Page 1_.

qxd

3/19/2013

12:51 PM

Page 1

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

STUdenT aGe
MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013

JKENG/2012/41612 Vol. 2 No: 70

Nation taking precautions to avert militant attacks: Shinde

Liberal secularists shamed Indians in US

Iran launches 2nd domestic made destroyer in Caspian Sea

PAGE 6

IN BRIEF
Mufti Mohammed Sayeed warns of loss of credibility
JAMMU: Cautioning against a "complete collapse" of democratic system in Jammu and Kashmir, PDP patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed on Sunday said "governance in the state has been reduced to containment of anger through repression". Addressing a meet of party workers here, he said: "We have contd on page 2

English-Vinglish brings UPSC under political clutches

NEW DELHI: The government is mulling doing away with compulsory English language examination at mains level in the prestigious civil services test conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The Centre's move to make English language proficiency mandatory for qualifying the examinations had come under attack from its allies and opponents including SP, RJD, Left parties, Akali Dal, National Conference, AIADMK, DMK and BJP, forcing it on Friday to keep a notification in this regard in abeyance. Earlier, the English test paper was only qualifying in nature and its marks were not

Govt mulls new civil services mains exam format

Queen's language and its marks may also not be added for final selection of candidates. A meeting will be called soon with the officials of UPSC, which conducts the civil services exams to choose candidates for Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Forest Service (IFoS) and Indian Foreign Service (IFS) among others, to discuss the road map and take a final decision in this regard, they said. However, keeping the notification in abeyance will not affect civil services preliminary examination scheduled to be held on May 26. The Ministry of Personnel had on March 5 in an official gazette notification made certain changes in the civil services mains examination, by giving more weightage to English and general studies paper. From Civil Services (Mains) exams, 2013, there will be four compulsory general services papers of 250 marks each, in addition to two optional papers of 250 marks each. Earlier, there were two compulsory papers on general studies and two optional papers of 300 marks

PAGE 5

PAGE 7

India keen on larger development projects in Africa

NEW DELHI: After offering more than $5 billion line of credit, India is willing to provide more financial assistance for large development projects in African countries, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma said on Sunday. Addressing the opening session of the 9th India-Africa Project Partnership conclave, Sharma said India was ready to provide more technical and financial contd on page 2

added for selecting the candidate. Sources in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances

and Pensions, which had taken out the notification after consultation with the UPSC, said it was planning

to introduce a new format for the mains exams by removing the compulsory requirement of qualifying in the

each. Total marks for the main exams will be 1,800. The paper on essay and English comprehension will be of 300 marks. A new paper on 'Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude' has also been introduced for CSE-2013. As per the revised pattern, a candidate will not be allowed to write civil services exams in a regional language of his choice unless there are at least 25 such aspirants choosing the particular medium. This and other issues in the notification had prompted Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Tamil Nadu Chief Ministe contd on page 2

BIHAR IS THE KEY TO DELHI: NITISH

BIHAR DESERVES SPECIAL STATUS, NOT BEGGING FOR IT
NEW DELHI: Addressing a massive rally at the Ramlila ground in Delhi on Sunday, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar reiterated his demand for special status for the state and declared that his fight for a special status to the state would continue till the Centre accept it. Buoyed by the cheering crowd which numbered over 50,000, Nitish Kumar delivered an impassioned speech and in a wellcrafted move also exhorted other backward states to demand special status. He signalled that no political combination should think of ruling Delhi after the 2014 elections if it ignored Bihar's rights. "Give Bihar special status now, else after 2014 you will have to give it for sure. Only

Hints options of Joining UPA

"Today is the day to thank P Chidambaram," said an overwhelmed Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar. The reason for gratitude: in his budget speech, the finance minister had proposed evolving new criteria for determining the backward classes of the states and awarding them the special status." "The proposal is a victory, in principle, for Bihar's campaign for special category status," said Kumar. He also thanked Chidambaram for proposing a rethink on the criteria used for devolution of funds to states. While Kumar ruled out any "political contd on page 2

No Changes In SOPs in Kashmir : CRPF DG

NEW DELHI: The CRPF will follow its existing standard operating procedures while rendering operational duties in the Kashmir Valley, the top boss of the paramilitary has said. CRPF Director General Pranay Sahay, who returned to the capital after visiting his formation in Srinagar in the aftermath of the fidayeen (suicide) attack in which five paramilitary men were killed, said it has been ordered that the one-third component of armed men will secure those in the riot-gear during their operational duties in the Valley. "The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been there since long. This incident (fidayeen attack on the CRPF camp in Srinagar's

If Not Empowered 33000 Panchayat Members Will Go On Hunger Strike from March 24th
JAMMU: Panchayat members in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday threatened to go on a hunger strike from March 24 if a bill seeking more powers for them was not presented in the state Assembly within a week. "We urge the government to bring in a Bill within seven days to implement all the provisions of the 73rd Amendment Act, else we will go on a 72-hour hunger strike from March 24," Anil Sharma, contd on page 2

those will be allowed to rule Delhi who take care of the backward areas," Mr Kumar told an energetic crowd. Lok Sabha elections are due only

next year, but the Janata Dal (United) or JD(U) leader's statement appears to be sensitive to the political scenario that may emerge after the

2014 polls. The JD(U) is a key member of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance, but is averse to contd on page 2

Bemina area) has come after three years. We have asked the boys who are armed to effectively secure those who are not and follow this procedure diligently," Sahay told a news agency. Sahay, who flew down to the Jammu and Kashmir capital within hours of the incident, met his commanders and contd on page 2

DMK chief M Karunanidhi Declare Pak a terrorist China new president says will threatens to pull out of UPA state: Panun Kashmir fight for "great renaissance"
CHENNAI: After threatening to withdraw his ministers from the Centre, DMK chief M Karunanidhi today went a step further warning that his party will pull out altogether from the ruling alliance if it failed to move amendments to the US-sponsored resolution on the Sri Lankan Tamil issue at the UNHRC. The DMK, a key ally of UPA with 18 Lok Sabhamembers, insists that India pushes for amendments to the resolution against Sri Lanka to incorporate its demand for an international probe and time-bound action against JAMMU: Panun Kashmir, an apex body of the Kashmiri Pandits, on Sunday said that India should take steps to declare Pakistan a terrorist state and insisted all the confidence building measures (CBM) with the neighbouring country should be stopped immediately. "When the state of Pakistan has gone resolutely to the extent of open support to extremism and terrorism in India, India needs to take all necessary steps to declare Pakistan a terrorist state and the government of Pakistan a rouge government," President of Panun Kashmir Ashwani Kumar Chrungoo, said while hinting at the resolution passed by the National Assembly contd on page 2 BEIJING: China's newlyinstalled president Xi Jinping said on Sunday he would fight for a "great renaissance to achieve the "Chinese dream" by making the country militarily and economically strong without seeking "hegemony". Xi Jinping, 59, who took over as President and Military Chief after succeeding Hu Jintao as the new

those found guilty of war crimes in Sri Lanka. The resolution contd on page 2

leader of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC). In his first speech as head of state, Xi called for

"the continued realization of the great renaissance of the Chinese nation and the Chinese dream", laying out a vision of a stronger military and ever-higher living standards. Xi's speeches since he took the top post in China's ruling communist party in November. President Xi said China's military should improve its ability to "win battles contd on page 2

Upgradation Of The Infrastructure facilities must for Better education and Employment Generation.!
JAMMU, MARCH 14Minister of State for Technical Education, Vikar Rasool today said that the Government is committed to upgrade the infrastructural facilities and other allied things in different ITIs in the State. The Minister is speaking during a function organised by Delegates Convention of all Jammu and Kashmir ITIs Employees United Forum. Vikar said that by upgrading the infrastructure capabilities contd on page 2

Chopper deal: CBI issues look-out notices for Tyagi, others

NEW DELHI:CBI has issued look-out notices for former IAF Chief SP Tyagi, his three cousins and five other Indians who have been named in its FIR in the alleged kickbacks received by them in Rs. 3600 crore VVIP chopper deal. CBI sources said a lookout notice has been issued to prevent them from leaving the country from any airport. They said it is a routine practice followed by the agency in cases where it fears that the accused can leave the country to escape prosecution. Air Chief Marshal (retd) were among 13 individuals named in the FIR as accused, CBI sources said. The CBI alleged that during his tenure as Air Chief, the Air Force agreed "to reduce the service ceiling for VVIP helicopters from 6000 meters to 4500 meters as mandatory to which it was opposing vehemently on the grounds of security constraints and other related reasons," an agency source said. It alleged that reduction of service ceiling -- maximum height at which a helicopter can perform normally -allowed UK-based Agusta contd on page 2

Have our tears dried?

hen Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru heard Lata Mangeshkar singing Aye Mere Watan Ke Logo Jara Aankhmein Bhar lo Paani, Nehru wept and when the song ended he turned to Lata and said- Beti Aaj TuneMuje rula Diya. Nehru understood that he had erred on China and the sacrifice of Indian soldiers turned his eyes moist. That was full sixty two years ago but now things seemed to have changed for the worse. Just five days ago when innocent and unarmed CRPF Jawans in Srinagar fell to the bullets of Fidayeen their bodies laid stiff on the ground. And when their bodies were transported to Srinagar airport nobody from the State Government was there to pay the

S.P. Tyagi this Wednesday became the first Air Chief to be booked by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), along with 12 others, for alleged cheating, corruption and criminal conspiracy in the deal and searches were

carried out at 14 locations including his residence. The former Air Chief, his cousins -- Sanjeev alias Julie, Rajeev alias Docsa and Sandeep, European middlemen Carlo Gerosa, Christian Michel and Guido Haschke

martyrs their respects. It was a knee jerk measure that forced the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to rush to the airport and retrieve the situation, the damage was already done. But the impression that nobody cares for the lives of Jawans is not without reason, especially when only dubious and opportunistic political calculations are counted in the State. It becomes obvious that our tears for the lives of our Jawans who are our saviours have virtually dried. The common man is bewildered and he has questions to ask. Have we lost all sensitivity for the security forces killed by terrorists? Do not these young heroes of the nation have human rights? Please answer, the rulers of this State. Ranasahib

Page 2_Defence_Bali.qxd

3/19/2013

12:51 PM

Page 1

STUDENT AGE MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013

DEFENCE/CONTD
Tarigami would raise their voice in supportof the Panchayats, "but they were instead engaged in vague discussions." "We expected that our senior MLAs will raise their voice in support of Panchayats and will force the government to implement the 73rd Amendment Act, but they are instead discussing something else," Sharma said. Stressing on the need for greater security for Panchayat members, Sharma said the government was spending crores of rupees on providing protection to VIPs, but ignoring those who needed it the most. "They are spending Rs 100 crore on security for VIPs but those who need it the most have been ignored. They have not taken any step in the direction of providing security to Panches and Sarpanches," he alleged. the most powerful leader in the recent decades as the country's military major strides with hefty defence budgets, which this year reached USD 115.7 billion. Addressing his first press conference, Premier Li Keqiang, 57, however played down concerns over China's rise saying that China has no ambition to seek hegemony even though the country has "unshakable commitment" to safeguard its sovereignty. "Even if China becomes stronger we will not seek hegemony because we have learnt from our own bitter experience in the modern period that one should not impose on others he himself does not desire. It is an article of faith for us," Li said. "Let me underscore here China has an unwavering commitment to peaceful development. We also have unshakable commitment to safeguard our country's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said, without directly referring to China's deepening disputes with Japan over islands and differences with various South East Asian countries on the South China Sea. Li argued that China's wish to assert its sovereignty and peaceful rise are not contradictory. "We are willing to work with the countries of the world to maintain global peace and prosperity in the 21st century," he said. He also allayed concerns about the slow growth of China's economy as well as apprehensions about China's rise as global power. There are 1.3 billion people in this country, so we are on a long journey to modernisation. For that we would require an international environment of lasting peace," Li, who succeeded Wen Jiabao said. China has slowed down considerably in the last three years contracting from over 11 per cent GDP to 7.8 last year. The government has fixed 7.5 per cent as target this year.

2
tinue to strive for mobilization of public opinion so that the state could revert to the path of peace, dignity and development that had been charted after 2002 elections. He said the political parties will have to remain accountable to the people who vote them into power and that alone could ensure public welfare. convened press meet here, the 88-year-old leader said irrespective of the US accepting India's amendments or not, New Delhi should move them at the UN human rights body in Geneva. The US-sponsored motion puts Sri Lanka on the mat over alleged war crimes and human rights violations against Tamil civilians during the last phase of the war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The UN body had adopted a similar US-backed resolution last year with the support of India which asked Colombo to make rapid progress on reconciliation with the ethnic Tamils. To a question, Karunanidhi said none from the Centre had contacted him after he had warned of his party quitting the government. DMK, an ally of UPA since 2004, has one cabinet minister and four junior ministers in the Manmohan Singh ministry. Seeking to reach out to the DMK, Finance Minister P Chidambaram said India should support the US resolution against Lanka if it called for an independent and reliable probe into the alleged war crimes in the island nation in 2009.

Contd. from page 1...

English-Vinglish brings...
J Jayalalithaa and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to raise the matter with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for its removal. The applications for the main examination are scheduled to be called during August and September this year. one-third of national per capita income and have the lowest per capita income. Roads, railways, and other infrastructure are below average. The per capita expenditure for development is half of national average ... all human development indices are lower." "If we get special status, we can also become one of the developed states. We have been told that we do not meet all qualifications for getting special status. Change the criteria then," he said. The JD(U) leader had reached Delhi yesterday to address the Adhikar rally.

Mufti Mohammed ...

a government that is isolated from the people and has lost its political character and moral authority to govern." A large part of anger among people has been caused by the inability of government to respond to their aspirations, channelise them and secure for them a place of dignity and honour within the union," the Peoples Democratic Party leader said. Mufti said, because of "its numerical combination in the legislature the government might stay in existence but it is left with hardly any political influence or a claim to credibility and a virtual anarchy has taken over the state". He meant that the ruling combine of National Conference and the Congress that accounts for 45 out of 87 members in the legislative assembly may not face numerical threat from the PDP which has only 21 members. "The assembly has been turned into a mock house with government instead of getting worried by opposition boycott feeling relieved at what it considers as a good riddance," he said, while maintaining that this attitude could have disastrous implications for the state. Mufti said the house had been prevented from undertaking any meaningful discussion that could have helped in finding a way to respond to people's concerns. "We did not want to be part of a process of demolition of democratic institutions in the revival of which we had contributed substantially in the past years. He said an extraordinary situation has arisen in the state in the wake of Afzal Guru's thoughtless hanging which most people view as avoidable, but neither the government nor the legislature have been able to respond to it adequately. Government, he said, is unable to think beyond curfew, guns, chilli bombs and large scale arrests as the only options and is closing the doors of a democratic engagement. On the other hand it wants to run the legislature without even a reference to the reign of terror and repression it has let loose on people he said and added "we did not want to be part of that charade". "We would rather go to people to galvanise their opinion in favour of a popular, democratic and peaceful revolution that could guarantee their constitutional rights, liberties and development opportunities" he added. Mufti said the state was passing through very turbulent times and it would have needed a very wise and mature leadership first to avoid this plight and now to take the people out of this dangerously poised situation. He said it would push people further away from democratic system which had gained some respectability as a result of the rise of a strong opposition. Mufti said the state was passing through very turbulent times and it would have needed a very wise and mature leadership first to avoid this plight and now to take the people out of this dangerously poised situation. He said that with a government that is focused on mere survival, personal luxuries of rulers and a free for all corruption there appears no immediate way out but PDP would con-

Manto's Hattak marks the start of Drama fest

JAMMU, MARCH 17: Hattak, a Hindustani play based on the story of the Sadat Hassan Manto was staged by Pancham, a renowned theatre group of the city. The play was the first presentation of the Annual Drama Festival, 2013 organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art Culture and Languages, which started. Hattak is a story of a call girl named Sugandhi, who was deceived in each and every point of life. In the journey of life she was used and thrown away many times by the society, without caring for her emotions. Everyone who met her in life uses her for petty interests and the process goes on. Every time she compromises with the situations and surrender herself to the circumstances. But in the end, the female in her refuses to compromise with the situations anymore and the anger, frustration buried in her comes out like a volcano. Her anger erupted in such a manner that she finds a dog more safe, faithful and honest than the males of the society. The play is very much apt in the present day scenario, where the female folk are discriminated and harassed in the society. It gives a lesson us that females are also living beings and posses equal rights like their counterparts in the society.

India keen on....

support for development of big projects in the African region. He said the Indian government has launched the "project credit" programme aimed at helping the smaller countries develop large projects. "I request you to take advantage of the project credit programme," Sharma said while addressing the large gathering of African policymakers and entrepreneurs. More than 900 delegates from 45 African countries are participating in the threeday conclave organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in association with Exim Bank of India. Sharma said the new financial assistance would be in addition to the $5 billion line of credit offered by the Indian government. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had announced $5 billion line of credit for the development of the African region during the 2nd Africa India Forum Summit in Addis Ababa in 2011. India has also offered $700 million for building pan-Africa educational and technical institutions. Sharma said India would help build 70 educational and technical institutions for development of human resource in Africa. The minister admitted that there had been some delays in the development of certain institutions, including the proposed Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) in Uganda. "I know there have been delays, but it will be done," he said. On trade and investment, Sharma, who also holds textiles portfolio, said there was huge scope for further strengthening the trade and investment relations. He said Indian firms have invested nearly $45 billion in Africa in the last one decade. India-Africa bilateral trade is around $70 billion. "If you ask me if I am happy with these figures, my answer is no," said Sharma, emphasizing the need for further boosting the flow of trade and investments. Trade between India and Africa is estimated to rise to $90 billion by 2015.

BIHAR IS THE...
Narendra Modi, whom many in the BJP have been pitching as the coalition's ideal prime ministerial candidate. He hinted that he would not hesitate to support the party which helped him achieve special status for Bihar. Even though there was a minor commotion just before Nitish Kumar started his 25-minute speech when a man waved black flag, shouted slogans against him before he was overpowered and beaten up by the JD(U) workers, the Bihar Chief Minister did not deviate from his main plank. Pointing out that when Bihar was divided and Jharkhand carved out of the state in 2000 the then BJP-led National Democratic Alliance government had assured help to make Bihar a developed state but it was never done. Lauding the contributions of the people of Bihar in the development of the country and their participation in the freedom struggle, Nitish said, "We are not begging for special status. It is our right." He asked, "Don't we have the right to progress?" Saying that Bihar is not against other states being given special status, Nitish stressed that with a little help from the Centre, Bihar can too become a developed state. The Bihar CM blamed the lack of industries and unfavourable economic policies as being the main factor for the migration of Biharis to other states. Pointing out that the Bihar has not been treated fairly, Nitish said, "Today's rally has shown the strength of Biharis who have turned out in huge numbers to demand their right," Nitish said. Highlighting the fact that Biharis in the national capital were living in a poor state, he said that people of his state used to face humiliation earlier but now the situation had changed completely. "The reason for the change in perception is because Bihar is now on the path of progress," Nitish emphasised. Nitish launched a clear counter to Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's development plank saying, "We will leave everyone behind and move ahead with development. And we will present a model before the world. These days development model is being discussed. This model is what takes along everyone together. This is the real development model of India." "The powerful people of Delhi must take notice of the growing strength of Biharis," he added. He also said, "When you become a good Bihari than you can become a good Indian." Adding, "If policies change, the benefit will not accrue only to Bihar but other backward states as well." Talking about the state of Bihar, Nitish said, "If you see the per capita income, we are just a little more than

Hints options ....

meaning" in his lavish praise for Chidambaram, he continues to be a potential ally in the Congress's internal assessment for the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. On its part, while the Congress remains fiercely critical of the BJP, it has never attacked Kumar's leadership in Bihar. In fact, over the past one year, the UPA government has given major social sector sops to the state. BIHAR model is the real model of development In a clear counter to Narendra Modi's development plank, Bihar chief ministerNitish Kumar today said his state would present the "real model" for progress which takes everyone along.

Declare Pak a....

of Pakistan on execution of Afzal Guru. "The international opinion in this regard needs to be taken into confidence and the so-called CBM with Pakistan require to stopped forthwith. "Pakistan's blatant resolution on the Guru is tantamount to an open admittance of its abatement to terrorism and terror attack on the Indian Parliament," Chrungoo said during a function here. He added that while the response of the Indian Parliament was a welcome step, it felt short of meeting the aspirations of people. Meanwhile, BJP state president and MLA Jugal Kishore Sharma, who was also present on the occasion, hailed the Kashmiri Pandit community as the torch bearer in the religious-cultural field and said that they had to face the worst times because of the follies of the government. "BJP shares common nationalist ideals with the community and we will continue our support to the just demands of the Pandits," he said. The BJP leader said that his party rejects Pakistan's interference in country's internal matters and added that they should vacate the areas of the state occupied by it in 1947.

No Changes In ....
personnel and assured them of all support from the force headquarters. The SOPs mandate that one-third component of the force, when out on security and law and order duties, will have arms and secure the rest of the squad armed with batons and riot-gear. The DG said the SOPs were also discussed during his unified command meet with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and there was no requirement to change them. "It is essential that the personnel in riot-gear and without weapons are not left out of sight. This is a part of training and our men have displayed it amply as you see that the number of civilian casualties have been very less during protests in Kashmir in the last few years," Sahay said. The force has also ordered a Court of Inquiry (CoI) into the last week attack when two Pakistani terrorists, disguised as cricketers, stormed into the CRPF camp in Srinagar city, the first suicide attack in the city in three years. The two militants were killed by the CRPF personnel in the ensuing gun battle.

Workshop on "Children With Special Needs"

JAMMU, MARCH 17:Under SSA 24 more resource centers for children with Special needs [CWSN] are being set-up in the upper primary schools of the State this year, raising the total no. of CWSN to 72, with prime objective to bring 3485 Disabled Children under main schooling. These schools, are equipped with requisite aids and appliances to promote enrollment and retention in schools of "children with special needs suffering from variables of disability. This was stated by the Advisor, State SSA Mission, Mohammad Rafi after inaugurating a fiveday Workshop on "Challenges in Inclusive Education of Children with Special Needs" at the Ranbir Higher Secondary School. 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. While describing the non-availability of Braille text books (in Urdu) as a "major impediment" the Advisor assured that experts from Bhopal were being involved in helping the state Resource Group to get over this issue.

Impulse Group
NEW JOBS
For Unemployed Youth (Boys/Girls) in Jammu & Outside

Upto 15000 Qualification: 10th/12th/Graduates & above Interview:

Income:

2 Days (10:30 AM to 4:30 PM)

Contact with Resume
359/A, Ist Floor Gandhi Nagar, Gole Market Jammu Opp. Pir Baba lane
Note: 8th Pass Only 5 vacancies

Chopper deal: CBI ....

Westland to come into the fray as, otherwise, its helicopters were not even qualified for submission of bids. Two new names, which were not part of the agency's preliminary inquiry, have also been included in the FIR. They include Satish Bagrodia, brother of former Union Minister Santosh Bagrodia, and Pratap Aggarwal, chairman and managing director of IDS Infotech respectively, it said.

M.9906130466

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.

China new ....

and... Protect national sovereignty and security". He has close ties to China's expanding military and called for the armed forces to strengthen their ability to "win battles", as it is embroiled in a bitter territorial row with Japan over islands in the East China Sea and disputes with neighboring nations over claims to the South China Sea. The speech also touched on corruption, which he has called a threat to the Communist Party's grip on power, and Xi urged delegates to "oppose hedonism, and flamboyant lifestyles, and firmly fight against negative and corrupt phenomena". He also stressed that continued economic development was essential, urging the nation to achieve what he called "China's dream". He said 1.3 billion Chinese people should bear in mind the mission, unite as one, and gather into invincible force with the wisdom and power. Holding all the three posts, Xi, who kicked off 10 year tenure, has emerged as

Upgradation Of The Infrastructure....

and introducing different streams in ITIs, the Government, would be launching the much needed vocational courses. He said that these activities would surely generate self employment avenues for youth of the State. He said that several courses would be introduced and the work is going on in different ITIs across the State. While assuring the organizer for redressing their problems at an earliest the Minister assured them that he would take up the issues with the concerned so that they are solved with in the shortest possible time. The Forum projected several demands including filling up of vacant posts, development of skills and procurement of new equipment and creation of posts in the ITIs.

If Not Empowered 33000...

General Secretary of the All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC), told reporters here. AJKPC is an apex body of about 33,000 Panchayat members. "We are not satisfied with the raise in the honorarium for Panches and Sarpanches (although) we believe it is a step in the right direction. Our main objective is empowerment of Panchayats and security for Panches and Sarpanches," Sharma said. Sharma said that AJKPC had been hoping that senior legislators like Harshdev Singh of Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party and CPI(M)'s MY

DMK chief M Karunanidhi....

will come up for voting at the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) in Geneva on March 21. Close on the heels of his Friday's warning of pulling out DMK ministers from the Government, Karunanidhi shot off letters to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, saying he feels "let down" by the "lukewarm" response of the government. "If our demands are not met, it is doubtful whether our ties with the alliance (UPA) will continue...It won't continue is sure," Karunanidhi told reporters here. Addressing a hurriedly

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 gSA a
Qual: 10/12/Grad./P.G. Income: Rs.8,000 to Rs.15,000 pm Contact:

Omega International

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

Page 3,4 State.qxd

3/19/2013

12:52 PM

Page 1

STUDENT AGE MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013

STATE

Schools open on Sunday in Kashmir to make up for lost classes

SRINAGAR:In an attempt to compensate the loss of academic session due to strikes and curfew, some private schools in Kashmir have decided to keep their institutions open on Sundays. A large number of students could be seen at bus stops in many parts of the city early this morning despite Sunday being the designated weekly off for the schools. Among the leading schools which opened today for classes were the several branches of Delhi Public School in Srinagar, Budgam, Baramulla and Anantnag districts of the valley. The move comes in response to frequent strikes called by the separatists and curfew imposed by the government in the past two weeks. While authorities have imposed curfew on nine days in March due to various reasons, separatists, who are demanding return of mortal remains of Parliament attack convict Mohammad Afzal Guru, have called for strike on three days during the same period. While parents of the students are satisfied with the decision taken by the schools, they called on the government as well as the separatists to ensure that education institutes are not affected by the stir. "Education should be conflict neutral. Both the sides should think of a way out to enable the learning process to continue," Mohammad Yousuf, whose daughter was one of the students attending school today, said. Mansoor Ahmad, another parent, said the students of Kashmir had suffered during the 2010 summer agitation and it should not be repeated this year.

NEWS IN BOX

Mir awards progressive farmers for excellent performance

SRINAGAR, MARCH 17: Urging farmers to produce more crops out of decreasing means of land, the Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Hassan Mir said that farmers should keep liaison with Agriculture experts for adoption of latest technologies. The Minister was addressing Divisional Level Exhibition/Kissan MelaCum-Farmers award ceremony at SKICC today. The ceremony was organized by Department of Agriculture, Kashmir Division under Agriculture Technology Management. The Minister of State for Agriculture and Horticulture, Nazir Ahmad Gurezi was also present on the occasion, whileas Vice Chancellor SKUAST, Kashmir, Dr. Tej Pratap and Director of vari-

Asks them to produce more crops out of less available land

agriculture wholeheartedly as a profession. He said Agriculture is not less income generative than any other sectors. However, self confidence is imperative for attaining self sufficiency. The Minister asked Agriculture experts to ensure transformation of technology from lab to land. He said the department of Agriculture is establishing cold storage at each block. He said 1500 demonstration plots shall be established during ensuing agriculture season in Valley. On the occasion, the Agriculture Minister distributed cheques worth Rs. 17 lakh among 114 progressive farmers as award for their excellent performance they have shown in producing more crops. Earlier, the Minister expressed his satisfaction over the work done by Director Agriculture, Kashmir, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone during his tenure. The Minister of State for Agriculture and Horticulture, Nazir Ahmad Gurezi urged the farmers to adopt the latest developmental schemes in agriculture sector, adding farmers should work hard with zeal to produce more crops. He also called for maintaining liaison with Agriculture experts. Vice Chancellor SKUAST Kashmir, Dr. Tej Pratap and Director Agriculture Kashmir, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone also spoke on the occasion.

Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Hassan Mir distributing cheques during Exhibition/Kissan MelaCum-Farmers award ceremony at SKICC . ous disciplines of Agriculture and allied sectors were also present, besides good number of progressive farmers. Mir said that Agriculture department has introduced various innovative schemes to boost the agriculture during last 4 years. He said that however, need of the hour is that farmers especially youth in rural areas should adopt the

Body recovered from river in J&K

SRINAGAR: The body of a man, who had gone missing for the past two days, was recovered from a river in south Kashmir's Anantnag district, police said on Saturday. The body of Lahanu Chowdary(45), a resident of Dahang area in Nepal, was recovered from the river Lidder in Pahalgam yesterday, they said. Chowdary was working at a sweets shop in Pahalgam and was reportedly missing since March 14. Further probes are on, police added.

Valedictory function of Floriculture Show at IIIM Farm Chatta

Jora for adopting floriculture for boosting economy
JAMMU, MARCH 17Minister for Urban Development and Urban Local Bodies, Nawang Rigzin Jora today asked the people of State to venture into fast growing sectors like Floriculture, besides traditional Agriculture, horticulture and other allied sectors. The Minister was addressing at a valedictory function held in connection with Floriculture Show cum Kissan Mela at IIIM Farm Chatha organized by CSIRIndian Institute of Integrative Medicine, show at Canal road Jammu in collaboration with Floriculture Department Jammu. Deeply inspired by the show in which varieties of medicinal plants and flowers were displayed for exhibition, the Minister asked the Directors IIIM to set up similar branch at Leh so that the people of that region not only get acquainted about these varieties but also can generate income by growing these plants in their farms. He said that 70% population of the State is living in the rural areas and asked them to adopt this sector in view of emerged as a high tech activities taking place under different climatic condition including green houses. Jora said J&K State is ideally suited for the development of flowers, bulbs and the seeds throughout the year. He said earlier the floriculture activities were restricted only to maintenance and development of parks and gardens but now this sector has assumed greater significance as it has not only huge employment potential but surely has greater impact to increase the income levels of various tourism related sections of society. The Minister said that various kinds of flowers including cut flowers have a great demand in the world. On the occasion the President IIIM, Dr. Ram Vishawa Karma highlighted the aim of organizing the show said that the floriculture sector has a great potential of generating employment. He said India is at par with China in exporting mint to world markets. Later, the Minister distributed prizes among the winners of flower show in different category.

Separatists call for shutdown in Valley next week

SRINAGAR: Several separatist groups on Sunday gave a call for a shutdown in Kashmir Valley on March 23 in support of their demand for handing over mortal remains of Mohammad Azal Guru and Maqbool Bhat to their families. "A complete strike will be observed on Saturday to demand the return of mortal remains of Guru and Bhat and to protest the house arrest of leaders like Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq," Majlis Mashawarat, an amalgamation of several separatist groups, said. Geelani is the chairman of the hardline Hurriyat Conference while Farooq is the head of the moderate faction. In a statement here, the Majlis asked college students to stage protests on Tuesday at their respective institutions. It said civil society and human right activists would stage a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Wednesday in support of the demand for handing over mortal remains of Guru and Bhat to their families. The Majlis asked the people in the Valley to observe a complete black out on Thursday evening. Lights should be switched off in homes, business establishments and mosques on that day, it added. Both factions of the Hurriyat Conference, JKLF, Kashmir Bar Association and Dukhtaran-e-Millat are constituents of the Majlis which was formed in the wake of Parliament attack convict Guru's execution inside Tihar Jail on February 9. Bhat was hanged and buried inside Tihar Jail on February 11, 1984 after he was convicted for murdering a police officer.

Govt constitutes committee for deletion of obsolete laws in the state

JAMMU, MARCH 16- Government has accorded sanction to the constitution of a Committee for reviewing and updation of existing laws and deletion of obsolete Laws in the state. The Committee shall comprise of Advocate General, M. I. Qadri, Secretary Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Department, G. H. Tantray, Special Secretary Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mtr. Farhat Tasneem, Additional Secretary, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Muzaffer Ahmad Wani, Additional Secretary, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Department, Achal Sethi, (Member Secretary) and two eminent lawyers to be co-opted by the Committee.

Kashmir can't be eternally governed by black laws: Bhushan Bazaz

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Forum (JKDF) has said the continued use of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is against the letter and spirit of the Constitution and amounted to denial of fundamental rights to people. Reiterating has party's stand on the revocation of the special law, Bazaz today said in New Delhi, "The very claim of our country to a democratic system suffers a blow when the people of the entire state are denied fundamental rights on the pretext of security. He said Jammu and Kashmir cannot be eternally governed by black laws if the region has to come out of its painful history of discord and destabilisation. Bazaz said the level of disaffection among the people of the state had risen during the last four years.

Minister for Urban Development and Urban Local Bodies, Nawang Rigzin Jora presenting trophy during Floriculture Show cum Kissan Mela at IIIM Farm Chatha. for sales or for use as raw available irrigation facilities. Jora said that there is a material in cosmetic and pertremendous scope of floricul- fume industry and the pharture sector in the State as it maceutical sector. He said has different eco climatic presently floral industry is a zones and there is cent per- dynamic, fast growing induscent possibility that this sec- try which achieved signifitor particularly medicinal and cant growth during the past a aromatic plants can flourish. couple of decades and has He said that a litre of rose oil extended worldwide with the costs Rs. 5 lakh and it has a major paradigm shift of progreat demand in duction centre from develPharmaceutical sector. He oped to developing nations. said flower farming is a disci- He said floriculture has pline of horticulture and become one of the most includes cultivation of flow- important activity, hence ering and ornamental plants commercial floriculture has

Lone directs DDC Bandipore to ensure basic facilities during Nowroz

JAMMU, MARCH 17: The Minister for Higher Education Mohammad Akbar Lone has directed the District Development Commissioner, Bandipora to ensure essential commodities, uninterrupted power supply and potable drinking water in the Tehsil Sumbal especially in Shia dominated areas during the Nawroz. He also directed for ensuring cleanliness of lanes, drains and link roads leading to Imam Baras so that the people will not face any difficulties during these auspicious days. Accordingly directions were issued for coordinated efforts among the officers of various departments to extend all possible facilities to the people of the district. In view of the Nawroz celebrations, the Minister asked the local authorities to remain vigilant and show their responsible attitude towards solving people's problems or otherwise face disciplinary action under rules.

Warm send off to retired LC members

JAMMU, MARCH 17: A warm send off, hosted in honour of the retired members of Legislative Council, who completed their tenure in House on this March 14, was accorded at a function organized here at Karan Mahal today. Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, Chairman, Legislative Council, Amrit Malhotra, Minister for CA&PD, Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan, Minister for Planning, Labour and Employment, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, Minister for Higher Education, Mohammad Akbar Lone, retired members which included R.S.Chib, Murtaza Ahmad Khan, Nizam-udKhatana and Haji Ali Mohammad Bhat besides the members of Legislative Council were present on the occasion.

Rs. 4 crore spent on Degree College Khansahib

BUDGAM, MARCH 17: About RS. 4 crore have been spent on the construction of Govt. Degree College at Khansahib, Budgam by the J&K Projects Construction Corporation ,[JKPCC] which is the construction agency. This was told to District Development Commissioner Budgam, Khurshid Ahmad Shah during his one day extention tour to the kandi areas of district Budgam including Khansahib. He asked the engineers to speed-up construction work so that the College Complex is Completed at an earliest for the convenience of the students community. DDC also took stock of the pace of work on under construction Subdistrict Hospital Krimshara and said that Rs.1 crore has been spent on it so far. While inspecting S.D Hospital at Krimshara, the D.C took stock of the availability of medicare facility to the patients. He asked the doctors and paramedical staff to work with missionary zeal to provide better service to the patients.

Bhalla, Rana pay rich tributes to Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan

JAMMU, MARCH 17Paying rich tributes to Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan on his 123rd Birth Day Anniversary, the Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture Raman Bhalla today said that contribution of Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan in uniting Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh and his philanthropic service to the society would always remain alive. This was stated by the Minister while addressing a large gathering of Mahajan Biradri at a Mahajan Parivar Milan function held at Mahajan Sabha at Gandhi Nagar, here today. Member Legislative Council, Devinder Singh Rana, Chief Patron Mahajan Sabha Jugal Mahajan, ExMayor Kavinder Gupta, Chairman Citizen CoOperative Bank Denesh Gupta, Chairman Mahajan Sabha Bal Krishen Gupta

Speaker pays obeisance at Shahdra Sharief, prays for progress, prosperity of State
JAMMU, MARCH 17: The Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Mubarak Gul today visited Rajouri and paid obeisance at Shahdra Sharief. He prayed for peace, progress, prosperity and welfare of the people of the State. Later, the Speaker accompanied by a team of officers of district administration including District Development Commissioner, Rajouri and inspected various development works under execution in the district..During his visit, several delegations met the Speaker and projected their problems before the Speaker which included repairs and renovation of lanes, drains, upgradation of link roads, construction of roads, replacement of damaged poles and transformers, supply of potable drinking water and upgradation of bus stand at Shadra Sharief.Gul gave them a patient hearing and assured them that their genuine demands would be taken up with the concerned for early redressal. He directed the District Development Commissioner to ensure essential commodities, uninterrupted power supply and potable drinking water in the district. He asked the management of the Shrine to ensure cleanliness in and around the shrine. The Speaker also called for coordinated efforts among the officers of various departments to extend all possible facilities to the people of the district.

'Mahajan Sabha celebrates 123rd birth anniversary of Justice Mahajan'

Chand Mahajan played crucial role in advising Maharaja for taking decision regarding accession of J&K State with India and appealed to follow the path shown by him. He called upon the people to adopt the pathway shown by the great personality who always lived truthful life, worked hard and lend helping hand to the poor, needy and strengthened values of brotherhood for the upliftment of the society. Remembering Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan, Member Legislative Council, Davinder Singh Rana apprised the gathering about the contribution of Justice Mahajan and appreciated the role of Justice Mahajan on the time of accession of J&K. He said that Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan is an intellectual and par excellence person. Rana appreciated the efforts put in by the Mahajan Sabha Gandhi Nagar, Trikuta Nagar and Channi Himmat for organizing such a grand Mahajan Parivar Milan function. He remarked that such functions play a pivotal role for the betterment of the society. Earlier, the function started with the recitation of Gaytri Mantra, it was followed by shardhanjilies to Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan, lighting Jyoti by the Bhalla and Rana. On the occasion, the Minister and MLC garlanded the portrait of Justice Mahajan. A colourful cultural programme was also organized by the Mahajan Sabha where a renowned Dogri Singer, Jeevan Sharma presented Dogri songs.

Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture Raman Bhalla along with others during 123rd Birth Day Anniversary of Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan at Jammu. besides other prominent personalities of the Mahajan Biradri like K B Jandial, Vinod Mahajan, Dina Nath Mahajan, T R Gupta, K K Gupta, P C Gupta and Nariender Gupta were also present on the occasion. Bhalla said Justice Mehar

Page 3,4 State.qxd

3/19/2013

12:52 PM

Page 2

STUDENT AGE MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013

STATE

Sadhotra emphasizes for contribution to build the Kissan Mela, flower future of Nation by adopting the path of ideal souls show held at Chatha
JAMMU, MARCH 17:Highlighting the great contribution of Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan, on his 123rd birth anniversary, who was 1st Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir State in September 1947. Minister for Planning and Development, Labor and Employment, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today said as member of Redcliff Commission Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan provided an important connectivity to the country through Gurdaspur. Mahajan Sabah Gandhi Nagar in collaboration with Mahajan Sabah Trikuta Nagar and Channi Himmat Celebrated 123rd Birth anniversary of Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan. The minister was Chief Guest on the occasion. On the occasion the Minister appreciated the role of Mahajan Sabah for organthe great souls which come to existence, we should look up to them and our ideal in order to make some contribution towards the society and our country, for the better future of this world. President Akhil Bhartiya Mahajan Shiromany Sabah, Shri Dina Nath Mahajan, ExMayor kavinder Gupta, Chairman citizen co-operative bank Shri Dinesh Gupta, General Secretary Akhil Bhartiya Mahajan Shiromany Sabah, Shri Kailash Langer, chairman Mahajan Sabah Trikuta Nagar Shri Bal Krishan Gupta and Mahajan rattan, Shri T.R Gupta were also highlighting the contributions of justice Mehar Chand Mahajan, while speaking on the occasion and they paid Rich tribute to Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan. JAMMU, MARCH 17: Minister for Hajj, Auqaf, Public Enterprises and Floriculture, Peerzada Mohammad Syed today emphasized introducing the latest technology in all productive sectors like agriculture, horticulture and floriculture aiming at increasingly the socio-economic conditions of the farming community, adding that this is the only key source to ensure prosperity of the State in general and farming community in particular. This was stated by the Minister at Chatha here today after inaugurating the Kissan Mela and flower show in its experimental field station. Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture Raman Bhalla was also present on the occasion. "Saying that floriculture is among the priorities of Government, e urged for evincing keen interest in these sector for bringing change in the life style of people. He appealed the growers to avail benefits from the schemes launched by the Government. He said Government has launched several Centre and State sponsored schemes with a aim to uplift the farming community adding that focused attention is being given to promote the floriculture sector as it has a huge potential in the State of Jammu and Kashmir but need is to channelize it in a proper way. He said the government is also focused to providing hi-yielding seeds to the farmers but need is to cultivate cash crops. Referring to the achievements registered by the department of Floriculture Jammu division, Peerzada said that 3 cold storages at

Minister for Planning and Development, Labor and Employment, Ajay Kumar Sadhotra addressing a public gathering at Jammu. izing such a grand function for paying tribute to Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan on his 123rd Birth Anniversary. The Minister emphasized the people to follow the path shown by Justice Mehar Chand Mahajan for the betterment of the society. He said life and death is part and parcel of human birth and in this cycle of birth and death

Bhour Camp, Greenbelt park Gandhinagar and Zakhani Park at Udhampur have been set up to provide cold storage facilities in order to preserve the flowers in off seasons for ensuring availability of the crop in all the seasons of the year. He said three Refrigerated Vans have been procured by the Department to provide the transport facilities under controlled condition from flower fields of far flung areas to Urban Markets of the region. He said 3 major parks, Veer Bhoomi Samba, Bhalwal Bharmana and Chandian at Akhnoor have been constructed at a cost of Rs. 2.98 crore. He said Rs. 10.28 crore have been earmarked during the current year for the development and maintenance of parks. He said development of Bhour Camp garden will be taken up shortly.

Awareness camp under Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan at Kotranka

RAJOURI, MARCH 17-A Block level awareness cum orientation camp was organised by the Department of Rural Development Rajouri at BHQ Kotranka of Block Budhal under the Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan programme in which the Sarpanches and Panches of 58 Panchayats of the Block, ASHA workers, school teachers and Anganwadi Supervisors & workers of the Block besides field officials of the Rural Development Department participated. Dr Arvind Karwani District Panchayat Officer Rajouri, Mohammed Tanveer BDO and officers of Government Departments associated with the Panchayats also attended the mega camp. Awareness camps under Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan have been organised in all the nine Blocks of District Rajouri since February under the guidance of Saugat Biswas District Development Commissioner Rajouri by involving elected Sarpanches, Panches and grass root functionaries of Rural Development, Social Welfare, School Education and Health Departments to disseminate the message of sanitation and hygiene among the rural masses and trigger demand for sanitary facilities through behavioural change. Focus of these camps has been to develop a community led and people centred approach to Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan programme. The Resource Persons from Health Department have explained to the participants the importance of individual & community hygiene and the diseases which can be avoided by making Panchayats open defecation free. The participants were given tips about personal hygiene and methods of avoiding water borne and other diseases which can primarily be avoided by maintaining basic sanitation in their houses and surroundings in the Panchayat. It is pertinent to mention here that individual household latrines, school sanitation units and Anganwadi sanitation units are being constructed under this programme in the District. The importance of village water and sanitation committees in the implementation of the programme was stressed upon in the camp and the participants were asked to disseminate the message and importance of sanitation and make an endeavour towards making the Panchayats open defecation free in order to become eligible for Nirmal Gram Puraskar which is awarded by Government of India to Nirmal Panchayats. The Sarpanches & Panches of the Block were exhorted upon to adopt resolutions in their respective Panchayats and fix targets in consultation with village assemblies to make their Panchayats open defecation free and achieve vision of total sanitation. Block /Tehsil level officers of Tehsil Kotranka associated with the Panchayats explained to the participants steps being taken by them to implement the Government directions regarding the devolution of powers to Panchayats and the plan formulation for the next financial year by active involvement of Panchayats. The Departments were asked to convene monthly meetings with PRI's and were asked to send the record note of such meetings to higher authorities .The Panchayat level functionaries were asked to attend monthly Halqa Panchayat meetings and ensure that Panchayats are fully involved in decision making. Matloob Khan Additional District Development Commissioner Rajouri (Nodal Officer devolution of powers to PRI's) is taking review of the status of devolution of powers to Panchayat Raj Institutions in District Rajouri by arranging such interactive sessions at District and Block level under the supervision of District Development Commissioner Rajouri.

Govt determined to create healthy environment for people's comfort: Bhalla

JAMMU, MARCH 17Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture Raman Bhalla has said that Government is making all out efforts to beautify all the open spaces by developing recreational parks and walkways to make the localities more attractive. This was stated by the Minister while interacting with the locals after laying foundation stone for development recreational park at Greater Kailash W. No. 68, here today. Bhalla said that the park would be developed with the facilities of walkway, landscaping, illumination, drinking water besides irrigation facilities at a cost of Rs. 14 lakh. He asked the executing agency to complete all the works within stipulated time frame for its early completion. The Minister said instructions have been issued to Floriculture and JMC departments to gear up their men and machinery to maintain and renovate all the recreational parks situated in urban pockets. Bhalla said the Government was committed to develop healthy environment in urban areas by developing more and more greener patches on the open spaces. For the purpose, a comprehensive plan has been prepared to develop all the parks with facilities like seating, drinking water, sprinkle irrigation, illuminated walkway, landscaping and fencing. He called upon the people to avoid littering inside the parks and help in maintaining these clean. He called upon the people not to dump waste material in roads and parks, adding that such practices are not only creating hindrances for executing agencies but also dampens the beauty of the area. The Minister said 'it is the duty of every citizen to maintain cleanliness in their respective areas. Responding to the demand of locals, Bhalla announced Rs. 15 lakh for upgradation of lanes and drains in W. No. 68 of Greater Kailash area. He asked the Jammu Municipal Corporation to complete the project within prescribed time frame by using quality material. For improving of drinking water facilities in Greater Kailash, the Minister called upon the people to donate or identify land for digging of mini deep drill tube well so that the vital facility could be provided to the inhabitants after preparing detailed project report including laying of water supply pipes in the uncovered areas of the locality. He said Government is committed to provide improved basic amenities to the people across the state. At Rotary Club Jammu Tawi, the Minister announced Rs. 9.50 lakh for fixation of tiles in the premises, development of recreational park with illumination besides installation of air conditioners in the club. At Preet Nagar and K C Colony in Digiana, Bhalla conducted Public Grievances Redressal Camps and assessed people's development related issues like upgradation of link road, lanes, drains, installation of street lights, improvement of drinking water supply and mini bus service to the area. The Minister said Government is fully aware of people's problems and is making all out efforts to mitigate in a phased manner. He said there is no constraint of funds in fulfilling the aspirations of the general masses. Regarding improvement of drinking water facilities in the tail end areas of the localities, Bhalla said Government has earmarked Rs. 72 lakh under PHE sector for laying of pipes in uncovered areas, adding that the work is under progress and would be completed within stipulated time frame. He said after completion of laying of water supply work, the upgradation including blacktopping of the approached road to the localities would be started.

Biswas flags off ASHAs & Anganwadi workers to Maharashtra

RAJOURI, MARCH 17Chairman, District Red Cross, Rajouri (Deputy Commissioner), Saugat Biswas, flagged off a team of twenty-seven ASHAs, AWWs, ANMs from district Rajouri for a seven days training programme at Comprehensive Rural Health Project at Jamkhed, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. Fourteen ASHAs, two from each medical block, six ANMs, one from each medical block & seven AWWs, one from each ICDS block have been nominated for the said training programme. Biswas stated that ASHAs, AWWs and ANMs are expected to play the most vital role in bringing about a paradigm shift in community health care while involving the community in its various aspects. He stated that the District Red Cross had selected Comprehensive Rural Health Project, Jamkhed (CRHP), as the training ground because CRHP has been working among the rural poor and marginalized for over forty years and has become an organization that has been empowering people to eliminate injustices through integrated efforts in health and development. CRHP has been mobilizing and building the capacity of communities to achieve access to comprehensive development and freedom from stigma, poverty and disease. CRHP has pioneered a comprehensive approach to community-based primary healthcare (also known as the Jamkhed Model), and is known as a leader in public health and development in rural communities in India and around the world. The work of CRHP has been recognized by the WHO and UNICEF, and has been introduced to 178 countries across the world. He further stated that the objective of the training is to expose the participants to the Jamkhed Model and equip them in various facets of community Health Programme implementation there-by making them motivated gross-root leaders. "We are sure that the participants will come back with a holistic understanding of Rural Health Care. The participants once trained will further train, motivate and mobilize other ASHAs, AWWs, and ANMs of the district in a planned manner" he added.

Shabir lauds selfless, noble initiative of Rotary International

UDHAMPUR, MARCH-17: Minister of State for Health, Shabir Ahmad Khan formally inaugurated Mega Multispecialty Medical check-up and surgical camp in the premises of Rotary Eye and ENT Hospital Udhampur here this evening. The Mega camp is being organized by Rotary Foundation in collaboration with Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India, Govt. of Jammu & Kashmir and Rotary Clubs of J & K with the active support of District Administration. Legislatures, Balwant Singh Mankotia, Krishan Bhagat, Additional Secretary, Union Health Ministry, Ms. Mandeep Kour, Deputy Commissioner, P.K Pole, PRIP Rtn, Raja Saboo, Director Health Jammu, Dr. Madhu Khullar, Director NRHM, Dr. Yash Paul Sharma, DG Rtn, Upkar Singh Sethi, PDG Rtn. Dr. Rajiv Pradhan, Chief Project Coordinators, PDG. Dr. Vinod Sharma and Rtn. D. N Sharma and functionaries of Health department were present on the occasion. Appreciating the selfless and noble initiative of the Rotary International for the service of mankind in the field of healthcare regardless of race, colour, creed, religion or gender, the Minister expressed his gratitude to R. K Saboo and other Coordinators of this medical mission for organizing this Multispecialty Mega Health Camp in Udhampur for the benefit of the needy patients. He hoped that the initiative taken by Rotary International in the association with health department would go a long way to help the down trodden and poor masses of the state. Khan said that government is committed to make every effort to safeguard and to promote health of the people and ensure wide spread and efficient medical services throughout the state. He said such camps were require to be conducted at regular interval especially in far flung areas where people have very limited access to such super specialties. He further said that the 10-day long Mega Medical Camp which is being organized at Uhdampur is providing free medical services by renowned doctors coming from different parts of the country and reputed national institutes. The Minister expressed his sincere thanks to the Union Health Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad for paying special attention towards this camp and hoped that under his leadership the state would achieve much more in the healthcare sector. He assured all possible help from the State Health department for the successful conduct of the camp. Lauding the efforts of functionaries of Rotary International, MLA Udhampur said that it was a rare opportunity for the people of the area to get advance specialized medical treatment especially those who could not go outside the state due to financial constrains. MLA Chenani also spoke on the occasion and expressed his gratitude to the Union Health Minister for extending advanced healthcare services to the deserving section of the society.

Peace imperative for development, prosperity: Sagar

Asks people to extend their whole hearted cooperation for maintaining peace in the valley
SRINAGAR, MARCH 17: Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Ali Mohammad Sagar asked the people and traders to extend their whole hearted cooperation to the Government for maintaining peace and tranquillity in the Valley. The Minister said that peace is pre-requisite for the development and prosperity of the State adding that people's cooperation is vital in this regard besides it is responsibility of one and all to contribute our best efforts for the restoration besides to build up healthy atmosphere for the better inflow of tourists in the Valley. This was stated by the Minister while addressing to a large number of deputations from various parts of the Valley who put forth their demands before the Minister today. Sagar assured the deputationists that he would redress all the issues on priority basis, maintaining that the main concern of the government is to lead the State to touch new heights of prosperity and development. The Minister said that people especially living in Shar-i-Khas have faced lot of problems and government is committed to bring them out of this situation and redress their grievances. Later, the Minister had a meeting with officers of various departments and asked about the progress and pace of works of various ongoing projects in various areas of Srinagar including the works being executed on Dastageer Sahib Shrine, extension of road, besides construction of auditorium and Car parking at Naqasband Sahib Khawaja Bazar area. He stressed upon the concerned officers and executing agencies to redouble their efforts and accelerate pace on all ongoing works to ensure completion in a stipulated time. He directed them to use quality material in execution of the works.

Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Ali Mohammad Sagar assuring the deputationists that he would redress all the issues on priority basis at Srinagar.

Page 5.qxd

3/19/2013

12:52 PM

Page 1

STUDENT AGE MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013

EDITORIAL

Liberal secularists shamed Indians in US

ndia has enjoyed freedom over the last sixty four years, but has it actually savored it. It has come a long way since 1947. Political, judicial and administrative systems have all undergone drastic transformations. However, the only difference is that these transformations were more of a step forward and two backwards, making the progress complicated. If good things happened, they came at some price and so did freedom. Freedom meant a sense of responsibility, which unfortunately could not be displayed by its inhabitants. Hence, the country gave us everything, but in return asked for its price. The country gave freedom to its citizens and constantly reminded them of the price associated with it. Freedom can be summarized as, "the Sequence of Setting Free of Multiple Domains into Motion". Freedom means to excel and move on. But, unfortunately freedom is one of the most misinterpreted, misunderstood and misused word in English language. Freedom in most of the cases is interpreted or compared with irregularities in lifestyle. People think freedom means "Free from All", that is, free from work, culture, tradition, nationality and in some instances enlightenment and total liberation from life. Above all what they never think of is that, freedom is nothing but ultimate responsibility in life. In some instances in Indian society, people often misinterpret freedom as women equality. Some also raise their voice stating that women are being treated as donkeys, working both at office as well as home. But, they often tend to forget that Indian society has provided not equal, but higher rights to women than men. If one digs into the details, you can find that the responsibility of building a strong family and bond between its members have been placed on women's shoulders, which is a stepping stone towards building a strong society and nation. Women have given this responsibility because, they are more emotionally connected than men and their heart rules over the mind which is an essential ingredient to build a lovely family and society. For example, Mother Teresa was able work for the ailment for poor and diseased and thus with respect and love people called her Mother. There are many men who worked for ailment and betterment of society, for freedom. But, none are associated with the ailment and betterment of the poor and diseased in such a large scale. There is a common thought in India that a girl goes to husband's house after marriage and servers her inlaws, but men do not have to come across this torture, share the burden or perform daily chores. But, the answer is in the society itself. In some parts of Karnataka state, especially among Tulu speaking community, there is a custom wherein the boy goes to wife's house and looks after his in-laws. This is popularly known as Aliya Santana. Freedom is neither in misconceptualizing equality nor in fighting for over-freeness to visit pub, bar or in the name of socialization having free sex and corrupting the whole community or society by increasing the number of HIV AIDS infected population. Freedom is in understanding of duty and responsibility. The fundamental rights might be there, but its usage always carries "at your own risk" tag. If right to equality says no to discrimination based on caste, creed, religion and sex, then there are a few states which have gone ahead and ruined the sanctity of this statement.Things do not end with just one fundamental right. It extends to the rest as well. Likewise, right against exploitation, educational and cultural rights are also a farfetched dream for many. The country still boasts of child labor, going against the right at the first place. Poor uneducated children are often found subjected to the dastardly act. Apart from the former, slave trade and child prostitution are new additions into the ways of exploitation. In any country, people take freedom for granted and try to perform the act of their own. It can be legal or illegal. They often forget that in a democratic republic freedom is directly controlled by constitution, as both are defined hand-in-hand and they structure the future of nation.Freedom is most often misused. For example, Osama-bin- Laden, an Al-Qaeda terrorist recently killed by US Navy Seals 6. Dint he had status in society, enough money to lead a luxurious life, knowledge to excel? He had it all and a strong business empire borrowed from his Father, yet he lost in life all because of misuse of freedom. Genghis Khan, Napoleon Bonaparte, Adolf Hitler and many more had power, riches and popularity yet they lost in race of life; because they tried to rule the whole world. Dawood Ibrahim, son of a respectable police constable became a notorious underworld don, all because of misuse of freedom. People forget that freedom is provided to achieve something in life which is helpful for society and the nation, not to cause problem. To keep a check on you, policing of mind and soul by self is essential. Excessive amounts of freedom led to its misuse, which has catapulted in broadening the crime domain. The irony is that that a bad event cannot be labeled as crime till it is proven. High crime rates constantly shake our conscience, but we fail to wake up. And even if we do, the scary road to freedom disintegrates the remaining shred of courage. The very rigorous path of being exploited in the name of justice fills the heart with an unknown, indescribable fear. It tells that victims are well off with just one bad episode as seeking justice would be like encountering many of them. That's why half the people don't seek justice due to fear and the other half bears the brunt of seeking the same. Throughout the journey, they are constantly exploited for being relieved with justice.Every coin has two sides. Similarly, the progress also highlights a darker, a much shunned aspect. If the country has westernized in terms of clothes, food habits, industrialization, medical and technological solutions, it is losing its well being. Maybe we are not living in British era, whereby our choices are no longer conditioned by their power and rule. Take a closer look and you will know that only the sides of the coin have changed. Now instead of British raj, we have our own exploiting local goons and corrupt netas to superimpose their choices on us. Mere restrictions from exercising our fundamental rights have indeed helped them in handicapping us. They brainwash us, sometimes by hook or crook, to make their choices seem better. After sixty four years, maybe we have freed ourselves from the clutches of the English, but we still have a long way to go to taste independence and freedom from the clutches of malpractice, exploitation, mental harassment, corruption and crime. It is high time we respect the very little amount of freedom bestowed on us, take suitable action before we remain nothing more than zombies.

Dealing with an enemy

Pakistan bares its fangs, India must hit back
By Jaswant Singh Rana hile the resolutions passed in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on Friday, condemning Pakistan for its statement on Afzal Guru, are whole-heartedly welcome, they will have no meaning unless the Government follows them up by reconsidering its engagement with Islamabad. Issued on Thursday, the Pakistani Parliament's resolution, condemning the execution of the mastermind of the Parliament attack and demanding that his body (presently buried in Tihar jail) be returned to his family, is a brazen attempt by Pakistan to interfere in the domestic affairs of India, especially given that Guru was not even a citizen of that

country. That Pakistan's folly has further dented bilateral relations, goes without saying. Moreover, the Pakistani Parliament's misplaced concern for the law and order situation in Kashmir following Guru's hanging is amusing, to say the least, given that it sits idly while it own people in Pakistan are routinely shot or blown to bits in sectarian and other forms of violence. Equally importantly, the Pakistani resolution is a virtual endorsement of the 2001 terror attack on Indian Parliament and an expression of its explicit support for those perpetrating terror here. In a counter resolution, India has rightly noted that Pakistan is duty- bound to ensure that its territory will not be used to launch terror

That Pakistan's folly has further dented bilateral relations, goes without saying. Moreover, the Pakistani Parliament's misplaced concern for the law and order situation in Kashmir following Guru's hanging is amusing, to say the least, given that it sits idly while it own people in Pakistan are routinely shot or blown to bits in sectarian and other forms of violence. Equally importantly, the Pakistani resolution is a virtual endorsement of the 2001 terror attack on Indian Parliament and an expression of its explicit support for those perpetrating terror here.
attacks against this country and "only fulfilment of this commitment can be the basis for peaceful relations with Pakistan". This linking of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism (more specifically, the containment of it) to IndiaPakistan peace prospects is crucial and must serve as the fundamental basis for improvement in bilateral relations. The incumbent regime had gravely erred by delinking the two issues earlier, but as events in the recent past have proved, there can be no 'normalisation' in relations unless Pakistan stops supporting and indulging in antiIndia activities.

Do not forget that the Pakistani Parliament's nefarious resolution comes only a day after terrorists based in that country attacked a CRPF camp in Srinagar and killed five jawans. And that is not all. Less than a month ago, the Pakistan-supported Indian Mujahideen is widely believed to have orchestrated the twin bomb blasts in Hyderabad that killed 17 people. Clearly, India's many, and some would say desperate and misplaced, efforts to normalise relations with Pakistan have not reaped this country any benefit. All those prime ministerial-level deliberations, ministerial meetings, secretary-level discussions, promises of a liberalised visa regime and increased bilateral trade have

been just empty talk. If anything, they have been viewed by Pakistan as evidence of India being a soft state and, therefore, a willing target of terror attacks. Unfortunately, India has not done much to disabuse the Pakistanis of that impression. But now, it's time that New Delhi acknowledges the pointlessness of the process of dialogue with Islamabad. Such attempts are not just silly or embarrassing, but also deeply insulting. The talks have only compromised our national security. There must now be an overhaul of how India shapes it policy towards Pakistan. aMeaningless sports diplomacy, for instance, needs to end - and so must all the 'personal' visits by leaders from either side.

The Misinterpretation and Misuse of Freedom in India I

By Gyanesh Pandey ndia has enjoyed freedom over the last sixty four years, but has it actually savored it. It has come a long way since 1947. Political, judicial and administrative systems have all undergone drastic transformations. However, the only difference is that these transformations were more of a step forward and two backwards, making the progress complicated. If good things happened, they came at some price and so did freedom. Freedom meant a sense of responsibility, which unfortunately could not be displayed by its inhabitants. Hence, the country gave us everything, but in return asked for its price. The country gave freedom to its citizens and constantly reminded them of the price associated with it. Freedom can be summarized as, "the Sequence of Setting Free of Multiple Domains into Motion". Freedom means to excel and move on. But, unfortunately freedom is one of the most misinterpreted, misunderstood and misused word in English language. Freedom in most of the cases is interpreted or compared with irregularities in lifestyle. People think freedom means "Free from All", that is, free from work, culture, tradition, nationality and in some instances enlightenment and total liberation from life. Above all what they never think of is that, freedom is nothing but ultimate responsibility in life. In some instances in Indian society, people often misinterpret freedom as women equality. Some also raise their voice stating that women are being treated as donkeys, working both at office as well as home. But, they often tend to forget that Indian society has provided not equal, but higher rights to women than men. If one digs into the details, you can find that the responsibility of building a strong family and bond between its members have been placed on women's shoulders, which is a stepping stone towards building a strong society and nation. Women have given this responsibility because, they are more emotionally connected than men and their heart rules over the mind which is an essential ingredient to build a lovely family and society. For example, Mother Teresa was able work for the ailment for poor and diseased and thus with respect and love people called her Mother. There are many men who worked for ailment and betterment of society, for freedom. But, none are associated with the ailment and betterment of the poor and diseased in such a large scale. There is a common thought in India that a girl goes to husband's house after marriage and servers her in-laws, but men do not have to come across this torture, share the burden or perform daily chores. But, the answer is in the society itself. In some parts of Karnataka state, especially among Tulu speaking community, there is a custom wherein the boy goes to wife's house and looks after his in-laws. This is popularly known as Aliya Santana. There was also a matrilineal system followed in royal families of ancient Tulu Nadu. Rani Abbakka Devi of Ullala is an example provided by the history of India. She was the direct female heir to the throne of Ullala from where she ruled her kingdom and fought with the Portuguese for four decades. She is also regarded as the first woman freedom fighter of India. Freedom is neither in misconceptualizing equality nor in fighting for over-freeness to visit pub, bar or in the name of socialization having free sex and corrupting the whole community or society by increasing the number of HIV AIDS infected population. Freedom is in understanding of duty and responsibility. The fundamental rights might be there, but its usage always carries "at your own risk" tag. If right to equality says no to discrimination based on caste, creed, religion and sex, then there are a few states which have gone ahead and ruined the sanctity of this statement. They proudly discriminated people based on native state and language. Hindi, officially our national language is still looked down upon when spoken in a few states. People ranging from common man to ministers are mercilessly beaten by the selfproclaimed local godfathers and their henchmen for either speaking in Hindi or from hailing from a different state. Things do not end with just one fundamental right. It extends to the rest as well. A blue and blackened face, who might have tried to revoke it, may stare helplessly hoping the right to freedom of speech and expression to revive. Likewise, right against exploitation, educational and cultural rights are also a farfetched dream for many. The country still boasts of child labor, going against the right at the first place. Poor uneducated children are often found subjected to the dastardly act. Apart from the former, slave trade and child prostitution are new additions into the ways of exploitation. In any country, people take freedom for granted and try to perform the act of their own. It can be legal or illegal. They often forget that in a democratic republic freedom is directly controlled by constitution, as both are defined hand-in-hand and they structure the future of nation. Most often people get into dirty politics and tend to forget that freedom is there not only to enjoy, but to prove themselves in certain areas of life, and thus create a better atmosphere around them and a better society. Freedom is most often misused. For example, Osama-bin- Laden, an Al-Qaeda terrorist recently killed by US Navy Seals 6. Dint he had status in society, enough money to lead a luxurious life, knowledge to excel? He had it all and a strong business empire borrowed from his Father, yet he lost in life all because of misuse of freedom. Genghis Khan, Napoleon Bonaparte, Adolf Hitler and many more had power, riches and popularity yet they lost in race of life; because they tried to rule the whole world. Dawood Ibrahim, son of a respectable police constable became a notorious underworld don, all because of misuse of freedom. People forget that freedom is provided to achieve something in life which is helpful for society and the nation, not to cause problem. To keep a check on you, policing of mind and soul by self is essential. It helps you to reach new heights in life, scale altitude which is untouched by others ever in history of this beautiful world. People always condemn the nation and its government for all their social problems; but, once turn around and think what have done or given to this nation and society? When you ask for freedom then think of responsibility. Accept the responsibility, prove yourself and show the world how capable you are? Thus help the society, nation and the whole world to get benefited from it, in a positive way. Excessive amounts of freedom led to its misuse, which has catapulted in broadening the crime domain. The irony is that that a bad event cannot be labeled as crime till it is proven. High crime rates constantly shake our conscience, but we fail to wake up. And even

if we do, the scary road to freedom disintegrates the remaining shred of courage. The very rigorous path of being exploited in the name of justice fills the heart with an unknown, indescribable fear. It tells that victims are well off with just one bad episode as seeking justice would be like encountering many of them. That's why half the people don't seek justice due to fear and the other half bears the brunt of seeking the same. Throughout the journey, they are constantly exploited for being relieved with justice. Physically, mentally and financially, justice demands upfront payment at every step, tiring them thoroughly. By the time one reaches the doors of justice, one remains confused as to seek justice for which particular crime. Every coin has two sides. Similarly, the progress also highlights a darker, a much shunned aspect. If the country has westernized in terms of clothes, food habits, industrialization, medical and technological solutions, it is losing its well being. Clothes no more fulfill the purpose of hiding flesh, industrialization has killed natural flora and fauna, medical advancement has allowed us to realize that we are becoming sicker day by day. In terms of food, it's an even pathetic situation cause if one half of the country diets then other half remains famished and under poverty line. This is sheer mockery and reflects the price we paid for putting our nation on the international map. Maybe we are not living in British era, whereby our choices are no longer conditioned by their power and rule. Take a closer look and you will know that only the sides of the coin have changed. Now instead of British raj, we have our own exploiting local goons and corrupt netas to superimpose their choices on us. Mere restrictions from exercising our fundamental rights have indeed helped them in handicapping us. They brainwash us, sometimes by hook or crook, to make their choices seem better. After sixty four years, maybe we have freed ourselves from the clutches of the English, but we still have a long way to go to taste independence and freedom from the clutches of malpractice, exploitation, mental harassment, corruption and crime. It is high time we respect the very little amount of freedom bestowed on us, take suitable action before we remain nothing more than zombies.

READERS SPACE
Violation of financial code
Dear Sir Arbitrary allocation of funds for certain non-productive development projects from the non-plan sector by some officers in the government departments amounts to violation of financial code of conduct. Moreover, crores of rupees sanctioned for such projects are likely to go down the drain with government functionaries charged with the responsibility of keeping a close watch on such expenditures are turning a blind to such violations. Such a phenomenon is afflicting almost every department of the government in Jammu and Kashmir in the absence of any accountability of such officers. In fact, only a few such cases come to light and are reported in the media from which the government agencies get a clue about the violations of the financial code of conduct. Unless an element of accountability is introduced and action initiated against the corrupt bureaucrats, scarce resources of the state exchequer are likely to be drained out for the individual benefits of the bureaucrats and the politicians.

In the process, time frame for completion of some of the projects is also forgotten causing time and cost over-runs. Ultimately some of the projects become dead investments due to petty vote-bank politics. Proper management and track of the projects for their time-bound completion can only help the state government for saving the important resource. It will not be out of place to mention that frittering away the resource can lead to bankruptcy in states like J&K which ranks high the list of most corrupt states of India. Yours etc Aman Verma RS Pura

Death train
Dear Sir The elephant population in North Bengal continues to be neglected by the railway authorities and the forest department. The recent incident in which an adult tusker was mowed down by the Sampark Kranti Express in Damanpur under the Buxa Tiger Reserve is yet another example of gruesome institutional apathy.

The incident took place in the morning on account of gross negligence on the part of the engine driver. The death has exposed, once again, the incompetence of the railway staff and the forest department officials. They seem to have done absolutely nothing to prevent the deaths of wild animals on the tracks. Proposals ensuring the safety of elephants are only talked about after an accident takes place. It is preposterous that both departments are sitting on such a crucial issue, even though scores of elephants have been killed by speeding trains in the last few years. Train drivers must follow the rules regarding speeding. Forest officials cannot be allowed to shift the blame on the railways because the onus of protecting pachyderms lies with them. It is ironic that watchtowers are yet to be installed alongside the track so as to keep a strict vigil on elephant movement. The diversion of the train route is not going to resolve the crisis. It is appalling that the state government continues to look the other way even as trains mow down elephants. Yours etc Jeewan Dhar Janipur, Jammu

Page 6_ National.qxd

3/19/2013

12:53 PM

Page 1

STUDENT AGE MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013

NATIONAL

Will consult allies before UN vote on Sri Lanka: Govt UPA to evolve consensus on anti-rape bill
Karunanidhi threatens again to snap ties with congress
government for implementing India's suggestions to implement the recommendations of the Lessons Learnt and against those who may be found guilty of war crimes in Sri Lanka. "If our demands are not met, it is NEW DELHI: Amidst stepped up pressure by the DMK that India vote against Sri Lanka on human rights issue at the UNHRC, the government on Sunday said it has stressed for action on issues like early progress towards reconciliation, apart from credible probe into alleged rights violations, during the UNHRC meet in Geneva. The decision on the vote in United Nations Human Rights Council on the resolution against Sri Lanka will be taken after consulting DMK and other allies, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said here on Sunday. "The UPA government will take a decision on the vote against Sri Lanka in the UNHRC, later this month, after a meeting with its allies, particularly DMK," the Union minister said. The clarification by government came amidst threats by one of its key allies DMK to withdraw support on the issue. The government has been criticised for patting the Sri Lankan Mr Karunanidhi's threat went one step further from his warning two days ago to pull out his ministers from the union cabinet if the government failed to concede his party's demand. This warning came despite Finance Minister P Chidambaram hinting at a possible vote against Sri Lanka yesterday. India made the statement on Friday during the adoption of the Report of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group at the 22nd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Recalling that India had made a statement on November 01, 2012 in the Working Group of the Human Rights Council during the discussion of the National Report of Sri Lanka for the UPR, wherein it had made several recommendations to Sri Lanka, the government said the March 15 meeting this year was a continuation of this process for the formal adoption of the Report of this Group. NEW DELHI: The UPA government Sunday, a day before an all-party meet to debate the controversial anti-rape bill said it would evolve a consensus on the issue. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) have expressed reservations over the legislation. "We hope there will be a consensus (on the issue) at the all-party meet," a Congress minister said. The SP is opposed to the bill, particularly the clause on lowering the age for consensual sex from 18 to 16 years. "We will oppose the bill at the all-party meeting. If it is brought for voting in parliament, the SP will vote against it," party leader Ram Gopal Yadav had said Friday. The BJP is also concerned over the clause. BJP leader Najma Heptulla had said: "If a person below 18 is a juvenile and is given relaxed punishments because he is not mature

Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) Report and to promote trilingual policy. DMK chief M Karunanidhi today threatened to snap ties with the Congress-led UPA government if the Centre doesn't amend the resolution to incorporate the demand for international probe and time-bound action

doubtful whether our ties with the alliance (UPA) will continue...It won't continue is sure," DMK President M Karunanidhi told reporters after he wrote a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, saying he felt "let down" by the government on the issue.

enough to know the consequences of what he is doing, how is a child of 16 mature enough to consent to sexual activity?" However, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supported the government and said the controversial provisions of the bill could be discussed in parliament. "Our party will sup-

port the anti-rape bill being brought by the central government in any form and shape," BSP chief Mayawati had told reporters on Friday. Last week the government managed to resolve the differences over the bill within the cabinet with a group of ministers debating the controversial clauses threadbare.

Mining ban: Goa CM takes on Supreme Court

ly if I get a chance. I will say you are living in ivory towers," Parrikar said. Mining in Goa has been banned by the Supreme Court since October last year. The apex court is hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) on illegal mining filed by noted lawyer Prashant Bhushan along with local green NGOs. The petition followed closely on the heels of a finding of a judicial commission, led by Justice M.B. Shah, which exposed a Rs.35,000 crore illegal mining scam in Goa. Responding to the PIL, the Goa government last month told the apex court through an affidavit that the findings of the Shah Commission and the Supreme Court's empowered committee were incorrect. The affidavit also requested the prompt resumption of mining in Goa, claiming that the state's economy was floundering because of the ban on mining.

Nation taking precautions to avert militant attacks: Shinde

TIRUPATI: Union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde Sunday said the nation is on alert in the wake of the recent attack by militants after the execution of sole survivor of the Mumbai attacks. Shinde told the reporters in the temple town of Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh that the government is taking all precautions to avert such attacks in the future. "I have already told and we have alerted the whole country after the two executions of Kasab and Afzal Guru, the intelligence branch has already alerted the whole country that there is likelihood from our neighbouring country. And this has happened. Still we are alerting in the country, but we have taken full precautions," he said. Recently, twin blasts rocked southern Hyderabad city in which 16 people were killed. Shinde had said after the attack, India had intelligence agency warnings of a security threat several days before two bombs went off in a market in the city of Hyderabad on February 21. The explosions had come less than two weeks after India hanged Afzal Guru for Mumbai that killed 166 people. Shinde also said that they have also made progress in the case of the recent "The militants, the Fidayeen, the suicide bombers who had come, they were killed. Rest, those who had come along with them, we were able to find out which is one, we were able to find out where they were given shelter, that everything, every investigation is on. And we are quite capable now to get those who are hiding," said Shinde. Shinde had on March 14 said Pakistan-made items were found on the two militants killed in the encounter outside a public school in Srinagar. One person, alleged to be one of the militants from the encounter, was arrested by the police in Srinagar on March 16. Shinde further said that they have also made progress regarding the Hyderabad twin blasts case and would be sharing the information with the media soon. "Regarding the bomb blast, some progress has been made. Soon you will listen, you will see that progress," said Shinde.

Adequate security at rail stations facing threat: Bansal

CHANDIGARH: The government has taken serious note of "possible threats" to certain railway stations and adequate security arrangements have been made t h e r e , Railway Minister P a w a n K u m a r Bansal said on Sunday. "The government has taken a serious note of possible threats to certain railway stations and these have been put on high alert," Bansal said. He was responding to reports that five railway stations -- Delhi, M u m b a i , Chandigarh, Pratapgarh and Mirzapur -- were recced by two alleged LeT operatives. The minister said security has been intensified at railway stations to thwart the designs of terrorist organisations. He also made it clear that security apparatus at railways stations was sufficient to take on any possible militant attack.

PANAJI: Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, taking on the Supreme Court, has said it was not adhering to the judicial doctrine of "justice delayed is justice denied" when it came to Goa. "How can the Supreme Court stop a major activity for six months, when justice delayed is justice denied," Parrikar asked, while speaking to a gathering of top industrialists at a function Saturday to mark the annual day of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). "I will put it across to them (Supreme Court) blunt-

his involvement in an attack on Parliament in 2001. Authorities say a bomb that killed 17 at Delhi High Court in 2011 was planted by militants who wanted Guru's death sentence commuted. The execution of Guru came after Indian government had secretly hanged Mohammad Ajmal Kasab, the lone survivor of the Pakistanbased militant squad responsible for a rampage through

encounter with paramilitary forces and militants that left five troopers and two militants dead on March 13. The militants were killed in a gunfight at the paramilitary CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) base just outside the restive city of Srinagar, which has been under curfew for much of the last few weeks following protests and clashes with police.

Indian aviation sector is reviving: Ajit Singh

MUMBAI: Various policy measures initiated by the government for the civil aviation sector have begun to yield results and the airline industry in India is witnessing a revival, union Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh said Sunday. On account of these policies, the general aviation business would emerge as a key driver of regional connectivity and economic development, he said. He cited the recent examples of the Tata-Air Asia proposal to float a joint venture private airline and the interest evinced by Etihaad as examples of the growing business confidence in the Indian civil aviation sector. Addressing the 11th Routes Asia Conference which has attracted 160 delegates from 88 airlines around the world, Ajit Singh asserted that the 49 percent FDI in aviation was "the single most important policy decision" which will transform the country's civil aviation scenario. In order to boost international air travel, the government has liberalised grant of traffic rights to Indian carriers. "The new traffic rights have opened up several new international sectors and increased the traffic entitlements of our carriers by approximately 60 percent," the minister said. Ajit Singh called upon all the stakeholders in the aviation sector to engage in jointly promoting "Brand India". Emphasising on the government's thrust on development of infrastructure, the minister said: "India envisages investment of $12.1 billion during the 12th Plan period, of which $9.3 billion is expected to come from the private sector." He said besides the four public-private-partnership airports at New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Hyderabad, theAirports Authority of India has modernised Kolkata and Chennai airports and was developing 35 other non-metroairports. At present, India is the 9th largest aviation market in the world handling 121 million domestic and 41 million international passengers annually, said Ajit Singh. Responding to a query on the delay in commencing the work on the proposed new international airport at Navi Mumbai, he said the ongoing modernisation and expansion being carried out at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at Mumbai would enable it handle up to 40 million passengers per annum. Maharashtra Chief Secretary J.K. Banthia, who was also present, said that 70 percent land acquisition for the NaviMumbai airport has been completed and the state government is now in the process of relocating high tension transmission lines. As per original plans, the new Navi Mumbai airport was scheduled to commence operations around 2015-16. Routes Asia is a key event for airports, airlines, policy makers and tourism authorities to network and explore growth opportunities.

Indian universities should be in the top league: President Pranab

KASHIPUR: Expressing concern over the performance of universities and lack of a dedicated cadre of management professionals, President Pranab Mukherjee on Sunday noted that no Indian university figures in the list of top 200 such educational institutions in the world. "According to an international ranking of universities, no Indian university figures among the top 200 universities of the world. Our effort must be aimed at taking Indian universities into the top league," he said. Mukherjee was addressing the first convocation of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) here. The youngest of the elite institutions was founded three years back. The present pool of competent management professionals is not enough to meet the needs of the country, he said. A strategy is required to make the Indian industry compete successfully with the best in the world. Healthy growth of Indian business will be greatly facilitated by the availability of a competent cadre of management professionals. "The pool of such professionals in our country is unfortunately not enough to meet the need of the country. "The annual enrolment in commerce and management streams has increased f r o m around 23 lakh in 2006-07 to around 34 lakh in 2 0 11 - 1 2 , " he said. The need for graduates and post-graduate students in these streams will be much higher in the future and the country must be ready to meet the demand, he said. Underlining innovations in universities as an "important driver for growth," the President said, "Unfortunately, we also lag behind our major competitors in this aspect. "The number of patent applications filed in India in 2012 was about 42,000, which is far below the six lakh applications in both China and US," he said. For encouraging a culture of innovation in the country, he said, "We must create more opportunities for collaborative research, set up industry incubation parks in educational institutions and provide more research fellowships." H e observed that India t o d a y stands at the cusp of greatness and while there are many challenges, there are a l s o boundless opportunities. "We are passing through a phase of unprecedented demographic change which is likely to contribute to a substantially increased labour force," he said. The bulk of this increase is expected to take place in the relatively younger age group of 20-35 years, which would make India one of the youngest nations in the world, he said. "In 2020, the average Indian will be only 29 years old as compared to an average age of 37 for China and the US, 45 for West Europe and 48 for Japan," the President said. Exhorting the youths, Mukherjee said leaders of tomorrow shall aspire for higher standard of living, better service delivery and increased transparency and accountability. He also underlined the importance of "inclusive growth" for the country's political and economic stability and benefits for those who are on the margins of society and at the base of the socioeconomic pyramid. "The challenges being large and diverse, India needs grass-roots leaders who place people and their problems at the centre of social, economic and political discourse," he said. Hoping that the students passing out of IIM-Kashipur will associate with their alma mater, he said the role played by alumni in the growth of leading universities across the world is well acknowledged. The convocation was attended by Uttarakhand Governor Aziz Qureshi, Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna and Union Minister of State for Human Resource Development Jitin Prasada. 37 students from the Post Graduate Programme of the Institute were awarded by the President on the occasion.

Upper castes poor should not get any quota: JD(U)

NEW DELHI: Top JD(U) leader Shivanand Tiwary on Sunday flayed JD(U)-BJP government in Bihar for constituting an Upper Caste Commission, saying the upper castes poor should not get any quota benefits and a good economy was sufficient to rescue them from poverty. "I don't think they (upper castes) should be given any reservation benefit which are strictly made for the Backward classes and Dalits," said Tiwary, who is general secretary and national spokesperson of JD(U). He criticised the decision of the NDA government in Bihar to constitute the Upper Castes Commission to look into the grievances of poor amongst the upper castes and taking steps for their socio-economic empowerment including reservation if necessary. "This (formation of the commission) is just an unnecessary and useless step, I don't know why it has been done but I strongly oppose any move to grant them (upper classes) any quota benefit in the country," he said. "Since ages, they (upper caste) have oppressed the lower strata people, discriminated against them and deprived them of their due rights. How and what sense does it make for anyone to explore the idea of granting reservation to them or even forming the commission," he said. "Yes, there is some problem of poverty among the upper castes too, it will be cured automatically when the economic development of country will speed up, no need to make commissions and granting quota for this," Tiwary said. The remarks come even as his party colleague and Bihar CM Nitish Kumar is trying hard to bring the upper castes into his fold to prepare a for situation when his party might not be allied with the BJP. Even opposition parties had promised 10 per cent reservation in government jobs and educational institutions for the poor amongst the upper castes if voted to power. Tiwary's remarks might not go well with JD(U) ally BJP which counts heavily on upper caste voters especially in Bihar. It has been two years since the formation of the upper caste commission, but the body has not come up with any concrete recommendation, and until recently, didn't even have an office. Accepting the prevalence of caste in Bihar even today, Tiwary said, "We don't make tall claims of having eradicated the 'caste' and breaking the caste cauldron but yes, there has been tremendous change and our social justice mechanism has grown from strength to strength."

Page 7_International & Economy - Copy.qxd

3/19/2013

12:53 PM

Page 1

STUDENT AGE MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013

INTERNATIONAL & ECONOMY

Pope makes first window appearance of Papacy Bomb blast in Iraq kills 10 people
VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis has made the first Sunday window appearance of his papacy to a crowd of more than 100,000 in St. Peter's Square. Breaking with tradition, Francis delivered off-thecuff remarks, about God's power to forgive, instead of reading from a written speech. The crowd roared in delight. Pope Francis, a cardinal from Buenos Aires, is the first ever from the Americas, an austere Jesuit intellectual who modernized Argentina's conservative Catholic church. Known until today as Jorge Bergoglio, the 76year-old is known as a humble man who denied himself the luxuries that previous Buenos Aires cardinals prostitutes. "Jesus teaches us another way: Go out. Go out and share your testimony, go out and interact with your brothers, go out and share, go out and ask. Become the Word in body as well as spirit. Bergoglio's legacy as cardinal includes his efforts to repair the reputation of a church that lost many followers by failing to openly challenge Argentina's murderous 1976-83 dictatorship. He also worked to recover the church's traditional political influence in society, but his outspoken criticism of President Cristina Kirchner couldn't stop her from imposing socially liberal measures that are anathema to the church, from gay marriage and adoption to free contraceptives for all.

US conservatives choose Rand Paul as next nominee

OXON HILL, MARYLAND: US conservative activists have picked Tea Party favourite Senator Rand Paul as their choice to become the 2016 Republican presidential nominee as they wrapped up a major strategy gathering outside Washington. Paul, popular among the younger conservatives who thronged to the Conservative Political Action Conference, on Saturday narrowly beat Senator Marco Rubio -- also tipped to seek the White House -- 25 to 23 percent in the CPAC Straw Poll. The Kentucky lawmaker saw his profile raised after mounting a 13-hour, nonstop filibuster in the Senate earlier this month to block John Brennan's nomination to head the CIA. He used the blocking tactic to press for answers from President Barack Obama's Democratic administration on the scope of its drone policy. Former senator Rick Santorum, a 2012 hopeful, received eight percent of the vote, closely followed by rising Republican star Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey with seven percent and Representative Paul Ryan, Mitt Romney's running mate to try to oust Obama from the White House, with six percent. Some 2,930 CPAC participants participated in the straw poll. "We convened thousands of energized conservatives today at this 40th annual national CPAC 2013 from across the entire country," said Al Cardenas, chairman of The American Conservative Union. "It's been a longstanding and fun tradition at CPAC national as well as our regional CPACs to poll the attendees and get their opinion on a number of important issues." Former US vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin took centre stage on Saturday, needling Obama and even fellow Republicans. "We don't have leadership coming out of Washington, we have reality television, except it's really bad reality TV, and the American people tuned out a long time ago," Palin said. Palin, a former Alaska governor who was John McCain's running mate in 2008"Mr President, we admit it, you won, accept it. Now step away from the teleprompter and do your job!" she said in a swipe at Obama. "We're not here to dedicate ourselves to new talking points coming from (Washington) DC," Palin said. "We're not here to put a fresh coat of rhetorical paint on our party. We're not here to abandon our principles in a contest of government giveaways. "The last thing we need is Washington, DC vetting our candidates," she fumed, before lashing out at political consultants who advise on Republican Party strategy. Palin has long nursed a grievance against party strategists following her team's presidential election loss, when she had sharp disagreements with John McCain's campaign staff.

enjoyed. He came close to becoming pope last time, reportedly gaining the second-highest vote total in several rounds of voting before he bowed out of the running in the conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI. Bergoglio often rode the bus to work, cooked his own

meals and regularly visited the slums that ring Argentina's capital. He considers social outreach, rather than doctrinal battles, to be the essential business of the church. He accused fellow church leaders of hypocrisy and forgetting that Jesus Christ bathed lepers and ate with

BAGHDAD: At least 10 people were killed and 15 others injured when two car bombs went off in and near Basra city of Iraq Sunday, a police source said. In one of the attacks, a booby-trapped car blew up at a marketplace in Garnat-Ali

area, some 20 km north of Basra, killing 10 people and wounding 12 others, officials said. A second car bomb detonated in a parking area of the city, some 550 km from Baghdad, wounding three people, the source added.

Moshe Yaalon appointed defense minister of Israel

JERUSALEM: Israel's former military chief Moshe Yaalon was appointed defense minister by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. Yaalon, widely known by his nickname "Bogie," has said the Iranian nuclear program is Israel's top security concern. He also is known to hold hard-line views toward the Palestinians. The former IDF chief of staff served during the 1973 Yom Kippur War as a reservist and then re-enlisted, joining the Paratroopers Brigades and the elite Sayeret Matkal unit. Ya'alon became head of Military Intelligence in 1995 and moved up to become commander of Israel's Central Command in 1998, where he was serving when the Second Intifada, or Oslo War broke out in the year 2000. Ya'alon was appointed IDF chief of staff in 2002 and served until June 2005. The former army chief of staff ended his term just six weeks before the government carried out its infamous Disengagement from Gaza in which the army was forced to help expel nearly 10,000 Jews from their homes in the Gush Katif region of Gaza and northern Samaria (Shomron) a decision by then-Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz that Ya'alon had disagreed with. Ya'alon subsequently became a member of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and a Senior Fellow at the Adelson Institute for Strategic Studies at the Shalem Center Institute for International and Middle East Studies. He also serves as the chairman of the Center for Jewish Identity and Culture at Beit Morasha in Jerusalem.

Iran launches 2nd domestic made destroyer in Caspian Sea

TEHRAN: Iran launches the indigenously-manufactured Jamaran 2 destroyer in the Caspian Sea near the northern port city of Bandar Anzali in the presence of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Jamaran 2, a Wave-class warship, has been designed and built by the experts at Iran's Defense Ministry and has state-of-the-art navigation equipment and complex defensive systems. The production line of the advanced indigenous destroyer was inaugurated in Bandar Anzali six years ago with the aim of protecting Iran's 20-percent share of the Caspian Sea. The 1420-ton destroyer is powered by a 20000-horsepower engine with a speed of 30 knots and has the capabilIranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi and Chief of Staff of Iran's Armed Forces Major General Hassan Firouzabadi also attended the ceremony to launch the warship. Jamaran 2 will officially join the fleet of Iran's Navy within the next 6 months after the completion of final tests. In recent years, Iran has made great achievements in its defense sector and attained self-sufficiency in producing essential military equipment and systems. Tehran has repeatedly assured other countries that its military might poses no threat to other states, insisting that the Islamic Republic's defense doctrine is entirely based on deterrence.

France Marks Anniversary of Toulouse Slayings

PARIS: President Francois Hollande says France is tightening its intelligence gathering to prevent attacks like the one in the country's south a year ago when a radical Muslim killed three Jewish school children, a rabbi and three paratroopers. Marking the anniversary of the attacks, Hollande said that France has since passed a law which allows the state to convict French nationals abroad on terror charges, even if they have committed no crime on home soil. Gunman Mohamed Merah, 23, was killed in a shootout with police soon after the attacks on a Jewish school in Toulouse.

ity to carry helicopters, different surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, advanced artilleries and torpedo system. It is also equipped with electronic war system. The Jamaran 2 destroyer is a symbol of the Islamic Republic's capability and strength and conveys the message of peace and friendship to the Caspian Sea states.

ECONOMY

RBI likely to cut policy rates by 0.25 percent FM to meet heads of PSU banks on Monday
NEW DELHI: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to cut key rates by 0.25 percent when it reviews the monetary policy on Tuesday, in order to revive sluggish growth even as inflationary pressure continued, experts said. The central bank is scheduled to announce mid-quarter review of monetary policy Tuesday. "We expect a 25 basis points cut in the repo rate by the RBI in the forthcoming policy review, but rate cuts going forward are likely to be limited by still-prevalent upside risks to inflation and the widening current account deficit," Bhupali Gursale, an economist at Angel Broking, said. In the previous review announced Jan 29 this year, the RBI had lowered all the key policy rates by 0.25 percent. The repurchase rate, or the interest on short-term borrowings by commercial banks, was cut by 25 basis points to 7.75 percent and the reverse repurchase rate, or interest on short-term lending, was lowered by 25 basis points to 6.75 percent. In third quarterly review of the monetary policy announced Jan 29, the central bank had also cut the cash reserve ratio, or the money commercial banks have to retain in the form of liquid assets in proportion to their deposits, by 0.25 percent to 4 percent. Analysts said the RBI was likely to cut repo and reverse repo rate by at least 0.25 percent in March 19 reviews as economic growth remained sluggish. Easing in manufacturing and core inflation should also give the RBI some room to cut interest rates. According to the latest government data wholesale price based inflation rose to 6.84 percent in February as compared to 6.62 percent in the previous month and retail inflation accelerated to 10.91 percent. "Manufacturing sector inflation dropped to 4.51 percent in February 2013 as compared to 4.81 percent in the previous month. This gives room to the Reserve Bank of India to bring down interest rates and complement the intention of the Union Budget to enhance investments," said Naina Lal Kidwai, president of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). "This will help uplift sentiments of India Inc. The green shoots are certainly on the horizon and a concerted push in investment can help bring India back on the growth trajectory," Kidwai said. NEW DELHI: Finance Minister P Chidambaram will meet heads of public sector banks tomorrow to take stock of their concern amid moderating growth and slowdown in investment. The broad agenda of the meeting include direct benefit transfer, deteriorating asset quality and credit growth. The Finance Minister is likely to ask banks to increase lending to productive sectors to prop up growth, sources said. Hit by poor performance of farm, mining and manufacturing sectors, economic growth in the OctoberDecember period this fiscal slipped to 4.5%. Despite many measures being taken by the government to promote investment, as many as 109 private sector projects, with proposed investments of Rs 1,000 crore or more each, are awaiting clearance from different ministries. The high-profile meeting will be held a day before midquarter review of monetary policy by RBI. It is widely expected that RBI may reduce policy rates to prop up growth. The meeting is also likely to review banks' system and procedure to check money laundering activities in the in December 2012 compared to Rs 1,37,102 crore in March 2012.

SBI to open 1,200 branches, 8 overseas offices next fiscal

NEW DELHI: State Bank of India (SBI) plans to open about 1,200 branches in the country and another eight branch offices overseas, including China and the UK, in the next fiscal. Plans are afoot to open two branches each in Bangladesh and the UK and one each in China, the Netherlands, South Korea and Sri Lanka, bank sources said. With addition to these eight branches, SBI's offshore network will increase to 59. SBI, India's largest bank, has 14,677 branches across the country. Under the bank's domestic expansion plans, about 100 branches would be opened in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Meanwhile, the stateowned bank is in the process of recruiting 1,500 probationary officers to man its increasing operations. The bank has received 17 lakh applications for these posts. For the OctoberDecember period, the bank had reported only four percent growth in profit at Rs 3,396 crore. Its total income was Rs 33,992 crore during this period as against Rs 29,787 crore in the same period a year ago. The gross Non-performing Assets (NPAs), which represents portion of bad loans, stood at Rs 53,457 crore at the end of December, up from Rs 40,098 crore in the year-ago period. The gross NPA as a percentage of total loan rose to 5.30 percent during the quarter, from 4.61 percent in the year ago period. The net NPA was at 2.59 percent of loans in the December quarter.

NHPC seeks higher returns on investments in hydro projects

NEW DELHI: NHPC has approached the Power Ministry seeking steps to ensure higher returns on investment in such projects. NHPC, the country's largest hydro power producer, has said that Return on Equity (ROE) for hydro projects is too low to attract investors. NHPC has noted that rate of ROE being allowed for hydro sector is not commensurate with the gestation period and associated risk in construction of hydro projects. Most hydro projects have been adversely impacted by geological surprises. Besides, inaccessibility and remote locations and delay in land purchases have also hurt the sector. NHPC has also requested the ministry to consider the possibility of amendments to the tariff policy of 2006, to "extend much needed policy/regulatory support for promoting hydro sector". According to the company, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) is allowing the same ROE rate to all generators, including hydro and thermal, irrespective of "different gestation/completion time and associated risks" involved in project execution. NHPC has said that promoting hydro power sector through policy and regulatory measures would be in national interest. The share of hydro power in the total installed capacity of the country is about 18.65 percent, as on December 2012. In the 11th Plan Period (2007-12), the share was 20.38 percent. The decline also reflects the growth of power generation from thermal sources in recent years. At the end of January 31, installed hydro power generation capacity stood at 39,416 MW while those from thermal sources touched 1, 41,714 MW.

light of recent sting operation allegedly showing some officials of three private sector banks indulging in such activities. Deteriorating asset quality of banks may also come up for discussion during the meeting. Non-performing assets of the banks have been on the rise for past several months due to slowdown in the economy. The Gross NPAs of some public sector banks, including State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank and Central Bank of India, have crossed four% of the total assets at the end of December, 2012. Gross NPAs of PSU banks jumped to Rs 1,84,193 crore

The meeting will also dwell upon steps to increase credit flow to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), farm sector, infrastructure and housing sector, sources added. In its third quarter policy review on January 29, RBI had lowered key short-term lending rate by 0.25% and also injected Rs 18,000 crore liquidity through similar reduction of Cash Reserve Ratio. Following the monetary action by RBI, many banks, including State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC), reduced their lending rates.

Sahara's Subrata Roy challenges U.K. Sinha to live debate

MUMBAI: Sahara Group chief Subrata Roy Sahara has challenged executives from the Securities and Exchange Board of India for a live debate on a television channel to present his version of an ongoing dispute with the regulator. "Enough is enough. I hereby challenge and invite the chairman or/and members or/ and executive directors of Sebi for a live debate with me on a TV channel and let people know their wrong intent and deed, as a corporate regulator and clearly understand what extreme degree of injustice is being done by them to malign the image of Sahara India Pariwar," said a full page advertisement released by the group on Sunday in newspapers. It was signed by Subrata Roy Sahara, managing worker and chairman. The salvo from the Sahara group comes after the regulator filed a petition in the Supreme Court on Friday seeking civil detention of top Sahara group officials including Subrata Roy. The dispute between Sahara and Sebi pertains to the money that two Sahara firms raised from retail investors through securities called optionally fully convertible debentures. Sebi has alleged that this fund-raising violated its norms.

I-T offices to remain open on Mar 30 and 31

NEW DELHI: Income Tax department offices across the country will remain open on March 30 and 31 for taxpayers who want to file their returns and conduct other tax related businesses. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has taken the measure as the last two days of the 29 are holidays owing to Holi and Good Friday and the offices would be closed then, an official said. The CBDT has also asked all the Chief Commissioners of tax collection ranges to open additional counters to facilitate the taxpayers who would file their I-T returns for the 2012-13 fiscal.

month are Saturday and Sunday. Also, March 27 and

page 8_Misc+1.qxd

3/19/2013

12:54 PM

Page 1

STUDENT AGE MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2013

MISC
Pakistan lose to Proteas despite Afridi fireworks
JOHANNESBURG: Centuries by Hashim Amla and AB de Villiers set up a 34-run victory for South Africa despite a thrilling innings by Pakistan's Shahid Afridi in the third one-day international at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. Amla (122) and De Villiers (128) shared a world record third wicket partnership of 238 as South Africa made 343 for five after being sent in. Pakistan, who were bowled out for 309 to slip 2-1 down in the series, had been in deep trouble when Afridi walked in at 132 for five but he gave his side hope as he thrashed 88 off 48 balls with seven sixes and five fours. Afridi's innings included some of the biggest sixes seen at the Wanderers. One, after he had been bowled off a no-ball, was a mighty hit onto the roof of the fourtier Centenary stand which was last seen bouncing towards an adjacent golf course. Amla and De Villiers batted superbly after South Africa struggled early on, with left-arm fast bowler Mohammad Irfan taking two early wickets.

India beat Pakistan to Finish 5th at Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Hockey Tournament
IPOH: Indian men's hockey team came from 1-0 down to defeat Pakistan 4-2 in the fifth place play off match in 22nd Sultan Azlan Shah Cup at Ipoh, Malaysia. India had won against Pakistan 3-1 in the league match. This for the first time that they have defeated Pakistan twice in a tournament after 2003 Afro Asian Games, which was played in Hyderabad (India). While this is Pakistan's successive last place finish at Ipoh, as they were seventh last year. Pakistan got off the block first and went ahead with low flick from the skipper Muhammad Imran on their 1st Penalty Corner in 8th minute. Indian drag flick specialist Rupinder Pal Singh drew parity in 16th minute on penalty corner. Just few seconds before half time, Akashdeep Singh earned lead for India after being set up by Mandeep Singh. India doubled their lead to 3-1 in the 8th minute after lemon, as Malak Singh deflected the ball past Pakistan Goalkeeper Imran. Though Pakistan's Kashif Shah reduced the deficit three minutes later. India earned a penalty stroke 62nd minute, which was duly converted by Rupinder Pal, to seal the game and take personal goal tally in the tournament to six. After initial penalty corner conversion, both the side had quite a few opportunities on short corners but Rupinder and Imran missed their chances. While Indian mid-fielder Manpreet Singh was judged man-of-thematch.

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

Shamsher (Chief Advisor)

First Floor, Karan Market, Jammu, Ph:- 9419797242, 9018192949
Australia 75/3 at stumps, trail India by 16 runs
MOHALI: Australia were 75 for three in their second innings and trailed India by 16 runs at stumps on day four of the second cricket Test on Sunday. Australia lost David Warner, Ed Cowan and Steven Smith during the 21 overs of their innings. Swing bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar picked all three wickets to fall. Earlier Sunday, India made 499 in response to Australia's 408.

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)

Sports Council to revise fee structure

JAMMU: As desired by the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, the State Sports Council has decided to revise the existing fee structure across different games at various coaching centers in the state. The new fee structure is expected to come in force from April one. The new tariff will be applicable at the time of renewal of membership cards for 2013-2014. Important to mention here that the Chief Minister, who happens to be President of the J&K State Sports Council, had in general council meeting held recently issued strict instructions for increasing the scope of revenue. However, the State Sports Council has already revised the charges for various stadiums and sports fields, especially while allotting the space for non-sports activities.

For More Detail Contact: Shamsher (Chief Advisor)

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.)