To ensure durability and check early damages caused to the roads, particularly, in snow prone areas of the state, Soil Stablization Method on the pattern of European technology would be introduced for macadamizing roads, which would not only increase life cycle of the roads but also save Rs. 5 to 6 lacs per Km aproximately.
This information was given to the Minister for R&B, G.M Saroori while inspecting Hunjak-Durbal link road near Diyar Kadal in Budgam district where the technology has been first time applied on experimental basis.
Minister of State for R&B, Javaid Ahmad Dar, Commissioner Secretary, R&B, Mehboob Iqbal, and senior engineers of R&B Department were present on the occasion.
Saroori said that the technology would create new avenues for the engineering sector, adding that money thus saved would be utilized for creation of other infrastructure facilities.
“I am hopeful for good and positive results, once the technology is tested successfully, it would save several crore rupees which could be diverted to other developmental projects” Saroori added. He asked the engineers to monitor this road and prepare its feedback regularly particularly during the post snow period.
The Minister said that snow is causing major damage to the roads, adding that the road damage could be checked to a large extent by adopting this technology.
*20 colonies of bees have been established in Gurez
*Around 400 kilos of honey was harvested from them
*250 hectares are under potato seed tuber cultivation
*Another 320 hectares are under potato cultivation under BADP
* The average yield ranges from 10-12 quintals per kanal.
*In 40 kanals Ismarg farm, 429 quintals of potatoes were produced
*1069 hectares are cultivable are in Gurez out of which 528 hectares are irrigated
Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Hassan Mir who was on a visit to Gurez and Tulail vallies has directed the officers of Agriculture and allied departments to look into the possibilities of growing mushroom, honey, cocoon, zeera and other cash crops. This he said while interacting with local farmers and officers of these departments.
Mir was told that the place is ideal for growing cash crops and medicinal plants.
The Minister underscored the need for growing cash crops in view of the limited agricultural season and limited irrigated area.
He said he would direct the Sericulture department. to distribute shahtoosh saplings among farmers of the area. He announced that if any farmer wishes to plant 300 or more plants, entire saplings would be given free to him plus a cash incentive of Rs. 2200. He said this year cocoon produce received a good market support with per kilo cost ranging upto Rs. 490. He said additionally the Govt. would provide necessary infrastructure support including tin sheets for processing cocoons.
The Minister was told that 20 colonies of bees have been established in Gurez and around 400 kilos of honey was harvested from them.
During his visit to Ismarg, Bugtor, Budugam, Dawar, the Minister was apprised about the agricultural activities in these areas. He was told that varieties like Kufri, Gulmarg, Badshah, and Chipsona (grown to produce potatoes for waffers exclusively) are grown here.
The Minister was told that cultivation of potatoes and maize are the major agricultural activities in the area. The Minister directed distribution of green houses among farmers from this on priority so that they can extend their agricultural activities beyond the present schedule.
Pertinently, 250 hectares are under potato seed tuber cultivation and another 320 hectares are under potato cultivation under Border Area Development Programme. The average yield ranges from 10-12 quintals per kanal. In the Ismarg farm alone spread over 40 kanals, 429 quintals of potatoes were produced last year.
1069 hectares are cultivable are in Gurez out of which 528 hectares are irrigated and rest is rainfed. The Minister during his visit also took an assessment of losses to crops due to drought like situation prevailing during this summer.
Minister of State, Javid Ahmad Dar, MLA, Nazir Gurezi, Principal Secretary, Agriculture, Mrs. Sonali Kumar, Director Agriculture, Mr. B. A. Dar, Joint Director, Mr. I. B. Bhat and other officers accompanied the Minister during his visit.
*Omar, Azad inaugurate 4-day Mega exhibition at Kashmir Haat
*AYUSH, Handicrafts, Information, ISM, FICCI jointly organize magnificent expo
* Thousands of personalities from Commerce, Industries, Medical, Unani fields attended the exhibition
*There are 7 lakh AYUSH practitioners, 3000 hospitals, 21000 dispensaries and 450 undergraduate and postgraduate colleges all over the country including 4000 practitioners in Jammu and Kashmir and the Centre incurs about Rs. 340 crore annually to run these.
*These initiatives will help to produce 18000 specialist doctors instead of existing 13000 specialists annually.
*Government has decided to grace 10 percent marks in pursuing MD and MS degrees to those medicos who would serve at least for one year in far-flung and inaccessible areas of the State.
*The grace marks would be 20 percent and 30 percent for serving for two or three years respectively in remote areas.
Declaring New Year as the year of popularizing Unani medicines all over the country, the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Ghulam Nabi Azad today announced to set up a state-of-art UnaniMedicalCollegeKashmir. He said there is an urgent need to focus on promotion of traditional modes of treatment like Ayurveda, Unani, Sidha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) as 60 percent population in India use Ayurvedic medicines adding that the demand for these medicines is increasing even at international level where 40 percent people use these medicines for treatment of various ailments. He said health conscious people prefer alternate medicines free from side effects. in
The Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah and Union Health Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad immediately after inauguration visited all stalls of FICCI, ISM, AYUSH, Handicrafts and Information Departments. They appreciated the rare projections of various departments made in their respective stalls. AYUSH and ISM had also exhibited various Unani and Aromatic plants, which have great potential of growth in the valley of Kashmir. The Handicrafts Department also projected rare handicraft items through their various stalls. The distinguished artists of cultural wing of Information Department presented sacred kalam of Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA) in the central pavilion where exhibition wing of the department had projected rare and historical photographs of the J&K state.
The Chief Minister and the Union Minister appreciated the AYUSH, Handicraft, Information, ISM and FICCI for organizing such a magnificent exhibition, where thousands of people have started taking interest from the time of inauguration which indicates that 4-days, exhibition will be the most successful exhibition of the state.
Speaking at a function after inaugurating 4-day first of its kind national exhibition-cum-sale of herbal medicines “Arogya” at Srinagar, along with Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand, Azad said keeping in view the great demand and acceptability of herbal medicines, the Centre has launched a National Mission for medicinal plants, adding that a whooping sum of Rs. 630 crore is being spent for this purpose during the 11th Five Year Plan. The Mission envisages promotion of cultivation of medicinal plants for pharmaceutical industry on a very intensive scale with appropriate pre and post harvest- management interventions, besides ensuring remunerative prices to the growers. He advised the people especially of Kandi belts to opt for cultivation of medicinal plants.
The exhibition “Arogya” third in the row in the country has jointly been organized by the Department of AYUSH, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, FICCI and the Department of Indian System of Medicines, Jammu and Kashmir.
Azad while deliberating on blue print to promote alternate medical treatment and provide these facilities to the people at their doorstep has decided to provide AYUSH doctors at village, block, tehsil and district levels alongwith the allopathic health institutions all over the State. He said at present there are 7 lakh AYUSH practitioners, 3000 hospitals, 21000 dispensaries and 450 undergraduate and postgraduate colleges all over the country including 4000 practitioners in Jammu and Kashmir and the Centre incurs about Rs. 340 crore annually to run these. He said Centre as a short term measure to cope up with the shortage of staff in health institutions, has launched an ambitious countrywide flagship programme. “National Rural and Urban Health Mission” (NHRUM) adding that about 60000 doctors have been engaged on contractual basis under the programme all over the country so far and the process would continue.
He said that as a medium term measure to make up for shortage of specialist doctors in the health institutions, his Ministry during last three months has launched a multi-pronged strategy by bringing some required amendments and regulations in the present laws. These initiatives will help to produce 18000 specialist doctors instead of existing 13000 specialists annually adding that opening of private medical colleges in North-East and mountainous regions of India, where there are only 20 percent medical colleges as against 80 percent private medical colleges in other parts of the country, through Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) would be encouraged in a big was to produce more doctors to meet their requirement in health institutions. He said procedures for opening private medical colleges have been simplified for the purpose. For this purpose, laws have been amended by virtue of which now only 20 acres of land that too in parts within the radius of 10 kms, if needed, would be required against earlier 25 acres of land. He said in a historic decision, the government has decided grace 10 percent marks in pursuing MD and MS degrees to those medicos who would serve at least for one year in far-flung and inaccessible areas of the State. The grace marks would be 20 percent and 30 percent for serving for two or three years respectively in remote areas.
Azad lauded the ISM doctors for serving the people with dedication, commitment and courage in far-flung and inaccessible areas particularly during the period of natural calamity, be it in earthquake-hit Gurez or elsewhere. He announced that his Ministry would present Gold Medals to such dedicated ISM doctors.
Apart from a galaxy of research scholars, medicos and senior officers of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Minister for Medical Education, R.S Chib, Minister for Health, Sham Lal Sharma, Minister for R&B, G.M Saroori, Minister of State for Fisheries, Hajj and Auqaf, Ajaz Ahmad Khan, Minister of State for Power, Shabir Ahmad Khan, Member Parliament, Sharief-ud-Din Shariq, legislators, President, Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FICCI), Rajan Kohli, Joint Secretary, Department of AYUSH, Government of India, B. Anand, Financial Commissioner, Home, Sameul Vergees, Principal Secretary Agriculture, Sonali Kumar, Commissioner Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Atul Dulloo, Secretary Revenue, Ajaz Iqbal, Director, SKIMS, Dr. Abdul Hamid Zargar, Director Information, Khawja Farooq Ahmad Renzu, Director Handicrafts, Showkat Ahmad Zargar, Director Indian System of Medicines, Dr. Kabir and Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo were also present.
Efforts being made at the national and International level need to be emulated for the use and promotion of Geoinformation Technology (Geo-IT) at Panchayat level in the state of Jammu and Kashmir to push forward the decentralization process with greater pace, said Prof. Riyaz Punjabi, while addressing the meeting of the Action Group on Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) constituted at the University of Kashmir.
He emphasised the need to generate value added products that are interesting enough for the consumers outside the scientific community. He however said that the basic problem is how the present set up can cope with the requirement of Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI), where data needs to be updated on real time basis and appropriate analytic tools need to be adopted. He announced that the University is planning on initiating a human and institutional capacity building program so that the use of Geospatial Planning emerges as a powerful paradigm for decision makers and Panchayat level functionaries and development planners at all levels in the state. Prof. Punjabi said that the Geographic Information System (GIS) is making life different in many areas of our activities and government functioning shall derive greater benefit of this Technology and improve their effectiveness and efficacy in the delivery mechanisms. The Action Group has membership from the Academia, Government and the civil society. Dr. Shakil A Romshoo, Convenor of the Action Group gave a detailed presentation on the case studies carried out at the University on the use of Geoinformation Technology for Rural Development, Master Planning for tourist Development Authorities, land suitability analysis and Water resources assessment. He showcased a few studies that demonstrated how the integration of data from various sources shall improve the planning and decision making process in the state. The members deliberated threadbare on strategies to promote the use of Geoinformation Technology in different government Departments of the State. The meeting was attended among others by Prof. S. Fayaz Ahmad, Registrar, Umong Narula, Commissioner/Secretary, Rural Development, Shabnam Kamili, DY. Secretary (GAD), Prof. Noor Ahmad Baba, Prof. B.L Zutshi, Shakeel Qalander, Ishfaq Mir, Dr. Anwar Hassan and Dr. Shameem Ahmad Shah faculty department of geography KU.
Contact ajmeralam2000@gmail.com or dial 9906103001
* The girl in her late teens, fought militants and saved her family
* People now see her as a fighter against the atrocities of militants
* She is besieged by television reporters asking her how she did it
* The girl exhibited rare bravery and deserves all praise
* Governor lauded the exemplary courage/ bravery of fearless girl
* Governor has asked for a formal report from DGP so that he can recommend the girl for a gallantry award
* Governor also intends to invite this brave girl to the Raj Bhavan to honour her
(Rukhsana Kausar with mother Rashida)
She is now a star of bravery. Her immensely brave act has turned young Rukhsana Kausar into a heroine and people now see her as a fighter against the “zulm” or atrocities of militants. She had taken on a group of Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists who barged into her house late Sunday night, snatched an AK-47 from one intruder and shot him dead.
Rukhsana is full of smiles at her house in Upper Kalsi in Shahdhara Sharief of Rajouri district, as she is besieged by television reporters asking her how she did it.
Posing with the AK-47 that she grabbed from the militants, she recounts for the umpteenth time how she shot dead LeT terrorist Abu Osama in her house up in the hills, while the locals cheer her.
The girl, in her late teens, fought militants and saved her family, especially her parents.
When the terrorists barged into her house late Sunday night, Rukhsana might have been provoked by the terror unleashed by the ultras on her parents – Noor Hussain and Rashida, and by a premonition that her own dignity was in danger. But what she did was an act of supreme bravery.
“One thing is for sure that the girl exhibited rare bravery, and she deserves all praise for it,” Superintendent of Police, Rajouri, Shafkat Watali said. “This is a clear manifestation that the people are willing to fight back militants. They are sick of the atrocities of militants.”
Rukhsana is aware that the new spotlight has come on her after she shot the militant with his own gun.
“I knew that they were up to something, and saw them trying to do something terribly wrong with my daddy,” Rukhsana said, brimming with anger. “I snatched the gun by pulling his hair and then opened fire on him.”
This act of the girl is being termed as a fight against “zulm” by the locals – who feel this would begin a new chapter in the anti-militancy feelings of the people.
“Now, we feel that militants are not invincible. They can be overpowered and killed,” said Showkat Hussain, a villager who had come to see Rukhsana from Darhal, about 30 km from here.
The villagers, some of whom have dish antenna fixed on their houses, have seen Rukhsana on their TV sets. Many others came to see the new brave girl of the area.
“She is another Sher bibi,” say people, referring to a legendary Gujjar woman who used to venture into the jungles in Banihal area, where lions used to roam many decades ago.
After Rukhsana shot dead one terrorist, the other ultras ran away, including one who was injured.
The family members handed over to the police two AK-47 rifles which they had snatched from the terrorists.
Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N Vohra has lauded the exemplary courage and bravery of the fearless young girl.
“The governor has asked for a formal report from the Director General of Police so that he can recommend the young girl for a gallantry award,” an official release said.
“The governor also intends to invite this brave girl to the Raj Bhavan to honour her,” the statement said.
*Minister for promoting horticulture sector on modern lines *Sector has tremendous scope *Helped to keep the economy of the state alive *Fruit mandi at Chrar-i-Sharief inaugurated *Fire station would be constructed
The Jammu and Kashmir Horticulture sector would be promoted on modern lines and adequate funds provided to give major boost to the state economy, This was stated by Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs Abdul Rahim Rather adding that the sector has tremendous scope and has helped to keep the economy of the state alive even during odd times. The Minister accompanied by Minister for Health, Horticulture and Floriculture, Sham Lal Sharma today inaugurated fruit mandi at Chrar-i-Sharief spread over 48 kanals of land. The Minister said that almost every soul in the area is connected with the industry and the mandi would provide better facility to the fruit growers to supply their fruit to other mandis of the state and outside. He said that the establishment of mandi at Chrar-i-Sharief was his cherished dream, which has come true today. Rather said although there was the resource constraint but the government has approached to NABARD for providing assistance so that the major sectors including horticulture sector of the state is developed. He said that another 20 kanals of land would be arranged for the mandi to make it one of the biggest mandis of the state where lot of fruit could be stored for supply to other states. He said besides this a banking facilities for the growers and dealers would also be provided at the site. Referring to the storage facilities, the Minister said that Control Atmosphere Store (CAS) would also be provided to all the mandis so that the fruit is preserved for longer times and its flavour maintained. The Minister said that the government is open to private sector which can provide latest expertise and the youth coming forward to set up units for the purpose would be encouraged. Referring to the construction work going on at Khanka Chrar-i-Sharief, the Minister said that the works of the project would be expedited and completed soon. He said the mecadamization of all road links of the town which is underway would also be speeded up. He said that the tourist destination of Yousmarg would be developed with latest state- of- the art facilities and adding that for the beautification of the area planned infrastructure rather than haphazard construction are needed to make it a model tourist resort. Regarding the works taken up by the government in the area the Minister said that every thing could not be completed within just 7 months and said that pattern of NC and Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Farooq Abdullah has assured that a fire station would be constructed in the area and has announced an assistance of Rs 25 lakh. Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Health, Sham Lal Sharma said that the Centre has given liberal assistance for flagship programmes which includes horticulture technology mission. He said the state has suffered a lot during the last 20 years of militancy and the time has come to restore the original shape of sector and give it new impetus. However, he said that there is dire need for setting up of cold storage facility centres in the state as these could preserve the fruit for longer times. He insisted for introducing multi-crop system in the state so that the farmers could get benefited more and thereby economy given more Philip. The Ministers later witnessed the draw of lots whereby shops were distributed among the people who had applied for constructing shops at the mandi. Among others the function was attended by Deputy Commissioner, Budgam, Rafiq Ahmad, Director, Horticulture, Planning and Marketing, A.R Kuchay, besides a large number of senior citizens of the area.
*Records of the corporation that were gutted in the fire incident of TRC in 2005 are being reconstructed and will be submitted to CAG and statutory auditors for verification.
* Managing Director requested for repatriation of 51 employees back to Tourism Department * Against catering charges of Rs 160 per person to private hoteliers, the Corporation is paid only Rs 140.
Minister for Tourism and Culture, who is also Chairman of JK TDC has stressed on improving services to the tourists at its all facilitation centers, adding better services will help the corporation to increase its clientele, making it more vibrant and profitable entity. Addressing the 39th Annual General Meeting of Share Holders of the corporation this afternoon here today, the Minister asked the functionaries to wear uniform and observe proper dress code. He impressed upon the employees to work with dedication to improve financial health of Corporation, reminding them about the benefits granted by the government. Commissioner/Secretary Finance Sudhsnashu Panday, Secretary Tourism & Culture, Tanveer Jehan, Managing Director of JKTDC, Mr. Satish Nehru were present on the occasion. Briefing the meeting, Nehru said that the provisional balance sheet for the year has shown a profit of Rs 46.03 lakh. He said that the accounts of the corporation for the last 14 years are in arrears, adding that the Corporation is taking up audit of the accounts from 1995-96 onwards. The Managing Director informed the meeting that records of the corporation that were gutted in the fire incident of TRC in 2005 are being reconstructed and will be submitted to CAG and statutory auditors for verification. He made a strong case for revision of tariff rate for corporation hotels and huts under the use of Estates Department. Nehru requested for bringing parity in catering service charges of the corporation with private hotels, adding as against catering charges of Rs 160 per person to private hoteliers, the Corporation is paid only Rs 140. The Managing Director requested for repatriation of 51 employees back to tourism department, stating that their deputation to the corporation results in annual expenditure of Rs one crore as salary-a proposal accepted in the meeting. Earlier, the share holders adopted balance sheet and profit and loss account for the year 1994-95.
*Youth in thousands will get jobs
*Rs. 8500 Cr private investment in J&K
*Taj Hotel will set up a Hotel Management Institute
*Tata Consultancy services to establish software centre
A group of the captains of various industrial houses met Chief Minister (CM) and committed to invest Rs 8500 crores in the sectors of Power, Road connectivity, Tourism, heavy Engineering, Agro Industries, Financial services etc. Welcoming the investors to launch their ventures in the State, Chief Minister said that government will provide every facility for the purpose. “The situation is conducive and stage set to invest in Jammu and Kashmir”, he said and added that launch of projects in the State would not only prove commercially beneficial for the industrialists but help the State to give fillip to the economic activities and create jobs for the youth in the private sector. “Ours is a hospitable area, people are enthusiastic and youth highly talented to make the ventures a success”, he said. The efforts of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to rope in big industrial houses to invest in the State for giving substantial boost to the economic activities and generating employment for thousands of the skilled and educated youth directly and indirectly, have started bearing fruits. Omar said that his government is keen to create the industrial temperament in the state and encourage private sector to a greater extent to bring about a revolution in the industrial sector. “You have to think positively and spend in Jammu and Kashmir in a big way”, he said and told the industrialists to help the Government in making Jammu and Kashmir a prominent centre of industrial activities. “Our agriculture and allied sectors promise greater opportunities for the industrialists to invest”, Omar said. The industrialists reposing faith in the able leadership of Omar Abdullah said that they are confident that their efforts for launching industrial projects in the State would yield positive results for the benefits of both the state and the investors. The Managing Director Taj Hotel Krishan Kumar promised that Taj Hotel will set up a hotel management Institute while as a software centre of Tata Consultancy services to develop projects for national and international markets will also be established in the State.
*JK Tourism has great potential to attract billions
Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Gh. Nabi Azad today stressed upon J&K Tourism Ministry to involve the private sector in big way to boost the tourism infrastructure in the State. He said this is the primary requirement for providing world class facilities to the tourists. Azad was speaking after inaugurating the Phase-II of Zabarwan Park at Belavourd Road, Srinagar in the presence of Minister for Tourism, Nawang Rigzin Jora and Minister of State for Tourism, Nasir Aslam Wani. Among others present on the occasion include, Minister for Education, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed, Minister for Forest, Mian Altaf Ahmed, Secretary Tourism, Director Tourism, Director Information, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, MD JKTDC, Tour Operators, Guides,House Boat owners and Traders. In Phase-II of Zabarwan Park the facilities provided include recreation hall comprising of Zabrwan indoor games zone for children, Faraaz Food Court and Ring Ceremony and kitty party hall. Besides Tulip museum and Heritage museum have also been set up in the park to provide a holistic view of Baghi-gul-e-lale situated in the lap of Zabarwan hills depicting rich heritage of Kashmir Valley. Referring to the contribution of the States which involve the private sector in a big way, Azad said “ If J&K has to revive its economy, we have to encourage them in every sector particularly in tourism as it is the back bone of our economy” . He said to achieve this goal Tourism department would have to act as a facilitators rather than a competitor. Azad said that God have bestowed J&K with natural resources and pristine beauty, but it is up to Tourism department, how aggressively it boosts the tourist destinations and spots of the State in the global tourism market to motivate the foreigners to visit the State. He asked the State Tourism Ministry to attend all the big events of tourism in the world as it would provide a big plate form to project the tourist destinations of the State by way of documentary films on tourism and exhibiting photographs of these destinations. Recalling his past experiences as a Union Tourism Minister during disturbance in Valley, Azad said that during this period when no one in the world wants to visit Kashmir, I project Ladakh a potential tourist destination during those days. He said this helped the region to emerge as a global tourism destination as thousand of foreigners are visiting this region and has changed the socio economic profile of the people of the area. For inclusive growth of the State Azad said Centre government is committed to boost this sector for which he said, 22 Tourism Development Authorities (TDA) have been set up across the State to make it a tourist circuit. He said Rs.20 Cr. for each TDA are being spent under Prime Minister’s Reconstruction Programme to provide better services and facilities to the tourists. He said these TDA would help to enhance carrying capacity of tourist destination with better facilities and also increase the staying period of tourists from 4 days to 20 days. He stressed upon the authorities to appoint those officers as Chief Executive Officers to Tourism Development Authorities who have Tourism Aptitude which will help to realize the dream. Minister for Tourism, Rigzin Jora said that collective efforts of every stake holders would help to make J&K world primer tourist destination. He said the department has already taken various initiatives to tap the vast culture, heritage, pristine tourist potential of the three regions of the State. He said by encouraging public private sector partnership will help to boost this sector in every area. Minister of State for Tourism, Nasir Aslam Wani said that under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah a comprehensive policy have been adopted to tap the tourist potential of the State for which various steps have already been taken. He said tourism is the only sector which provides succor to every sector of the society. He said while providing world class facilities to national and international tourists, the Tourism Department have taken initiatives to provide entertainment and other tourism related facilities for the locals also. He said by the dedication of Zabarwan Park Phase I and Phase II to the people will go a long way in this regard.
“Vision and Wonder” an Exhibition of 50 paintings and drawings a young painter Zarka Shabir was opened here at Tagore hall Srinagar by Naseema lanker, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir in presence of Zaffar Iqbal Khan, Secretary Academy. Noted artists intellectuals, dignitaries includes M.Y. Teing MLC and former Director General Culture, Shaiqa Mohi,(IMFA) Masood Hussain, M.A. Mehboob, Aftab Ahmad, Shafi Chaman, Iftikar Jaffar, Students of Institute of Music and Fine Arts are also present on the occasion. Zaraka Shabir, an artist of 16 year old brimming with enthusiasm and confidence. A girl who is both a avid and reader of books and also a firey debater. A girl who is sanitized who the problems effecting the world. A girl who find herself while strumming for guitar and last but not least budding artists who translates who sees around her into kaleidoscope of colours. Zarka shabir, student of Presentation Convent High School who through her painting gives us a peep in to the world as seen by a Kashmiri child. A child born in a period of conflict Zarkas hopes for a better world where despair and hopelessness are replaced by peace and harmony. Zarka Shabir’s, fairest exhibition has a ring of pain and pathos about it and it integrates the visual with the sentimental. Kashmir is passing through a period of uncommon turbulence and it is leaving scars both on body and mind. In one of the paintings, Zarka’s records a statement of macabre realty, “Do not tell my father that I have died and then he walked on the road full of blood”. In contemporary Kashmir roles have interchanged. The father has to wail and weep for his son, who represents his and his beautiful home lands future.
(Ajmer Alam Wani can be contacted at------- ajmeralam2000@gmail.com /Phone No- 9906103001)
Minister for Forest & Environment Mian Altaf Ahmed today conducted extensive tour to Ganderbal and Kangan areas in Sindh Forest Division and took stock of various developmental works proposed to be taken up during current financial year. The Minister visited the Vanaspati Van Society Project and Central Hi-tech Nursery at Malhar. The Minister was told that Nursery in Malhar is being extended during the current financial year. About 4 lakh conifers and about 2 lakh broad lived species . The Minister directed the concerned forest staff to concentrate on razing of conifers and their planting in under stocked forests. He was told that the funds under the Compa Scheme are likely to be released for the current financial year. The Minister gave direction for preparing comprehensive plan for protection and development of forests in Gotlibagh, Wangat, Naranag, Mamar and Rayul areas. The Minister was accompanied by Chief Conservator of Forest, Kashmir, Mr. Shafat Ahmed and other senior functionaries of Forest and Wild Life departments during the tour. The Minister directed the forest authorities to take effective measures to check degradation of forests for preserving ecology and environment in the State. He asked the Officers of Wild Life Department to formulate a comprehensive project for conservation breeding centre for Hungal at Dardurdri Mamar. The Minister inspected the under construction Inspection Hut at Naranag estimated to cost of Rs. 17 lakh. He directed the concerned agencies to speed up the pace of work and complete the building within the stipulate time. Mian Altaf also directed for fencing around the Hut. The Minister also inspected Hut at Thajwas. He was informed that the Hut is being constructed at a cost of Rs.16 lakh and is nearing completion.
The Gujjars of Jammu and Kashmir today extended an exclusive invitation to Congress general secretary and Lok Sabha MP from Amethi, Mr. Rahul Gandhi to visit State and to stay with them in their tribal huts and nomadic “Dharas”.The community in a letter sent through Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation a premier organization on Gujjars, invited Rahul to be a part of their toughest nomadic life for at least a day and a night. Giving details about the contents of the letter Dr. Javaid Rahi, National Secretary of Tribal foundation said “to feel the plight and dilemma of our tribal life which is identical to the life of Dalits in India, we urged Rahul to visit us. Dr. Rahi said our tribe is in trouble since last two decades of turmoil. No one visited us till date, he added. This is another unfortunate part of our life that we-the Muslim Gujjars are living a marginalized and stigmatized life since 1947 in this Muslim majority state, the letter said. “Our glorious tribal identity is facing a great threat of vanishing and our language-Gojri and Culture is the verge of extinction which needs a last look from you (Rahul)” the letter further revealed. The letter reminded Rahul that former Prime Ministers of India Mr.Jawahar Lal Nehru, and Smt Indera Gandhi had a strong footing in Gujjars in the state of Jammu and Kashmir but the links were breaked during last few decades which needs immediate revival. The letter further said that lakhs of nomadic Gujjars in J&K are landless , shalterless and lacking basic education, health , communication facilities and other enmities of life, that’s why they feel alienated and neglected. According to letter , due to heavy loss of precious lives and properties of Gujjars and Bakerwals during turmoil, and resections on nomadic movement in upper reaches of Himalayan region the Gujjars are facing a devastating impact on tribal life and economy of Gujjars resulting in recurrent declines in tribal migrations in the State of Jammu and Kashmir. The Scheduled Tribe Muslim Gujjars and Bakerwals which constitute around 20% of total population of State are mostly nomads and are practicing primitive cultural traits and migrating along with their livestock to upper reaches of Himalaya since time immemorial , through seven major tribal migration routes and are presently on upper reaches of Himalayas. It may take them as many as sixty days to reach these meadows. During the summer, they move from one meadow to the other. They generally travel in pairs but sometimes they may go alone or in larger groups. They are accompanied by their dogs, the famous bakarwal dogs, and their pack-animals. The Foundation said if Mr.Rahul Gandhi wants to visit us like he did on Wednesday the 24th of this month when he once again chose to spend the night at a remote village in district Shravasti in Utter Pardesh sharing meals with the Dalit villagers , we the Gujjars of Jammu and Kashmir are ready to be the host of Mr Gandhi. We are looking forward to offer him traditional Gujjar foods like “Maki Ki Roti” , Marchi, Makhan, Lassi , Kadan, Kalyadi,Chill,Chityal and others, Dr. Rahi said adding that Gujjars are traditionally vegetarians.
Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department today observed World Tourism Day to celebrate diversity, at a grand function organised by Institute of Hotel Management, Rajbagh here today. Minister for Tourism presided over the function. Addressing on the occasion, Mr Jora said that J& K state has plenty of diversity in terms of its geographical landscape and climate, art forms and culture, language and literature, offering distinct and diverse destinations unparalleled in the country. He said that the state with its composite culture, diverse people and their life styles give unique character to the tourism industry that has no match in the entire sub continent. Mr Jora said that tourism is a peace activity and every single tourist who visits the state impacts the livelihood of more than a dozen people. In this perspective, it is more important for the survival of tourism industry that peace prevails, he said while expressing satisfaction over the return of peace and tranquillity in the state over the years. He asked the tour and travel industry of the state to organize a peace march so that a message of peace in Kashmir circulates in the entire country. The Minister said that government is contemplating a well knit strategy for retaining the tourists for longer period of time in the state by offering multiple tourist spots and activities for which, he said tourism department would provide basic infrastructure and encourage people through incentives for contributing towards the cause. He said, “We have to be innovative, creative and have out of the box thinking especially at the planning and policy level so that true potential of the tourism industry is optimally harnessed”. He said the focus would be to retain lakhs of pilgrim tourists by offering them varied leisure tourism activities. Emphasising on quality services, the Minister said that tourists should be provided better facilities and made to feel at home. He urged the hoteliers and all others associated with tourism trade to strive for extending warm hospitability befitting international standards, adding the valley is famous for cordial hospitality. “We must act as a team, be proactive and ready to work in unison to serve the tourists”, he said. The Minister on this occasion announced that Pahalgam and Gulmarg will be provided with Wi-Fi technology for internet connectivity this year while the same facility will be extended to the Dal area next year. The Minister also interacted with representatives of travel and trade associations, during which they assured to improve facilities for the visiting tourists to their utmost satisfaction. They also highlighted important areas that require Government intervention and consideration for growth of tourism. A debating and painting competition was also held on the occasion in which School children from Government and private schools participated. The theme of which was “celebrating diversity”. The Academy of Art and Culture also organized a cultural musical programme on the occasion. Later, prizes were distributed among the best performing participants. Secretary Toursim Mrs. Tanveer Jehan, District Development Commissioner, Mr. Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo, Joint Director Toursim, Mr. Mohd. Saleem, Principal, Institute of Hotel Management, Srinagar Mr. Nisheeth Srivastava, representatives of Travel & Trade Associations, House Boat Owners Association, Shikara Union Association, and Adventure Tour Operators Associations, other dignitaries and a large number of School children were present on the occasion.
In a jam packed University convocation centre Gold Medals and awards of excellence were conferred on talented students of government and private schools who excelled in the talent competition conducted by NEESF. The function was jointly organized by JK Scouts and Guides Association and NEESF in Kashmir University. Minister for School Education and Public enterprises, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed was the Chief Guest and Director Information and Public Relation, Kh. Farooq Ahmad Renzu was the Guest of Honour on the occasion. The famous Kashmiri song “Firdousi Baren” describing Kashmir as abode of great sofi saints and reverenced holy- men was presented by JK Scouts, the students of Arya Samaj Gogji Bagh Girls School and Higher Secondary School, Sonawar also participated. The cerography was given by cultural wing of the Information Department. Out of the 44 awards, Kupwara bagged 13, Shopian 12, Srinagar 07, Anantnag 05, Baramulla and Pulwama 02 each while Bandipora, Budgam and Ganderbal bagged one each. Anan Hilal of Saint Lukes School, Anantnag and Azhar Saleem of Mohamadia School Shopian were awarded Gold Medals on the occasion.Among recipients of awards were students from government as well as private schools The special award for highest contribution by all India Boys Scouts and J&K Scouts made in J&K was given to the Chief Commissioner J&K Scouts, Kh. Farooq Ahmad Renzu by Minister of Education, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed. While speaking on the occasion, Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed complimented J&K Scouts as well as NEESF for organizing such grand function in the historical Convocation Hall of Kashmiri University. He said that JK Scouts along with other scouts and social service organizations have to play pivotal role in exploring the talent of our children. He said that NEESF has gone to every nook and corner of the State for conducting talent search tests which is of high quality and high standard and passing these tests by the students means that they have ability to pass any all India State service test. Peerzada appreciated the dedication of teachers and students for their excellent performances saying that Kupwara has bagged the highest number of awards even though Kupwara and Budgam are on the lower end of rate of literacy in the State. Peerzada lauded the liberal funding from Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson, Mrs. Sonia Gandhi for progress and prosperity of the State. He said that expansion in the education sector has already been done and it is time to consolidate the academic as well as physical infrastructure in these institutions so that the students of the state can move ahead and excel in their carriers The Minister said that J&K has no dearth of talent but have to explore it through education as it is the greatest hidden account fulfilling the needs of body, mind and spirit. Peerzada stressed for curtailing the drop out rate and improving the literacy rate as the State is lagging behind the national rate of literacy. Director Information and Public Relations, Kh. Farooq Ahmad Renzu while speaking on the occasion emphasized on exploring the human talent through acquire knowledge, adding students have to constantly strive for gaining knowledge along side acquiring technical skills for being more competitive in the modern high tech world. He said that human resource in our State can be improved by sharpening skills and exploiting potential to sustain in the present era of competitions. Prof. S. Mufeed Ahmad, Mr. Mehrajdin were also awarded on the occasion. Among others Chairman, Mr Kripal, Training Commissioner, J&K Scouts Nazir Ahmad , Mr. Gowhar and Akhtar Hussain, in addition to a large number of dignitaries were present on the occasion
As the development projects in the Srinagar city are going on full swing, the residents of Dalkawpora of Rainawari locality demands urgent attention of the Chief Minister (CM) as their applications in the UEED and LAWDA Departments goes in thrash. UEED Department who have given a contract for a sewerage plant at Naidyar bridge and in the undergone course of construct, major cracks have occurred in five residential houses of Mohammad Shafi Ahangar, Farooq Ahmad Ahangar, Mohammad Hanief Ahangar, Farooq Ahmad Sofi and Gulzar Ahmad. The residents have already informed the concern UEED and LAWDA Departments about the same but no action has been taken so far due to which the residents now wants the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s attention for the redress of their major problem. Mohammad Shafi Ahangar , a retired government official said, “Since the beginning of the construction of the sewerage plant, cracks occurred in the ground floor of my house and immediately I informed the concern contract to stop the work, and now cracks has also occurred in the first floor.” “In a straight way, I went to the concern departments to stop the work but no action was taken so far,” he said and added that our application have been kept in files for ten days in the department. Farooq Ahmad Ahangar, a government employee of the CAPD Department said that the contract Abdul Rashid Dar started work of the sewerage plant at the bridge side without ascertaining its affects to the nearby residential houses and no civil engineer of the contractor as well as from the department has visited the site to see the work. Mohammad Hanief, another resident blaming the UEED Department said, “The department should first check all the outcomes of the execution of the work and a civil engineer should be made obligatory to every contract that is given such kind of jobs, so that life and property of the residents will be saved.” He said, “Our life has become miserable to all our family members including the children by the cracks occurred in our houses due to the sewerage plant by every day and night .” While making a request to the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Hanief said that the CM by the medium of this newspaper should give a personal approach towards our problem so that our lives and property will be saved.
The efforts of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah to seek two Central Universities for Jammu and Kashmir to meet the aspirations of people in all the divisions of the State, have born fruits and Government of India approved the two Universities for Jammu and Kashmir. Expressing gratitude to UPA Chairperson, Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh and Union Human Resources Development Minister, Kapil Sibal for the people friendly gesture of granting two Universities to the State, Omar said that the decision depicts UPA Government commitment and keenness for the welfare and development of Jammu and Kashmir. “This has also addressed the sensitivities to and aspirations of the people of all the regions”, he said and advised the politicians to shun the practise of playing regional and communal politics on sensitive and important issues of People’s interest. “In no way regional, communal or divisive politics is answer to any issue, we have given assurance for two Central Universities and the result of our efforts is before the people”, he said reiterating that his way of working is to prove the point by actions silently and without making noises and raising slogans. Omar said his government with the active support of UPA Government in the Centre is committed for equitable distribution of resources and balanced development of all the regions and sub-regions of the State. Describing Jammu and Kashmir epitome of secularism, brotherhood and communal harmony, Chief Minister said that National Conference Congress coalition government will always work to uphold the rich traditions and values of the State. Omar expressing dismay on the attitude of certain political parties who tried to incite the student and people to take a path which affected the academics adding that his style to work silently and achieve goals will continue for the welfare of the state and its people.
Underlining the of providing world class services to the tourists Minister for Tourism & Culture, Nawang Rigzin Jora has said that the State Tourism infrastructure needs further impetus to make it at par with other tourist attracting States of the country. He said that professional tour operators and area specific agents need to be roped in so as to promote brand Kashmir at national as well as International level. Jora said this while addressing the Annual General Meet of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI)-J&K Chapter, here today. The annual meet was attended by Minister of State for Tourism, Housing & Urban Development, PHE, Revenue & Relief, Nasir Aslam Wani, Secretary, Tourism & Culture, Tanveer Jehan, Director Tourism Kashmir, Farooq Ahmed Shah and other office bearers of TAAI. Stressing the need to further explore possibilities of domestic tourism, the Minister said that State has vast potential for tourism and domestic tourist market has to be tapped professionally so that the State becomes more attractive to domestic tourists. He further said that domestic markets need to be developed on modern lines by participating in area specific fairs, promotional tours. He said that he would personally visit these places along with team of his officers to assess the possibilities needed for promoting the sector. Jora called upon local entrepreneurs to come forward in developing new tourist destinations like Dodhpathari, Gurez and Bungus known for unparallel tourism potential. He said that tourism department would work as a facilitator to rope in private sector to promote tourist potential of the State which would help the economy to get fillip besides addressing the burgeoning unemployment problem. He said that the Tourism Department will work with other concerned departments to provide basic infrastructure at these new destinations. Deliberating on the issue of developing world class facilities for the tourists, the Minister said that a lot more needs to be done for developing in house capacity of local hotels, guest houses and other service providers. He said that the resource gap needs to be plugged so as to make visit to Kashmir an experience of life time. Responding to the demands put forth by the TAAI, Jora said that genuine issues of the association would be taken up with concerned quarters adding that the government will work in tandem with private parties working in tourism sector of the State to take the sector to new heights. He also called upon TAAI to act as a self regulatory body for improving services and facilities in the State Tourism Sector.
Taking advantage of the way technologies, J&K e-Governance Agency has initiated an exercise to make available the facility of making free, unlimited voice calls to every citizen of J&K within an identified Closed User Group (CUG) in the State. To be rolled out over the next three years, the facility will have a revolutionary impact on how citizen feedback from every nook and corner of the State will reach the highest quarters of the Government directly. It will also finally enable the benefits of telemedicine and e-learning to flow to every part of the State. The ‘dream’ is technically feasible by using the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP), that millions around the world already use to access such free facilities as Skype and Google Talk and by leveraging the over Rs. 100 crore worth of infrastructure that has already been sanctioned to J&K under such Central sector projects as State Data Centre (SDC) and State Wide Area Network (SWAN). An Expression of Interest (AOI) inviting Public-Private Partnership (PPP) has already been issued in this regard and is available at the IT department’s website at http://jkit.nic.in/. The last day of receiving EOIs is October 12, 2009. The revolutionary initiative has been launched in the background of the realization that successful e-Governance is not just about automating existing systems and processes, nor doing the same things cheaper, faster and more conveniently, but to provide responsive services which can make a real and tangible improvement to the way ordinary people lead their lives. This necessitates having “anywhere-to-anywhere” service links first and therefore, a seamless integration for all ICT infrastructures. This ‘all-inclusive’ platform intends to facilitate the State Government to address, besides the silo challenge and issues of interoperability, the poor and inadequate connectivity that plagues J&K. The stability and 24*7&365 availability of Network is important to facilitate J&K Chief Minister’s vision of “e-Governance at the doorstep of the common man” and to generate immense employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for the youth in setting up internet kiosks and in selling and servicing special mobile and fixed-line VOIP phones. It is in this background that the Government of J&K, as a responsible and responsive Government, is looking to select a party/consortium that can build an “end-to-end infrastructure” (SWAN, SDC & Internet Service Kiosks), duly supported by the till now missed out e-Governance Projects such as Telemedicine and e-learning, if possible. The party/consortium should ideally have: An ‘A’ category ISP license and also, preferably a dedicated spectrum for J&K for securing a stable network till the last mile. Adequate experience in e-Governance projects in India. Experience in deploying/establishing networks in hilly/mountainous terrain similar to Jammu and Kashmir. Experience in setting up data centres of Level 3 (composed of multiple active power and cooling distribution paths, redundant components and maintainable with over 99.9% availability). Willing to invest in SDC and also on setting up of the Internet Service Kiosks to facilitate value added services such as Telemedicine and e-Learning Programmes. The capability to set up voice/data/video network and set ups for any CSC/Internet Service Kiosk/individual in any part of J&K.
3900 households in remote villages of Gurez Tehsil will now be illuminated by Solar lights. The Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Dr. Farooq Abdullah today dedicated the solar home lighting systems installed in 27 villages of Gurez tehsil to the people. The solar lights will enable 30,000 people living in these villages to enjoy the benefits of modern lighting. Illumination provided by the lights will be sufficient not only for all household chores but also for reading and writing and other fine tasks. The Union Minister was accompanied by Aga Syed Ruhullah, Minister for Science and Technology, J&K Government and officers from New and Renewable Energy, Government of India. Gurez valley in North Kashmir manifests the natural beauty of Kashmir in its fully glory. However, it had been deprived of conventional electrification due to its remoteness. It was in light of this that a decision was taken to provide solar lights to all the households in the remote villages of Gurez. The project costs around Rs. 5 crore of which the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India contributed around Rs. 4.5 crore. The balance has been contributed by the State government. The Remote Village Electrification Programme of the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, under which this project has been taken up, aims to provide renewable energy based lighting/electricity solutions to all those villages in the country where grid will not be able to reach in the near future due to technical or economic reasons. The Ministry provides financial support of 90% of the costs for such projects to the state implementing agencies. More than 9400 remote villages in 24 States have been taken up so far under the programme. For the 11th plan, the government has recently approved an allocation of Rs. 867 crore for coverage of 10000 remote villages and hamlets. So far as the State of J&K is concerned, a data base of 284 un-electrified villages and 28 hamlets for coverage under the RVE programme of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India has been prepared. The Ministry has already sanctioned 3 projects for extending basic lighting facility to 145 un-electrified villages. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Farooq Abdullah announced and assured that his Ministry would sanction the projects in favour of rest of the villages in next two years. The solar lights comprise of a solar photovoltaic module which converts solar radiation to electricity which is used to charge a battery. The storage capacity of battery is such that it can light up 2 lamps for 4-5 hours each per day for 2-3 days. A charge controller prevents overcharging and deep discharging of batteries in periods of high sunshine and overcast skies respectively. The systems do not require any maintenance except for periodic topping up of batteries. A 5 year Annual Maintenance Contract with the suppliers is part of the financial support. Many representatives from each of the beneficiary villages have also been trained in minor maintenance and upkeep practices for these systems. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir had earlier provided similar lighting systems to more than 8200 homes in Doda and Kupwara districts. The enthusiastic acceptance of these systems by the beneficiaries further motivated the State to take up many more villages for similar benefits. A project for covering 68 villages in Ananrnag, Kulgam, Budgam, Pulwama and Shopian districts has already been approved by the Centre with a financial assistance of around Rs. 15 crore. JAKEDA is also working on proposals for covering around 150 more villages where grid extension will not be possible in near future. In addition, solar lighting systems are also being provided with financial support from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy for use in hospitals, schools and many other public buildings. These will help the State save substantial amounts of diesel which is presently used for providing electricity. The Ministry is also supporting the state in drawing up plans for exploitation of its huge potential for perennial energy sources such as its flowing water streams and wind so that the quality of life of its people could be further improved. On the occasion, the Minister also inaugurated a training programme for imparting training to local youth in maintenance of solar lighting system.
State government has launched an ambitious Project to provide modern dwelling units to the urban poor of the State under Centrally sponsored Basic Services to Urban Poor (BSUP) of Jawahar Lal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). Under Mission city Jammu, construction of about 1455 dwelling units is in full swing, which includes 608 dwelling units in Rajiv Nagar, 36 units in Kastu Ashram, Bhagwati Nagar, and 811 units in 21 clusters of Jammu city. Likewise about 5222 dwelling units are coming up in Srinagar city to provide housing facilities to the poor people under Mission Srinagar City. The Centre has already released an amount of about Rs. 28.69 crore for the Project costing Rs. 162.38 crore. Stating this here today, while interacting with various deputations from various parts of the state, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Tara Chand said that under Mission Srinagar, about 4600 dwelling units are being constructed for rehabilitation of Dal dwellers at Rakhi-i-Arth at a cost of about Rs. 91 crore whereas 346 dwelling units are being constructed at Sumerbug to rehabilitate boat men shifted from Chunti Kul. Like wise, 276 dwelling units are being constructed to rehabilitate sweepers shifted from Badamwari to Wanganpora. He said a modern housing colony is being developed at Bahrar in down town to rehabilitate Lepers. It is also proposed to rehabilitate the Tibetan urban poor, Deputy Chief Minister added. Deputy Chief Minister said that under centrally sponsored Integrated Housing Slum Development Programme (IHSDP), construction of 5176 dwelling units has been sanctioned in the State at a cost of Rs. 85.20 Crore. These include 2127 dwelling units in eleven towns of Jammu and 3049 units in 14 towns of Kashmir divisions. Besides, one more mini housing colony is being developed at Bemina at a cost of Rs. 12.93 crore. Some new housing colonies at Noor Bagh and Sumerbug for displaced families of river Jehlum are also proposed, Mr. Tara Chand added. He said 4200 kanals of land have already been transferred to Srinagar Development Authority for developing a Model township at Rakh gund Aksha under Public-Private partnership.
Galaxy of stars intellectuals, Drama writers, distinguished artists participate in launching ceremony of 30 day theatre workshop
After Britain Kashmir was the epitome of theatre culture
Sheikh-ul-Alam verses, shrukhs the spirit behind the intellectual vision of Kashmir
At an impressive launching ceremony held at Tagore Hall Srinagar 30-day workshop launching ceremony wa s celebrated with the presence of Galaxy of Stars, intellectuals, Drama writers, distinguished artists. The main organizer of the workshop and distinguished film, documentary, drama artist, Mushtaaque Ali while welcoming the guest at the ceremony said that the purpose of the workshop is to again revive age old traditional theatre culture in Kashmir Valley. The workshop is supported by J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and North Zone Culture Centre, Patiala. On the occasion, the Director Information and Public Relations Kh. F. Renzu was the chief guest who in his speech complemented the organizer for launching 30-day theatre workshop in the Valley which is the need of the hour. While remembering the Prof. Hashmi, the world fame theatre artist, Mr. Renzu said when I was the president of Kashmir University Students Union, Prof. Hashmi joined me with the purpose to create theatre revolution in Kashmir. It was said Hashmi who gave his life for this cause only. He said that theatre revolution can be successful only when revolution of love is made the epitome of this vision. He said that Sheikh-ul-Alam Noor-ud-Din Noorani verses and Shrukhs are the precious treasures of Kashmir and new theatre revolution can became successful only when it is able to present to the world Sheikh-ul-Alam’s vision of Kashmir. He said that very few people know that even a great personality like Hazrat Noor-ud-Din Noorani was subjugated to harshness and timely restrictions by forces of hate during his life time for his mission of propagating the concept of love and brotherhood among people of Kashmir. He said that history will never forget the role of theatre and distinguished intellectuals and artists, writers of Kashmir who exposed the most inhuman Amritsar treaty where under along with cattle even human being were sold. The theatre of Kashmir in the humorous manner presented class tragedy to the people of the world in a spur manner,for which there is no parallel in the annals of history. Even Dr. Sir Mohammad Iqbal, Mehjoor, Abdual Ahad Azad, Dina Nath Nadeem, Pushkar Bhan, Sham Lal Sadhu, Mir Ghulam Rasool Nazki, Prof. Mohi-ud-Din Hajni, and other intellectuals contributed their pieces of intellectual wisdom to spread the concept of oneness and human bonds. On the occasion, Qazi Fayaz, Gul Javid, Dr. Farooq Fayyaz, Mr. Basheer Bhawani, Mr. Showkat Shehri, Mr. Majid Khan, Mr. Aiyash Arif and Dr. Farah Yousif also spoke and threw light on the significance of the workshop in promoting theatre movement in the state. They expressed their felicitation to the chief guest for honoring the occasion. They assured him that 30-day theatre workshop will work to supplement the concept of revolution of love not only in the Valley but throughout sub-continent. A stage play will also be produced in the workshop by the students which will be performed at the end of the workshop.
Chairman/Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC Kargil Kachoo Ahmad Ali Khan laid foundation of 66/11 KV, 6.3 MVA Electric Sub Station at Kargil today. Executive Councilors, Councilors and Deputy Commissioner Kargil alongwith other senior officers of district administration were present on the occasion. Chief Engineer, RGGVY Leh/Kargil Amitab Srivasto informed that the Sub Station will be one of the five such Sub Stations being constructed in the area along with construction of 110 Kms, 66 KV Transmission lines and 510 Kms 11 KV/LT lines under the Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojna (RGGVY) in Kargil district. The RGGVY, a Scheme of Rural Electricity Infrastructure and Household Electrification has been launched by Government of India. He said under this scheme, electrification of 8 blocks of Kargil district is to be done. The entire power distribution system has been designed to utilize the power generated from 44 MW Chotok Hydro Electric Project, which will help in the development of the Kargil region. These Sub Stations will upgrade the existing system to 66 KV (Standard System Voltage) so that power loss is minimized. The work on the entire power distribution system in the Kargil district will be completed in two phases. The work of first phase is scheduled to be completed by October 2010. The implementation work of Kargil district is being done by NHPC Limited.
