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

STUdenT aGe
SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 2013

JKENG/2012/41612 Vol. 2 No: 24

With a few tweaks, accept Verma panel report

Jayalalithaa demands withdrawal of dual pricing for diesel

Terrorism has damaged Islam's image: Pak PM

IN BRIEF
Pilgrims can avail govt subsidy for Haj only once
MUZZAFARNAGAR: The Haj Committee of India has imposed new norms of oncein-a-lifetime pilgrimage via subsidy following the Central govt's decision in this regard, as against the earlier policy of once in five years. "All the faithfuls undertaking the pilgrimage will have to submit an affidavit with the application contd on page 2

India for extradition of Headley

NEW DELHI: India on Friday made it clear that it will stand by its demand for extradition of Lashkar-eToiba terrorist David Headley, accused in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks case. Disappointed over the 35year jail term awarded to David Headley by a US court, the government said it wants death penalty for the LeT terrorist and all those who were involved in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Headley, an American had admitted scouting targets for the 2008 militant raid on Mumbai and later agreed to testify against the plotters to

'Congress, BJP demand death penalty for Headley' Headley deserved the death penalty: US judge
avoid the death penalty, was sentenced on Thursday (January 24) to 35 years in prison. Congress and BJP were on the same page today demanding death penalty for LeT terrorist David Headley and were disappointed over the 35-year-imprisonment handed down to him by a US court for his role in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Congress spokesperson Rashid Alvi said that the party was disappointed over the sentence and he should have been awarded death penalty. CHICAGO, JAN 25: Even as a US judge sentenced David Headley to 35 years in prison for his role in the Lashkar-e-Taeba led 2008 Mumbai terror attack, he said the admitted PakistaniAmerican terrorist deserved the death penalty. "Mr Headley is a terrorist," US District Judge Harry "Had we tried him we would have sought much more," Khurshid said when asked whether the 35-year sentence was adequate. American mother. It would have been much easier to impose the death penalty, he said. "That's what you deserve," the judge told Headley, 52, who had changed his given name of Daood Gilani to scout targets in Mumbai without arousing suspicion. contd on page 2 Denmark for the offences to which he pleaded guilty". Asked whether Headley would ever be tried in India, Khurshid said: "The question could only be answered by the prosecuting authorities I cannot speculate." He further said that India has been "consistently" pushing for the Pakistani American terrorist's extradition and trial in India and that "it's good to know that he's being made accountable and that he has at least got 35 years". "We want death sentence for Headley and those who were involved in killing of 166 people in Mumbai. We will keep asking for his death sentence," Union Home Secretary RK Singh told reporters here. He was reacting to the prison sentence

Swamy slams Shinde's 'Hindu Terror' remarks

CHENNAI: Slamming the 'Hindu Terror' remarks of Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde, Janata Party president Subrmanian Swamy Friday said his comments will only help Pakistan."The statement is aimed at only watering down the Islamic terrorism. I condemn terrorism in any form perpetrated by anyone," he told reporters here. contd on page 2

Leinenweber said as he Thursday imposed a relatively lighter sentence on the Washington born son of a Pakistani diplomat and an Under a plea deal, US prosecutors "had agreed not to seek the death penalty against him and to not extradite him to Pakistan, India or

given to Headley by the US Court for helping plot the 26/11 Mumbai terror carnage. The PakistaniAmerican escaped death penalty under a deal with the US government. The Home Secretary said New Delhi would continue to press for the extradition of Headley notwithstanding his plea bargain with the US investigators under which he escaped death sentence as well as extradition to India."We will continue to press for extradition of Headley. The agreement (not to extradite him to India) is between contd on page 2

K'taka crisis: Guv asks Shettar to prove majority by Feb 4

BANGALORE: Karnataka Governor HR Bhardwaj was on Friday asked the Jagadish Shettar led Bhartiya Janata Party government in the state to prove majority on the floor of the House by February 04. The Governor's directive came after the state government was reduced to minority following the revolt 13 MLAs loyal to former Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa. Chief Minister Shettar had met the Governor today and claimed that he had the numbers and could prove his majority in the house. The remarks came after a delegation of ruling Bhartiya Janata Party MLAs loyal to former Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa approached the Governor complaining about Speaker KG Bopaiah's absence. Following the complaint,

SC questions Centre's power to allocate coal blocks

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has questioned Centre's power to allocate coal blocks to companies. The Court said the statutory Act empowers only the states to undertake this task. The apex court said that the centre cannot undermine the Mines and contd on page 2

Governor didn't ask to prove majority: Shettar

BANGALORE, JAN 25: Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar Friday met Governor H.R. Bhardwaj and said he has not been asked to prove his majority though 13 BJP legislators have quit the assembly. "The governor brought to my notice the resignation of the 13 legislators. I have assured him that I have the majority and that there is no problem for the government," Shettar told reporters. Ahead of the meeting, Bhardwaj had said that "if necessary I will direct the chief minister to prove his majority." Shettar contd on page 2

National Voters' Day being observed today

'Vice president favours voters' right to reject candidate'
NEW DELHI: The third National Voters' Day is being observed across the country on Friday. The objective of the day is to increase citizen's participation in the electoral process, more specifically to enroll the newly eligible youth who have just attained the age of 18 years in the electoral rolls. Vice President Hamid Ansari today called for addressing limitations of the country's electoral system and favoured giving the right to reject candidates to voters to boost participation in the election contd on page 2

3rd National Voters Day Celebrated at Srinagar

SRNAGAR, JAN 25: Impressive function was held at Deputy Commissioner Office, Srinagar to celebrate 3rd National Voters Day today. The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Dr. Asgar Samoon presided over the function while Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Baseer Ahmed Khan was also present, on the occasion, besides, Electoral Registrar Officers, BLOs and a large number of new voters. Speaking on the occasion contd on page 2

Fog in UP, rail and flight schedules disrupted

LUCKNOW: Rail and air services were hit Friday as a thick fog blanketed many parts of Uttar Pradesh. The fog, which began late Thursday, led to the cancellation of two flights -- the Lucknow-Delhi Indigo and Jet Airways flights. Hundreds of passengers were stranded at the airport; protests broke out contd on page 2

Governor Bhardwaj had shot off a letter to the Assembly Secretariat seeking details of the presiding officer's tour. The 13 MLAs had planned to quit their Assembly membership but were left in the lurch as the Speaker is away from the country on a foreign tour. The agitated MLAs rushed to the

Raj Bhavan complaining to Bhardwaj about Bopaiah's absence in spite of being told in advance about their decision to submit their resignations, a move aimed at pushing the Jagadish Shettar government into a crisis. The MLAs, including Chief Minister Udasi and Shobha Karandlaje contd on page 2

Life insurance cover for 34000 panchs in J&K

SRINAGAR, JAN 25: At least four insurance agencies are in the race to get the contract for providing cover to nearly 34 thousands panchs and sarpanchs across J&K. After they submitted their willingness, a high power government committee is being constituted to scrutinize the submissions and issue a formal tender and ink the deal. If nothing goes off the script this exercise will fetch the insurance sector the first group insurance product for covering the elected lot at the grassroots. After Kashmir witnessed phenomenal participation in the elections for Panchayat Raj Institutions in 2011, the elected lot became an instant target of the fugitives. Five Sarpanchs were killed as scores of Panchs were injured in a series of attacks for all these years. This triggered public resignations that were either contd on page 2

Omar Abdullah asks J&K separatists to go for talks

JAMMU: In a political snub to Kashmiri separatists, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Friday asked them to see the reality and talk to the central government. Addressing the people of the state on the eve of the Republic Day here, Abdullah asked separatist leaders to give up their double standards. He said separatist leaders contd on page 2

Bhutan King to be chief guest at Republic Day parade

NEW DELHI, JAN 25: The King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar N a m g y e l Wangchuck will be the chief guest at this year's Republic Day parade. He was given a ceremonial reception by the President Pranab Mukherjee at the forecourts of Rashtrapati Bhawan this morning. Accompanied by Queen Jetsun Pema, the Bhutan King is on a 8 day State visit to India. He also paid floral tributes at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Later today the Bhutan King will call on the President and meet Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. During his visit, he will also hold talks with Vice President contd on page 2

Three powerful bomb blasts rock Imphal

IMPHAL: In Manipur, three powerful bomb blasts rocked Imphal City on Friday morning. The blasts took place at different places of Imphal despite elaborate security arrangements to contain untoward incidents ahead of the Republic Day Celebration on Saturday. Police sources said, the first explosion took place at the high security zone of the First contd on page 2

Revocation of AFSPA vital to improve ground situation: Mirwaiz

SRINAGAR: The moderate Hurriyat Conference on Friday called for revocation of Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and gradual withdrawal of troops from Jammu and Kashmir to improve ground situation. "We reiterate our demand for revocation of special powers to six lakh armed forces present in the state and start of withdrawal of troops. "Until contd on page 2

Nation celebrates Miladun-Nabi with religious fervor & traditional gaiety

NEW DELHI: Milad-unNabi, the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammad, is being celebrated across the country today with religious fervor and traditional gaiety. 1000s of Muslims thronged to pray in Dargahs and mosques. The President, Vice President, the Prime Minister and the UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi have greeted the nation on the occasion.In his message, the President Mr. Pranab Mukherjee said prophet's contd on page 2

Centre sanctions 20 Centre clears modifications new tourism projects of in special industry initiative Rs 97.36 crore to J&K UDAAN for youth employment in J&K SRINAGAR, JAN 25: Minister for Tourism
Ghulam Ahmed Mir has said that this fiscal Centre has sanctioned 20 new tourism projects of Rs. 97.36 crore to the State, against which Rs. 19.18 crore have been released as first installment to take up the works . He asserted that completion of these projects besides other ongoing projects would get focused attention of his Ministry their early completion. The Minister said that necessary direction have been issued to concerned executing authorities to double their efforts for timely completion of the projects so that the visiting tourists could not face any inconvenience while visiting the State. Giving the details of this year sanctioned projects, the Minister said that construction of Kashmir Haat at ChinarBagh , development of picnic contd on page 2 NEW DELHI, JAN 25: The Centre has given its approval to modifications in the 750 crore rupee special industry initiative scheme UDAAN in Jammu and Kashmir to make it more flexible. The Cabinet committee on Economic Affairs decided to allow Public Sector Undertakings to participate in the scheme and meet the expenses as a part of their social responsibility. AIR correspondent reports that under the scheme 40 thousand youth will be trained in five years. Companies which enter into agreement with National Skill Development Corporation will screen and select students from the state. The scheme will facilitate gainful employment for the youth in Jammu and Kashmir and channelise their energies into creative work.

HAPPY REPUBLIC DAY TO ALL INDIANS

Courtesy: Jan Skinder State Secretary Youth Congress J&K

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Card and feel power with this voter ICard. He said by attaining voter I-Card they can vote and make best choice for their representatives in ensuing elections to strengthen the democratic set up in the state. On the occasion Divisional Commissioner distributed Voter ICards among a number of youth who have attained 18 years of age by Ist January 2013. The Divisional Commissioner had a pledge from the voters. The pledge reads as we, the citizens of India, having abiding faith in democracy, hereby pledge to uphold the democratic traditions of our country and the dignity of free, fair and peaceful elections, and to vote in every election fearlessly and without being influenced by considerations of religion, race, caste, community, language or any inducement. Divisional Commissioner also read out the message from Chief Election Commissioner of India on the 3rd National Voters Day. Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Baseer Khan also spoke on the occasion. National Voters Day was also observed at all district Head quarters which include Pulwama Baramulla, Kupwara, Budgam, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Shopian, Kulgam and Anantnag. Where respective Deputy Commissioner distributed the EPIC cards among voters and read out message of CEC of India. their insurance cover and their demand for honorarium have been acknowledged and the state government has prepared an action plan in this regard". a high level committee will be set up to issue a tender," a senior RD officer said. "Once we get bids, we will grab the best offer." Since this is the first state in India that is seeking insurance to its PRI members, the bidding insurers will have to create a special and specific product to have this business. Officials are under tremendous pressure to complete the exercise as early as possible. The coalition partners do not want the PRI members on the other side of the fence at a time when J&K is approaching the next assembly election. were condemnable. On RSS connections of the accused persons, he said Congressmen Jagdish Tytler and Sajjan Kumar were accused in connection with the anti-Sikh riots. "You (Centre) are helping Pakistan and doing it deliberately," he said claiming US officials in the know of things about the Samjhautha Express blast had informed him that the banned LeT was behind the attack. Shinde had courted controversy with his remarks at the Jaipur Congress conclave that BJP and RSS were promoting terror, with the BJP now training its guns against him and the latter describing him as a "darling of the real terrorists."

Contd. from page 1...

India for...
the US and Headley, not with India," he said. Singh said Headley was not only wanted in Mumbai attack case, but in other cases too, including cases related to hatching conspiracy to attack other places in India. BJP too expressed unhappiness over the sentence and demanded his immediate extradition to India. "We want him to be tried like Ajmal Kasab. No Indian can settle for less than death sentence for Headley...We demand from the Government of India to bring Headley to India without delay as the crime was committed on Indian soil," party spokesperson Rajiv Pratap Rudy said here. "The sentence handed down to Headley is perhaps for the death of six Americans killed on Indian soil. What about the other people killed across Mumbai in the ghastly act? "BJP demands justice for them which is only possible when Headley is brought to India to be tried by our courts," he said. Rudy said the sentence was only "partial" as it was awarded by a US court under US laws for the killing of American citizens. The 52-year-old Pakistani-American was sentenced by a Chicago court for the 26/11 Mumbai carnage with the judge expressing his unhappiness over the prosecution seeking a lighter term. Headley had entered into a plea bargain with the US investigators under which he escaped death sentence. A US federal Attorney has also indicated that there is some possibility of extraditing Headley to India if he violates his plea agreement. The Home Secretary also made it clear that India has asked Pakistan to take action against Headley's handlers Major Iqbal of the ISI and Sajid Mir, a veteran Lashkar chief accused of designing the attack. Iqbal remains an officer in the Pakistani Army, and Mir remains in Pakistan protected by the ISI. "We have made it clear to the Pakistan government to bring all the conspirators to justice. We have also shared our information with Pakistan about people involved in the incident (Mumbai attack)," Singh said. Foreign Minister Salman Khurshid also expressed disappointment on Friday over India not been allowed to conduct Headley's trial inspite of him being the co-conspirator in the 2008 Mumbai carnage. He said: "Our request and demand was that we try him in our own country and I think that possibly it would have been more serious and severe sentencing but 35 years sentencing and what the judge has said is a beginning. Earlier New Delhi had expressed disappointment over failure of the earnest plea for Headley's extradition for his role in militant attacks on Mumbai.

Before each trip, Lashkar members and associates instructed Headley regarding specific locations where he was to conduct surveillance. After each trip, Headley travelled to Pakistan to meet with Lashkar members and associates, report on the results of his surveillance, and provide the surveillance videos. Before the April 2008 surveillance trip, Headley and co-conspirators in Pakistan discussed potential landing sites in Mumbai for a team of attackers who would arrive by sea. Headley returned to Mumbai with a global positioning system device and took boat trips around the Mumbai harbour and entered various locations into the device. Between Nov 26 and 28, 2008, 10 attackers trained by Lashkar carried out multiple assaults with firearms, grenades and improvised explosive devices against multiple targets in Mumbai These included the Taj Mahal and Oberoi hotels, the Leopold Caf, the Chabad House and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus train station, each of which Headley had scouted in advance, prosecutors said. In March 2009, Headley made a sixth trip to India to conduct additional surveillance, including of the National Defence College in Delhi, and of Chabad Houses in several cities.

National Voters' Day...

process. Addressing a function on the third National Voters Day here, the vice president said that although voter participation had improved due to steps taken by the election commission, there was a need to critically examine the experience of the past six decades. "This would show, firstly, that every citizen entitled to vote does not exercise this right and secondly, that the firstpast-the-post system adopted by us often results in the winner obtaining less than a majority of the votes cast," Ansari said. He said the right to vote, in terms of the democratic theory, carries with it an obligation to exercise the franchise in favour of a candidate of choice. "A corollary of this would be the right to reject if none of the candidates on the list find favour with the voter. Such a conscious rejection would be preferable to abstention from voting. "The procedural modality for bringing this about can be worked out on the model of some of the democracies where it is in vogue," he said. Referring to the first-past-the-post system, he said its limitation was evident from the factual data and the system encourages candidates to focus on securing votes of a segment of the electorate. "In the first general election in 1952, the percentage of successful candidates who secured less than 50 percent of the votes cast was 67.28. This figure went down to 58.09 percent in 1957. In the 13th, 14th, and 15th general elections in 1999, 2004, and 2009, it was 60.03, 75.87 and 82.68, respectively," he said. The vice president said conclusion was inescapable that a majority of elected members of the Lok Sabha in recent years, and even earlier, won on a minority of votes cast in their constituencies. He said the situation was "no better, perhaps worse, in state assembly elections" with percentage of returned candidates on minority of votes cast going above 70 percent in several cases. Ansari said when this percentage is considered alongside the average voter turnout, it suggests that the elected representative may not, often is not, representative of the electoral constituency. "This system encourages candidates to focus on securing votes of a segment of the electorate and accentuate social divisions based on narrower considerations that derogate from inclusiveness and promote divisive tendencies and social conflict. "For a mature democracy like ours, both these limitations of our electoral system require to be addressed," he said.

Centre sanctions 20 ...

spot at Pahalgam, light and sound show at Shalimar Bagh, construction of budgeted accommodation at Aharbal and lolab- bagus- drangyari would be completed at a cost of Rs. 22.28 crore, while as construction of TRC at Yousmarg, eco-friendly development of Sutkudi base camp to Vishansar, Sonamarg, development of Sarbal lake at Veering, development of Jamie Masjid heritage corridor as a tourist destination, development of Doodpathari as tourist resort ,setting up of laser show/multimedia show at dal lake and development of way side facilities and up- gradation of Shri Amarnathji Yatra track would be carried out at the cost of Rs. 22.52 crore in Kashmir valley. The minister said that in Jammu division under the Centres this fiscal sanctioned projects development of tourist infrastructure at Natha top and development of Sanaser lake, conservation and restoration of Mubarak Mandi heritage complex as mega tourist, development of tourist infrastructure at Mansar lake, development of Mugal road lake circuit Poonch, development of tourist spots in BallwanBasoli and Bani area and Development and promotion of pilgrim circuit at GurdawaraNangali sahib in poonch besides integrated development of tourist circuit Darhal as base camp and shaker marg as gate way to the tourist destination of Pirpanchal range would be completed at the total cost of Rs. 38. 68 crore. He said likewise Rs. 4.45 crore projects for development of tourist infrastructure in Kargil tourist spot have been also sanctioned by the Centre. Complementing the local tourism fraternity for their significant role in tourism sector, Mir said he would address all the issues which are confronting the trade. The Tourism Minister said that "J&K is blessed with natural beauty which attracts visitors from various countries. After agriculture and horticulture, tourism is the biggest contributor to the economy. But, unfortunately, this sector received blow during militancy". He said thatfor the last few years, tourism is reviving and we are hopeful of good tourist season this year also. We have to work collectively to make J&K as the number one tourist destination. "We have a lean tourist season at present and this time we are moving to different places in India and abroad to promote J&K as an attractive tourist destination. But we have to help bring peace in our region so that tourism is given chance to flourish," Mir asserted while interacting with the tour and travel trade bodies.

SC questions Centre's...
Minerals Act which has given no power to it to allocate coal block to companies. A bench of Justices R.M. Lodha and J.Chelameswar asked the government to go through other legislations particularly the Coal Mines Nationalisation Act, to find out whether it is empowered to allocate the resources.

Fog in UP...
against the airlines as passengers alleged they had been kept in the dark about the cancellations. More than three dozen trains were also reported running late. These included Lucknow Mail, the New DelhiLucknow Shatabdi Express and the Chandigarh Express, all of which were late by over 10 hours. The Met department confirmed the "return of extreme cold wave conditions". The lowest temperature was recorded in Muzaffarnagar with 2.2 degrees Celsius. Regional Met director J.P. Gupta said the chill was likely to continue for the next one week due to cold winds sweeping the state. The sudden change of weather also led to electricity demand peaking, forcing the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) to buy more power. With three consecutive holidays - Miladun Nabi (Friday), Republic Day (Saturday) and Sunday - the corporation was buying 2,000 MW of additional electricity, an official said.

K'taka crisis....
who quit as ministers, were taken aback when they were told Bopaiah was on tour while Assembly Secretary P Omprakasha was also not available. The Governor has also sought tour programme details of Assembly Secretariat officials. The 13 MLAs have, meanwhile, sent their resignation letters to Bopaiah through e-mail and requested him to accept them by January 27 or 28. Nehru Olekar, Haveri MLA, said the group was contemplating to move a habeas corpus petition before the state High Court in a couple of days to trace the Speaker. The MLAs' resignation bid was seen as part of Yeddyurappa's game plan to push the Bhartiya Janata Party government into a crisis and threaten its stability before Shettar could present the Budget on February 8, the last before the Assembly Elections due in May.

Bhutan King to...

Mohammad Hamid Ansari, Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj. AIR correspondent says, the King's visit will contribute to further strengthening and expanding the close bilateral relations between India and Bhutan. The unique and special relations between the two neighbouring countries are characterized by everlasting friendship, deep understanding and mutual trust.

Revocation of....
troops enjoy powers under black laws like AFSPA, no change can be expected in the ground situation in Kashmir," Chairman of moderate Hurriyat Conference Mirwaiz Umer Farooq said addressing a Friday congregation at Jamia Masjid in downtown Srinagar. He said there is no justification for AFSPA and other such laws as the Centre and state governments are making claims of improvement in the situation. Mirwaiz said bilateral political dialogue between India and Pakistan will not prove fruitful till its positive impact is visible on the ground in Kashmir. "On the one hand Justice Verma Commission recommends revocation of AFSPA, on the other the stand taken by the government on the issue is open violation of human rights," he said.

Three powerful bomb...

Manipur Rifles Complex in Imphal at around 7.30 on Friday morning. The second blast took place near Keishamthong Bridge on the bank of Nambul River under Imphal Police Station at around 10:15 on Friday morning. The third explosion occurred at Nongmeibung near Raja Dumbra Singh High School under Porompat Police Station in Imphal at around 11 on Friday morning. No one was injured in the incidents. Just after the blasts, security forces cordoned the areas and search operations were conducted to nab the perpetrators of the crime. However, there is no report of any arrest in connection with the blasts. No militant group has so far claimed responsibility for the explosions.

Governor didn't ...

said Bhardwaj had accepted the government's invitation to address the joint sitting of the legislature Feb 4. The 10day session is the first this year and it is customary for the governor to address it detailing the government's programme for the year. Shettar is scheduled to present the budget for 2013-14 Feb 8. Bhardwaj asked Shettar to meet him following the decision of the 13 legislators, all loyalists of former BJP chief minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, to quit the assembly. Their decision to quit is part of a plan to prevent Shettar from presenting the budget. Yeddyurappa, who quit the BJP and the assembly Nov 30 to head the Karnataka Janata Party (KJP), wants Shettar's ministers to resign and not go in for the budget session as elections are due in May. C.M. Udasi and Shobha Karandlaje, who resigned from the Shettar ministry Wednesday, are among the 13 legislators. The resignation of the 13 legislators, which the speaker has no option but to accept, would bring down the BJP's strength to 105, including the speaker, in the 225-member assembly. Of the 225, 224 are elected and one is a nominated member. The effective strength of the assembly now is 223 as two -- Yeddyurappa and another BJP legislator Haladi Srinivas Shetty -- have quit. The BJP has the support of one of the seven independent members who is a cabinet minister. The party is said to be wooing the other six independents to back it. The Congress has 71 members and the Janata Dal-Secular 26. The two parties are also opposing Shettar's move to present the budget. While the speaker and his office have remained silent on his whereabouts, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Appachu Ranjan said that he had gone abroad and would return Jan 28.

Headley deserved...
However, under a plea deal, US prosecutors "had agreed not to seek the death penalty against him and to not extradite him to Pakistan, India or Denmark for the offences to which he pleaded guilty." "He commits crime, cooperates and then gets rewarded for the cooperation. No matter what I do, it is not going to deter terrorists. Unfortunately, terrorists do not care for it," Leinenweber said. "I do not have any faith in Mr Headley when he says that he is a changed person now. I do believe that it is my duty to protect the public from Mr Headley and ensure that he does not get into any further terrorist activities," the judge said. "Recommending 35 years is not a right sentence," Leinenweber said. But "The sentence I impose, I'm hopeful it will keep Mr Headley under lock and key for the rest of his natural life." Headley's 35 year sentence would be followed by five years of supervised release. There is no federal parole and defendants must serve at least 85 percent of their sentence. In pleading guilty and later testifying at the trial of his friend Tahawwur Hussain Rana, Headley admitted that he attended LeT operated training camps in Pakistan on five separate occasions between 2002 and 2005, prosecutors said. In late 2005, Headley received instructions from three members of Lashkar to travel to India to conduct surveillance, which he did five times between September 2006 and July 2008 during which he made videotapes of various potential targets.

Life insurance cover...

read out from the pulpits of the mosques or published through paid advertisements in the vernacular media. However, officials said, they received quite a few resignations in black and white and not every one of them was accepted. Though the police investigated a number of cases and made arrests in a few as well, it did not stop the massive movement by the Panchs to get security cover. The state government, however, made it clear that securing every single PRI member may not be possible. Instead, they offered area security and in certain cases individual security would be considered if the situation merits so. The coalition government, at the end of a fierce public debate, finally offered two concessions to the PRIs: firstly, that they will be paid on monthly basis and honorarium and secondly they will have a life insurance cover. State government has already mooted a proposal before the central government on the honorarium front. Insiders in the government said if it does not get any help from the centre it will still manage some honorarium from its own kitty. For the insurance cover, expressions of interest were sought. By January 21, the last date for the EoI, four insurers had shown their willingness to be part of the exercise. These included Life Insurance Corporation ( LIC) and New India Assurance. Official sources said the idea is to have a full insurance cover from the date of issuance of the policy till the end of the present tenure that ends in latter 2016. The government wants full cover to 4128 Sarpanchs and 29707 Panchs. "EoI is with us and once we study it,

Omar Abdullah asks...

had been holding talks with Pakistan but were making excuses against talking to the government of India. Abdullah's speech tempered with the theme of peace and the need for dialogue was crisp. He emphasised that guns and money would not be able to achieve anything. "Dialogue is the only way forward to resolve all issues," he said, and appealed to separatist leaders to discuss political issues and seek an amicable solution. Referring to some separatists' recent visit to Pakistan, Abdullah said: "When they can talk to the leadership of the neighbouring country, they should also talk to leaders of their own country and work for the settlement of basic political issues confronting Jammu and Kashmir for the larger interest of the people of the state." Crediting the people of Jammu and Kashmir for helping the government to maintain peace and carry forward development, the chief minister said that "peace could not have been possible without the active support of common people". Abdullah said the people are the fountainhead of power and their representatives at the grassroots are real agents of socio-economic transformation. Stressing the role of village heads, Abdullah said that "a state like Jammu and Kashmir cannot be governed from Srinagar and Jammu secretariats", and that the "security of panchayat members,

Nation celebrates...
message of brotherhood, compassion, tolerance and service to humanity, guide and inspire the people to live a righteous and productive life. The Vice President said the message of the Prophet guide the people in building a peaceful and harmonious society. The Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh in his message,recalled the timeless and eternal teachings of the Prophet, which speak of brotherhood, tolerance and compassion among fellow human beings. Mrs. Sonia Gandhi said, the Prophet had a deep love for the entire humanity and we should pledge to preserve his ideals for a better tomorrow. In Tamilnadu, special prayers for world peace and communal harmony were held held at mosques in Tirunelveli.

Pilgrims can avail...

that they are going for the first time for the pilgrimage," Dr Shakir Hussain, Haj Committee of India (HCOI) CEO, said here on Friday. "The decision has been taken to give more opportunities to those pilgrims who have never performed Haj before and strict action would be taken against those who are found to be violating the new norms," he added. In a directive issued on January 18 to HCOI, the chief agency for Haj operations in the country, the ministry of external affairs had said that pilgrims would not be considered for the journey for the second time if they have performed Haj earlier on government subsidy. Earlier, pilgrims were allowed to go for the second time after a gap of five years after their first visit. Meanwhile, HCOI has also announced that the application forms for the pilgrimage would be available free of cost from February 6 to March 20 from the offices of state Haj committees this year.

LOST
We, Rach Pal S/o Tara Chand and Sushma Devi W/o Rachpal R/o Maghot Karora. BPO Prem Nagar. Teh & Distt Doda have lost all documents of Tractor Temp No. 3669, Chasi No. WACN45606165720, Engine No. 43-1025/SRN14088 applying for duplicate objection if any may be conveyed to concerned authority within seven days from the date of Publication.

3rd National...
the Divisional Commissioner called upon the youth having attained the age of 18 years and above to obtain voter I-

Swamy slams Shinde's...

Swamy said no one was holding all Muslims to be terrorists and said extremist activities from persons of any faith

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JAMMU: Recognising that Health sector is priority area for the state government, J&K Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand has said that it is working towards bringing modern medical facilities and improving health-care infrastructure in rural areas of the region. "Health sector is priority area and work on the road map to extend modern medical facilities to every nook and corner of the state is underway", Chand said last evening while chairing a high-level meeting held to review the health sector scenario in rural and border belts of Khour in Akhnoor area of Jammu. "On one hand existing medical institutes are being upgraded to super speciality levels and on the other all out efforts are being made to ensure that required medical care centres are established in remotest possible areas of the state," he said. The deputy CM noted that people living in the border and remote areas are poor and it is difficult for them to come to urban health centres. It is important that the centres operating in these areas are supplemented with required staff and equipment, he added. Chand said that shortage of staff should be attended at appropriate levels and doctors as well as para medical staff must be posted in Primary Health Centres of Dhanga, Pallanwala and other centres. He said generator sets for all PHCs must be provided for round-the-clock service and also gave directions for purchase of mobile medical unit and two fully equipped ambulances, besides one critical care ambulance. Chand said health-care

NEWS IN BOX

11 injured as ceiling of mosque collapses in J&K

SRINAGAR: At least 11 persons were injured on Friday when the ceiling of a mosque collapsed in Ganderbal district during the Friday prayers, police said. The mosque at Mohalla Sayed Gund Sarfraw, some 60 kms from here, was jam packed with devotees and the ceiling could not hold upon their weight, they said. The injured have been admitted to a hospital and their condition is stated to be out of danger, police said.

Health sector is priority of J&K govt: Deputy CM

centre infrastructures need repair and renovation, so the work must be started on priority and wherever required residential quarters should be constructed. He said NRHM is a flagship mission and its proper implementation in rural areas can go a long way in addressing the health-care needs of the people.

CM meets Governor

Sham undertakes extensive tour of hilly belt J&K Disaster Rescue Force Akhnoor, takes stock of people's problems trashes media reports
JAMMU, JANUARY 25: Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma today undertook an extensive tour of hilly belt of Akhnoor and Sunderbani areas and take stock of people's problems, especially the drinking water requirements. Since it was the first visit of the Minister after taking over the new assignment, hundreds of people at different places gave him a rousing reception amidst drum beating and slogans in favour of the coalition Government. The Minister addressed large gatherings of people at Chowki-Chowra, DannaJalada, Ambi Dhanna, Rah Salyote, Sunderbani and other adjoining areas. He highlighted the programmes and policies of the coalition government. The Minister said that Government was committed to provide improved basic facilities to the people in all the three regions of the State. He asked the people to maintain close coordination with the Government for ensuring overall development. Maintaining that Government has formulated a comprehensive plan for the development of kandi and hilly areas, the Minister said that these areas will receive focused attention during the JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Rescue Force on Thursday trashed reports published in a section of media, which purportedly projected an "alarming situation in the state", a day after the department published an advertisement to make people aware about natural and man-made calamities. "There is no such alarming situation in the state and the news item carried by a section of press is not factually correct," Inspector General of Police (IGP) J&K, Home Guards, Civil Defence and State Disaster Rescue Force (SDRF), Y Koul said. The State Disaster Response Force, which is headed by an officer of the IGP rank, issued an advertisement in a local English daily yesterday, listing the do's and dont's in case of a nuclear, chemical or biological weapons attack. The IGP clarified that advertisement was published on the eve of first Raising

Chief Minister,Omar Abdullah shaking hand with Governor, N. N. Vohra at Raj Bhavan. JAMMU, JANUARY 25: Mr. Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, met Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here this evening. During their hour long meeting, the Governor and the Chief Minister discussed issues relating to internal and external security management, implementation of major development schemes and programmes, elections to rural and urban local bodies, functioning of statutory and constitutional institutions and matters relating to good governance. They also discussed the just released report of the Justice J. S. Verma panel which recommends changes in the criminal justice system to protect the dignity of women and enhance their safety and security. The Chief Minister is concerned about the requisite steps being timely taken in regard to this important issue.

Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma addressing a public gathering at Jammu. remaining period of the coalition Government. To overcome the scarcity of drinking water in the kandi areas, the deep drilling tube-wells will be established at vulnerable areas after proper survey, he added and said that a Committee of engineers has been constituted to find out the viability for establishing the tube-wells as per the requirements. He also directed the engineers to enhance the field visits to address people's problems on priority. At Chowki Chowra, the Minister directed for immediate renovation of Intake Filtration Plant. He issued instructions to the engineers to complete the on-going water supply schemes in the area in a time bound manner. He directed for making judicious use of funds and ensuring quality of work. He also directed for best upkeep of all schemes and measures to protect all water supply schemes. He also issued instructions for undertaking plantation around the reservoirs and water supply schemes to maintain healthy environment and to keep the water neat and clean near the resources. Asking the Sarpanchs/Panchs to discharge their responsibilities with honesty and utmost care, the Minister maintained that elected representatives have greater responsibilities and they must work hard to fulfill the expectations of the people. He said Government has already taken measures to empower them and efforts are afoot to restore powers to the panchayats as per the Central Panchayati Raj Act after bringing necessary amendment in the State Act. While interacting with the daily wagers of the PHE, the Minister assured them that their demands for regularization will be looked into sympathetically and Government will take appropriate decision in due course of time. He asked them to discharge their duties with extra zeal and dedication and take care of Government assets for which they are the custodians. He said ground level functionaries have equal responsibilities, adding that without their active involvement the operationalization of water supply schemes is not possible. MLC Mr. Ravinder Sharma, Chief Engineer, PHE, Mr. Ashwani Sharma, SDM, Akhnoor, Mr. Naginder Singh Jamwal and sectoral officers of various departments also accompanied the Minister.

TUNNEL COLLAPSES, FOUR LABOURS WOUNDED AT JK

JAMMU, JAN 25 : Four workers were injured Friday when a portion of a tunnel under construction crumbled in Jammu and Kashmir, police said. The four were taken out of the rubble at Chenani, about 90 km from here, and taken to a hospital in Udhampur. The tunnel is part of a four-lane road widening project of the Jammu-Srinagar highway. The reason for the collapse was not known.

Day of SDRF in public interest to make them aware about the natural and manmade calamities. He said that it was a routine exercise to raise general awareness and educate people about the preventive measures to be taken in the event of various disasters like floods, earth quake, snow avalanches or manmade disasters. Build underground bunkers and stock it with food and water to last at least two weeks to prepare for a possible nuclear attack, says the advisory to the people in the state by the disaster response wing of the JK government. The advisory came against the backdrop of a series of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control which heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. "Construct and identify basements in your residence where the whole family can stay for a fortnight," the advisory had read.

Central sub-committee visit by month end

NEW DELHI, JANUARY 25: The Sub-committee of the union ministry of culture will visit Srinagar and Jammu by the end of this month for technical guidance to the project executing agencies in the run up to formal release of central funds for the undergoing renovation and up-gradation of J&K's premier cultural infrastructure, Tagore Hall and Abhinav Theatre. This follows a meeting Thursday Secretary J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, Khalid Bashir Ahmad had with Joint Secretary, Union Ministry for Culture, Pramod Jain, during which the former underscored the need and requested for early visit of the Sub-committee to the twin capital cities of the State. He also discussed possibilities of central funding for the multi-crore cultural centre, Tehzeeb Mahal, the foundation stone of which was laid by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at Srinagar on Tuesday. It was agreed that the Academy would submit a proposal along with Detailed Project Report of the Tehzeeb Mahal for financial assistance by the union ministry for culture. The visit of the Sub-committee is pending since February 2012 when the central government had agreed, in principle, to fund 60 percent of the cost of the renovation and up-gradation projects for Tagore Hall and Abhinav Theatre. The Sub-committee had to discuss project preparation on the site and guide project staff. However, the visit could not materialise so far. Jain assured that the visit of the Sub-committee will take place by the end of the current month. He also assured of full support of his ministry in promoting cultural activities in Jammu & Kashmir and asked the State government to take advantage of various assistance schemes run by the ministry. He also called for preservation of intangible heritage of which J&K had a rich tradition.

Jammu's Mughal Road construction delayed

JAMMU:The completion of the prestigious Mughal Road, which connects the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch in the Jammu region with the Kashmir Valley has been delayed. The Rs.640 crore project is now five years behind schedule. The new deadline has been set for May. Work on the project was started in October 2005 and was to be completed by June 2008. Minister for Roads and Bridges Abdul Majid Wani set the new deadline after voicing his serious concern over the delay in the execution of the project at a meeting here Thursday. The Mughal Road was used by Emperor Jehangir to travel to Kashmir. His caravan used to start from Sialkote, now in Pakistan, crossing beautiful valleys enroute the rivulets. Reviewing pace of progress on the prestigious project, Wani asked the executing agencies to stick to the targeted time frame for completion as a delay will result in escalation of costs besides loading un-seen additional burden on the state exchequer. "The concerned engineers and executing agencies working on the Mughal Road project should complete all the seven major bridges by the end of May this year so that the cherished dream of fully re-opening of this historic road project comes true," said Wani, adding that Rs 55.75 crore has already been earmarked for bridge construction. The minister also directed the engineers to prepare a comprehensive project report for construction of a seven km long underground tunnel across Pir-Ki-Gali in between Zaznar to Chata Pani road stretch, which is the heaviest snow belt in the road. The stretch could be made an alternate for JammuSrinagar highway, the only road link with rest of the country.

Kishtwar Congress Committee meet Kichloo

KISHTWAR: A deputation of District Congress Committee Kishtwar met Sajad Ahmad Kichloo Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Home, Tourism and R&B. The deputation comprising of block presidents, office bearers, Youth congress and Mahila Congress leaders was headed by district president Pardeep Singh Parihar. The congress leaders congratulated Kichloo on his induction in the council of ministers and expressed their hope that the newly inducted minister will work for the development and welfare of the region. They also thanked the Congress high command for induction of two ministers

Deputation of District Congress Committee Kishtwar meeting with Sajad Ahmad Kichloo Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Home, Tourism and R&B at Kishtwar. from Congress quota hailing from the Chenab region. Kichloo after hearing the deputation thanked the congress team and assured that he will work for the betterment of the people and will strengthen the coalition at gross root level. Among others who accompanied the deputation include former DYCC President Advocate Sheikh Nasir Hussain, block president Kishtwar Haji Ghulam Hassan Mir, Block President Padder Nek Ram Manhas,I/c Block President Marwah Mohd Hussain Akhoon, Youth Congress Assembly President Nadeem Iqbal, Mahila Congress state secretary Urmila Devi, Dist President INTUC Raj Kumar Badyal, state secretary PCC Labour cell Jia Lal, senior leaders Parkash Ram Sharma, Brij Lal, Rajinder Sharma, Chowdhary, Shahid Khandey, Prem Singh, Roshan Lal Nazeer Ahmad, Ghulam Mohd, tauseef Iqbal Butt senior Youth congress leader.

Mir Reviews pace of progress in district Kupwara

SRNAGAR, JANUARY 25: Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs Mir Saifullah Friday stressed upon District Administration Kupwara to work with dedication and sincerity so that the people of the district do not face any inconvenience regarding the availability of basic amenities. The Minister was addressing an officers meeting at Kupwara convened to review the pace of progress on various developmental projects in the district. Giving a resume of achievements recorded in the district during current fiscal Deputy Commissioner Kupwara informed the Minister that out of District Plan of Rs. 68.95 crore, Rs. 44.26 crore have been expended on the execution of various developmental works and implementation of welfare programme by the end of December 2012 under district plan. The meeting also reviewed the pace of progress on MGNREGA, IAY, SSA, PDD and other vital sectors. Addressing the meeting the Minister directed Deputy Commissioner and all sectoral officers to ensure 100 percent expenditure by the end of February 2013. He also directed officers not to leave the station without prior permission of concerned heads/ Deputy Commissioner. He also exhorted upon them to use government vehicle within their jurisdiction.

IGP Salaria awarded

JAMMU:The prestigious "President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service" Shri Mohd. Sulaiman SalariaIPS, IGP In ,J&K Police presently posted as IGP (Personnel) J&K has been awarded the prestigious "President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service" by the President of India on the occasion of 64tb Republic Day of India 2013. Sh1'i Salaria with 29 years of service in J&K Police exhibited high order of bravcry, couragc and cnthusiasm in fighting tcrrorism at Kishtwar, Samba, Udhampur, Jammu, Doda, Poonch, Rajouri and Kupwara districts of J&K during his po stings as Additional SP Kishtwar, SP Rural & Hqrs ,Jarnmu, Addl. SP Udhampur, CO JKAP 7tl1 Bn. Kupwara and DIG CID Jammu Zone. He established very effective anti-militancy grid at. the assigned areas of his responsibility and took the general public int.o confidence while fighting terrorism. He conducted many anti terrorist operations in his assigned areas of responsibility which resulted into elimination and arrest of many hard core terrorists, seizure of a large number of armsj ammunition from them besides, solving many terrorist related cases. He very tactfully and successfully handled many violent agitations at Reasi, Udhampur, Kishtwar and Jammu districts. The officer solved many blind murder and burglary cases during his postings as SDPO Akhnoor, Dy SP Hqrs Udhampur, Addl. SP Kishtwar, Additional SP Udhampur and SP Rural Jammu. He strengthened Police Community Bond by organizing a large number of Civic Action Programes among the weaker, unprivileged, disabled, shelterless and aged & infirm sections of the society. He brought transparency and fair play in the recruitment process entrusted to him and made strenuous efforts for eradication of corruption in public offices and public sector undertakings during his posting as DIG Vigilance J&K. The officer has already been awarded Governor J&K Commendat.ion Medal-1996, Director CBI New Delhi cash reward 1996, DGP LT&K Commendation Medal 1997, Antrik Suraksha Seva Padak 2001, President's Police Medal for Meritorious service 2004 and Sher-iKa.shmir Police Medal for Meritorious Service2009.

Jammu to host national AROGYA sammelan

JAMMU, JAN 25: The State government in conjunction with Union Health Ministry and Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries would organize four day AROGYA Sammelon in Jammu commencing from February 23rd 2013. The main objective of this conference is to promote Indian System of Medicine (ISM) besides showcasing the strength of AYUSH system etc and the inevitable linkage with the industry. The sammelan, a national event, would be organized at Parade Ground Jammu, in which the stake holders besides the expert doctors, specialists related with traditional system of medicine from in and outside the state would participate. The Union Health and Family Welfare Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad is expected to inaugurate the programme. In this regard, the Minister of State for Health and Family welfare, Shabir Ahmed Khan today convened a meeting of concerned departments and discussed the arrangements. Deputy Director AROGYA, District Development Commissioner, Sanjeev Verma, Director ISM, Dr. Ab. Kabir, Superintending Engineer EM & RE Circle I, Jammu, senior officers of PHE, Fire services, Municipal Corporation, ISM, Health services, PoliceDepartments besides representatives of FICCI and other concerned state and AROGYA officers attended the meeting. The meeting discussed threadbare several matters aimed at success of the event.

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Rather Calls for formulation of a realistic, logical Plan for next fiscal
JAMMU, JANUARY 25: The broad contours of the next year's plan proposals were discussed today at a meeting chaired by the Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs Mr. A. R Rather. The Minister for Planning and Development Mr. Ajay Sadhotra was also present. While discussing the plan proposals, the Minister asked the concerned authorities of Finance and Planning Departments to formulate the proposals with strong logic as early as possible so that these are forcefully put before the Planning Commission of India (PCI) for approval. He said that the requirements and the aspirations of the people should be the fulcrum of the next year's plan informed that the State has submitted projects worth Rs. 600 crore to the Centre under SPA which have been approved by the Planning Commission and are being scrutinized by the Union Finance Ministry for release of funds. The Finance Minister said that the allocation of special funds for development of bad pockets shall continue in future budget proposals also as this arrangement has proved very beneficial. He asked the officers to prepare the Budget Cabinet note urgently so that the Budget Cabinet is convened in time. Mr. Rather said fiscal deficit is well under control and the tax revenue is also expected to exceed the target. But the poor recovery of revenue on account power receipts is a constant worry for the State as it disturbs the fiscal management. He asked the concerned officers to ensure that improvements takes place in this area as well. Minister for Planning and Development, Mr. Ajay Sadhotra asked the officers of Planning and Finance Departments to work in close coordination to formulate a people friendly budget. "The main thrust of the Planning should be on the resource mobilization." He urged. The next year's Budget is likely to be presented in the State Legislature during the first week of the March this year.

Minister for Finance and Ladakh Affairs A. R Rather discussing the plan proposals to the concerned authorities of Finance and Planning Departments. adding that the realistic figures that would suffice sectoral requirements of the State need to be projected in the Plan proposals. The current year's plan size is of the order of Rs. 7300 crore. Economic Advisor to the Government, Mr. Jaleel Ahmad Khan, Financial Commissioner Finance, Mr. Iqbal Khanday, Principal Secretary, Planning and Development, Mr. B R Sharma and Director Resources, Ms Risham Kashyap were also present in the meeting. Mr. Rather said that the State will seek a much bigger plan for the next fiscal as compared to the current year's plan of Rs. 7300 crore. He said that the flow of funds under the plan from Union Finance Ministry under various heads is going on regularly and satisfactorily, adding that Rs.400 crore have also been released so far under committed Special Plan Assistance (SPA) of Rs. 1984 crore, hoping that the remaining amount on this account would also be released shortly as the State has fulfilled all the requisite formalities in this regard. It was

J&K artists interact with PM

NEW DELHI, JANUARY 25: Artists representing Jammu & Kashmir State at the upcoming Republic Day parade in the union capital Thursday had an interaction with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh at the sprawling Teen Murti Bhawan lawns. The Prime Minister, accompanied by wife, Smt. Gursharan Kour, exchanged pleasantries with J&K Tableau artists, drawn from the three regions of the State, and posed for a photograph with them. A contingent of six artists from the State later participated in a cultural item, Hindustan ka Guldasta' jointly presented by the artists from 14 states whose tableaux have been selected for participation in the Republic Day parade on January 26. Interestingly, the programme was choreographed by Randhir Kumar, choreographer with the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages. The presentation was highly appreciated by the audience. A contingent of 25 artists from Jammu & Kashmir is participating in the Republic Day parade with the State Tableau. This year, the theme of the tableau is Pashmina with special focus on Noori, world's first cloned Pashiman goat. The technological breakthrough was accomplished by the scientists of Sheri-Kashmir-University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Kashmir on March 9, 2012. Earlier on Wednesday, the artists of Jammu & Kashmir won Special Award for their brilliant performance at a cultural evening held at the Rashtriya Rangshala Camp. Artists from all the 14 participating states presented their items.

Ensure snow clearance, power restoration in remote areas: Mir to officers

Minister for Agriculture, Mr Ghulam Hassan Mir visiting various hilly villages of Tangmarg constituency. TANGMARG, JANUARY 25: Minister for Agriculture, Mr Ghulam Hassan Mir exhorted upon the concerned authorities of R&B department to ensure snow clearance on the roads of remote areas for plying smooth vehicular traffic. He also impressed upon PDD authorities to ensure restoration power supply in these areas. The Minister today visited various hilly villages of Tangmarg constituency. He took Stock of people's problems and developmental needs in these areas. He directed concerned authorities to double their efforts and ensure time bound completion of works taken up by the government for the benefits of locals. Mr Mir inspected several developmental works in the area. He instructed concerned higher-ups to accelerate their field visits of remote areas for ensuring use of quality material besides judicious utilisation government exchequer in execution of the projects. The Minister also directed concerned authorities to organise awareness camps of various welfare schemes launched by central and state government for socio economic transformation of weaker sections of the society. Mr. Mir assured the people that all their genuine demands developmental needs would be fulfilled in phased manner adding that up gradation of health, education ,power and drinking water in remote and hilly areas tops the agenda of the government was on the top agenda.

Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh accompanied by wife, Smt. Gursharan Kour interacting with J&K artists at New Delhi.

Govt HSS Ramgarh organises seminar on 'Democracy and Electoral Participation'

RAMGARH,JAN 24: Govt Higher Secondary School, Ramgarh, Jammu today conducted a seminar on the theme of 'Democracy and Electoral Participation'. About 10 students participated in the seminar. The judges of the seminar, Surinder Kaur and Mr.Nek Ram adjudged Nisha Rana, Pooja Devi and Neha Verma as 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively. The Principal of the School, Sh. Jail Kumar presided over the function. Speaking on the occasion,he also threw light on the importance of democracy and electoral participation.

Tehzeeb Mahal: Kashmir culture's exotic future address

Dr Manohar conducts public darbar at Dhralta

KATHUA, JANUARY 25: with a view to mitigate the people's problems and developmental needs at their areas, Minister of State for Fisheries, Cooperatives, Finance and Planning, Dr Manohar Lal Sharmsa today convened a Public Darbar at Dhralta, Billawar. On the occasion, the Minister received warm welcome from the people of the area besides Panches and Sarpanches of Billawar for his elevation and holding of Independent charge of Fishers and Cooperative departments. Deputations one by one put forth their demands and developmental needs to the Minister almost related to the upgradation and improvement provisions of road connectivity, safe drinking water and uninterrupted power supply their respective villages. Other demands highlighted by the inhabitants includes upgradation of Middle School Dhralta to High School, Hand-pumps, early completion of Upper Dhar to Dhralta road, upgradation of 63 kva transformer to 100 kva, playground and dispensary of Animal Husbandry. The Minister assured the locals that are their genuine demands and developmental needs would get redressed through concerned departments on priority. He on the spot instructed the concerned officers to take necessary action for redressal of people's genuine demands and developmental needs, adding that fulfilling people's aspirations and developmental needs tops the agenda of the government. The Minister said coalition Government was keen to undertake extensive development of kandi and hilly a1He said the Centre and State sponsored schemes and liberal funding of the Centre Government has resulted improvement in socio-economic status of the people across the state. The Minister said that government has launched several welfare schemes for socio-economic upliftment of the weaker sections and called upon them to come for forward and took maximum benefits by these welfare schemes. The Minister announced upgradration of Middle School Dhralta to the level of High School under RMSA. He said an amount of Rs. 39 lakh would be expended for construction of additional blocks of already upgraded five schools in the area and construction work of these would be completed within 18 months period.

Foundation Course of Jr. Scale Adm. Services concludes

SRNAGAR, JANUARY 25: The 18 week Foundation Course for Junior Scale KAS Probationers 2012 batch culminated today with a valedictory function at IMPA Srinagar today. The batch of 29 Officers shall undergo next phase of their training at Revenue Training Institute, Bemina. On this occasion, the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon was the chief guest. He exhorted upon the probationers to inculcate qualities of good human beings so as to qualify for becoming good officers to serve the common masses. The function was attended by Course Coordinator, Dr. Jahan Ara Jabeen, Head Academics and Trainings, Prof. G.M. Dar, Deputy Director, Mr. Ghulam Rasool Kumar and other faculty members.

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 25: Jammu & Kashmir's rich art and culture will soon have a new and exotic address in the multi-facility Tehzeeb Mahal, the foundation stone of which was laid by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah near Tourist Reception Centre on Tuesday. With this, the uncertainty dogging the construction of Tehzeeb Mahal for decades has finally come to rest. A modern cultural centre to showcase rich art, cultural and literary heritage of the State was being planned since 1970s and in 1982, foundation stone of Tehzeeb Mahal was laid in the Emporium Gardens. However, the project did not move any further until recently when the Chief Minister approved its construction adjacent to the Tourist Reception Centre. The Tehzeeb Mahal is a huge Rs. 64.89 crore project of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages. Another Rs. 23.47 crore will

be spent on relocation of the State Road Transport Corporation at Nowgam and cost difference of the land to be paid to the Corporation as former owner of the present site. Secretary J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages, Khalid Bashir Ahmad said the ground floor of the3storeyed building will have auditorium with a seating capacity of 600, Folk Replica Centre, Art Gallery, Administration Space and Intimate Theatre Studio with seating capacity of 200. The first floor, he said, will house Auditorium Balcony, Exhibition Hall-1, Handicrafts Display Room, Library and Conference Hall while the second floor will have Exhibition Hall-2 and Heritage Museum. An Open Air Theatre and Sculpture Garden will be other facilities available at the Tehzeeb Mahal, he said, adding, the basement of the building measuring 46,123 sq ft will be used for parking and housing services.

The building, Khalid said, will have special architectural finishes in tune with local heritage architecture including maharaji bricks,deji dewari look, devri stone cladding, khatamband ceiling, pinjra and jaffri work, paper machie and sozni work on walls and log bridge and heritage fort wall. Pertinently, the Academy has a rich collection of manuscripts, paintings, miniatures, sculptures, artefacts, reference books, photographs etc. which due to present limited space could not be displayed for public viewing except occasionally by holding limited exhibitions. The Tehzeeb Mahal will resolve this problem and make possible round-the year display of the State's magnificent heritage besides turning into the permanent and colourful address of the State's culture. The project to be completed in 39 months, is being executed by J&K Projects Construction Corporation Ltd.

State Awards in favour of 13 persons under different categories announced

JAMMU, JANUARY 25: The Government today announced the grant of State Awards on the eve of Republic Day in favour of 13 persons for rendering meritorious services in the different fields. Award of Bravery of Rs 51,000, a Medal and a Citation was accorded to Mr. Vivek Kumar S/O Shri Shamsher Chand R/O Akhnoor. The cash Award of Rs 51,000, a Shawl worth Rs 10,000 and Citation in the field of literature granted in favour of Mr. Ghulam Nabi Firaq. Award for performing Arts of Rs 51,000 each besides a Medal and Citation has been granted in favour of Mr. N. D. Jamwal (Painter/Sculptor) and Mr Ali Mohammad (Suma player). While as cash award for excellence in Arts and Crafts of Rs 51,000, a Medal and a citation granted in favour of Syed Amjid Ali S/O late Syed Hussain R/O Zadibal Srinagar. The Awards for meritorious public services of Rs 51,000, a Medal and Citation to each awardee granted in favour of Mr. Atul Daloo, Commissioner Secretary, Tourism and Culture Departments, Mr. Showkat Ahmad Mir, Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, Dr. Sushil Kumar Sharma, Head of Department, Cardiology, Government Medical College, Jammu and Dr. Mohammad Saleem Wani, Additional Prof. Urology and Kidney Transplant Surgeon, Department of Urology, SKIMS, Srinagar. Awards for outstanding service under media category of Rs 51,000, a Medal and Citation to each awardee was granted to late Sham Koul (Posthumously), Mr. Bashir Ahmad Sofi, Bureau Chief, UNI, Srinagar and Mr. S. P. Sharma from Tribune Newspaper.

National Voters Day celebrated at Udhampur

UDHAMPUR, JANUARY 25: Like other parts of the country, third National Voters Day was celebrated at District Headquarters Udhampur here today. The District Election Officer (Deputy Commissioner), Udhampur, Mr. P.K. Pole who was the chief guest on the occasion highlighted the importance of the day. He said that the objective of this day was to aware the general masses to increase the enrollment of voters so that maximum number of voters can participate in the electoral process. Additional Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, Mr. Surat Singh, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Mr. S.S. Samyal, representative of social and Non Governmental Organizations, citizens and students in large number were present on the occasion. On the occasion, District Election Officer handed over EPICs to the electors registered in the electoral rolls for the first time. The newly entered voters were also provided badges with the inscription Proud to be a Voter - Ready to Vote. Later, an awareness rally comprising young students drawn from colleges and schools was flagged off by the District Election Officer from Deputy Commissioners Office complex. The students carrying placards in their hands with slogans like Vote a Tool Thats Most Powerful, Vote to Root, Vote Also to Uproot, Elect to Select Get the Most Perfect etc passed through main locations of the Udhampur town.

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EDITORIAL

With a few tweaks, accept Verma panel report

he Justice JS Verma Committee has provided a clear and comprehensive roadmap to the Government on ways to tackle rising crimes against women. It is now for the political class in general and the Congress-led UPA Government in particular to move forward and do the needful. Constituted in the aftermath of the December 16 gang rape incident in Delhi last year that led to nationwide outrage, the panel has recommended changes in the criminal justice system so that those who commit crimes against women are punished promptly and severely. But Justice Verma and the two members of the committee, former Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh High Court Leila Seth and former Solicitor General of India Gopal Subramanium, have also rightly looked beyond legal minutiae and taken a bird's eye view of the problem. In its overall critique of the situation, the panel makes three main points that deserve close scrutiny. First, the failure of governance has been the root of sexual violence. While everybody is well aware of the extent of governance deficit in this country, this blunt statement by Justice Verma will hopefully ring alarm bells within the political class. The second point is with respect to the poor implementation of existing laws. Justice Verma makes no bones about the fact that India has ample rules and regulations. Put to practice in an effective manner, they are good enough to ensure the functioning of a lawful society. However, an inefficient police force coupled with an overburdened judiciary, not to mention an interfering political class, has led to the sorry mess that India's law and order system finds itself in. A complete overhaul of all law-enforcement agencies including the judiciary is the need of the

DOES WESTERNIZATION = MODERNIZATION?

By Marie Anthony sually when we talk about traditional wushu's relevance to modern times, we concentrate on the question "how can it help us to improve ourselves and our society?" Of course, those of us who love the art easily have a lot to say about that. All we have to do is examine our own experiences. Though details vary from person to person, basically our stories would hit on the same points: It's a great exercise for health and fitness. It builds strength of character and promotes inner growth. It challenges us to awaken and develop those parts of ourselves in which creative abilities and expanded thought exist. The outcome to our acceptance of this challenge is the next chapter in every person's story. As an ethnic art, it provides practitioners a living experience of Eastern philosophy and wisdom. And let's not forget the obvious: it teaches advanced techniques which can be used for high-level combat. Performed correctly, the movements have a power, flow, and depth that is beautiful to watch and fulfilling to perform. One could accurately say that traditional wushu massages the entire person: body (inside and out), mind, and spirit. To an outsider, this must seem too good to be true. But, this isn't the whole story. Practitioners must have the guidance of a true master who transmits the techniques of a pure lineage. For their own part, they must log in many hours of hard work, be willing to face their own errors and limitations, and carry on in the midst of discomfort and uncertainty. They must endure physical, emotional, and mental pain, persevere through frustrations, and struggle with long, boring hours of stance

hour. This brings us to the final point regarding the change-makers themselves. If those responsible for improving the system benefit from the status-quo -such as tainted politicians and non-performing top cops - it is difficult to imagine how they will bring about any change whatsoever. It is against this backdrop that one must view Justice Verma's recommendation that elected representatives against whom charges have been framed in a court of law, should stand disqualified. Here, the intent is fine, but Parliament has to take a final call keeping many aspects in mind. However, the Verma Committee has deeply disappointed the people on two counts: First, by refusing to recommend death penalty for the rarest-of-rare rape cases; and second, by not recommending that the age bar for juveniles involved in rape be lowered from 18 years to 16 years for them to be tried and setenced in a regular court. In the first instance, the panel has argued that the death penalty itself is under debate. Also, the eminent jurists noted that errors could creep into a judgement which is irrreversible and thus, not subject to correction. But then, Indian laws already permit the death penalty for other crimes, with all the attendant dangers that are being pointed out against providing capital punishment in rape cases. Moreover, inmates on the death row go through an intensive legal process before the sentence is actually carried out, thereby significantly minimising the risk of error. Similarly, the argument against lowering the age of juvenile criminals involved in rape - that adult prisons offer no scope for reform - is also rendered hollow by Justice Verma's own admission on the abysmal state of India's juvenile homes that supposedly 'reform' their inmates.

training, basics, and repetitive practice. They must discard many old habits and learn to think, move, act, and react in ways that

fashion, etc.-are automatically reevaluated in the light of the current situation and tastes. In addition, no matter how ancient, tradi-

Modernization has to do with examining something, to judge what should be preserved and what discarded. It brings things up to date, improves, and renews something that was slipping away into an unintended "retirement." At the same time, modernization can be dangerous. It can kill what it should have revitalized. We've seen it happen. An older neighborhood, home to hard-working lowerw income families, looks tired, rundown. So it's "redeveloped" into blocks of expensive condos for busy professionals. How do we keep from crippling or killing the very thing we are trying to preserve?
go against their natural, customary way of doing things. Traditional wushu is very old, as is the culture in which it was born. It is the culmination of centuries of wisdom, experience, testing, and medical knowledge. In contrast, our lives move at a machine-gun pace, with too many things to do, too much information to contend with, and too many changes which have come too quickly. Today's technical innovation makes yesterday's invention obsolete. And events half way around our shrunken globe can affect us with almost the same intensity as if they happened down the block. In this context, a discipline with roots in a strong culture that spans many centuries can be a lifeline of stability, grounding, and peace. But being old doesn't automatically make something better in every way. With the passing of each generation, all areas of life-traditions, arts, religions, science, tional wushu is a living art. Quite naturally it must continue to evolve and grow. In other words, it must be modernized or it will lose its vitality and die. Modernization has to do with examining something, to judge what should be preserved and what discarded. It brings things up to date, improves, and renews something that was slipping away into an unintended "retirement." At the same time, modernization can be dangerous. It can kill what it should have revitalized. We've seen it happen. An older neighborhood, home to hard-working lower-income families, looks tired, rundown. So it's "redeveloped" into blocks of expensive condos for busy professionals. How do we keep from crippling or killing the very thing we are trying to preserve? Before we examine communist China's experiment, the socalled "modern wushu," it's necessary to review some back-

ground. As the 19th approached the 20th century, Western industry, commerce, science, politics, and warfare was on the rise, dominating the world and bringing about changes to other cultures. China, an old civilization which for centuries had isolated herself from outside influence, was behind the times. Therefore she suffered greatly at the hands of Western countries and entered this century a cheated, badly beaten, and demoralized nation. China's response to this sad state of affairs was to catch up through rapid modernization. Major efforts went into learning from the West. Students were sent overseas for their education and, after their return, were given important positions in government and society. Western science, investment, technology, and the democratic political system were studied and adopted. They rushed to build railroads and freeways, and install electricity, plumbing, gas, and modern conveniences to improve their standard of living. They changed their old military style in favor of modern armaments. They instituted the Western educational system and school structure-from elementary school to Ph.D. programs. And like many other countries, in the midst of this enormous struggle China went astray. Having lost self-respect and confidence, they began not only to enjoy but also to imitate western music, painting, theater, and other arts. Baseball, tennis, western calisthenics, and other activities replaced their own sports and recreation. They made the mistake of believing that Western culture and standards were superior to theirs. They confused modernization with Westernization.

Rahul Gandhi: The Rise of a New Dawn or the Setting Sun?

Modern outfits cannot flaunt outdated beliefs

By Gautam Mukherjee eople want a change from the Congress-led UPA Government. The BJP is best placed to offer that alternative, but it has to first shun the regressive processes its ideological mentor RSS propagates The road to Hell, they say, is paved with good intentions. And perdition awaits the gullible. We already live in a nation-state that is echoing the failed state antics of our Islamic neighbour next door. As of now, we mimic Pakistan only in a minor key. But with a daily diet of rapes, murders and terrorist atrocities perpetrated robustly by a bad element running riot in the absence of good Government; it is indeed cold comfort. Indian law and order is on its knees, the courts are completely over-burdened, and the enforcement agencies are undermanned, under-funded, illequipped, and ineffective. The future leader of the Congress, now anointed its vice president, steadfastly refuses to leave learning mode. On the threshold of his possibly becoming Prime Minister in 2014, it is just as well there are many competent people in the Congress with years of actual hands-on experience of governance to support their leader. The Opposition BJP may have a powerful and proven candidate in Narendra Modi and several others at the top of the heap in the party-run States, but these leaders are not blessed with much administrative experience down the ladder. Besides, unlike the dynastic cohesiveness of the Congress, the BJP seems to be in considerable disarray, with many senior leaders blatantly jockeying for power. There is consequently much weakening factionalism. In addition, the BJP is remote-

By Subodh Jain: ndian politics has witnessed many dynamic personalities from the very beginning but the current political scenario lacks such leaders. Although there are many viable for this, the case is utterly different. If we search for young politicians then the name of Rahul Gandhi heads the list. There are many reasons which have made him notch up such a prestigious position. Rahul Gandhi is an Indian politician and member of the Parliament of India, representing the Amethi constituency. Gandhi is the general-secretary of the Indian National Congress. He began his political career in March 2004 and the glory of Rahul Gandhi continues to reverberate in good swing. If we march towards the current situation then it is quite clear that media has raised issues to make Rahul Gandhi the next prime minister- the highest authority of India. But if we take a glance at the past of Rahul Gandhi then things would seem to change in a rapid way. Actually Rahul Gandhi is currently a back hand leader of UPA and doesn't hold any big responsibility in terms of effective leadership at the national level. Currently the political atmosphere is filled with rumors about the rise of Rahul Gandhi as the prime minister, but if we systematically analyze the situation then the results would flabbergast us in true terms. The thing is that Rahul Gandhi has entered politics for more than six years and developmental process has not yet taken a momentum. If we look at the statistics one can never deny the fact that has the best economists, and the best political leaders and moreover a better youth leader too, but all these have proved to be of very little use. If people believe in the fame of Rahul Gandhi then for such people a

question arises that what qualities Rahul has, to be an effective prime minister? Looking at the recent headlines of newspapers, you would find that inflation rate has increased again and hit the pocket of poor people. If government considers Mr. Gandhi as their upcoming leader, why can't Rahul Gandhi coordinate and direct the ministry and take the nation out of its many existing crises? Now, as the presidential election is over, Congress is very much focused on mission 2014. With the failure of many senior leaders, considering Rahul Gandhi as the futuristic leader could be very fruitful for the congress as well as the nation. It is said that, 'the youth is the future of a nation'. It is indeed true. But most of the elected members have never broached for the betterment of youths. Strange! This is a very poor form of leadership for the youths who are leading innovators. So Rahul Gandhi, can in turn be a fervent leader that congress might be looking for. But the only thing to be taken care of is the present failures. As it is very evident that presently congress is not able to cope up with the fluctuations in the political world, this in turn reflects the downfall that Rahul Gandhi's leadership could attribute to. This is the real time for Rahul Gandhi to update himself in coming months and to come up with some better strategies to tackle the worrying issues. I personally believe, experience is on one side and the will to develop a nation is somewhat superior to it. Rahul has got tremendous potential in himself to change the current Indian political scenario. India truly needs a dynamic, charismatic leader and Rahul Gandhi seems to be a perfect match provided he proves himself as a result oriented politician.

controlled by an outdated and cabalistic Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh which continues to be its ideological mentor. The ideological underpinnings of the Congress too are confusing, because it leans both Right, in so far as its reformist

creation and the like. Giving a man a fish feeds him for a day as the old adage goes, but the Congress refuses to teach him how to fish. The BJP, on the other hand, practically has no reformist economic vision at present. The original party for small business,

liness in Gujarat. It is a strange dichotomy that lets the leaders of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha claim Mr Modi won his third term in Gujarat because of his track record on development, without backing similar policies elsewhere. Mr Modi then is

The situation is ripe for a change of Government, but as l things stand, the chances of yet another Congress-led coalition or even a Third Front-led Government seem plausible. This l will not be strong or stable but BJP cannot seize the day if it continues to be untouchable. Meanwhile, as America's black President launches into his second term of office, we can take inspiration, as the most populous democracy, from the oldest one. We can persuade ourselves that inclusiveness is the mantra that gives both hope and strength to a nation.
agenda goes, and Left, in terms of its vision for the upliftment of the poor. Its Socialist past, and years of governing with the support of the Communists internally, and the USSR externally, has partially moulded its DNA. But even since 1991, when the results of modernisation have placed India in the ranks of the most attractive economies and markets in the world, there remains much hesitation in the country's policy direction. So the reform agenda is lagging the promises, as is the progress of the national economy as a consequence. So our income is hampered by ideological squeamishness, but our expenses on burgeoning welfarism and a gargantuan Government establishment are ever increasing. This makes for a disastrous formula that could end up bankrupting us. The concern for the poor and the aam aadmi is expressed largely in terms of handouts and write-offs rather than training, infrastructure development, job shop-keepers and the middle classes, now has nothing to offer its adherents but ideological rhetoric and reactivity. Even Hindutva that worked so well to catapult the party to its pole position in national politics, is now old hat. These days it is economics that sets the tone by default not just in India but the world over, and politics has no choice but to chime in and harmonise. If this does not happen wilfully, there is jarring cacophony and confusion in the mind of the voter. In Mr Modi's Gujarat, one can see the Chief Minister's commitment to business and industry, and the solid results this has produced, but at the Centre the BJP opposes every reformist move for what appears to be the sake of opposing. Sadly, the BJP's performance at the Centre over the last couple of years or more, has more in common with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's arch-Left policies in West Bengal rather than Mr Modi's business friendapparently successful despite the BJP and its anachronistic RSS cradle, and he seems to know it. To some extent, this runningwith-the-hare and hunting-withthe-hound brand of hedged politics on the part of the two major national parties, is due to the compulsions of coalition politics. Coalition politics will have both national parties dependent on the support of regional ones for over one hundred parliamentary seats after the next general election. But the biggest drag on the BJP's prospects of winning power at the Centre is its ideological inability to attract the minorities into its fold. Not only that, it is anathema to many regional parties dependent on minority votes. It is a great pity that the Congress and its allies are able to boldly paint the BJP as communal without any comeback from it. The underpinning RSS too needs to move on from its partition-of-India mindset, its obscu-

rantist sanskar, to embrace India's loyal Muslim and other minorities. Muslims have done this country proud in the Armed Forces, in the police, in the intelligence agencies, in the IAS and the IFS, in sports, in the corporate world, in Bollywood, in the arts. And it is unfair in the extreme to pay lip-service to the needs of poor Muslims as the Congress does, or to ignore them outright as the BJP does, in the name of their version of secularism. The implicit hostility to all Muslims in the RSS and allied organisations is an anachronism and a tired over-played one at that. This only helps the terrorists across the border while giving the UPA an unfair advantage over the already much depleted NDA. Even the JD(U) is having trouble staying in the NDA because of its electoral compulsions in Bihar, and the biggest slur on Mr Modi's reputation, is his perceived, if not real, hostility towards the Muslims of India. The BJP and its associates need to urgently address this problem to give themselves their best chance at winning power at the Centre in 2014 general election. The situation is ripe for a change of Government, but as things stand, the chances of yet another Congress-led coalition or even a Third Front-led Government seem plausible. This will not be strong or stable but BJP cannot seize the day if it continues to be untouchable. Meanwhile, as America's black President launches into his second term of office, we can take inspiration, as the most populous democracy, from the oldest one. We can persuade ourselves that inclusiveness is the mantra that gives both hope and strength to a nation.

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NATIONAL
NDA to decide PM candidate at appropriate time: Sharad
SAHARSA: NDA will decide its prime ministerial candidate at the "appropriate time" ahead of the next general elections, JD(U) national president Sharad Yadav today said. Yadav, who is also the NDA convenor, expressed happiness over the unopposed election of Rajnath Singh as the national president of major partner BJP and said his experience would help NDA in the next parliamentary polls. He exuded confidence that the BJP-led alliance would return to power in the next parliamentary polls as the electorate were "sick" of the UPA government which was guilty of destroying the country's economy due to its short-sighted policies. Asked about the key issues in the next general elections, he said price rise and corruption would definitely be the decisive ones. The JD(U) president flayed the Centre's decision to phase out subsidy on diesel and said farmers should continue to get this fuel on subsidised rate. Commercial users, however, must pay the market rate for it. Yadav, who arrived here for a week-long visit to Madhepura, his parliamentary constituency, flayed RJD chief and former Railway minister Lalu Prasad for making "empty promises" of setting up a rail engine factory in Bihar.

Asaduddin Owaisi demands probe in all blasts since' 92

HYDERABAD: Owaisi Friday attacked BJP leader L.K. Advani for meeting Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to defend Pragya Thakur and other accused in bomb cases. He was addressing a massive rally on the occasion of Milad-un-Nabi today. Saying he suspected the involvement of Hindutva forces, the Hyderabad MP referred to Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde's statement that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) were spreading terrorism in the country. Owaisi alleged that the BJP and RSS were targeting Shinde as he was a Dalit. The Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) chief said his party was ready to work for unity among Muslims and Dalits. "I am looking forward to the day when we will have leaders like Mayawati and Mulayam Singh in Andhra Pradesh. We will work with them," he said. Thousands attended the meeting at the MIM headquarters which continued till about 12.30 a.m. Owaisi clarified that his party was not against Hindus or Hinduism but against Hindutva forces and the Sangh Parivar. He accused the Congress government in Andhra Pradesh of targeting him, his younger brother Akbaruddin Owaisi and other MIM leaders due to personal vendetta. He vowed to defeat Congress in the next elections. Owaisi accused the government of adopting double standards while dealing with the alleged provocative speeches. "You have charged Akbar Owaisi with sedition but not Swami (Kamlananda Bharati). You did not even oppose Swami's bail. You never arrested Praveen Togadia (booked for making provocative remarks in Hyderabad)," he said. Akbar Owaisi, lodged in a jail in Adilabad, has been charged with sedition, waging war against the nation and promoting enmity between people. Asad Owaisi said Akbar was a political prisoner and accused the government of harassing him and playing with his life by making him travel from one town to other despite illhealth. The MIM chief, released from jail Thursday in a seven-year-old case in Medak district, said they would not be cowed down by criminal cases.

Cold conditions persist in Punjab, Haryana

CHANDIGARH: Cold conditions on Friday prevailed in Punjab and Haryana as mercury remained a few notches below normal in both the states. Dense fog also disrupted life in several places including Chandigarh, Amritsar and Ludhiana. Amritsar was the coldest place in the region as it recorded a minimum of 2.2 deg C, one degree less than normal, Met office said here today. Among other places in Punjab, Ludhiana and Patiala braved cold at 6 and 7 degrees C respectively. Chandigarh saw a

low of 5.4 deg C, dropped by a degree below normal. In plain areas of Haryana, Narnaul shivered at 3 degrees C, down by two notches below normal. Hisar, Ambala and Karnal registered a low of 5 deg C, 6.9 deg C and 5.2 deg C respectively. Met has forecasted dry weather with mist and fog at isolated places.

DMK seeks time-bound Govt says no to Pak diplomats' JDS to consider supporting Cong Jaipur visit based on 'inputs' implementation of Verma if it moves no confidence: HDK we have 25: The govpanel's recommendations NEW DELHI, JAN permission to agencies that are consulted, Minister SHIMOGA:Janata Dal (Secular) today to say no," External Affairs ernment has denied
CHENNAI: Key UPA ally DMK on Friday sought time-bound implementation of the Justice Verma Committee recommendations.Without naming his arch rival and Chief Minister Jayalalithaa, who had demanded chemical castration besides detaining rape convicts under Goondas Act, DMK chief M Karunanidhi said it was "laudable" that the Committee had ignored such demands. "It is laudable that the Committee has proposed prison term of 20 years and life-term for gang rape accused and ignored opinions like chemical castration (of the convicts) or detaining the accused under Goondas Act," he said, adding Centre should take steps to implement the recommendations early. The 88-year-old leader in a statement said while many had urged death for rapists, he had called for holding rape-convicts in jail in solitary confinement for life. He said while Committees appointed by governments take time and seeks extension to submit reports, it was "laudable" that the Verma Committee had factored in the urgent need for its recommendations and had come out with a detailed report. The Justice Verma Committee was appointed by the Central government to suggest amendments to existing laws on crimes against women in the wake of the brutal sexual assault on and subsequent death of a paramedical student in Delhi in December that had sparked a national outrage. two Pakistani diplomats to travel to Jaipur based on "inputs from various agencies" and said their visit had nothing to do with the literature festival there. Two Pakistani diplomats-Manzoor Memon, head of the media wing, and Naeem Anwar, minister (trade)-- had requested on January 16 for permission to travel to Jaipur, which was turned down by the External Affairs Ministry. "Diplomatic requests are made from time to time to the Ministry for travelling across the country. In most cases these requests are acceded to and accepted. In some cases for specific reasons, at that time best known to the Ministry and other Salman Khurshid said here today. He also said that one should not confuse any "coincidence with any specific decision vis-a-vis the Jaipur Literary Festival or for that matter anything else." Significantly, the organisers of literature festival in Jaipur said there was no specific invitation to these diplomats. Meanwhile, official sources said the request made by these diplomats was turned down in view of "inputs" by various agencies. They also said while Memon wanted to go to Ajmer later, Anwar wanted to travel to Agra, where an Annual Partnership Summit was being held. The request for travel to Agra was granted. said it would consider supporting Congress if the party moves a no confidence motion against BJP government in the Karnataka Assembly. Speaking at a function in Theerthahalli near here, JDS state unit president H D Kumaraswamy said, "We will consider supporting Congress if the party moves a no confidence motion against the BJP in the Assembly." Kumaraswamy said people of the state "were disgusted with the BJP and would be happy to see its end." "The ruling BJP is set to de-value the office of Speaker in the state. When Shettar was the Speaker, the party forced him to accept the resignation of members in the guise of adopting 'Operation Kamala'. Now, it is banking on present Speaker to save its skin," he said.

Bhutan King accorded ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan

NEW DELHI: Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, who has been invited as the chief guest for this year's Republic Day parade, was given a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan here Friday morning. He was received by President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. He inspected the guard of honour and also met members of the Indian Cabinet. Accompanied by Queen Jetsun Pema, the Bhutan King is on a eight-day state visit to India. He also paid floral tributes at Rajghat, the memorial of Father of The N a t i o n , M a h a t m a Gandhi. Later today, the Bhutan King will call on the President and meet Prime Minister Dr Singh. During his visit, he will also hold talks with Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari, Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj. The King's visit will

contribute to further strengthening and expanding the close bilateral relations between India and Bhutan. The unique and special relations between the two neighbouring countries are characterized by everlasting friendship, deep understanding and mutual trust.

No poll tickets for corrupt BJP leaders: Rajnath Singh

NEW DELHI: New BJP president Rajnath Singh Friday said that he has an unambiguous instruction for his party. "Stay away from greed for money. Avoid financial malpractices." And he promises that the BJP will not give party posts or election ticket to anyone against whom charges of corruption are substantiated. Mr Singh said he agreed with the BJP's seniormost leader LK Advani that there was a need for "morality in politics". He said, "I agree with Advanji, though I cannot guarantee that everyone who is a member of the BJP is free of taint and as pure as the waters of Ganga. But I will ensure that anyone facing charges which are prima facie substantiated will not be allowed to hold a post. And will even be denied a ticket. India is facing a crisis of credibility in politics." This week, Mr Singh emerged as a consensus candidate for the post of BJP president, hours after the income tax department raided offices of companies which had done business with the Purti group, set up by Nitin Gadkari, who was the party president and looked set to get an unprecedented second term. Mr Advani made his remarks on morality right after Mr Gadkari crashed out of the race and Rajnath Singh was elected president for a three-year term on Wednesday. Mr Advani led a highdecibel anti-corruption campaign against the Congress-led UPA government, but the campaign has virtually died, not least because of the charges of corruption that stacked up against the BJP's own president Mr Gadkari. Mr Singh's first term as president was tough. It ended a little after the BJP lost the 2009 elections. The party was riven with factionalism then. He says that he is "no miracle man", but he will try to take all his party men along with him. He warned though that internal peace and democracy cannot come at the cost of discipline. Mr Singh said he would prefer leaders to "avoid going public", referring to the recent rebellion of partymen like Ram and Mahesh Jethamalani against Mr Gadkari. The new president plans to make some changes to his core team soon. How he will keep the multiple factions together and balance the interests of the Sangh and the party may decide the fate of the BJP in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

Jayalalithaa demands withdrawal of dual pricing for diesel

CHENNAI: In a sharp attack on the Centre's dual pricing policy on diesel for bulk consumers, Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa on Friday termed it as "ill-conceived" and "short-sighted" and demanded its withdrawal. She also threatened to file a case in the SC if the central government did not revoke the decision to hike the diesel prices for bulk consumers. "I really wonder whether there is any justification for the partial decontrol of retail diesel prices and the huge increase in the price for bulk consumer," she added. Dated Jan 24, the text of the letter was released to the media Friday. "In normal marketing practice, it is the bulk consumers who enjoy discounts. All this leads me to question what the true motive behind these perverse decisions could be. "I really wonder whether the move is to protect public interest or to benefit private interest," she said. The dual pricing policy, Jayalalithaa said, was "one of the many short-sighted measures taken by the central government which is going to further increase the burden on the common people and aggravate their misery". The central government has decided to hike diesel price by Rs.11 a litre for bulk consumers and 0.55 paise a litre per month for retail consumers.

Security beefed up across India ahead of Republic Day

NEW DELHI: Ahead of the 64th Republic Day celebrations, authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that security remains watertight throughout the country. Security personnel have been deployed at key installations across the central part of the national capital, and specifically, along the route designated for this Saturday's annual parade. A host of dignitaries, including President Pranab Mukherjee, PM Manmohan Singh and chief guest Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, will take part in the celebrations. Security has also been tightened at Delhi airport, Metro stations, railway stations and bus depots. elements and organisations. The district police have already taken the necessary security measures to disrupt any such attempts of the anti-social elements to disrupt the celebrations," said K Jayanta Singh, Superintendent of Police for Imphal West. Assam saw a similar stepping up of vigilance, with security personnel flagging down motorists at important points in Guwahati, checking vehicles and documents for any irregularities.

Kerala makes strides in e-governance

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala's e-governance initiative has gained momentum with more stakeholders from participating organisations as well as the general public using it effectively. Kerala State IT Mission (KSITM), the nodal agency for implementation of various IT initiatives of the govt. has ensured free flow of information and 24X7 access through internet. "The state government is committed to ensure more efficiency in administration and better transparency in its procedures," said Minister for IT and Industries P.K. Kunhalikkutty. Recent e-governance initiatives, that were popular among the masses include a direction to all procuring govt. departments/ PSUs/ boards under the state government to strictly follow the e-procurement for all purchases worth Rs.25 lakhs or above, with effect from March 31, 2013. "This will replace the conventional methods of procurement. With this, tendering have been upgraded to e-tendering and e-procurement, yet another step towards e-governance," said the minister. "The main purpose of e-governance is to make the governance structure more accountable, transparent and extra efficient." KSITM is the implementing agency for e-procurement, with the National Informatics Center (NIC) as its service provider. Another IT enabled programme that has been successfully implemented is the Information and Data Exchange Advanced System (IDEAS), a web based online file, petition and govt. order tracking system that facilitates monitoring of govt. documents for the general public.

In the northeast, home to several separatist revolts, thousands of troops were deployed to prevent any untoward incidents on the national holiday. Manipur capital Imphal has been practicing frenetic security drills, with motorcyclists being stopped and frisked in vulnerable and sen-

sitive parts of the city. As many as seven armed insurgent groups in the state have called for a boycott of Republic Day celebrations, though police officials said that they were geared up for any eventuality. "In view of the general strikes, shutdown and boycotting of celebrations by various anti-social

She said due to the dual pricing policy, the state transport undertakings in Tamil Nadu would suffer an increased annual burden of Rs.750 crore in fuel bill. "I am aghast at the callous attitude of the central government, which pays lip service to protecting the 'aam aadmi' ... even as it perversely allows the super rich owners of luxury cars and SUVs running on diesel to continue to enjoy subsidy and pay almost Rs.10 less per litre than the state transport undertakings that provide transport to the poor." The chief minister said there were "serious doubts about the methodology by which the so-called 'underrecoveries' by oil companies are estimated and the profitability of the upstream oil companies". Jayalalithaa has raised the issue of oil pricing with the central government for the second time in eight days. On Jan 17, she said the decision to peg the domestic diesel prices to international rates was unacceptable at a time when 70 percent of India's crude oil is imported.

Jaipur Literature Festival to lose money, sponsors exit

JAIPUR: The sixth edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival is running on a negative budget of over Rs.1.5 crore (approx $278,000) with several sponsors pulling out in the last three weeks citing financial constraints, said organisers. "Our budget for this year is between Rs.5 crore-Rs.6.8 crore but we managed to garner only Rs.4 crore in sponsorships," festival producer Sanjoy K. Roy said. He said they had covered the budget for this year through sponsorships. "But in the last three weeks, many pulled out. And by that time, it was too late finding new sponsors." "Looks like we will lose money," he said, adding that they had last year managed to recover the cost of the event, billed as the largest literary festival in the Asia-Pacific region. He said his entertainment company Teamwork Production would have to foot the unrecovered bill. Festival co-director and writer Namita Gokhale had also said in her opening speech that they were "Rs.1.5 crore behind budget". "It is a bad financial year," she said. Asked if the negative balance will affect the festival plans next year, Roy said: "We have to find new ways to get money." He said it was hard to downsize the c h o i c e . " According to estimates till Thursday, he said, the footfall at the event was likely to cross 97,000. The five-day festival ends Monday. The 2012 edition had seen 120,000 footfalls. Over 280 authors from across the world are attending the festival this year. Entry to all the venues is free. Asked if sponsors seek presence of celebrities at the festival for more crowds, Roy said: "It's not about celebrities anymore." People came anyway because of the event's popularity, he said. On adding naming of the sponsors to session venues, he said: "They want returns! Since they cannot get tangible returns, like real sales, but only brand returns, so we try to invent new branding opportunities." He said one sponsor wanted to have a session on arts or an English newspaper wanted a session on international relations or another on language writers. "We have to understand the needs of the sponsors. They are not doing charity. They have to get something out of it and we have to meet their requirements." The two consistent sponsors of the event continue to be Infrastructure Company DSC Ltd and Diggi Palace, the heritage resort in this Rajasthan capital that has been hosting the literary carnival. The other big sponsors are Tata Steel, Google, Airtel and Coco-Cola. DSC group's Surina Narula said in her speech Thursday that "financially they (organisers) were not getting much" but "the company will continue to support the fest as long it was open to public and people kept coming".

festival. "People come with big expectations. The festival has become one of five largest in the world. We have no

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INTERNATIONAL & ECONOMY

Bomb blast in Afghanistan kills 12 US troops

KABUL: A car bomb attack on a convoy of the US-led NATO forces in Afghanistan's strategic eastern province of Kapisa kills 12 American troops and destroys two tanks, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid says. Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack which took place at a market in Tagab district of Kapisa Province, northeast of Afghan capital of Kabul, Friday morning. Meanwhile, provincial governor General Mehrabuddin Safi said that at least five civilians have also been killed and 20 others injured in the Kapisa blast. years.

Thousands of Syrian refugees Imran Khan promotes self flow into Jordan overnight as Pakistan's next leader
SYRIA: The number of Syrians fleeing to a Jordanian desert in the dead of the night continues to skyrocket as officials warn of dwindling resources and a prolonged humanitarian crisis. Syrian refugees continue to flood Jordan amid warnings of crisis About 3,280 Syrians crossed into the Zaatari refugee camp overnight Thursday, said Anmar Hmoud, a Jordan government spokesman for Syrian refugee affairs. A day earlier, nearly 3,000 refugees arrived in the nation, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. "Indicators show they keep coming and it's much more than we're used to," Hmoud said. As many as 36,000 Syrians have gone to Jordan since January 1. They are fleeing the ongoing violence in Syria, where the United Nations estimates 60,000 people have died in nearly two years of fighting between government forces and rebels seeking to depose President Bashar al-Assad. Violence continued in Syria on Friday, with three people killed in clashes nationwide, according to the opposition Local Coordination Committees. Heavy shelling continued in the Damascus suburbs, the group said. About 350,000 Syrian refugees have fled to Jordan since the conflict began, a number described as "staggering" by Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh. SWITZERLAND: Pakistani politician Imran Khan says that his party will sweep the upcoming national elections and he will be elected as the country's next leader. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Khan said that his party now has 10 million members -- most of them young people and women -and with their help, he can bring about the change that the Pakistani people have been aspiring for so long. Khan founded Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf 15 years ago after retiring from professional cricket. The excricketer estimated that 40 million young Pakistanis will be voting for the first time in the upcoming elections, out of a registered electorate of 90 million, and they constitute, what he called, "the engine for change." Khan, however, noted that an "epic battle" lay ahead with the "political class" and parties

Civilian casualties inflicted by US-led troops have increased anti-US sentiments in the country. The deaths have been the main source of friction between Kabul and Washington over the past

The United States and its allies invaded Afghanistan in 2001 as part of Washington's so-called war on terror. The offensive removed the Taliban from power, but insecurity continues to rise across the country.

UNSC allows drones for eastern Congo

UNITED NATIONS: The U.N. Security Council has given a green light for peacekeepers to use surveillance drones in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after weeks of delay over concerns of Russia, China and Rwanda about the use of aerial spy equipment. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon wrote to the 15member council late last month to advise that peacekeepers in Congo planned to use unmanned aerial systems "to enhance situational awareness and to permit timely decision-making" in dealing with a nine-month insurgency by M23 rebels in the mineral-rich east. In a response to Ban, the president of the council for January, Pakistan's U.N. Ambassador Masood Khan, said the body had taken note of the plans for the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Congo to use drones - effectively approving the proposal. But the council also noted that it would be a trial use "in line with the Secretariat's intention to use assets to enhance situational awareness, if available, on a caseby case basis," Khan wrote in a January 22 letter that was released on Thursday. He wrote that the Democratic Republic of Congo operation would be "without prejudice to the ongoing consideration by relevant United Nations bodies of legal, financial and technical implications of the use of unmanned aerial systems." Independent U.N. experts say the M23 rebellion, which has dragged Congo's eastern region back toward war, has received cross-border support from Rwanda and Uganda. Both governments strongly deny the accusations. Rwanda - which this month began a two-year term as a Security Council member had initially opposed the use of drones in Congo, saying it did not want Africa to become a laboratory for foreign intelligence devices, while Russia and China had also raised concerns. U.N. peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous earlier this month told the Security Council that three drones were needed to fly along the porous border in Congo's mountainous east. The United Nations has wanted surveillance drones for eastern Congo since 2008. Alan Doss, the former head of the U.N. peacekeeping force there had asked the council for drones and other items to improve real-time intelligence gathering. The request was never met, but the idea generated new interest last year after M23 rebels began taking over large swathes of eastern Congo. The U.N. force in Congo suffered a severe blow to its image in November after it did not intervene when well-equipped M23 rebels seized control of the eastern Congolese city of Goma. The rebels withdrew after 11 days. Ban is expected to submit a report to the Security Council in the coming weeks recommending ways of improving the U.N. force in Congo, known as MONUSCO

N Korea threatens South over UN sanctions

SEOUL: North Korea has threatened to attack South Korea if it joins a new round of tightened UN sanctions against Pyongyang, a day after the US expanded existing sanctions and denounced the communist state's decision to conduct nuclear testing. In a third straight day of fiery rhetoric against regional powers, the North directed its verbal onslaught at its neighbour on Friday, saying: "Sanctions amount to a declaration of war against us." "If the South Korean puppet regime of traitors directly participates in the so-called UN 'sanctions', strong physical counter-measures would be taken," the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of Korea, said. The warning, carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, came after North Korea's top military body on Thursday threatened to conduct a third nuclear test and boost its ability to strike the US. Leon Panetta, the US defence secretary, said the comments were worrying.

that have a vested interest in preserving the current "crumbling system" and status quo to stop change. A survey conducted by the Washington-based Pew Global Attitudes Project in June last year showed that Khan was the most popular politician in the country. Khan's stance on Washington's war on terror, which he calls a war of terror, his opposition to the US drone attacks in Pakistan's northwest tribal region, and his struggle for the rule of law, justice, equality, and the eradication of corruption have endeared him to the Pakistanis.

Terrorism has damaged Islam's image: Pak PM

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani PM Raja Pervez Ashraf has said that Islam never granted permission to impose any ideology by force. Addressing a Seeratun Nabi (PBUH) conference here on Friday, the prime minister greeted the nation on Eid Miladun Nabi and said that terrorism caused immense damage to Pakistan and the image of Islam across the world. He said "our actions contradict the message of Holy Prophet (PBUH)". Raja Pervez Ashraf said that Pakistan always condemned terrorism, adding that whoever kills innocent people is a terrorist. He further said that drone strikes are not the solution and are extremely counter-productive The prime minister added that Pakistan is a peaceful nation and we should not get divided on sectarian basis. Qazi in Islam is sovereign and impartial and love with Holy Prophet (PBUH) is spirit of the faith, he said

Washington denounced the North for the nuclear test threat, calling the warning "needlessly provocative". Jay Carney, White House spokesman, said such tests "would only increase Pyongyang's isolation". "North Korea's statement is needlessly provocative and a test would be a significant violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions," he said.

"We are very concerned with North Korea's continuing provocative behaviour," he said at a Pentagon news conference. The reclusive North has this week declared a boycott of all dialogue aimed at ending its nuclear programme and vowed to conduct more rocket and nuclear tests after the Security Council condemned its December rocket launch.

ECONOMY

Reliance Life Insurance RBI seen cutting repo rate for launches new endowment plan the first time in nine months
MUMBAI: Reliance Life Insurance, a part of Reliance Capital, on Thursday announced a new plan that offers guaranteed life cover and maturity benefits. The plan Reliance Life Insurance Super Endowment Plan would provide life insurance coverage for the full policy term by paying for just half of the selected policy period, a company statement said. "This new product is in line with our philosophy to enable customers across all income segments to insure their life and provide security to their dependents," Reliance Life Insurance Chief Executive Officer Anup Rau said. The new plan is available for customers in the age group 8-60 years with a minimum sum assured of and 10 years for a 20 year policy - while the Life Cover is valid for the entire period. "This is ideal for people MUMBAI: Reserve Bank of India is expected to reward the government next week for its efforts to reform the economy and bring its finances under control by announcing its first cut in interest rates in nine months. The RBI has been growing in confidence that the government, gripped by inertia for much of last year, is finally doing its bit to lift an economy that has slumped to its slowest pace of growth in a decade. "The government has gone ahead with all the promises it had made 3 to 4 months earlier. There have been pretty substantial measures on the fiscal deficit front," said Samiran Chakrabarty, head of research atStandard Chartered Bank in Mumbai. "To an extent, that will be comforting for the RBI."Inflation is also heading in the right direction as far as the central bank is concerned. Wholesale price inflation, the main price gauge, fell to a three-year low of just over 7 percent in December. Since mid December, yields on 10-year Indian government bonds have pulled back to 7.865 per cent from above 8 per cent in anticipation of a rate cut. The slide marked the first time the yield had dropped below 8 percent since early 2011. However, the central bank remains cautious with inflation around 7 per cent. Last week, Governor Duvvuri Subbarao said inflation remained too high, a comment that dashed financial market expectations for a more aggressive rate cut of 50 basis points. Most economists expect the RBI to cut its policy repo rate by 25 basis points on Tuesday to 7.75 per cent and follow it up with a cumulative 75 bps of cuts by the end of September. "The RBI cannot be very aggressive in rate cuts. Our view is that inflation is unlikely to fall sustainably below 7 per cent. There are lot of suppressed inflationary pressures that will add to it," said Sonal Varma, India economist at Nomura in Mumbai. The RBI last cut rates in April 2012 by 50 basis points but warned at the time there would be limited scope for further cuts.

Rs 1 lakh. The policyholder can opt for two policy terms - 14 years or 20 years. An interesting feature of the policy is that the premium payment term is only half the policy term - 7 years for a 14 year policy;

who want to limit their premium payment commitment period but like to enjoy Life Cover for a longer time. Policyholders will be entitled for guaranteed maturity benefits at the end of the policy period," Rau said.

NEW DELHI: Indian mobile phone companies, led by Reliance Communications and Tata Teleservices, have lost about 43 million subscribers - or 5% of their stated customer base - in the second half of calendar 2012, and are better off for it. With the incremental allotment of precious radiowaves no longer linked to subscriber addition, telecom companies are actively dumping inactive subscribers to unclog their systems and reduce costs, marking a radical departure from their earlier acquire-at-any-cost strategy. The net result of this clean up, says Sivarama Krishnan, executive director of consultancy PricewaterhouseCoopers India, is that "industry wide, operators would be able to save costs amounting to about 2% of their revenues, somewhere around 300-400 crore".

Telcos disconnect inactive subscribers to save costs, unclog system

Gold, silver extend losses on sustained selling

NEW DELHI: Both the precious metals, gold and silver, fell for the second straight session on Friday due to sustained selling by stockists against lack of buying support and weakening global trend. While gold plunged by Rs 190 to Rs 31,100 per 10 grams, silver lost Rs 500 to Rs 58,900 per kg owing to reduced offtake. The trading sentiment remained bearish after gold headed for the biggest decline in almost two weeks in global markets as a drop in US jobless claims signalled an improving outlook for economic growth and curbed demand for the precious metal as a haven asset. In New York, gold plunged by USD 17.40 to USD 1667.40 an ounce and silver by 1.89 per cent to USD 31.62 an ounce. In addition, some investors were seen shifting their funds from weakening bullion to rising equity and retail customers refraining from buying at existing higher levels also influenced the trading sentiment here. Gold had become costlier by Rs 475 in three sessions ever since the government hiked import duty by two per cent on Monday and shed Rs 95 on Thursday. On the domestic front, gold of 99.9 and 99.5 per cent purity plunged further by Rs 190 each to Rs 31,100 and Rs 30,900 per 10 grams, respectively. Sovereigns followed suit and shed Rs 50 to Rs 25,450 per piece of eight grams. In a similar fashion, silver ready and weekly-based delivery dropped by Rs 500 each to Rs 58,900 per kg, respectively. It had lost Rs 350 in the previous session. Silver coins also tumbled by Rs 2,000 to Rs 82,000 for buying and Rs 83,000 for selling of 100 pieces on resistance in demand at prevailing higher levels.

Urban families with cars, laptops, PCs not poor: Expert panel
NEW DELHI,JAN 25: Urban households having car, air conditioners or computer/laptop with internet should be automatically excluded from the list of poor, suggested a Planning Commission-appointed expert group. According to the expert group headed by renowned economist S R Hashim to suggest methodology for identifying urban poor, households having three of the four items like refrigerator, motorised two-wheelers, landline telephone or washing machines should not be treated as poor. The panel has suggested that the government should use threestage approach -- automatic exclusion, automatic inclusion and scoring index -- to identify urban poor. Planning Commission had constituted the expert group to recommend the detailed methodology for the identification of families living below poverty line in the urban areas on May 13, 2010. The automatic exclusion would imply that households possessing specified assets should be removed from the Below Poverty Line (BPL) list. Under the automatic inclusion step, homeless families facing social and occupation deprivations should be included in the BPL list. The report said that families living in houses with roof and wall made of plastic or polythene or the household having only one room or less with the material of wall being grass, thatch, bamboo, mud, un-burnt brick or wood and the material of roof being grass, thatch, bamboo, wood or mud be treated as poor. Under occupational vulnerability, the household having no income from any source should be included automatically. As per the report, a family be defined as poor if any of its member (including children) is a beggar or rag picker, domestic worker and sweeper or sanitation worker or mali. The family would also be poor if all its earning adult members are either daily wagers or workers with irregular wagers. In the third and final stage, the remaining households should be assigned scores from 0 to 12 based on various indicators of residential, social and occupational vulnerabilities. Those households with scores from 1 to 12 should be considered eligible for inclusion in the BPL list in the increasing order of the intensity of their deprivations meaning thereby that those with higher scores are more deprived, the report suggested. The expert group recommends that the set of households qualified for automatic inclusion in the set of BPL households should be taken as hard core poor. The expert group felt that the identification of urban poor should be a participatory exercise involving general public with an appropriate grievance redressal mechanism ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the process. It also recommended that the state governments should be given flexibility regarding the appointment of nodal officers in establishing the grievance redressal mechanism. The government, it added, could use SMS service, helpline numbers, emails etc to redress grievances of the people.

Forex reserves down at $295.67 bn on Jan 18: RBI

MUMBAI, JAN 25: Foreign exchange reserves were at $295.67 billion as of Jan 18, compared with $296.25 billion in the previous week, the Reserve Bank of India said on Friday. Changes in foreign currency assets, expressed in dollar terms, include the effect of appreciation or depreciation of other currencies held in its reserves, the Reserve Bank of India said in its weekly statistical supplement. Foreign exchange reserves include India's Reserve Tranche position in the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

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MISC

Australian Open: Murray beats Federer to reach final

MELBOURNE: Britain's Andy Murray faced down his Grand Slam nemesis Roger Federer in an electrifying five-set thriller to reach the Australian Open final on Friday. The US Open champion finally ended his run of Grand Slam failures against the Swiss world number two, winning their semi-final 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 6-7 (2/7), 6-2 in exactly four hours. Murray is now into in his third Australian final and will play defending champion Novak Djokovic on Sunday, a rematch of the US Open decider when the Scot won his first Grand Slam title September. Murray extended his record over Federer, the 17-time major champion, to 11-9, but it was his first victory over Federer in four Grand Slam matches. It will be Murray's sixth Grand Slam final and he is the first Briton to reach three Australian Open finals. "It's always tough against the Roger and he's at his best in the Grand Slams and when his back is against the wall, and (when) I was serving for the match at 6-5 he produced some great shots," Murray said. "I kept fighting and he made a few loose shots early in the fifth set and I stuck in." Murray began the better and had five break points in Federer's opening two service games, culminating in breaking the Swiss in the third game. The Scot was keeping on Federer's backhand and earned two more break points before Federer Andy Murray reacts after winning his men's semifinal against held in the seventh. Roger Federer at the Australian Open in Melbourne . Murray went on to take the opening set in 45 minutes, but Games went with serve to a tiebreaker Federer came back in the second. and Federer got the early jump on the back of two forehand errors. Murray got back one of the minibreaks but Federer seized on a mishit smash and rammed home a forehand winner for set point and levelled the match on an overhit forehand. Murray appeared to be having calf muscle trouble in the third set but he broke Federer in the sixth and went on to take a two sets to one lead with an ace. The Scot went down on the court wincing as he chased an early break in the fourth set, but it was Federer who struck. Murray fought off two break points but a wide forehand gave the Swiss a break. He got back the break in the eighth and broke Federer a second time to serve for the match, but was broken on a forehand error. Federer played a great tiebreaker with three mini-breaks to send the match into a fifth set. But Murray was too strong in the deciding set with two service breaks to take the match.

Vishnu Vardhan seeded No. 1 in top prize money tennis

Lawn Tennis Association and All India Tennis Association. Gujarat's Eetee Mehta is the top seeded woman player vying for the top prize of Rs 75,000. Prize money in the singles will be offered from the first round itself, with the first round losers gaining Rs 7,000 each. There will also be doubles competitions for men and women, besides mixed doubles. According to tournament director Uday Vora, the event has received in excess of 170 entries and the singles main draws for men and women will include 32 players. While 20 of the top players will get a direct entry into the main draw, there will be eight qualifiers, while four wild cards will be awarded. Qualifying rounds are to be played on January 26 and 27. While the mixed doubles finals are scheduled for February 1, the women singles and men's doubles finals would be held on February 2 and the men's singles final and women's doubles final would follow on February 3.

MUMBAI: Vishnu Vardhan was given the top billing in the men's singles event of the Rs 12-lakh All India Open men and women's tennis championships, beginning here from Monday. Vardhan, who is part of the rebel group demanding better playing conditions in Davis Cup from AITA and subsequently left out of the Indian squad to take on South Korea from February 1-3, will start as favourite in the men's singles event, where winner will pocket Rs 1.25 lakh. The week-long event is being organised by the suburban Juhu Vile Parle Gymkhana Club at their courts under the banner of Maharashtra State

Sara Errani-Roberta Vinci win Australian Open doubles

MELBOURNE: Sara Errani and Roberta Vinciwore down local hopes Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua 6-2, 36, 6-2 to become the first Italian pair to win the women's doubles at the Australian Open on Friday. It was a case of second time lucky at MelbournePark for the Italians, who were denied a maiden grand slam doubles title by Russians Svetlana Kuznetsova and Vera Zvonareva in the final last year. Errani and Vinci, wearing identical orange skirts and white singlets, captured the decisive break at 3-2 in the

'Injured' Sushil Kumar to skip Rhinos inflict first defeat on Wizards Dave Schultz tournament
NEW DELHI: Olympic silver medallist Sushil Kumar will have to wait for some more time to get back to action as the unhealed neck injury has forced him to opt out of the upcoming Dave Schultz tournament, where he was expected to defend his title. A 33-member Indian contingent had left for a training camp in the United States on last week to prepare for the event, beginning January 31. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) at that point had said that the Sushil would fly a week later due to some personal reasons. However, the star grappler on Friday confirmed that he would not be able to make it as the injury, he sustained during the London Olympics, is yet to heal completely. "I will not be able to participate in the Dave Schultz Cup due to an injury on my neck and right hand" Sushil said. "I am nursing this (neck) injury for a long time now. It hasn't healed completely. Also, there is some trouble on my right hand. I am currently undergoing physiotherapy," the 29-year-old grappler said. Sushil has not featured in any competition post Olympics due to the neck injury.

Sara Errani (L) and Roberta Vinci(R): Won the women's doubles third set, and clinched the title on the second matchpoint when Dellacqua clubbed a backhand wide of the tramlines. The Italians celebrated their third doubles title in the past four grand slams, after winning last year at Roland Garros and the US Open.

Punjab hand Mumbai their India, England teams arrive in Dharamsala amid huge fanfare fifth consecutive defeat in HIL
DHARAMSALA: Amid huge enthusiasm both India and England cricket teams arrived in Dharamshala for the fifth and final OneDay International to be held on Sunday. The two teams reached Gaggal Airport in the afternoon on Friday by a chartered flight and headed straight to their the five star residential complex.Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association officials and girls dressed in traditional Kinnauri outfits welcomed the members of the both teams at the airport. The HPCA president, Anurag Thakur welcomed the teams at the hotel. This is the first time that the hill town is hosting an international match. At an altitude of 1317 metres, the stadium is all set to provide a breathtaking view of the snow clad majestic Dhauladhar mountain ranges at the backdrop. The ODI was originally scheduled as a day-night fixture, but it was changed to a day match, schedule to start at 9 am to avoid a bone-chilling cold in the evening under floodlights. "It is going to be a historic day for the small hill town," said Thakur, who has been instrumental in setting up the ground here. Thakur also said that his next aim will be to hold a Test match here. India have already taken an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match ODI series and star players like India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who has been reportedly carrying an injury, may opt to sit out of the game. Other players who might give the game a miss are Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishant Sharma and Gautam Gambhir who are likely to make way for Amit Mishra, Chesteshwar Pujara and Ashok Dinda. Meanwhile, the English players are likely to enjoy playing in the "home like" cold conditions here and would look to reduce the margin in the series. JALANDHAR: Mumbai Magicians` woeful run in the inaugural Hockey India League continued as they suffered their fifth straight defeat in the tournament after losing 3-4 to Punjab Warriors in a league match here on Thursday. Mumbai started on a bright note and opened the scoring but lost the steam as the match progressed. Captain Sandeep Singh gave Mumbai the lead in 14th minute before a self goal by custodian P R Sreejesh (30th) level the scoreline. Four minutes later, Malak Singh neatly deflected from a crowded circle to hand Punjab a 2-1 lead at the end of second quarter. With their nose ahead, Punjab started the third quarter on an attacking note and extended their lead in the 39th minute when S V Sunil scored from a rebound after his first hit was blocked by rival goalkeeper Sreejesh. Australian Russel Ford then scored for the Punjab side in the 45th minute after he was beautifully fed by Malak Singh from the right. Australian Glenn Turner reduced the margin for Mumbai in the 54th minute after deceiving Punjab custodian Japp Stockmann from a one-to-one situation. Punjab also conceded a self goal in the 66th minute but the home team held their fort from there on to register their second win in the tournament. Mumbai was undone by poor penalty conversion rate as they utilised only one out of the five set pieces they earned in the match. By virtue of this win Punjab has garnered 15 points from six matches, but continue to languish at the fourth position behind UP Wizards who have same points from five games and better goal difference. There is no relief for Mumbai as they lie at the bottom of the table having lost all their five games.

RANCHI: Late strikes from Nick Wilson (67th min) and Ashley Jackson (69th min) helped Ranchi Rhinos beat Uttar Pradesh Wizards 3-1 in a Hockey India League match at the Astroturf Hockey stadium on Thursday. The Rhinos were the first to get off the block and raided the opposition citadel at regular intervals but their forwards' inability to keep their composure inside the striking circle did not pose any real threat to the Wizards goalkeeper. Skipper Moritz Fuerste (27th min) opened the account for the Rhinos from a lucky break as he managed to get a faintest of touch from Birendra Lakra's hopeful hit towards the Wizards goal from the 25-yard line, to send the crowd in rapture. The hosts, however, continued to waste chances at will, including six penalty corners in the first three quarters. They were made to pay for the lapse opportunities when Wizards' Luke Doerner converted a penalty corner in the dying minutes of the third quarter to level the score. Both the teams were guilty of not showing the precision required to score goals till Nick Wilson beat the Wizards' custodian with a reverse hit from the left flank just three minutes from the final hooter. Ashley Jackson then converted a penalty stroke in the dying moments of the game to complete the score line 3-1. With three wins and two losses, Ranchi Rhinos are now placed at second position with 17 points while UP Wizards, who suffered their first loss in the competition, have 15 points from five games. Ranchi Rhinos and UP Wizards will again square-off on January 26, this time at Wizards' home venue of Lucknow.

First six matches of HIL watched by 1.46 crore people

NEW DELHI: The inaugural edition of the Hero Hockey India League (HIL) has painted an extremely cheerful picture for the broadcasters so far with the first six matches of the tournament recording an impressive viewership of 1.46 crore. According to data shared by research agency TAM, HIL, at 1.46 crores, is 1.7 times the UEFA EURO 2012 reach for the first six matches, said a release from ESPN Software India Pvt Ltd. This is easily the best result achieved by any hockey league ever in the country. HIL has delivered an astonishing 24 times the average weekly reach of I-league. Even when compared with a high profile multination tournament like UEFA EURO 2012, HIL's TV performance is creditable. Speaking on the occasion, Aloke Malik, Managing Director, ESPN Software India Pvt Ltd, said, "We are absolutely delighted. Reach garnered by the broadcast of Hero Hockey India League in the first week vindicates the confidence we had in this tourney."

Rajasthan Royals appoint Upton as head Coach

JAIPUR: Indian cricket team's former mental conditioning coach, Paddy Upton has been appointed as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals. The 44-year-old mental conditioning coach of the South African cricket team will coach the Royals in the sixth season of the Pepsi Indian Premier League scheduled to be held in April. Upton had assisted former Indian coach Gary Kirsten as mental conditioning coach, instructing the Indian national cricket team that went on to win the 2011 ICC World Cup. The South African cricket team became the No. 1 test-playing nation under the tutelage of Kirsten and Upton. "It is indeed an honour for me to coach a dynamic team like Rajasthan Royals. It will be wonderful to work with Rahul once more," Upton said. "The team has some very talented players and going into the new season, I am looking at instilling fresh confidence into the team." Rajasthan Royals skipper Rahul Dravid said: "I have worked with Paddy in the past and greatly respect him for his knowledge and professionalism. We welcome him to Rajasthan Royals and look forward to working with him." Raghu Iyer, CEO, Rajasthan Royals, said, "We have been impressed with the way Paddy uses his immense talent to work with some of the best cricket teams and sportsmen in the world. We feel his presence will do wonders for Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming season."

IPL player auction 2013 to take place on February 3

NEW DELHI: The IPL Player Auction 2013 will be held on Sunday, February 3, 2013, at the ITC Grand Chola, Chennai. The proceedings will begin at 11:00 am. The auction will be conducted by Richard Madley, a professional auctioneer from England who has conducted each of the previous IPL player auctions. The proceedings will be telecast live on SONY SIX. "The auction signals the start of the sixth season of what has been a phenomenon. The 2013 edition of the IPL will feature a new title sponsor - PEPSI - and a new team SUNRISERS HYDERABAD. It will be interesting to see how the Franchises go about bolstering their respective line-ups prior to the tournament. The developments during the auction will be followed by fans from all over the country, and abroad, who cannot wait for the action to begin," Rajeev Shukla, Chairman, IPL, said. The opening match of the Pepsi IPL 2013 will take place on 3 April 2013 in Kolkata.

FaceWash cleans up vulgar and embarrassing content from your Facebook profile
LOS ANGELES: Researchers have developed a new app that can help Facebook users clean up vulgar or embarrassing pages from their profile. The "Facewash" app developed by researchers from Kent State University will search through a user's Facebook activity and content for items that the user may want to hide or delete. That could include status updates, photo captions, and comments users left or received as well as pages and links that were liked. "We realised that there's a lot of content that perhaps someone might not want a future employer to see," researcher Daniel Gur. Gur created the Facewash over the weekend along his two friends and fellow computer science majors - Camden Fullmer, and David Steinberg. The trio built the app in less than two days while at a hackathon at the University o f Pennsylvania. To use Facewash, users first need to go to its website, Facewa.sh, click "Get Started" and log into their Facebook account if they aren't logged in already. The Search for a term and the app starts looking through all of the user's profile content. If Facewash finds a match, it'll show it to the user and link the posts so the user can easily delete a status or remove a user will be prompted to click "Go to App" and then give the app permission to access the user's contents. picture. Facewash is still in beta phase so users may encounter minor glitches for some time. The recently launched app has already received more than 20,000 unique visitors, Gur said. The undergrads hope to keep expanding Facewash and keep adding features to it. Gur said the team wants to make Facewash capable of looking for content in other languages so more people can use it. "This is your face on the Internet, and you might need to wash it," Gur said.

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