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Vol No: XXII Issue No. 44 20.02.2017 (Monday) Daily Jammu Tawi Price ` 2/- Pages-12 Regd. No. JK|306|2014-16
INSI
DE 3
Govt indifferent to people'sproblems: Congress
Underlining the hardships faced bypeople in due to lackadaisical attitudeof the government, former DeputyChief Minister Tara Chand said dueto ineffective and poor...
5 7JKAC holds meeting,discuss various issues
A team of Jammu and KashmirAgainst Corruption (JKAC) held ameeting with the youth of DistrictRamban at Al Fallah WelfareFoundation Banihal, today....
Steering committee of CUCETholds meeting
A meeting of the Steering Committeeof the CUCET-2017 consortiumcomprising 11 Central Universitiesfrom across the country was held atGulmarg on Saturday. ...
northlinesDate Min Temp Max Temp Weather
20-Feb 15.0 23.0 Thunderstorm with rain21-Feb 13.0 24.0 Generally cloudy skywith possibility of rain or Thunderstorm or Duststorm22-Feb 12.0 25.0 Mainly Clear sky
3 DAY'S FORECAST SRINAGARDate Min Temp Max Temp Weather20-Feb 3.0 11.0 Rain or Snow21-Feb 2.0 12.0 Generally cloudy skywith possibility of rain or Thunderstorm or Duststorm22-Feb 1.0 13.0 Partly cloudy sky
3 DAY'S FORECAST JAMMU
CM meetsannoyedministers, nooutcome SRINAGAR, FEB 19
The stalemate caused dueto the resignation of twosenior PDP ministers whosubmitted theirresignations on Fridayfrom the Cabinetcontinued as they metChief Minister MehboobaMufti separately inSrinagar.While Basharat Bukharimet the Chief Ministertoday, Imran Ansari had ameeting with Mehboobalate Saturday. P2
Air Asia launchesSrinagarOperationsSRINAGAR, FEB 19
Low cost airline carrierAir-Asia started itsoperations here from todaywith the launch of itsmorning and eveningflights daily between Delhiand Srinagar.The inaugural flight fromNew Delhi today reachedat the SrinagarInternational Airport at 10am. Another flight to NewDelhi was also seen off bysoon after.The airline is also planningto connect Srinagar tomany other destinations inthe country in comingdays. P2
IN BRIEF
NL CORRESPONDENTNEW DELHI, FEB 19
The air Indians breathe is turningmore toxic by the day and anaverage of two deaths take placedaily due to air pollution, says anew study.According to medical journal TheLancet, over a million Indians dieevery year due to air pollution andsome of the worst polluted citiesof the world are in India.The study released this week butbased on 2010 data estimates thatglobally 2.7-3.4 million pretermbirths may be associated withPM2.5 exposure and South Asia isthe worst hit accounting for 1.6
million pre-term births.The study says causes of airpollution and climate change areintricately linked and needed to betackled together.The Lancet concludes that climatechange posed both a "potentiallycatastrophic risk to humanhealth", while conversely being"the greatest global healthopportunity of the 21st century" ifthe right steps are taken.The smog over northern India isextracting a heavy toll, everyminute two lives are lost in Indiadue to ambient air pollution, thestudy published in The Lancetsays.
Further, according an estimate bythe World Bank, this wouldamount to a whopping USD 38billion loss in income towardslabour in India.Air pollution has also emerged asthe deadliest form of pollutionand the fourth leading risk factorfor premature deaths worldwide,it says.Recently, 48 leading scientistsreleased the study and they findthat Patna and New Delhi theworst polluted cities of the worldfor PM 2.5 levels or the fineparticulate matter that hurts theheart most.The study notes that a broader
evidence base on interrelatedhealth and climate change trendswill notably help demonstrateclear co-benefits of action.An estimated 18,000 people dieevery day due to air pollutionexposure, making it the world'slargest single environmentalhealth risk.The World Bank in turn estimatesit costs the global economy USD225 billion a year in related lostlabour income.Contradicting some of the Indianreports, The Lancet says coal firedpower plants contribute to 50 percent of the ambient air pollution.Minister of State for
Environment, Forest and ClimateChange Anil Madhav Daverecently admitted in Parliamentthat the country spends a mere Rs7 crore annually on monitoring airpollution for a vast country ofIndia's size with a 1.3 billionpopulation.He had also said no credible studyto quantify number of people whohave developed lung and allieddiseases or number of deathsdirectly as a result of air pollutionis available.Science and Technology MinisterHarsh Vardhan, a trainedphysician himself, says,"Pollution when it starts affecting
lungs especially in little childrencan be a killer, it is like a slowpoison and there is no reason forme not to be worried, a lot hasbeen done, but still a lot thatneeds to be done."Meanwhile, called The LancetCountdown, this study will reportannually in The Lancet.With inputs from across theworld, some 16 institutions areacademic partners of theinitiative, including UniversityCollege London, TsinghuaUniversity and the Centre forClimate & Security among others.This is special collaboration withthe World P2
2 Indians die every minute due to air pollution: Study
NL CORRESPONDENTSRINAGAR, FEB 19 (KNS)
There were as many as 670developmental projectscosting rupees one crore orabove which had overshottheir scheduled completiondates due to which the stateexchequer has lost around1900 crores.The official documents inpossession reveals that theincomplete projects had atotal sanctioned cost ofrupees 3100 croresapproximately and an extraamount of rupees 1901.52crores had been expended onthese incomplete projectsand those are still notachieved completion.Furthermore, in respect ofsix projects of Public WorksDepartment (PWD), 41projects of PHE and sixprojects of PDD divisions,the cost was revisedupwards by a whoppingrupees 224.92 crores.However, there were nospecific reasons given overthe revising of the costs ofthe pending projects.The documents reveal thatfor public works in Jammuregion of the state, thenumber of incompleteprojects was 574, sanctionedat the cost of rupees 2452.69crores, The cost was laterrevised to the tune of rupees2518.93 crores, resulting the
extra expenditure of rupees1328.10 crores.In Power DevelopmentDepartment Jammu, thetotal incomplete projectswere 30 for which rupees525.29 crores weresanctioned. Owing to theincompletion of theseprojects, their costs werelater revised to rupees655.53 crores, resulting inan extra expenditure ofrupees 401.16 crores.In Public Health
Engineering Jammu, thetotal number of incompleteprojects was 56 in number.These projects weresanctioned at the cost ofrupees 81.92 crores. Thecost of these projects wasrevised to rupees 110.36,hence the extra expenditureincurred upon these projectsof PHE was 69.63 crorerupees.In the department ofIrrigation and Flood ControlKashmir, there were 11
incomplete projects,sanctioned at the cost of77.48 crore rupees.Meanwhile, be it theconstruction of roads,bridges or building powerinfrastructure, delay hasbecome synonymous to thefunctioning of governmentsin Jammu and Kashmir. Inthe power sector, upgrade oftransmission lines andconstruction of several hydelpower projects were earlierobstructed. P2
JK loses 1900 Cr to projects spill-over670 dev. projects worth 3100 crores gather dust, action a distant dream
SRINAGAR, FEB 19 (KNS)
The resolution passedunanimously by the upperhouse in Jammu andKashmir over declaringstate holiday on the birthanniversary of MaharajaHari Singh- the last King ofthe state, is pending with thegovernment and is awaitingthe final nod.Top sources within the statedispensation told KashmirNews Service (KNS) that onday when the LegislativeCouncil passed theresolution, its details weresent by the secretaryAssembly to SecretaryGeneral Administrative
Department. "It is a generalprocedure that wherever aresolution is passed in theUpper house of the statelegislature, its details areforwarded the GAD for
further action. Theresolution pertaining todeclaring state holiday onMaharaja Hari Singh'sbirthday has also been sentto the GAD for furtheraction thereof," sourceswithin the government toldKNS.It was informed further thatthe file is with thegovernment and is awaitingits final nod for action onground. "There hasn't beenany move forward over theissue as far as I know. It isthe government that has totake a final call over theissue now," divulged anofficial.On Jan 24, P2
File under consideration at GAD as Deputy Chairman asks Govt. to respond
Holiday on Maharaja Hari Singh'sB'Day awaits Government's nod
NL CORRESPONDENTJAMMU TAWI, FEB 19
The State Government hasinvited nominations fromAdministrative Secretariesfor appointment of newChief VigilanceCommissioner (CVC) andVigilance Commissioners inthe J&K State VigilanceCommission (SVC).The AdministrativeSecretaries have been askedto submit nominations by6th March 2017. "Noapplication will beentertained by the GeneralAdministration Department(GAD) directly from anyapplicant," a notificationissued by GAD said."Section-3 (3) of the J&KState Vigilance Commission
(Amendment) Act, 2011provides that the ChiefVigilance commissioner andthe VigilanceCommissioners shall beappointed from amongstpersons who have been orare in All India Service or inany Civil Service of theState or in a civil post underthe State having knowledgeand experience in thematters relating tovigilance, law, finance,policy making andadministration includingpolice administration," theGAD notification said.It said GAD videnotification dated:29.12.2011 has alreadyissued guidelines regardingthe appointment of CVCand VCs P2
Govt invites nominations forappointment of CVC, VC
Srinagar, Feb 19 (PTI)Jammu and Kashmir ChiefMinister Mehbooba Muftitoday vowed to take "anytough decision" for thebetterment of the state.She asserted that 'Agendaof Alliance' between PDPand BJP includes every"aspirational requirement"of the people."The party (PDP) has timeand again displayed that itwould rise to the occasionfor the welfare of thepeople and won't shy awayfrom even taking toughdecisions for thebetterment of the state,"she said.She was speaking at afunction in Budgam wheresenior Congress leaderNazir Ahmad Khan, son offormer ministerMuhammad Sarfaraz Khanand long-time associate oflate Chief Minister MuftiSayeed, joined PDP.In the last Assemblyelections, Khan lost to thethen Chief Minister Omar
Abdullah by a slendermargin of less than1,000 votes inBeerwah constituency.The Chief Ministersaid the successfulexecution of theAgenda of Alliance thecommon minimumprogramme with itscoalition partner BJP -would lead the state tothe heights of peace,prosperity anddevelopment.Mehbooba, who is alsothe PDP president, saidthe agenda of the PDP
is to change the situationof the state for the betterand its commitment andseriousness have beentested time and again."It is an open page of therecent history of Jammuand Kashmir that how PDPchanged the things when itcame to power in 2002. Beit on the political front orgovernance, everythingwitnessed a positivechange during that period,"she clamied.The party under theleadership of Sayeed hadtaken bold decisions totake the state out of thedifficult situation.Welcoming Khan,Mehbooba said he carriesthe political legacy and isfull of enthusiasm to workfor the people of the area.She said PDP needs youngleaders like Khan to carryforward and implement theagenda of the party whichaims at bringing happinessand prosperity back to thestate.
Won't shy away fromtaking tough decisions: CM
JAMMU, FEB 19 (KIP)
with support from thecongress and the NationalConference people haveignored the Army Chief'swarning to those trying todisturb attention of securityforces during encounters.Since the NationalConference and theCongress berated the ArmyChief for having issued apolitically motivatedstatement people inKashmir have shown norespect for the Army Chief'swarning. This waswitnessed during theencounter between militantsand security forces the otherday in Pulwama district
where people hurled stonesat the security forces whilethey engaged in flushing outmilitants.
In fact it has become afashion for people inKashmir to stage protestdemonstrations wheneversecurity forces cordoned offarea for eliminatingmilitants. This woulddistract the attention ofsecurity forces and in suchoperation two militants hadescaped . The Army Chief had warnedthose who will unfurl Pak orISIS flags or hurl stones atthe security forces will bedealt with a heavy hand.Official circles said thatpeople P2
Protesters ignore ArmyChief's warning
NL CORRESPONDENTSRINAGAR, FEB 19
Retired Lt General andformer Northern ArmyCommand Chief, D SHooda has said there hasbeen steady reduction oftroops in Jammu andKashmir over the years."We have de-inducted twodivisions from the Jammuregion. In the past, we havepulled out troops fromKashmir and moved theminto the Ladakh region.Actually, if you see, therehas been a fairly steadyreduction (of securityforces). You don't see it inthe Kashmir Valley becauseeveryone wears the sameuniform. The CRPF and theArmy are sort of wearing the
same uniform and standingon the streets. Roadprotection is largely theresponsibility of the CRPF,and you see so many of theirmen on the road that itappears like a hugemilitarised society. We havethinned out a lot but someminimum presence isrequired." Hooda told anational daily in aninterview. He said, "Though there is afeeling that the Army is notpulling out forces… Look atthe Jammu region. Over aperiod of time, the regioncooled down and forceswere pulled out. Today thesecurity cover is very thin.But what do you do whenyou have a situation like lastyear (in the Valley)? The
state can't abdicate itsresponsibility to establishlaw and order. So, we wereforced to push in someadditional troops to keep thesituation under control.There are no immediateanswers. There are no easysolutions. We need to sitdown, put our headstogether and find asolution."However, he said thepolitical issue of Kashmirissue has to be addressed."As far as the question of thepresence of the militaryforces on the ground isconcerned, well, it is like thechicken and egg story. See,when things are peaceful,the guys (security forces)will move out."Hooda P2
Steady troops reduction in JK:former Army Commander
NL CORRESPONDENTSRINAGAR, FEB 19
The state government hasinformed the Jammu andKashmir High Court that thestatus of the regular inquiryinto the scam involvingembezzlement of crores ofrupees in the Public HealthEngineering (PHE)Department, Handwara,would be submitted within
three weeks.The HC was also informedthat the Director General ofthe Audit and Inspections,J&K, was also conductingits inquiry and scrutinisingthe records.The scam of the PHEdivision, Handwara, whichwas unearthed in April 2014,involves fraudulentwithdrawal of crores ofrupees from the official
account which was managedby the Executive Engineer,PHE division, Handwara,under the National RuralDrinking Water Programme(NRDWP) scheme.Subsequently, the ChiefEngineer, PHE, Kashmir,had constituted a three-member committee to probethe allegations and find outthe truth. After scrutinisingthe records, the committee
in its detailed report inAugust 2014 hadrecommended that the primafacie evidence meritsreference of the case to theCrime Branch of the J&KPolice for investigation.Subsequently, the caseregistered at the Handwarapolice station wastransferred to the CrimeBranch on August 8, 2014. Meanwhile, P2
Govt. to submit PHE Scamreport to HC within 3 weeks
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JK loses 1900 Cr to
projects spill-overTwo years ago, work on the 850-MW Ratle project on
Chenab river at Drabshalla in Kishtwar district was
stopped as those who were accorded the project stated that
the "atmosphere around the site was insecure.'' The
company was forced to do this after people entered its site
offices "and harassed the staff demanding employment. At
present even, the snail's pace of work on this multi-crore
project is raising several eye brows in the state.
Moreover, the four-laning of the 300-km Jammu-Srinagar
highway was delayed due to land acquisition issues at the
67.7-km Srinagar-Banihal section. The contract was
awarded in September 2010 to a consortium of Ramky
Infrastructure (74 per cent stake) and China's Jiangsu
Provincial Transportation Engineering Group Co Ltd. The
venture had to design, build, finance, operate and transfer
the project on an annuity basis. The concession period was
20 years. The semi-annual annuity was Rs 134.82 crore and
the estimated project cost was Rs 1,101 crore. The project
is yet to witness completion with government claiming that
it would be completed soon. Earlier, it was scheduled to be
completed by June 2016. (KNS)
Govt. to submit PHE Scamreport to HC within 3 weeks
a PIL was filed by a petitioner before the High Court,
alleging that a number of irregularities and embezzlement
worth crores of rupees in a number of schemes like the
NRDWP, executed in the past, particularly from 2006, was
done in connivance with officers/officials at the helm of
affairs at the given point of time in the PHE division,
Handwara.
As the HC started monitoring the investigation into the
case, the PHE authorities placed 16 officers/officials,
including the then Executive Engineer, under suspension,
pending inquiry.
As the matter came up before a division bench of the High
court this week, the court demanded the status of the
regular inquiry into the matter.
"The state counsel states that the Director General, Audit
and Inspections, J&K, is very vigorously conducting an
inquiry and the same shall be concluded by the end of this
month. It is also stated that the status of regular inquiry will
be submitted within three weeks," the High Court observed
in its orders, while granting the Additional Advocate
General three weeks to file the statement of facts and
compliance report.
2 Indians die every minutedue to air pollution: Study
Health Organization (WHO) and the World Meteorological
Organisation (WMO) to promote synergies, collaborate on
data sources, and ensure strong engagement with
Ministries of Health.
Dr Diarmid Campbell-Lendrum, Head of the Health and
Climate Change team at the World Health Organization,
says, "The Paris Agreement was a landmark achievement -
the challenge now is to meet the targets agreed by world
leaders.
"The WHO is working directly with countries to provide
evidence of the specific health risks that each of them
faces, and the health opportunities of a resilient, low
carbon future - as well as the support that they need to
respond to this defining health issue of our time."
According to the WHO, compared with a future without
climate change, the following additional deaths for the year
2030 are projected, 38,000 due to heat exposure in elderly
people, 48,000 due to diarrhoea, 60,000 due to malaria, and
95,000 due to childhood undernutrition.
The WHO projects a dramatic decline in child mortality,
and this is reflected in declining climate change impacts
from child malnutrition and diarrhoeal disease between
2030 and 2050.
On the other hand, by the 2050s, deaths related to heat
exposure (over 100,000 per year) are projected to increase.
Impacts are greatest under a low economic growth scenario
because of higher rates of mortality projected in low- and
middle-income countries.
By 2050, impacts of climate change on mortality are
projected to be greatest in south Asia. These results
indicate that climate change will have a significant impact
on child health by the 2030s.
The World Bank estimated that 5.5 million lives were lost
in 2013 to diseases associated with outdoor and household
air pollution, causing human suffering and reducing
economic development.
The reports calls air pollution and climate change a
"potentially catastrophic risk to human health". The silver
lining is that citizens are waking up and the study finds that
almost 60 per cent of the people surveyed in India feel
climate change substantially harms people. - PTI
Holiday on Maharaja Hari Singh'sB'Day awaits Government's nod
this year, the upper house adopted a resolution urging the
government to declare holiday on September 23 every year
on birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh, the last Dogra
king of Jammu and Kashmir. The private member
resolution was moved by BJP MLC, Ajatshatru Singh, who
is the grandson of the late Maharaja.
The resolution was accepted and Deputy Chairman
Jahangir Hussain Mir asked government to respond.
Minister of Education and Leader of the House Neeam
Akther said, "Jammu and Kashmir already observes 28
state holidays in addition to provincial, restricted, local
holidays," adding, "In this circumstance it's not feasible for
government to further increase the number of holidays,"
and urged Ajatshatru Singh to withdraw the resolution.
Normally members withdraw resolutions after reply from
the government but in this case Ajatshatru Singh refused to
withdraw and pressed for discussion and voting.
Several legislators from PDP and BJP praised the
administration of late Maharaja.
Govt invites nominations forappointment of CVC, VC
of J&K State Vigilance Commission keeping in view the
order of the Supreme Court in P J Thomas Case.
Pertinently, the incumbent Chief Vigilance Commissioner
and a Vigilance Commissioner of SVC are scheduled to
demit office by next week whereas other Vigilance
Commissioner shall demit office next month.
"While making a nomination, a note containing reasons
why in the opinion of the forwarding/sponsoring authority
the person is considered to be suitable for appointment as a
Chief Vigilance Commissioner/Vigilance Commissioner
including merit and integrity should be made part of the
nomination," the GAD notification said adding that up-to-
date curriculum vitae, including age, educational
qualification and details of all posts held by the officer
since the beginning of his/her career should be also
provided alongwith the nomination.
A copy of the detailed OM in this regard is available on
GAD website (www.JKgad.nic.in).
Protesters ignore ArmyChief's warning
would have not ignored Army chief's warning had not the
opposition political leaders questioned the Bipin Rawat's
warning. These circles suggested to the political
leaders to abstain from criticizing the Army Chief's
warning because that was meant to save precious
lives.(KIP)
Steady troops reduction inJK: former Army Commander
believes there is an element of anger of certain level among
the youth. "There is need for engagement, particularly
with the youth. I think 70% of the population there is below
30 years of age. They don't have opportunities. They are
also reluctant to come out of the state. There is enough
scope for generating employment. There is scope for
talking to these guys, understanding what they need. We
need to talk to the traders, taxi owners, people in the
tourism industry, students etc."
He said there are enough opportunities of employment
generation in the state. He said there is a huge tourism
industry, there is horticulture, local handicrafts. "But how
do we utilise it? Ultimately, everyone wants a peaceful life.
I don't think anyone wants this turmoil."
He said if the Army has to be in the state, then there is no
option but to have AFSPS. "Otherwise, legally, the Army
is not supposed to intervene in internal situations. Has the
situation improved, and can we say that the military can be
pulled out and things can be left entirely to the police and
para-military forces? I don't think we have reached that
situation, although the Army has always held the view that
internal security situations are best handled by the police,"
he added.
Further he said the Army has cleaned up its human rights
record over the years.
CM meets annoyedministers, no outcome
Bukhari held a nearly two-hour meeting with the Chief
Minister wherein he discussed issues which he had raised
in his resignation letter.
"I raised the very political issues raised in the
communication (resignation letter). We also discussed
many governmental, administrative, party as well as some
personal issues," Basharat Bukhari told over phone to
media. He, however, did not disclose whether he would
withdraw his resignation. Sources, however, said
Mehbooba urged Bukhari to join his new ministry while
promising to discuss his concerns later.
After his meeting with the Chief Minister, the group of
senior party leaders headed by vice-president Sartaj Madni
met Bukhari at his Srinagar residence. "Bukhari flew to
Jammu, where further discussions will be held," a source
said, adding that the issue would be resolved.
Late Saturday, influential Shia leader Imran Ansari met the
Chief Minister. "Imran met the Chief Minister and insisted
that she should fulfill the promise made to him that at the
time of reshuffle he would get a new ministry," said
Zadibal MLA Abid Ansari and Imran's uncle said. "He
needs a ministry where he can help people. After all, we
have to seek votes."
The PDP sources said the talks with Ansari and Bukhari
were on track and a breakthrough was expected shortly.
Ansari was heading for a pilgrimage trip to Mecca along
with his family, the sources added.
Within hours after the Altaf Bukhari was sworn in as
Education Minister on Friday, the PDP celebrations were
interrupted by the news that senior PDP ministers Bukhari
and Ansari had resigned.
Both ministers are not happy at the treatment meted out to
them in the reshuffle of portfolios.
The sources said the resignations were triggered by the
allotment of Public Works Ministry to Naeem Akhter as
some ministers have been resentful about him getting
important portfolios without being elected by the voters.
The resignations created a buzz in Jammu and Kashmir,
with questions being raised about the well-being of the
party.
Air Asia launchesSrinagar Operations
The Chief Minister welcomed the airline carrier hoping it
would augur well for the coming tourist season in the State
and also facilitate local people with more connectivity to
other cities in the country. Facing pressures, the airline has
decided to recruit all its cabin crew and ground staff
locally.
FROM PAGE 1
2 CITYthe northlines
Jammu | Monday | Feb | 20 | 2017
NEW DELHI: A seniorUnion Home Ministry officialhas slammed the Delhi policefor framing two youths fromJammu and Kashmir in theserial blasts case ahead ofDiwali in 2005 and has alsoraised a question mark on the
kind of policing and criminaljustice system in the country.Senior IPS officer and JointSecretary (North East) in theHome Ministry SatyendraGarg took to the facebook toslam the shoddy investigationsby the Delhi police in the 2005
terror case. "If you are in jailfor more than 11 years for acrime which court finds youhave not done, you must besick of the system. I try toimagine the mental states oftwo persons arrested for 2005Delhi blasts, who spent 11 long
years in Jail and now the courtclears them of all charges, onewonders the type of policingwe have, the type of criminaljustice system we have whereinnocents can be made tospend as much as 11 years inJail," Garg said in his comment
posted on the facebook pageThis is the first time a seniorserving police officer hasspoken about the injusticemeted out to the two youthswrongly implicated in terrorcases on flimsy grounds andfalse charges.
After wasting 12 long years inTihar jail here, the two --Mohammad Rafiq Shah andMohammad Hussain Fazli --were acquitted earlier thisweek by a Delhi court thatruled the evidence against themwere "fabricated and flimsy".
Senior MHA officer slams Delhi police for shoddy probe in 2005 serial blasts case
Director General (DG),
Indian Institute of Mass
Communication, K. G.
Suresh, called on Minster
of State for Education for
Education, Technical
Education Priya Sethi to
discuss modalities for
establishment of permanent
campus of the Institute in
Jammu.
During the meeting, the
Minister assured him of
government's full support
towards development and
growth of the institution in
the State for the benefit of
students. She stated that
efforts would be made to
make IIMC's Jammu
campus a hub for media
education in North India.
She further said that an
independent community
radio station would also be
established at IIMC, once
the permanent campus is
made operational in
Jammu.
DG, IIMC apprised the
Minister that construction
work of boundary wall on
the allotted land measuring
122 kanal at Keran in
Bantalab is going on in full
swing and would be
completed in next three
months.
He further conveyed that
IIMC is planning for short
term and refresher courses
in media communication
for students and working
journalists in the State,
besides reserving about 15
per cent seats at its campus
for students from Northern
regions. Besides, IIMC has
also nominated two senior
journalists, Rahul Jalali and
Rakesh Khar as member of
the editorial board and
Chairman of Admission
Commission, 2017-18
respectively, he added.
Speaker Legislative
Assembly, Kavinder Gupta,
today inaugurated a free
medical camp at Lakshmi
Narayana Mandir organized
by the Rotary Club Jammu
City in collaboration with
Swift Hospital Amritsar.
A team of expert doctors
from Swift Hospital
Amritsar including Chief
ENT and Head/Neck
Surgeon, Dr Prahlad Duggal,
Neuro Surgeon, Dr Dushyant
Thaman, Chief Orthopedic
Surgeon, Dr Ravijot Singh
and Consultant Plastic
Surgeon, Dr Vikas Kakkar
extended healthcare services
to the participants of the
camp.While speaking on the
occasion, Kavinder Gupta
appreciated the camp
organizers saying that such
philanthropic measures are
the need of the hour to save
many precious lives of poor
and needy people. Such
medical camps immensely
help in early detection of
several prevalent ailments
besides suggesting
preventive measures to the
people at their doorsteps, he
added. He asked the people
to take optimum benefit of
such camps and adopt
healthy lifestyle to prevent
themselves from several
diseases.
Speaker said the problem of
chronic diseases in the
country has assumed
epidemic proportions and
such initiatives by the
medicos are imperative for
educating the people about
the symptoms of various
diseases besides
recommending preventive
measures so that they get
timely treatment.
During the camp, patients
were provided free
medicines and were assured
free follow up visits.
Among others who were
present on the occasion
included President, Rotary
Club, senior BJP leader,
Gulchain Singh Charak,
members of Rotary Club,
trustees of Lakshmi Narayan
Mandir Trust and patients.
3 STATE the northlinesJammu | Monday | February 20| 2017
Department of Archives,
Archaeology & Museums,
Jammu and Kashmir in
collaboration with Shasvat
Art Gallery, Jammu and
Indian National Trust for Art
and Cultural Heritage
(INTACH) is organizing five
day workshop-cum-
Exhibition regarding
"Preservative Conservation
of Manuscripts" on Tuesday
(21-02-2017) at Kala
Kendra, Jammu. The
workshop has been
sanctioned by National
Mission for Manuscripts,
Ministry of Culture,
Government of India, for
creating awareness among
general public/Scholars
regarding the importance
and preservation
methods/techniques of
Manuscript Conservation
Resource persons from apex
conservation institutions of
India are expected to deliver
lectures. Near about 45
participants are expected to
attend the 5 days workshop.
Besides workshop,
exhibition of rare
calligraphic specimens, rare
Thangka's, Manuscripts, and
painting shall be displayed.
Minister of State for Culture,
Education, Tourism,
Floriculture, Priya Sethi will
inaugurate the Exhibition,
while as Secretary Culture
Dilshad Khan, V.V. Reddy,
Director, National Mission
for Manuscripts, Ministry of
Culture Government of India
will be present at
inauguration function.
According to officials, the
state of Jammu and Kashmir
possesses an un-interrupted
account of oriental learning,
which can be traced to the
beginning of history. By
virtue of its uniqueness, the
state has remained a
sanctuary of a mixed and
harmonised culture. The
State has produced a galaxy
of philosophers, scholars,
poets, historians, physicians,
mathematicians and not a
single branch of knowledge
has been left untouched by
them and this mental
exercise has never cooled
down but continues even at
present.
Workshop on 'Preventive Conservation of Manuscripts' to begin on Feb 21NL CorrespondentJammu Tawi, Feb 19
JKPSA holds meeting,highlight demandsJammu, Feb 19
To discuss their burning issues, Jammu and Kashmir
Private School Association on Sunday conducted an
Inter-State Conference of Private schools in which they
demanded a clear cut policy for low budget school. They
also warned if government will fail to bring a
comprehensive policy for low budget school running
across the state then they would launch an agitation
against callous attitude of the government at Jantar
Manter, New Delhi.
Addressing the conference, the speakers said, "Should
come out with the clear cut policy to support the low
budget Private Schools which are being run by the
educationist who has passion in providing the education
by charging nominal amount as fees.
They said that axe of the government always falls on the
low budget private schools reason they are not pro poor
people as these schools work for the poor marginal and
minority community. Meanwhile, they also highlighted
the issues pertaining to the new education policies of the
State government for conduct of the examination from
class 5th to 9th & 11th, constitution of new committee to
examine and keep a check on fee structure of unaided
Private Schools, imposition of fine @ Rs. 250/ - per day
to the unaided schools by the Director School Education
on the basis of RTI, increase in number of formalities and
others. Others who were present during the occasion
including Sanjeev Luthra, Lal Chand, O.P. Chandail,
Siddeshwar Sadotra, Chain Singh, Sat Paul Mansotra, R.P
Sharma, Vaneet Gupta, Ajay Kotwai.
CSIR-Indian Institute of
Integrative Medicine (CSIR-
IIIM) on Sunday conducted
'On-the-spot Floral
Painting/Drawing Competition'
at CSIR-IIIM Main campus,
Jammu.
The main purpose of this event
was to ignite the passion for
natural beauty its conservation
and attract the children towards
plant biology especially flowers
and promotion of
entrepreneurship in future
towards floriculture. Around
562 children from 43 different
schools and individuals from
civil society of Jammu region of
J&K participated in the event.
It is pertinent to mention here
that this programme is a part of
'National Seminar-cum-
Exhibition of Kisan Mela,
Entrepreneurship Programme
and Flower Show, 2017' which
will be organized on March 5 at
CSIR-IIIM Farm, Chatha.
The event was categorized in
three age groups viz. Group I
(5-8 years), Group II (9-12
years) and Group III (13-16
years). Children of Group I,
Group II and Group III were
given Gerbera, Nasturtium and
Rose flowers for painting
respectively. Three participants
of each group will be chosen for
prizes. Result of the floral
painting/ drawing competition
will be sent to their respected
schools and prizes will be
distributed on March 05 during
National Seminar-cum-
Exhibition of Kisan Mela,
Entrepreneurship Programme
and Flower Show, 2017 at
CSIR-IIIM Farm, Chatha.
Dr. Suphla Gupta, Dr. Bikarma
Singh, Dr. V.P Rahul, Rajni
Kumari, Chandra Pal Singh,
Rajendra Gochar and other
staff members of CSIR-IIIM
Jammu were also present
during the event.
Kavinder inaugurates medical campNL CorrespondentJammu Tawi, Feb 19
DG IIMC calls on Priya SethiNL CorrespondentJammu Tawi, Feb 19
Minister for PHE, Irrigation &
Flood Control Sham Lal
Choudhary today said the
objective of the department is to
supply clean and pure drinking
water to the people of the State.
For this, the government has
adopted holistic approach
through conjunctive use of
surface, ground and rain water
harvesting, the Minister said
while addressing a gathering
after inaugurating a tube well at
Bakshi Nagar constructed by
Economic Reconstruction
Agency (ERA) at a cost of Rs 1.5
crore.
The water supply scheme having
a discharge capacity of 3 lakh
gallons per day will provide
clean drinking water to 10000
people in Bakshi Nagar,
Maheshpura, Resham Ghar,
Shopping Centre and Gurha
Bakshi Nagar.
The Minister further said the
department is constructing 19
new Water Supply Schemes to
further streamline water supply
scenario in Jammu city and
directions have been given to
complete these schemes by the
end of this year. The department
has been asked to fix leakages in
water pipes and it is the
responsibility of the general
public to immediately inform the
department if they find leakage
of clean drinking water at any
place, he stressed.
MLA, Jammu West in his
address, said the tube well will
definitely help in further
streamlining the water supply in
the area. The work on
constructing seven new tube
wells in the area is going on in
full swing for ensuring that
people don't face any difficulty
in getting sufficient drinking
water in the ensuing summer
season, he informed.
Chief Engineer, PHE Susheel
Aima, Chief Engineer, I&FC
Rajeev Gandotra, Chief
Executive Officer, ERA Vinod
Sharma and other officers of the
department were present on the
occasion.
'Govt working on streamliningpotable water supply'
NL CorrespondentJammu Tawi, Feb 19
Urging the government of Jammu
and Kashmir to bring a legislation to
protect the socio-economic and
ethno-cultural individuality of
Scheduled Tribe communities of
State- the Gujjars and Bakerwals
after conclusion of a programme
organized by Tribal Research and
Cultural Foundation- the speakers
pleaded to provide identical rights to
them which were granted to other
ST communities of India. Attended
by a number of tribal dignitaries the
programme was presided over by
well known Tribal scholar Dr. Javaid
Rahi which was held here on the
topic ' Tribal Rights in India -an
over view of state of J&K State'.
Dr. Javaid Rahi, in his presidential
address stated that 12 ST groups of
J&K state are struggling hard since
many years for a legislation which
can empower the tribes of the state
with identical to rights provided in
the Constitution of India. He said
tribes have many expectations for
Chief Minister Mebooba Mufti who
is also the Tribal Minister.
He said the Indian Constitution
gives many special rights to Tribal
like 'Political Reservation- under its
Article 334, Forest Rights Act -
2006, SC/ST prevention of
Atrocities Act-1989, Rehabilitation
Act -2013 and Conservation Act -
1980 but all these Act are not
extended to state of Jammu and
Kashmir because of its special
status.
He said, "A state Act can enable the
tribes to get identical rights enjoyed
by the nomadic/tribes of other
states of India. Since State have no
identical Act/ Provisions of its own
like other Indian States have, the
tribal of J&K are less empowered in
country said a speaker and added ST
status in J&K is like ALC/RBA
category and no special provisions
were made to strengthen it like it
exists in other states.
Those who spoke on the occasion
included; Dr Rafeeq Chouhan,
Waris Ali Mohammad Din Banya,
Shabnum Rafeeq Bajran, Ali
Hussain Khatana, Bashir Bajad,
Haneef Lodha.
Bring legislation to protecttribal identity: TRCF
NL CorrespondentRajouri, Feb 19
CSIR-IIIM organizes
painting competition NL CorrespondentJammu Tawi, Feb 19
Underlining the hardships
faced by people in due to
lackadaisical attitude of the
government, former Deputy
Chief Minister Tara Chand
said due to ineffective and
poor delivery of the
administration at the ground
level, the public had to bear
the harassment daily.
He said people living in
border areas and far-off belts
were facing huge
administrative deficit.
Addressing a one-day
convention of party workers
at Halqa Marh, he said
people living alongside the
International Border (IB)
were the worst sufferers.
The party convention was
organised by former MLA
and general secretary
Pradesh Congress
Committee (PCC) Balwan
Singh to project the
problems and issues faced
by the residents of the area.
Speaking on the occasion,
Balwan Singh said the PDP-
BJP coalition had failed on
all fronts. He regretted that
except tall promises nothing
constructive had been done
on the grounds and problems
of the common masses were
compounding with every
passing day due to the "anti-
people" policies being
propagated by this regime.
Singh added that poor
people were going through
tough times due to the
indifferent attitude of the
government as the quota of
ration and other essential
commodities was being
denied to them. He said
soaring prices had made the
life of people extremely
difficult and the government
should immediately ensure
that people get their share of
ration.
Raising the issues pointed
by Congress Vice-President
Rahul Gandhi, the former
MLA said post
demonetisation, relevant
questions had been asked
from the BJP-led
government and five points
raised bring to the fore the
ill-conceived drive launched
by the Prime Minister. He
called upon party cadres to
prepare for the panchayat
elections and lambasted the
government for playing with
the real spirit of the 73rd
amendment and the local
self-government concept.
Govt indifferent to people'sproblems: Congress
NL CorrespondentJammu Tawi, Feb 19
Printed, Publish
4 HOME & GARDENthe northlines
Jammu | Monday | Feb | 20 | 2017
Considered to be one of the most dirty things we pay
least attention to, laptop keyboards
n e e d y o u r attention this
weekend. This th ree - s tep p r o c e s s will help you clean y o u r l a p t o p without causing any damage t o y o u r cyber world. Here's how...-Use distilled water to clean your laptop. And, if heavy cleaning is
required then use homemade solutions like white vinegar with water. No
alcohol, ammonia should be used.-After the solution is made, put it in a
Rains might poke the romantic avatar in some but for many, it is also becomes a reason to stay confined to their homes while it rains cats and dogs outside. The sight of an overcast sky and the raindrops tapping incessantly at the window glass is a recipe for melancholia. Here’s how to bring back the fun.
C re a t e a recipe bookMake recipe cards — the shabbier the better. Collect photos from big family dinners. Hunt out old champagne and wine labels. Compile the memorabilia by time period or holiday. Affix the items horizontally in an unlined journal. Use photo corners for pictures and
recipe cards and adhesive for labels and clippings. Stick a title on the front of the journal with alphabet stickers, and finish off with a ribbon.
Your own film festQueue up DVDs of classics (Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, Amar Akbar, Anthony), old (Andaz Apna Apna) and new (The Dark Knight), and have a marathon screening. Keep a cozy throw at hand to snuggle under, a big bowl of popcorn to dip into, and settle in to enjoy the show.
No-battery gamesThere are plenty of games you can play that don’t require paraphernalia or even batteries. Like the “one-word story”. Starting with “Once upon a time,” go around the room and have each person add a single word to the story. To make things easier, decide on a genre in advance — vampire, horror or fairytale.
Take to craftThere’s nothing like creative time to beat the monsoon blues. Start with origami. Or if you’re a klutz, look around the house for items that you might not normally use for crafting — dry pasta, magazines, paper bags, straws, string, newspaper, fabric scraps or old socks. Then bring out the glue, tape, scissors and markers, and have a blast.
Indoor treasure huntMake one set of clues for every player (try rhyming the clues for fun), each clue leading to the next one and, finally, to the treasure. Seal them in envelopes marked with a clue number (like “four of eight”); this will help the treasure
If you have a large window at a strategic point, there is no
reason why you should cover it with a curtain. It can, in fact turn
into one of the biggest attraction points of your home, if you decorate it right!Here are some tips to add glamour to your window.
Foliage magic : Nothing looks better than fresh green vines decorating a
window. Plant a few all weather creepers and make them climb
on your window. You can use artificial plants as well.
Lacy Charm: If you want an elegant, dreamy look
for your house, lace curtains are the best
choice to deck up your window. You can get laces stitched t o
your existing curtains to cut down the budget.Chirpy Chimes: For happy tinkling that will add a festive fervor to your home, use chimes to dress up your windows. For a sweet disharmony, use chimes with differently shaped rods.Cage Couture: Cages are the new rage today. You can stuff them with flowers,
3 simple tips to clean
Things to do at home on a wet wet day
hunters keep track. Whoever solves the clues first and finds the treasure — movie tickets, chocolate — is the winner.
Fun tea partyYou’ll need to call friends over, or gather the family around for this one. Dress up in the fanciest — or the most ridiculous — clothes you have. Set the table with the good china. On the menu could be tea, hot chocolate, egg or chicken salad, muffins and tea sandwiches in fun shapes. If you have kids, ask them to bring along their dolls and soft toys for the party.
Mini marshmallow popping contestThis one will require a bit of effort, but is lots of fun. Knot the end of a balloon, then snip off ½ inch from the top. Stretch the balloon over the cutoff end of a paper cup so that the knot is in the centre. Place a mini marshmallow into the cup so it fits snugly in the knotted centre of the balloon. While aiming the cup away from you, pull the knot back, release, and send the marshmallow soaring. See who can pop marshmallows the farthest or get the most into a bowl that is kept a few feet away.
Camp indoorsCreate tents by draping sheets over the couch. Make them comfy with pillows and sleeping bags. Follow through with an indoor picnic.The most severe form of weather-based emotion is known as SAD (seasonal affective disorder). The signs are severe hopelessness or anxiety. Arrange your environment so that you receive maximum sunlight. Move furniture so that you sit near a window. Installingskylights and adding lamps can also help.
5 ideas to dress up Your WindowsWindows5 ideas to dress up
leaves and candles and hang them for a pretty, dainty look!Dazzling lights: What can be prettier than colourful glow bulbs arrangd in an array, or lovely hanging tea lights? You can also buy hanging lamps and put them on the curtain hanger.According to Shruti S, decorator and design enthusiast, " It is important to keep
the decor of your home in mind while decking up a window. Ensure that you do not clutter it and keep space for light and sunshine.""You can create a kitsch look by hanging paraphernalia which do not exactly match, but create a lively, bright look as a whole," she adds.
small container and use it like a spray from top to get the fine mist.-A soft disposable cloth is best, since it will help to reduce the risk of leaving streaks across the screen from finger pressure. Wipe the cloth against the screen in a circular and consistent motion.
Your laptopYour laptop
Make creative use of mirrors in your home décorApart from telling you that you look beautiful everyday, mirrors can be used creatively at strategic points in the house to enhance the decor. Here are some ways to use them in a creative manner.Add sparkle to your cookingMirrors in the kitchen can attract grease and grime, so use them in a smart way. One way of doing this is by using an antique mirror with a smoky effect. Place them in such a way that they don't attract unnecessary soot.Mirrors for outdoor areasIf you have an outdoor area, terrace or a big balcony you can use a clear mirror to make the space look much larger. Use mirrors with appropriate frames as per the theme of the outdoor area.Smart use of mirrors in the bedroomAccording to vaastu and feng shui experts, mirrors placed in front of your sleeping area are a strict no, but with proper advice and creativity you can place them in areas other than these. Place them in such a way that they reflect light from the lampshade.Make the bathroom look elegantUse lean mirrors instead of bulky ones for the bathroom area with shades like bronze, cinnamon and dark chocolate. You can also buy modern mirrors with chrome finish.Try mirrored furnitureYou can buy mirrored furniture like a chest of drawers or coffee table with mirrors on it. If you have a small roon, you can place them next to a wall and it will give an illusion of the floor extending beyond the wall.Use them creatively in your hall
Take mirrors of different shapes and sizes and frame them. The frames can be ornate, antique, funky or anything that you like. Create a collection of these frames on the wall and they will look like artwork. Mirrors can also be used to lighten the look of your seating area if you have used vibrant paint on the wall.Do's and Don'ts while using mirrorsDo use big mirrors in small rooms.This creates an illusion of
adding more depth to the room, so go ahead and use a big mirror.Try having wall-to-wall mirrors.Do use mirrors even in small spaces.Use a horizontal mirror in a narrow hallway or staircase, to widen the space.Don't just use mirrors anywhere.Dont't hang a mirror to cover any empty wall space.Make sure the miror reflects something good to look at and not a pile of unused things in the hall or a laundry basket in the bathroom.Don't have too many mirrors in the kitchen since they need constant maintenance.
5 KATHUA the northlinesJammu | Monday | February 20| 2017
In the court of Distt. JudicialMobile Magistrate(T), Kathua
Present Sh. Munish K Manhas
Vinod Singh S/o Hazoor Singh R/o Village Nanan,Tehsil andDistrict kathua. (Petitioner)
V/s Chief Medical Officer, Kathua.(Respondent)
Petition U/s 13(3) of registration of Birth/Death Act, seekingdirection to the respondent to enter the Birth particulars of thepetitioner's daughter Namely Manvi Devi D/o Vinod Singh &Smt.Anita Devi R/o Village Nanan,Tehsil and District kathua .Whowas born on 15-06-2014. at home.
*Proclamation*Whereas petitioner has field the above titled petition in this court forissuing direction to respondent regarding registration of birthparticulars of petitioner's daughter Namely Manvi Devi D/o VinodSingh & Smt.Anita Devi R/o Village Nanan,Tehsil and DistrictKathua .Who was born on 15-06-2014. at home.and through themedium of this proclamation, general public is informed that anyperson/s has/have to the same, in that event he/she/they shall fileobjection before this court on/or before 04-03-2017, failing whichappropriate order shall be passed. Take notice that in case the datefixed is declared holiday, the matter shall be taken in the nextworking day.
DJMM (T), Kathua.
In the court of Distt. JudicialMobile Magistrate(T), Kathua
Present Sh. Munish K Manhas
Vinod Singh S/o Hazoor Singh R/o Village Nanan,Tehsil andDistrict kathua. (Petitioner)
V/s Chief Medical Officer, Kathua.(Respondent)
Petition U/s 13(3) of registration of Birth/Death Act, seekingdirection to the respondent to enter the Birth particulars of thepetitioner's son Namely Vansh Singh S/o Vinod Singh & Smt.AnitaDevi R/o Village Nanan,Tehsil and District kathua .Who was bornon 14-03-2011 at home.
*Proclamation*Whereas petitioner has field the above titled petition in this court forissuing direction to respondent regarding registration of birthparticulars of petitioner's son Namely Vansh Singh S/o Vinod Singh& Smt.Anita Devi R/o Village Nanan,Tehsil and District kathua.Who was born on 14-03-2011 at home and through the medium ofthis proclamation, general public is informed that any person/shas/have to the same, in that event he/she/they shall file objectionbefore this court on/or before 04-03-2017, failing which appropriateorder shall be passed. Take notice that in case the date fixed isdeclared holiday, the matter shall be taken in the next working day.
DJMM(T), Kathua.
In the court of Distt. JudicialMobile Magistrate(T), Kathua
Present Sh. Munish K Manhas
Gulshan Kumar S/o Jai Gopal R/o Uttri,Tehsil and District Kathua. (Petitioner)
V/s Chief Medical Officer, Kathua.(Respondent)
Petition U/s 13(3) of registration of Birth/Death Act, seekingdirection to the respondent to enter the Birth particulars of thepetitioner's son Namely Shivam Verma S/o Rekha Kumari &Sh.Gulshan Kumar R/o Uttri,Tehsil and District kathua .Who wasborn on 14-11-2010 at home.
*Proclamation*Whereas petitioner has field the above titled petition in this court forissuing direction to respondent regarding registration of birthparticulars of petitioner's son Namely Shivam Verma S/o RekhaKumari & Sh.Gulshan Kumar R/o Uttri,Tehsil and District kathua.Who was born on 14-11-2010 at home and through the medium ofthis proclamation, general public is informed that any person/shas/have to the same, in that event he/she/they shall file objectionbefore this court on/or before 02-03-2017, failing which appropriateorder shall be passed. Take notice that in case the date fixed isdeclared holiday, the matter shall be taken in the next working day.
DJMM (T), Kathua.
In the court of Ld SpecialMobile Magistrate, Kathua
Present: Sh.Sunil Sangra
Harjeet Singh V/s Chief Medical Officer, Kathua
Petition U/s 13(3) of registration of Birth/Death Act, seekingdirection to Chief Medical Officer, and Kathua to register the dateof birth particular of petitioner namely Samardeep Kour D/o HarjeetSingh R/o Rakh Lachhipur Tehsil and District Kathua.
*Notice to Public at Large*Whereas petitioner has field the above titled petition in this court forissuing direction to respondent regarding registration of birthparticular of petitioner namely Samardeep Kour D/o Harjeet SinghR/o Rakh Lachhipur Tehsil and District Kathua who was born on 12-01-2010 And through the medium of this proclamation, generalpublic is informed that any person/s has/have to the same, in thatevent he/she/they shall file objection before this court on or before10 days from date of this notice failing which appropriate order shallbe passed. Take notice that in case the date fixed is declared holiday,the matter shall be taken in the next working day.
Given under my hand and seal of this court today the17th day of feb.2017.
Sd/-Special Mobile Magistrate,
Kathua
Jammu Sanskriti SchoolKathua celebrated its firstAnnual Day "Prayaas"(inculcation of ethicalvalues). This came acrossclearly during the AnnualDay celebration 2016-17,"Prayaas-I show casing, "Apositive and constant striveto give our best efforts,eventually. We willovercome our immediateproblems and are ready forgreater challenges." RameshKumar (IAS), DC Kathuawas the Chief Guest, Rajesh
Sharma DC Excise,Lakhanpur as the Guest of Honour and YasinChoudhary (IAS), was thespecial invitee. The programbegan with the ceremoniallightening of the auspiciouslamp by all the dignitariesamidst reciting of shlokas.Various cultural activitieswere performed by our littleSanskritians and spread themagic by their artisticperformances. In his speech,Chief Guest Ramesh Kumar(IAS) motivated thestudents . He appreciatedthe efforts of students andstaff. He further added, that
in order to gain success wehave to face manydifficulties and face themwith courage. Guest ofhonour Rajesh Sharma DCExcise appreciated thefunction and motivated thestudents to work hard andstruggle for success. Specialinvitee Yasin Choudhary(IAS) said that suchprogrammes based on moralvalues should beencouraged as a resultchildren will be able tounderstand them nicely.Shuchita Gupta, Principal ofJammu Sanskriti SchoolKathua with immense pride
presented the Annual Reportshowcasing andbroadcasting the accoladesand laurels notched by thestudents of the school in their pursuit for excellencein all fields like sports,scholastic and co-scholasticetc. Shuchita Gupta spokeabout her future plans fornurturing and promotingJammu Sanskriti SchoolKathua. Chairman HarpreetSingh Anand alsoappreciated the hard workdone by the students tomake the annual function anunforgettable event. Parentsof the children, specialinvitees and principals fromvarious reputed schoolswere also present on thisoccasion. Rohini Aima vicechairperson cum principalof Jammu Sanskriti School,Jammu concluded theprogramme with a vote ofthanks.
JSS celebrates its first Annual Day
Notice I, Naresh Kumar S/o Sh.Puran Chand R/o PatelNagar, Kathua, going forthe correction of mymother's name which hasbeen wrongly written asAnju Bala instead of AnjuDevi in my 8th & 10thclass mark sheet under Roll No.2611028 Session 2016(Annual). Objection, if any, may be conveyed to concernedauthority within 7 days from the publication of this notice.
Notice I, Rajesh Kumar S/o Sh. Dev Raj R/o ward no. 2 Kathua,have lost cheque of my current account bearing regd.no.31676254037 and cheque no. 031138. Now, I am applyingfor the cancellation of this cheque. Objection, if any, may beconveyed to concerned authorities within 7 days from thepublication of this notice.
NL CorrespondentKathua, Feb 19
Expressed grave concern over scarceavailability of rations, especiallysugar at the CAPD outlets across thePoonch District, former MLA andProvincial President Youth NationalConference Ajaz Jan on Sunday askedthe government to shoulder the basicminimum responsibility ofgovernance and solve the problems ofpeople forthwith.
Addressing party workers at MandiPoonch, Jan said the PublicDistribution System (PDS) outlets arealmost empty, forcing rationees towait for weeks together. "Due tosnowfall and land lockedness ofvarious areas the supplies have gotfurther impacted adversely", he said,adding that the ration holders havebeen deprived of sugar quota forabout four months."As if it is not enough, the insensitivegovernment is linking PDS
distribution with Aadhar with asizable chunk of population yet tohave cards, as the concerned agencyhas wound up its centres due to non-payment of their dues", he added.The Provincial Youth NationalConference President also criticizedthe Centre for not allotting requiredquota of LPG and kerosene oil to thestate as a result of which the people infar-flung areas are hugely suffering.He said both the Centre and the StateGovernment have failed in mitigatingthe problems of the people in Jammuand Kashmir and during the past twoyears these have accumulatedmanifold.Earlier, people from different villagesof Poonch Mandi met the formerMLA and raised issues of their areasrelated to rations, power, drinkingwater besides dilapidated condition ofroads and failure of the government inundertaking restoration of damagedutility services due to rains andsnowfall. (KNS)
Jan expresses concern over rationscarcity at PDS outlets
NL CorrespondentPoonch, Feb 19
NL CorrespondentRAMBAN, Feb 19
A team of Jammu andKashmir Against Corruption(JKAC) held a meeting withthe youth of DistrictRamban at Al FallahWelfare FoundationBanihal, today.The team membersincluding vice presidentMohammad Ashraf Bhatalongwith Mir Irfan, ShahAadil, Adnan Manzoor,Sajid Yousuf, MohammadAslam and Aasif Plaisarvisited Banihal.Focused on how to eradicatethe evil of corruption fromour society were discussedand during the meetingfuture strategies where alsodiscussed. The meeting wasalso backed by the membersof Alfalah WelfareFoundation, World Aidorganization for HumanRights J&K, president BaparMandal Banihal. Mudasir
Rashid was chosen as"District President" as on thelocal vote counts of theyouth present there. Theplans about futuredevelopment regardingyouth was also discussed byShah Aadil. The JKACwelcomes the youth of thevalley to come forward andJoin the cause. JKAC cameto know the Corruption levelat Banihal that youth putforth. The youth of Banihalhas a lot of potential to dobest for the society. In the
message the JKAC StateVice President MohammadAshraf Bhat said that all theyouth has an important roleto play to build the society.Ashraf Bhat also focused onthe development of the youthin all respects and promisedthat every possible help willbe given to the needy. Therewere numbers of youthjoining the JKAC today atBanihal. They have a provenability to fight againstcorruption and have showndedication towards the work.
JKAC holds meeting, discussvarious issues
Minister of State for Finance and Planning,Ajay Nanda, today conducted SamparkYatra in several villages includingDhanowa, Kothiyan, Kherlair, Dab Khalsaand adjoining parts of Pouni block to takestock of public issues besides reviewingdevelopment works. The Minister, whileinteracting with the locals, assured them thatthe government is well abreast with theirproblems and demands and is working hardto ensure better amenities with enhancedbasic services. He asked the people toactively participate in development works
being executed in their respective areas foreffective outcome. Elucidating on theinitiatives taken by the present dispensation,the Minister said that all-round developmenthas been recorded in the state with emphasison unattended areas. "This has becomepossible due to people's trust andcooperation being extended to thegovernment agencies in execution of vitaldevelopment projects," he maintained. TheMinister also hailed the initiatives of CentralGovernment like demonetization, cashlesstransaction and other welfare schemessaying that these efforts would definitelyhelp in containing corruption besidesimproving the living standards of people.
Continuing with their driveagainst smugglers, a jointteam of the officials of TollPost Lakhanpur and PoliceDepartment Lakhanpurfoiled a major smugglingbid when they seized 90Kgs of Poppy straw beingcarried outside the State. Avehicle bearing registrationro. PB09X-2075 carriedgoods (wooden chips) of anIndustrial Unit and claimedexemption from payment ofToll on these goods thatwere consigned by M/s.Classic Popular Works,Gariend, Budgam to M/s.Kuantum Paper Ltd, ShalaKhurd Hoshiarpur, Punjab.However, on physicalchecking of the vehicle, itwas found carrying 5 bagsof Bhukki alongwithwooden chips. The vehiclealongwith wooden chipsand contraband item(Bhukki) has been seized bythe Police Station,Lakhanpur for further
action under the NDPS Act.The whole operation wasconducted by the joint teamheaded by Excise &Taxation Officer VirinderSingh Pawar and SHOPolice Station LakhanpurKulbir Choudharyalongwith Excise InspectorsAnil Kumar, S. AnmolakSingh & Sanjeev Khajuria,Excise Sub-InspectorSurinder Bagal, ExciseGuard Sham Lal and theteam of Police StationLakhanpur. In this regard acase FIR No. 19/2017 u/s8/15/18NDPS has beenlodged in Police StationLakhanpur. The SeniorSudpt. Of Police, KathuaSh. Pawan Parihar and TheDeputy ExciseCommissioner, Toll PostLakhanpur Sh. RajeshSharma and appreciated theefforts of the respectivestaff in detecting the instantcontraband items andenjoined upon them to workwith more zeal and incoordination with differentdepartments / agencies.
'JK witnessing all-round development'
NL CorrespondentReasi, Feb 19
Peoples Democratic PartyPresident and chief minister,Mehbooba Mufti todayasserted that the agenda ofher party is to change thesituation of Jammu &Kashmir for better and itscommitment and seriousnesshave been attested time andagain. Addressing a largenumber of people fromBudgam district on theoccasion of joining of apolitical heavy weight ofCentral Kashmir and seniorleader of Congress party,Nazir Ahmad Khan ofBeerwah into PDP heretoday, Mehbooba Mufti saidthe party has time and againdisplayed that it would rise to the occasion for thewelfare of the people and
won't shy away from eventaking tough decisions forthe betterment of the State.Mehbooba Mufti said theparty under the leadership oflate Mufti MuhammadSayeed has taken even verybold decisions to ensure abetter environment to thepeople and take the State outof its difficult situation.Welcoming Nazir AhmadKhan into the party fold,Mehbooba Mufti said hecomes from a good politicallegacy and is full ofenthusiasm to work for thepeople of the area adding hisentry into the party is like ahome coming for him. Shesaid the party needs youngleaders like him to carryforward and implement theagenda of the party whichaims at bringing happinessand prosperity back to the
State. Earlier, Vice Presidentof PDP, Muhammad SartajMadni formally welcomedNazir Ahmad Khan and hissupporters into the partyfold. Son of MuhammadSarfaraz Khan, a long-timeassociate of late MuftiMuhammad Sayeed andformer Minister, NazirAhmad Khan has been inactive politics for the lasttwo decades. In the lastAssembly elections he lost tothen then chief minister,Omar Abdullah by a slendermargin of less than onethousand votes. GeneralSecretary of PDP, QaziMuhammad Afzal, Ministerfor PWD, Naeem Akhter,former MLA, Dr. ShafiAhmad Wani and hundredsof party workers werepresent on the occasion.(KNS)
90 Kg of poppy strawseized at Lakhanpur
NL CorrespondentKathua, Feb 19
Congress veteran NazirKhan joins PDP
NL CorrespondentSrinagar, Feb 19
Lt Gen Prakash Katoch
December 21, 2016 was badday for India when the trialtest of the nuclear-capable'Nirbhay' long-range cruisemissile failed for the thirdtime. Ironically the missilehas failed to achieve itsfailed parameters sinceMarch 2013. Like theprevious tests, the third testalso took place at theIntegrated Test Range (ITR)off the coast of Odisha.According to DRDOofficials, "The boosterengine in Nirbhay's firststage started working. Themissile lifted off from itslauncher. But it startedveering dangerouslytowards one side in lessthan two minutes of its lift-off", adding, "This is ahardware element issue.This is a reliability issuewith a component. …. It isa big failure. We shouldhave a thorough re-look atwhat has been done so far.Out of four Nirbhaymissions, three have endedin failure."Nirbhay missile, onceoperational, will also likelybe deployed aboard surfacewarships of the IndianNavy. DRDO is reportedlyalso working on developingan air-launched variant ofthe weapon system for theIAF.The missile reportedly hadto be destroyed mid-airafter it deviated from itscourse. During the flighttrial of this missileconducted on Octobe4 17,2014, the missile reportedlytravelled 1,010 kms whilebeing monitored by theground station and an IAFfighter jet. Nirbhay is asubsonic land attack cruisemissile armed with a 300-kilogram warhead andcapable of reaching speedsof 0.6-0.7 Mach. It isdesigned to be highlymaneuverable, has loiteringcapabilities, and can belaunched from air, sea, andland. India's firstdomestically developed andbuilt ballistic missilenuclear submarine (SSBN)class, the Arihant-class, isto be armed with theNirbhay cruise missile.Nirbhay missile, onceoperational, will also likelybe deployed aboard surfacewarships of the IndianNavy. DRDO is reportedlyalso working on developing
an air-launched variant ofthe weapon system for theIAF.Government has now givenan 18 month extension forthe Nirbhay project over themissiles operationalcapabilities. Having beenlaunched in 2004,completion date of theproject was 31 December2016. The Nirbhay team hasbeen asked to complete theproject by June, 2018.Under developmental trialsince 2013, the missile isyet to perform as per theexpectations. Meanwhile,an independent technicalcommittee has been formedto identify faults in thesystem that led to failure ofthe missile during its fourthtrial on December 21.The probe committee led byDr Nagarajan Vedachalam,founder director of ISRO'sInertial System Unit, willidentify the faults and makerecommendations to rectifythem and make the systemrobust. Such a probe shouldhave actually been launchedduring previous failures,which could have beenaffected earlier rectificationgiven the expertise ofISRO. In fact, probe apart,ISRO should have beeninvolved in the project itselfmuch earlier, right from itsinception.There is no reason to bedisheartened with Nirbhay'sfiasco on last December.Developing a cruise missileby itself is a complex issue,and Nirbhay will match theworld's most advanced in itscategory.According to an unnamedofficial of the Nirbhayproject quoted by themedia, the blame gamebetween the AeronauticalDevelopment Establishment(ARDE) and ResearchCentre Imarat (RCI), bothlaboratories of DRDO costthe project more than thefaults in the system. ARDE,which designed the missile,has been blaming RCI forsupplying defectivehardware, while RCIblames ARDE developedsoftware causing recurringfailures.The Nirbhay project isabout mastering cruisemissile technology as muchas it is about delivering auseable weapon to thearmed forces. The Nirbhaysubsonic cruise missile is tohave: range exceeding
1,000 km; speed between0.8 and 0.9 Mach; launchweight of 1,500 kg; lengthof 6 meters; carryconventional or nuclearwarheads of 24 differenttypes, and; fly at very lowaltitudes of 20 meters orless evading radar detection,using a terrain-followingfunction facilitated by itsonboard inertial navigationsystem.There is no reason to bedisheartened with Nirbhay'sfiasco on last December.Developing a cruise missileby itself is a complex issue,and Nirbhay will match theworld's most advanced in itscategory.It is well known that even acountry like China coulddevelop a cruise missileonly through reverseengineering after it pickedup an unexploded Americancruise missile aimed atOsama bin-Laden verymany years ago. WhileOsama was saved havingswitched off his satellitephone and moving away,one of the three unexplodedmissile fell inside Pakistan,which China promptlypicked up and copied.India could have reverseengineered the BrahMos butrefrained from doing so indeference to the agreementwith Russia. There is everyreason to believe that withISRO's involvement,Nirbhay will be deliveredwithin the 18 monthsextension accorded to theproject. It is quite amusingto note that soon after theNirbhay test last December,Pakistan floated video clipof the test flight of itssubmarine launched BaburIII missile, which appears tobe nothing more than ananimation fake.…there is no reason DRDOcannot come up with asuccessful Nirbhay flight-test in the near future,especially with ISROintegrated into the project.On February 11, 2017 theDRDO successfully test-fired a interceptor missileoff Odisha coast andachieved a significantmilestone in the direction ofdeveloping a two-layeredBallistic Missile Defencesystem. This mission,termed as "PDV mission isfor engaging the targets inthe exo-atmosphere regionat an altitude above 50 kmof earth's atmosphere", as
per the DRDO. Theinterceptor is based on thenuclear-capable Prithvimissile and the target wasdeveloped for mimicking ahostile Ballistic Missileapproaching from more than2,000 km away waslaunched from a shipanchored in the Bay ofBengal.In an automated operation,radar based detection andtracking system detectedand tracked the enemy'sballistic missile. Thecomputer network with thehelp of data received fromradars predicted thetrajectory of the incomingBallistic Missile. The PDVthat was kept fully ready,took-off once the computersystem gave the necessarycommand for lift-off.Significantly, the TerminalHigh Altitude Area Defense
(THAAD) system is one ofthe recent additions toAmerica's anti-ballisticmissile arsenal; designed tointercept incoming missilesat the maximum altitude of93 miles above the surfaceof the Earth.India's successful interceptortest brings the countrycloser to developing arobust BMD. With thisfeather under its cap, thereis no reason DRDO cannotcome up with a successfulNirbhay flight-test in thenear future, especially withISRO integrated into theproject. The Nirbhaymissile, together with theBrahMos, Agni-V andsuchlike weaponry in India'sarsenal, should deter ouradversaries from mischief.Lt Gen Prakash Katoch is aformer Lt Gen SpecialForces, Indian Army.
Nitin A Gokhale
'General Rawat'sunambiguous standhas acted as a much
needed confidence booster tothe troops -- young officersand soldiers at the cuttingedge -- who were often leftwondering if they were doingthe right and necessary thingin combating the terrorists,many times paying with theirown lives,' says Nitin AGokhale.There was one section -- andI don't want to call themintellectuals -- which pays lipservice to the fauj, but inreality stands againsteverything that the armyseeks to protect and defend.
This group has variouslydubbed the army chief'sremark as an 'intemperatestatement,' 'belligerent stand,'and 'declaration of waragainst Kashmiri youth.'This group of people havesought to create animpression that the armychief has ordered his troopsto kill and maimindiscriminately.This is nothing but deliberatedistortion of an emphaticassertion by a professionalentrusted with the security ofthe country. But more of thata little later. General Rawat'sunambiguous stand has actedas a much needed confidencebooster to the troops -- youngofficers and soldiers at thecutting edge -- who wereoften left wondering if theywere doing the right andnecessary thing in combatingthe terrorists, many timespaying with their own lives.In the wake of elimination ofBurhan Wani, a local youth-turned terrorist leader lastyear and the subsequentturmoil in the Kashmirvalley, abetted in no smallmeasure by the PakistaniDeep State through selfishand self-centred separatistleaders, politics had
dominated the discourse onJ&K.It was conveniently forgottenthat irrespective of his origin(as a Kashmiri youth),Burhan Wani was after all aterrorist whose days werenumbered once he took uparms against the Indian State.His killing in an encounterwith the security forcesshould have been treated asjust that -- neutralisation of aterrorist.Instead, a narrative wassought to be built, blamingthe security forces for doingtheir job and doing itprofessionally.The months of unrest thatfollowed Burhan Wani'sdeath often hampered themovement of the securityforces, disrupted theirlogistics chain and disturbeda well laid out security grid.The successful surgicalstrikes by the Indian Army'sspecial forces againstterrorist launch pads locatedin Pakistan occupiedKashmir was preceded andfollowed by two setbacks forthe Indian Army at Uri andNagrota respectively.The army can take thesetbacks in its stride andlearn lessons from them, butwhat demoralises the soldiersare the barely concealedbarbs by ill-informed criticswho do not have the faintestidea about the difficulties andconstraints under which thetroops have been operating inthe unending war in J&K forover a quarter century now.No army in the world hasmaintained the relentlesstempo of operations as theIndian Army has done since1990.It is to the credit of the IndianArmy's leadership over theyears that the troops haveretained the highest degree ofmotivation despite mountingodds.However, the unwarrantedcriticism about strategy and
tactics and the contempt thatsome of our prominentopinion makers hold againstthe army had begun to affectthe soldiers on the ground.A slight hesitation had startedto creep in in their approachto counter-insurgency andcounter-terrorists operations.Fortunately, the army chief'sstatement would haveremoved any lingeringdoubts the soldiers may havehad about the necessity oftheir job and their role.At another level, the armychief's warning to thosehindering operations and thesupport extended to him bythe political leadership overhis stand should send theright message to those fishingin Kashmir's troubled waters.The separatists cannot useunsuspecting young men andwomen as cannon fodder fortheir own agenda and getaway with it.The Kashmiri awam mustquestion the separatists: Howlong are you going to firefrom the shoulders ofordinary Kashmiris?There have been suggestionsthat the Centre must reachout to the youth of Kashmir.Perhaps the time has come todo just that and ignore theusual suspects, but beforethat the youth must begin tounderstand the differencebetween mindless protestsand legitimate demands.Politics apart, Kashmiriparents must also begin toask the question tothemselves: Why allow theyoung to be used as a smokescreen for politicalobjectives?Perhaps the stern warningthat those who hamperlegitimate army operationswill not be spared shouldspur families in Kashmir toask that question sooner thanlater.So for all those who outrageagainst the army chief'sstatement: hold yourthoughts. He is not seekingany impunity for his troops.All that he is asking for is theright of the Indian Army toexercise its legitimate powersgiven under the veryConstitution by which youclaim to swear.Nitin A Gokhale is the Editor-in-Chief, BharatShakti.in anda long-standing Rediff.comcolumnist.
K Srinivasan
The Goods and Services TaxCouncil's (GSTC) tenth
meeting took place inRajasthan's lake city, Udaipur, on
Saturday, February 18.
In a bid to roll out the GST by thescheduled date, July 1, which has beenachieved at long last, the final draft of
the Bill meant for providing statescompensation for possible loss due tointroduction of national sales tax, wasapproved by the finance minister ArunJaitley-led council on Saturday.The council has put off draft laws of C-GST, I-GST and S-GST for approval in itsforthcoming meeting on March 4 and 5 inNew Delhi. In fact, it was eagerly expectedthat all four bills would be passed duringSaturday's meeting itself.The council, however, cleared the draft ofthe anti-profiteering clause of the modelGST law, which is the machinery provisionfor ensuring the passing on of the benefit oflower taxes each time tax is reduced by thegovernment.Former PM Manmohan Singh's entreatiesover the same issue, of passing on thebenefit to consumers, had earlier fallen ondeaf ears, hence this statutory arrangementthis time.Speaking to reporters after the meeting,Jaitley said all 57 issues raised so far hadbeen resolved and he added that theendeavour of the government would be totable the supporting legislations first beforethe cabinet committee and then beforeParliament in the second half of the Budgetsession, beginning March 9.However, the S-GST law will go before the
respective state legislatures before itspassage there, in tandem with the passage ofthe above three laws in Parliament.Earlier, the law ministry had sent theapproved draft of the Model GST Law(MGL) outlining the new national valueadded tax to be levied on goods and servicesacross the country, starting from July 1.The legal drafting of C-GST, I-GST and S-GST Bills has thrown up challenges relatingto constitution and eligibility of members ofthe GST appeal tribunal at the state andnational level, exemptions to be extendedduring the transition time and delegation ofpowers under GST for cross-empowerment.The other challenges include the treatmentof works contract - whether as deemed saleof goods or still as service, keeping in viewthat Article 366(29A) of the Constitution isstill in force; definition of agriculture andthe fine print of the composition schemewith some relaxation of requirements.The council has given its opinion on allthese issues with a view to writing them intothe model laws. The last task waiting to bedone after the council clears these bills willbe to fit goods and services into various taxbrackets/baskets to serve as a sound unified
tax scheme across the country, to integratethe economy into one nation and onemarket, and in some sense one rate alsowithin certain limits.This, he said, will require one more sittingof the council to give its approval to thespecific items in each slot.MS Mani, senior director at Deloitte, said itis now necessary to bring more focus on theoutcome of the rate fixation exercise asbusinesses can plan only if rates are known,and without knowing what rates are goingto be applied to specific goods and services,it will be very difficult for the industry tomove forward with GST preparations.Finally, coming to the accountability aspect,there was talk that even as indirect taxes ofthe Centre and states were under theauditing purview of Comptroller andAuditor General of India (CAG), if GST isalso placed under the ambit, Jaitley hasdecided against giving powers specificallywith respect to indirect tax.This is because CAG is already empoweredunder the CAG Act to audit therecords/information relating to publicfinances under taxation laws like theIncome Tax Act.
The FM had ended his press report on theabove matter with the clincher that thepresent direct tax law, that is the IncomeTax Act, has not given any separate powersto the CAG. So why should there beseparate powers under the new indirect taxalone? he asked.But the point is that under the existingindirect tax laws of excise, service tax andperhaps even under state VAT laws, thereappear to be powers given in the respectiveActs to the CAG.Andhra Pradesh finance minister YanamalaRamakrishnadu said that taking theterritorial waters as the territory of theUnion of India and to delegate powers tostates to collect tax is not the correctapproach being followed in drafting of therelevant provisions of the law.To the contrary, it would be appropriate todraft the law to treat the territorial waters asthe territory of states not just to collect taxbut to levy, collect and appropriate tax tostates, especially since the high court hasdecided in favour of the states. It is onceagain worthwhile to point out here that theappeal in the above matter is pending beforethe Supreme Court.Jaitley had agreed to refer the matter to thelaw committee of GSTC to examine themerits.It looks highly probable now that GST lawsare ready to be put before the GSTC in thenext meeting and thereafter, beforeParliament in the second half of the Budgetsession. There is nothing more to comewhich is unresolved now, at last in terms ofthe legislation, said Pratik Jain, Partner andleader at PwC.Let us sincerely hope we are through withthe GST legislations and the other attendantissues discussed so far.
Modifying PM’sMaternity Benefit Prog!
Keeping in view the financial constraints andenough resources, the central government hasfinally compelled to restrict the Maternity Benefit
Programme (MBP), which was part of Prime Minister'stelevised address on New Year's Eve to only the first childinstead of two as was earlier announced. Since theamount of Rs 2,700 crore set aside for MBP in the UnionBudget 2017-2018 was insufficient, the scheme providingrupees 6000 for each pregnant woman has now beenrevised to cater to the birth of the first child alone ratherthan the two as earlier planned. Law-abiding citizens,rationalists and tax-paying public had been much criticalof the announcement which was not at all necessary as itput unnecessary tax burden on the genuine citizens whofeels such schemes should be funded from otherresources.Despite tall claims, the polity in India has been sufferingfrom basic malaise for conceiving and making policies ofproviding freebies for petty political considerations andare thus in themselves are not proper. Such policies areeither for vote-bank politics or for hiding some unpopularsteps. It is indeed surprising why and how such anannouncement was made at a time India is amongst thecountries with problem of increasing population in acountry with limited land and resources. Any suchfreebies at central or state levels should be announcedonly after getting nod from some non-governmentalcentral agency to avoid political misuse. Goal should beto abolish subsidies and such existing freebies so as toreduce indirect burden in form of avoidable taxes forgetting money for such populist political schemes. It isotherwise also improper to make people used to freebiesrather than working hard to earn money. The mindsetneeds a positive change.
6 OPINION the northlinesJammu | Monday | Feb | 20 | 2017
the northlinesMonday | Feb | 20 | 2017
(Disclaimer: The views expressed here are personalopinions of the writers. The information, facts or opinionsappearing in the articles do not reflect the views of TheNorthlines and it does not assume any responsibility orliability for the same)
Good news: Contentious GST issues get resolved
The Indian Army is notasking for immunity
Nirbhay Fiasco - no need to be disheartened
7 KASHMIR the northlinesJammu | Monday | February 20| 2017
2 drug peddlers arrestedSrinagar, Feb 19Kulgam police arrested two drug peddlers andrecovered 04 kilograms of poppy straw from theirpossession during a naka checking.Kulgam police laid a naka near Nandi MargCrossing in the jurisdiction of Police Station D.HPora. During the naka checking two personidentified as Showkat Ahmad Bhat son of NazirAhmad and Sabzar Ahmad Malik son of Abdul Ganiresidents of Okay Kulgam were intercepted. Ontheir checking 04 kilograms of poppy straw wasrecovered from their possession.Kulgam police has registered a case FIR number06/2017 under section 8/25 NDPS Act against themand investigation was taken up.
2-day bookexhibition concludes Srinagar, Feb 19A 2-day book exhibition organized by Directorate ofSchool Education Kashmir concluded at Govt GirlsHigher Secondary School Kothibagh in Srinagartoday.Director School Education Kashmir, Kumar RajeevRanjan, who had inaugurated the exhibition, stressedthe teachers to inculcate the habit of book reading instudents. He said efforts are afoot to make librariesand book reading habit a living reality of education inKashmir. He said the department has entrusted theselection of books to experts of different subjectswho have been selected from the educationalinstitutions of the valley.During the exhibition, 50 book sellers and publishershad set up their stalls which were visited by a largenumber of students, teachers and general book lovers.
Status of rev, reliefmeasures reviewed
ANANTNAG, FEB 19Minister for Revenue, Relief & Rehabilitation, AbdulRehman Veeri, today convened a meeting to review thestatus of various revenue, relief and rehabilitationmeasures in Anantnag district. During the meeting, the Minister was briefed about therevenue profile of the district and was informed thatnew 268 patwar halqas have been proposed forAnantnag.Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah,apprised Veeri of the status of land acquisition casesunder different roads and developmental projects inthe district. Besides, the performance in Jamabandisand Girdawari preparation was also detailed in themeeting.With respect to State and Kahcharai land, it wasinformed that in Anantnag, as many as, 4389 kanal ofstate land and 9491 kanal of Kahcharia land has beencleared of encroachments, so far. It was also apprisedthat a mechanism to retrieve the encroached land hasbeen established wherein monthly report of landeviction is being reported to the FinancialCommissioner Revenue on regular basis.The meetingalso reviewed performance under Public ServicesGuarantee Act, Right to Information Act, disposal ofcases registered with State Vigilance Commission andState Vigilance Organisation and the remittance madeby the Department in terms of mutation fees, revenueextract fees and recoveries.ADDC, ADC, ACR, SDMs of Kokernag, Dooru andPahalgam, besides Tehsildars, Naib Tehsildars andother concerned attended the meeting.
District DevelopmentCommissioner, Mir AltafRs 627.79 crore Ahmad,today chaired 58th DistrictLevel Review Committeemeeting to review theprogress of line departmentsand Banks with respect toeconomic development ofthe district.Officers of concerneddepartments, DDMNABARD, representativesfrom RBI, Cluster Head ofJ&K Bank and District
Coordinators of variousBanks operating in thedistrict attended themeeting.The meeting discussed indetail progress andachievements made by theBanks in implementation ofvarious governmentsponsored schemes likePradhan Mantri Jan DhanYojana, MUDRA Yojana,Fasal Bhima Yojana, NULMand Stand-up India.Giving details aboutperformance of Banks, as onDecember 2016, operatingin the district, it was
informed that total depositsin the district have increasedfrom Rs 1624.26 crore to Rs1982.24 crore. Similarly,advances have increasedfrom Rs 1264.26 crore toRs.1330.63 crore, while asCD ratio is at 67.13% whichis 7.13 percent above theRBI bench mark.It was apprised that underpriority sector, the bankshave disbursed Rs 119.53crore against the target ofRs 508.80 crore and undernon-priority sector havedisbursed Rs148.68 croreagainst the target of Rs
155.22 crore, thusregistering the achievementof 23.57 percent and 95.78percent respectively againstthe annual targets.While reviewing theprogress achieved inCentral/State SponsoredSchemes and under SocialSecurity Schemes, the DDCappreciated the role ofsponsoring agencies andBanks for participating in theimplementation of schemesduring the month of Januaryand February-2017. He also directed officials ofBanks to expedite thesanctioning of pendingsponsored cases, as theyhave pivotal role ineconomic uplift of generaland weaker sections of thesociety.On the occasion, the DDCapproved Potential LinkedCredit Plan of Rs 627.79crore for fiscal year 2017-18.
DLRC meeting held
NL CorrespondentBudgam, Feb 19
A meeting of the SteeringCommittee of the CUCET-2017 consortium comprising11 Central Universities fromacross the country was heldat Gulmarg on Saturday. Seven Vice-Chancellors andrepresentatives of theseCentral Universitiesdiscussed and approved themodalities in respect of theupcoming CentralUniversities CommonEntrance Test (CUCET-2017). The admission noticefor the various programmesoffered by these universitiesis expected to be put onlineby the middle of March,2017 and entrance test istentatively scheduled for the3rd week of May. During themeeting, the decision of theCentral University ofKashmir to conduct the
admission tests for someintegrated programmes ontheir own immediatelyfollowing the declaration ofthe 12th class results wasappreciated keeping in viewthe interests of the studentsof the state. However, thestudents from the valleythrough CUCET 2017 couldhave additional option to optfor various other integratedprogrammes offered by theUniversities across thecountry.
The Vice-Chancellor of theCentral University ofKashmir, Prof. Mehraj udDin Mir impressed upon theconsortium to prepone theadmission processes of theCUCET 2017 in the interestof the students of the valleywhich was agreed upon. Theoption of conductingmultiple entrance teststhrough CUCET to cater todifferent academic calendarswas also discussedthreadbare and modus
operandi would be proposedin very near future.Prof Mehraj Ud Dinimpressed upon themembers of the Steeringcommittee to explore waysand means for providingmore opportunities to thestudents of the state of J&K.Besides partnering in thesmooth conduct of theadmission test of CUCET2017, the committee tooksome very importantdecisions to forge moreproductive alliance throughvarious academic initiativesincluding faculty andstudent exchangeprogrammes amongst theparticipating Universities.The members of thesteering committee thankedthe host university for thewarm hospitality extendedfor the successful conductof the meet.
Steering committee of CUCET holds meetingNL CorrespondentSrinagar, Feb 19
Minister for Public Works,Naeem Akhtar today calledfor employing latest projectmanagement techniques fortimely completion ofprojects in key sectors.Speaking at a reviewmeeting of the R&BDepartment Kashmir herethis morning, the Ministerset timeline for completionof all the ongoing projectswhile laying focus onquality execution of works
and adopting proper designmethodology.Chief Engineer R&BDepartment Kashmir, ChiefEngineer, MechanicalEngineering Department,Chief Engineer PMGSY,Superintending Engineersand Executive Engineers ofKashmir division werepresent at the meeting.The Minister took acomprehensive review ofthe projects being executedby the PWD in R&B,Health, Education and underCentrally Sponsored
Schemes.Mr Akhtar called forexpediting projects underNABARD and CRF forwhich funds to the tune ofRs 103.57 crore and Rs65.94 crore respectivelyhave been earmarked for thecurrent financial year. TheMinister directed officials tomake the process ofexecution of works hassle-free, saying that planning,construction, up-gradationand maintenance of roads,bridges and buildings mustbe the concern for all the
officials of the Department."Providing connectivity tounconnected habitations hasto be our first objective," hesaid and added that thePWD needs a professionaltouch and the Governmentwill do everything torevamp this vitaldepartment.The Minister asked theofficials to review the longpending construction anddevelopmental projects andadhere to the set deadlinesfor their completion.The Minister said thatinfrastructure deficit hasbeen persistent in the Statebecause of its topography.He said that PWD could bea vital department inbridging the gap and helpthe State to emerge on theinfrastructure front.
Progress of dev works reviewed
NL CorrespondentSrinagar, Feb 19
An amount of Rs 28.09crore has been spent onvarious developmentprojects and welfareschemes in the district upto January 2017.This was stated during areview meeting held underthe chairmanship ofDistrict DevelopmentCommissioner, SajadHussain, here today.The meeting took stock ofphysical and financialachievements registeredunder Health, Education,PHE, R&B, Power, RuralDevelopment, Irrigationand other sectors in thedistrict.It was informed that Rs
12.39 crore were incurredunder MGNREGA, Rs2.56 crore under RMSA,Rs 2.29 crore under R&Band Rs 1.39 crore underHealth.The DDC impressed uponthe officers to speed uptheir efforts and ensurecompletion of all ongoingdevelopmental workswithin the stipulatedperiod. He asked officersto submit their proposedplan for year 2017-18within next three days inview of upcoming DistrictDevelopment Boardmeeting. Among others, ChiefPlanning Officer, Districtand Sectoral Officers andother concerned attendedthe meeting.
1 dies, 1 injuredin road accidentsSrinagar Feb 19One person dies while another was injured inroad accidents in Valley on Sunday.According to sources, a scooty bearing regd.no. JK01R-0687 driven by MohammadShafi Wani S/o Mohammad Ismail WaniR/o Manigam, Ganderbal met with anaccident near Serch, resulting in on spotdeath of the scooty rider. After completionof medico legal formalities, the body of thedeceased was handed over his legal heirs forlast rites. Meanwhile, a Motorcycle drivenby Shahid Ahmad Wani R/o Shahabad,Kharpora turned turtle at Trali Bala near SubDistrict Hospital Tral, resulting in injuries tothe motorcyclist. The injured was shifted toSub District Hospital Tral for treatment,wherefrom he was shifted to SMHSHospital, Srinagar for further treatment.Police have registered cases in both theaccidents and initiated further proceedings.
Party Workers backboneof PDP: Rafi Mir
Anantnag, Feb 19Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) General Secretary RafiAhmad Mir lauded the efforts of the party cadres for theircommitment towards the party. "Our cadre has reposed faithin leadership of the party and our worker is the backbone ofthe party who have been playing a crucial role not only tostrengthen the PDP but making every effort to orient thepublic opinion on the possible roadmap which couldaddress the aspirations of the people of the State," PartyGeneral Secretary, Rafi Ahmad Mir said while addressing aworkers convention in Anantnag today. Mir said thatgovernment led by the Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti isworking on a series of reformative measures which willchange the entire governance discourse in the state. Theadministration is being made accountable and transparencyis ensured at every level," he added. Hailing the significantwelfare initiatives of Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti-ledgovernment Rafi Ahmad Mir appealed the public to becomethe part of peace and developmental process initiated by theChief Minister. Mir said his party is committed to thewelfare of the people of the state and the ranks of party wereworking tirelessly to implement its welfare agenda.He also asked the party workers to gear up for newchallenges on the ground. PDP political affairs committeemember and former MLA Peerzada Mansoor also spoke onthe occasion stating that PDP wants to channelize theenergy of youth towards the constructive purpose and theiroverall development". (KNS)
Rs 28.09 cr spent on devworks in Bandipora
NL CorrespondentBandipora, Feb 19
An extra ordinary session of Jammu& Kashmir Teachers forum wasconveyed under the chair ofChairman Ab. Qayoom Wani atJammu. The session welcomed andcongratulated Syed Altaf Bukhari forholding Port Folio of Education andit was hoped that Syed AltafBukhari. In a statement issued toKNS, Abdul Qayoom Wani said thatteacher's forum shall lend its fullsupport in bringing reforms in thedepartment and for the bright futureof the students. Wani said that we arehopeful that education Minister shallkeep in view the pulse andsensitivity of the department and putin all his capabilities to brighten thefuture of students and reforming thedepartment shall be the priorities andshall improve the image and will
leave no stone unturned to improvethe department. Wani said thatteachers are the builders of nation assuch deserve honor and respect, butunder the circumstances whenteachers are without pay for sixmonths and forcing their family's tostarvation is not less than a tragedy.Wani hoped that steps to release thepay of teachers shall be givenpriority so that there would be nofoul play with the honour self respectand future of their children. Leaderswho were present in the session wereGanesh Khajuria, Mohammad AkbarKhan, Mohammad Rafiq Rather,Mohammad Afzal Bhat, Showket AliBeigh, Peer Nisar, Toofani Singh,Gopal Singh, Jamaid Ali Agam,Bashir Ahmed Thoker, DarshanSharma, Kuldeep Singh, FarooqAhmed Sofi, Khalid Bashir,Muzaffar Ahmed Dar, Ali Bhato andothers. (KNS)
ADGP visits ArmedComplex Zewan
Srinagar, Feb 19Additional Director General of Police Armed J&K L.TMohanti visited Armed Complex Zewan where heinaugurated newly constructed building of Bore Well-2nd. This newly building of bore well was constructedthrough Estates APC Zewan. The ADGP wasaccompanied by Commandant JKAP 9th Battalion,Shailender Singh-SSP / Estates Commandant APCZewan and Commandant JKAP-12thBn Bakar Samoon.Among others Dy. Commandant JKAP 9th BnHamidullah Sheikh, Dy. Commandant JKAP-12th Bn Sh.Muneer Ahmad, DYSP, JKAP-9th Bn Devender Singh,DySP JKAP-9th Bn Sunil Singh, DYSP JKAP-9th BnFaraz Hussain, DySP JKAP-12th Bn Rigzin Sundop andother officers were also present on the occasion. (KNS)
JKTF congratulates Altaf BukhariNL CorrespondentSrinagar, Feb 19
Printed, Publish
8 FOODSthe northlines
Jammu | Monday | Feb | 20 | 2017
Recipes
Foods
Barley water, the best
We are in the health-conscious era. So
obsessed we are about our health and fitness
that we don't mind reading even disputed theories about health
benefits for all we want is to somehow be fit and
Despite all the half-truths populating our dieting
world about bananas being bad for weight loss,
nutritionists and dietitians swear by their energy
giving properties.
Like every other food and drink, bananas must be consumed in moderate quantities. Exercise regularly and relish them guilt-free! And if baked the right way, bananas can be your best friends in a figure-friendly diet. Here are three healthy baked banana recipes that will work perfectly for mid-evening snacks. Banana oats muffin Ingredients: 2 3/4cup mashed bananas, 2 tbs oil, 1 egg, 1/2cup fat-free milk, 3/4 tsp vanilla extract, 2/3cup whole-wheat flour, 1/2cup quick-cooking oats, 1/4cup sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt, cooking spray.
Protein-rich vegetable pulao
Office lunches tend to get boring with similar food making its way into our
lunch boxes every day. Take a break from the dals, rotis, burgers and sandwiches and
try this protein-rich vegetable pulao instead.
Not only will you gain crucial prote in to replenish and rejuvenate your muscles' wear and tear, but you will also enjoy the light brown rice flavoured with delicious, lightly sauteed vegetables and soya chunks. Por t ion cont ro l becomes important, since this is rice based, even though it is brown rice we're talking about. Try this simple, protein-rich vegetable pulao this weekend, and pack it along for a healthy and different lunch. Ingredients - 1 cup brown rice - washed and soaked - 2 cups chopped, mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower, broccoli)- 1 medium onion diced - 1/2 cup sprouts - 1/2 cup soya chunks - soaked and ready to cook - 1'' cinnamon stick - 1 tsp cloves - 1/2 tsp black peppercorns - 2 black cardamoms - 1 tsp red chill powder - Salt to taste - 2 cups water - 1 tbs Olive oil Method - Add the oil to a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. After a few seconds, add the onions and stir till the onions become light pink. - Add all the whole spices, along with the vegetables (not sprouts and soya). Stir well, and cook (covered, with 1/4 cup water) until the hardest vegetable (in this case carrots) is slightly tender. If you're short on time, skip the carrots. This should take about 5-8 minutes. - Add sprouts and soya and stir for 2-3 minutes. - Now, add the drained brown rice, with salt and chilli powder. You can also add any other favourite masalas at this point. Stir till the rice starts forming clumps.
Banana RecipesBanana
Healthy bakedHealthy baked
Recipes
Beverage
Method: Preheat oven to 375o. Mix all ingredients together - starting with the wet ingredients and then adding the dry ingredients. Pour into a baking tray. Bake for 18-20mins or until a wooden pick placed in the center comes out clean. Banana blueberry bread Ingredients: 1cup all-purpose flour, 1/2cup whole wheat flour, 3/4cup uncooked quick-cooking grits, 1/2cup sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp baking soda, 3 tbs oil, 1cup mashed banana, 3/4cup blueberries (a low-preservative blueberry jam will also do - reduce sugar if
using jam), 2 large eggs. Method: Preheat oven to 350°. Mix flours, grits, sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Then, make a well within the mixture and add oil, banana, blueberries, and eggs; add to flour mixture. Spoon the batter into a baking tray and place it in oven. Morning glory muffins Ingredients: 1cup whole wheat flour, 1/2cup all-purpose flour, 1cup regular oats, 3/4cup packed brown sugar, 1 tbs wheat bran, 2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1cup plain fat-free yogurt, 1cup mashed banana, 1 large egg, 1cup chopped dates, 3/4cup chopped walnuts, 1/2cup chopped dried pineapple, 3 tbs
ground flaxseed. Method: Preheat oven to 350°. Combine all ingredients (starting with wet, and then adding dry). Now throw in walnuts, dates and pineapple. Pour into baking tray and bake at 350 degree for 20mins. Banana corn muffins Ingredients: 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana, 1/2 cup of 2% reduced-fat milk, 1 pack of corn muffin mix and cooking spray. Method: Preheat oven to 350°. Combine milk, corn mix and banana and mix it in a bowl. Pour the batter evenly into a muffin baking tray. Bake at 350 degree for 20 minutes and your yummy banana corn muffins are ready to be served hot!
- Then, add the 2 cups of water and bring the whole pot to a boil. After the boil, simmer and cook covered, till the rice is cooked - usually another 8 minutes. You can serve this simple protein-rich vegetable pulao with some skimmed yogurt, a side salad or some grilled fish. Remember to practise portion control. A good serving size would be approximately 80gms, which is essentially the size of a quarter plate. Enjoy!
Slowly, people are waking up to the fact that home remedies are any day better compared to chemical products. So here's something that has existed since our ancestor's times, but we have given it a royal ignore. Wonder what it is? Well, it's the barley seeds. The moment you say barley, the first thing that comes to your mind is beer. But have you ever wondered how healthy barley itself is? The best thing is the seeds are available throughout the year and is the cheapest among all cereals. Here are ways in which you can consume barley. Yes, you have heard that before. Drinking beer has always made you run to the loo a little more frequently than you generally do. Drinking barley water, on the other hand, also induces increased urination which means it flushes out the toxins in the body. Barley water is hence the best medicine when you have a Urinary Tract Infection. Boil a table spoon of barley seeds in a litre of water. Bring down the quantity to half and keep consuming barley water through out the day. Barley water also brings down the heat content in the body. In some countries, people consume barley rice during summer for its cooling properties. - It also works as an excellent substitute to aerated drinks to quench your thirst. - Barley water also helps reduce burning sensation in the stomach as it's a cooling agent - Barley water also prevents urine from stinking. This works in case of pregnant women or patients who are on hormone tablets. - Regular consumption of barley water cleanses your kidney and keeps it free of toxins. - If you don't enjoy the bland taste, then you could add a dash of lemon to the drink A study conducted by American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has shown that the fiber that comes from barley water lowers
cholesterol. Hence, this is a must-have drink for fitness freaks. The insoluble fiber is also known to help women prevent formation of gallstones. Barley water also cuts risk of Type-2 diabetes. The antioxidants in barley prevents cancerous growths. Consume a glass of hot barley water everyday for better digestion and fight constipation or feeling of nausea. Regular consumption of barley water has shown to help weight loss too. With its many benefits, barley water is definitely the best beverage. The next time you reach for a bottle of aerated drink, you know what's more healthier.
Nation the northlinesJammu | Monday | Feb. 20 | 20179
New Delhi: The Supreme
Court has declined a plea by
a Pakistani national seeking
extension of visa to stay in
India, saying it is a call to
be taken by the Executive.
A bench headed by Justice
Dipak Misra said it cannot
allow the request of Syed
Waseem Ur Rehman, a Sufi
cleric, who had approached
the apex court against a
Bombay High Court order
asking him and his wife to
leave India.
"That (extension of visa)
will be a call to be taken by
the Executive. We cannot
extend visa if the
government is not doing it,"
the bench, also comprising
Justices R Banumathi and
Mohan M Shantanagoudar,
said.
Rehman's lawyer had
pleaded to the bench that
the government be asked to
take a "compassionate view"
in the matter as there was
no adverse report against
him or his wife.
The counsel had also argued
that since Rehman is
practising Sufism, there is a
threat to him in Pakistan.
The apex court did not
accept the contentions and
said it was for the
government to take such a
decision.
His counsel had also
contended that Rehman
should be granted time to
make a representation
before the government in
the matter but the bench
said, "We cannot allow it."
Solicitor General Ranjit
Kumar, representing the
Centre, opposed the plea
and told the bench that the
couple had given an
undertaking before the high
court that they would leave
India. The couple have been
staying in India since
October 2010.
The high court had
dismissed their plea against
last year's order of
Mumbai's foreigner regional
registration officer who had
refused to extend their visa.
SC declines Pak national's plea seekingextension of visa to stay in India
Chandigarh: Haryana is onthe edge as the ongoing Jatagitation seeking reservationin education and governmentjobs has once again raisedthe spectre of last year'sviolence that killed 30people.
Members of the Jatcommunity have been sittingon dharnas in 19 of thestate's 22 districts sinceJanuary 29.The fresh protests come at atime when Haryana isobserving golden jubilee ofits formation.
The images of mobs settinghouses, schools, eateries andother places on fire duringlast year's quota agitation arestill fresh in public memory.The Delhi-Ambala NationalHighway, the gateway fortravel to Punjab, Jammu and
Kashmir and HimachalPradesh, had remainedblocked for days.The Manohar Lal Khattargovernment had drawn flakfrom various quarters,including the opposition, forits alleged inept handling ofthe situation last year.
A complete breakdown ofthe official machinery waswitnessed between February19 and 22 last year.As many as 1,196 shopswere set ablaze, 371 vehiclestorched, 30 schools/collegeswere burnt, 75 houses wereset on fire, 53hotels/marriage palaces weredevastated, 23 petrol pumpswere attacked andvandalised, the committeehad observed in its report.An industry body hadpegged the loss at around Rs34,000 crore in last year'sviolence.Jats are demandingreservation in governmentjobs and educationalinstitutions, besideswithdrawing of criminalscases registered againstseveral youths of thecommunity during last year,release of those lodged injail, compensation andgovernment jobs to the nextof kin of those killed in lastyear's agitation.
Jat agitation raises spectreof last year's violence
Lucknow: Samajwadi Party
patriarch Mulayam Singh
today dismissed Prime
Minister Modi's claim that
he was the "adopted son of
Uttar Pradesh", saying the
state has adopted the
Samajwadi Party. The Prime
Minister's claim has drawn a
lot of criticism from the
opposition, with Congress's
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to
RJD chief Lalu Prasad
rushing to comment on the
matter.
Asked what he has to say
about PM Modi's comment
after he cast his vote in
family turf Etawah,
Mulayam Singh said, "He
can say whatever he wants...
Uttar Pradesh has adopted
the Samajwadi Party".
On Thursday, speaking at a
rally in Hardoi, PM Modi
had drawn a parallel with
Lord Krishan, saying,
"Krishna was born in Uttar
Pradesh but made Gujarat
his karma bhoomi. I was
born in Gujarat but Uttar
Pradesh has adopted me".
He had added that he would
always care for Uttar
Pradesh and would not let
its people down.
The BJP, which had swept
70 of the state's 80 Lok
Sabha seats in the 2014
elections, is hoping for huge
wins in the state, where it
has not been in power for
20 years. PM Modi, who
had won from the country's
holiest pilgrim centre,
Varanasi, had retained it,
dropping the other seat from
where he won - Gujarat's
Vadodara.
But his comment, an attack
on the partnership of sons of
the soil Akhilesh Yadav and
Rahul Gandhi, drew a
riposte from Priyanka
Gandhi. "UP doesn't need an
adopted son to do good for
the state. Rahul Gandhi and
Akhilesh Yadav are two
sons of UP," Ms Gandhi
said at Raebareli, her
mother and Congress
President Sonia Gandhi's
parliamentary constituency.
Ms Gandhi has been
credited by her party with
piloting the alliance with
Samajwadi Party after it had
hit an impasse over seat
division in Gandhi family
turf Amethi and Raebareli.
The BJP has labeled Mr
Gandhi and Mr Yadav the
"shehzaade" or princes,
accusing them of a direct
and privileged access to
power because they belong
to political dynasties.
'Let Modi talk UP adopted SP : Mulayam
New Delhi: Prime
Minister Narendra Modi
on Sunday appealed to
the voters to participate
and come forward in
large numbers to cast
their votes.
The third phase of Uttar
Pradesh Assembly
elections began on
Sunday morning.
"Today is the third phase
of Uttar Pradesh
elections. I request the
voters to participate in
the festival of democracy
and vote in large
number," Prime Minister
Modi tweeted.
With over 826 candidates
from 105 political parties
contesting for 69 seats,
polling began on Sunday
morning for the crucial
third phase of the Uttar
Pradesh Assembly
Elections.
The polling began at 7
a.m. and will continue
till 5 in the evening.
Polling parties have been
sent to polling centers
amid tight security.
The districts going for
polling in this phase are
Farrukhabad, Hardoi,
Kannauj, Mainpuri,
Etawah, Kanpur, Kanpur
Dehat, Auraiya,
Lucknow, Unnao, Sitapur
and Barabanki.
Elaborate security
arrangements have been
made for the smooth
functioning of the
polling process.
Borders of districts have
been put under
surveillance and heavy
deployment of forces for
round the clock checking
is made.
UUUUttttttttaaaarrrr PPPPrrrraaaaddddeeeesssshhhh AAAAsssssssseeeemmmmbbbbllllyyyy eeeelllleeeeccccttttiiiioooonnnnssss 2222000011117777
Participate largely in festivalof democracy: PM to voters
Lucknow: Union Home
Minister Rajnath Singh
has claimed that his party
BJP is winning the Uttar
Pradesh Assembly
elections 2017.
" Not only clear majority,
BJP is winning by
absolute majority in Uttar
Pradesh," Rajnath Singh
said after casting vote in
Lucknow.
Union Home Minister
Rajnath Singh on Sunday
cast his vote here in the
third phase of the Uttar
Pradesh assembly
election.
Accompanied by his wife
Savitri Singh, the Home
Minister cast his vote at
the PWD polling station.
Earlier on Sunday, his son
and Bharatiya Janata Party
candidate from Noida,
Pankaj Singh cast also his
vote in Lucknow and
claimed an overwhelming
support from the BJP.
BJP is winning by absolute
majority in UP elections: Rajnath
New Delhi: Prime Minister
Narendra Modi paid tribute
to Chhatrapati Shivaji
Maharaj on his birth
anniversary on Sunday
expressing his gratitude to
the Maratha warrior for
having taken birth here.
"I bow to Chhatrapati
Shivaji Maharaj on his
Jayanti.
India is proud that a
valorous and great soul like
him was born on our land."
"Shivaji Maharaj placed
wellbeing of his people
above everything.
He was an ideal ruler
blessed with exceptional
administrative skills," Modi
said.
PM lauds 'warrior' Chhatrapati
Shivaji Maharaj on birth anniversary
New Delhi: The Supreme
Court has pulled up the
Centre for "making money"
at the cost of citizens' health
by allowing dumping in
India of hazardous waste
from foreign countries.
A bench headed by Chief
Justice J S Khehar termed
the issue as "important" and
said the authorities cannot
bypass the regulations as the
people of the country are
facing the consequences.
The apex court also refused
to give much time to the
Centre for filing a response
to the plea seeking to curb
the dumping of hazardous
waste in India from other
countries.
Advocate Sanjay Parekh,
appearing for NGO
Research Foundation for
Science, claimed that
authorities were giving
permission and allowing
disposal of hazardous and
contaminated materials in
India which is affecting the
citizens' health.
He argued that rules and
norms were not being
followed despite several
directions by the apex court.
Earlier, on the NGO's plea,
the apex court had denied
permission to a foreign ship,
which was involved in one
of the worst-ever oil spills
off Alaska in 1989, to
anchor off the Gujarat coast
for dismantling.
The NGO had alleged that
the ship was contaminated
and that the 1989 Basel
Convention made it
mandatory for a ship to be
decontaminated at the port
of the exporting country
before being sent for
dismantling.
The Basel Convention had
come up in 1989 following
an outcry over toxic wastes
being exported to the
developing countries.
SC raps Centre on dumping
of hazardous water in India
New Delhi: Delhi Police
has managed to install just
over 4,000 CCTV cameras
in the past eight years even
though the issue of women
safety remains a cause for
concern.
In 2016, the force managed
to put up just 85
surveillance cameras despite
the crime rate going up by
over nine per cent as against
the previous year in the
national capital, which has a
population of over 1.67
crore.
The Ministry of Home
Affairs had in 2008
awarded the work of
installation of CCTV
surveillance system in
different market places and
border check-posts in
phases, according to the
annual report of Delhi
Police.
"A total of 4,074 CCTV
cameras have already been
installed at various locations
in different phases. 85
cameras were installed in
2016," said the report.
CCTV cameras have also
been installed by Delhi
Police in the Supreme
Court, the Delhi High
Court, five district courts,
VP House, the LG's House
and the Home Minister's
residence.
A revised detailed project
report of the "Safe City
Project", which will utilise
'Nirbhaya Fund', was sent to
the Expenditure Finance
Committee on December 2,
2016.
It has proposed installation
of 10,000 CCTV cameras at
an estimated cost of Rs
1,225.74 crore.
Delhi Police installs 4000 CCTV cameras
even though women safety remains cause
New Delhi: Bhojpuri movie
star Ravi Kishan on Sunday
joined BJP.
Ravi Kishan joined the
saffron party in presence of
party president Amit Shah.
"Have come to the party
that thinks for the poor, my
focus is on development not
on insulting others," Ravi
Kishan said after joining
BJP. Earlier, BJP MP Manoj
Tiwari had confirmed that
Kishan will join the party.
Bhojpuri actor joins BJP
New Delhi: Former Chief
Justice of India Altamas
Kabir passed away at a
Kolkata hospital after
suffering from prolonged
illness on Sunday afternoon.
Kabir was unwell for
sometime and was admitted
at city's Apollo Hospital
where he was undergoing
treatment.
Earlier, some reports stated
that Kabir passed away on
Sunday morning. However,
Apollo Hospital released a
statement soon after and
clarified that Kabir has been
undergoing treatment and is
severely unwell.
"He is on a life support
system since his condition is
very critical," former
Supreme Court judge Ashok
Ganguly, who was present
at the hospital, told the
media.
"He is suffering from a
kidney-related ailment,"
Justice (retd) Ganguly, also
a close friend of Justice
(retd) Kabir, said.
Kabir was enrolled as an
Advocate in 1973 and
practiced in the District
Court and the Calcutta High
Court on Civil and Criminal
sides.
He was appointed as a
permanent Judge of the
Calcutta High Court in 1990
and as the Chief Justice of
the Jharkhand High Court in
2005. In the same year in
September, he was elevated
to the Supreme Court.
Former Chief Justice
Altamas Kabir passes away
Guwahati: No toilet, no
nikah. Maulvis and muftis
in Haryana, Himachal
Pradesh and Punjab have
decided not to solemnise
marriage in a house where
there is no toilet.
Maulana Mahmood A
Madani, secretary general
of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind
said having a toilet has
been made a mandatory
condition for Muslim
marriage in the three states
and will be soon be applied
in all other states in the
country.
"Maulvis and muftis in
Himachal Pradesh, Punjab
and Haryana have decided
that they will not solemnise
the 'nikah' or Muslim
marriage in a house where
there are no toilets," he
said.
Madani, who is also a
former Rajya Sabha MP,
stated this during the
inauguration of Assam
Conference on Sanitation
(ASCOSAN) 2017
conducted here in
Khanapara last week.
"I feel that all religious
leaders from all the
religion throughout the
country should decide that
they will not conduct any
rituals in houses where
there are no toilets," he
said.
Emphasising on cleanliness
and sanitation, he asked
people to use toilets and
also to make not only
Assam, but the country as a
whole clean.
"There are two types of
cleaning - one is external
and the other internal. Both
are interconnected, we will
only be able to achieve the
internal cleaning if our
body is clean," he said.
No nikah in houses without toilets
New Delhi: From next
month, people in select
cities will be able to apply
for passports in post offices
under an ambitious initiative
of the External Affairs
Ministry.
This is aimed at making the
passport issuance process
hassle-free and ease burden
on passport offices across
the country which are
grappling with large volume
of applications.
In the first phase of the
project, passport services
will be made available in
select post offices in
Rajasthan, West Bengal,
Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and
Jharkhand and some other
states.
The External Affairs
Ministry, which issues
passports, is making all
required arrangements for
rollout of the scheme in
some of the select cities in
first half of March.
Currently, 89 Passport Seva
Kendras (PSK) are
operating across the country
as extended arms of the 38
Passport Offices.
According to the MEA, the
government rendered 1.15
crore passport and
other related
services
during
2016.
In Rajasthan,
passport services will be
available in Kota, Jaisalmer,
Bikaner, Jhunjhunu and
Jhalawar while in West
Bengal it will be in Asansol,
Nadia, North Dinajpur
North Kolkata.
In Jharkhand, services will
be offered in Deoghar,
Jamshedpur and Dhandbad.
"It is our effort that Post
Office Passport Sewa
Kendras announced in the
first phase should start
functioning before
31.3.2017," External Affairs
Minister Sushma Swaraj
tweeted.
In Tamil Nadu, passport
services in post office will
be rolled out in Salem
and Vellore while in
Karnataka, it will
be in Belgaum,
Davangere,
Hassan,
Gulbarga and
Mysuru.
According to
MEA, the
objective of the government
has been to cater to the
demand for passports and to
reach out to the people
located far away from the
passport offices.
The MEA had recently
liberalised norms for certain
categories of citizens as part
of efforts to streamline the
passport issuance process.
Apply for passports at select
post offices from March
10 SPORTS the northlinesJammu | Monday | Feb. 20 | 2017
New Delhi: In what would
come out as a bitter blow to
the Indian cricket fraternity,
MS Dhoni has reportedly
been removed as the captain
of IPL outfit Rising Pune
Supergiants, with Steve
Smith expected to lead the
side for the 10th edition of
the cash-rich league.
The captaincy change for the
2nd bottom team of IPL
2016 came came just one
day before the auction for
the 2017 season.
ANI revealed that the team
management wasn't happy
with MS Dhoni's captaincy
and hence chose to name
Steve Smith as the skipper.
Sources confirm that Dhoni
has also been communicated
about the decision by the
franchise and he has
extended his full co-
operation to the team as well
as their decision to replace
him with the Australian
national team skipper.
Under Dhoni, RPS only
managed to win only five of
their 14 matches in the IPL 9
and the management wasn't
too keen on giving Dhoni
another season as the team's
skipper. On a personal level,
Dhoni only scored 284 runs
from 12 innings with only
one fifty to his credit.
The Pune franchise,however,
are yet to give a
confirmation on the news
but several media reports
have suggest that Mahi will
no longer be in charge of the
team for the 10th edition of
Indian Premier League.
It was later clarified that MS
Dhoni himself asked the
team management to step
him down as captain and
wanted to be part of the
team as player only.
The 35-year-old, who led
Chennai Super Kings for
nine editions starting from
the league's inaugural season
in 2008, recently decided to
quit ODI captaincy and hand
bandwagon of all three
formats to Virat Kohli.
IPL 2017: Smith replaces Dhoni as
captain of Rising Pune Supergiants
New Delhi: Following the
footsteps of Indian boxing
sensation Vijender Singh,
Olympic Quarterfinalists
Akhil Kumar and Jitender
Kumar are all set to make
their profession debut.
Both the boxers will likely to
make their pro debut in
Mumbai on April 1.
The fight night will see Akhil
and Jitender`s return to the
ring after a long time. Akhil
and Jitender, who are serving
as Deputy Superintendent of
police with Haryana
Government, have recently
got the permission to turn
professional.
Both the effervescent
Haryana-lads have formally
signed up with the IOS
Boxing Promotions here
today. Commonwealth
Games 2006 Gold medalist
and Beijing Olympics.
Quarterfinalist boxer Akhil
Kumar, who spearheaded the
Indian boxing contingent at
numerous international
tournaments for years,
including World Cup (2008)
where he won a bronze
medal, has represented
country in nearly 250 bouts
during his amateur career.
Talking on his decision to
turn pro, Akhil said, "I am
very grateful to the
authorities for granting me
permission to turn towards
pro boxing.
It is going to be a very
exciting new phase in my
boxing career, with our
promoter Neerav Tomar."
Olympians Akhil and Jitender set tomake Pro-Boxing debuts in April
While the maximum squad strength can be
27, most franchises like to keep squad base
between 22 and 24. There will be a strong
focus on buying uncapped Indian players
with eight franchises gearing up to pick a
maximum of 76 out of the 350 plus, who will
go under the hammer at the auction for the
10th Indian Premier League, here tomorrow.
This is the last auction of the 10-year cycle
after which all players are set to go back into
the auction pool. While the maximum squad
strength can be 27, most franchises like to
keep squad base between 22 and 24.
The base price ranges from Rs 10 Lakh to Rs
2 crore and there could be a clamour for
uncapped Indian players based on their
performances during the recent Syed
Mushtaq Ali Trophy. It will be interesting if
Test specialist Ishant Sharma, not one of the
most sought after players in the shortest
format, invites bidders at a premium base
price of Rs 2 crore. At his base price and his
erratic bowling in the format, Ishant is a
tricky pick. Being a current India player is
his only USP as franchises also need faces
for brands to invest in them.
But Irfan Pathan, now dubbed as an 'IPL
specialist' with a base price of Rs 50 lakh and
his all-round abilities, can get a few bids.
Fast bowler Varun Aaron, with a reasonable
Rs 30 lakh base price, is expected to attract
bidders.
Among the uncapped Indian players, young
performers like Jharkhand batsman Virat
Singh and teenage sensation Prithvi Shaw
(both Rs 10 lakh) can attract good bids.
Rookie left-arm speedsters T Natarajan of
Tamil Nadu, Kulwant Khejroliya of Delhi
along with right-arm pacer Basil Thampi of
Kerala could also invite good bids.
All three are in the lowest base price bracket
of Rs 10 lakh.
Khejroliya and Natarajan have appeared for
trials at multiple franchises and Thampi
bowls at 140 clicks regularly with an ability
to hit the blockhole during death overs.
A clutch of top England players, including
dashing all-rounder Ben Stokes, limited-
overs skipper Eoin Morgan (back in auction)
and hard-hitting opener Jason Roy have
entered the fray but in all likelihood will only
be available for the month of April.
Focus on uncapped Indians,
Afghans, 1 month slot for Eng, WI
Chandigarh: Kalinga
Lancers displayed rampaging
form as they decimated
Punjab Warriors 7-0 to seal a
semifinal berth in the fifth
edition of the Hockey India
League here today.
The home side, thus, lost its
second successive match
here.
Kalinga Lancers have been
one of the most consistent
teams in the league this
season and they continued
their good show by getting a
lead early in the game.
It was skipper Moritz Fuerste
who created a PC in the 9th
minute of the match but a
miss trap by Adam Dixon
almost seemed like the
chance would go waste.
But Dixon was quick to
make up for the error by
fetching the rebound, only to
ambitiously drive into the
striking circle beating
defenders Mark Gleghorne
and Varun Kumar to send a
fiercely struck ball past in-
form keeper Tristan
Clemons.
The visitors ended the first
quarter with a strong 2-0
lead.
When the two teams met
earlier in the league in
Bhubaneswar, Kalinga
Lancers enjoyed a narrow 6-
5 win.
Kalinga Lancers crush Jaypee
Punjab Warriors 7-0 in HIL
New Delhi: Thirteen-year-
old Japanese sensation
Tomokazu Harimoto ended
Sharath Kamal's impressive
run at the ITTF World Tour
India Open, surprising the
home hero in the men's
singles semifinals here
today. The reigning Junior
World Champion showed
exemplary skills to outplay
his 34-year-old opponent 11-
7, 5-11, 11-7, 11-13, 11-9,
11-9 in a late night match at
the Thyagaraj Sports
Complex.
The loss notwithstanding, it
was a memorable
tournament for Kamal who
reached his first ITTF World
Tour semifinal since the
series (formerly called Pro
Tour) was rechristened in
2012.
The Japanese, on the other
hand, has had a dream run
and meets top seed Dimitrij
Ovtcharov in the final
tomorrow.
Harimoto took Kamal by
surprise from the outset with
his speed and agility around
the table. The boy whipped
winners at will and his over
the table forehand flicks
came at lightening speeds.
Kamal knew he had to slow
things down to make a
match out of it. The Indian
did just that and with more
accuracy in his drives, took
an 8-2 lead in the second
game before leveling the
match.
13-year-old Japanese stops
Sharath's rich run at India Open
Virat Kohli is in the midst of
a golden run both as a
batsman and as skipper of
the Indian cricket team.
Kohli recently created
history when he became the
first batsman in history to
score a double ton in four
consecutive series. Under
his captaincy, India have
continued their winning run
after registering his sixth
consecutive series win as
full-time captain.
Recently, the Indian skipper
shared a photo on his official
Instagram account where he
revealed the source that
changed his life. In the
photo, Kohli showed a book
the ‘Autobiography of a
Yogi’ written by Paramhansa
Yogananda. In the caption he
wrote, “I love this book. A
must read for all those who
are brave enough to let their
thoughts and ideologies be
challenged. The
understanding and
implementation of the
knowledge in this book will
change your whole
perspective and life. Believe
in the divine and keep
marching on doing good
deeds.” Autobiography of a
Yogi is an autobiography of
Paramahansa Yogananda
which was first published in
1946. The book is an
introduction to the methods
of attaining God-realization
and it showcases the life of
Paramahansa Yogananda
and his encounters with
spiritual figures of both the
East.
Kohli reveals the inspiring
source that changed his life
Jannu, Feb 19
A friendly T20 cricket match
was played between SDM
Eleven and principal Boys
higher secondary school
NSR eleven today at Boys
higher secondary school
NSR in which SDM eleven
NSR defeated BHSS NSR
by 60 Runs. After winning
the toss SDM eleven decided
to bat first they scored 180
runs for the loss of 6 wickets.
Harbans Lal Sharma SDM
NSR scored 35 Runs wth the
help of 5 boundary while
Riaz Ahmed scored 60 Runs
with the help of 3 sixes and 7
fours. Amir and Rakesh
Choudhary was the most
successful Bowlers for
BHSS NSR both took 2
wickets each...Chasing 9
runs per over BHSS NSR
made a poor start by losing 3
wickets for 20 runs. Shafik
was the main scoorer for
BHSS NSR who scored 75
runs with the help of 7 sixes
and 5 fours. He hit 5sixes in
1 over.
Billa and mosam was the
main bowler for SDM eleven
they took 3 wickets each.
BHSS NSR scored 120 runs
in allotted 20 overs for the
loss of 7 wickets. Speaking
on the occasion MR Harbans
Lal Sharma SDM NSR
asked the students to take
part in games and sports to
keep them self physically fit
which is the dire need of the
time...MR Rakesh
Choudhary Physical
education master Conducted
the proceedings.
Friendly T20 cricket match played betweenSDM Eleven and Principal BHSS NSR Eleven
JAMMU, Feb 19
Sumiya Kousar of
M o u n t a i n e e r i n g
Association of J&K left
today for Delhi to
participate in an Eco
Cycling Expedition from
Delhi to Kathmandu
(Nepal). She is among the
five girls selected across the
country for this prestigious
expedition.
The expedition being
organized by 'Stand With
Girls', an NGO shall start
from Delhi on March one
and conclude at Kathmandu
on March 15. Prior to the
commencement of the
expedition, Sumiya shall
attend a 10-day coaching
cum practice camp at Delhi.
It will be the first time that
such a cycling expedition
exclusively for girls is
being organized.
Immediately after her
selection in the cycling
expedition Sumiya had met
Chief Minister, Mehbooba
Mufti, who encouraged her
to do her best in the
expedition and bring laurels
to the state. Chief Minister
also promised her all
possible help in the shape of
equipment and financial
assistance.
However, Sumiya has been
sponsored by Government
College for Women (GCW)
Parade, Jammu in which
she is studying. Meanwhile,
participants of a sport
climbing coaching camp
which Sumiya was
attending at Sprawling
Buds School, Ban Talab,
here gave her an emotional
send off and wished her all
success.
It may be mentioned here
that Sumiya is an upcoming
climber of Mountaineering
Association of J&K who
had recently won a silver
medal in the North Zone
Sport Climbing competition
held at Delhi.
Prominent among others
who attended the send off
included general secretary,
Ram Khajuria and joint
secretary of Mountaineering
Association of J&K,
Shawetica Khajuria; vice
president. Yogeshwar
Kumar; Executive
members, Rakesh Goswami
and Sonam Sidharth; trainer
Shashi Kant Sharma and
climbers Ambreen Fatima,
Sakshi Magotra, Deepika
Dutta and Juhi Jamwal.
Somiya leaves for Delhi to take partin cycling expedition
JAMMU, Feb 19
Jammu district men and Jammu Red
women claimed the title trophies in
the IV State Handball Championship
held under the banner of J&K
Handball Association at MA Stadium,
here today.
In the men's final, Jammu district
trounced the young side of STC
Jammu 31-16 by a comfortable
margin. Rahul remained top scorer
from winning side of Jammu with 11
goals to his credit.
Similarly, in women's title clash,
Jammu Red defeated district
Udhampur 19-03 making it a one-
sided contest. Kashish Baru played
fine game for the Jammu Red netting
nine goals. The finals were officiated
by the technical penal comprising
Gaurav Sharma, Vikram Dogra,
Chander Shekhar, Bhawna and Kartar
Dogra.
In the finals and prize distribution
function Member Legislative
Assembly (MLA), Sat Sharma was
chief guest, who gave away the title
trophies as also other individuals
prizes and medals. President of the
J&K Handball Association, SM Bali
and former India Handball captain,
SP Ranjit Singh, Krishan Lal,
Mohammaed Ashraf Parry were
among other distinguished gathering.
Earlier, general secretary of the
Association, Ashwani Kumar Raina
welcomed the distinguished guests
and presented a brief note on the
championship.
Jammu men, Jammu Red womenclaim Handball titles
Simula wins in KCSC Cup JAMMU, Feb 19
Simula Cricket Club today registered a fine six wickets win
against Whites Cricket Club in the ongoing KC Sports Club
(KCSC) Cup Cricket Tournament, here.
Earlier, batting first, Whites Club made 116 runs for seven
wickets in given 20 overs. Rahul, Rohit and Manik were
main contributors to the total with 25, 18, 17 runs in their
respective accounts. From Simula, Shabir, Bobby and
Shashi claimed three, two and one wicket respectively.
In reply, Simula chased the target of 117 runs in 15.5 overs
losing their four wickets. Yuvraj Saini played fine innings of
50 runs coming off just 32 deliveries while Shashi and Hilal
Rather contributed 32 nad 24 runs respectively. Raja and
Deppu bagged two and one wicket respectively from
Whites Club. For his match wining innings of half century,
Yuvraj was declared man of the match.
Jammu, Feb 19
Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
today, inaugurated the
district Level Football
Tournament (DLFT) at
Sports Stadium Samba.
While addressing the
gathering, DC Samba said
that Sashastra Seema Bal
(SSB) doing their duty on
border, and internal
security very bravely as
well as played a vital role
in Civic Action programme
like veterinary medical
camp, medical camp and
Community welfare
programmes, which is
organized by SSB time to
time. In this tournament in
total six teams of district
Samba are participating.
First match will be played
between Sangwali Football
Club and Narsingh
Football Club. Tournament
will be concluded on 21
February. In the opening
ceremony of the
tournament, DC Samba,
Sheetal Nanda (IAS) was
the chief guest. The
tournament is organized in
the presence of DIG R.K.
Bhumbla, SSB Sector H.Q.
Sronagar Srinagar and DIG
Manvendra Negi SSB
Sector H.Q. Jammu.
During this programme
S.B Chand Officiating
Commandant 7th BN SSB
told about the working
culture of Sashastra Seema
Bal (SSB) and it's various
programmes conducted by
the SSB in their Own Area
Of Responsibility (AOR).
S.B Chand Officiating
Commandant 7th BN,
Neeraj Thappa Deputy
Commandant, Ravi
Shankar Kumar Asst.
Commandant, Rajesh
Kajoor Asstm
Commandant and Sushil
Kumar, District Sports
Officer and several others
were present on the
occasion.
SSB inaugurates football tourney
BUSINESSthe northlines
Jammu | Monday | Feb. 20 | 201711
New Delhi: India may be
able to meet all its energy
requirements from
resources from the Moon by
2030, said Dr Sivathanu
Pillai, a professor at the
Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO).
Elaborating on ISRO's
future programme plans,
Pillai, who was formerly
the chief of BrahMos
Aerospace, said all of
India's energy requirements
could be met through
Helium 3 mined from the
Moon.
Pillai said that mining lunar
dust, which is rich in
Helium 3, is a priority
programme for his
organisation.
He said that ISRO was
planning the whole of
process of mining Helium
from the Moon, producing
energy and transporting it
back to earth.
Pillai also said that creating
low cost access to the Moon
and developing multi-
purpose and reusable
vehicles would help in a big
when it comes to intra-
planetary mining and space
tourism.
Lieutenant General PM
Bali, director general of
Perspective Planning,
Indian Army, said that the
launch of GSAT-7, India's
first dedicated military
satellite, was testimony to
its outlook towards
utilisation and exploitation
of outer space for national
security.
He pointed out that at
present, India possesses one
of the largest constellations
of communication and
remote sensing satellites
covering the Asia Pacific.
Lt Gen Bali also said that
though India continues with
a civilian orientation to its
space programme, the
changing regional and
global realities require it to
also develop military assets
in space and on ground, as
an emerging regional and
global power.
The third ORF-Kalpana
Chawla Space Policy
Dialogue had discussions
on 'Space Finance',
'Transponder Capacity for
Broadcasting and
Broadband over India',
'Collective Governance of
the Global Commons',
'Derivatives Space-scoping
the Downstream
Applications', 'Emerging
Space Actors', 'Making the
Case for India's Space
Policy', 'A New Frontier:
Boosting India's Military
Presence in Outer Space'
and 'Space Sustainability
and Global Governance'.
India to get all its energyfrom the moon by 2030
New Delhi: Overseas
investors have pumped in
over Rs 9,500 crore (USD
1.4 billion) into the country's
capital markets this month so
far, enthused by clarity on
FPI taxation. The latest
inflow followed a net pullout
of Rs 80,310 crore from
equity and debt together in
the past four months
(October-January). Prior to
that, FPIs had invested over
Rs 20,000 crore in the capital
market in September 2016.
According to depository data,
foreign portfolio investors
(FPIs) infused a net sum of
Rs 3,002 crore in equities
during February 1-17 and
another Rs 6,559 crore in the
debt segment, translating into
a total inflow of Rs 9,561
crore (USD 1.42 billion).
Finance Minister Arun
Jaitley, in his Budget speech,
proposed that category I and
II FPIs should be exempted
from taxation on indirect
transfers. Meanwhile, Nikkei
Markit India Manufacturing
PMI in January rebounded
from the demonetisation
downturn by increasing to
50.4, from 49.6 in December,
amid rising order books,
production as well as buying
levels and expansion in the
sector.
Further, SIAM's auto
numbers have shown that
passenger vehicle sales in
India rose by 14 per cent in
January.
FPIs pour Rs 9,500 cr incapital markets in Feb so far
New Delhi: Stock marketslikely to witness volatilityamid derivatives expiry in aholiday-shortened weekahead, and the ongoing UPassembly elections will alsocontinue to dominatesentiments, say experts.Stock markets will remainclosed on Friday for'Mahashivratri'."In absence of any major
trigger on the domestic front,this week looks unexcitingand will be guided largely byglobal cues. Hence, chances ofconsolidation cannot be ruledout. Trading is expected toremain volatile in truncatedtrading as traders roll overpositions in F&O segment,"said Vijay Singhania,Founder-Director, Trade
Smart Online."The ongoing UP assemblyelections will continue todominate market sentimentsin the week as pollingprocesses. We believe market to takecues from UP polling alsoand behave similarly.Overall, we foresee range-bound trading in benchmarkindices for the coming week.
Stock markets to see volatility inholiday-shortened week ahead
New Delhi: Retirement
fund body EPFO is
expected to launch online
facility for settlement of
claims, including EPF
withdrawal and pension
fixation, by May this year
to put an end to tedious
paper work by its
members.
At present, the Employees'
Provident Fund
Organisation (EPFO)
receive close to 1 crore
applications manually for
settlement of EPF
withdrawal claim, pension
fixation or getting group
insurance benefit by
deceased persons.
Joy said that all EPFO
offices would be connected
to central server in couple
of months following which
the facility of online
submission of all sort of
applications can be
introduced.
EPFO has an ambitious
plan to settle the claims
within few hours after
filing of application. For
instance, it has plans to
settle the EPF withdrawal
claim within three hours of
filing of online application.
As per the scheme, EPFO
is required to settle all
claims within 20 days from
filing of the application for
settlement of pension or
EPF withdrawal.
Under the pilot, the EPFO
has already connected its
around 50 field offices
with the central server.
In a recent review meeting
on digitisation in the
EPFO, the field formations
and Information Services
wing has been asked to
link all 123 offices with
the central server so that
subscribers can be
provided services online.
EPFO has made it
mandatory for all
subscribers as well as
pensioners to submit their
Aadhaar number. This will
help linking EPF account,
pension account, bank
account and Aadhaar
number which would
eventually facilitate
providing a host of online
facilities to subscribers like
online withdrawal and
fixation of pension.
Online EPF withdrawal, pensionfixation to be a reality by May
The country's steel
production and
consumption is likely to
remain higher in 2017-18
from 89.79 MT of crude
steel during 2015-16 backed
by an increase in
infrastructure allocation in
the Budget, a report said. In
2017-18, steel production is
expected to remain higher.
This will be backed by an
expected revival in
consumption. An increase
in infrastructure allocation
by the government in the
Union Budget 2017-18 is
expected to drive the pace
of construction and
infrastructure in the
country, Care Ratings said
in its report here. The
National Steel Policy 2017,
released by the government,
also aims to increase steel
production.
While crude steel output in
China, Japan and Russia
grew by mere 0.5-3 per
cent, output in US remained
flat and that in South Korea
declined by 1.3 per cent. In
contrast, crude steel
production in India rose by
8.8 per cent to 72.35 MT
during this period. This was
on account of higher output
by the major Indian steel
companies.
The imposition of
Minimum Import Price
(MIP) encouraged the
producers to increase their
output. Care Ratings said
that the consumption of
steel, on the other hand,
grew by just 3.2 per cent to
73.75 MT during April-
December 2016. Post-
demonetization, steel
consumption is expected to
remain under pressure in
the coming few months to a
certain extent.
This is because it is likely
that the demand for steel
from the user industries like
construction, real estate will
take some time to
strengthen. However,
government push towards
infrastructure will
compensate for this
reduction in demand, it
added.
Steel production likely to remain
higher in 2017-18: Report
Its Managing Director Rajiv
Bajaj, last week, became one
of the most vocal
industrialists to criticise the
move by saying the idea of
demonetisation was itself
"wrong" and it is incorrect to
blame only the execution
side of it.
The two-wheeler sales are
yet to recover from the
impact of demonetisation
and industry data releases
over the last two months
have been showing a slump.
HUL said the market growth
was severely impacted
during the quarter due to
demonetisation, while input
costs also continued to
remain inflated.
In a conference call, Ujjivan
officials told analysts it was
"a period of high stress both
for our customers and for us
and we have to go through
this with patience and we
feel wherever people have
become impatient, there are
reports in areas where some
of the MFIs got impatient
and become aggressive".
Dabur India said note ban
led to "severe liquidity
crunch, impacting FMCG in
third quarter", while the
growth for personal care
items like shampoo, hair oil
and toothpaste decelerated in
December to almost half of
November levels.
Some banks also reported
that their business was
impacted and credit growth
was muted as the focus was
mainly on dealing with the
demonetisation move and
the subsequent
remonetisation process,
which also led to increased
costs.
Coffee Day Enterprises,
which runs popular Cafe
Coffee Day stores, said it
saw some impact on its cafe
sales for two weeks after the
announcement but sales
recovered subsequently.
A number of other
companies from various
sectors, including Godrej
Consumer, Jyoti Labs,
Adlabs Entertainment,
Talwalkars, Bharat Financial
Inclusion, India Cements,
Magma Fincorp, Crompton
Greaves, Deepak Nitrite,
Gujarat NRE Coke, DFM
Foods and Sutlej Textiles
also reported adverse impact
of the demonetisation move,
at least for a short period.
Demonetisation move hadan adverse: Bajaj Auto
Mumbai: With the
domestic IT industry staring
at a shift in nature of work
due to increasing use of
digital technologies, a
leading firm has said a
majority of the workforce
cannot imbibe the required
emerging skill-sets, and
warned of high job losses at
the middle and senior
levels.
The domestic arm of the
French IT major employs
nearly one lakh engineers in
the country.
"A large number of them
cannot be trained. Probably,
India will witness the
largest unemployment in the
middle level to senior
level," he said at the annual
Nasscom leadership summit
here over the weekend.
He also flagged concerns
surrounding the quality of
IT workforce, saying much
of the 3.9 million IT
employees come from low-
grade engineering colleges
which do not follow
rigorous grading patterns
for students in their zeal to
maintain good records.
The remarks come days
after the industry lobby
Nasscom said there is a
need to re-train up to 1.5
million, or nearly half of its
sectoral workforce. This is
primarily on the back of a
change in nature of work in
newer, digital technologies.
Kandula said the industry,
driven by yield-seeking
investors, has not invested
enough to upgrade the skill-
sets of its employees.
65% of IT employees not
trainable: Capgemini India chief
New Delhi: Now, ISRO and
IAF may have to pay the
government for getting
accurate timings on par with
the global standard for
various activities like launch
of satellites and flight
operations.
So far, the National Physical
Laboratory (NPL) has been
extending the service free of
cost to ISRO, IAF, Indian
Railways, State Bank of
IndiaBSE -0.59 % and
several other agencies.
The move is aimed at
ramping up NPL's
chronometer infrastructure to
match global standards.
The NPL, one of the oldest
laboratories in the country,
maintains five atomic clocks,
all synchronised with the
atomic clock of the
International Bureau of
Weight and Measure, France.
There are 300 such high
precisions clocks across the
globe linked to the Bureau in
France.
The accuracy of NPL's
chronometer is (+/-) 20 nano
seconds, whereas the global
accuracy standard is as low
as (+/-) 5 nano seconds.
The NPL under the premier
Council for Scientific and
Industrial Research (CSIR)
held separate meetings with
the Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO) and the
Indian Air Force (IAF) last
week, conveying its plans to
charge them for the services
it offers.
The plan is to charge Rs 1
crore per location where the
service is provided, an NPL
official said.
Discussions are on to either
issue a notification or bring
in a legislation in this regard.
The NPL will also hold talks
with its other customers like
State Bank of India, India
Railways and the Department
of Telecommunications to
discuss the issue.
The high precision timing
has impact on the lives of
people as services by
agencies like ISRO, banks,
railways and telecom
operators use NPL services.
Agencies like ISRO trust the
accurate timings during the
launch of a satellite. In case
of ISRO, timings are sent via
satellite.
ISRO, IAF may have to pay
for getting precision timings
New Delhi: Cash purchases
of jewellery will attract 1
per cent TCS (tax collected
at source) from April 1 if the
amount exceeds Rs 2 lakh,
as against the current
threshold of Rs 5 lakh.
Once the Finance Bill 2017
is passed, jewellery will be
treated on par with general
goods which attract 1 per
cent TCS on cash purchase
of above Rs 2 lakh.
The Bill seeks to do away
with the threshold of Rs 5
lakh on jewellery purchases
for applicability of TCS
because the Union Budget
2017-18 has proposed to ban
cash dealings of over Rs 3
lakh and make violations
punishable with a penalty of
an equivalent amount to be
paid by person receiving the
cash.
The Income Tax Department
has been levying 1 per cent
TCS on cash purchase of
bullion in excess of Rs 2
lakh and jewellery in excess
of Rs 5 lakh since July 1,
2012.
However, the Budget for
2016-17 had imposed TCS
of 1 per cent on goods and
services purchased in cash
over Rs 2 lakh.
The Finance Bill 2017 states
that current provisions
provide for "tax collection at
source at the rate of one per
cent of sale consideration on
cash sale of jewellery
exceeding Rs five lakh.
Buying jewellery over Rs 2 lakh
cash to attract 1% TCS from April 1
New Delhi: Fabindia has
started removing the brand
name 'Khadi' it uses to
promote its cotton products
after a legal notice by Khadi
India that the use of the word
amounted to "unfair trade
practice" and misusing its
trade name.
Khadi & Village Industries
Commission (KVIC) had
sent a legal notice to
Fabindia Overseas Pvt Ltd, a
chain of ethnic wear retail
outlet, asking it to
immediately stop using the
word Khadi from all its
cotton products and remove
display banners from its
showrooms.
Sources said Fabindia CEO
Viney Singh has responded
to KVIC's notice, saying it
was complying with all the
directions of the KVIC.
Fabindia has stated that "as
per the direction issued" by
KVIC, it has complied with
them, they said.
Fabindia, in its reply, has
also sought a meeting with
KVIC officials to explain its
position in order to resolve
the matter to the satisfaction
of Khadi India.
KVIC Chairman V K
Saxena, who justified serving
the legal notice, referred to
the earlier communications
with Fabindia by which the
private firm's application for
Khadi mark was treated as
closed.
Fabindia removing 'Khadi'brand name from its products
New Delhi: With the government clearing
the merger plan of State Bank of India (SBI)
and its five associate banks – State Bank of
Bikaner & Jaipur, State Bank of Mysore,
State Bank of Travancore, State Bank of
Patiala and State Bank of Hyderabad India’s
largest bank is gearing up to become even
larger.
While SBI plans to complete the merger in
the next financial year, it will need to
address a handful of issues including
convincing trade unions which are opposed
to the merger.
He said now that the Cabinet has decided to
go ahead with the merger, all related unions
have come together and a new course to
oppose it will be taken on Feb 28. Nine
major bank employees union have formed a
United Forum of Bank Unions, which also
includes existing major unions such s All
India Bank Employees Association and All
India Bank Officers’ Association.
SBI to face some thorny issues aheadof merger of its associate banks
New Delhi: CAclubindia's
Goods and Services Tax
(GST) app became the
number one app on GST
on Google Play Store, with
a successful 85,000 plus
downloads within a
month's time, scoring an
average of 4.4 rating by
over 700 users.
The largest platform for
finance professionals in
India, CAclubindia has 1.7
million registered
members. Recently, it
launched a free interactive
GST App that integrates
and connects technology,
tax practitioners and
businesses and does not
require an internet
connection to operate.
Mobile application being
one of the most powerful
tools for creating and
engaging, interactive
eAdvisory experience has
also become the go-to
technology for finance and
legal professionals.
It enables the learner to
learn with the pace of
change.
"The idea is to bridge the
gap between the business
and finance professionals
by enabling them with an
on the go Mobile
technology and also, to
help both professionals and
business in adapting with
GST and connecting them
in relation to learning,
compliance and
consultancy," said Vivek
Jain, Founder
CAclubindia.com.
This app provides latest
updates on Goods and
Service Tax, SGST, CGST,
IGST applicability and
GST Sections with chapter
wise details.
This GST mobile app not
only gives a complete
access to the GST Act but
also supplements it with
highly interactive features
like latest articles on GST
laws, GST News and GST
Discussion Forum, where
more than 30, 000
chartered accountants and
finance experts address
queries on GST and related
laws.
CAclubindia's GST app crosses
85,000 downloads in a month
The NORTHLINESJAMMU || MONDAY | FEB | 20 || 201712
Former CJIAltamas Kabirpasses away
KOLKATA, FEB 19
Former Chief Justice ofIndia Altamas Kabir passedaway at a city hospital onSunday.He was 68.Kabir, who was sufferingfrom a kidney ailment andrelated complications, diedat 2.52 pm, a senior hospi-tal official told PTI.He is survived by his wife,a daughter and a son, hisson in-law Leon D'Souzasaid.Born on July 19, 1948,Kabir was enrolled as anadvocate in 1973 and prac-tised in the district courtand the Calcutta HighCourt in Civil and Criminalsides.He was appointed as a per-manent judge in theCalcutta High Court onAugust 6, 1990.Kabir was thereafterappointed as the ChiefJustice of Jharkhand HighCourt on March 1, 2005and was appointed as ajudge of the Supreme Courtof India on September 9,2005. — PTI
FATEHPUR (UP), FEB 19
Prime Minister NarendraModi on Sunday criticisedSamajwadi Patry govern-ment under Chief MinisterAkhilesh Yadav for its "fail-ure to maintain law andorder in the state”."The SC had to intervene toget the FIR registeredagainst Gayatri PrasadPrajapati. 'Goonda raj' isprevailing all over UP andpolice stations have becomeSamajwadi Party office,"Modi said at an electionrally, referring to a ministerwho was booked in cases ofrape on Saturday."The glow has disappearedfrom Akhilesh Yadav's face,his voice has become feeble,he is afraid and looking for
right words while talking tomedia," he said, adding thatthe SP chief has "acceptedthat he has lost the game"."Why is the policing systemso inefficient in UP? Whyare complaints not regis-tered? What work culture isit? SP is least concernedabout improving law andorder situation in UP.I urge people to elect agovernment that will
ensure safety of people,"he said, putting SP gov-ernment on the dock.Modi referred to the CM'srally to campaign forPrajapati and wonderedwhether "the (Cong-SP)alliance was as holy asGayatri". Prajapati, whois contesting as a candi-date of the alliance fromAmethi, was sacked byAkhilesh from his cabinet
in 2016 but later reinstat-ed, although without themining portfolio.Modi called SP's alliancewith Congress an "insult"to socialist leader RamManohar Lohia.In a jibe at Rahul Gandhiwithout naming him,Modi said: "Those bornwith silver spoon inmouth have realised thatthe situation is not in theirfavour on the ground.After '27 saal, UP behal'slogan, Congress wascompelled to formalliance with SP becauseof this reason".The Prime Minister alsosaid development hasbeen "in exile for 10years" in Uttar Pradesh.— PTI
'Goonda raj' in UP, SC had to intervene: ModiLUCKNOW, FEB 19
A 61.16-per cent voterturnout was on Sundayrecorded in the third phaseof the seven-phase UttarPradesh polls which con-cluded by and large peace-fully.As many as 69 Assemblyconstituencies in the Yadavheartland, considered cru-cial for the rulingSamajwadi Party in thestate, went to the polls inthis phase."Turnout of voters was61.16 per cent when pollingdrew to a close at 5 PM," UPChief Electoral Officer TVenkatesh said.He said the exercise washeld by and large peacefullyin this phase, adding thattight security arrangementswere put in place at all the25,603 polling booths.In the 2012 Assembly and2014 Lok Sabha polls, theturnout in these areas was59.96 and 58.43 per cent,respectively.The polling percentage was64.2 in the first phase of theongoing election and a littleover 65 in the second phase.Besides BSP supremoMayawati, Union HomeMinister Rajnath Singh casthis vote along with his fam-ily members in Lucknow,while Chief MinisterAkhilesh Yadav voted inSaifai (Etawah).Most of the leaders claimedthat the parties they repre-sent will form the next gov-ernment in the state.Maya upbeatMayawati, who cast her votein the Mall Avenue areahere, told reporters that BSPwould win over 300 of the403 seats."Unlike the Congress andBJP, I am not saying thiswithout any basis. The waythe people are attending myrallies, I can say that I amgoing to form the next gov-ernment. The people of thestate want change as they arefed up with the misrule andgoonda raj of SP," she said.In a similar refrain, Singh,after casting his vote here,claimed that the BJP wouldsecure an absolute majorityin UP.
At Saifai, Akhilesh said,"The voters have made uptheir minds in favour of theSP-Congress alliance."Polling in this phase beganslowly but picked up pacelater. There were reports ofminor skirmishes betweenthe supporters of the candi-dates at some pollingbooths.SP leader and Akhilesh'suncle Shivpal Yadav com-plained that his supporterswere attacked by the "politi-cal opponents" in hisJaswantnagar constituency.In the 2012 Assembly polls,the SP had won 55 of these69 seats, while the BSP, BJPand Congress had securedonly six, five and two seatsrespectively. One seat waswon by an Independent.There were 826 candidatesin the fray in the third phasewhose fate will be decidedby 2.41 crore voters, includ-ing 1.10 crore women and1,026 people belonging tothe 'third gender' category.Besides SP strongholdsKannauj, Mainpuri andEtawah, Lucknow (the LokSabha constituency ofRajnath Singh),Farrukhabad, Hardoi,Auraiya, Kanpur Dehat,Kanpur, Unnao, Barabankiand Sitapur were among the12 districts where pollingwas held today.Etawah is the native place ofSP patriarch Mulayam SinghYadav, while another keydistrict is Mainpuri, which isrepresented in Parliament bySP's Tej Pratap Yadav.Dimple Yadav, the wife ofAkhilesh, is the MP fromKannauj.In the third phase, the maxi-mum of 4,98,573 votersexercised their franchise inthe Sarojini Nagar seat in
Lucknow, while the mini-mum of 2,72,294 voterswere in Sisamau.The highest number of 21candidates were in Etawahand the minimum of three inHaidergarh (Barabanki).Lucknow West and Centralhad 17 candidates each.Prominent among those,whose prestige is at stake,are Nitin Agarwal, son of SPleader Naresh Agarwal,from Hardoi, BSP turncoatBrijesh Pathak fromLucknow (Central) on a BJPticket and Congress turncoatRita Bahuguna Joshi (nowin BJP), who is pittedagainst Mulayam's daugh-ter-in-law Aparna fromLucknow Cantt.SP leader Shivpal too is akey figure in this round. Heis contesting fromJaswantnagar.Congress leader PL Punia'sson Tanuj Punia is trying hisluck from the Jaidpur seat inBarabanki.Interestingly, the much-vaunted 'kaam bolta hai'(work speaks) slogan ofAkhilesh faced a litmus testin the battle of ballots todayin the state capital, the cru-cible of his dream projects.Akhilesh (43) has used thedevelopment card to the hiltduring his campaign acrossthe state, often highlightinghis work in and aroundLucknow, the city ofNawabs, doing away withthe traditional SP politicsthat hinged on caste equa-tions and dependence on the'M-Y' (Muslim-Yadav) fac-tor.The next four phases ofpolling will be held onFebruary 23, 27 and onMarch 4 and 8. Counting ofvotes will be taken up onMarch 11. — PTI
Over 61% voting in third phase of UP polls
LONDON, FEB 19
A British Sikh man, working at aninternational telecom firm in the UK,has been given permission to wear kir-pan to the workplace after initiallybeing refused.The Sikh Council, among the largestrepresentative bodies for the Sikhs inthe UK, had intervened on behalf ofthe unnamed worker to explain theSikh articles of faith following whichthe employer conceded and has sinceadopted a policy permitting the indi-vidual to wear his kirpan in the work-place. “It is unfortunate that cases suchas these still occur too often for our lik-ing, especially in large multi-nationalorganisations. However, we arepleased with the outcomes in thesecases, which has meant these Sikhs arenow able to practice their faith whilst
at work,” said Jagtar Singh, secretary-general elect of the council.“Casework like this is a regular featureof the work of Sikh Council UK andwe frequently receive queries seekingour assistance in such matters. Subjectto capacity we of course seek to assistany Sikh who faces any issues at workor elsewhere in connection with theirarticles of faith. If any Sikh is facingany such problems they are requestedto get in touch with us without delay,”he added. The individual in questionhad taken the decision to become an
Amritdhari, or an initiated/baptisedSikh, and as per the mandatory Sikhcode of conduct was required to carrythe five articles of Sikh faith, or the 5Ks, on his person at all times – kirpan,kada, kanga, kesh and kachera.He informed his employer of the cir-cumstances following which hisemployer had initially refused consent.The council claims this was the secondsuch case in recent times where it suc-cessfully intervened in connection withthe wearing the kirpan in the work-place. The other case involved twoSikh employees initially being stoppedfor wearing kirpans at a large interna-tional airport based in south-eastEngland. The airport has now adopteda policy around the wearing of the kir-pan by employees in the workplace inconsultation with the Sikh CouncilUK. — PTI
Sikh man allowed to wear kirpan to workplace in UK
LAHORE/PESHAWAR, FEB 19
More than 130 suspected ter-rorists have been killed andover 350 people, mostlyAfghans, arrested inPakistan as part of a nation-wide crackdown by securityforces following a string ofsuicide bombings in thecountry. At least 15 terrorists werekilled in another targetedstrike by the Pakistani forcesacross the Afghan bordertoday, Geo News reported.A high-value target, knownfor recruiting terrorists andtraining suicide bombers,was also reportedly gunneddown and at least 12 terrorsanctuaries, including ahideout and weapon depotcamp of Jamaat-ul-Ahrar’scommander were alsopounded.In Pakistan’s northwest trib-al region, at least 11 Afghanterrorists were killed duringa gun battle with the securityforces. The gun-battleoccurred in Sapperkot and
Para Chamkani in KurramAgency.Pakistan had reportedlylaunched “strikes” againstmilitant bases in Afghanistanyesterday.The killing of militants andarrests were part of a nation-whide crackdown followinga spurt in terror attacks.Punjab police spokesmanNiyab Haider told PTI todaythat, “More than 350 sus-pects have been taken intocustody (in Punjab), mostlyAfghans, since the Lahoreblast last Monday on the
Mall Road.”“During Saturday andSunday the police havearrested more than 200 peo-ple mostly Afghans andPashtoon as they did nothave identification papers.Police have also arrestedthose who had given themtheir houses on rent,” hesaid.According to a spokesmanof the Crime InvestigationDepartment, “Police arefocusing on intelligence-based search operations toget maximum results.
Deployment at all sensitivegovernment installations hasbeen increased and the oper-ation in and around localitiesof shrines in the province isalso being conducted.”He said illegal weapons havealso been recovered fromsome of the suspects whohave been shifted to undis-closed location for identifi-cation.Police have also taken a maninto custody who had rentedhis house to handlerAnwarul Haq of the Lahoreblast.
According to Punjab ChiefMinister Shahbaz Sharif,Haq had brought the Afghansuicide bomber to the MallRoad.An anti-terrorism court yes-terday handed over Haq toCounter TerrorismDepartment on a 30-dayremand.Tahrik-i-Taliban Pakistansplinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar had claimed theresponsibility for the Lahoreblast. — PTI
130 terrorists killed, 350 arrested in Pak’s anti-terror drive
BANGKOK, FEB 19
A United States aircraft carrierstrike group has begun patrolsin the South China Sea amidgrowing tension with Chinaover control of the disputedwaterway and concerns itcould become a flashpointunder the new US administra-tion. China’s Foreign Ministry onWednesday warned
Washington against challeng-ing its sovereignty in the SouthChina Sea.The US navy said the force,including Nimitz-class aircraftcarrier USS Carl Vinson,began routine operations in theSouth China Sea on Saturday.The announcement was postedon the Vinson’s Facebookpage. The strike group’s com-mander, Rear Admiral JamesKilby, said that weeks of train-
ing in the Pacific had improvedthe group’s effectiveness andreadiness.“We are looking forward todemonstrating those capabili-ties while building upon exist-ing strong relationships withour allies, partners and friendsin the Indo-Asia-Pacificregion,” he was quoted as say-ing by the Navy News Service.Friction between the UnitedStates and China over trade
and territory under USPresident Donald Trump haveincreased concerns that theSouth China Sea couldbecome a flashpoint.China wrapped up its ownnaval exercises in the SouthChina Sea on Friday. Wargames involving its own air-craft carrier have unnervedneighbours with which it haslong-running territorial dis-putes.
US carrier group patrols in tense South China Sea
MOGADISHU, FEB 19
A car bomb blast at a market-place in Somalia’s capitalhas killed at least 20 peopleand injured 50 others, said alocal Somali official.The blast by a car bombparked near a restaurantwent off at a busy time whenshoppers and traders weregathered inside the market,said district commissionerAhmed Abdulle.The powerful blast was thefirst major attack sinceSomalia’s new president waselected on February 8.“Someone had parked thecar here and left before itwas detonated,” saidMohamed Haji, a butcherwho suffered shrapnelwounds, pointing his fingerat a clothes shop devastated
by the blast. Pieces of woodand metal sheets on theground were all thatremained of the shop.Women sobbed andscreamed outside the marketas rescue workers weretransported bloodied bodiesand wounded victims intoawaiting ambulance vehi-cles.“It’s a painful carnage.” saidAli Mire, a government sol-dier who was helping afriend with multiple shrapnelwounds.The blast occurred a fewhours after Somalia’s Islamicextremist rebels, al-Shabab,denounced the newly electedPresident MohamedAbdullahi Mohamed as an“apostate” and vowed tocontinue fighting against hisgovernment. — AP
Blast in Somalia kills 20 inMogadishu marketplace