Page 1_.

qxd 3/17/2013 11:41 AM Page 1

8 Pages Rs: 1.00 Jammu Edition www.thestudentage.com

STUdent aGE
SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2013

JKENG/2012/41612 Vol. 2 No: 69

Railway minister justifies fare hike, hints at more

MADNESS HAS A METHOD BUT PAKISTAN HAS NONE

Government to introduce new ITR form by month-end

Petrol price slashed by Rs 2; no change in diesel rate

NEW DELHI: The stateowned oil marketing firms (OMCs) have reduced the prices of petrol by Rs 2 per liter effective from midnight today. This comes after prices of international gasoline (petrol) softened by more than $3 a contd on page 2

PAGE 6

J&K, including territory under illegal occupation of Pak, is and shall always be an integral part of India
NEW DELHI: Both houses of parliament Friday unanimously passed a resolution rejecting Pakistan National Assembly motion against the execution of Parliament House attack convict Afzal Guru. "This house totally rejects the resolution passed by the National Assembly of Pakistan on March 14," said the resolution, which was read out in the Lok Sabha by Speaker Meira Kumar and in the Rajya Sabha by Chairman M. Hamid Ansari. The resolution was adopted unanimously. "The house rejects interference ists," the resolution said. It said that only the fulfilment of Pakistan's commitment that "it will not allow its territory to be used for terrorism against India" can be the basis for peaceful relations with that neighbouring country. The resolution also stressed that the border state of Jammu and Kashmir, including its territories occupied by Pakistan, is an integral part of India. "The house reiterates that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir, including territory under illegal occupation of Pakistan, is and shall always be an integral part of India, contd on page 2

United stands Indian Parliment

he members of the BJP and Panthers Party staged a walkout of the Jammu & Kashmir legislative assembly. Protesting the resolution of the Pakistan National Assembly. The Pakistan National Assembly on Thursday condemned the execution of Afzal Guru, convicted of conspiracy that led to the terrorist attack on India's Parliament House in 2001. The resolution also demanded that the body of Afzal Guru be contd on page 2

PAGE 5

Passes Resolution and asks Pak not to interfere

States BJP, Panthers react strongly, walk out from Assembly

Controversial UPSC notification kept on hold after uproar in Lok Sabha

NEW DELHI: The government Friday put on hold a controversial notification making proficiency in English a requirement for aspirants of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) as most Lok Sabha members opposed it. "The said notification will be in abeyance. We will call a meeting of UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) officials to resolve the issue, keeping in mind the views expressed by the members," Minister of State for Personnel and Training V. Narayanasamy told the Lok Sabha. The house had to be adjourned earlier as many members raised the issue asking for revocation of the March 5 notification by the UPSC, which conducts the examination for all-India services. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad moved the motion in the house which was supported by

in the internal affairs of India and calls upon the National Assembly of Pakistan to desist from acts of support for extremists and terror-

PAGE 7

MLAs of BJP, Panthers party demanding a discussion on the resolution passed by the Pakistan Assembly.

NC, PDP speaking language of separatists: BJP

Cabinet orders a major reshuffle in Civil and Police Administration

JAMMU, MARCH 15: The State Cabinet, which met here on Friday evening under the chairmanship of Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah has ordered transfers and postings in Civil and Police Department. Shaleen Kabra, IAS, Commissioner/Secretary, APD, has been transferred and posted as Commissioner/Secretary, Technical Education and Youth Services & Sports Department, relieving Mr. Bipul Pathak of the additional charge. Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Agriculture Production Department, vice Mr. Shaleen Kabra. Mr. Shailendra Kumar, IAS, awaiting orders of posting, has been posted as Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, vice Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon. Mr. Farooq Ahmad contd on page 2

India moves to downgrade ties with Italy, not to send ambassador

NEW DELHI: Angered by Italy reneging on its commitment to send back its two naval guards, India is downgrading its diplomatic ties with it which means there will be no ambassador-level representation between the two countries. India's ambassador-designate Basant Kumar Gupta was asked not to proceed to Rome as a review of entire gamut of ties with Italy was underway by the government. Government sources said, "The decision of not sending Mr Gupta to assume his position is tantamount to the fact that India wants to keep diplomatic ties with Italy at a level lesser than the ambassador." contd on page 2

Rajesh Kumar, IPS: 95, promoted as IGP, Jammu Zone

K. Rajendra Kumar, IPS:84, ADGP, Armed, Law & Order has been transferred and posted as DG, Prisons Department. Mr. P.L. Gupta, IPS:84, Commissioner of Vigilance, J&K has been transferred and posted as ADGP, (Coordination) PHQ, against a newly created post. Mr. Navin Agarwal, IPS:86, ADGP, Prisons Department has been transferred and posted as DG, Youth Services & Sports vice Mr. J.P. Singh, KAS. Smt. Duety Rani Doley, IPS:86, presently on leave has been posted as ADGP, Homeguards and Civil Defence. Mr. Vijay Kumar Singh, IPS:87, IGP Trainings/CIV, PHQ, upon his promotion has been posted as ADG, Security, J&K vice Dr. Ram Lubhaya. He shall takeover the charge of the contd on page 2

BJP state spokesperson Dr. Jitendra Singh addressing media. JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir unit of BJP on Friday alleged that both National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party were working on the "diktats of the separatists" and speaking their language. Taking strong exceon to Pakistan passing a resolution demanding return of mortal remains of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru to his family, BJP state spokesperson Jitendra Singh alleged that NC and PDP are also sticking to the same stand. "Both, NC and PDP, are working under the diktats of contd on page 2

Airports Put on Alert to stop Italian envoy

ndia's home ministry has put the country's airports on alert to prevent Italy's ambassador from taking flight, in a dramatic escalation of a dispute over two Italian marines who skipped bail while on trial in Delhi for murder. An order has faxed to immigration authorities as saying: "Immigration authorities have been alerted that Daniele Mancini should not leave without permission." The home ministry is just following the contd on page 2

Li Keqiang becomes Chinese premier SEBI seeks arrest of Sahara Saroori raised various demands including
BEIJING: Li Keqiang became Chinese premier on Friday while General Fan Changlong and General Xu Qiliang were endorsed as vice chairmen of the country's top military body at the annual parliamentary session. Li was endorsed at the ongoing session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC), the country's top legislature, said. Nearly 3,000 NPC as the candidate for premier at the ongoing parliament session. He is the seventh premier since China was founded in 1949, replacing Wen Jiabao who had headed the State Council since 2003. Li, born in 1955 in Anhui province, joined the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 1976 and graduated from Peking University with law contd on page 2

chief Subrata Roy

Construction of the Journalist Colonies

Report for establishment of new blocks at Bunjwah, Mugalmaidan, Thakrie, Sarthal, Khara and Bhatyas of Inderwal constituency and staff for block Chatroo, Kishtwar, Drabshallah, Bhalessa by way of engagement of Junior Engineers on contract bases to job card holders against works. He stressed on strengthen of Panchayat Raj by implemen-

deputies voted to approve the nomination of Li, by newlyelected President Xi Jinping,

NEW DELHI: The Securities and Exchange Board of India has moved the Supreme Court seeking detention of Sahara Group Chief Subrata Roy and two Group directors. In its application placed before the court on Friday, SEBI also sought an order directing Roy and three oth-

ers to deposit their passports with the court. The SEBI application sought from the apex court an order permitting its Whole-Time Member to take measures for the arrest and detention in 'civil prison' of the Sahara promoter, Subrata Roy, and the contd on page 2

JAMMU, MARCH 15: Participating in the discussion related to the grants of the various departments G.M. Saroori lauded government for establishing grievance redressal cell to get the requisite feedback from different quarters about the implementation of various schemes and also complaints if any. He demanded early implementation of Bloeria Commission

tation of 73rdAmendment, immediate conduct of Block Development Council (BDC) elections in the state. Saroori demanded on the floor of the assembly that provision to increases IAY cases from 1no to 10 no per panchayat, timely formation of plans for all the schemes, enhancement of BRGF funding for rural areas. Early contd on page 2

Pakistan's Direct Involvement in the Suicide Attack on CRPF Jawans Confirmed Have we become so weak?
One more arrested, reveals story
SRINAGAR: In a swift operation a day after the attack, the special operations group of the Jammu and Kashmir police arrested 22year-old Zubair alias Abu Tallah alias Riaz from Chattabal area in the outskirts of the city late Thursday night when he was talking to his handlers, official sources said on Friday. The Pakistani militant arrested in a major breakthrough in the suicide strike that killed five CRPF men was a Lashkar-eTaiba(LeT) recruit and it was he who allegedly dropped the two "fidayeens" (suicide attackers) in the outskirts of the city on the day of the attack, investigations show. Zubair, a resident of Multan in Pakistan, is the second person to be arrested in the attack on the CRPF camp near the Police Public school in Bemina on Wednesday after Bashir alias Haroon Bhai was held hours after the attack. Sources said that Bashir, who hailed from Uri along the line of control (LoC) in Baramulla district, had tipped the state police about Zubair's movements which led to his arrest. The sources said that Zubair told the interrogators that he had dropped the two fidayeens hailing from his country along with Bashir, a surrendered militant. According to the police, Zubair had crossed over from Uri in north Kashmir a month back and was followed by the two fidayeens who hailed from Sahiwal and Dera Gazi Khan in Pakistan. Zubair showed no signs of resistance when he was being overpowered by the SOG personnel on a roof top in a densely populated area when he was talking to his handlers, they said. During his night-long interrogation, the arrested terrorist gave details about his recruitment by terror outfit contd on page 2

Not right time for removal of AFSPA, Decision should be apolitical: Army Chief

NEW DELHI:The time is "not right" for the removal of AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir, Army Chief Gen Bikram Singh said on friday emphasising that any decision on this "should not be politicised". The army chief, who was speaking at the India Today conclave was asked to comment on Union Minister Farooq Abdullah's demand for repeal of the AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) from the state.

He said "We only make recommendations. If I was to be asked, I would say that the time is not right at the moment to tamper with this enabling act. We should not take away AFSPA at this juncture" On suggestions that the army was not listening to the Government on the issue as finance minister had stated that the Government wants the law to go but Army has objections on it, he said, "If a contd on page 2

akistan has emerged as a big destablising factor in the whole of South Asia. It's military and Jihadi combine packaged by the ominous ISI is fast becoming a hub of terror. The intransience and total disregard of established norms of international relations came into full play when on Friday the national Assembly of Pakistan passed a resolution in favour of Parliament bombing mastermind Afzal Guru. The passing of resolution in favour of a terrorist in the National Assembly proves the culpability of whole Pakistani system in abetting and fomenting terrorism in our country. Pakistan has now proved beyond any shred of doubt that there are not only non-state actors but also State actors which eulogize and make a martyr out of terrorists. Otherwise praising the attacker on our Parliament was something that Pakistan should have desisted from. But how can Pakistan understand democracy. It has no experience of democra-

cy and freedom. They have now established before the international community that they are what they are -- terror mongers. But there is a far greater problem which is becoming a festering wound for the country. This problem is being created by those pro Pakistani people who live a life of pomp and show at the expense of Indian tax payer's money. They enjoy the freedom of India' democracy and taste the ripe fruits of our tolerance. They vomit out all venom against the country that sustains and nurtures them. The common man of the country is bewildered. He needs answers from those who run this country. Have we become so weak that we cannot root out these snakes who are living within us? Have we turned so credulous that we believe in Pakistan all the time? Why cannot we ignore Pakistan? Is it impossible for us to live without Pakistan? The rulers of this great country please answer.

Ranasahib

Page 1_.qxd 3/17/2013 11:42 AM Page 2

STUDENT AGE SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2013

DEFENCE/CONTD
Hilal Ahmad Parray of the additional charge. Mr. M. Raju, IAS, awaiting orders of adjustment, has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Poonch, vice Mr. Ajit Kumar Sahu. Ms. Yasha Mudgil, IAS, Project Director, SSA, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, vice Mr. P.K. Pole. Mr. Jatindera Kumar Singh, IAS, Additional Secretary, Planning & Development Department, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Kathua. He shall, however, assume the duties of the post on 31-03-2013 (AN), on the superannuation of the present incumbent, Ms. Zahida Parveen Khan. Mr. Shyam Vinod Meena, IAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kathua, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, vice Mr. Shabir Ahmad Bhat. Mr. J.P. Singh, Director, Youth Services & Sports, has been asked to report General Administration Department for further posting. Mr. Farooq Ahmad Shah, KAS, Deputy Commissioner, Anantnag, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, vice Mr. Baseer Ahmad Khan. Mr. M.H. Malik, KAS, Special Secretary, Planning & Development Department, has been transferred and posted as Director, Estates, J&K, vice Mr. R.K. Koul. R.K. Verma, KAS, Special Secretary, GAD, has been transferred and posted as Director, SSA, vice Ms. Yasha Mudgil. Mr. Shabir Ahmad Bhat, KAS, Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, has been transferred and posted as Special Secretary, Planning & Development Department. Mr. Farooq Ahmad Lone, KAS, Director, Agriculture, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Anantnag, vice Mr. Farooq Ahmad Shah. Mr. Mohammad Saleem Shishgar, KAS, awaiting orders of posting in the GAD, has been posted as Secretary, State Vigilance Commission. Mr. G.S. Chib, KAS, Special Secretary to the Government, General Administration Department, has been transferred and posted as Director, CAPD, Jammu vice Mr. Parvez Malik. Mr. Robin Singh Mehta, KAS, Director, Tourism, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Additional Commissioner, Jammu, in the office of the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, against an available vacancy. Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad Shah, KAS, Additional DDC, Baramulla, has been transferred and posted as Director, Agriculture, Kashmir, vice Mr. Farooq Ahmad Lone. Mr. Asif Hameed Khan, KAS, Joint Director, Tourism, Mumbai, has been transferred and posted as Addl. Resident Commissioner, New Delhi, vice Mr. Abdul Majid Ganai. Mr. Soujanya Kumar Sharma, KAS, Executive Director, Mubarak Mandi Heritage Society, has been transferred and posted as Director, Tourism, Jammu, vice Mr. Robin Singh Mehta. He shall also hold the additional charge of the post of Executive Director, Mubarak Mandi Heritage Society. Mr. Tariq Hussain Ganai, KAS, awaiting orders of adjustment, has been posted as Chief Executive Officer, Gulmarg Development Authority, vice Mr. Mehmood Ahmad Shah. Mr. Mehmood Ahmad Shah, KAS, Chief Executive Officer, Gulmarg Development Authority, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Commercial Taxes (Vigilance & Inspection), Kashmir, against available vacancy. Mr. Subash Chander Chibber, KAS, Additional Secretary, Higher Education Department, has been transferred and posted as Additional Secretary, General Administration Department. his promotion, has been posted as ADGP, Armed, vice Mr. K. Rajendra Kumar. Mr. Dilbagh Singh, IPS: 87, IGP, Jammu Zone upon his promotion has been posted as MD, Police Housing Corporation which post is hereby declared equivalent in rank and status to that of ADGP. Mr. Owais Ahmad Sheikh, IPS:87, IGP, Technical Services upon his promotion as ADGP, shall await orders of posting in the Home Department.. Mr. Rajesh Kumar, IPS:95, DIG, North Kashmir Range, Baramulla, upon his promotion, has been posted as IGP, Jammu Zone, vice Mr. Dilbagh Singh. Mr. Abdul Gani Mir, IPS: 94, IGP, Crime, J&K, has been transferred and posted as IGP, Kashmir Zone, vice Mr. S.M. Sahai. Mr. Suleman Salaria, IPS: 94, IGP, Personnel, PHQ has been transferred and posted as Commissioner, Civil Military Liaison vice Mr. P.R. Manhas. Mr. Yoginder Koul, IPS:94, IG, Home Guards has been transferred and posted as IGP, State Human Rights Commission, against an available vacancy. Mr. Arun Chowdhary, IPS:91, IGP (HQ) PHQ has been transferred and posted as IGP (Pers), PHQ, vice Shri Suleman Salaria. Mr. Deepak Kumar, IPS:93, IGP, Vigilance has been transferred and posted as IGP (HQ), PHQ, vice Mr. Arun Kumar Chowdhary. Syed Javed Mujtaba Geelani, IPS:94, awaiting orders of posting, has been posted as IG, Crime vice Mr. Abdul Gani Mir. Mr. S.S. Khandare, IPS:95, DIG, CIV, PHQ upon his promotion has been posted as IGP, Technical Services and CIV. Mr. Alok Puri, IPS:94, MD, Police Housing Corporation has been transferred and posted as IG, Vigilance. Mr. J.P. Singh, IPS:96, DIG, Jammu has been transferred and posted as DIG, Baramulla. Mr. Ashkoor Wani, IPS:99, SSP, Udhampur upon his promotion be transferred and posted DIG, Doda- Kishtwar. Mr. Ali Mohd Bhat, IPS:99, SSP, Vigilance upon his promotion has been posted as DIG, Vigilance. Mr. Shakeel Ahmed Beigh, IPS:98, DIG, Traffic, Jammu has been transferred and posted as DIG, Jammu. Mr. Gareeb Dass, IPS: 97, DIG, Doda-Kishtwar has been transferred and posted as DIG, Udhampur. Mr. Shafqat Watali, IPS:96, DIG, Traffic, Kashmir has been transferred and posted as DIG, Traffic, Jammu. Mr. Jagjit Kumar, IPS:96, DIG, Udhampur has been transferred and posted as DIG, Traffic, Kashmir. istry of external affairs had said the "entire expanse of our interaction" with Italy was being reviewed while stressing that Italy has to "respect and abide" by the agreements between it and the Supreme Court. The two naval guards Massimiliano Lattore and Salvatore Girone - facing trial for allegedly killing two Indian fishermen last year, were permitted by the apex court on February 22 to go to Italy for four weeks for voting in election and directed to return within four weeks. two directors Ashok Roy Choudhary and Ravi Shankar Dubey after giving them reasonable opportunity for hearing. The apex court Bench will hear the case in the first week of April. The matter relates to the Supreme Court's direction on August 31, 2012, to two Sahara Group companies - Sahara India Real Estate Corporation (SIRECL) and Sahara Housing Investment Corporation (SHICL) - to refund Rs 24,000 crore to their investors within three months with 15 per cent interest per annum, for raising the amount in violation of rules and regulations. The regulator on February 13 seized the assets and properties of the two Sahara companies, besides freezing their bank accounts as also of their promoters and directors. The attached property includes Aamby Valley Ltd. In a statement responding to SEBI's application, Sahara questioned the regulator's power to arrest Subrata Roy and challenged it to find or prove even one fictitious investor. "SEBI in its status report has asked for Civil Detention, knowing well that such provisions of Code of Civil Procedure (CPC), prescribing the same as a mode of execution of decree do not apply to SEBI, as under the SEBI Act, application of CPC is clearly barred and ruled out and also the fact that no question of any such non-compliance, on the part of Sahara officials do arise in view of the entire unpaid amount having been deposited with SEBI and the records of redemption made submitted to them for verification," the Group said.

2
claimed he joined the outfit in view of the abject poverty he was living in. Zubair has two sisters and an elder brother in Pakistan and the family is reported to be financially weak with the father working in farms, the sources said.He has undergone several training sessions with LeT including those given by known Lashkar commanders like Hanzullah and Furqaan, police claimed, and said he had attended the last training session six months back. However, he has not been able to provide the actual identity of the two terrorists who carried out the suicide attack. The two terrorists, disguised as cricketers, stormed a CRPF camp here in the first major attack in the city in three years. They were killed by the security personnel.

Contd. from page 1...

United stands....
" it said. "Any attempt from any quarter to interfere in the internal affairs of India will be met resolutely and with complete unity of our nation," the resolution added. Earlier, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley took up the issue at 11 a.m. as soon as the upper house met. He said the Pakistan National assembly resolution was an "official stamp of approval" on the attack that almost triggered a war between India and Pakistan and no friendly ties or dialogues were possible with Pakistan. "Not only is this an interference in the internal affairs of India but this is an approval of the worst terror attack on India," he said. Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Rajeev Shukla said the whole house agreed with Jaitley's sentiment. Pakistan's National Assembly Thursday passed a resolution condemning the hanging of parliament attack convict Afzal Guru. Afzal Guru, hanged Feb 9 after being on death row for about eight years, was found guilty of plotting the attack on parliament Dec 13, 2001. aratist forces in Kashmir and the Pakistan Government. "Pakistan National Assembly resolution condemning the hanging of Afzal Guru and demanding return of his body to his relatives has clearly exposed the dubious nexus shared by the ruling NC and PDP with the Kashmir separatists," Singh said. "It should not be difficult to judge as to what was the motivation and compulsion behind the eagerness of both the NC and the PDP to bring a resolution on similar lines in the JK Legislative Assembly," he added. Singh, who is also BJP's national executive member, attacked the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for not being present at the wreath laying ceremony of the slain CRPF jawans, who were killed in Wednesday's attack in Bemina area of Srinagar. Questioning NC's demand for revocation of Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), Singh said: "If the CM and other leaders are genuinely convinced about improvement in security scenario, they should first set an example by surrendering their personal security." Meanwhile, BJP state secretary Bali Bhagat condemned the cane-charge by JK Police on BJP activists yesterday and said that the government should immediately order a high-level inquiry to fix the responsibility against the erring police officials.

Airports Put on Alert ...

Supreme Court's order of preventing the Italian ambassador from leaving India." "He will have to inform the immigration authorities if he wants to leave the country." An official from senior home ministry said. The Supreme Court ordered on Thursday that ambassador Mancini, who had negotiated the release of the marines so they could return home to vote, should remain in India until the next hearing about the dispute. Mancini signed an affidavit giving his personal assurance that the two marines would return. The Supreme Court ruling appeared to run contrary to diplomatic norms guaranteeing the freedom of movement of foreign envoys and risks a further souring of relations between Rome and New Delhi. Article 29 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 states that diplomats shall "not be liable to any form of arrest or detention". But India's foreign ministry has argued that "if the diplomatic agent willingly submits to the jurisdiction of a court, then that jurisdiction applies". The marines shot dead the fishermen off India's southwestern coast when a fishing boat sailed close to an Italian oil tanker they were guarding. They say they mistook the fishermen for pirates. Italy insists the marines should be prosecuted in their home country because the shootings involved an Italian-flagged vessel in international waters, but India says the killings took place in waters under its jurisdiction. Officials said the Italian government's decision to revoke its commitment to return the marines had put their ambassador in an 'impossible position.' He has not signaled any desire to leave India in the near future but Rome's decision and the political row it has caused has made a diplomatic resolution of the marines' case less likely

Not right time for removal....

decision is taken by the Government, we are ready to relocate." Replying to a query whether the army did not want to move out of the counter-insurgency roles, Gen Singh said, "We are losing our officers and men day in and day out. We are not there for fun. "We are there as the nation wants us to be there. We are not getting fun out of dying. We are there because we are mandated to do so." He said it was seen that when the conditions are not good, "no one says anything but whenever things are improving in the counter-insurgency operations, you will find that there is antiarmy rhetoric." The army chief said the force was not in the state for any "army-centric" agenda and was performing its tasks in the national interest.

States BJP, Panthers....

returned to his family. BJP member Ashok Khajuria said: "Pakistan is interfering in the internal affairs of India, and by passing this resolution; it (Pakistan) has given its stamp of approval to the terrorist attack on Indian Parliament. This also indicates that Pakistan was behind that attack.". Raising slogans against Pakistan's resolution, the members walked out of the state assembly.

Cabinet orders a ...

Factoo, IAS, Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, School Education Department has been transferred and posted as Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, BPE, and Floriculture Departments. Mr. Shiv Dev Singh Jamwal, IAS, Director, H&P Department, be designated as Director General, Hospitality & Protocol Department. Mr. Hirdesh Kumar, IAS, awaiting orders of posting, has been posted as Secretary, School Education. Ms. Shagufta Parveen, IAS, Secretary, BPE, has been transferred and posted as Chairman, SSB, relieving Mr. Mohd. Afzal Bhat of the charge of the post. Mr. Sanjeev Verma, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Transport Commissioner, J&K, vice Mr. Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo. Mr. Mohd. Afzal Bhat, Member, SSB, holding the charge of the Chairman, SSB, has been transferred and posted as Secretary, Cooperatives Department, relieving Commissioner/Secretary, Agriculture Production Deptt., of the additional charge. Mr. Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo, Transport Commissioner, has been transferred and posted as Secretary to the Government, Transport Department, reliving the Secretary to the Government, CAPD, of the additional Charge.Mr. Parvez Ahmad Malik, IAS, Director, CAPD, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Director, Area Planning, against an available vacancy. Mr. Baseer Ahmad Khan, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, has been transferred and posted as Director, Panchayati Raj, against an available vacancy. Mr. Ramesh Kumar Koul, IAS, Director, Estates, has been transferred and posted as Special Secretary to the Hon'ble Chief Minister, against an available vacancy. Mr. Abdul Majid Ganai, IAS, Additional RC, New Delhi, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, against an available vacancy. Mr. Ajit Kumar Sahu, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Poonch, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, vice Mr. Sanjeev Verma. Mr. P.K. Pole, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, has been transferred and posted as Director, School Education, Jammu, relieving Mr.

Saroori raised various....

completion of incomplete panchayat ghars in the state as 1788 Panchayat Ghars had taken in hand by the government. Enhancement of funds under CD and panchayats and implementation of sanction programme in all panchayats. He demanded that government should made provisions of plantation under MGNREGA, timely availability of sheets for formulation of labour payment bills. He said payment should be given through cheque in respect of works executed under CDF and MPLAD funds in favour of beneficiaries. Saroori demanded early construction of colonies for residential purpose in favour of media person and allotment of plots in favour of MLAS at Jammu and Srinagar. He stressed for early conduct of local bodies in the state .He demanded construction of bus stand at Thatri, construction of slab over Nallah at Thatri from both side of road, construction of shopping complex at Thatri from revenue component. Engagement of sweepers in MAC Thatri, release of wages in favor already engaged casual labors and FSL lights in MAC thatri. He stressed on confirmation of HR workers as permanent daily wagers and monthly payment of wages in their favour, Issue of tool kits to HR workers for maintenance of ongoing water supply schemes and engagement of persons who have gained ITI diplomas in respect of PHE sector to avoid the staff shortage in respect of technical issues. Immediate construction of Kandi Canal as per revised DPR, engagement of clerical staff for Hydraulic division Kishtwar and Sub Division for Gondoh and sanction new W.S.S (DPR stands submitted in respect of Inderwal constituency). Saroori demanded installation of 50no of hand pumps in Inderwal constituency and release of 1 crore for repair and maintenance of ongoing water supply schemes under task forest commission.

Petrol price slashed ....

barrel in the last fortnight. New Delhi: Oil marketing companies (OMCs) on Friday decided to cut petrol price by Rs 2 per liter, effective from midnight, the steepest reduction in rates in nine months. While petrol price has been cut by Rs 2 per liter, excluding local sales tax or VAT, there will be no change in diesel rates. After including VAT, the reduction in price of petrol in Delhi comes to Rs 2.40 per liter and the fuel will from midnight tonight cost Rs 68.34 per liter as against Rs 70.74 currently. It was expected that oil firms will also effect the monthly hike of 40-50 paisa per liter in diesel rates but they deferred the decision apparently to save the government from trouble in Parliament. When oil firms had last hiked petrol price on March 2, the Opposition parties had disrupted one full day's proceedings. The cut in petrol price follows two rounds of hike in rates since February. Petrol price was hiked by Rs 1.50 a liter on February 16 and then by Rs 1.40 per liter from March 2. Both the increases were excluding local VAT. The reduction in rates was possible as international oil prices have eased. While the slide in international prices of crude oil from USD 112.73 per barrel to USD 107.41 enabled reduction in petrol prices, it also helped lower losses on diesel sales. Losses on diesel have come down to Rs 8.64 per liter from Rs 11.26 at the beginning of the month, according to Indian Oil Corp (IOC) which announced the price revision. Oil firms calculated the retail price on 1st and 16th of every month based on average imported oil price on the previous fortnight.

Controversial UPSC....
members of most parties. "This is a conspiracy by UPSC members who know English. They have inserted an English paper by sidelining the regional languages and Hindi," said Lalu Prasad. Besides opposition parties such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Communist Party of India (CPI), Janata Dal-United (JD-U), Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Akali Dal and the Trinamool Congress, government allies such as the DMK and the National Conference also opposed the move to impose English on candidates, and said this would not provide students a level playing field.

India moves to ....

Gupta being asked not to proceed to Rome creates an unusual situation for Italian ambassador Daniele Mancini who would in the normal course be asked to leave but his case is before the Supreme Court which has restrained him from leaving India without its permission. The apex court passed the order after it was brought to its notice that the Republic of Italy has reneged on its assurance given through its ambassador to the Supreme Court. Mancini has been asked by the Court to respond by Monday. Therefore, the government may inform the apex court about downgrading of diplomatic ties and depending on the court's view, it may decide about Mancini accordingly. Meanwhile, all the exit points, including airports across the country have been alerted to prevent the Italian ambassador from leaving the country. The decision was taken by the Union home ministry, official sources said. On Thursday, the government had also announced decision to initiate review of entire gamut of relations with Italy which includes diplomatic, trade and defence ties apart from reaching out toEuropean Union, which was briefed on India's views and position in the matter. Official spokesman in the min-

ADMISSION BOOKING 2013

12th Pass or 12th Class studying students who are interested in Engg. / Medical fields are informed to get their seats booked in reputed colleges of Northern India under Management seats without any donation securing 50% marks in Phy, Chem, Maths/Bio for the following courses, M.D.S, B.D.S, M. Tech, B. Tech, B. Sc Nursing, B. Pharmacy, Diploma in all streams G.N.M, M.Ed, B.Ed, MBA, LLB, Hotel Management, MCA, BBA etc.

Li Keqiang becomes...
and economics degrees. After working as provincial leader in Henan and Liaoning provinces, he was elected to the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee in 2007 and appointed vice premier in 2008. Li was re-elected to the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee in November. Chang Wanquan, Fang Fenghui, Zhang Yang, Zhao Keshi, Zhang Youxia, Wu Shengli, Ma Xiaotian and Wei Fenghe were appointed the CMC members after Xi's nomination was approved by the national lawmakers. General Fan, born in May 1947, is currently a member of the Political Bureau of the 18th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and a vice chairman of the CPC Central Military Commission. General Xu, born in March 1950, is currently a member of the Political Bureau of the 18th CPC Central Committee and a vice chairman of the CPC Central Military Commission. Zhou Qiang was elected president of the Supreme People's Court at the annual session.

RAINA EDUCATION CONSULTANCY

(Opposite Sub Treasury Tirth Nagar Talab Tillo Jammu) Mob: 94191-37183

JOB IN JAMMU
MNC dks vius Office / Non-Office dk;Z ds fy, 30 M/F dh t:jr gSaA
Qual: 10/12/Grad./P.G. Income: Rs.8,000 to Rs.15,000 pm Contact:

NC, PDP speaking...

Pakistan-sponsored separatists and that is why they speak exactly the same language," said Singh. He alleged that there was a nexus between NC, PDP, the sep-

Rajesh Kumar, IPS: 95....

post on 31st March, 2013, on the superannuation of Dr. Ram Lubhaya. Mr. Shiv Murari Sahai, IPS:87, IGP, Kashmir Zone upon

Omega International

SEBI seeks arrest ....

Pakistan's Direct Involvement....

LeT in Pakistan and also

Hall 101, South Block, Bahu Plaza, Jammu (M): 9906083095, 9205072038

Page 1_.qxd 3/17/2013 11:42 AM Page 3

STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013

STATE

NEWS IN BOX
Power shutdown on Mar 17
JAMMU, MARCH 14 - In order to carry out the preventive maintenance of equipments and replacement of worn out jumpers, clamps and droppers the power supply to entire Udhampur, Doda and Kishtwar district shall remain affected on March 17, 2013 from 9 a m to 2 p m.

5081 posts referred to recruiting agencies on fast track basis: Dy CM

Tara Chand for intensifying monitoring of ongoing construction works
SRINAGAR, MARCH 14: Measures are afoot to augment the infrastructure and human resources in School Education for infusing momentum into the performance of the department. This was stated by the Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand here today while reviewing the follow up action of the recently held meeting regarding the performance of the School Education department in the Valley. Among others, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon, Secretary, School Education, F.A. Faktoo, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Baseer Ahmad Khan, Director, School Education, Kashmir, Mohammad Shafi Rather, Joint Director Information, Kashmir, Bashir Ahmad Khan besides officers of the School Education department participated in the meeting. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister said that as many as 4500 and 581 posts have been referred for filling up on fast track basis to Services Selection Recruitment Board and Public Service Commission respectively. Besides, 2529 Masters, 2041 Lecturers and promotion of 81 Masters to Lecturer have been regularized while 325 shall be regularized shortly, he added. The final seniority list of about 1400 Senior Lecturers shall be issued soon, the Deputy Chief Minister told. He also said that promotions to the level of 121 Principals, 24 Zonal Education Officers and 5 Joint Directors shall be affected soon. The Deputy Chief Minister urged that new transfer policy shall be implemented and those serving in far flung areas shall be recalled back and in future such tenure shall be limited upto one year only which would be compulsory for all except those having complicated health problems and fatal diseases. He enjoined upon all the officers to supervise the under construction buildings so that the execution of construction works shall be expedited. The meeting was also informed that a Committee has already been constituted under the supervision of Directors of School Education, Kashmir and Jammu divisions to look into the fake appointments being made in the department. Tara Chand instructed the concerned Zonal Education Officers to visit at least twice in a week to their zones to make people aware about different schemes and improving the enrolment, besides curtailing the dropouts in the Schools for which the Panchayat members shall be taken abode. The Deputy Chief Minister exhorted upon the officers to ensure better results and assured that those with better performance shall be rewarded and stern action shall be taken against those with poor performance.

Awareness Camp at Ramgarh

DODA, MARCH 14: District Industries Centre Doda organized a seminar-cum-awareness camp at Ramgarh in the premises of High School Baggar to generate awareness about the schemes and incentives being provided by the department. Functional Manager District Industries Centre Doda Dr. Javed Iqbal Rather , Industrial Promotion Officer Amresh Kotwal and Junior Asstt. District Industries Centre Doda Mohd. Sharief gave a resume of various schemes of the Department. Sarpanch Panchayat Halqa Ramgarh (Baggar) Mohd. Farooq Mir with Panches Mohd. Gulshan Khokhar, Mishri Khan, Nimirla Devi, Ranu Devi and locals of the area were present in the awareness camp. The Sarpanch Panchayat Halqa and Head Master High School Baggar also stressed upon the people to avail the benefits provided under various schemes for setting up of their own ventures.

Separatists furious but tight lipped

SRINAGAR, MARCH 14: At a time when Syed Ali Shah Geelani allegedly bypassed Muthida Majlis Mushawrat (MMM) and issued a strike call in his own capacity, users on social networking sites are busy in raising different questions in this regard while MMM Thursday said that due to arrests of its leaders it was unable to meet and chalk out a strategy. However scores of separatist leaders hold Geelani responsible for creating a chaotic situation by keeping MMM at bay saying there was no need for Geelani sahib to call for a strike, "He could have simply told MMM to issue strike call rather than saying he consulted MMM," a senior Hurriyat leader said. "Most of the leaders who was part of MMM have been arrested and as such we are unable to meet at an appropriate place to chalk out a strategy. I suppose keeping this fact in view Geelani issued a strike call for Thursday," a top MMM leader on condition of anonymity told. Terming the strike call issued by Syed Ali Shah Geelni as most unfortunate, senior Hurriyat leader Javid Ahmed Mir said that ongoing Kashmir movement is run by people itself people are yearning for the unification of all separatist groups. "If MMM was on forefront, then there was no need to bypass it and issue strike call. Though I was not the part of MMM still I welcome it as it comprised the representatives from all groups including Hurriyat (G), Hurriyat (M), JKLF, Bar Association, Jamat-e-Islami, Duktaran-i-Milat and so one. MMM was the sign of unity but to bypass it and issue calls in personal capacities spoil everything," Mir told CNS adding people of Kashmiri have suffered a lot and they wish to see all separatist groups under one platform. He further said that some people feel that this movement is run by them but "they are wrong as it is the movement run by people," Another top separatist leader who used to be the part and parcel of the meetings of MMM, said that a particular leader confused people and

Did Geelani bypass MMM? Handloom Deptt organizes

Kashmiri's are unlucky for not having a true, modest and soft leader. "I was the part of MMM meetings. If MMM was on forefront then there was no need for Syed Ali Shah Gellani to issue a strike call. All this was done for the reasons which I can't utter. May some top separatist leaders thought that MMM take away lime light from them," he said adding the whole nation is confused and there is chaos amoung Kashmiri youth because of lack of leadership. Separatist leader Mohammad Yousuf Naqash said that he was never a part of MMM. "I don't know who are at the helm of affairs in MMM. I have nothing to do with and I can't comment over the issue," he said. Chairman Muslim Conference, Shabir Ahmed Dar said that it was better to follow the programme of united leadership. "Let me tell you I was not the part of MMM but I think unity is in the better interest of people. If people were following the calendar of MMM then there was no need for Geelani sahib to issue strike call," he said.

3 Day Employment Fair at Reasi

REASI, MARCH 14 - A three day Employment fair was organised at sports stadium Reasi by District Employment Counselling Centre Reasi in collaboration with various line departments. The 3 day fair was inaugurated by ADC Reasi S.Rajinder Singh Tara. CPO Reasi Janak Raj, AD employment Sulakshna Thakur, N.T Reasi Rajesh Sharma, District Officers of various departments , Sarpanches, Panches of block Reasi and a large number of unemployed youth were presented on the occasion. ADC Reasi stressed upon the various department to ensure that benefit of the schemes percolate to the grass root level and asked them to organise more such awareness camps . On this occasion candidates under JKSES were distributed cheques by the Employment department. The District Urban Development Agency, Reasi also provided subsidy under USEP scheme to four candidates who were given six months training in computer hardware and maintenance On this occasion a colourful cultural program was presented by the local folk artists

awareness camp

Asssitant Director Handloom Development Department, Udhampur, Dr. Kusam Chib speaking on the occasion at Udhampur. UDHAMPUR, MARCH 14: With a view to aware the Weaver and Ancillary weaving workers of the area about various Schemes being implemented by the Department for Socio-economic upliftment of the weaving artisans, the Handloom Development Department, Udhampur organized an awareness camp at Panchayat Ghar, Cheneni in Udhampur district on Thursday. Asssitant Director Handloom Development Department, Udhampur, Dr. Kusam Chib, Manager, J&K Bank, officers of line departments, Sarpanches, Panches, members of Cooperative Societies and prominent citizens were present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kusam stressed the need for availing benefits under different schemes of Handloom department which mainly include Share Capital Loan Assistance, Health Insurance, Education Scheme, Mahatma Gandhi Bima Bhunker Yojana, Micro Credit plan Scheme and loan for loom. She also advised the weaver to modernize the weaving profession by replacing pit-looms, with Fly Shuttle, take up motion looms and introduction of new design, so that the production as well as the quality of the Handloom product shall improve. On the occasion, experts of the department delivered lectures on different schemes of the department and called for taking benefit out of these schemes which are especially designed for weaving community to ameliorate their socio economic status. As many as 250 members of weaver's community besides Secretaries and members of 18 co-operative societies of the area attended the camp.

Bushan Lal calls on Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister

JAMMU, MARCH 14: Senior National Conference leader and EX MLC Mr. Bushan Lal Bhat today called on Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Mir Saif-ullaha and apprised him about the Management of Temples and Shrines of Kashmir Valley. Mr. Bhat informed the Minister that the Shrine Bill is pending before the Legislative Assembly from the last four years and demanded that the Bill may kindly be passed during the current Assembly session, so that the confidence of Kashmiri Pandit community may be restored further as the government has already given assurance to the Management from time to time. The Minister assured that he will look into the matter and action will be taken on appropriate time. Commissioner Secretary, Law, was also present on the occasion.

Shamim Firdous condemns killing of Altaf

SRINAGAR, MARCH 14: MLA, Habba Kadal and Chairperson, J&K State Commission for Women, Ms. Shamim Firdous today condemned the Saidapora firing incident in which Altaf Ahmad Wani was killed and demanded an inquiry into the incident. She expressed her condolences with the bereaved family and prayed for the eternal peace to the departed soul. Ms. Shamim Firdous urged the government to take care of the dependents of the deceased and asked for adequate compensation for the bereaved family.

Lone inaugurates 3-day BNPIC at Vijaypur

JAMMU, MARCH 14Minister for Higher Education Muhammad Akbar Lone today inaugurated 3day Bharat Nirman Public Information Campaign (BNPIC) organized by Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, here at Vijaypur. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that such programmes help to aware general masses about various centrally sponsored schemes and called for launching similar campaigns in all regions including Leh, Kashmir and Jammu so that the benefits of these schemes percolate

Asks for mass awareness about centrally sponsored schemes

grammes and policies of the government. The Minister lauded the cultural programme presented on the occasion and said that it presented the centuries old composite cultural ethos of the State Earlier, the Minister inspected stalls set up by various departments of state and centre governments, banks etc and evinced keen interest in the projection of schemes under various sectors. He appreciated the endeavour of PIB for organizing such programmes for the rural upliftment. District Development Commissioner, Samba, Mubarak Singh also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the achievements under different centrally sponsored schemes under implementation in the district. The resource persons delivered lectures on various flagship schemes under the Bharat Nirman Rural Development programme like MGNREGA, NRHM, SSA, Mid Day Meal Schemes and RAMSA. Song and Drama Division, a Media Unit under Ministry of Information and

Task Force meeting of Khadi & Village Industries Board held

KATHUA, MARCH 14 - Additional District Development Commissioner, Kathua Ajay Singh Jamwal chaired a District Level Task Force Committee meeting of J&K Khadi & Village Industries Board ( KVIB) here at Kathua today. The committee conducted interviews of the prospective applicants under the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), and approved 38 cases with project cost of Rs 228.23 Lacs District Officer KVIB Jagmohan Singh, Manager DIC, Bharat Bhushan, representatives of J&K Bank, SBI, JK Bank, SC/BC Corp and ITI Kathua were also present in the meeting.

Minister for Higher Education Muhammad Akbar Lone inaugurating 3-day Bharat Nirman Public Information Campaign at Jammu. down to the targeted lot. He said media and civil society can play a pivotal role in highlighting the pro-

Broadcasting presented a variety cultural show which was highly lauded by the audience present on the occasion. Directorate of Field Publicity has launched 2-day pre-publicity for the main 3day campaign in and around Vijaypur to mobilize the people for the the campaign being organized at Vijaypur. A large gathering including panchs, sarpanchs and the local people thronged the venue to extract benefits out of these centrally schemes. Welcoming the dignitaries, the Assistant Director PIB spoke about the aims and objective of organizing the campaign.

CRPF driver arrested by police

SRINAGAR, MARCH 14: Police on Thursday arrested the CRPF driver for allegedly crushing an elderly person from Central Kashmir to death at Solina, Srinagar. According to reports, during the late hours on Tuesday, a speedy CRPF vehicle bearing registration number HR680749 hit an elderly person, Ghulam Ahmed Chopan of Frisdabh, Charar-i-Sharief at Solina who according to witnesses died on spot. A police official from Sher ghari police station told CNS that they have arrested the erring CRPF driver Gautam Bishwas son of Shambu Nath resident of Kolkatta and has registered a case under FIR number 13/2013 under section 279 and 304 A of Crpc against him.

House passes grants of PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control

Govt to focus on water conservation, 10 check dams for every Divn: Sham
JAMMU, MARCH 14: Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma has said that Government will focus on conservation and preservation of water resources to meet the ever growing drinking water needs in the State. To begin with 10 check dams will be constructed in each PHE Division which will recharge the water table. He said it is endeavour of the Government to ensure drinking water security both in terms of adequacy and quality of water to the people of the State on a sustainable basis by adopting holistic approach through conjunctive use of surface, ground and rain water harvesting.

New procurement policy from April, Rs. 1289.92 cr water usage charges till Feb
Replying to the discussion on demands for grants of PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control Departments in the House today, the Minister said that there are 14028 habitations in the State, out of which 8878 have been fully covered and 5150 habitations are partially covered. He said during the next financial year 1407 new habitations benefiting over 11 lakh populations will be covered with potable drinking water facilities. The Government has also proposed to install 3350 Mark-II Hand Pumps in the vulnerable locations to meet the drinking water requirements, he said. To meet the ever growing drinking water needs of Jammu city, he said the Government will soon take up the prestigious Chenab Drinking Water project, estimated to cost 1600 crore in two phases. This prestigious project will meet the demands of Greater Jammu and adjoining areas on completion, said the Minister. To upgrade the existing PHE infrastructure in the State, Mr. Sham said Rs. 315.69 crore have been expended under NRDWP during this fiscal, while as the Government has submitted a detailed plan of Rs. 561 crore to the Central Government for funding under this programme during the next financial year. The Minister said to ensure quality water to the people 46 water testing laboratories have been set up at different places and this year 16105 water tests have been conducted. For this purpose 5333 water testing kits have been distributed till date. "To disseminate information skills and knowledge which would help in capacity building and mass awareness, outreach of the National Water Quality Monitoring & Surveillance Programme, a Pilot Project on Community Capacity Development on Drinking Water Testing, Quality monitoring Surveillance and Intervention including IEC & HRD activities have been stated in the State", he informed. Similarly, he said, in the Irrigation sector, the Government has undertaken 10 Major Medium Irrigation projects in the State under AIBP at an estimated cost of Rs. 685.02 crore. An amount of Rs. 27.09 crore stands utilized upto ending February, 2013. Besides this the Government has also formulated five Major/Medium Irrigation

SDM reviews Baisakhi Mela Arrangements

KATHUA, MARCH 14 - In order to discuss arrangements for 3- days Baisakhi Mela SDM, Billawar Dr. Vikas Gupta convened a meeting of tehsil officer and members of the Mela committee at SDM office here today. It was decided in the meeting that the three day mela will be organised at Naaz Sports Ground, Billawar. Threadbare discussion were held for making adequate arrangements for drinking water, uninterrupted power supply, foolproof security arrangements, availability of fire tender at the venue and sanitation in and around the mela ground .

projects for potential areas involving a cost of Rs. 372.79 crores which are likely to be taken up during the next financial year. The Minister said 83 Minor Irrigation Schemes are targeted to be completed during the next financial year. Similarly, 130 new Minor Irrigation Schemes costing Rs. 732.52 crores have been submitted to centre. He said the existing infrastructure will be upgraded and all irrigational sources will be made operational. He said all canals and tributaries will be properly cleaned so that water reaches upto the tail end to benefit the farmers.

Page 1_.qxd 3/17/2013 11:42 AM Page 4

STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013

STATE

Governor felicitates Red Cross Mela Sponsors, Supporters

JAMMU, MARCH 14 - N. N. Vohra, Governor, today called upon corporate and business houses, philanthropic organizations and affluent sections of the society to contribute generously for enlarging the resource base to boost Red Cross activities in Jammu and Kashmir. The Governor was speaking after felicitating the Sponsors and Supporters for their valuable support extended by them during the Red Cross Mela and the Raffle Draw organized by the Regional Red Cross Society, Jammu, in December last year, at a felicitation function held at Raj Bhavan here today. The Governor, who is the President of Indian Red Cross Society, J&K State Branch, observed that the collection raised by the Regional Red

Calls for making districts as focal points of Red Cross activities

N. N. Vohra, Governor felicitating the Sponsors and Supporters of Red Cross Mela at Jammu. Cross Society, Jammu, last year was significantly higher than in the past years, adding that we have a very large base of industry, commerce and business sector here which can be approached to make much larger contributions. Referring to very valuable contributions made by the State and Central Police Forces to the Red Cross, the Governor thanked them particularly for discharging their security related duties and also contributing for a noble cause. In this context, he referred to the five CRPF personnel who had lost their lives in an unfortunate incident in Srinagar yesterday. The Governor suggested that districts should evolve as focal points of Red Cross activities, organizing Red Cross Melas, Raffle Draws and other activities, to progressively expand the activities of this organization as also raising resources for providing support and succour to the needy. The Governor suggested to Ms. Roma Wani, who has just taken over as Hony General Secretary, Indian Red Cross Society, J&K State Branch, who was present on this occasion, to intensify Red Cross activities across the State and extend their ambit to the Ladakh region and other far-flung areas of J&K. The Governor interacted

with the awardees, congratulated them and thanked them for the support extended by them during the Red Cross Mela and the Raffle Draw organized last year. Earlier, in his welcome address, Pradeep Gupta, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, who is the Chairman of the Regional Red Cross Society, Jammu, said that Rs. 22 lakh were collected from Raffle Draw and other events organized as part of the Red Cross Mela in December last year. Dwelling on the activities of the Regional Red Cross Society, he said that 21 blood donation camps were organized during last calendar year and 1605 units of blood was collected. He added that 214 persons were trained in 8 first aid training camps organized by the Society. He thanked the Governor for taking keen

interest in the activities of Red Cross and also for felicitating the Sponsors and Supporters of Red Cross. Anil Padha, Hony Secretary, Regional Red Cross Society, Jammu, presented a Vote of Thanks. Navin K. Choudhary, Principal Secretary to the Governor, was present on the occasion. The Awardees include IG CRPF, Jammu; Inspector General, BSF, Jammu; DIG Traffic Police, Jammu; Deputy Commissioners of Udhampur, Kathua and Rajouri; President, J&K Bank, Zonal Office, Jammu; Chief Education Officers of Jammu, Kathua and Udhampur; Principal Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu; Principal Government College for

Women, Parade Ground, Jammu; Soujanya Sharma, Executive Director, Mubarak Mandi Heritage Society, Jammu; and Additional Deputy Commissioner, Jammu. Other Awardees included Chairman, JCC Bank; Chairman, Citizens Cooperative Bank; President, Bari Brahmana Industries Association; Managing Director, Sarswati Plastotech India Ltd, Bari Brahamana, Jammu; DGM, Jamkash Vehicleades, Jammu; President, ACTF; Programme Executive Head, Big 92.7 FM; Team Leader, ICRC, Jammu; and Principal, Shangrilla Higher Secondary Schoool, Sarwal, Jammu. Among those present on the occasion were functionaries and members of the Red Cross Society.

RBI organises awareness prog at Galak Rethink on use of non-lethal weapons desirable: Sham
KATHUA, MARCH 14 - Reserve Bank of India, Jammu organised an Outreach Programme today at Galak village in Kathua district as part of its financial inclusion and awareness drive., District Development Commissioner, Kathua Zahida Khan was the chief guest on the occasion while Mr Jasbir Singh, Executive Director, RBI, Central Office, Mumbai presided over the function Mr A.K. Jain, Deputy General Manager, State Bank of India, Mr Nayeem-Ullah, President, J&K Bank,Mr Vikas Gupta, SDM, Billawar, other senior government officials and bankers attended the programme. A large number of villagers including women, senior citizens, farmers, teachers and students were also present on the occasion . The Outreach Programme was inaugurated by the Executive Director in presence of a large gathering. In his welcome address, Regional Director, RBI, Jammu Mr K K Saraf highlighted the objective of organising the financial literacy programme in the village. He also explained the Banking Correspondent model through which banking facilities can be availed by the rural masses. The Deputy General Manager, SBI assured effective banking service in the village through the Common Service Point (CSP) outlet established in the vilJAMMU: Under attack by the opposition for disarming of Police and CRPF personnel under Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) on use of non-lethal weaponary in the Valley, Congress Minister Sham Lal Sharma Thursday said that the policy need to be reviewed. Today there is cabinet meeting-- we will discuss it (disarming of Police and CRPF under SOP) -- I think there is a need to re-visit this policy once again-- it is needed to be reviewed", Sharma told reporters here. Sharma was replying to the volley of questions about disarming of CRPF and policemen and making them targets of the militants in Kashmir valley, revocation of Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and the happenings in the State Assembly over Afzal Guru Issue. Commenting on revocation of AFSPA, the Minister said "If we say militancy from Jammu and Kashmir has been wiped out-- but this type of incident (Yesterday's fidayeen attack) shows that militancy has not been fully stamped out from J&K". "I condemn the fidayeen attack on security forces-- I do not feel our forces- Army and Para-military forces- are demoralised-- our jawans are brave and they are moving forward (to stamp out terrorism)", Sharma said. Replying to the question on opposition and ruling National Conference raising the issue of Afzal Guru in the House, he said "state is moving towards political bankruptcy-- may be I am also coming in it". He further said "as the elections are coming close-we are doing issue based politics-- the situation that is emerging in Jammu and Kashmir, the political people are undermining it". Replying to the another question about politics being done by PDP and NC on selective deaths on the basis of religion, he said "yesterday's killings which took place in Kashmir-- death is a death-- we should in totality condemn all of them-- If we take these issues on the basis of caste, creed and religion, I condemn it".

RBI, Jammu organised an Outreach Programme today at Galak village. lage. The DDC, Kathua,Ms. Zahida Khan advised the gathering to take maximum benefit from the banking sector to improve their economic conditions. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Jasbir Singh, Executive Director, RBI, touched upon the important functions of RBI viz. issuing and managing currency, controlling inflation through formulation of monetary policy and expanding outreach and banking awareness. He also visited the stalls/pavilions put up by RBI, SBI and NABARD at the venue showcasing their products and services. State Bank of India also extended facilities of exchange of torn and soiled notes and issue of fresh currency notes and coins . The audience was informed about the history and functions of Reserve Bank of India through a film show. Films on features of genuine bank notes and on the functioning of Banking Ombudsman were shown for the benefit of the public. Literature highlighting the functions of RBI and financial literacy and education was distributed to the participants During the function KCC cards and Smart Card were distributed by the Executive Director, RBI S. Jasbir Singh. Computers and water filter were also presented to various schools on the occasion.

Advisor, SSA inaugurates 5-day Workshop on education of CWSN

JAMMU, MARCH 14: As a part of continue efforts of the government to promote enrollment and retention in Schools of "Children with Special Needs" (CWSN) with due regard to the variables of disability suffered by them, 48 Resource Centers equipped with requisite aids and appliances have been set up in many Upper Primary Schools under SSA, while 24 more Resource Centers are being created this year. This was stated by the Advisor, State SSA Mission, Mohammad Rafi after inaugurating a five-day Workshop on "Challenges in Inclusive Education of Children with Special Needs" at the Ranbir Higher Secondary School here today. Mr Rafi said that 48 special Educators/Teachers have been appointed and 200 more such posts will be created for strengthening resource support for inclusive education of the CWSN. He said that in a recent survey, 34,895 children, in the age group of 6 to 14 years, has been identified, and is suffering by different types of disabilities. Of them, 2904 are enrolled in Schools and a sustainable support structure was sought to be provided for them in the school system. Rafi said that during the current fiscal, 81 Assessment Camps were organized (under SSA) covering 201 Education Zones across the state and assistive devices worth Rs. 60 lakh were distributed among the CWSN. Besides, 27 Cleft surgeries and 35 other (minor) surgeries of the CWSN were also organized.

Lions Club organises Free Eye Operation Camp at Samba

SAMBA, MARCH 14 - A free Eye Camp organized by Lion's Club Samba at Dina Nath Memorial Hall was inaugurated by District D e v e l o p m e n t Commissioner, Samba Mubarak Singh in presence of President, Lion Club Samba Inder Singh Sambyal, A team of doctors and Para-medical staff from Health department Samba extended the services to the Club in examining and conducting the operations. Patients from different parts of the District especially from remote areas like Sumb, Sarain, Channi Mansar, Goran and border areas were examined by the doctors in the camp. The surgical operations shall be conducted in District hospital Samba and the arrangement for pre-operation and post operation have been organized by Lion Club Samba. District Development Commissioner appreciated the efforts of the Lion's Club and assured them of all possible assistance from District Administration including the medical support from the health department for extending services to the poor and needy persons. The Lion's Club Samba has been organizing such camps after every 6 months and hundreds of patients have been operated free of cost, till now. Among others, Vice President, Col. Mohan Singh, Secretary V.K.Sharma, J.R.Thappa, B.D.Sharma officers of various departments, members of the club and a large number of people were also present.

Better road connectivity vital for socio economic development

JAMMU, MARCH 14Minister for works Abdul Majeed Wani today said that better road connectivity is vital for socio-economic development of the State and accordingly government has launched a massive programme of constructing roads to connect remote and far flung areas with the district and Tehsil headquarters. The Minister was interacting with several deputations belonging to various remote areas of the State, including Marmat and Bhagwah blocks of Doda district. The deputationists

Marmat -Doda deputations call on Works Minister

R&B Doda Subash were also present in the meeting. Threadbare discussion was held on the various upcoming projects and also on the projects which need to be taken in near future for facilitating the people of Doda district with better road connectivity and adequate power supply. The Minister directed the engineers to speed up the work on the under execution roads and also formulate DPRs for uncovered areas of the district.

Minister for works Abdul Majeed Wani interacting with several deputations at Jammu. apprised the Minister about the demands including road connectivity to unconnected areas, improvement in the power supply scenario and other basic amenities. Chief Engineer R&B Jammu Mr, Tehseen Mustafa and Superintending Engineer

Govt. promoting Jammu, Srinagar as engines of economic growth: Jora

JAMMU, MARCH 14: Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Urban Local Bodies, Nawang Rigzin Jora today said that Government is making all out efforts to promote twin cities of the state as engines of economic growth through improvement in the quality of urban life by facilitating creation of quality urban infrastructure. Replying to the discussion on demand of grants of Housing, Urban Development and Urban Local Bodies Departments, the Minister said in order to improve the civic facilities in the capital cities of Jammu & Srinagar and other small and medium towns of the State under various schemes an amount of Rs. 30.00 crores is being utilized during the current financial year for construction/improvement of lanes, drains, deep drains, providing of street lights, development of Bus Addas, construction of Community/town halls, sanitation facilities etc. and Rs. 33.00 crores have been proposed for the next financial year for the purpose. The Minister said under Urban Transport, funds are being provided to Srinagar and Jammu Development Authorities for construction and upgradation of Bus Terminals and other Mini Bus stands to overcome transport related problems of Srinagar and Jammu cities at the earliest. The Minister said under JNNURM 108 projects with a cumulative cost of Rs. 1312.66 crores are under execution in the State for the development of infrastructure in capital cities of Srinagar and Jammu and in major towns of the State. He said that two Sewerage Projects for Jammu and Srinagar at a total project cost of Rs 129.23 crore and Rs 132.92 crore are at present under execution. In parallel to JNNURM, the Minister said that two schemes were launched for other cities and towns not covered as mission cities under JNNURM. He said that under UIDSSMT against the total sanctioned project cost of Rs. 398.15 crores for 8 town of the Jammu Division and 5 towns of Kashmir Division, an amount of Rs 348.17 crores has been released by centre till date. Jora said steps are being taken for strengthening the urban local self-governments by conducting local bodies' elections for enabling them to discharge their functions effectively. He said the Department is also framing Housing Policy, create legal, institutional and procedural changes to encourage investment in housing sector and to facilitate creation of adequate housing stock etc. The Minister said under 12th Five Year Plan the Government will focus on providing affordable housing and better civic amenities through participatory mode to cater to the ever increasing influx of rural population towards urban estimates. He said as per the census 2011, the urban population of the State is roughly 27% and continues increasing at rapid pace which has increased by 35.66 % over last 10 years. Jora said that the Department is also implementing Swaran Jayanti Shahri Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) that aims at providing gainful employment to unemployed and under-employed urban youth living below poverty line to arrest the issues of urban poverty and un-employment. Under Solid waste Management in cities and Towns, the Minister said that 12 Solid Waste Management projects (7 in Jammu and 5 in Kashmir Division) are under implementation in the State at a cost of Rs. 25.34 crore. He said 3 Projects at Sunderbani, Doda and Bhaderwah have been completed while as rest are under process of execution. Jora said the conservation and management of Dal and Nigeen Lake project costing Rs. 298.76 crores is under execution since September 2005 against which Rs. 218.34 crore have been incurred upto December, 2012 and the project is likely to be completed by September 2013. He said three sewerage schemes viz Sewerage Project Talab Tiloo, Jammu, Sewerage Project Brari Numbal Srinagar and Sewerage Project Khushalsar Srinagar are under execution sector under JNNURM. Earlier, the Minister moved that a sum of Rs. 923.29 crore be granted to the Government to defray the charges which will come in the course of payment during the year ending March 31, 2014. 20 members took part in discussion on the demand of grants of the Department. Those included Harsh Dev Singh, Hakim Mohammad Yasin, Chaman Lal Gupta, M. Y. Tarigami, Balwant Singh Mankotia, Dr. Mustafa Kamal, Ashok Kumar, Irfan Shah, Er. Abdul Rashid, Mohammad Sharief Niaz, Prof. Garu Ram, Ashwani Kumar, Mrs. Bimla Luthra, Ajaz Ahmed Jan, G. M. Saroori, Yashpaul Kundal, Mohammad Ashraf, Krishan Chander, Peer Afaq and Aga Syed Ruhullah. Later, the members withdrew the cut motions they had moved after the satisfactory reply by the Minister.

Page 1_.qxd 3/17/2013 11:42 AM Page 5

STUDENT AGE SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2013

EDITORIAL
BY ARINDAM CHAUDHURY he country's premier investigating agency is getting increasingly burdened with all sorts of cases, political and financial. It needs modern technology to keep pace with the challenges. Yet, the Government continues to starve it of money. The loss of reputation and pride of the Central Bureau of Investigation because of its questionable performance in the 2G Spectrum case and the Commonwealth Games scam has as much to do with the intra-body corruption as it to do with the budget crunch. As I read about one after the other case being forwarded to the CBI, I feel sad that none of these cases would see any justice - and it's not just because of CBI's jocular nom de plume being 'Congress Bureau of Investigation', but also because of the fact that even if the CBI wants to do something, it cannot. And the reason is straightforward. The CBI's resources are in serious short supply as no successive Government in recent times has made any concerted effort to upgrade the agency to be a state-ofthe-art investigative body like the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the US. The CBI is still plagued with vacant chairs, old modules of investigation and, above all, it has no tentacles to reach the culprits directly and swiftly. In this year's Union Budget, a hilarious amount of Rs416.66 crore has been allocated to the CBI. In contrast, the FBI's budget was a mind-boggling $8,118 million for the year 2012. And also consider the fact that the CBI's domain is 1.2 billion people as against 300 million for the FBI. That makes a case for an increase of 400 times in the budget allocation for the CBI. Such a sarcastic, petite allocation of funds not only makes the CBI an inefficient and ineffective body but also reduces their ambit of control and span of investigation. The budget crunch has turned the body into a frustrated bunch of officials for whom work has got reduced to mere obligations. The lack of funding and will for expansion make it possible for hundreds of criminals to escape the CBI's clutches. Its stringent, centralised model doesn't allow it to enter premises outside its jurisdiction, even in the case of grave emergencies. The CBI network is divided into 10 different zones, with two to three locations covered under each zone. The hinterland largely escapes the CBI's coverage domain as the so-called Special Crime Zones are mostly concentrated in Delhi and Mumbai. And the less one talks about forensics, the better. If a crime takes place, the forensic team has to rush from Delhi to unearth the case because there is no other forensic office of the CBI outside the capital. Every time there is a case handed over to the CBI - wherever the location of the case might be - the defendants, and in fact all those summoned, have to shuttle to and fro from Delhi. Really, why is the body so centralised? Why can't it have effective operations from all corners of the country? The answers lie in the CBI's weak infrastructure and the (perhaps deliberate) lack of political will. The present state of the CBI provides evidence enough about the ineffective investigative procedures that haunt the department and its handling of cases. For instance, the CBI has had to repeatedly knock at the doors of external agencies (like the FBI during the Bhanwari Devi case as Indian agency is not equipped with the latest technology to extract forensic details from human remains postcremation). Predictably, the financial bulwark of the agency has been largely ignored because it serves no purpose to the Government to augment the CBI's resources - except to target the Opposition. The agency has no electoral value for the Government. The Indian electorate is not mature enough to be sensitive about the CBI's cause; and above all, it has no idea about the way the CBI is misused and abused. Therefore, the ruling regime makes no hue and cry about the successive failures of the CBI, exemplified by its lopsided 'success' rate, for example in defence-related cases, where the the agency has obtained just one conviction out of the 22 cases under its purview since 2004. With respect to the current allocation, a major chunk of the same is targeted towards establishment costs - because the CBI is not spread out enough. So, if there is a marginal increase in allocation, there will be likewise only a marginal increase in its network, and the CBI would be endlessly stuck in the same place. In contrast, the FBI is spread over 56 field offices and 370 resident agencies across the US, giving it the requisite latitude and penetration to reach every home of the country. The already-beleaguered body can boast of a roaster whose strength is only as good as 6,590 sanctioned employees - with 924 positions still lying vacant. Worse, the salary of the staff hardly matches the per capita income of the nation. As a huge amount of money is spent on establishment costs, a very minuscule amount is left for salaries and wages. The pay-scale ladder begins at a humiliating Rs5,200 per month for constables and increases at a snail's pace as one goes upwards. The Director of CBI, sitting at the top of the entire hierarchy, earns not more than Rs80,000

Madness has a method CBI needs more funds, freedom but Pakistan has none
ellicosity and madness both have a method .But when it comes to Pakistan it has none. It is shocking to see a nation that was brokered hard by its architect Mohammed Ali Jinnah falling apart because of its own contradictions. We say in India ---Vinash Kale Vipreet Budhey -when your end is near, the power of discrimination within you fades. Pakistan is a classic case of the demise of a nation that had its foundations made on assumptions and opportunistic calculations. Nations do not endure on opportunism and hate professing. Responsible nations, no doubt, do not thrive on exporting terror and frenzy. Today, Pakistan has become a festering sore of international terrorism. The passage of a resolution in the National Assembly of Pakistan glorifying Afzal Guru and demanding complete vacation of security forces from Jammu and Kashmir is a pointer towards a grim fact. The terrorism in Pakistan has come of age. When the political system of the country praises the terrorists and glorifies them it means something far deeper lies within the body politic of that nation. That something needs to be analyzed by the combined wisdom of this great nation. How long will India continue to live in a self made delusion regarding Pakistan? After all there is a limit to everything wrong. There is a limit to madness too but when things go over the seam effective control measures have to be taken in order to ensure that the interests of India, both strategic and otherwise are not only safeguarded but also made secure for coming generations. The act of Pakistani Assembly in making a martyr out of a terror monger is a blatant violation of established rules of constructive engagement. We wonder what made Pakistan push for a patently anti -human and anti- democratic resolution that will not help it. But one thing that we should not lose sight of is the fact that Pakistan was created on the basis of hate and it did not have a solid reason to survive. Now the time is approaching when it will fall apart but before that it will cause us a lot of trouble. Pakistan is something of a star which has expended its energy and is now within the reach of an internal collapse. What are our options in view of the blatant brazenness displayed by this rogue neighbor? It is no secret that the constructive engagement that India started with Pakistan under Vajpayee regime has failed. It is no use to flag a dead horse. Pakistan is getting restive because it sees an opportunity in Afghanistan after the scheduled withdrawal of American forces from that country in 2014. The strategic depth that Pakistan is lacking is being reshaped and rebuild by Pakistan in league with Taliban elements. They know that India has not responded strongly when Mumbai or Parliament attack took place. So they are again testing the patience of India and want to renew the sagging morale of militants in the valley. By doing so, Pakistan thinks it can internationalise the Issue of Kashmir. They will get nothing from it. They have got nothing from the K-issue in the past. But by rewiring the terror networking they will be able to force India to a weak spot where from they could strike a bargain in their favour. Whatever are the Pakistani calculations, we in India have to jointly respond to the brazenness of Pakistan? The talks and all the so called confidence building measures have failed to warm the Pakistani hearts. Now the time has come to act. We must act decisively. War may not be an option but India must isolate Pakistan internationally by taking up strongly the issue of human rights in Baluchistan and extermination of minorities within Pakistan. It must force an international diplomatic embargo on Pakistan by making strenuous efforts in exposing the rogue country in the world capitals. One more step that we have not tried before is to ignore Pakistan. We can live without Pakistan and let them live without us. Why should India go out of way to accord warm receptions to the artists, sportspersons and political leader of Pakistan? Let us make a sincere effort to strengthen our resolve to deal with a patently rogue country Like Pakistan. We can live without them and if they are not responsive to our friendly overtures let they be sidelined within the region. For that we need a strong political will. And the people of this country know that the present dispensation or any other in the past has not displayed the toughness which is needed when we are dealing with a country which knows no rules of living with amity. For the present, noises will be raised over the Pakistani meddling in our internal affairs but soon everything will be again forgotten. Our soldiers will continue to be killed in Kashmir; their bodies will again be mutilated or worse still some more Mumbai or Parliament attack will be executed by Pakistani establishment. How long will we tolerate the animosity and hate that is being exported from across the border? It should be obvious to all that by passing a resolution in favour of a terror mastermind, Pakistan has gone too far where from the road to peace will be difficult to traverse.

per month (which is only around $1,500). Compare this to the salary of a new FBI special agent who draws nothing less than $43,000 as his base annualised salary. And the reasons for such a pathetic allocation are also very obvious. Keeping the CBI small and confined allows the Government to dictate the working of the bureau and also allows the 'powers that be' to dodge investigation. Moreover, a financially crunched bureau, to a large extent, could and would facilitate (by acts of commission or omission) corporate scandals and political corruption for all the obvious reasons. Going by the way corruption cases and scams are being exposed, the CBI needs to be made an independent, investigative body. This should start with an allocation that is at least 10 times that of the current pittance. The money must be necessarily used for the expansion of the bureau with units in almost all cities across the nation. Another huge chunk of the allocation should be dedicated towards improving the CBI's technology to state-of-the-art standards and towards establishment of modern research labs. Finally, the salary of the staff should be made at par with their counterparts across the world. No agent would be able to do justice to his role if his life is surrounded with financial worries and an indecent living condition.

BITTER HARVEST

The Italian marines' issue could be damaging for the Gandhis

BY SWAPAN DASGUPTA rime Minister Manmohan Singh has often been mocked for his persistent refusal to speak on issues that warrant interventions at the highest level of government. It is a commentary on the potential consequences of the two Italian marines refusing to return to India for their trial on charges of killing two Indian fishermen on the high seas that he actually spoke on the subject in both the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday. More to the point, he departed from his usual mealy-mouthed cautiousness and spoke sternly of "consequences for our relations with Italy" if the authorities in Rome persisted in violating a solemn assurance made by the government of India to the Supreme Court that the two accused would return to Kerala for their trial after the Christmas holidays. The reason why the prime minister felt compelled to make an intervention, rather than leave it to the external affairs minister, Salman Khurshid, is obvious. For the Congress, Italy has always been a touchy subject - at least ever since the Bofors scandal broke in Sweden in 1988. Those with memories will recall that businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi fled India (or, rather, was allowed to flee) in haste on the night of July 29-30, 1993, after the Swiss authorities had confirmed a Bofors trail to his bank accounts. And Quattrocchi was no ordinary Italian business representative of Snamprogetti; he was well-known in Delhi as a man who flaunted his social connection with Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi. What the Congress legitimately fears is that any murky controversy involving either Italy or even an Italian citizen has the potential of being viewed in the bazars of India as - what former BJP minister, Jaswant Singh, slyly called - an "Italian Job". The allusion was, of

To be fair, there is very little to suggest that Sonia Gandhi consciously played up her Italian origins. Even Tavleen Singh's best-selling Durbar, which claims to provide a ringside view of Rajiv and Sonia from the time they were private citizens, doesn't dwell on Sonia flaunting her Italian-ness. Indeed, after the chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance was badly singed for her association with Quattrocchi, she has taken exceptional care to leave her national origins far behind and project herself as an Indian bahu, a person who has imbibed the culture, traditions and ethos of her husband's family. I have personally heard innumerable anecdotes from European journalists and diplomats indicating that she has invariably replied in English when addressed in Italian. Sonia can't do much about her accent, which continues to be decidedly Italian, but in everything else she has ensured that there is little overt traces of foreign-ness in her public persona.
course, to the cult film of a wonderfully-executed robbery of gold ingots. The 1989 election, which saw Rajiv Gandhi's steamroller majority crumble, for example, witnessed the explosion of evocative ditties alluding to the then prime minister's special relationship with his sasural. Indeed, it became customary for Italy to be dubbed as the "nation-in-law" and for the mythical ideal of a Ram rajya to be juxtaposed against the Congress' Rome rajya. To be fair, there is very little to suggest that Sonia Gandhi consciously played up her Italian origins. Even Tavleen Singh's bestselling Durbar, which claims to provide a ringside view of Rajiv and Sonia from the time they were private citizens, doesn't dwell on Sonia flaunting her Italian-ness. Indeed, after the chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance was badly singed for her association with Quattrocchi, she has taken exceptional care to leave her national origins far behind and project herself as an Indian bahu, a person who has imbibed the culture, traditions and ethos of her husband's family. I have personally heard innumerable anecdotes from European journalists and diplomats indicating that she has invariably replied in English when addressed in Italian. Sonia can't do much about her accent, which continues to be decidedly Italian, but in everything else she has ensured that there is little overt traces of foreignness in her public persona. It is this conscious attempt to Indianize herself that may explain why the 'foreign origin' issue has been carrying diminishing returns. In March 1999, the fact of her Italyborn status was certainly a factor behind her inability to muster the numbers to form a government after the Atal Behari Vajpayee government failed the floor test by a single vote. There is sufficient anecdotal evidence to suggest that the reluctance of Mulayam Singh Yadav and even the wariness of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) to endorse a Sonia-led government were in a large measure due to a larger national wariness over a "foreigner" occupying the top political job. On her part, Sonia imbibed the lessons of the failure of 1999. Therefore, when she had the opportunity in May 2004 to become prime minister- despite Sushma Swaraj's awesome threat to discard her hair in mourning - she allowed her "inner voice" to pass on the responsibility to Manmohan Singh. Today, Sonia remains the foremost political authority in both the Congress and the UPA government. Additionally, Sonia has a keen sense of political calculation that is inspired by her mother-in-law: her political distance from Rajiv is marked. Yet, it is precisely due to the fact that she was born an Italian citizen that she has been unable to translate her status as head of the Congress dynasty to a Constitutional position. Acknowledging this does not, in any way, undermine her pre-eminence in the present political establishment. Nor does it diminish her responsibility for the overall performance of the UPA government. In the public imagination at least, both the successes and the failures of the UPA since 2004 are attributed to her. In the more cloistered world of the political class, this extends to the UPA's dismal record in controlling corruption. Even the controversial business practices of her son-inlaw, Robert Vadra, have been pinned on her indulgence. However, being a step removed from the day-to-day grind of governance has enabled Sonia to establish a distinct political positioning. In fiscal terms, the UPA's expansion of the welfare net may well be grossly irresponsible. However, her proactive role in establishing the MNREGA and getting the proposed National Food Security Act passed has established her so-called 'propoor' credentials - something that appeals to Congress activists who believe in hand-outs as the route to electoral success. Although India is no longer a shortage economy bolstered by an inefficient public sector, Sonia stands out in the emerging market economy as the Lady Bountiful, doing 'good works' for the poor and the vulnerable. If 2014 was going to be a 'normal' election with no apparent dominant theme and no star personality, this blend of Mother India and Mother Teresa may well have fulfilled the Congress' desire to remain in the reckoning as the default party

of India. Unfortunately, the slowdown of the economy, the well-publicized cases of mega corruption and the perceived sense of drift may well make the polls into something more significantly dramatic - especially if Narendra Modi emerges as the challenger. At this juncture, when the Congress appears so fragile and heir-apparent Rahul Gandhi presents himself as so uninspiring, the last thing the Congress would want is for some additional controversy to shake the first family. The issue of the Italian marines, seen in isolation, would appear like an embarrassment. However, read with the investigations in Italy into the bribes given for the purchase of AgustaWestland helicopters and the real estate greed of Vadra, there is every danger that the Gandhi family could suffer huge collateral damage. The mood in Italy is dead against any return of the absconding marines to India. But Indian national pride could equally come to the fore if New Delhi attempts a workable compromise solution. Already there are dark hints of a quid pro quo that would involve the Italian authorities going very slow on the inquiries into the bribes allegedly paid by AgustaWestland. Most conspiracy theories can never be substantiated by hard evidence. However, electoral trials are based almost exclusively on perceptions. People, as Modi rightly pointed out in a different context last week, tend to forgive the lapses of a regime that is otherwise seen to provide good governance. The Congress cannot, at this juncture, hope for such generosity. On the contrary, the UPA may well be victim to the perverse habit of believing the worst of anyone who is down. Sonia has so far escaped this onrush of spite. But unless the government can resolve the present Italian muddle, the Congress president could well be its unintended victim.

READERS SPACE
Terror Attack in Srinagar
Dear Sir The terror attack in Srinagar which claimed the lives of five CRPF personnel calls for the lifting of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act from Jammu and Kashmir. This only shows that some of us are dreaming of ideal solutions to a complicated issue. The truth which no one is willing to admit is that it is AFSPA that helps Omar Abdullah maintain a semblance of authority in Kashmir. His demand that it be lifted may be a ruse to pacify militants and may not be based on the security considerations of his government. Lifting of AFSPA

will not help the government solve the Kashmir problem; it will only complicate the security situation. No matter how hard the Centre and the J&K government try, it is difficult to evolve a solution on Kashmir because Pakistan wants to keep the issue alive. Yours Etc. Sudesh Khajuria Paddar,Kishtwar

A Katju prescription
I do feel that Justice Katju's intention for making such a suggestion was to uplift the level of professionalism of jour-

nalism today (March 13). There may be many who argue that this is irrelevant by giving examples of world-class journalists without degrees. But in today's world where there is so much of untruth around and with money becoming the prime focus, journalists have lost the art of connecting with people. He is right in saying that by getting trained more or having qualifications for the professions where they like to be in, one gets more passionate about it. It also equips one with the theoretical concepts of journalism which helps a journalist to see the ground reality with close journalistic acumen. Yours Etc. Mohd Tajjudin Ramban

Page 1_.qxd 3/17/2013 11:42 AM Page 6

STUDENT AGE SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2013

NATIONAL

ANTI-RAPE BILL BSP will support anti-rape bill: Mayawati Will oppose anti-rape bill at all-party meet: SP
NEW DELHI: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Friday made it clear that her party will support the new anti-rape bill and not oppose it. "I would like to make it very clear about this that our party will support the anti-rape bill being brought by the Central Government, be it any form and shape. Our party will support it and not oppose it," Mayawati told media here. "If we have to give any suggestions, we will give in the all-party meeting, but we will not oppose this bill," she added. A bill providing for stringent punishment for crimes against women, including rape, and also defining acid attack, stalking and voyeurism as criminal offences, was cleared by the Union Cabinet yesterday. The bill, brought against the backdrop of the 16th December Delhi gang-rape, provides for minimum jail term of 20 years for rape consent from 18 years to 16 years, a move opposed by some BJP and Samajwadi Party legislators. The bill had divided the Cabinet at its special meeting on Tuesday and was referred to a Group of Ministers (GoM) to sort out differences on various aspects of the proposed law. The GoM finalised the draft on Wednesday amidst the government's keenness to expedite the bill that will replace an ordinance promulgated on February 3. It may be recalled that the Centre had constituted the Justice Verma Committee to recommend changes in the laws that deal with crimes against women in wake of nationwide protest against the gang-rape of a 23-year-old woman on a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012. NEW DELHI: Rubbishing the anti-rape bill, Samajwadi Party on Friday said that it will oppose its recommendations in Parliament and at the all-party meeting. "We are opposed to the Bill. It has been framed on the recommendations of some mentally-retarded people," SP leader Ramgopal Yadav told reporters. He was asked about the SP's stand on the anti-rape law, which has been cleared by the Cabinet and states that the age of consent be reduced to 16 from 18 years. Yadav made it clear that SP will oppose the Bill at the allparty meeting convened by the government on March 18 to evolve a consensus for its smooth passage. The antirape Ordinance lapses on April 4 and the government is keen on passing the legislation before the Parliament session recess which begins on March 22. "If the Bill comes to Parliament and there is voting, we will vote against it," 'natural life' of the convict in jail or even death if the victim dies or is left in a 'persistent vegetative state'. The bill also provides for lowering the age of consent for sex from 18 to 16 years, one of the contentious provisions which held up the proposed legislation briefly and had to be referred to a Group of Ministers for consensus. The Ordinance had maintained the consent age as 18 years. The bill also uses the term 'rape' which will be gender- specific, in contrast to the gender-neutral 'sexual assault' as proposed in the ordinance. This means only men can be booked for the crime. Stalking and voyeurism have been defined as criminal offences in the bill. Sustained stalking will be a non- bailable offence.

Akhilesh promises to tone up law and order

LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, who completed his first year in power Friday, conceded that law and order in the state was a "matter for concern" and that "one bad incident can destroy the image and efforts" of his government. Interacting with media persons, he said he was watching officials and would take action against those not working. "There are good officials and bad officials, I urge everyone to work for the prosperity of the state," he said while spelling out the priorities of the state government. In a lighter vein, Akhilesh Yadav said that he and his party understood that IAS officials were "Invisible after Sarkaar".

which may be extended to ''natural life'' of the convict in jail. There is also provision for death sentence if the victim dies or is left in a ''persistent vegetative state''. This bill will be discussed by the leaders of all political parties on Monday. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2013, which was cleared by a group of ministers yesterday, proposes to lower the age of

Yadav said. The Union Cabinet yesterday cleared a bill providing for stringent punishment for rape, acid attack, stalking and voyeurism besides reducing the age of consent for sex to 16 years. The bill, brought against the backdrop of the December 16 Delhi gangrape, provides for minimum jail term of 20 years for rape which may be extended to

Asserting that his government had succeded in bringing back democracy to the state, the chief minister said he was happy that many of the poll promises, including distribution of free laptops and the unemployment allowance, were fulfilled. "By implementing the poll promises, a new culture has been ushered in the state and we would like to continue with the pace," he said.

Violence in Kashmir not an answer and killings must stop: UN

UNITED NATIONS: In the wake of a terror attack in Kashmir that claimed the lives of five Indian security personnel, UN chief Ban Ki-moon Friday said violence is not the answer to any problem and the killings must stop. "What he (Ban) has said in cases such as this; violence is not the answer, violence should come to an end and that the killings must stop," Eduardo del Buey, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, told reporters yesterday in response to a question on the current situation in Kashmir. Two terrorists disguised as cricketers stormed a CRPF camp near a school at Bemina, killing five of its personnel on Wednesday in a major suicide attack in Srinagar. The two 'fidayeens'(suicide militants), who entered the Police Public School school ground in the outskirts of the city hiding automatic rifles and grenades in cricket kits, were eliminated after a 30-minute gun battle following the attack.

Kalam gives pass marks to Indian democracy

NEW DELHI: Former president APJ Abdul Kalam on Friday gave "pass marks" to the over six-decade old Indian democracy awarding it "five points on a scale of 10", while observing that its fundamental principle to empower citizens will stay forever. Kalam also appreciated the financial expertise of PM Manmohan Singh, while applauding Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his fast decision making ability. In reply to a question on how would he rate the performance of Indian democracy on a scale of 10, he said, "When I see from 1947 to 2013, we have a Constitution as a dynamic step for taking the democracy on... Answering your question I put five out of 10." When asked further that it does not indicate a very good performance, he said, "Well, pass mark." "Manmohan Singhji an expert in the field of finance. No doubt to that he is an expert in the field. So, I value his judgement in economy and all, any suggestion to major issues and I have got that respect for him. Vajpayee takes fast decision. These are two differences. I hope both are complimentary," he said. Kalam recalled that he spent his tenure as President with both Singh and Vajpayee. "I worked with two Prime Ministers as the President. I have worked with Vajpayeeji and Manmohan Singhji. 50 per cent with Vajpayeeji and 50 per cent with Manmohan Singh," he said. In his speech, Kalam said the empowered minds of youths are the biggest powers for a nation and under a democracy they want a faster growth for the country. "Nation is bigger than political system... Let's evolve into a society that respects and celebrates differences tolerant to other beliefs, culture & tastes. In a democracy, every citizen has the right live with dignity & aspire for distinction," he said.

Railway minister justifies fare hike, hints at more

NEW DELHI: Railway Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal Friday justified the recent hike in fares and hinted at further hikes to fill the income-expenditure gap as the Rajya Sabha passed the railway budget for 201314. "It is our duty that people get a safe journey at affordable prices. I agree we should not consider it a business organisation but the mandate of railways should be on a strong financial principle... We also have a national responsibility," Bansal said responding to a debate on the rail budget for 2013-14 in the upper house of parliament. The railway passenger fares were hiked in January, a month before the rail budget was presented. The budget was passed by voice vote. Bansal said the government's percent or less... That means Rs.80 should be spent to earn Rs.100. That Rs.20, which is earned, will be spent on facilities," Bansal said. "It used to be so. But in recent years, operating ratio went as high as 94.7 percent. We need to bring it back to 80 percent," he said. The minister said the railways could not go on increasing freight charges and leave passenger fares unchanged. "Railways used to carry 80 percent of freight. Today it's 36 percent. Do you want us to be out of the market? It is necessary to see that the freight sector should not be burdened. We must have a balanced approach," he said.

decision to raise passenger fares was accepted by most people and the railways needed to make at least 20 percent profit to continue running. "It is very important for railways. Operating ratio should be 80

TRS' no-confidence motion against Congress in Andhra assembly

HYDERABAD: The no-confidence motion moved by the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) in the Andhra Pradesh assembly against the Congress government was Friday admitted for debate. Speaker N. Manohar granted "leave of the house" to the TRS motion for no-confidence in the council of ministers after 45 members supported it. Manohar adjourned the house to enable the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) to meet and decide the modalities for debate and voting on the motion. YSR Congress party, which had given a separate notice to move a no-confidence motion, supported the motion moved by TRS leader E. Rajender. The sub-regional party accused the Congress government of all-round failure. All 17 members of TRS, YSR Congress (18), Bharatiya Janata Party (3), Communist Party of India (3), Communist Party of India-Marxist (1) and Lok Satta (1) stood in support of the motion. Independent legislator N. Janardhan Reddy also supported the motion. The main opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP) had asked its members to remain neutral. However, defying the party diktat, one member, Harishwar Reddy, supported the no-confidence motion. Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM), which has seven legislators and recently withdrew support to the government, did not back the TRS motion. Congress has 146 members in 295-member assembly. However, TDP, which has 77 legislators, has so far refused to back the motion by TRS or YSR Congress, saying it would not fall in their trap. TDP leaders alleged that the two small parties moved the no-confidence motion for vested interests.

Debnath is Tripura speaker for third time

AGARTALA: Communist Party of IndiaMarxist's (CPI-M) Ramendra Chandra Debnath was Friday elected speaker of the Tripura assembly for the third consecutive term. Pro-tem Speaker Niranjan Debbarma announced that the 60-year-old lawyer-turned politician was elected unanimously as there was no other candidate for the post. Debnath has held the post since 2003. Debnath, also a former minister, waas elected to the Tripura assembly uninterruptedly for the fifth time in the Feb 14 election from Yubarajnagar. A week-long session of the newly assembly began Friday with the customary speech of Governor D.Y. Patil. Finance Minister Badal Chowdhury presented a vote-on-account for the first three months of the 2013-14 fiscal. A full-fledged budget for 2013-14 would be presented within the next three months, Chowdhury said. Scripting a record, this would be Chowdhury's 16th budget. The Left Front led by the CPI-M (49 seats) and including the Communist Party of India (one seat) won 50 of the 60 seats. The Congress won only 10 seats.

Stop violence against opposition: Tripura CM

AGARTALA: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar Friday asked the police and civil administration to stop the post-poll violence in the northeastern state. On the opening day of the week-long session of the new assembly Friday, opposition Congress legislators protested about post-poll violence before walking out. Responding to the Congress legislators' allegation, Sarkar said: "I have asked the director general of police to take steps irrespective of political connections to stop the violence. All district magistrates have been asked to submit reports within 10 days about the hostilities." "During and after the Feb 14 assembly polls in Tripura, some speeches and comments prompted these post-poll violence," said Sarkar, who also holds the home portfolio. Earlier, Congress leaders Sudip Roy Barman, Ratan Lal Nath and Gopal Roy alleged in the house that after last month's assembly polls, violence against the opposition party members has been unleashed by the ruling CPIM (Communist Party of IndiaMarxist) cadres. "The violence intensified after the declaration of the election result Feb 28. Houses, shops and rubber gardens belonging to Congressmen were either burnt down or damaged in the series of attacks across the state," Barman said. He said that many women were raped and people left Tripura for neighbouring Assam and Mizoram, and even Bangladesh, to evade attacks. Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, accompanied by Congress general secretary in-charge of the northeastern states Luizinho Faleiro and Congress general secretary Shakeel Ahmed, earlier this month visited Tripura to take stock of the violence. Gogoi and other Congress leaders also met Tripura Governor D.Y. Patil and requested him to ask the state government to stop the political hostilities and attacks.

Odisha minister resigns over dowry charges

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha's minister for housing and urban development, law, and information technology, Rahunath Mohanty, Friday resigned after his daughterin-law accused him of torturing her for dowry. "I have resigned on moral grounds to enable police to conduct an independent probe. There is no truth in the allegation," Mohanty said after submitting his papers to chief minister Naveen Patnaik here. His resignation comes a day after his daughter-in-law Barsa Swony Choudhury lodged a written complaint at the district headquarters town of Balasore, about 215 km from here, alleging that the minister and his family had been demanding dowry of Rs.25 lakh and a multi-utility vehicle. In her complaint, Choudhury alleged that the minister and his family tortured her physically and mentally, ever since she married to the minister's son Raja Shree Mohanty June 2012. She claimed that her parents had given Rs.10 lakh at the time of the marriage, as was demanded, but her father-inlaw and the rest of the family were unhappy and insisted that her parents should pay Rs.25 lakh and a multi-utility vehicle. The cabinet minister, however, refuted the allegations. "The allegations are false, and everybody knows we would not do that. The truth will be out soon, and the law will take its course," Mohanty said.

India may vote against Sri Lanka at Geneva

NEW DELHI: Despite Sri Lanka's hopes, India is likely to back the US-sponsored resolution at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva against Colombo - if there is a vote. But this decision will not be influenced by the anger in Tamil Nadu against the killing of large numbers of Tamil civilians by the Sri Lankan military in the war against the Tamil Tigers. New Delhi is convinced that while rehabilitation of the war displaced is taking place in the island's northeast in some measure, Sri Lanka does not seem to be sincere vis-a-vis national reconciliation. In any case, the situation at the ongoing UN meet in Geneva is different from last year when also the US piloted a resolution pulling up Sri Lanka for rights abuses and more. In a move that shook Sri Lanka, India broke ranks with the rest of South Asia and voted for the US resolution that got passed despite hectic lobbying by Colombo. The 47-member UNHRC membership is rotational. Russia, Cuba and China, which were among Colombo's backers last year, are no more in the Council. Last year, after Sri Lanka's refusal to deal with Washington, India engaged with US diplomats and toned down the resolution, deleting references to its intrusive aspects. Like many developing countries, India remains sensitive to Western moves that could be construed as interference in a country's sovereign affairs. This time, Pakistan and some likeminded countries are said to be talking to US diplomats, apparently on behalf of Sri Lanka. Despite strident demands from political players in Tamil Nadu, the Congressled central government has not revealed how it will vote this year. One reason is that the US resolution is subject to amendments, and India will wait to see its final shape. Second, there is a possibility that the resolution may be adopted by consensus, in which case it will be futile for India to reveal its cards - at this point. Colombo seems to have realized that the dice is more heavily loaded against it at Geneva now compared to 2012.

Government to amend minimum wages law: Minister

NEW DELHI: Labour and Employment Minister Mallikarjun Kharge Friday said the minimum wages act would be amended to make the minimum wages announced by the centre "statutory for all states and applicable to all jobs". Kharge told the Rajya Sabha that the government would amend the minimum wages act to prescribe the "national floor-level minimum wages, which will be made statutory for all states and applicable to all jobs". "At present, the provisions of the minimum wages act are not applicable to those employments where the total number of workers in a state is less than 1,000. After the amendment, the act will be applicable to a l l employments," Kharge s a i d w h i l e responding to a calling attention motion on the recent trade union strike. The mega-strike Feb 2021 was called by the country's 11 registered trade unions, demanding the government to control price rise, increase minimum wages a n d ensure rights of workers a l o n g with several other demands. The minister said the government was also planning to amend the Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act. "The amendments propose that in case where contract labourers perform the same or similar work as the workmen directly appointed by the principal employer, the wage rates, holidays, social security provisions of the contract labourers shall be the same as are available to the directly appointed workmen," the minister said. When confronted by opposition members, the minister said there was problem in the implementation of labour laws as states were responsible for the same. "The responsibility to implement labour laws is with the states. We can only guide through central policies," the minister said.

Page 1_.qxd 3/17/2013 11:42 AM Page 7

STUDENT AGE SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2013

INTERNATIONAL & ECONOMY

7
an audience with all cardinals and will do the traditional Angelus blessing Sunday. cars and who is a simple pastor". Lombardi also said it will be the first Jesuit pope, admitting his surprise, because "Jesuits think of themselves servants, not authorities in the church", the spokesman sad. One of Pope Francis' first acts was to give a telephone call to Benedict XVI, Pope emeritus. Pope Benedict XVI, 85, stepped down Feb 28, blaming his failing health for his inability to "govern the barque of St. Peter". He was the first pontiff to resign in some 600 years. Benedict had become the 265th Pope in 2005 following his predecessor John Paul II's death.

US commander warns Karzai remarks put troops at risk

KABUL: The US commander in Afghanistan has warned his troops face an increased threat of attack from militants and rogue Afghan forces after a series of inflammatory anti-US comments from President Hamid Karzai. NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) confirmed the contents of a stronglyworded advisory that United States General Joseph Dunford sent to his senior commanders on Wednesday. "Karzai's remarks could be a catalyst for some to lash out against our forces he may also issue orders that put our forces at risk," Dunford said. Dunford's warning came after Karzai accused the US of colluding with the Taliban to justify its presence in Afghanistan and banned foreign troops from university campuses due to unproven claims of harassment of students. The president has also clashed with the US military over repeated delays to the scheduled handover of Afghan detainees. The allegation of collusion provoked fury among US officials, as both for NATO troops in Afghanistan so far this year. Two US soldiers were killed and 10 wounded in a advisory. "(Militants) are also watching and will look for a way to exploit the situation -- they have already ramped up for the spring." Speaking Sunday after two suicide bombers killed 19 people; Karzai accused the United States of colluding with the Taliban and said such attacks enabled the USled military force to justify its presence in Afghanistan. After an outraged response, Karzai said his comments were intended to "correct" rather than damage US-Afghan relations and acknowledged there were serious bilateral strains as the NATO-led coalition starts to withdraw. "The president called the United States a friend and strategic partner of Afghanistan and said his recent comments had been to correct rather than damage this relationship," officials said. "The president said that both countries are in a critical stage of relations, therefore it is natural that each side tries to stand for and focus on its national interests."

Mass for inauguration of Pope Francis March 19

ROME: The Mass for the inauguration of new Pope Francis will be held March 19, Vatican spokesman Rev. Federico Lombardi said. Lombardi said, "the Mass for the inauguration of the Petrine Ministry will be held March 19th, the feast of St. Joseph, at 09.30 Rome time", the Vatican spokesman said. Argentina's Jorge Mario Bergoglio, 76, known as "Padre Jorge" among his faithful in Buenos Aires, was elected by cardinals from across the world as the new, 266th, head of the Roman Catholic Church. Lombardi said that before March 19, the new pope will hold

nations negotiate the framework that could allow some American troops to remain in Afghanistan when NATO combat troops leave next year. "This advisory was prudent given increased coalition casualties in recent days. General Dunford's email is simply an example of this vigilance," ISAF said. Seven American soldiers died on Monday, the deadliest day

suspected "insider" attack by a man dressed in Afghan army uniform, while five Americans were killed in a helicopter crash that was blamed on bad weather. Last month Karzai ordered US Special Forces out of Wardak, a strategic province adjacent to Kabul, and stopped Afghan forces from calling in US air strikes. "We're at a rough point in the relationship," Dunford said in his

The Vatican Today also reported that Lombardi described his fellow Jesuit Pope Francis as "a man, who cooks for himself, takes public transport rather than using

John Kerry to visit Asia next month

WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State John Kerry will make his first trip to Asia next month with stops in South Korea, Japan and China, the State Department said The top American envoy will first attend the meetings of the Group of Eight industrialized nations in London April 10-11 before heading for Asia, State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said. "During his trip to Seoul, Tokyo and Beijing, the secretary cooperation and the environment," officials said. "During these engagements, the secretary will continue to affirm the administration's commitment to further broaden and enhance US economic security and strategic interests in the Asia Pacific region." Kerry toured nine countries in Europe and the Middle East from Feb 24 to March 6 after he took office Feb 1, with focus on the two-year-old conflict in Syria.

France and Britain willing to arm Syrian rebels

DAMASCUS: France has joined Britain in voicing its willingness to supply weapons to Syria's rebels if it cannot convince its European partners to lift an arms embargo as the conflict enters its third year. "Our goal is to convince our partners at the end of May, and if possible before.... If by chance there is a blockage by one or two countries, then France will take its responsibilities," President Francois Hollande said after talks on the first day of a European Union summit in Brussels. "Political solutions have now failed (in Syria), despite every pressure," Hollande said, on the eve of Friday's second anniversary of the start of the bloody conflict between the Syrian regime and the rebels seeking to topple it. The United Nations says at least 70,000 people have been EU to drop the arms ban a move opposed by some European governments, who fear a flood of weapons into Syria will only escalate the conflict. Syrian opposition activists have called on London and Paris to provide heavy weaponry to tilt the balance in the two-year uprising. Assad's government, like its key foreign ally Russia, said any such arms shipments would be a "flagrant violation" of international law. The United States may look favorably on the French and British moves to give more aid to Syrian rebel forces, the State Department said, without explicitly backing armed support. "We're obviously not going to get in the middle of their internal discussions, but we certainly want to see as many governments as possible provide appropriate support to the Syrian opposition coalition," said State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland in Washington. However, Berlin is known to be cool to the idea and on Thursday German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the EU needed to "proceed very cautiously" on lifting the embargo. "If our partners in the European Union, in this case Britain and France, have a changed assessment of the situation, then the foreign ministers are of course ready to discuss this subject again," she said. "But we have to be careful that the other side will not be provided with even more arms by countries that have another stance on Assad," Merkel said.

will meet with his counterparts and discuss the full range of bilateral, multilateral and regional issues as well as our economic

Russia to acquire standoff attack capability by 2020

MOSCOW: The Russian armed forces should be capable of conducting standoff engagementbased operations to minimize service casualties by 2020, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said on Friday. The Russian Armed Forces should be capable of "reaching the enemy before he reaches us, and destroying him even before he starts thinking about destroying our servicemen," Rogozin said a senior staff meeting at the Russian Federal Defense Contracts Service (Rosoboronzakaz). Rogozin said it was very important to draw lessons from "the tragic events of August 2008 when our armed forces had to conduct a peace enforcement operation against an aggressor", referring to the brief war that year between Russia and Georgia over Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The Russian armed forces suffered 67 fatalities in the five-day 2008 war with Georgia, according to Russian defense ministry statistics quoted in a report by the Center for Analysis, Strategy and Technologies, a Moscow-based think-tank. Of those, 48 were the result of enemy activity, it said. That report also noted a fall in the capability of the Russian Air Force to provide tactical air power, and therefore a need for more deployment of tactical ballistic missile systems such as Tochka and Iskander.

killed in Syria since the uprising erupted in mid-March 2011. "We must go further because for two years there has been a clear willingness by (Syrian President) Bashar al-Assad to use every means to hit at his own people," he added. France said earlier that Paris and London were pushing for the

ECONOMY

BRICS to surpass combined GDP of US, western Europe by 2020: UN

NEW DELHI: The combined output of BRICS countries will surpass the aggregate GDP of the US, Canada and other European nations by 2020. "By 2020, the combined economic output of three leading developing countries alone - Brazil, China and India - will surpass the aggregate production of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States," said the United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) 2013 Human Development Report. Brazil, Russia, India, China, and latest member South Africa, make up the BRICS group of emerging economies. The growth phenomenon goes well beyond the BRICS middle income countries. The Report shows that more than 40 developing countries have made greater human development gains in recent decades than would have been predicted. "The rise of the South is unprecedented in its speed and scale," the report says. "Never in history have the living conditions and prospects of so many people changed so dramatically and so fast." The rise of the South is radically reshaping the 21st century world with developing nations driving economic growth, lifting hundreds of millions of people from poverty, and bringing billions more into a new global middle class, it said. By 2030, more than 80 per cent of the world's middle class and 70 per cent of total consumption expenditure will come from the South - a term that denotes developing countries. The South as a whole is driving global economic growth and societal change for the first time in centuries, the report said. According to the report, the economic take-offs in China and India began when their respective populations reached about one billion and per capita output doubled in less than 20 years, resulting in an economic growth that affected a much larger population than the Industrial Revolution. The South is increasingly interdependent and interconnected. Brazil, China, India, Indonesia and Mexico now have more daily social media traffic than any country except the United States. However, India has averaged nearly five percent income growth a year over 1990-2012 and per capita income is still low, around $3,400 in 2012, it said India's performance in accelerating human development is less impressive than its growth performance, the 2013 report said. India's position in Human Development Index was 136 out of 187 countries in 2012. It ranked 134 in 2011. The UNDP report said, however, that it is misleading to compare values and rankings with those of previously published reports, because the underlying data and methods have changed.

India seeks to invest India clears 63 FDI proposals in single brand retail more in Indonesia
S U R A B A Y A (INDONESIA): India would like to expand bilateral business and trade relations by investing more in Indonesia, Indian Ambassador Gurjit Singh said at a business roundtable where opportunities in various sectors like infrastructure, mining, energy, oil and gas, and food processing were discussed. Singh met Soekarwo, governor of East Java province, and said that the focus was on investment, capacity building and transfer of technology. He added that Indian companies are keen to invest more in Indonesia. The ambassador led a 14member India Business Forum delegation to Surabaya, capital of East Java, and Indonesia's secondlargest city. The meeting was followed by a business roundtable where the Indian delegation made presentations on various sectors of interest to East Java, like infrastructure, power and IT. In its presentation about potential of investment in East Java, the Investment Board mentioned about opportunities in various sectors, like infrastructure, mining, energy, oil and gas, geothermal, automotive parts, food processing, chemical, metal and machines, electronics. Ambassador Singh said that several Indian companies have already invested in East Java. He asked the Investment Board to provide more details of the infrastructure projects for clarity on the terms of investment. He said that the need of the hour is to set up manufacturing base for value addition.

Volvo's Cross Country sedan to debut in India soon

BANGALORE: Swedish luxury carmaker Volvo Auto will roll out its V40 Cross Country sedan in India by June to give a run for the money to competitors like BMW, Audi and Mercedes in the cross over sports utility vehicle(SUV) segment. "The luxury car segment in India is picking up speed and poised to grow faster in the coming years as the automobile industry matures and its users go for upward mobility," Volvo Auto India managing director Tomas Ernberg said on Friday. Volvo will ship its muchawaited V40 hatchback as a completely built unit from its plants in Belgium or Germany and will be pitted against competing brands like BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Mercedes A Class. "Cross Country will come with two engine options - 1.6liter petrol and 2.0-liter diesel but will not have the all-wheel drive technology," Ernberg said on the margins of a company event. In the run-up to the June launch, the subsidiary will display the Cross Country model at its dozen showrooms in metros across the country and park a couple of them for test drives by auto experts and select clients for feedback. Though Volvo is well known in India for its luxury buses and trucks in the transport sector over a decade, its luxury cars have been snapping up at the wheels to make a difference in the up-market segment. "Making a modest foray into India five years ago, we have been growing steadily to penetrate the luxury car segment, which still accounts for only one percent of the total automobile market in India," Ernberg said after unveiling Volvo's first dealership -Martial Motors Ltd in this tech hub to service its premium customers. While automakers had a bumpy ride in 2012 due to economic slowdown, high interest rates and negative sentiments, Volvo Auto had a dream run with a whopping 150 percent year-on-year (YoY) sales growth over 2011. "We sold 821 cars in 2012 as against 320 in 2011. The anticipated turnaround will enable us to clock 1,100 units this year, which will be a 35 percent increase YoY," Ernberg asserted. The subsidiary retails four luxury models in the Indian market - Volvo XC90, a seven-seater luxury SUV, Volvo XC60, a compact luxury SUV, Volvo S80, an elegant sedan and Volvo S60, a sporty sedan. The models are priced in the range of Rs.3.5-6.7 million. The southern market accounts for 55 percent of the company's sales in India. "South (India) is an important market for us and our presence in Bangalore signifies the potential of luxury cars in the region. Though we are not in the mass market of compact cars, our long-term strategy is stay invested in the luxury segment, which is poised to grow steadily in the coming years," Ernberg said.

Government to introduce new ITR form by month-end

NEW DELHI: Government will introduce new forms for filing of income tax returns for the assessment year 201314 by the end of this month, Minister of State for Finance S.S. Palanimanickam said on Friday. "The new forms for filing of income tax returns for the assessment year 2013-14 are proposed to be notified by the end of March 2013," Palanimanickam said. He said the new Income Tax Return (ITR) form would incorporate the changes introduced in the income tax regulations. "The government proposes to introduce new proce-

dures/forms for filing Income Tax returns. Every year government notifies forms for filing of income-tax returns after incorporating the changes brought out by the Finance Act of the previous year and the suggestions received from stakeholders," he said.

BANGALORE: Indian government has cleared 63 proposals for foreign direct investment (FDI) in single brand retail since the measure was allowed last year, union Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma said on Friday. "We have received and approved 63 proposals for FDI in single brand retail so far, Sharma said. Majority of the single brand retailers which are investing in India has already a sourcing base in the country and the trend is set to increase manifold," Sharma pointed out. "Most of the single brand retailers have sourcing base in the country and this will increase manifold," he said. The minister also admitted that British supermarkets chains Tesco and Sainsbury have applied for setting up their sourcing centers and enter the Indian retail sector subsequently. Sharma, who is on a twoday visit to this tech hub for official engagements, reiterated that the manufacturing sector had to grow at 10-12 percent annually to enable the Indian economy to return to nine percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate.

"It is a matter of serious concern that manufacturing has grown at a mere 0.9 percent this fiscal (2013-14)," he lamented while addressing students of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM-B) here. Though India has made its presence felt globally, it is yet to have one global brand of manufactured product when other developing countries like China, Taiwan and South Korea have many. "To address this major challenge, the government has come out with the national manufacturing policy to raise its share to GDP to 25 percent from 16 percent in the next decade and generate about 100 million productive jobs," Sharma noted. While Indian manufacturing has grown in strength over the decades, it has largely been confined to industries which are labor intensive such as textiles, leather, gems and jewellery. "To bring about a revolutionary change in the manufacturing sector, our enterprises have to embark on massive innovation to develop products for domestic and global markets, as Germany has done by investing heavily in technology and innovation," Sharma said.

Page 1_.qxd 3/17/2013 11:42 AM Page 8

STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2013

MISC

8 JU sports meet from March 18

JAMMU: Organized by the Campus Sports Committee in association with Department of Sports and Physical Education, the Inter-Department Sports Meet of University of Jammu shall start from March 18 on the campus, here. As per the laid down fixture, the sports meet shall start with competitions in women section. All the four events of Carrom, Chess, Badminton and Table Tennis shall resume on March 18 at Gymnasium Hall on the campus. Similarly, the men's sports meet, which included two more events of volleyball and cricket, shall take place from March 25 at different venues within the campus. However, the men's Twenty20 Cricket Tournament shall be played from April one. For cricket event, 27 teams, representing as many departments, shall compete for the top honors on knock-out basis. Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to head of the participating departments, Director Sports and Physical Education, Prof Dhian Singh Bhau has advised to depute teacher (games) incharge with the teams to help the organizers conduct the event in a smooth manner.

Saina Nehwal regains No2, Kashyap at career-best No7

India jumps 24 places, rises to 143rd in FIFA ranking

NEW DELHI: Despite its unimpressive performance in the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup Qualifiers earlier this month, the India football team jumped 24 places to occupy 143rd in the FIFA Rankings issued today. I n d i a earned 79 points this month for a total of 177 points and a jump from 167th to 143rd. Today's ranking is the best in more than two years, after the 142nd at the end of 2010. India had beaten Chinese Taipei (2-1) and Guam (4-0) before losing to Myanmar 01 in the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup Qualifiers in Yangon earlier this month. The country is now ranked 22nd among Asian countries and highest-ranked in South Asia. It is ranked higher than the likes of Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong,

Woodland's school team to conquer Everest

JAMMU, MARCH 14: Woodland, country's leading outdoor adventure gear brand t o d a y announced I n d i a ' s youngest sixmember team to scale M o u n t Everest and celebrate the 6 0 t h Anniversary of Everest Treks. The team of teens is proposed for a flag-off from India on April five and is set to make a world record of being world's first school team to climb Mount Everest. Announcing the team, Managing Director of Woodland, Harkirat Singh said, "Woodland is a name synonymous with adventure. We have always supported outdoor and adventure sports in the country be it an expedition to Arctic, Antarctic, Mount Everest. Last year, we had sent Loveraj Singh Dharamshaktu to Everest under our project 'Pro Planet Climbs Everest' which made him first Indian to climb Everest for the fourth time". Speaking on the occasion, Vice President Strategy and Planning, Woodland, Amol Dhillon said, "Woodland is proud to host an activity of this stature where we persuade today's youth to absorb adventure and environment early in their lives. The theme of the project is very strong and perfectly aligns with our commitment to inspire outdoor sports among the next generation by reaching out to young explorers across schools." The team of teens has undergone a five-month extensive training in all formats of stamina build-up, fitness as well as adventure sports to equip them to cope up with the hard tenure at Mount Everest. During the training (spanning between September 2012 January 2013), students were trained on various aspects i n c l u d i n g M o u n t a i n e e r in g Training at H i m a l a y a n Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling, muscle build-up and strengthening exercises, weight training as well as 1000 kilometers of cycling on various terrains in Thar Desert. Students will further be trained on cross training, endurance and 10-day high altitude winter-training cum acclimatization trek at Khardungla, Ladakh. After return, the students will undergo training for fat reserve build up along with their academic examination in March; the expedition to kick off on the April five from Delhi via Kathmandu via Lukla - Everest spread over a period of some two months. The heroes of the team include Hakikat Singh Grewal, Guribadat Singh, Prithvi Singh, Ajay Sohal, Shubham and Fateh Singh from S a n a w a r St.Lawrance School.

NEW DELHI: Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal regained the second spot in women's singles rankings while Parupalli Kashyap jumped two places in men's singles to reach a career-best No7 in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) rankings released on Thursday. Saina reclaimed the No.2 ranking by pushing current World Champion Yihan Wang of China to third as she trails World No1 and Olympic champion Li Xuerui by quite a margin. Meanwhile, citymate PV Sindhu retained her

16th position. Kashyap leapt two places after a string of consistent performances, regularly beating top 10 players. Meanwhile, Mumbai's Ajay Jayaram retained 31st while RMV Gurusaidutt, Sourabh Varma and Anand Pawar jumped places to be ranked 36, 39 and 44, respectively, in the men's singles rankings. The Indian shuttlers are currently playing at the $125,000 Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold tournament being held in Basel.

Four Indian boxers assured of bronze at Philippines event

NEW DELHI: Four Indian boxers have made it to the semifinals of the ASBC Asian Youth Boxing Championship in Subic Bay, Philippines and assured themselves of as many bronze medals.Narender Berwal (+91kg) and Lalitha Prasad (49kg) were the latest ones to enter the last four with Amritpreet Singh (91kg) and Abhishek Beniwal (81kg) securing a semi-final berth earlier. Silver medallist at the 2012 Youth World Championships, Berwal made a stunning recovery against Kazakh boxer Dastan Kurmanbetov after being down 1-4 in the opening round. The 17-year-old Prasad, who bagged the light fly weight title at the 2012 Tammer International tournament in Finland, gave a splendid account of his boxing skills against Jun Engkang of Indonesia.

Tajikistan, Myanmar, Philippines and Palestine. Afghanistan's rose the highest in the ranking table they have climbed 48 places to 141st. Sudan had the biggest fall dropping 23 places to 127th. Meanwhile, Spain continuing to lead at the top over Germany and Argentina. There were no changes in the top ten.

SUNRISE
ISO CO. SINCE 2007

69, B.C. Road, 2nd Floor above PNB Bank Rehari Chungi, Jammu

2565032, 9419100331, 9419361336, www.sunrisebhart.com

OUR DECK CADETS SELECTED IN V.SHIPS, AET, MSC, WILHELMSEN, SCI(GIRLS CAN ALSO APPLY)

LIC OPEN NEW OFFICE

GOOD NEWS
vc vki viuh LIC dh fd'r vius utnhd dj.k ekdsZV esa lqCkg 10 cts ls 'kke ds 6 cts rd tek djok ldrs gSA blds vykok vxj vkidks ikWfylh ij yksu pkfg,] ikWfylh dh ekWpksfjVh gS] ikWfylh Revive djkuh gS] Address Change djuk gS] Nominee Change djuk gS] ubZ ikWfylh [kjhnuh gS ;k fQj LIC dk Advisor cuuk gS rks ;g lkjh lqfo/kk, vkidks ;gk ij miyC/k gksxhA

Shop No. D-238, First Floor, Karan Market, Jammu Ph:- +91-9419797242, +91-9018192949
CHIEF-EDITOR, PUBLISHER, OWNER: Rohit Singh Rana, C.E.O.:Pawan Rathore, DY. CHIEF EDITOR : Vikram Singh Shan, Administrative Head Jammu: Vikram Singh Bhandari, Bureau Chief Kashmir: Allayee Faizan, LEGAL ADVISOR: Advocate Ashok Parihar PRINTED AT JK PRINTING & PUBLICATIONS, SUJWAN, JAMMU TAWI. For Contributing articles mail us at callme.ranasahib@gmail.com, editor.studentage@gmail.com. For Complaints, Querries or Advertisement Contact us: 0191-2580342.. Address: Sector-12, H.No-12 Nanak Nagar, Jammu (All disputes are subjected to the exclusive jursisdiction of Jammu District courts only.)