forms. On the other hand, with India having the strength of home grown cotton and a vibrant spinning industry, export of cotton textiles in their value added form as yarns, fabrics and home textiles will find customers around the world.To achieve the target of USD 65 billion by the end of the Twelfth Five Year Plan, there is a need to put in place differentiated strategies for different prod-ucts considering the vast diversity in product range and fiber content in the sector. Deliberations across various relevant sectors have put on the drawing table different strategies to meet the projected ex-port targets. To achieve the projected export growth targets, the need of the hour is to provide adequate confidence to the exporters to substantially enhance their market presence in traditional markets and aggressively seek out new markets. At the same time, it is pertinent to continue with the existing incentive schemes such as duty drawback, tax ben-efits, and interest subvention scheme. Improvement

in infrastructure related to exports, reducing trans-action costs, and providing full refund of all indirect taxes and levies, form the three crucial pillars of the strategic reforms.A renewed thrust needs to be given to Technology Upgradation with special emphasis on eco-friendly products and green technology. Textile Research As-sociations should also be upgraded and encouraged to seek collaboration with overseas testing laborato-ries and other like minded institutions.The mulling process also came up with detailed sec-toral strategies for achieving the desired targets in different product export sectors. It is to be noted that while Readymade Garments is the single largest contributor to exports in the textile sector, it is also this sector only which offers the scope for maximum growth. While a substantial increase in production capacities is required on one hand, a huge potential also exists on the other hand for increasing exports by undertaking capacity building in the sector.Indian man-made fiber textile industry has a large production base which is complemented by self-suf-ficient raw material production base. To meet the objectives of high growth and increasing the compet-itiveness of Indian man-made fibers, it is necessary to negotiate with important regions of the world like Latin American MERCOSUR countries, Egypt and Morocco in WANA region, Russia and Uzbekistan in CIS countries, to reduce the tariff structure. In-dia has an inherent advantage in the cotton sector owing to the abundant availability of raw materi-al, long tradition of craftsmanship and design and presence across the entire value chain. The export competitiveness of this sector is very significantly affected by the cost and reliability of power supply, logistics and transaction costs. In order to boost the export performance, it is essential that the National Fiber Policy should target enhanced competitive-ness of cotton fiber, as well as ensure most judicious and efficient utilisation of the country’s strength for sustainable development of all the sub-sectors of the cotton economy through backward and forward integration.The efficiency of the jute industry can be given a boost by providing sufficient incentive to the industry for large scale adoption of available new technology machines. Streamlining the exist-ing Jute Technology Mission Schemes to improve its delivery system can also encourage production and bring improvement in the quality of raw jute. In order to encourage farmers to adopt sericulture practices, there is a need to increase the thrust on developing silkworm races that are not only resis-tant to drought or change in climatic conditions, but are also disease-resistant, and high-yielding. At the same time, it would be important to design time-bound, result-oriented incentivised schemes for better implementation of research and development activities. There is also a need for the introduction

of advanced systems of quality-based pricing mech-anism for cocoons for appropriate and better price realisation by the cocoon growers. In order to make the wool sector globally competitive, it is important to rationalise import duty on raw wool and on wool-len yarn and fabrics. On the non-fiscal side, efforts should be focused on implementing programmes for producing highland wool in the hilly tracts of the country. The industry should undertake collab-orative research projects with the major wool pro-ducing countries, with necessary support from the Government. The research should focus on breed improvement and overcoming the diseases in sheep breeds and producing disease-resistant stud rams.The indigenous development of speciality fibers is highly dependent upon the demand for the fibers in the domestic market from the downstream indus-try, i.e. the technical textile manufacturers. There-fore, besides a push to the speciality fibers, it is also necessary to focus on technical textile products with a view to increase their consumption and pro-duction in India. The Government can mull over a plan to enable Indian or foreign companies to set up manufacturing facilities for speciality fibers, there-by strengthening the raw material base for Indian technical textile industry. Incubation centres could also be set up for transfer of technology and accep-tance of innovative technologies by the industry. In order to boost the consumption of technical textile in India, the Government should increase aware-ness about the usage and benefits of these products.The data from the Textile Ministry shows that during April-May 2013, apart from an upward trend in the total cloth production, almost all sub-sectors of the textile industry showed positive growth. On the other hand, the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS), since its inception on April 1, 1999, has propelled investment of more than Rs. 243721 crores. During 2012-13, the figure for the funds al-located and disbursement made under TUFS stood at Rs. 2,323.03 crores and Rs. 2,151.35 crores respec-tively. The Planning Commission has now approved an allocation of Rs. 11,952.80 crore for the 12th Five Year Plan. The Restructured TUFS is also expected to trigger additional investments of approximately Rs. 1,50,000 crore during the 12th Five Year Plan. Earlier this year in April, the Ministry launched 21 New Textile Parks approved under Scheme for Inte-grated Textile Parks (SITP). Out of the 21 new parks, six are in Maharashtra, four in Rajasthan, two each in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and one each in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tripura, Karnataka, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kash-mir. So far, 750 units have been registered with the Ministry as technical textile manufacturing units for availing 10 per cent capital subsidy with a total investment in proposed machineries to the tune of approximately Rs. 4289.9172 crores.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

To the man who only has a hammer, everything he encounters begins to

look like a nail.Abraham MaslowWilliam Shakespare

Srinagar, Sunday 15 June 2014