Kapur reviews PM’s Reconstruction Plan

Executing agencies asked to intensify efforts to show results on ground  
Chief Secretary Mr. S. S. Kapur today reviewed the progress of implementation of Prime Minister’s Reconstruction Plan (PMRP) during which he asked the implementing agencies to intensify efforts so that benefits of these schemes penetrate grassroots level. He said more attention is required to address health, communication and educational sectors, which are the basic indices of improved living standard of people, especially of those in rural areas.  
The Chief Secretary chaired a high-level meeting on PMRP at SKICC, here today, also attended by a Central team which included Secretary, Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Mr. Vinay Kumar and Joint Secretary, Border Management, MHA, Mr. K. Skandan.
The meeting was also attended by Financial Commissioner, Planning and Development, Mr. S. L. Bhat, Financial Commissioner, Home, Mr. Samuel Verghese, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Mr. Anil Goswami, Principal Secretary, Information Technology, Dr. Arun Kumar and Principal Secretary, Agriculture Production, Mrs. Sonali Kumar, besides Administrative Secretaries of various other departments.
Praising the Centre for its liberal funding under PMRP, the Chief Secretary said time has come so that flagship programmes of the Central government started bearing fruit on ground. Making a specific reference to PMRP, he said once the ongoing projects under the scheme are completed, the distances within the State’s boundaries will be reduced and far-flung and remote areas of the State will be connected through roads and communication networks with the urban centres.
Mr. Kapur asked the Administrative Secretaries to personally monitor the pace of ongoing works so that the projects are completed within the stipulated timeframe. Taking stock of sector-wise progress made under PMRP, the Chief Secretary said utilization of funds should show physical appearance. "Embarking on any prestigious plan is aimed at providing benefits to common man and strengthening State's economy. Our effort should be to ensure these benefits reach people on time", he added.
The Chief Secretary called for dovetailing the works wherever feasible so that an integrated approach is put in place for successful implementation of the development programmes.
Mr. Kapur asked officers to remain in touch with Central ministries and ensure that flow of funds is regular and progress of works is not hampered because of procedural delays. 
PMRP has been revised to Rs. 30,867.71 crore, out of which 2,287.33 crore have been expended under Central sector and Rs. 2,786.01 crore under State sector. The schemes under both the sectors are being implemented by the State agencies. So far, Rs.5,763.30 crore have been spent on the PMRP projects in the State.  
Under State-sector projects, Rs. 2,052 crore have been spent on power projects, Rs. 250 crore on land acquisition for PMRP roads, Rs. 134.15 crore for model villages, Rs. 80 crore for infrastructure development of LAHDCs and Rs. 43.78 crore for newly-created colleges.  
Under National Rural Health Mission, Rs.144.96 crore have been spent so far while as another Rs. 164.85 crore have been utilized for electrification of villages across the State. 
Under the Central sector executed by State agencies, work on Batote-Kishtwar Road, Srinagar-Uri Road, double-lanning of Srinagar-Leh Road and Neemu-Padam-Darcha Road is currently on and so far Rs.2,287.33 crore have been spent. 
Under the Central projects executed by Central agencies, about Rs.738.56 crore have been spent on Uri Hydro-electric Project II, Rs. 261.37 crore on Neemu-Bazgo Project and Rs.225.36 crore on Chhutak Hydro-electric Project.
It was given out in the meeting that Rs.120 crore has also been spent on Dal conservation project. 
In his closing remarks, Mr. Kapur said there was an opportunity for the State to take advantage of additional Central assistance and asked the executing agencies to move in that direction. 

Polythene cause for all human, environment ailments: Experts

Meet of environmental experts at Shalimar
“This year Environment Day in Kashmir will be celebrated as anti-polythene day and throughout Kashmir, vigorous public awareness will be launched to protect environment and beauty of Kashmir”, this was decided at a high level meeting of environmental experts and scholars held at SKUAST-K yesterday.
Director Resident instructions, Prof. Sajad while chairing the meet appreciated the SMC particularly its Commissioner for taking bold initiatives to check the use of polythene in Srinagar city in the first instance. He said polythene was really a menace which has destroyed environment of Kashmir during last three decades. The experts revealed that the cause of methane contents present in polythene carry bags in abundance, had acted as toxic due to which not only bone, blood, stomach and head ailments were detected but overall it was found that its toxic effect had also adversely affected the entire nervous system of the human body. The experts lauded the state government for taking bold step in imposing ban on polythene. The experts said that the J&K Chief Minister, Chief Secretary and others who played vital role in a promulgating the eco-friendly law will be remembered in the environment history of Jammu and Kashmir.
On this occasion, the Environmental Experts including Dr. Shafiq-u-Rehman, Environmentalist, Dr. Rather, HoD, Environment division, Srinagar, Dr. Zargar Assistant Professor, Dr. Farooq Aaga, Dr. Ara, Dr. Geelani (Dal Experts) Mr. Galib, Environmentalist, researchers and sizeable number of students were present.
All experts unanimously said that the time has come that all people of state should work with dedication to protect the natural environment bestowed upon them by nature.
The experts said that the Dal is presently passing through environment crisis and emergency measures are required to be taken by the government by declaring separate Dal Protection Act in the same manner as SRO 122 of 11th May, 2009 was issued with regard to banning of polythene. The experts were of the opinion that in case Dal and other water bodies are saved at present, it will be a big contribution for the future generation. 
The experts also appealed all those units who are distributing food and essential items in polythene pocket to shift over immediately to paper bags keeping in view the disastrous effect of polythene on children’s bones and blood. The experts also revealed that in entire Kashmir Valley, the reason for reduction of rice production and other vegetable products is because of polythene content which has gone deep in the soil and its toxic effect has caused havoc in plantation. The experts appreciated Forest department, Pollution Control Board, Agriculture, Horticulture and Floriculture departments who have now started taking emergency measures in removing polythene content from their respective areas which definitely shall prove beneficial in saving the plantation of entire Valley. The experts said that Kashmir being seismological zone requires greenery and plantation in abundance which proves balanced factor in seismologic zone and helpful in avoiding frequent earthquakes.
Concluding the meet, all experts were of the opinion that on June 05, a rally will be taken out by all experts and eco-friendly people to protect the fragile environment of Kashmir and ensure that not only Srinagar but entire Kashmir is declared as zero polythene zone.

Rather lambasts PDP for capitalising on human tragedy

Senior National Conference (NC) leader and Minister for Finance and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather has lambasted People’s Democratic Party for trying to extract political mileage out of the mysterious death of two women in Shopian district.
In a statement, Mr. Rather said that the PDP has mastered in politics of opportunism and distraught by the drubbing it received both in Assembly and Parliamentary elections recently, it was now exploiting the sentiments of people and trying to capitalise on human sufferings by pushing them to violence and unrest in the already-surcharged situation in Shopian. He said the PDP would go to any extent to remain relevant in the political arena of the State and urged the people not to play into its hands.
Reacting to the unfortunate incident at Shopian, the Minister said that the government was committed to bring the truth to the fore and investigation was on to locate the cause and circumstances of the death of the two women. He said if it was proved to be a murder, the culprits would be handed down exemplary punishment. He said there was no ambiguity in the commitment of the National Conference-led State government to the human rights and violations of human rights would not be countenanced.
Mr. Rather said that the Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah has made it amply clear that he was the last person to tolerate human rights violations. He said that his government has shown in the cases of Bomai and Khaigam that it fully matches it words with action so far as human rights violations were concerned.
Expressing deep sympathy with the bereaved family, Mr. Rather said National Conference and its entire rank and file share its grief and sorrow and stand solidly behind the unfortunate family.

CM discusses micro hydel power generation in J&K with Dr. Abdullah

Union ministry to prepare roadmap for tapping vast potential  
Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah met the Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Dr. Farooq Abdullah here today and discussed tapping Jammu and Kashmir’s potential non-conventional and micro-hydel power generation. 
The New and Renewable Energy Ministry also deals with setting up of hydel power projects below 25 MW generating capacity. After Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, J&K has the highest potential in micro-hydel power generation. 
The two leaders discussed the issue of indigenous power generation in the State. They also discussed the potential J&K offers in non-conventional, solar, geo-thermal and biogas energy through which electricity shortage especially in rural areas of the State could be overcome. 
The Union Minister said the State has vast potential in non-conventional energy which needs to be optimally exploited. He assured the Chief Minister that his ministry will do whatever is required to be done to harness the potential the State offers. 
Dr. Abdullah also called a meeting of officers of his ministry to discuss the issue and prepare a roadmap to achieve the desired results. The meeting was attended by Secretary, Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and Principal Resident Commissioner, J&K, New Delhi, Mr. S. S Sahni. 
Dr.Abdullah said he will soon convene a meeting to discuss the issue threadbare which will also be attended by the Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah.  

Omar meets PM, discusses dev issues

PM reiterates to make J&K model state, assures review of WG recommendations  
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister (CM) Mr. Omar Abdullah met the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh here today and discussed various issues pertaining to development of Jammu and Kashmir State. He also felicitated Dr. Singh on becoming Prime Minister for the second successive time. 
The Prime Minister reiterated his earlier commitment given to Mr. Abdullah to make J&K a model state and said the new government at the Centre will provide impetus to development process in Jammu and Kashmir. 
It may be recalled that Dr. Singh in his first meeting with the Chief Minister on March 26, 2009 had expressed his desire to make J&K a model state of the country and assured him that once the UPA comes back to power after Lok Sabha elections, a comprehensive plan for accelerated development of the State would be formulated. 
Mr. Abdullah also took up with Dr. Singh the implementation of the recommendations of the four Working Groups set up by the Prime Minister on Jammu & Kashmir. The latter told the Chief Minister that he will initiate review of recommendations of the Working Groups to see what has been implemented and what more is required to be done. 
The two leaders also discussed various other issues including shortage of ration and deficiency in Public Distribution System in the State. The Prime Minister assured Mr. Abdullah that he will help the State government in overcoming these deficiencies.

Jora for timely completion of Rs 15 cr Khir Bhawani project

The Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora has asked the executing agencies to ensure timely completion of the Khir Bhawani (Tulamulla) development project. The project has been taken up as an integrated development scheme involving a total cost of Rs 15 crore. So far Rs 13 crore have been incurred on its development with 68 one room tenements, a Yatri Bhawan and pooja room stands completed.
The Minister accompanied by District Development Commissioner Ganderbal Mr. Abdul Majid Khanday, Director Tourism Kashmir besides other senior officers today visited Tulamulla and took stock of arrangement being made by the administration for smooth conduct of the annual Mela commencing from May 31 of this month. He was apprised by District Development Commissioner Ganderbal that all necessary arrangements have been made for the facilitation of the visiting devotees who are coming for the darshan of Mata Ragyna. The Minister directed the concerned authorities to work in close coordination and ensure that all facilities should be provided to the devotees during mela days.
Mr. Jora also inspected various ongoing works at the venue. He was apprised that construction work on extension of pooja hall, Yagya-shalla, Devari gate and toilet block involving cost of over Rs 25 lakhs are at final stage.
The Minister stressed upon the officers to work with missionary spirit and proper coordination to ensure all possible facilities are available to the devotees on mela days at the Ashthapan. He directed the JKPCC to ensure temporally function of all toilets and also asked for cleanliness of in and around of the Bhawan and ordered for engagement of more persons for the purpose. 
Mr. Jora while interacting with yatris assured them that government has taken all necessary initiatives for upgradation of various facilities to the visiting devotees at the various pilgrimage sites of the state. He said reformative initiatives are under way to upgrade the boarding and lodging facilities at pilgrimage sites for the convenience of the devotees. He directed the concerned authorities that directions issued from time to time in this regard should be implemented in letter and spirit and asked them that the works taken up should be given final touch in stipulated timeframe adding that any lapse in this regard would not be tolerated.

Ensure forest delivery system at minimum administrative costs

The Jammu and Kashmir State Finance Commission today held a meeting with officers of Forest Department with Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Mehmood –ur-Rehman, in chair. 
The meeting was attended by the members of the Commission including Mr. Swami Raj Sharma, Prof. Nissar Ali, Mr. Sonam Dawa, Secretary of the Commission, Mr. J. L. Gupta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, Mr. Irshad Ahmad Khan and consultants Mr. G. R. Malik and Mr. B. K. Suri. 
Issues pertaining to problems of territorial forest department, forestation, problem of deforestation, social forestry, restoration of efficiency in forest management, exploitation of resource potential, resource constraint, human resource management and efficiency, forest training institute, forest research institute, and coordination of various wings of Forest Department were discussed threadbare.
The Commission is examining coordination mechanism for all forest subsidiary departments under one authority like Forest Regulatory Authority or Forest Coordination Council to restore administrative and management efficiency and economy in forest delivery system at minimum administrative costs.
The Commission was of the view that to improve resource management, increasing forest productivity, improving land management of the basins, participatory forest management and strengthening of policy and institutional framework, forest department should take the necessary measures with optimal utilization of the available infrastructure and manpower.

J&K Informatics Service on NIC pattern soon

Committee to draft proposal in 3 months
Keeping in tune with major strides made the world over in use of Information Technology (IT), the government today decided to constitute J&K Informatics Service (JKIS) in the State, on the pattern of National Informatics Centres (NIC) across the country. 
This was stated in the first meeting of Board of Governors of Jammu and Kashmir e-Governance Agency (JaKeGA ), which was chaired by Chief Secretary, Mr. S. S. Kapur, here today.
It may be recalled that Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah, immediately after assuming power, had on January 14, 2009 moved at top speed to set up JaKeGA with an empowered Board of Directors headed by the Chief Secretary.  
Today’s meeting was attended by Financial Commissioner, Planning and Development, Mr. S.L. Bhat, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Mr. Anil Goswami, Principal Secretary, Information Technology, Dr. Arun Kumar, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Principal Secretary, Law, Mr. Akhtar Hussain Kochak, Commissioner/Secretary, Power, Mr. S .K. Naik, Commissioner/Secretary, Roads and Buildings, Mr. Mehboob Iqbal and Director, DOEACC, Dr. A.H. Moon.
It was decided in the meeting that a Committee headed by Financial Commissioner, Planning and Development, with Principal Secretary, IT and Principal Secretary, Law, as Members will draft the proposal of the JKIS within three months. The Draft Proposal for JKIS will be placed on the website of IT Department for eliciting comments and suggestion from the general public.
The meeting was informed that the Central government has been liberal in supporting JaKeGA and has already released over Rs. 15 crore for the purpose. It was also stated that the released outlay is meant for establishing projects as Capacity Building, State Data Centres, Service Centres, State Services Delivery Gateway and State-Wide Areas Network. It was given out in the meeting that four consultants from Price Water House Coopers have already been deployed to assist JaKeGA for capacity building besides an ace private player in the field, Wipro, has been engaged by the department for preparing e-governance, capacity building roadmap and DPR for State Data Centre.
Mr. Kapur, while speaking on the occasion, asked for exploring every possibility so that e-governance reaches every part of the State and facilities get extended on priority in revenue-related matters, health, consumer affairs and municipalities so that people get firsthand information of day-to-day grievances. He said public-private partnership should also be encouraged to further the benefits of e-governance and stressed the need for involving all Administrative Departments to promote e-governance in their functioning.
Modelled on similar agencies working in many progressive States like Karnataka and Punjab, JaKeGA has been registered as a Society. This is supposed to provide the Agency with much-needed flexibility to implement IT-related projects throughout the State and to receive grants directly from the Central government and other donor agencies.  
JaKeGA shall also take the single point responsibility for procuring all types of IT resources and services like hardware, power, printing and networking peripherals for government agencies which will help in streamlining IT-related activities of all departments and help save time and money

Environmental film festival concludes at Leh

Forest Division, Leh and State Pollution Control Board, Leh in collaboration with an NGO from New Delhi conducted two day Environmental Film Festival on May 27 and 28, 2009 at District Auditorium, Leh. It was inaugurated by Chairman and chief Executive Councilor, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Mr. Chering Dorjey. 
Nearly 440 students representing 22 different schools of Leh and teachers attended the film festival. 
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Chering Dorjey said that Ladakh region is facing brunt of climate change as many of the glaciers in and around are vanishing and some of them are shrinking. 
In the two day Environmental Film Festival, 16 different films were shown. Each of these films were taken from different parts of India.

CM meets Chidambaram, calls for resumption of internal dialogue

Chief Minister (CM) Mr. Omar Abdullah met Union Home Minister Mr. P. Chidambaram, here today and discussed various matters pertaining to Jammu & Kashmir.
The Chief Minister congratulated Mr. Chidambaram on being reappointed as Union Home Minister and said this continuity will benefit the State.
During his 25-minute meeting with the Union Home Minister, Mr. Abdullah suggested the need for resumption of internal dialogue in Jammu & Kashmir and taking further action on the recommendations of the Working Groups constituted by the Central government, saying these were the issues which can address hearts and minds of the people of the State.
Mr. Chidambaram told the Chief Minister that Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh was keen to make J&K a model State of the country and reach out to the people of the State by accelerating developmental works. He said the Home Ministry will try to push the recommendations of the Working Groups.  
The Home Minister and the Chief Minister also exchanged notes on Amarnath Yatra and the arrangements and preparation for the same.  

Transport Deptt announces policy to streamline traffic routes

Acting on the commitment given by Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah on the floor of Legislative Assembly, the Transport Department today issued orders for formulation of a sound policy to streamline route permits and reservation of certain routes exclusively for SRTC. The decision to formulate the new policy has been taken in view of inadequate transport facilities on certain routes and lack of proper monitoring and supervision to prevent road accidents caused by overloading on some routes. 
As per the order issued by the Transport Department here today, no temporary route permits on nationalized routes shall be issued without NoC from SRTC, except for religious, social, cultural and emergency services as specified in the MVA/MVR.
It has also been ordered that no fresh point-to-point permits on Grand-Trunk Lines/State Highways/Nationalized Segments will be issued and existing vehicles plying on point-to-point permits will operate on a specific time table framed by RTOs/ARTOs, in consultation with Transport Group Operators and point permit holders. For operation of route permits in the interior routes, a proper and definite time table shall be formulated by RTOs/ARTOs and made operational and for any violation of time table, such route permits will be cancelled under rules after the concerned Transport Group Operators are made accountable for the deficiency.
The Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) shall conduct a general survey of all routes in J&K for rationalization of routes, grant of stage carriage, contract carriage, point-to-point permits for hungry routes and, if need is felt for issuance of such permits on any routes, the matter be referred to Transport Department for further necessary action, where-after, based upon government approval and NoC from SRTC, the advertisement in the leading local newspapers shall follow, the order adds.
The SRTC shall supplement the bus services from Jammu Railway Station on Jammu-Katra route after such time JKTDC withdraws from the route in a phased manner, for which a proper time table shall be formulated by SRTC so that the point-to-point operation do not violate the existing routes/permits. The SRTC shall hire private transport on such routes, as and when required.
It has also been ordered that the 14 existing temporary bus services operated by different passenger service groups of Jammu and Kashmir on routes like Kishtwar-Srinagar, Katra-Srinagar, Udhampur-Srinagar, Bhadarwah-Srinagar, Handwara-Srinagar, Kupwara-Jammu, Batote-Srinagar, Nowshera-Srinagar, Rajouri-Srinagar, Kulgam-Jammu, Kangan-Jammu, Budgam-Jammu, Kathua-Srinagar and Jammu-Reasi, on temporary permits by rotation shall be regulated by time table to be formulated by RTOs/ARTOs and they shall not be allowed to violate the specified temporary routes/permits. Such permits shall be issued only as per requisition of the passenger service groups for a limited period to a particular number of vehicles on rotation and further issuance/extension to the next batch of vehicles shall be granted subject to production of toll tax receipt of the previous batch.
The MVD in coordination with District Administration/Traffic Police and SRTC authorities, shall ensure proper supervision and monitoring regarding deployment of vehicles as per time table, checking of overloading of vehicles/overcrowding of routes, punctuality, behaviour of bus crew, lean hour services and other enforcement activities, the order states.
For strengthening enforcement machinery, MD, SRTC shall depute 100 available qualified employees with clean record to MVD for their further deployment by Transport Commissioner to RTOs/ARTOs offices in the State, keeping in view their place of residence, experience and qualification. However, salary of these employees shall continue to be drawn and disbursed by SRTC on the basis of attendance certificate of MVD.  

40 theatre artists of Valley awarded

More than 40 prominent artists of valley today awarded by Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages for their outstanding performance in Anual “Kashmir Drama Festival” held here during 2009. Prominent Theatrist and Member Legislative Council Vijay Bakya was Chief Guest on the occasion while as Zaffar Iqbal Manhas, Secretary Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art Culture and Languages was also present on the occasion. Vijay Bakya in his address stated that Kashmir has remained a hub of theatre and performing arts activities since centuries. He added that The “Bhand Pather”, “Bach Nagma”, “Hafiz Nagma “and other forms of performing arts needs urgent documentation and dissemination from Government side so that this richest traditions could be preserved and propagated properly . He congratulated the artists who were been awarded during the ceremony and hoped that their outstanding contributions will continuous in coming days also.  Zaffar Iqbal Manhas in his address stated that from this year we are going to revive the Annual Drama Festival pigment in each and every district of the State which will go a long way in promoting theatre and performing art in the State of Jammu and Kashmir. He said the Academy is providing Annual Financial Assistance in favour of 150 Theatre and Performing Arts groups in the State while as, this year we have recommended about 100 groups for grant of Financial Assistance from Department of Culture Govt. of India so that the dying forms of Theatre and Performing Arts could be revived and preserved for all generations to come.

The Kashmiri Play “Taqdear Saz” written by Late Ali Mohammad and Directed by Mushtaq Ali Khan adjudged best among Eight Plays which were being staged during Annual Kashmir Drama Festival. The second award goes to Kashmiri Play “Achar Kaal” written by Yaqoob Dilkash and directed by Reshi Rashid.
The eminent director Mushtaq Ali Khan was chosen as best director of the Festival for his play “Taqdear Saz” presented by Actors Creative Theatre, Srinagar He also bagged Best Designer award for the same play. The best costume of award goes in favour of Shri Ghulam Nabi Mala for “Achar Kaal production. Best Makeup award goes in favour of Shri Tariq Wani for the play “Taqdear Saz”. Raja Maqbool of Azad Dramatic Club, Raipura, Ganderbal Awraed with Best Male Actor Award for his role in the play “Fathe” as Fathe, Best Actor Female award goes in favour of Amina Banoo for her role as “Moauj Kashir in the play “Achar Kaal”.
The award for second Best Director, Set Designer, Costume Designer, Makeup, Music goes in favour of Reshi Rashid, Nayeem Karnahi, Shafiya/Kausar, Sajad Qureshi and Ghulam Hassan Bhat respectively. Second Best Actor Male and Female awards goes in favour of Farooq Shiekh and Shabnum Shah
The other major awards in different categories goes in favour of Raja Maqbool, Gh. Mohammad, Mohammad Rafi, Fayaz Ahmad, Raja Maqbool, Mohammad Ashraf Nagoo, Mohammad Shafi, Manzoor Ahmad Dar, Ashraf Mir, Sajad Qureshi, Qazafi Khan, Ashraf Bhat, Gh. Qadir Lone, Gh.Mohi-u-din, Shadi Koul, Gh. Rasool Mir, Gul Javeed, Fayaz Ahmad Ganaie, Jamela Mir, Shaheen Reshi and Shahida Alvi. Each Award carries Cash Prize, a Shawl, Certificate and a citation.

Measures discussed for augmenting tourist infrastructure

SFC holds meeting with JKTDC, SKICC officers 
State Finance Commission (SFC) today held a meeting with the officers of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) and Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) to deliberate upon issues pertaining to tourism infrastructure, finances, liabilities, assets and profits registered during the 10th Plan by the said agencies. The meeting was chaired by Chairman, SFC, Dr. Mehmood-ur-Rehman.  
The meeting was attended by Members of the Commission which include Mr. Swami Raj Sharma, Prof. Nissar Ali, Mr. Sonam Dawa, Secretary, SFC Mr. Jeet Lal Gupta and Managing Director, JKTDC, Mr. R. A. Qadri, besides consultants. 
During the deliberations, promotion of new tourist destinations and augmentation of existing tourist infrastructure at health resorts of Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg also came up for discussion. 
The meeting was told that main job of the JKTDC is to provide improved accommodation, catering and transport facilities to the tourists visiting the State. The Commission was informed that the Corporation is having an annual turnover of Rs. 18.16 crore with an authorized capital of Rs. 16 crore and paid up capital of Rs. 5 crore.  
It was given out in the meeting that JKTDC is a profit-making corporation and providing of additional financial inputs and upgradation of existing tourist infrastructure can go a long way in making it more profitable. Construction of five-star hotel in Srinagar and various other measures to be taken in hand to attract foreign and domestic visitors was also discussed threadbare.  
The meeting was informed that the gutted Pahalgam Club is being reconstructed at a cost of Rs. 13 crore with all modern facilities in tow. Besides, work on reconstruction of gutted Budshah hotel at the summer capital will also be taken up by June this year. 
Later, the Commission held another meeting with officers of Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and discussed measures for preservation and promotion of cultural heritage in the State. The need for providing more financial help for creating necessary infrastructure required for promoting heritage and culture of all the three regions of the State were also discussed. 
It is pertinent to mention here that J&K SFC is examining various levels of development in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Examining disparities and imbalance between regions and intra-regional disparities and suggesting a policy for equitable distribution of resources based on scientific criteria for balanced regional development comes under the terms of reference of the Commission.  

WG meeting of Rehabilitation Council held

596 scholarships given; Rs. 9.83 cr provided for rehabilitation of migrants, widows  
As many as 596 children of victims of militancy-related incidents have been provided scholarships amounting Rs. 30.46 lakh. Besides, the government has also provided Rs. 8.35 crore for rehabilitation of migrants and Rs. 1.48 crore for welfare of the widows by February end this year.
This information was given in a meeting of Working Group for rehabilitation of militancy-affected people today, held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary, Mr. S. S. Kapur.  
Commissioner/Secretary, Finance, Mr. Sudanshu Pandey, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mr. Masaud Samoon, Commissioner/Secretary, General Administration Department Mr. Basharat Ahmad Dhar, Secretary, Revenue, Mr Aijaz Iqbal, Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Ms. Tanvir Jehan, Chairman, ehabilitation Council, Mr Vinod Koul, Special Secretary, Home, Mr Farooq Ahmad and Special Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad were present in the meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Secretary stressed upon ensuring total transparency in the implementation of the scheme so that the goal of holistic rehabilitation of the victims is achieved.
Mr. Kapur issued instructions that the Deputy Commissioners of all the districts in the State should be asked to ascertain the identity of the victims so that benefits percolate to the real beneficiaries. He said that a Committee should be constituted under Director, Health Services, for considering enhancement of compensation paid to the injured militancy-related persons. He instructed for conducting fresh survey of the affected people so that same could be compiled and submitted to the government for necessary action.

Call for setting up eco-friendly, viable units

Chief Secretary Mr. S. S. Kapur has called for establishing viable and cost-effective income generating units in the private sector for creating employment opportunities for the youth of the State. He stressed that the units should strictly follow the standards of pollution control norms.
Chairing the 25th meeting of the Apex Projects Clearance Committee (APCC) meeting, the Chief Secretary said every effort should be made to encourage the educated youth to take up entrepreneurship in a big way for improving the economic profile of the State.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Mr. Anil Goswami, Commissioner/Secretary, Finance, Mr. Sudhanshu Pandey, Commissioner/Secretary, Power, Mr. S. K. Naik, Chairman, Pollution Control Board, Mr. Lal Chand, Managing Director, SFC, Mr. R. K. Koul, Director, Industries and Commerce, Kashmir, Mr. Farooq Ahmad, Managing Director, SIDCO, Mr. B. S. Dua and representatives of J&K Bank.
The Chief Secretary underscored the need for establishing such units which are pollution-free and viable to promote employment opportunities in the State. He asked the Committee to encourage the entrepreneurs for setting up the units by providing them technical guidance and necessary back-up support. He instructed the Committee to submit feasibility report of various mega-business projects under their consideration within 15 days so that they are cleared for final approval.
The meeting accorded approval for setting up of two textile parks at Ghatti in district Kathua and Jammu coming up at the cost of Rs 1.30 crore. These parks will directly create job opportunities for 4,000 persons for which the Chief Secretary asked the Committee for getting certificate of land availability and acquisition rates from the concerned Deputy Commissioners.
The meeting also cleared establishment of two CA stores with a capacity of 3,500 MT and 2,000 MT respectively to be set up by local entrepreneurs in the valley.
Earlier, Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, gave a detailed account of the progress of industrialization in the State.  

State Hydel Policy to be revised to attract investors

Stresses on completion of power projects on time  
Identifying the huge potential of J&K in hydro-electric power generation, Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah Wednesday said the State Hydel Policy will be revised to attract investment in power sector. He called for better coordination between different agencies for completion of all power projects in a time-bound manner. 
The Chief Minister said this while chairing a high-level meeting to discuss issues related to Independent Power Producers (IPP), here today. 
Yesterday, the Chief Minister had reduced timeframe for completion of all ongoing projects by one year and stressed the need for indigenous power generation to meet the requirements of the State.  
Financial Commissioner, Planning and Development, Mr. S. L. Bhat, Commissioner/Secretary, Finance, Mr. Sudhanshu Pandey and Managing Director, Power Development Corporation, Mr. Bipul Pathak attended today’s meeting. 
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Abdullah said the State Hydel Policy of 2003 will be revised and made progressive in view of the future requirements of power development in the State. 
Later, the Chief Minister was informed that some of the projects under IPP Phase-1, are awaiting Indus Water Treaty clearances. 
During the meeting, it was decided that Power Development Department will initiate process for drawing up Wheeling and Banking Agreement as well as Power Purchase Agreement with the developer in case of Athwatoo Hydel Project in Bandipora district after remaining clearances are obtained.  

CM releases Rs. 20 cr for militancy victims

Revalidates Rs. 11.45 cr unspent balance of last year 
As a significant welfare measure and keeping with his promise of providing financial support in lieu of government jobs to the Next of Kin (NoK) of innocent civilians killed in militancy-related violence, Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah has sanctioned release of additional Rs. 20 crore for the current year and also revalidated unspent amount of Rs.11.45 crore of last year for utilization this year for payment of cash compensation. 
The compensation money will provide succour to the victim families. The Chief Minister, it may be recalled, had said at a function at Rajouiri while distributing compensation cheques to the next of kin of innocent civilians killed in violence that the relief provided by way of financial assistance would not compensate the loss of their dear ones, but it is only to express sympathy of the government and the concern it has for the welfare of the bereaved families.  
According to an order issued by the General Administration Department, the release of additional funds and revalidation for utilizing previous unspent balance in terms of J&K (Compassionate Appointment) Rules, 1994, has cleared all pending cases of cash compensation in lieu of government jobs for NoK of innocent civilians killed in militancy-related incidents across all districts of the State.
All the Deputy Commissioners have been requested to submit beneficiary-wise details of expenditure to the GAD by 5th of every month along with detailed projecting requirement of funds. They have also been instructed to strictly release the funds for the purpose and not divert the same to any other scheme.  
The Chief Minister had during his tour of Poonch and Rajouri districts on February 22, distributed compensation cheques worth Rs. 4 lakh each among youth as financial assistance in lieu of government jobs so that they could start their own ventures and live honourably.  

Adolescent AIDS awareness seminar inaugurated

Introduce AIDS awareness in moral education: Sham
Advocating introduction of AIDS awareness in moral education being imparted in educational institutions, the Minister for Health, Horticulture and Floriculture, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma Wednesday said that AIDS is not only a health related problem but has educational dimension, adding “As awareness is the only potent tool to check the spread of this dreaded disease, educational institutions can serve as the means for generating such awareness.”
The Minister was speaking after inaugurating a four-day seminar on ‘Implementation of adolescent AIDS education programme’ organized by State Institute of Education in collaboration with J&K AIDS Prevention and Control Society, here today. A large number of principals, headmasters, teachers and students of different educational institutions of Jammu province are participating in the seminar.
Project Director, J&K AIDS Prevention and Control Society, Dr. M. A. Wani, Director Health Services, Jammu, Dr. Jasbeer Singh, Head of the Blood and Transfusion Department, Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, Dr. Kum Kum Sharma, Administrator, GMC, Jammu, Dr. Rakesh Khajuria, Regional Secretary, Indian Red Cross Society, J&K, Mr. Anil Padha and Principal, State institute of Education, Mr. Thakur Dass were also present at the inaugural session.
Stating that adolescents are the most vulnerable sections of the society in terms of exposure to AIDS, Mr. Sharma said that children in this age group are more volatile and show tendency to experiment with new things making them vulnerable to AIDS. He said that it is the duty of the society to channelize the surplus energy of adolescents to a positive direction so that their thirst for novelty in life does not drive them to a wrong path. 
The Minister, highlighting the role of teachers in reducing the spread of the disease said that teachers wield greater influence on students and should serve as engines to bring social, moral and ethical transformation in youth. Youth of the country should be moulded in a manner that they are not only aware of the threat of AIDS but also spread the message of AIDS prevention to their homes and to a wider society, he said.
Recalling that lack of comprehensive adult education in our country adds to their vulnerability making them easy prey to the disease, Mr. Sharma said that time has come when we leave our taboos behind and talk openly about the disease not shying to highlight it’s causes to our children. He said that every one of us should strive in creation of a society free of AIDS, adding that he envisages J&K to be a model state in eradication of AIDS.
Earlier, Mr. M. A Wani briefed the minister about the efforts of the Society to rope in religious heads as well as political representatives in generating AIDS awareness among general populace. The Society has organized awareness programmes at different parts of the state and has covered 1,400 schools and plans to cover 600 more schools this year. 
Reflecting on the enormity of the problem, Mr. Wani said that every day as many as 16,000 new AIDS cases are detected in the world, 8000 deaths occur per day due to the disease and in 2008 alone 50 lakh new cases were detected. He said in India, the first AIDS case was detected in 1986 in Chennai and as of now there are 25 lakh people in India who have AIDS. 
Later, Mr. Wani also presented a memento to the Minister for his active support to the cause of AIDS prevention and control.

Over 51,000 pilgrims registered for Amarnath Yatra in first 3 days

The registration of Shri Amarnathji Yatra through the special counters set up by the J&K Bank across the country, at the request of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, had registered nearly 52000 pilgrims in the first three days since the commencement of advance registration.
According to a spokesperson of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), 51,518 pilgrims registered themselves through on-line and by on-the-spot booking in 110 branches of the J&K Bank in various parts of the country from 20th-23rd May. This number includes 26,787 pilgrims seeking registration from the traditional route via Pahalgam and 24,731 from the route via Baltal.
The J&K Bank has also introduced a scheme to provide optional insurance cover to the interested pilgrims, the Spokesperson said.

Next 5½ yrs will see new cycle of dev in J&K: CM

Lays foundation of 2 bridges in Sonawari constituency  
Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah has said his government has dedicated next five-and-a-half years to socio-economic upliftment which will put State firmly on the path of development. He said sustained efforts would be made for resumption of Indo-Pak dialogue to resolve all issues so that permanent peace and stability returns to the State.  
The Chief Minister said this while addressing largely-attending public meetings at Baniyar and Paribal in Sumbal-Sonawari constituency of Baramulla district, after laying foundation stones of two bridges in the villages.
Mr. Abdullah said the return of UPA Government under the leadership of Dr. Manmohan Singh would prove beneficial to J&K and help the State government in speedily upgrading basic amenities as well as strengthening infrastructure in the State.
Referring to the burgeoning problem of unemployment, the Chief Minister said his government is working out a comprehensive plan to tackle this problem head on in a phased manner to create employment opportunities in private and public sectors for accommodating educated and skilled youth. He said realizing power potential, providing better road connectivity and proper accommodation of all levels of schools and adequate medicare facilities to the people were areas his government is focusing on priority.
Mr. Abdullah said his government was also working out a policy to provide land to landless agriculturists with twin objectives of ensuring economic development to this section of the population as well as give fillip to the agriculture produce in the State.  
The Chief Minister assured the people that his government would fulfil all its promises made to the people during Assembly and Parliamentary elections one by one. 
Mr. Abdullah said laying of foundation of two bridges at Baniyar and Paribal was the beginning of a series of development schemes formulated in the road and bridges sector to improve connectivity and link the unconnected villages with the main highways.
The Chief Minister gave directions to JKPCC, the executing agency, for completing both the bridges within one year. The 73-metre bridge at Baniyar will cost Rs. 3.75 crore and benefit about 12,000 people of 10 unconnected villages of Baniyar, Chungpora, Preng, Madwan, Rakh-Hajjan, Mukoodomyari, Bakarpora and Bakshibal. Likewise, the 37-metre Paribal bridge will cost Rs. 2.23 crore and will benefit about 10,000 people of nearly half a dozen villages.
Speaker, J&K Legislative Assembly, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone, while addressing the public meetings, lauded the Chief Minister for his keen interest to develop cut-off and backward villages. He called for speedy development of Banyar, Paribal, Sumbal, Hajjan and Sonawari areas and demanded a degree college, polytechnic institution, special package for strengthening power transmission system, up-gradation of roads and compound walls for Hajjan and Shadipora high schools, a sub-district hospital and a separate R&B division in the area. 
Mr. Lone also thanked Mr. Abdullah for laying foundation stones of the two bridges, adding the demand for these bridges was long pending. He also requested the Chief Minister for granting ownership rights over the land to the people of Baniyar who have not so far been transferred the rights.
Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai and Commissioner/Secretary, R&B, Mr. Mehboob Iqbal, besides other district officers were present on the occasion.

Doctors come forward to serve the weaker and marginalized: Lone

A 4-day long 3rd National Level Live Operative Workshop organized by Maaya Foundation Manglore (MFM) in Association with German Cleft Children Aid Society at Kimaaya Cleft Centre Al-Aziz Hospital, Khayam commenced today, Speaker, J&K Legislative Assembly Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone was the chief guest on the occasion.
Director SKIMS, Dr. Abdul Hamid Zargar, Ex- Director SKIMS Dr. Mehraj-ud-Din, President, MFM, Prof. K.S.Rao and other prominent doctors attended the workshop.
Speaking on the inaugural function, the Speaker asked the organizers to launch a advanced maxillofacial surgery programmes in rural areas also. He urged upon the doctors to serve the people particularly from low socio-economic background born with Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate and other congenital and post traumatic maxillofacial deformaties. He said that the profession is a noble one so they have to pay special attention to those who are socially and economically downtrodden.
Mr. Lone while congratulated the organizer for organizing such free advanced maxillofacial surgeries, said that such NGOs should be encouraged and assured them of every possible help from the government as health sector is a priority area.
The Speaker was informed that Kimaaya Cleft Centre is a unit of MFM supported by German Cleft Children Aid Society and the Centre has started its functioning from January 1st 2008 and from past one and a half year more than 300 cases were operated in the hospital with more than 100 cases operated from during last three months.
Director SKIMS and other dignitaries were also spoke on the occasion.

CEC interacts with students, takes shikara ride

Chief Election Commissioner Mr. Navin Chawla, who is currently holidaying in Kashmir, today visited Delhi Public School, here and had an interaction with students. 
Mr. Chawla impressed upon the students the significance of vote and asked them to register themselves as voters when they attain the age of 18 so that they are able to choose government of their choice. He also spoke on criminalization of politics during his interaction with the students. 
Earlier, the Chief Election Commissioner had a shikara ride on the waters of the famous Dal lake. He was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Rupika Chawla.

Rail traffic restored; Special Train pressed in service

1. Only 5-7K passengers are at Jmu Rly Stn: DTM
   
2. Stranded passengers face hardships
   
3. Large scale damages to Railway 
   
4. Properties worth crores destroyed 
5. WR short terminates trains 
   
   
   After 36 hours following protests in Punjab, rail traffic was restored in Punjab at 3:30 PM on Tuesday afternoon and the first train left from Jammu Tawi to Varanasi via Punjab giving a big relief to passengers, even as thousands of passengers, including Vaishno Devi pilgrims, remained stranded at the Railway Station Jammu.
   Rail traffic was badly affected for nearly 36 hours in Punjab because of the spiralling violence over the killing of a Sikh sect leader in Vienna and the Northern Railways had to cancel as many as 30 trains on Monday and four trains on Tuesday afternoon.
   Thousands of passengers were stranded at different Railway Stations because of the halted train service and they were provided shelter at Gurudwaras and Railway Colonies in Punjab and other stations enroute.
   Talking to this reporter , Divisional Traffic Manager (DTM), Ashok Sharma said that only 5,000 to 7,000 passengers were left stranded at the Jammu Railway Station in the late evening and will be cleared soon. He added that a special train, Delhi Passenger Special has been pressed into service to clear the stranded passengers from Jammu Railway Station.
   Sharma added, “Our focus is to clear the stranded passengers first for which every possible move is being taken.” "After the services are restored, we will clear all stranded passengers within 24 hours," he added. 
   When asked about the losses suffered by the Northern Railways due to the 36 hours halt, Sharma mentioned, “The losses will be calculated tomorrow, our priority at this point is to clear the passengers stranded at Jammu Railway Station and make arrangements for them.”
   Relevent to mention here that till Tuesday afternoon, over 25,000 passengers were stranded, including pilgrims to the Vaishno Devi shrine, who were battling scorching heat at the Railway Station Jammu. 
   The situation in trouble-torn Punjab on Tuesday was tense but under control after violence swept the state on Monday. Buses were not plying in the state and most of the train services remained curtailed. The first train that passed through Ludhiana on Tuesday morning was Guwahati-Jammu Himgiri express. However, roads, which had been blocked by protestors who had set up barricades, have been cleared for traffic. 
   Meanwhile, three trains bound for Punjab and Jammu were terminated at Ambala junction, including Dadar-Amritsar express, Mumbai-Amritsar deluxe and Shaheed express. Three trains were cancelled including Amritsar-Nanded Sachkhand express, Amritsar-Jansewa express and Meerut-Ludhiana superfast.
   The Railway authorities opened special counters to facilitate the cancellation of tickets. Some of the stranded passengers managed to leave Jammu by buses or private cars during the night.
   Braving the scorching heat, many passengers are putting up at platforms or the Waiting Halls of the Railway Station.
   Worthwhile to mention here that Railways had cancelled 19 trains from Jammu passing through Punjab after violence broke out in Jalandhar and other neighbouring districts of Punjab on Monday, leaving more than about 17,000 passengers, mostly Vaishno Devi pilgrims, stranded at Jammu Railway Station.
   Five trains, including Inter-City Varanasi, Sonapur and Bandra trains, which were stranded at various places have reached Jammu Railway station on Tuesday, while two trains reached Jammu in the morning after crossing Punjab during the night.
   The number of stranded passengers is likely to go up as pilgrims are continuing to return from Vaishno Devi shrine as also other people, who were scheduled to leave from Jammu station to other parts of the country. 
   The Guest Houses and Hotels around the area are all full and it is really very difficult for the stranded people to manage in this hot weather with children. Some were running short of money so had to make their family sleep on the Railway platform.
   As the stranded passengers were battling for everything two social organisations and the state unit of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) organised Langers at the Railway Station to provide food to stranded pilgrims.
   Reports said that several hundred passengers have already left for Delhi and other stations through alternative modes of road transport.
   Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu, Manohar Singh visited the Railway Station on Tuesday to monitor the basic amenities like water, medicines and food for the passengers.
   Moreover, some mobile toilet vans have been set up for the convenience of stranded passengers. 
   Free Langers were organized at the Railway Station by the administration with the support of NGOs and Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) while as adequate number of tankers have been pressed into service to provide drinking water to the passengers. Two medical camps, one each at the platform of Railway Station and outside the station have been set up to facilitate the held up passengers. Besides, all arrangements for maintaining sanitation in and around the premises of Railway Station have also been ensured to prevent the outbreak of any disease.
   Free food was also being provided by the Northern Railway Women's Welfare Organisation at various places.
   Railways had cancelled over 30 trains yesterday and regulated another 10 because of the violence. Over 14 trains were also left stranded midway at several stations in the state as protesters squatted on rail tracks.
   The violence also caused large scale damage to Railway properties, with sources saying properties worth crores were destroyed due to burning of coaches and stone pelting at the locomotives.
   Earlier, thirsty, hungry and exhausted! This is how one could best describe the state of affairs and mental makeup of several thousand stranded passengers at Jammu Railway Station awaiting their turn to get on board trains to reach home safely since Monday.
   Before the train services were restored on Tuesday the stranded passengers faced lot of hardships at the Jammu Railway Station as unhygienic conditions and foul smell emanating from over crowded toilets made life miserable for passengers camping at railway platforms.
   Women and small children were the worst sufferers followed by elderly citizens who accompanied their wards to perform holy pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.
    The looming uncertainties had started taking heavy toll on the psyche of the stranded passengers but as the day progressed passengers were hugely relieved as they heard the positive news for the first time in the last 36 hours. Divisional Traffic Manager, Ashok Sharma made a sudden announcement minutes after the state Health Minister, Sham Lal Sharma made a surprise visit to the Jammu Railway Station to supervise steps being taken by the local authorities to help stranded passengers and assured the passengers that the Railway authorities and the State Government were making all out efforts to rescue them from crisis situation. Deputy Commissioner, Jammu, Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, IG, Crime and Railways, A. Anjum, Director Health Services, Jammu, Dr. Jasbeer Singh, Chief Engineer, PHE, V. K Abrol, SSP, Jammu, S. Manohar Singh, CMO, Jammu, Dr. Shahid Mugal and senior officers of Railways also accompanied the minister. 
   The rail network was finally restored following an improvement in general law and order situation across Punjab and thousands of passengers embarked on train journeys to reach their destinations one by one.
    It may be mentioned that the train services were hit hard on Monday morning after few bogies of Jammu bound train were torched by angry protestors at Jallandhar.
   Since Monday more than twenty thousand passengers were struggling to cope with the adverse conditions in the absence of basic hygienic conditions on over crowded railway platforms. At several places the passengers found it difficult to even find enough space to accommodate their luggage and had to shift out in the open outside Railway Station building.
   MEANWHILE: Reports from Ahmedabad added that Western Railways (WR) have effected short term termination of trains today in view of the agitation in Punjab.
   Western Railway sources said here that Train No-9223 Ahmedabad-Jammu Tawi Express will be short-terminated at Ferozepur and its return service 9224 will originate from Ferozepur.
   Train No 1057 Dadar-Amritsar was short-terminated at Ambala and will originate as 1058 Dadar Express from Ambala, which will remain cancelled between Ambala-Amritsar-Ambala. Train No 2471 Bandra-Jammu Tawi Swaraj Express has been short-terminated at New Delhi and will originate as 2472 from New Delhi. 
   Train No 2919 Indore-Jammu Tawi Malwa Express will be short-terminated at Ambala and will originate as 2920 Malwa Express from Ambala today. Train No 2925 Amritsar-Bandra (T) Paschim Express has been short-terminated at Ambala and its return service 2926 Paschim Express will originate from Ambala.

TIME TO WAIT:

Stranded passengers waiting at the Railway Station in Jammu on Tuesday as 19 trains from Jammu were cancelled in view of bad situation and curfew due to violent protests in Punjab.

Change food habits to avoid complications

SKIMS holds seminar on lifestyle diseases 
In order to create awareness about lifestyle diseases and sensitize youth about virtues of healthy living, an awareness programme - Awareness, Advocacy and Sensitization on Health (AASH), was organized by SKIMS for the students of Islamia College of Science and Commerce, here today. 
About 325 students of the college, besides teachers from the prestigious educational institution attended the seminar. 
Director, SKIMS, Prof. Abdul Hamid Zargar, while speaking on the occasion, identified unhealthy living habits prevalent in the society as a major cause of diseases like diabetes and asked students to change their food habits for better health. 
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Imtiyaz, Dean and HoD, Community Medicine, highlighted need for creating awareness about lifestyle diseases, which is emerging as a major public health problem. He also highlighted the role of youth in generating a vigorous campaign against such diseases.  
Dr. Khurshid Aslam, Additional Professor, Department of Cardiology, highlighted risk of ischemic heart disease. Dr. Sharik A. Masoodi, who also addressed the students, pinpointed risk factors in hypertension, its impact and gave details on means of preventing high blood pressure. 
Dr. Abdul Majeed Ganai highlighted the role of modifying eating habits by bringing in behavioral change for prevention of diet-related diseases. 
Later, Prof. M. A. Shah, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, and Prof K. A. Qazi, Programme Covenor, Islamia College appreciated the efforts and highlighted the role of youth in responsive citizenship and called upon them to act as ambassadors of the society to disseminate information among families and the society so that preventive measures can be taken. 
Pamphlets, both in Urdu and English, to create awareness among all classes of people about lifestyle diseases, risk factors and preventive measures were also distribute among students on the occasion.

JK moots tunnel to tap Ravi water potential

Will help irrigate 1.33 lakh acres of land in Ravi Basin
The State Government is contemplating to construct a water tunnel at Satwain near Thein village in Kathua district to fetch due share of water from Ranjit Sagar Dam for power generation and augmenting irrigation facilities in the district. The project, on completion, would provide irrigation facilities for 1.33 lakh acres of land in Ravi-Tawi Command Area (RTCA), enabling the State to produce additional 2.66 lakh tonnes of agricultural produce, besides generating 35 MW power.
This was disclosed by Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din at a press conference, here today. He said under water and power sharing agreements with Punjab government, Jammu and Kashmir is eligible to get 1,100 cusecs of water from River Ravi by gravity and 20 percent of power generated at Ranjit Sagar Dam at Thein. Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din said a detailed project report has been formulated for the construction of the said tunnel at Satwain which is being placed before the State Cabinet shortly. He said the project is expected to be completed within 4 years and would be instrumental in boosting agriculture sector in the area and help the State to meet its food requirements. He said the proposed water tunnel would also add to irrigation potential of Ravi-Tawi Command Area by tapping water from Ujh Barrage at Jasrota.  
The Minister said that for improving irrigation facilities in border areas of Suchetgarh, R. S. Pura and Bishnah, 700 cusecs of water from Tawi has been diverted at Belicharana to Ranbir Canal. The diversion of Tawi water to Ranbir Canal will provide better irrigation facilities in 42 villages falling at the tailend of the canal and would help to increase agriculture produce in these areas also. He said that about 85,000 hectares of cultivable land in these areas would get irrigation facilities, adding that the farmers of the area who have been cultivating rainfed crops can go for paddy cultivation.
Mr. Taj said a proposal also stands formulated for construction of a lake over River Tawi near present Tawi bridge, which will help to tame the water of Badi Tawi getting diverted towards Nikki Tawi. The Lake would be a captivating tourist destination and a picnic spot in Jammu city besides, ideal for boating purposes, he added. 
Special Secretary, Irrigation and Flood Control, Ms Sarita Chouhan, Chief Engineer, Irrigation Department, Jammu, Mr Daleep Bakshi and Chief Engineer Ravi, Tawi Irrigation Complex, Mr. B R Dogra were also present.

Tapping adventure tourism potential will improve J&K’s economy: CM

Flags off batch of 43 trekkers for Heritage Trek Expedition 
Chief Minister (CM) Mr. Omar Abdullah Tuesday said that adventure tourism has enormous potential in Jammu and Kashmir due to its varied topography, geographical and climatic conditions which needs major canvassing to transform the socio-economic conditions of people of the State.
The Chief Minister said this while flagging off a batch of 43 student trekkers of Samba and Udhampur districts from Boys PG College, under Heritage Trek Expedition, here this morning. The expedition is being organized by Youth Hostel Association of India (YHAI), in collaboration with Directorates of Tourism and Education and District Administration.
The Chief Minister said events like trekking lead to inculcating self-confidence amongst youth and provide an opportunity of healthy outdoor activity with exposure to rich heritage of our State.
While flagging off trekkers, Mr. Abdullah became nostalgic and recalled that 22 years ago, a similar event was held at Gulmarg when he accompanied his father Dr. Farooq Abdullah, who inaugurated a trekking expedition. He expressed his pleasure to have inaugurated trekking expedition from Udhampur as Chief Minister.
Highlighting the importance of trekking expeditions, especially for youngsters, the Chief Minister said such events infuse fresh energy and unique experience amongst the youth, besides strengthening bonds of communal harmony and brotherhood which have a lasting effect on the minds of youth. He called upon the trekkers to carry social message and take care of environment cleanliness along the expedition routes.  
Appreciating the role of Youth Hostel Association of India for organizing the expedition, the Chief Minister called for organizing such events on a regular basis so that new vistas of tourism and heritage could be explored to attract more visitors in the State, which besides raising economy would also help in providing employment to local youth.
Expressing optimism about prevailing congenial atmosphere in the State, the Chief underlined the need of exploring and encouraging trekking in potential areas including Kashmir and devise measures to hold such expeditions of trekkers wherein trekkers from Kashmir should reach Jammu and vice-versa to create better understanding about the culture and heritage of our State.
Mr. Abdullah assured all possible help from the State government in carrying forward the activities of YHAI in the State. 
The Chief Minister also received “Nehru Youth Award” from National President, YHAI, Mr. M. S. Pandit on the occasion. 
Giving details of various activities being conducted by YHAI, Mr. Pandit said the Association has come of age as it has completed 100 years of its existence and its network is spread over 80 countries where young tourists could avail accommodation and other related facilities at reasonable rates.
He said the present expedition with its base camp at Udhampur would provide a change to the young adventurists to trek through some of the most scenic and beautiful places of Jammu region. He said the seven-day trek touches unique heritage sites, crystal-clear water springs, lofty mountains, thick deodar forests and green meadows. He said trekkers would also be imparted general knowledge about geography, archaeology, flora and fauna and environment of the area. The activities would also be extended to other parts of the State, Mr. Pandit added.
Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, Mr. Ajay Khajuria, while speaking on the occasion, said the district has vast potential for carrying out tourism-related activities. He hoped that with the start of heritage trek expedition in the district for the second consecutive time, further boost to trekking would be given and trekkers from outside the State would reach here to participate in such expeditions.
State Chairman, YHAI, Satpal Verma, said about 39 km expedition in the district starting from Panchari to Mantali would cover beautiful natural site including Shankri Devta, Nathtop, Patnitop, Gourikund and Sudhmahadev areas.
MLA, Udhampur, Mr. Balwant Singh Mankotia, MLA, Chenani, Mr. K.C. Bhagat, IGP, SKPA, Mr. Navin Agarwal, DIG Udhampur-Reasi Range, Mr. Gulzar Singh Slathia, DIG BSF, senior officers of Army, Air Force, District Administration, Project Director, YHAI, K.K. Gandotra, prominent citizens and students were present on the occasion.

Three demo sanitation projects installed for houseboat owners

DAL CLEANING: Vice Chairman, J&K Lakes and Waterways Development Authority (LAWDA), Mr. Irfan Yasin has said that in order to keep Dal lake clean, all the houseboat owners have been directed to make proper sanitation arrangements for which three pilot sanitation systems have been installed for demonstration. Slubh International has offered low-cost sanitation systems for houseboats as well as Dal dwellers living in the lake, the Vice Chairman added.
Mr. Yasin said the government has banned further registration of houseboats and added the number of houseboats in the lake has gone down. He said LAWDA regularly carries out dwelling operations in the lake both manually as well as mechanically and about 70,000 cubic millimetre of wet weed was removed from the lake, out of which 45,000 cubic millimetre were removed manually during 2008. The spring operation for removal of weeds during 2009 has been started in May 2009 and is currently on.
The Vice Chairman said the water chemistry of the lake is regularly being monitored by the Research & Monitoring Wing of the Authority as well as the State Pollution Control Board and no presence of high-level heavy metals in the lake waters has been reported so far.

Amarnathji Yatra rescheduled to 15th June

Track clearance hampered due to intermittent/uncertain weather and slower snow-melting
In view of the accumulated heavy snow at various stretches of the Chandanwari-Holy Cave track, this year’s Shri Amarnathji Yatra has been rescheduled to commence from Monday, 15th June 2009, against the earlier schedule of 7th June.
A Spokesperson of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) today said that the Governor, Mr. N. N. Vohra, who is the Chairman of the Shrine Board, took this decision after undertaking an aerial survey on 24th May to personally assess the to-date situation on both the routes and at the Base Camps and after procuring inputs from all concerned agencies about the status of track clearance on both the axis of Pahalgam and Baltal. The Governor had undertaken aerial surveys of the tracks earlier also, on 6th and 8th May, to assess the situation before the earlier schedule of 7th June was finalized.
As a result of the intermittent rains and fresh snow falls on the ridges, especially in the areas adjoining the Holy Cave, Panchtarni, Sheshnag and Mahagunas Top, the pace of snow melting has been retarded this year. Consequently, the work on the clearance of tracks, particularly between Pissu Top and Holy Cave, has been hampered and delayed. The Mahagunas Top continues to be under six to eight feet snow cover and the Sheshnag Lake is still frozen. While the Pahalgam route up to Pissu Top has been made functional, the track on the Baltal side has been cleared almost up to Sangam.
To make up for the time lost due to the inclement weather, the efforts to conclude the work on the Pahalgam route have been further stepped up. On the basis of assessments made in the past two days, in consultation with various concerned authorities, it is expected that the ongoing work would be completed only around 3rd – 4th June 2009.
The Spokesperson elaborated that the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA), which is entrusted with the responsibility of clearing the track from Chandanwari to the Holy Cave, is making all possible efforts to make the track fully functional on the most urgent basis. The SASB, which has the responsibility of clearing the track between Baltal and the Holy Cave, has taken elaborate measures to secure the targeted results. The Spokesperson further clarified that to sanitize the entire Yatra area, the Security Forces are required to be deployed and be able to take positions at their designated stations at least a fortnight before the commencement of the Yatra. Because of the weather and heavy unmelted snow ridges the Security Forces have not been able to cover both sides of the track and reach the Holy Cave to establish their camps at various points. He said that the CRPF personnel, deployed on the Yatra duty at the Holy Cave, were presently camping at Baltal as the movement of personnel and stores has been delayed due to bad weather and non-clearance of the track.
The Spokesperson clarified that the Amarnath Yatra is contingent upon a number of factors such as the timely opening of the traditional route from Chandanwari to the Holy Cave alongside the opening up of the Baltal-Holy Cave route; prior positioning of the Security Forces, the Yatra–related staff of the Board and the staff of the various concerned Government agencies; provision of identified facilities at various locations and, above all, the satisfactory clearance of both the tracks for ensuring the safe and secure passage of the pilgrims. 
The Spokesperson also noted that the obtaining law and order situation in Punjab, particularly in regard to the mobilization of free langars, has been yet another unforeseen factor, particularly as dozens of trains passing through Jalandher have been cancelled or deferred. Keeping in view an on-the-ground assessment of all the above aspects, the Board has been left with no choice except to reschedule the Yatra from 7th June to 15th June 2009. This decision, he said, has been taken in the larger interests of the Yatris, who throng from various parts of the country and abroad to undertake an arduous journey, on either of both the difficult tracks, to pay obeisance at the Himalayan Holy Cave of Lord Shiva.  
The Spokesperson has advised the intending Yatris to finalize their travel arrangements as per the new schedule of the Yatra. As it is the Board’s responsibility to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims, no one will be allowed to proceed on the tracks to the Holy Cave before the rescheduled date, by which time all necessary facilities would have been put in place and the Security Forces would have moved to their designated positions.
It may be recalled that while finalising the details of the helicopter services on the Baltal-Holy Cave and Srinagar-Holy Cave routes, the helicopter operators were asked by the Board to make advance booking only from the 17th June, 2009. The Spokesperson observed that all intending pilgrims who wished to avail of the services of helicopters to undertake the journey to the Holy Cave, may proceed to secure advance bookings on or before 17th June from either of the two operators viz M/S Himalayan Heli Services and M/S Deccan Charter Services Pvt. Ltd.  
The Spokesperson further said that the Jammu and Kashmir Bank is being asked to register the intending pilgrims as per the revised schedule of the commencement of the Yatra, from 15th June. While recognizing that the inconvenience caused to such of the pilgrims who have already got themselves registered with the designated branches of the Jammu and Kashmir Bank or on-line for coming the Yatra on any day during 7th June-14th June, the Spokesperson advised the Yatris to timely reschedule their travel arrangements. For this purpose they may please approach the concerned branch of the J&K Bank who would assist in getting them registered afresh for dates within the revised Yatra schedule, as per their convenience. Persons faced with any difficulty may use the Board’s Helpline: 9419024747 (Mobile) and e-mail ceo@shriamarnathjishrine.com
In view of the re-schedulement of the Yatra, the SASB has requested the Voluntary/Charitable Organisations, who have been permitted by the Board to set up Langars, to reach the Base Camps by 9th June, 2009 so that they can commence their onward movement, to various locations on both the tracks, by 10th June, 2009. The Board has appealed to all concerned voluntary organisations, which have been permitted to establish identified facilities, to see that all the authorized Langars are in place, at all the identified locations, by 12th June, 2009.

CM reduces timeframe of power projects by 1 year

Indigenous power generation prime focus of government 
Pinpointing indigenous power generation as the prime focus of his government, Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah has asked Power Development Department (PDD) to reduce timeframe for completion of all ongoing projects by one year so that gap between availability and requirement of electricity is reduced in the State. He said government would provide funds and other logistical support to the department for completing these projects one year ahead of their scheduled dates of completion.
The Chief Minister was speaking while taking a review of Power Development Department at a high-level meeting, here today.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary, Mr. S. S. Kapur, Financial Commissioner, Planning and Development, Mr. S. L. Bhat, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Commissioner/Secretary, Finance, Mr. Sudhanshu Pandey, Commissioner/Secretary, PDD, Mr. Sandeep Naik, Managing Director, PDD, Mr. Bipul Pathak, Development Commissioner, Power, Mr. Altaf Ahmad and various Chief Engineers of the department.
Calling for utilizing non-conventional power generation mechanism to add to production capacity, Mr. Abdullah said possibilities for liquid fuel thermal power generation and pithead coal-based thermal generation should also be explored. “Power generation by utilizing biomass is gaining global popularity nowadays”, he said and instructed PDD authorities to focus on this area as the State is rich in biomass resources.
Mr. Abdullah said that power is the crucial sector governing economic growth and industrial development besides catering to the domestic and commercial electric needs. “A comprehensive policy to catapult this sector is important for all-round development”, he asserted.
Chief Minister told PDD officers to gear up the department at all levels and deliver on-ground by way of completing power generation projects under implementation ahead of time ensuring self-reliance in this core sector. This, he said, can be achieved by reducing target period for completion of ongoing projects, bringing down transmission losses, curbing thefts, improving distribution system and bringing about reforms in the power sector. 
Mr. Omar said regular and uninterrupted power supply to consumers should be the fundamental objective of the department, adding that people were ready to pay tariff. He said reforms in the distribution and generation of power supply are must to generate and supply adequate electricity to the people.
Commissioner/Secretary, PPD, Mr. Sandeep Naik, in a power-point presentation, gave details of various activities of the department in the field of generation, transmission, distribution and maintenance of power system in the State.
It was stated in the meeting that 10 major power projects are in the offing to generate 5,830 MWs by 2016 in the State. These include Rs. 700-crore 93 MW New Ganderbal, Rs. 1,900-crore 240 MW Karthai-I, Rs. 6,000 crore 1000 MW Karthai-II, Rs. 4,500-crore 690 MW Ratle, Rs. 250-crore 37.5 MW Parnai, Rs. 8,000-crore 1,200 MW Sawalkote, Rs. 3,000-crore 450 MW Baglihar-II and Rs. 13,000-crore three other power projects. The targeted dates for completion of these projects range from 2011 to 2016.
The Chief Minister was also briefed about the geothermal power generation, small hydro-projects and power projects under Prime Minister’s Reconstruction Plan (PMRP), Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyuti Karan Yojana (RGGVKY), strengthening of transmission system including construction of grid stations, receiving stations and substations in the State.
The meeting was informed that under PMRP power sector, for which Rs.14,000 crore have been earmarked, four hydro-electric power projects of 240 MW Uri-II, 120 MW SEWA-II, 45 MW Nemo Bazgo and 44 MW Chutak were under execution in the State which are likely to be completed by 2012.

Conference on higher education begins at Srinagar

A 2-day Conference on “Higher Education in Changing Scenario-Challenges and Prospects” took off at Government College for Women, M.A. Road, Srinagar today. The conference is sponsored by Kashmir University and organized by the Women’s College.
The Conference was inaugurated by Vice Chancellor, Kashmir University, Prof. Riyaz Punjabi. Former Vice Chancellors of University of Karnataka and Orissa, College Principal Mr. Zeenat Ara, all Principals of Valley Colleges, its Faculty members and a sizeable number of students attended the Conference.
In his inaugural address, Prof Riyaz Punjabi emphasized the need for further improving and strengthening the basic infrastructure in all the educational institutions for achieving quality education which could enable the students compete at the national level. He said the institutions of higher education hold a pivotal position and contribute in a big way in overall progress of any society and is treated governing factor for making the best use of its human as well as physical resources. He said that Government has to equip the teaching staff from primary to varsity level to obtain better educational results.
Expressing concern over poor performance of students in mathematics and science subjects, Prof. Punjabi said that until all facilities are made available to the students, no headway can be achieved. He said that education should not be achieved for earning money only, but should be used as a beacon light for others. He said new subjects have been introduced recently in the University which should broad base the higher education spectrum. He urged the management of private institutions to pay due attention towards the science and technology in their institutions for achieving better results in the educational field.

85 budding scientists presented Science Talent Awards

J&K State Council for Science and Technology, Department of Science and Technology organized science talent promotion scholarship distribution ceremony at SKICC, Srinagar here the other day. Science talent promotion scholarships are awarded to the students for encouraging them to pursue science subjects at higher levels. The students are selected through an objective type written test conducted by Science and Technology Council. The scholarships were distributed to 10+2, +12 and PG level students. The certificates were distributed to 85 select students by Dr. Arun Kumar, principal Secretary to Government, Science and Technology department. 
Dr. Arun Kumar, Principal Secretary to Government, Science and Technology was the chief guest on the occasion. Professor (Dr.) Abdul Hamid Zargar, Director, SK Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura was also present.
Dr. Arun Kumar while congratulating the students, stressed for inculcating scientific temperament among the students. He said that science involves systematic and organized enquiry into the natural world and its phenomenon which in turn promotes new and innovative ideas by involving young minds. He advised the parents to provide all kind of support to their children for choosing a career option of their own interest.
Dr. Arun Kumar requested the parents not to force the children for opting a field not of their choice. He briefed the gathering about the career option beyond conventional streams of engineering and medical science like bio-medical engineering, genetic engineering, bio-informatics etc. He asked the students to develop a questioning attitude which will inculcate in them a culture of inquisitiveness.
Prof. Zargar, on this occasion, emphasized that there is no boundary for science. “Science is a quest of knowledge and needs to be followed with dedication and zeal”. Dr. Zargar advised the students to develop innovative attitude.

Affordable treatment by quality doctors on anvil: Omar

Constitutes Committee for strengthening State’s premier health institution

Close on the heels of urging non-resident doctors of the State to return home and improve quality of health services in the State, Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah Monday said measures are afoot to upgrade health institutions manned by expert doctors to make treatment more affordable for the people. He said SKIMS’ original mandate as super-specialty and referral institution can be restored only when the primary and secondary health institutions in the State are strengthened to cater to the needs of patients.

The Chief Minister said the government would upgrade SKIMS on priority and simplify procurement rules so that it improves its infrastructure, machinery, equipment and manpower. He said SKIMS should work only as a tertiary hospital and take steps so that load on it is progressively reduced.
Chairing the 32nd Governing Body Meeting of Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) here at SKICC today, Mr. Abdullah said the prime concern of the government is to provide quality and affordable medical treatment to the people in the State. “Our effort is to equip districts and sub-district hospitals and primary health centres in the State with modern equipment, manned by competent and expert doctors”, he said, adding measures in this direction were already afoot.
The meeting was attended by Minister for Finance, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather, Chief Secretary, Mr. S. S. Kapur, Financial Commissioner, Planning and Development, Mr. S. L. Bhat, Commissioner/Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Mr. Atal Dulloo, Commissioner/Secretary, Finance, Mr. Shudanshu Pandey, Director, SKIMS, Prof. Abdul Hamid Zargar, Principal, Government Medical College, Jammu, Principal, Medical College, Srinagar, Dr. G. Q. Allaqband, Dr. Mehraj-ud-Din and Dean Medical Facility, SKIMS.
Underlining the importance of bringing transparency in purchase of medicines, equipment and other consumable items for the hospitals, Chief Minister said a comprehensive view involving expert opinion and the requirement for particular item need to be taken into consideration. “There should be transparency and accountability in purchase of drugs and equipment for government hospitals”, Chief Minister asserted.
Calling for up-gradation of super-specialty disciplines in SKIMS, Mr. Abdullah stressed on prioritizing infrastructure development accordingly, adding construction work for most-needed blocks should get preference.
Mr. Abdullah directed Director SKIMS to take measures for keeping ECG equipment at every ward and at least one X-ray equipment at every floor so that patients were not put to inconvenience on this count. He also asked for keeping medicines available to the patients in SKIMS-run fair price outlets. He also emphasized the need for upgrading all paramedical facilities in the hospital.
Chief Minister also constituted a Committee, headed by Financial Commissioner, Planning, to work out suggestions for strengthening premier health institution of the State, besides looking for any purposeful and efficient consultancy required to develop modern faculties and super-specialty units in the institution.
The Governing Body, besides discussing follow up action taken on the decisions of its 31st meeting, also reviewed the progress of SKIMS Medical College, up-gradation of various faculties under Prime Minister’s Reconstruction Plan, creation of Advance Genetic Unit and Tele-medicine facilities in the institute.
Director, SKIMS gave a power-point presentation of the functioning of the medical institution, explaining various aspects of its rapid growth and futuristic plans to develop it further.

J&K needs expert docs, access to newer technologies

Minister for Health, Horticulture and Floriculture, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma has said that more needs to be done to improve infrastructure and manpower in rural areas and added that the government is working on a well-knit long-term policy to ensure quality healthcare services for the people of the State. 
Favouring private investment in health sector, the Minister said public-private partnership is the need of the hour as our State needs access to newer technologies and super-specialist doctors to treat patients. 
The Minister said this while addressing the concluding session of the two-day Consultative Workshop on accelerating improvements in Public Private Partnership (PPP), organized by Health and Medical Education Department at SKICC, here today.
Reiterating his resolve in providing better medicare facilities to the people, he said focused attention would be accorded to the health sector so that people are not deprived of this fundamental amenity.
Underlying the need for an attitudinal change in the mindset of the doctors and paramedics, Mr. Sham Lal said a complete missionary zeal is required which can help in improving the healthcare system on-ground. 
Expressing concern over commercialization of health sector in the State, the Minister said that serving patients should be the priority of the doctors rather than making money. “A new direction and better working environment is required that suits both doctors and patients especially at primary and secondary level health institutions and we are working to achieve exactly that,” the Minister said, adding there is no dearth of good doctors in the State.
Once again emphasizing his stress on discouraging referral system, Mr. Sham Lal said adequate transparency has been established to arrest rush of patients at tertiary care centres. “Adequate facilities are available at PHCs and district hospitals. A strict monitoring is required to curb needless referrals to avoid responsibility”, the Minister asserted.
Expressing gratitude to the visiting faculties for coming over to the State for the workshop, Mr. Sharma said their valuable views and roadmap would be implemented and used as a guiding force for improving healthcare system in the State. He thanked all the participants on behalf of the government and sought their continuous support and cooperation for making further improvements in delivery mechanism in the health sector. 
He also conveyed his thanks to Founder Director, SKIMS, Dr. A. K. Nagpal, Principal Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Government of Gujarat, Dr. Amarjeet Singh and eminent Professor and Medical Superintendent, AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr. Shakti Gupta for sparing their valuable time and gracing this important event. He also gave mementoes to the experts.
Earlier, the visiting dignitaries gave power-point presentations on their works in the field of medicare and public-private partnership and held wide ranging discussions on the subject. They suggested various measures for improving the existing medicare facilities in the State, which includes involvement of “Triple P”. They appreciated the initiatives and keenness of the government in this direction.
The experts also answered queries of the participants pertaining to healthcare sector. All senior officers and doctors including Commissioner/Secretary, Health & Medical Education, Mr. Atal Dulloo were present on the occasion.
Director, Family Welfare, Dr. Kulbushan Pandotra thanked the gathering for making the workshop a success.