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

STUdenT aGe
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2013

JKENG/2012/41612 Vol. 2 No: 54

Hagel make anti-India remarks; BJP calls it 'bizarre'

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No plan to withdraw Army from J&K: Singh

IN BRIEF

NEW DELHI: Government has no plan to withdraw the Army from Jammu and Kashmir as security forces are deployed according to the overall security situation, Rajya Sabha was informed on Wednesday. "No, sir. There is no move to withdraw the Army from Jammu and Kashmir," Minister of State for Home RPN Singh said, replying to a question on whether government was contemplating contd on page 2

Kamal warns Ratanpuri

SRINAGAR, FEB 27: Warning Ratanpuri not to compare Late Shiekh Mohammad Abdullah with Syed Ali Shah Geelani, National Conference senior leader Dr Shiekh Mustafa Kamal Wednesday said that Geelani is an unprincipled man while Shiek was a political leader. "I justify the detention of Syed Ali Shah Geelani because he is threat to peace. I wonder why (Geelani) contd on page 2

JAMMU: Unresolved issues between India and Pakistan have hampered the growth and economic development of Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Tuesday. "Unresolved political issues between India and Pakistan have further hampered the process of growth and economic development in Jammu and Kashmir," Abdullah said while interacting with students of Mass Media from Wilson College of Mumbai, who are here on

Unresolved Indo-Pak issues Economic Survey Highlights: hampering J&K growth: Omar FY13 growth seen at 7.6%to Chidambaram
a seven-day tour. He said uncertainty of peace was a major stumbling block for promotion of industries and tourism in the state. "When you are confronted with uncertainty and political instability, the normal process of progress is severely hampered," Abdullah said. In reply to a question regarding return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley, Abdullah said lack of sense of security among them forced them to leave the Valley and his government was working to create a situation which would help to recultivate this sense of safety in them. "We have initiated various measures and are implementing a special package with the assistance of the central government for the return of KPs to Valley," he said, adding, their return cannot be forced. On the issue of human rights, Abdullah mentioned his advocacy for constitution of Truth and Reconciliation Commission on contd on page 2 NEW DELHI: The economy is seen growing at around 7.6% in the next financial year, rebounding from a threeyear low of sub-7% growth in the 201112 fiscal year that ends on March 31, a finance ministry report said on Thursday. Growth in Asia's third-largest economy faltered to a three-year low of 6.1% in the December quarter. The report, published a day before Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee presents the union budget in parliament, pegs 2013-14 economic growth at 8.6%. Following are the highlights from the report: GROWTH * India's 2011-12 growth estimated at

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We Need to Rethink Our Stand on Pakistan

Obama calls Mursi ahead of Kerry's Cairo visit

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present India's 82nd budget, his 8th

F
6.9%. * The gross domestic product (GDP)

inance Minister P. Chidambaram was set to present India's 82nd national budget in the Lok Sabha Thursday that will be the eighth such personal exercise for him -- two short of the record of 10 set by former Prime Minister Morarji Desai. Since independence in August 1947, the country has seen a total of 25 ministers contd on page 2 growth is expected to pick up to about contd on page 2

J&K Legislature session likely to be stormy

JAMMU: The nearly monthlong budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislature, beginning Thursday, is likely to be a stormy affair with the Opposition all set to corner the NC-led government on a host of issues including Afzal Guru's hanging and killing of sarpanchs. The 26-day-long session will commence with Governor NN Vohra's address to the joint sitting of both the Legislative Assembly and the Legislaive Council. The opposition parties are gearing themselves to put the Omar Abdullah government on the mat on Guru's execution, the killings of sarpanches, the proposed police reforms bill and a number of other issues. The PDP, which has been demanding return of Guru's mortal remains to his family, is all set to raise the issue in the Assembly but may face opposition from the BJP. The BJP Legislature Party Leader Ashok Khajuria said his party will vehemently oppose raising of the Afzal Guru issue as it feels the government has done the right thing. "We will raise issues related contd on page 2

J&K govt not interested in establishing Panchayati Raj: AJKPC

JAMMU: An apex body of Panchayats on Wednesday alleged that Jammu and Kashmir government is "not sincere" in its efforts to protect Panches and Sarpanches and wanted them to resign to bring an end to the institution's functioning in the state. "The state government is not sincere in providing security to Panches and Sarpanches as they don't want to establish Panchayati Raj system in J&K," Chairman, All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC), Shafiq Mir said. "Five Panches and Sarpanches have been killed in the last one year and till now government has not been able to find out the killers of even one of them. They want that Panches and Sarpanches should resign under threat so that this institution ends once and for all in the state," Mir alleged. contd on page 2

Vigil along LoC beefed up: AK Antony

NEW DELHI: Vigil along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir has been stepped up following last month's ambush by Pakistani Army on Indian troops in which two jawans were killed, government told the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. "On Jan 8, a Pak Border Action Team ambushed our patrol party in Krishna Ghati, Mendhar Sector in which Lance Naik Sudhakar Singh and Lance Naik Hemraj were killed. Lance Naik Hemraj was found beheaded and both bodies were mutilated," Defence Minister AK Antony said. In a written reply, he said that the weapons of the two jawans were also taken by Pakistani Army. On whether Government has taken up the issue with their Pakistani counterpart, Antony said a Brigade-level Flag Meeting of both the sides was held on Jan 14. "The issue was protested through contd on page 2

Kashmir Valley receives fresh snowfall

SRINAGAR: The Kashmir valley was lashed by overnight rains and received fresh snowfall in the morning, bringing down the night as well as the day temperatures. The rainfall caused water logging at many places, including the areas in the commercial hub of Lal Chowk. According to a MeT Department official, Srinagar received snowfall and rains equivalent to 20.2 mm rain since yesterday, while Qazigund the gateway town to the Valley received 40.4 mm of rains. Pahalgam in south Kashmir received snowfall equivalent to 26.6 mm of rainfall, followed by Kupwara (28.4 mm), Kokernag (20.0 mm) and Gulmarg skiing resort (12.6 mm) in north Kashmir, the official said. Due to snowfall, the mercury has come down, which however, stayed above the freezing point in most parts of the Valley including the summer capital Srinagar, he said. The mercury in Gulmarg settled at a minimum contd on page 2

3rd position in AIEEA

SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 27: The SKUAST-K, Srinagar has achieved a great feat as for the first time in its history, it bagged third position in AIEEA-2012 with 27 scholars of the university qualifying the All India Entrance Examination for Admission to PG and award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). SKUAST-K contd on page 2

JPC to probe chopper deal

NEW DELHI:A Joint Parliamentary Committee will probe the controversial chopper deal, with the government today asserting that there will be "no cover up" as it was determined to go to the root of the scam and give maximum contd on page 2

19 dead, 12 critically injured in Kolkata market fire, Mamata sniffs sabotage

KOLKOTA'FEB 27:At least 19 people were killed in Kolkata on Wednesday when a fire engulfed a multi-storey market complex. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hinted at sabotage as a possible cause. A dozen people were also critically injured in the fire that broke out at about 4 am in Sealdah in central Kolkata when many victims were asleep. Even as 26 fire tenders battled the leaping flames and firemen scrambled to rescue people, many were feared trapped inside the market that houses shops and paper godowns. Fire Services Minister Javed Khan said the complex was illegally built during the erstwhile Left Front regime and that most entry and exit gates were locked, trapping people. Kolkata Mayor Sovon Chatterjee said the fire took a long time to douse as the lanes leading to the market were narrow and dingy. Locals alleged that the death toll could be more. The chief minister ordered an enquiry and announced compensation of Rs.2 lakh to the kin of each of the dead and Rs.50,000 to each injured person. "The probe will be jointly done by police, fire department and municipal corporation. A report is to be submitted in three days. "On the basis of the report, action will be taken," Banerjee said at the site. Observing that the market was prone to fire because a large number of inflammable objects were stored, she also hinted at sabotage. "Why has this incident happened? There are so many inflammable objects that if anybody intentionally lit a small fire, it could turn into a major fire. There can be (a) conspiracy, sabotage. The probe will look into all aspects," she said. Banerjee contd on page 2

Cong likely to go it alone in Karnataka

NEW DELHI, FEB 27: Apparently seeking to encash on the troubles in the BJP in Karnataka, Congress today gave signals of going it alone, ruling out an alliance with the H D Deve Gowda's JD-S in the state where assembly polls are due soon. Despite chief ministerial aspirants galore in Karnataka, the AICC would neither project any candidate in the assembly polls nor has it plans to field any MP in the polls, highly- placed party sources said. The statement is significant given the fact that several senior leaders and union ministers contd on page 2

India lost 10% of BPO business in 5 years

NEW DELHI, FEB 27: India has lost about 10 per cent share of the global BPO market in the last five years to destinations like China, the Philippines and Brazil, raising concerns for the USD 20billion Indian BPO industry. The pre-budget Economic Survey 2012-13, which was tabled in Parliament today, said India faces stiff competition from several emerging countries in the BPO sector. It called for information campaigns by the industry to dispel the myths and fears about outsourcing in the developed economies. Countries like Malaysia, China and the Philippines in Asia; Egypt and Morocco in North Africa; Brazil, Mexico, Chile and Columbia in Latin America; and Poland and Ireland in Europe are emerging as attractive destinations for voice contracts, posing a significant threat to Indian firms, it said. "According to Nasscom, in the last five years, India has lost about 10 per cent market share to the rest of the world in the world BPO space, most of which is in the voice contract segment," it said. According to industry body Nasscom, in FY13, IT services would account for USD 50 billion, while Business Process Management (BPM or BPO) and Engineering services would contribute USD 20 billion and USD 10 billion, respectively. In terms of competition, though China faces challenges like language proficiency, it is making large investments in the mission mode to increase English proficiency. "Thus, (China) may eventually emerge as a threat to India," it added. The Philippines, which is the second largest destination for outsourcing, is also a serious competitor having developed contd on page 2

India puts world's first smartphone in space

LONDON: India has become the world's first country to launch a smartphone into space - loaded with a number of experimental 'Apps', some serious and some just for fun. The British-built Strand-1 spacecraft, developed by scientists in Surrey, was sent into orbit from contd on page 2

India's global ranking for agricultural-exports improves to 10th

NEW DELHI: India has improved its position in agricultural and food exports to 10th globally, helped by policy impetus, the Economic Survey said today. "In recent years, the policy impetus by the government has provided much required stability to agri exports," said the Survey for 2012-13. However, the document, tabled in Parliament, did not state the earlier ranking. It said that as per World Trade Organization data, global contd on page 2

Stranded people from Kargil protest, Noted Shaiva scholar V N Jotshi passes away BJYM demands immediate air lifting
JAMMU FEB 28: More than 700 stranded passengers from Kargil District along with the workers of Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) staged a protest demonstration in Jammu on Wednesday. These people from Kargil who are stranded for the last 20 days in Jammu have appealed the government to urgently take steps to air lift them to Kargil. They further said that they have at present nothing left to subsist upon and have urged the authorities to provide the lodging and food to them as JAMMU: One of the most profound scholars and preachers of Kashmir Shaivism Vish Nath jotshi(Bhat) passed away on Tuesday peacefully. He was seventy five. Born at Bijebehara in District Anantnag he had attained incredible mastery over many aspects of Kashmir Shaivism. He had learned in detail the philosophical and esoteric subtleties of the profound philosophy of absolute monism of Kashmir Shaiva philosophy at the feet of such learned masters like Dr. Srikanth Raina. In his childhood he had received personal grace from the renowned

J&K BJYM President addressing media person during a protest held by stranded people from Kargil at Jammu. they are at the brink of starvation. While giving vent to their anguish they said that the air fare to Leh is being charged at exorbitant rate of Rupees twenty thousand which is impossible for them to pay. The contd on page 2

saint scholar Swami Vidhadhar ji Maharaj. After attaining a degree in arts he joined the Accounts Department where by dint of his hard work he retired as chief financial advisor in Health Department.

Jotshi Ji will be remembered for regularily conducting classes and seminars on Kashmir Shaivism where he imparted teaching of the Shaiva philosophy to many students and aspirants. To enable the young scholars in understanding the philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism he wrote number of books in easy language. His articles on the different aspects of Shaiva philosophy have been published in reputed journals of the country. A hidden yogi he was down to earth and represented one of the last surviving Guru- Shishya traditions of thousands contd on page 2

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STUDENT AGE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2013

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"STRaND-1 from SSC and SSTL is an example of the real synergy of academic research linked to commercial development and exploitation that is the hallmark of Surrey," Professor Sir Martin Sweeting, SSC Director and also Executive Chairman of SSTL, said. "This launch is SSTL's first with ISRO, and I am looking forward to exploring opportunities for further launches and a wider collaboration on space projects in the future," Martin said in a statement. During the first phase of the mission, STRaND-1 will be controlled by the satellite's attitude control system and a new high-speed linuxbased CubeSat computer. During phase two the STRaND-1 team plan to switch many of the satellite's in-orbit operations to the smartphone, a Google Nexus One which uses the Android operating system, thereby tests the capabilities of many standard smartphone components for a space environment. The smartphone has also been loaded with a number of experimental "Apps", some serious and some just for fun. The Scream in Space app was developed by Cambridge University Space Flight and will make full use of the smartphone's speakers. Testing the theory 'in space no-one can hear you scream, made popular in the 1979 film 'Alien', the app will play videos of the best screams while in orbit and screams will be recorded using the smartphone's own microphone. geographical diversities. "We have three different regions of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh and there are subregions within the regions with variegated cultures, dialects and heritage," he said. seven budgets each. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the country's fourth finance minister T.T. Krishnamachari have presented six budgets each. The next in line in terms of number of budgets presented are R. Venkataraman and H.M. Patel with three Budgets each, while Jaswant Singh, V.P. Singh, C. Subramaniam, John Mathai and R.K. Shanmukham Chetty have two each to their credit. Among those who have presented one budget each all as prime ministers holding additional charge of the finance portfolio are Jawaharlal Nehru, his daughter Indira Gandhi and his grandson Rajiv Gandhi. These apart, Charan Singh, N.D. Tiwari, Madhu Dandavate, S.B. Chavan and Sachindra Chaudhuri have also presented one budget each. Among the 25 finance ministers since independence, the tenures of two leaders holding the finance portfolio -- Inder Kumar Gujral and Hemvati Nandan Bahugana -- did not afford them the pleasure of presenting a national budget. said. The issue was also taken up with Pakistan through diplomatic channels. Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai had summoned Pakistan High Commissioner Salman Bashir on Jan 9 and lodged a strong protest on the actions of the Pakistan Army. He also conveyed that a barbaric act of mutilation of the bodies of our soldiers is unacceptable and against the ethos of soldiering, Antony said. On efforts taken made by India to ensure that such incidents do not happen in future, he said, "Heightened vigil is being maintained along the Line of Control in J&K and surveillance, including human intelligence and technical intelligence, has been further enhanced." To another question, Antony said that 93 ceasefire violations have been reported along the LoC by Pakistan in year 2012. with H D Deve Gowda's party as it wants to avoid division of secular votes. While G Parameswar is the PCC chief, former deputy chief minister Siddharamaiah, a friendturned foe of Deve Gowda, is the CLP leader. Seeking to woo the influential Lingayat community ahead of Karnataka Assembly elections, Congress has recently made Veerana A Mathikatti, a prominent Lingayat leader from north Karnataka as head of the party's Campaign Committee. Former minister D K Shivakumar, a close associate of senior leader S M Krishna, has been made cochairman of the committee.

Contd. from page 1...

No plan to ....
to withdraw the Army from the border state. The Minister said the deployment of security forces at any point of time is a matter of review of the threat perception at the highest operational levels in the Central and state governments. Singh said the quantum of security forces and its deployment would vary according to the overall security situation. "The government of India is always open to talk to all groups of different shades of opinion, including the separatists who eschew the path of violence," he said. is conducted every year by Indian Council of Agricultural Research across the Country. The number of JRFs produced in the examinations is taken as the yardsticks to assess the performance and brand value of the Universities. Every year three Universities with highest JRF qualifications are felicitated by ICAR. In recognition to this brilliant achievement, Dr. Tej Partap, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K received a memento from Sharad Pawar, Union Minister for Agriculture & Food Processing, at New Delhi during the recently concluded Conference of ViceChancellor's of Agricultural Universities of the country.

Economic Survey....
7.6% in 2012-13. * GDP growth seen rising to 8.6% in 2013-14 as agricultural, services and industrial sectors are expected to perform well. * Industrial growth pegged at 4-5%, expected to improve as economic growth picks up pace. * Foreign trade to remain a key driver of growth. * Foreign exchange reserves enhanced by USD 6.7 billion from USD 304.8 billion at end-March 2011 to USD 311.5 billion at endSeptember 2011, covering nearly the entire external debt stock. INFLATION * The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) remained persistently high throughout 2011 due to high crude and global commodity prices, but is expected to touch 6.5% to 7% by March 2012. * Indian inflation may further moderate during 2012-13 due to the earlier tightening of monetary policy and other fiscal measures. * There is scope to further sharpen monetary policy and macro prudential tools to deal with asset price bubbles in real estate and stock markets. FISCAL DEFICIT * With a sharp deceleration in the real GDP growth, a slippage is likely in the deficit targets for 201112. * There is no room for fiscal expansion and the fiscal deficit is expected to be lowered from 4.7% of GDP in 2010-11 to 3% in the latter part of the twelfth plan period that runs from April 2012 to March 2017. * Fiscal deficit in 2012-13 seen at 4.1% of GDP and in 2013-14 at 3.5%, as per the twelfth plan projections. CONSOLIDATION * Fiscal consolidation back on track, savings and capital formation to rise. * With the easing of inflationary pressures in the months to come, there could be a cut in policy rates by the RBI, which should encourage investment activity and have a positive impact on growth. GLOBAL SCENARIO * Concerted efforts will be needed through Group of 20 countries (G20) and other forums to restore stability and renewed global growth.

Paravet Association calls on Gurezi, projects demands

'Govt keen to tackle unemployment problem' JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Minister of State for Animal and Sheep Husbandry, Mr. Nazir Ahmad Gurezi has said that the Government was keen to tackle the unemployment problem in the State, saying that various schemes, like Sheri-e-Kashmir Employment and Welfare Programme for Youth (SKEWPY), Seed Capital Scheme and many others have been introduced to create employment opportunities for the youth. The Minister was interacting with a delegation of Paravet Association Jammu (PAJ) who called on him here today. The deputation, led by Member Legislative Council, Dr. Shahnaz Gania, projected the demands of the trained Paravet Stock Assistant Diploma Holders before the Minister. The deputation submitted a memorandum demanding weightage of 60 points to trained Paravet Stock Assistant Diploma Holders who have apply against the related vacancies being advertised through State Service Selection Recruitment Board (SSRB). The Minister gave a patient hearing and assured that the matter would be taken up with the concerned on priority. He directed the Secretary, Animal and Sheep Husbandry department to submit a proposal for amendment in Subordinate Service (Non-Gazetted) Recruitment Rules of the department to remove inconsistencies, if any. He asked the trained Paravet Stock Assistant Diploma holders to utilize their expertise in the private sector which will not only pave way for their handsome earning but also benefit the live stock rearers.

Kamal warns ....

complains of ill health when detained but as soon as he comes out and gives disturbing protest calendars he seems fit and fine," Kamal told Srinagar based news agency CNS and added that Geelani is the product of Congress party which always stabbed in the back of National Conference. National Conference additional general secretary, Shiekh Mustafa Kamal termed Congress party and Syed Ali Shah Geelani as the two faces of the same coin stated that both are not trust worthy as both can go to any extent for their personal gains. "Ghulam Nabi Ratanpuri doesn't know about the history. How dare he to compare Late Shiekh Mohammad Abdullah with Geelani ! Shiekh was a great leader while as Geelani is an unscrupulous element who wants to put Kashmir on fire. Geelani has no principles and he loves death and destruction," Kamal said. He said his father Late Shiekh Mohammad Abdullah was lodged in prison because he was fighting for Kahmir cause while as Geelani is threat to peace and anti-Kahmiri. "How can we forget he was supported by Congress at one time and there was also a time when he used to wander around Mujahid Manzil to seek the blessings of Shiekh Mohammad Abdullah," Kamal said and added that for him Congress and Geelani or his organization Jamat-e-Islami is same. Claiming that time will come soon when India will be compelled to withdraw it army from Kashmir, Kamal said that as long as Indian and Pakistani Armies are present in both parts of Kashmir, the solution of Kashmir seems dark. "Army must be withdrawn from both parts of Kashmir in the interest of people. This will happen when we will secure Autonomy for the state and we are going to press for this demand in coming days," he said. Appealing people not to make clamour over proposed Police Bill-2013, Kamal said the bill has been put in public domain and it will be passed only after seeking public opinion and all the anti-people clauses will be redrafted.

India lost....
both the hardware and software segments of IT. Outsourcing has become a national issue in many developed countries like the US and the UK, who are supporting the local BPO industry through various means. "In such a situation, the Indian BPO industry needs to gear up to address the challenges. Information campaigns to dispel the myths and fears about outsourcing needs to be undertaken by the industry in the developed economies," it said. In the overall ITand ITenabled services space, new competitors like China, Israel and the Philippines have emerged in recent years. Between 2005 and 2011, the annual average growth of IT-ITeS services was 69 per cent in the Philippines, 28 per cent in Sri Lanka, 59 per cent in Ukraine, 27 per cent in the Russian Federation, 37 per cent in Argentina and 35 per cent in Costa Rica. "Even if in some cases the export values are relatively low, the average annual growth of computer services in these economies is well above the average of the top exporters," it said.

JPC to probe....
punishment to the guilty. The setting up of the 30member JPC was decided through a government motion passed by the Rajya Sabha after a walkout by members of most of Opposition parties like BJP, JD(U), Trinamool Congress, CPI and AGP. Moving the motion, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamal Nath said the JPC would submit its report within three months of its first sitting and rejected the Opposition contention that the decision would amount to putting the issue on the backburner. He attacked the Opposition for walking out, saying they were "running away". Earlier, the House saw a debate during which the opposition accused the government of inaction for over a year into the Rs 3,600 crore deal for 12 helicopters with AgustaWestland which has got into a controversy after allegations that kickbacks to the tune of Rs 362 crore were paid to bag it. Replying to the debate, Defence Minister A K Antony asserted that there would be no "cover up" and the government was determined to go to the "root of the scam". Insisting that there was no inaction on his part, he said he ordered the CBI probe as soon as reports came about the arrest of Giuseppe Orsi, CEO of AgustaWestland's parent company Finmeccanica in Italy. Noting that CBI has filed a Preliminary Enquiry and named 11 individuals, including former Air Chief S P Tyagi, Antony expressed confidence that the probe by the agency along with the one in Italy will bring out the truth.

Kashmir Valley....
of minus 6.0 degrees Celsius, while Kupwara registerd a minimum of minus 0.5 degree Celsius, he added. The official said Kargil was the coldest place in the state at minus 9.6 degrees Celsius and Leh town recorded a low of minus 3.6 degrees Celsius. Due to fresh snowfall and landslides at many places along the arterial route, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been closed for vehicular traffic today. The 294-km highway, the only all-weather road link between the Valley and rest of the country, was closed this morning after overnight rains and fresh snowfall, a spokesman of the Traffic Department said. He said rainfall was hampering efforts of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and other concerned agencies to clear the road but said traffic can be allowed later today or tomorrow if "weather conditions permit".

J&K Legislature ....

to west Pakistani refugees, PoK refugees and border dwellers apart from empowerment of the Panchayats in the state," he said. The Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) has threatened to launch a protest demonstration outside the Assembly tomorrow in support of the demands of migrants from Jammu region. The Annual Financial Statements of Expenditure for the year 2012-13 will be presented on March 6, Mohammad Ramzan, J&K Legislative Secretary, told a news agency. "53 Legislators have filed 531 starred and 471 unstarred questions. There are 68 resolutions moved by 21 members," he said. Apart from this, there is a total number of 60 private members bills, out of which three are for consideration and passing, Ramzan said.

India's global ....

exports and imports of agricultural and food products in 2011 stood at USD 1.66 trillion and USD 1.82 trillion respectively. India's share in this is 2.07 per cent and 1.24 per cent respectively. In view of record domestic foodgrains production, the government had lifted the ban on export of rice and wheat in September 2011 from private trade. Later in mid-2012, the government allowed export of wheat from its own godowns. "Though these measures are in the right direction, a consistent long-term trade policy with tariff in a narrow band may be required for India to acquire international presence in commodities wherein it has comparative advantage," the Survey said. In view of sufficient stocks of foodgrains in the central pool, the government has allowed exports of 4.5 million tonne of wheat from the central pool stock of the FCI through central publicsector undertakings and placed export of wheat and rice under open general licence ( OGL). Permission to export wheat products up to 6.50 lakh tonne through customs Electronic Data Interchange ports on private account has also been extended up to 31 March 2013. Last year, the country had surpassed Thailand to become world's top rice exporter. The domestic foodgrains production stood at a record 259.32 million tonne in 2011-12.

19 dead, 12 ....
visited the injured at the state-run NRS Medical College and Hospital. "At least 19 people have been killed so far," an officer at the police control room said. "We will take action against the market authorities for not having any fire safety arrangements," Minister Khan said. Surjya Kanta Mishra of the Communist Party of India-Marxist demanded a probe. "This is not the time to play the blame game. An immediate and impartial probe must be initiated and the administration must seriously look into how many buildings there are vulnerable to fire," he said.

Stranded people ....

protest demonstration was led by the BJYM State President Ravinder Raina. He criticized the government for its careless and insensitive attitude towards the Kargil and Ladakh regions. Adding further Raina said that the government should realize that it should not ignore any region in the State as it will send wrong signals about the commitment of the government to provide equal attention to the problems of the suffering masses. Raina further mentioned that the authorities should address the problems of these people who are facing untold hardships for the last four weeks and nobody from the government has come to assuage their problems. The BJYM along with the stranded passengers have threatened to Gherao the Secretariat if immediate steps are not taken to arrange immediate airlifting of these stranded passengers.

J&K govt not ....

The agitated Panches and Sarpanches here today protested against the killing of Javed Ahmed Wani, a sarpanch affiliated to the National Conference in Baramulla district, who was killed by the suspected militants on Sunday. They tried to march towards the Civil Secretariat but were dispersed by the police personnel and were not allowed to move forward. Mir said that if the government failed to implement 73rd amendment of Indian Constitution and empowered the Panches and Sarpanches, the outfit will continue its protest demonstrations. Meanwhile, general secretary of the organisation Anil Sharma said that they won't resign from their posts and instead will fight for their rights. "If the government thinks that we will fear and resign they are wrong, we won't do it and fight for our genuine rights," Sharma said.

ADMISSION BOOKING 2013

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

India puts world's....

Sriharikota in India to test the capabilities of many standard smartphone components for a space environment. Launched into a 785 km Sun-synchronous orbit on Indian Space Research Organisation ISRO's PSLV launcher on Monday, the spacecraft is an innovative 3U CubeSat weighing 4.3 kg and is the world's first "phonesat" to go into orbit, as well as the first UK CubeSat to be launched. Developed by a team from the University of Surrey's Surrey Space Centre (SSC) and Surrey Satellite Technology Limited (SSTL), STRaND-1 is a training and demonstration mission, designed to test commercial off-the-shelf technologies in space.

RAINA EDUCATION CONSULTANCY

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

Chidambaram to....
hold the finance portfolio. It has also seen 81 budgets -65 normal annual budgets, 12 interim budgets and four special-occasion budgetary measures, also called minibudgets. Among them, Morarji Desai presented eight normal and two interim budgets, which had taken his tally to a record 10 -- this remains unchallenged so far. Thursday will see Chidambaram equal the eight-budget track record of his predecessor, Pranab Mukherjee, who is now president. Chidambaram, thus, will surpass Yashwant Sinha, Y.B. Chavan and C.D. Deshmukh who all presented

Cong likely ....

from the state are desirous of becoming the next chief minister amid talk that the party's stock has risen in the southern state following troubles in the ruling BJP. The former chief ministers from the state who are currently MPs or Union ministers include S M Krishna, Dharam Singh and M Veerappa Moily. Krishna has recently been made a special invitee to the Congress working committee. Union minister Mallikarjun Kharge is a former Karnataka PCC chief who had been a minister in the state for several years. A section of the party has been advocating an alliance

Noted Shaiva ....

of years' old Shaivite philosophy. His death which is a big loss to the religo-cultural mosaic has been widely mourned by scholars, intellectuals and eminent people from the State. His cremation was attended by thousands of people drawn from all walks of life. He is survived by two sons and two daughters. Many leading social and cultural organizations have expressed deep loss over his demise.

3rd position ....

made it to third position with 27 students of varsity awarded JRF only after G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar (32) and University of Agricultural Sciences. Bengaluru (28). All India Entrance Examination for Admission to PG and award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)

Unresolved Indo....
South Africa model to resolve issues associated with militancy and violence. The Chief Minister said Jammu and Kashmir presented a mosaic of cultural and

Vigil along ....

the DGMO talks on Jan 9 and 16, Brigade Commander-level Flag Meeting at Chakan Da Bagh on Jan 14 and hotline messages at the local levels," he

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Solar Power Policy in offing

Amendment on AFSPA only after reviewing ground reality: Govt

NEW DELHI: The government on Wednesday said any decision on amending the Armed Forces (Special) Powers Act will be taken only after taking into consideration the ground reality where it is in force and no time frame can be given on the issue of changing the controversial legislation. Minister of State for Home Mullappally Ramachandran said the issue of repealing/amending AFSPA has been under consideration of the government and Justice Jeevan Reddy Committee and the Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) have also made certain recommendations on the subject. "Now the Group of Ministers has to take a final decision on the ARC recommendation. On direction of the GoM, comments of the state governments concerned on the ARC recommendation have been called for. for. "On such security-related issued, all factors, including the ground reality are taken into consideration before taking a decision and hence no time limit can be specified," Ramachandran told Rajya Sabha. Several groups and political parties in Jammu and Kashmir and north eastern region have been demanding either repeal or amendment to AFSPA which has been in force in some of the disturbed regions in the country.

NEWS IN BOX

Green energy production receives momentum: Omar

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27 Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah has said that harnessing of green energy has been given considerable fillip by his government and generation of solar, thermal and wind power is receiving due attention alongwith launch of hydro electric projects in the State. Omar Abdullah said that the interest of investors in the sector of New and Renewable Energy (N&RE) is highly encouraging and it will get further boost by the J&K State Solar Power Policy which is in offing. Taking presentation about the generation potential of solar power in Ladakh and Jammu regions at a meeting he chaired here today, the Chief Minister said that while State Power Development Corporation is working on execution of medium and mega hydro electric projects, the Department of Science and Technology is looking after implementation of micro power projects including those in N&RE sector. "The target before the government is to transform Jammu and Kashmir from energy deficit State to power sufficient one within next 7 to 10 years", he said adding that projects under Joint Venture, IPP and PPP mode already approved by the government would catapult the indigenous production of hydro power in the State. Omar Abdullah said that the potential of solar, thermal and wind energy generation has been identified to a greater extent and its harnessing has been put on focus by the government. He said various schemes have been approved with the assistance of Union Ministry for N&RE and many are in the pipeline. It was stated on the occasion that Ladakh region alone has potential of generating 12000 MWs of solar energy. It has been identified that 86900 kilometers of land is receiving sunshine in the area and the radiation level in Ladakh is 6 to 7 kWh/m /day which is the best in the country. It was also informed that the photovoltaic technology in which light energy is converted into electricity is best suited for harnessing solar energy in Ladakh region. The meeting also discussed launching of solar power projects in the feasible areas of Jammu region and implementing hydro electric schemes in Kashmir and Chenab Valley areas. The meeting among other was attended by Minister of State for Science and Technology, Feroz Ahmad Khan, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas, Principal Secretary Power Development Department, A. K. Mehta, Commissioner Secretary Science and Technology, Bipul Pathak and various other senior officers.

Sant Gora ji Maharaj a preeminent saint: Tara Chand

Vikar donates ambulances for Banihal, Ukharal

BANIHAL, FEBRUARY 27: The Minister of State for Technical Education, Power, CAPD and Information Vikar Rasool today inaugurated the two ambulances for Banihal and Ukharal in a function at Sub District Hospital(SDH) Banihal. General Manager IRCON D.P.Choudhary, AGMs, K.A. Rao, Kewal Ramani Kumar DGM Finance, M.N. Joshi, DGM Jasvinder Singh Saini, Tehsildar Banihal, Dr. Usman Khan, BMO Banihal and BMO Ukhral were also present on the occasion . The ambulances and medical equipments are donated by IRCON International Ltd. Banihal under Corporate Social Responsibility Programme. Vakar Rasool appreciated the role of IRCON International Ltd Banihal for their vital contribution to meet the health care problems in District Ramban by donated the Ambulances and the other Health care related equipments in which includes 10 Nos. digital microscopes ,05 Nos ECG Machines 05 No. Ultra sound machines and laboratory equipments for Ramban, Banihal, Gool, Mangit, Ukhral, Khari and Ramsoo etc. Minister said that company also contributed in other development works for betterment of masses by construct Roads, Water Tubewells and Shelter sheds in the area . DP Choudhary apprised the Minister the Company also distributed 25 Nos solar lights,School Bags with stationary and provide the furniture and computers, Generator and electrical items for ITI Banihal. The company has also constructed the toilet blocks in 18 schools and skill development programmes for youth started by the company in area. Later, Minister also visit the SDH Banihal and take the stock of facilities being provided by the Hospital authorities to outdoor and indoor patients.

Chief Vigilance Commissioner calls on Governor

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Mr. Kuldeep Khoda, Chief Vigilance Commissioner, State Vigilance Commission, called on N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan, here today. During their discussions, the Governor urged Mr. Khoda to take well considered steps to place the State Vigilance Commission on a sound footing and ensure its orderly functioning as soon as possible. The Governor stressed that the effective functioning of statutory and constitutional institutions has a vital bearing on the enhancement of accountability and good governance. This was Mr. Khoda's first meeting with the Governor after he recently took over as the Chief Vigilance Commissioner. The Governor wished Mr. Khoda a very successful tenure ahead.

Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand addressing public gathering on birth anniversary function of Sant Sri Gora Ji Maharaj at Jammu. JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27 Describing Sant Sri Gora Ji Maharaj as a preeminent saint of his time, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand said that great saints and seers of the country have shown the righteous way of living based on mutual coexistence, love and devotion to the supreme lord. He said spiritual Gurus through their teachings fought against the social evils and dogmas prevalent in the society and have preached the message of equality and brotherhood in society. Mr. Tara Chand was addressing birth anniversary function of Sant Sri Gora Ji Maharaj, here today. The function was organised by Prajapati(Kumhar) Sabha, Jammu. Former Minister Mr. R.S. Chib, MLA, Bishnah Mr. Ashwani Sharma and other prominent members of the community attended the function. President, Mr. Ayodhya Kumar Manawa conducted the proceedings at the event. Calling upon civil society at large to follow the path shown by our great Munis and Rishis, the Deputy Chief Minister said that real tribute to the saints is to adopt their teachings in life and work for establishing an egalitarian society. He said saints besides preaching for a spiritual way of living, also taught for establishing a class less society in which all human beings are equal before the god and nobody is supreme by birth. Listing various social sector schemes launched by the government, Tara Chand said with the active support of central government a number of welfare schemes have been launched in the state, so as to provide succor to those living below poverty line. "The government is committed to work ameliorate the lot of the marginalized and all our efforts are afoot to take the development revolution to all nooks and corners of the state," he added. The Sabha presented a charter of demands to the Deputy Chief Minister. The demands inter alia include, grant of scholarships to students, grant of OBC certificates, Loan to artisans and community hall. The Deputy Chief Minister assured that the demands of the community would be projected at the right forum and all genuine demands would be addressed in a phased manner.

Salman visits residence of slain Sarpanchs home, assures all possible help to family
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Mr. Salman Sagar, Ex-Mayor SMC today went to the home of Javid Ahmed Wani, the Sarpanch who was killed by un identified persons at Kalantra in Baramulla district some days back. While condoling with the family members, Salman described Javid as a political activist who always worked for the upliftment of the downtrodden and weaker sections of the society. He said that the slain leader had contributed immensely in creating awareness among the people about the utility of democratic institutions in the area and his contribution will be remembered for long. While praying for eternal peace to the departed soul, Salman assured every possible help to the family and hoped that they would be able to bear irreparable loss.

Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission Charitable Hospital Management Committee meets Governor
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: A deputation of the Management Committee of the Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission Charitable Hospital, Ambphalla, Jammu, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan, here today. The 6-member deputation led by Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta, MLA and President of the Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission Charitable Hospital, briefed the Governor about the functioning of the Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission Charitable Hospital, diagnostic and treatment facilities already made available and those in the pipeline. Prof. Gupta also briefed the Governor about the expansion plans of the Hospital Complex and presented a memento to the Governor on this occasion. The Governor gave a patient hearing to the deputationists and assured all possible support to the organization in its initiatives of providing medicare facilities to the people, particularly those belonging to the less advantaged segments. The deputation comprised Yashpal Puri, Mr. Amar Chand Gupta, Mr. Atma Saroop Gupta, Dr. M. P. Gupta and B. S. Jamwal.

KHARA dismayed with Union Rail Budget

SRINAGAR, FEB 27: The Valley hoteliers have expressed disappointment over the rail budget announced by the government of India on Tuesday saying their recommendations have been ignored. Kashmir Hotels and Restaurant Association (KHARA) said the rail budget has nothing for Jammu and Kashmir especially for Valley. "There is nothing new in the rail budget for our state. GoI has not taken into consideration the importance of railways for the promotion of tourism sector in Kashmir. We have proposed many suggestions to government in railway for the promotion of tourism sector but all were ignored," KHARA President Showkat Chowdhary told CNS. KHARA sad they had proposed special holiday trains to Jammu for travelers visiting Kashmir. "Every visitor to Kashmir can't afford to travel by air. We wanted that there should be special holiday packages for the visitors traveling the State by train. It would have encouraged many people to visit our state in the presence of Kashmir specific holiday packages," said Chowdhary. He said KHARA had also demanded increasing the frequency of trains to Jammu from April to September. "We have a good rush of tourists during peak summer season. Many tourists want to travel via train but they are forced to cancel their programs due to the increased bookings of the passengers for train during the peak season. More frequent trains to Jammu offering special concession would have encouraged more tourists to visit our state," said KHARA President. He said during the peak season of tourism in Kashmir, hoteliers had sought concessions on rail fares bound for Jammu. KHARA also expressed dismay at GoI's rejection of rail coach factory in Jammu & Kashmir proposed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Notably, Chief Minister's demand for setting up a rail coach factory in J&K to overcome industrial backwardness and economic shortcomings in the state has not been met in Tuesday's rail budget."GoI has rejected even the demand of Chief Minister. The budget has total disappointed tourism fraternity," said Chowdhary.

Slum areas to get civic facilities under RAY: Bhalla

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: The slum areas in Jammu city would soon have all civic facilities for which a survey is being conducted under the Rajiv Awas Yojna (RAY). The information was given at a meeting chaired by Minister for Housing, Horticulture and Culture Mr. Raman Bhalla has said The Minister informed that under the first phase the flagship scheme envisaging development of civic facilities in slum area have been launched in six cities of Jammu, Kathua, Udhampur, Anantnag, Baramulla and Srinagar. This was stated by the Minister while chairing a high level meeting of Housing Board officers at Gandhi Nagar Guest House, here today. Managing Director Housing Board Kiran Wattal, Secretary Housing Board Rampal Sharma besides other senior officers of Housing Board were present in the meeting. Mr. Bhalla informed that in Jammu the Infrastructural Professional Global Enterprises (IPGE) has been directed to conduct survey of the slum areas in Jammu city and prepare detailed project reports for creation of all basic amenities like better accommodation, safe drinking water, power, road connectivity besides better lanes and drains. He said under the RAY, the central Government headed by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has provided liberal funding. He said the schemes aims at to develop all urban pockets, slum basties with all infrastructural facilities to improve living conditions of the inhabitants. The Minister informed that centre has released Rs. 2.63 crore against Rs 4.73 crore projects submitted for the up-gradation of slum basties of six cities of the State. He asked the IPGE to complete the survey in a time bound manner to facilitate early start of the work. Bhalla asked for effective implementation of centrally sponsored Rajiv Gandhi Awas Yojana (RGAY) scheme for rehabilitation of slum dwellers, adding that the scheme aims at to tackle the problems of slums in a definitive manner. He said central and state governments were committed to improve the living condition of homeless. The Minister asked the officers to prepare the inventory of Housing Board assets besides available land across the State, adding that Government was keen to develop new colonies under self financing schemes. He stressed the need to put the assets of the board to best use and revenue generation. Bhalla said development of Housing colonies in urban as well as rural areas of the State was receiving main focus of the government. He said the colonies would be developed on modern lines with all basic amenities like safe drinking water, road connectivity, electricity, parking, play field, super bazaar and recreational parks.

Agriculture Minister calls on Governor

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Ghulam Hassan Mir, Minister for Agriculture, called on M N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here this evening. During their meeting, the Governor and the Agriculture Minister discussed the implementation of various flagship schemes concerning the Agriculture sector and the measures being taken for enabling the growers to be timely provided with all the required inputs and, besides, the latest technical know-how for enhancing agri-productivity and production. Other important issues relating to the speedy socio-economic development of the State also came up for discussion during their meeting.

J&K Police Bill objectionable, draconian: CPI(M)

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir state unit of CPI(M) Wednesday termed the proposed Police Bill as "highly objectionable and draconian", saying the administration needs to come out of the "authoritarian mindset". "The proposed Police Reforms Bill is highly objectionable. There are some clauses in the draft bill which make it draconian and which are unacceptable to the people of the state," state secretary, CPI(M), M Y Tarigami told reporters here. Tarigami said there is a need to democratise the institutions of governance rather than make them more "authoritarian". He said the draft bill proposes powers similar to the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). "As far as the draft bill is concerned, it also proposes powers for the state police quite similar to the controversial AFSPA. So, the bill should have been named as Police Force Special Powers Act (PFSPA)," Tarigami said. The CPI(M) leader said the Supreme Court directives on police reforms have been ignored in the present draft. "Contrary to the Supreme Court directives and ignoring the persistent demand for making police more humane and people friendly while preventing undue political interference in its functioning, the State Police Reforms Bill 2013 not only contains unwanted provisions but gives unbridled freedom to the police force," Tarigami, who represents south Kashmir's Kulgam in Assembly, said. He alleged that the bill would take away the authority from the civil administration and would let the police act as "a state within the state".

Development of rural, hilly areas getting focused attention: GA Mir

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Minister for Tourism Mr. Ghulam Ahmed Mir has said that development of rural and hilly areas was getting focused attention adding that pro-people policies of the government have revolutionized the developmental scenario in the State. Addressing series of public meetings today at Hakora, Budusgam, Lesser and Zaldora in Dooru constituency, the Minister said that focused attention was being paid to improve and upgrade education, health, power, road connectivity in rural areas. He said implementation of flagship programmes like RMSA, SSA, NRHM, RGGVY, PMGSY have set in a new phase of development in the State. The Minister said that government has also launched various welfare schemes under State and Centre Plans for socio-economic upliftment of the poor and called upon the people to come forward to take benefits of these schemes. The Minister said that Tourism industry is back bone of the State's economy and government was endeavouring hard to give boost to this industry by incurring crore of rupees for upgradation of infrastructural facilities besides developing new potential spots. He said the tourism industry guarantees ample opportunities of employment to the youth and they should come forward and avail the same. He said government was encouraging youth by providing easy loans with subsidies for setting up their own units under this sector . Responding to the demands of the locals, the Minister said that various developmental initiatives are under way for improvement of basic amenities in Dooru constituency. He said that concerned officers have been directed to ensure time bound completion of the projects . He assured the villagers that all their genuine demands and developmental issues would be solved in a phased manner. The Minister during his tour also conducted public darbars at Kapran, Batagund, Hiller, Shahabad, Qazigund and listened to the people's problems besides developmental needs. He issued on the spot instructions to the concerned officers for immediate redressal of people's developmental needs. He also instructed the concerned officers to ensure that all the deserving people get the benefits of welfare schemes .

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Employment Generation subservient to industrialization: Kichloo

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Maintaining that Industrialization is key to tackle the burgeoning unemployment problem, the Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Mr. Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo today called for promotion of Industries with strong backward and forward linkages adding that strong raw material back up, State of the art manufacturing ability and effective marketing channels are of primary importance to withstand stiff marketing competition. Speaking at the first review meeting of the Industries, Commerce, and allied departments and PSU's, after taking over the charge of these departments, Mr. Kitchloo said quality control and cost effectiveness is also of vital significance to make the industrial production of J&K a thriving Industry. He said focus of the policy planners should be to develop industry which is

Gives 10-point Plan for promotion of Industry

Minister of State for Industries and Commerce, Mr. Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo chairing a meeting at Jammu. primarily based on the locally available raw material in abundance having a vast local market also. He said it has been observed that most of the raw material for various industries goes outside the State as we have not been able to exploit and process valuable treasure in the form of an industrial output. "Result oriented awareness programme, exhibition and expos in and outside the State both in rural and urban areas of the country and abroad, can be significant in this regard, Mr. Kichloo added. Kichloo also called for promotion and revival of traditional and heritage handicrafts of the State by dovetailing it with the modern technologies in design development. Kichloo also called for effectiveness of Single window clearance system, technical monitoring of various industrial units and removing industrial sickness by devicing workable revival plans to give a boost to industries in the State in a big way. Kitchloo also urged for a pragmatic Industrial Policy to extract world renowned minerals especially blue sapphire (Neelam) (by activations the Deptt. for generating revenue). He also called for a proper and effective management plan to be put in place to improve the working of various PSU's to make these financially sustainable. "Somewhere there is lack of

proper management and monitoring as despite having best and attractive industrial packages available both at Central and State Government level, the huge industrial potential could not have been exploited fully so far, " Mr. Kichloo said and urged for identifying chronic impediments in the way of fast industrialization. He besides employment generation, industries can bring all round socio-economic transformation adding that no nation can afford to thrive without having a strong industrial base. The Commissioner/ Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Mr. Shantmanu while giving power point presentation about the working of the overall Industries & Commerce Deptt. said that about 11792 industrial units with an investment of Rs. 1923 Cr. have been registered in the State since 2002-03 upto date where 72340 jobs have been generated. He said

during the current year some land mark initiatives have been taken up to give boost to the industries, handicrafts and handlooms in the State which include construction of Sanat Ghar at Bemina Srinagar to house all the Departments/Corporations of Industries & Commerce under one roof at Bemina Srinagar at an estimated cost of Rs. 27.21 Crore. In addition, a 300 TDP capacity Grinding-cum-Packing unit is being set up at Industrial Growth Centre, Samba at an estimated cost of Rs. 26.67 Crores. A permanent Infrastructure at Trade Facilitation Centres Salamabad, Uri and Chakkanda Bagh, Poonch is being executed on fast track basis at an estimated cost of Rs. 895.00 lacs & Rs. 795.00 lacs. He said a Pashmina testing and quality certification centre is being shortly set-up at Craft Dev. Institute Campus in Srinagar to certify Kashmir Pashmina for G.I.

Registration. He said the Ministry of Food Processing, GOI has sanctioned a grant of Rs. 7.00 Crore for implementing the National Mission for Food Processing Scheme in the State adding that the civil work for extraction of Raw magnesite from Panthal Reasi and establishment of Dead Burnt Magnesite Plant at an estimated project cost of Rs. 160.00 Crores at Panthal have also been started. The Director JKEDI said that since September 2010, the Steering Committee of Seed Capital Fund Scheme has approved 2461 DPRs in respect of 2573 entrepreneurs involving Project Cost of Rs. 262.00 Crore with Seed Capital of 82.00 Crores. Rs. 64.00 Crore have been released by the JKEDI in favour of 1996 entrepreneurs for the establishment of 1910 enterprises. Out of these, the Bank has disbursed Seed Capital/Loan Amount in respect of 1199 enterprises.

Jora reviews proposed General Bus Stand up-gradation, multistory parking projects
JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: The Minister for Urban Development and Urban Local Bodies, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora today reviewed the proposed multi storey parking and up-gradation project for General Bus stand Jammu, besides two other parking slots proposed to be constructed at City Chowk and Panjthirthi, here at a meeting attended by the government functionaries and representatives of M/S Abacus Legal Group - the consultant company entrusted with the preparation of Detailed Project Report for the projects . The consultant company, M/S Abacus Legal Group gave a power presentation of the proposed projects. It was said that the remodeling of General Bus Stand would cost Rs. 100 crore, while the construction of parking slots at City Chowk and Panjthirthi would cost Rs. 30 crore each. The project for the General Bus Stand envisages construction of Multi storey parking slot and Commercial Centre with all latest facilities . Principal Secretary, Planning B.R. Sharma, Commissioner Secretary Housing and Urban Development, Jeet lal Gupta, divisional commissioner Jammu, Pardeep Gupta vice Chairperson, Jammu Development Authority, Sirta Chavan and other senior officers were present on the occasion. While discussing the economic viability of the proposed projects, the meeting laid thrust on having spacious parking slots to cater to the increasing traffic rush in the city. The meeting observed that owing to fast expansion of the city due to pressure of huge influx of people from other parts of the state, there was a need for futuristic and perspective planning . The Minister, while reviewing the proposed projects, said that he will discuss the matter with Chief Minister for final takeoff. It was said that, in order to deal with the increasing traffic congestions and traffic jams, the Jammu city needs identification of new parking slots and construction of sub ways to address the problem. Jora said that the government was committed to develop the two capital cities of Jammu and Srinagar on modern lines and the biggest challenge was to take measures to ease traffic congestion.

SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 27: Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir has issued an avalanche warning from February 27 to 28, 2013 in view of expected moderate to heavy snowfall in snow bound areas of Kashmir Valley. People living in these areas like Nowgam, Chowkibal, Budnambal, Karnah, Keran, Jumagand, Kenthawali, Machil and Lashdat have been advised not to venture into steep avalanche-prone slopes during the said period and remove snow from roof tops of their houses to avoid any causality due to house collapse. Meanwhile, according to the Deputy Commissioner, Kupwara, in view of inclement weather, no vehicular traffic is allowed from

Div Com issued fresh Dy CM conducts surprise inspection avalanche warning of exam centers
Karnah to Kupwara, Keran to Kupwara and Machil to Kupwara till improvement of weather and clearance of roads. Pertinently, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Gurez, Mr. M.A. Hakak has also asked the people of Koregbal, Nayil, Khandyal, Chorvan, Khobri and Tulail villages to restrict their movement and not to venture into avalanche prone areas. Meanwhile, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate along with Tehsildar and SHO Gurez inspected the site in Markote village where a house was damaged due to a fire incident on 25th of this month and provided tin sheets, bedding, kitchen set and 3 months free ration to the affected family as immediate relief. JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand today conducted surprise inspection of various 12th class examination centers in the city. He inspected the conduct of examination in these centers and interacted with the students and staff on duty. Directions were issued for smooth and fair conduct of examination. Chairman, J&K Board of School Education Dr. Sheikh Bashir Ahmad and other senior officers of Board accompanied the tour. Tara Chand directed the board authorities to maintain strict discipline in the centers and ensure that students take examination in a stress free atmosphere. Aim of the authorities is to ensure that undue pressure on students gets released by ensuring proper conduct in the examination centers, he added. He said copying in examination has to be strictly checked and all measures have to be taken for ensuring fair examination, adding that the duty staff should be periodically changed and inter school duties should be encouraged. Both private and government schools were inspected, which include, Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Gandhi Nagar, Government Higher Secondary School, Shastri Nagar and Unique Public School, Rani Bagh.

Mian Altaf for effective implementation of polythene ban

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Emphasizing the need for strict implementation of ban on the use and manufacturing of polythene products in the State, the Minister for Forest and Environment, Mian Altaf today directed the Pollution Control Board (PCB) authorities to come up with environment friendly alternate to address the problems of unit holders affected by the ban. The Minister was reviewing the measures taken by the enforcement agencies to check the use and illegal import of polythene in the State at an officers meeting here today. Commissioner Secretary Forest, Sheikh Aijaz Iqbal, Commissioner Excise,. Vineta Gupta, Member Secretary/Chairman, Pollution Control Board, Arun Tickoo, Regional Director, PCB, Mr Sajjad Mufti and President, Chamber of Commerce and Industries Jammu Mr. Y.V.Sharma were present on the occasion. The Minister said that ban on polythene was in the best interest of the society, adding that people have a direct role to play in curbing this menace. Seeking cooperation of general public in this regard, the Minister said that people should be pursued to use conventional cloth bags while fetching eatables or other domestic items rather relying on use of banned polythene. The Minister asked officers of PCB to coordinate with other line departments including Jammu Municipal Corporation and district administration to ensure effective implementation of ban imposed on use of polythene in the State. Mian Altaf instructed officers of PCB to come up with alternate means so that the affected traders could be rehabilitated early. He asked them to install high end x-ray machine at Lakhanpur Toll Plaza to check illegal import of polythene in the State. President, Chamber of Commerce and Industries Mr. Y.V.Sharma, while highlighting the problems of the affected unit holders, pleaded for amicable resolution of the issue. He said 58 unit holders have been affected by the ban in Jammu alone and pleaded for priority to these unit holders in any kind of replacement to be proposed by the Government.

Ramzan inspects CA&PD Godowns

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27 - Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CA&PD), Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan today conducted surprise inspection of main CA&PD Godowns of Jammu city to check stock position and quality of the food grains . The Minister was accompanied by Director CA&PD, Jammu, Mr Parvize Malik, Assistant Director CA&PD, Jammu and other senior officers of CA&PD. During the inspection of Nehru Market CA&PD Godown, the Minister took strong note of its dilapidated condition and unhygienic premises. He directed to director CA&PD, Jammu to immediately start renovation of the premises in coordination with JDA. Ramzan inspected all the Godowns and checked the daily supply position and its quality. He directed to CA&PD director to suspend the storekeeper Nehru Market Godown immediately for not maintaining the record of the stocks. He also directed the director to take action against the officer and official who accept sub standard quality of wheat from FCI. He directed that in future the FCI consignment should be checked before unloading and any officer found allowing sub standard ration shall face strict action as per the law. While inspecting Chatta Food Godowns, the Minister also stressed for facelift of the premises of these stores and directed to construct a shed for Weigh Bridge at the earliest for safety of ration during rainy days. He also inspected the FCI Godowns and checked the stock and quality of wheat and rice stocked there. Taking serious note of the variation in the delivery and dispatch of stocks lifted from FCI Godown for CA&PD Godowns and mills, the Minister constituted an inquiry committee under the supervision of Deputy Secretary CA&PD to inquire into the discrepancies. The inquiry committee would submits its report within a week time so that action is taken against the erring officials. Meanwhile, the Minister also directed to attach the supervisor, storekeeper and dispatch clerk of Chatta Food Godown to director CA&PD, pending inquire. During the inspection, the Minister was told that 6000 qtls of rice, 1000 qtls of sugar were available at Nehru market, while 10,000 qtls of rice, 8300qtls of wheat and 1398 qtls are available at Chatta food Godown for onward distribution to different districts of Jammu province.

Kanak Mandi President, others join NC

Rana lambasts BJP for igniting passions; dividing people
JAMMU FEBRUARY 27- Provincial President National Conference Mr Devender Singh Rana on Wednesday lambasted Bharatya Janata Party for pursuing divisive and disruptive politics in a mistaken belief of dividing the people on communal and regional lines to further its political agenda. Welcoming prominent businessmen from Jammu and BJP workers in the party fold at a specially organized function here this afternoon, Mr Rana eulogized the political understanding of the people, saying they can differentiate what is right and wrong for them. Vijay Gupta, President Kanak Mandi Traders Association, Abhinandan Sachdeva, Ex-General Secretary Gangyal Industries Association, Sanjay Sareen, Munish Arora, Raman Gupta, Anil Gupta, Sahil Malhotra, Naresh Sadhotra, Amit Goel, Arvind Sethi, Rajan Gupta, Banka Mirhsa, Gurdeep Singh, Vivek Sareen, Rajit Singh Tara, Raman Gupta, Mohinder Singh and Harbajan Singh joined National Conference at the function. Minister for Forests, Mr. Mian Altaf Ahmad who was also present on the occasion welcomed the traders and BJP workers into the party fold. Rana said parties like BJP cannot mislead the people by carving out imaginary apprehensions, adding that emotive slogans in all their manifestations have caused immense damage to the social fabric of sensitive state like Jammu and Kashmir in the past.

DC Kulgam launches pentavalent vaccine

KULGAM, FEBRUARY 27Deputy Commissioner Jahangir Mir Wednesday launched newly introduced pentavalent vaccine here at Chief Medical Officer's Office, where five children were administered the latest comprehensive vaccine to mark its beginning. With the launch of this comprehensive vaccine, Kulgam district has taken a lead in south Kashmir in the new immunization initiative. The latest pentavalent vaccine replaces DPT and Hepatitis B with additional HIB vaccine that immunizes the children against five virulent ailments including influenza in a single prick much to the comfort of new born. The newly introduced vaccine is not only baby- friendly but also will de-burden pockets of the general people for being free of cost and readily available at the government health centers. In the first phase, the vaccine has been kept available at district hospital and all the 19 Primary Health Centers across the district. Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner exhorted upon the medicos to ensure that this wonderful vaccine is fanned out to all the health sub- centers within a month, maintaining that all the children must be administered Pentavalent at their nearest health institute. He said every effort needs to be initiated to ensure that the children are immunized as per the government policy with focus on cut off areas.

Wani reviews District Rajouri Road Sector

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 27: Directing officers to ensure completion of all road schemes as per the time line fixed, Minister for R&B Abdul Majid Wani Wednesday said that growth of economy and welfare of villages especially in hilly areas and bad pockets is directly related to good road communication network. "Together we need to be forthcoming to public needs and aspirations" Wani said stressing that accomplishing works in time, regular monitoring and quality control of specifications should remain on focus of all involved agencies. The Minister was speaking at a meeting held here to review the status of ongoing Road projects undertaken in District Rajouri under the State plan, District plan, NABARD, PMGSY and other schemes. Minister of State for Health Shabir Ahmad Khan, MLA Darhal Ch. Zulfiqar Ali, MLA, Kalakote, Thakur Rachpal Singh, and other officers were present on the occasion. During the review meeting detailed appraisal was held on sector wise financial and physical achievements registered in district Rajouri during the current financial year with directions for dovetailing of resources to ensure completion of all vital road projects of significant public importance. The R&B Minister stressed that funds earmarked for various schemes should be expended in full and the same should speak on ground in the form of physical assets. He directed for implementation of all decisions taken in Rajouri District Development Board (DDB) meetings and gaps if any should be addressed on priority. The meeting reviewed several important roads and bridge projects in Rajouri, Nowshera, Kalakote, Darhal and other areas of the district. During 2012-13 several bridges have been completed in the district at Thanamandi, Palma Chowkian, Charangal Kathanoo and Nalni Pattan etc. Status of 25m span Triyath bridge, alternate bridge near Abdullah bridge at Rajouri also came up for discussion during the meeting. The meeting also reviewed health related infrastructure works taken in hand in district Rajouri. It was informed that out of the three blocks of the new district hospital Rajouri, the Emergency and IPD Block have been completed and handed over while the work on OPD block will be completed by December this year. The work on sub-district hospital Darhal has been completed at an estimated cost of Rs. 590.65 lakh and is ready for use.

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EDITORIAL

CAN BANSAL DELIVER ?

We Need to Rethink Our Stand on Pakistan

BY KUNAL ANAND he last few months have been a shameful chapter in the Indo-Pak relations since 1947. We have fought four wars to gain land and in the process lost brave men, innocent women and children. We have wielded guns in the highest battleground in the world and the sad part is that some of us think this is a world record to be proud of! All those chest thumping Indians and Pakistanis baying for each other's blood-"Spare us the clarion calls unless it's your head in the line of fire. " There are conflicting reports as to what led to the recent skirmishes at the LoC. Allegations, denials and conspiracy theories are flying thick in the air. The gory details of how Pakistani soldiers killed our jawans on our side of the border makes us seethe with both anger and despair. We have all the time in the world to debate which side started all this. We can afford to do that. For now, let's spare a thought for the families of Lance Naik Hemraj and Lance Naik Sudhakar Singh. Do you think TV debates and our rants make any difference to those families? The soldiers who died were from poor families fighting a war for the better-offs like you and me. Most of them must have been

iven the colossal mess that is Indian Railways today, Union Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal's maiden Railway Budget presented in Parliament on Tuesday is a decent effort to bring the gentle giant back on track. Also the UPA regime's last full-fledged Railway Budget before the next Lok Sabha election, Mr Bansal's plan for the coming fiscal year is one that is strong, pragmatic and even optimistic - much like 'The Little Blue Engine' (in Christine Weatherly's poem which the Minister has quoted in his Budget speech) that sings to itself, "I think I can, I think I can" while pulling the rest of the train up the hill. That Mr Bansal has before him an uphill task is without a doubt. But by focussing on the importance of making Indian Railways a financially sound institution, something that has rarely been done in the past, the Minister has made clear where his priorities lie. If Indian Railways is to function effectively, offering passengers a safe, comfortable and an affordable means of transport, it needs to both improve existing facilities as well as add new services - none of which can happen without adequate cash flow. In fact, the loss on passenger carriage in 2012-2013 alone has been pegged at Rs24,500 crore. But far too often this lack of funds (almost entirely the result of financial mismanagement) has been used as an excuse to postpone upgrades, resulting in the loss of revenue and feeding the vicious cash crunch circle. Mr Bansal has sought to break out of that circle and has committed to enhancing the services. For instance, 67 new express trains and 27 passenger trains will be introduced while tracks will also be doubled. Also, proposals to improve internet bookings, provide free wi-fi in trains and introduce special 'Anubhuti' coaches for passengers willing to pay more for a better travel experience are also progressive steps that should attract more travellers -about five per cent more, Mr Bansal is hoping. Of course, all of this comes at a price - an investment of Rs63,000 crore will be needed - but the Rail Minister has done well not to pass on the burden to the passengers right away. He has not hiked train fare, since the fares had been raised only recently after 10 years. Here, a quick mention must be made of the independent Rail Tariff Authority that Mr Bansal said has been formalised. This should help depoliticise the issue of passenger fares. On his part, Mr Bansal has done well to keep the focus on the freight sector from where Railways can and should generate the bulk of its revenue. The new Fuel Adjustment Charge that will be levied to offset the increase in diesel prices after it was recently deregulated will increase freight tariffs by an average of five per cent. But Mr Bansal still hopes to see a whopping nine per cent increase in freight traffic. This might be difficult to achieve given that the economy is expected to slow down further in 2013-2014. Still, the focus on developing the planned freight corridor in the east and west is welcome. Land acquisition for the 2,800 km long Dedicated Freight Corridor is almost complete, the first major civil contract for its construction has already been awarded and Rs3,800 crore has been earmarked to enhance port connectivity. If this momentum is sustained, the freight sector can finally play a big role in the Railways' turnaround.

the sole breadwinners of their families. A few lakh of compensation isn't going to pay for their kids' education and their parents' medicines for their entire life. For all our moral uprightness, the hard truth is-THEY DIED FOR YOU AND ME. Last year, I got the contact details of some of the Kargil war martyrs' families. A group of us decided to call them and express our solidarity with them. The mother of one of the martyrs' broke down when I said that no matter what I do in my life and what I become, my mother can never be as proud of me as she should be of her brave son. She sobbed, thanked me and said that it meant a lot as the government had completely forgotten about them. That's what we do. We let them fight our battles and sooner or later, forget them. Coming back to the "Kill 'em all" brigade, how many of you serve in the army? How many of you have a brother or son at the border? Except a few, the rest of you are having a 'tough' life travelling in crowded buses or 'braving' the winter in airconditioned offices. Most of us never think of joining the armed forces as it's a high risk, low returns job. So why do we expect our soldiers to fight our wars every time we get pissed at each other? When you

say that India must be shown its place or teaching Pakistan a lesson once and for all is the only solution, you are confusing between a war between two nuclear powered nations and a fight between neighborhood children in the cricket field. After every terrorist attack or border skirmish, we suspend talks, bus and train services. When that doesn't suffice, our government drops the BOMB- Suspend cricketing ties! A few months later it is the business as usual. The rulers and the people keep swaying between Aman ki Asha andAman ka Tamasha. Music, cricket and a few dozen people travelling by buses to meet their loved ones on the other side of the border is fine. But this cannot and never will bring peace between the two countries as the one party that's crucial for any long lasting peace has not been directly involved in the dialogues. The Pakistani military has been the biggest stakeholder in anything that concerns Pakistan. It controls Pakistani borders, a large part of its economy and most of the times, the government too. Pakistan has been under direct military rule for almost three decades since independence and the Kargil war was one of the many examples that showed that they do not find it necessary to keep the civilian govern-

ment in loop while taking decisions like waging a war etc. Pakistan isn't my country, and so, how it conducts its internal government is none of my business. But when it comes to improving the relation between India and Pakistan, keeping the Pakistani military establishment out of the equation is like ignoring the elephant in the room. We can talk about the technicalities about how Pakistani government is the only legitimate authority to engage in any peace initiative. We can engage in counter arguments about how even the Indian Prime Minister doesn't have any real authority to take a decision on his own. Or, we can understand that with every passing day, more and more coffins are reaching their homes while the two countries teeter at the brink of a full blown conflict that is sure to claim thousands of lives. An honest meeting between the Indian and Pakistani government accompanied by Gen. Ashfaq Qayani is essential if we want to witness tangible peace. The Pakistani army recently admitted that terrorism is the biggest challenge they face today. It's an honest admission that should serve as a lesson. With horrific blasts like the ones this Friday that claimed lives of over 125

Pakistanis, Pakistan could do better by utilizing its over-stretched armed forces to secure safety of its citizens. That is possible if India and Pakistan can convince each other that they won't indulge in any misadventure even if the military presence at the LoC is reduced drastically, thus freeing our troops to engage in other nation building activities. When a nation spends seven folds more on the army than on primary education, its people deserve to feel safe at least in their cities. With some matured deliberations, maybe, both the armies can step down a little. The first step should be bringing to justice the officers who were responsible for any ceasefire violation and intrusion. As an Indian, I wouldn't be saddened, in fact I might rejoice if those who killed our soldiers are made to suffer the same fate. But if four wars couldn't put a lid on killing of innocent Indians and Pakistanis, I have my doubts whether a fifth would achieve that. In the words of Bob Dylan "How many times must the cannon balls fly Before they are forever banned? Yes, how many deaths will it take till he knows That too many people have died?"

Narendra Modi: Will he be next PM?

BY TARUN SURYA lections in India are always a very active period in the political calendar. The upcoming national elections are, thus, no different and have political analysts working overtime as to pool all the data together and present a clear enough picture as to the chances of the various permutations and combinations possible at the Centre. There was once a time when 272 was a magic number the Congress could pull off in an instant, a point of time when the BJP was just another stone on the road to Rajpath. But with the entrance of collation politics, that stone began to grow steadily to become the boulder the public sees today. 2014 happens to be the year when the Congress has finally got around to placing Rahul Gandhi in a substantial position of power, hyping him up to be the unofficial candidate for the PM post. But to get there, he must face the most potent weapon the BJP has rising through its ranks: Narendra Modi. Fresh from winning a third term in Gujarat, Modi looked to be following a path of unchallenged state dominance that had never been seen in the post-Jyothi Basu era. While it seems unlikely that the record set by one of Bengal's most iconic CPM cadres will ever be remotely challenged, the support Modi commands from the population in Gujarat despite

Fresh from winning a third term in Gujarat, Modi looked to be following a path of unchallenged state dominance that had never been seen in the post-Jyothi Basu era. While it seems unlikely that the record set by one of Bengal's most iconic CPM cadres will ever be remotely challenged, the support Modi commands from the population in Gujarat despite his alleged involvement in the Godhra riots throws up many similarities to Basu's rule. While some have said the rise of Modi has been due to the apparent lack of an alternative leader in Gujarat politics, it does nothing to dent the fact that large progress has been seen in the erstwhile languishing state, something that Modi's supporters never fail to bring up in a debate.
his alleged involvement in the Godhra riots throws up many similarities to Basu's rule. While some have said the rise of Modi has been due to the apparent lack of an alternative leader in Gujarat politics, it does nothing to dent the fact that large progress has been seen in the erstwhile languishing state, something that Modi's supporters never fail to bring up in a debate But this third term holds more significance to the BJP than just the satisfaction of maintaining its position in an otherwise Congress dominated India. Modi's success in Gujarat has solidified his image as the BJP's new-age campaigner. Tech-savvy, educated and shrewd, Modi represents a new brand of politicians raring to take over the reins of the BJP and revamp its image. With the ability to communicate to 'young India', as the Congress has stressed on many times, the BJP now has a fighting chance to actually come to power at the Centre after a long hiatus, courtesy the scam-racked UPA-II shamble at present. But within this race to occupy the Parliament, the BJP's internal competitions are ready to ignite. Modi in particular is a strong forerunner for the post of PM. In his path to 10 Janpath, however, lie many large impediments; foremost among them being Sushma Swaraj, LK Advani and Modi's own baggage. As a politician with a hard-core Moditva (Modi's own brand of the BJP's agenda of Hindutva) image, it is difficult to imagine him having a significantly large appeal amongst the largely secular Indian populationBias towards Gujarat remains a major worry in the mind of the Indian voter, supplemented by the fact that Modi has had no verifiable success on the rare occasions that he has stepped out of his state to campaign for the BJP. Above all, his indictments in the Godhra riot cases have not yet been resolved, striking another blow to his reputation and image as a rising BJP star. Also, Modi does not enjoy much support from his fellow members with the BJP as well as the RSS, its parent body. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the BJP's most successful prime-ministerial candidate, remains an inspiration and a role model for all those within the BJP to aspire to. Analysis of Modi's actions indicates that he aims to be the next such role model. But Modi lacks the acumen to compromise when the situation demands it and look at the bigger picture in terms of the good of the country over state, a quality that made Vajpayee indispensable to the BJP administration. Only time will tell if the country will really back Modi to be its flag bearer as the BJP seeks to live up to its own long coined slogan 'India Shining'

Only a stable tax regime can win back investors

BY NAVNEET MUNOT ever in the recent history has Budget exercise gained such significance as now, given the state of Indian economy and macro-economic challenges. The growth numbers are at nadir over the decade while fiscal deficit, current account deficit and inflation remain at alarmingly high levels. Over the years, Indian fiscal policies have depended on growth as an important peg in the economy while trying to balance investments with savings and monetary deficits with

foreign capital flows. Firm international fuel prices and expenditure policy that supports consumption subsidies, NREGA, and higher MSPs - have caused twin deficits as key economic outcome in the recent past. The slowing growth has further increased dependence on foreign portfolio flows in the fiscal arithmetic. The expectations from the Budget are mixed. Being the last Budget before the general elections makes it a tough balancing act as one would need to please all and yet show fiscal prudence. Also,

important is to get the economic engine rolling and facilitate the process to regain the normal of 7% economic growth. The revision of the current year estimate would remain an academic exercise, driven more by numeric adjustments on the expenditure side - mainly cutting the Plan expenditure - while targets on revenues remain stretched from direct and indirect taxes. The disinvestment proceeds and spectrum allocation exercise would just make it on the last count. One can expect an investment-

focussed Rail budget to set the right tone for the Budget exercise. The focus of the Budget would be towards incremental measures that boost revenues while facilitating growth. Furthermore, given the increased sensitivities towards global investors, the focus should be on positioning for stability and growth revival and avoid "surprises". Stability and a pragmatic approach towards taxation and fiscal policies would go a long way in restoring trust of investors. The small, steady yet definite change that one needs to watch is

the clarity/commitment for timelines on rollout of initiatives such as IT-empowerment of the tax information network and governance, DTC, GST and UIDAI (direct benefit transfer). Any directional positive announcement on either/all would be a positive. These are times to be positive, as India has to his credit a demonstrated delivery of stronger commitment and courage to take necessary fiscal steps when the situation demands the most. We expect an encore this time, where the Budget would certainly set the right tone.

READERS SPACE
Railway Budget
Dear Sir, If there is one area of government that needs big ideas and big reforms, it is the Indian Railways. But, in the railway budget of 2013-14, there were none. Even more worrying, there will be none in coming years - and that is dangerous. With an eye on elections, the Railway Minister has not raised the passenger fares, even though last month's hike was partly offset by an increase in diesel prices. Electricity charges too are rising. He has suggested an automatic linking of rail tariffs with fuel prices, but who will make it happen? The minister has not hurt anyone much but pinched sections of travellers a bit by escalating ticket reservation, cancellation and Tatkal charges. Yours, etc. Reshmi Jamwal, Jammu

Suspension of LOC trade

Dear Sir, This is in reference to the news regarding suspension of the Cross-LoC trade by the stakeholders in protest against delisting of two traders after some ammunition was found in the trucks that came from across the border. The immediate decision to suspend the trade reflects the half- backed decision. Rather , there should have been a ban on the firms caught in carrying the illegal trade. Moreover, it is not the fault of the traders on this side of the LoC if something incriminating has been found in the truck from across the border and otherwise also, checking of the goods has to be done before the material is imported at the trade point. It is a matter security concern and that is why such a measure is in place for the safety and security of all the traders dealing with goods at the border point. It has been appreciated by the traders many times that security check is justified and if anything is found incriminat-

ing, the traders have been cooperating with the agencies on this issue. Instead of announcing such a decision, the security agencies and the custodian should have held negotiations with the traders association and pointed out the lapses on their part and on the part of the traders, who have extended full cooperation on security issues. Apart from this, it would have appreciable if these issues were brought before the traders' body in the larger interest of all the stakeholders. The least the government agency, which regulates and facilitates trade at the border point, could do was further upgrade the security infra-structure and be vigilant on arms and ammunition which could find their way through this route. On this, the government agencies need to look forward and improve the trade process instead of resorting to this retrograde step, which has caused inconvenience to the traders on both sides. Yours Etc. Onkar Singh Talab Tillo, Jammu

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Over 19 dead, several injured in Kolkata market fire

Mamata ordered probe, announces compensation
KOLKATA: At least 19 people were killed and over a dozen critically injured Wednesday when a fire broke out at a multi-storey market complex in the Sealdah area here. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hinted at sabotage as a possible cause. Banerjee has ordered an enquiry and announced compensation of Rs.2 lakh to the kin of each of the dead. "The probe will be jointly done by the police, fire department and the municipal corporation, and a report is to be submitted in three days. On the basis of the report, action will be taken," Banerjee said during her visit to the site. Observing that the market was prone to fires because a large number of inflammable objects were stored there, she also hinted at sabotage: "Why has this incident happened? There are so many inflammable objects that if anybody lit a small fire, it could turn into a major fire. The probe will look into all aspects," the chief minister said. hospitals. The fire broke out at about 4 a.m. shops and paper godowns. Fire Services Minister Javed Khan said the complex in which the fire broke out was illegally constructed and most of the entry and exit gates were locked, resulting in people being trapped inside. "We will take action against the market authorities for not having any fire safety arrangements," Khan said. Local people said the toll could rise, as many people remain trapped inside. Leader of opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Surjya Kanta Mishra of the Communist Party of India demanded a probe into the incident. "This is not the time to play the blame game. An immediate and impartial probe must be initiated into the matter and the administration must seriously look into how many buildings there are, which are vulnerable to fire, and take immediate action," Mishra, who visited the site, said.

VVIP chopper deal: BJP demands SC-monitored probe

NEW DELHI: The main opposition BJP on Wednesday demanded a Supreme Court-monitored, time-bound probe into the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal. Taking part in a debate in the Rajya Sabha on the issue, BJP leader Prakash Javadekar said all those who were the beneficiary in the deal must be bought to book, whether they are in Italy or India. Also, those in Italy should be brought to India to face law, he added. "Money trail must also be established. Further, Letter Rogatory (LRs) must be issued," Javadekar demanded. The BJP leader also accused Defence Minister AK Antony of presiding over the most corrupt ministry, demanding that he be made answerable for the scams. Javadekar said over Rs 400 crore bribes were paid to seal the deal to supply 12 VVIP helicopters to India. The BJP leader also indicated money laundering was involved in the case. Hitting out at the Congress, Javadekar said the ruling ment will today offer a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the VVIP chopper deal. Amid the Opposition attack, the government has already made it clear that it is open for a JPC probe into the issue. "We are open for a J o i n t Parliamentary Committee if this satisfies e v e r y b o d y, " Parliamentary A f f a i r s Minister Kamal Nath had recently said. The deal has snowballed into a major controversy, especially after former Air Force chief SP Tyagi was named by the CBI in a Preliminary Enquiry into allegations of kickbacks in the chopper deal. Besides the former IAF chief, 10 others including his cousins -- Julie, Docsa and Sandeep Tyagi -have also been named along with four companies in the PE.

Describing the incident as unfortunate, Banerjee said the families of victims will be given Rs.2 lakh each as compensation."At least 19 persons have been killed in the fire so far," an officer manning the city police control room said. Over a dozen critically injured people have been taken to

Wednesday at the market in central Kolkata, when many of the victims were asleep. Twenty-six fire tenders rushed to the spot to douse the flames. Fire brigade personnel scrambled to rescue people. Many are feared trapped inside the market, which houses

Hagel make anti-India remarks; BJP calls it 'bizarre'

WASHINGTON: India's embassy in Washington DC has put out a statement rejecting US Secretary of Defence Chuck Hagel's allegations that India has over the years financed problems for Pakistan. "Such comments are contrary to the reality of India's unbounded dedication to the welfare of the Afghan people. India's commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan is unwavering," the Indian Embassy said in its statement. Terming as "outlandish and bizarre" the statement of Chuck Hagel, the new US Defence Secretary, that India has financed problems for Pakistan in Afghanistan, BJP on Wednesday asked the government to exert diplomatic pressure on Washington for unconditional withdrawal of his statement. The statement given by Hagel that India has financed problems in Pakistan is "outlandish, bizarre and basethe indifference of the Indian government by not reacting to Hagel. BJP demands that

US distances itself from Hagel's anti-India comments

NEW DELHI: The US has distanced itself from its Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel's stand that India is building a second front in Afghanistan. In a statement, the US embassy said, "The US govt has distanced itself from the views that Chuck Hagel appeared to have held in 2011. The US embassy has reaffirmed that India is a valued partner in Afghanistan. The United States strongly supports the positive role India continues to play in Afghanistan. We continue to support over the years financed problems for Pakistan on that side of the border," the former Republican Senator had said. His remarks are considered in sharp contrast to viewpoint of India's bilateral assistance program with Afghanistan, its leadership on private sector investment there, & promoting regional economic integration and linkages." India's commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan is unwavering," the Indian Embassy said in its statement. Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Manish Tewari said, "India requires no explanation from anyone. We have had constructive engagement in Afghanistan." Obama administration that has always been in praise of India's developmental role in Afghanistan and in fact has been pressing New Delhi to do more in Afghanistan.

party has a pattern when it comes to scams. "In all scams, the Congress first denies the existence of scam. Second, it delays the probe. Third, it blames the allies or bureaucrats. Fourth, it acts only if forced by the courts and that too in a haphazard manner," he told the House. The debate comes amid speculation that the govern-

NCP appeals for peace in face of MNS violence

MUMBAI: In the face of violence unleashed by the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, state Nationalist Congress Party president Madhukarrao Pichad exercised restraint and appealed to (NCP) party activists to remain calm Wednesday. In a statement, Pichad said the NCP was prepared to reply to all the issues raised by MNS president Raj Thackeray through the medim of politics. Pichad urged party activists not to be vexed by the MNS criticism, and asked them to stay calm and not resort to violence. Pichad pointed out that the people had always reposed faith in and supported NCP chief and union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar in the implementation of his pragmatic development-oriented, secular policies."I appeal to all to maintain peace. It is not our culture to gain cheap publicity through wrong means," he said. Pichad's appeal came in the wake of tensions which erupted between the NCP and MNS activists in Mumbai and other parts of the state. In retaliation, activists of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) targeted Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) offices in south Mumbai and its suburbs, as well as in Ahmednagar, Nanded, Akola, Yavatmal, Parbhani, Thane. Private and public vehicles were damaged in the fracas. The provocation behind the violence is believed to be Thackeray's political rallies, in which he targeted the NCP and its top leaders like Sharad Pawar, his nephew Ajit Pawar and state Home Minister R.R. Patil. "In democratic politics, anybody is free to criticise anybody. But, how will activists digest the kind of abusive language used by him (Raj Thackeray)? This is absolutely deplorable," an agitated NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik said Wednesday. "If anybody takes the law in their own hands, the police and government will deal with them appropriately," Malik warned, adding that details of attacks on NCP offices, workers and other places were being collected.

less," BJP spokesperson Rajiv Pratap Rudy said. He also expressed surprise over Hagel giving a clean to Pakistan, which has harboured in the backyard of its military base al Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden, who was responsible for killing of more than 5000 Americans in the World Trade Centre attack. "BJP is concerned at

Government of India uses its diplomatic pressure to see that Mr Chuck Hagel retracts his statement unconditionally," Rudy said. Hagel had made the remarks during a speech at Oklahoma's Cameron University in 2011, which has surfaced now. "India for some time has always used Afghanistan as a second front, and India has

'Strong local policing, strict laws will curb terror attacks'

H Y D E R A B A D : Strengthening policing from the grass root level, enacting tough laws and speedy trial of cases would go a long way in preventing and controlling terror attacks in the country, experts said. Stating that the twin blasts at Dilsukhnagar here last week were not a simple matter but a proxy war, former CBI director K Vijayarama Rao laid emphasis on prevention of such attacks by strengthening local policing and intelligence gathering mechanism. The terror attacks are often carried out with the help of some local elements, he said. "Only certain cities in the country are often chosen as targets," he said, adding that efforts should be made to reduce the number of such targets, followed by the number of localities in a city like Hyderabad that are on the hit-list of terrorists. Speedy investigation, hot pursuit of perpetrators of terrorists and expeditious trial of cases post any attack would act as a deterrent to the perpetrators, he said. The confidence of the people in the system would also grow if the culprits are brought to book without delay. Regretting that a law like Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) was allowed to lapse, Rao favoured that a tough law is needed to deal with terror cases. Stressing that prevention is the most important thing in controlling terrorism, former Union Home Secretary K Padmanabhaiah said borders should be made foolproof and foreigners over-staying in the country should be dealt with Highlighting the need for a tough anti-terror law like TADA, he cited the example of smuggling in narcotics coming down substantially in Mumbai after a stringent act was made. "The police should have the autonomy to function effectively without interference from any quarter," he said. Describing terrorism as the single biggest challenge, former Andhra Pradesh DGP A K Mohanty said performance and professionalism of police should be enhanced to meet the challenges. Noting that an extraordinary effort is needed to deal with an extraordinary situation, he said a specialised force should be set up to tackle the scourge of terrorism.

India will have cyber security policy soon: Sibal

NEW DELHI: India will soon have a cyber security policy that will ensure preventive measures against cyber crime and fraud, the government said Wednesday. "We are working on a cyber security policy... we need more work to curb cyber crimes," Minister for Communications and Information Technology Kapil Sibal told the Lok Sabha during Question Hour. According to the minister, the computer emergency response team in India, CERT-In, was monitoring any suspicious move on the internet in order to checkmate potential cyber attacks from hackers. The minister said that if any instance of fake calls on mobiles or emails promising a big award in exchange of personal information of a user is reported to his ministry, it will take action. Sibal stressed the need for international agreements, saying that the intermediaries of various internet service providers were located outside India, making it difficult to seek information from them. He supported the demand made by Congress MP Jai Prakash Agarwal that more public awareness campaigns must be run on the issue. Mentioning also the misuse of Section 66-A of the IT Act (pertaining to sending messages on communication services that are false or offensive), the minister said the police were not aware of it.

No plan to reduce age of juveniles: Govt

NEW DELHI: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home has decided against lowering the age of juveniles below 18 years of age despite suggestions by several members. Government has no plan to reduce the age of juveniles under the Juvenile Justice Act, Women and Child Development Minister Krishna Tirath informed the Rajya Sabha Wednesday. Replying to a question on suggestions for amending the Act, she said, "We are not yet ready to reduce the age of juveniles." She said in a meeting held by the Ministry of Home Affairs with Chief Secretaries of state governments and Directors General of Police on January 4 a suggestion was made regarding lowering of age of juveniles from 18 years to 16 in the wake of the Delhi gang-rape case in which a juvenile is an accused. Those below 18 will continue to be legally viewed as juveniles as defined by the Juvenile Justice Act. Minister of State for Women and Child Development Krishna Tirath told this to the Rajya Sabha. There were calls to reduce the legal age after the Delhi gangrape incident where one of the perpetrators was a juvenile. . But the government said only a small percent of crimes are committed by juveniles and the legal age cannot be reduced across the board. The Centre has said that it will not reduce the age of juveniles involved in crimes even in the rarest of rare cases. "However, the Committee on Amendments to Criminal Law under the Chairmanship of Justice J S Verma (Retd), in its recommendations submitted on 23.1.2013, has not supported the suggestion regarding reduction of the age of the child in conflict with law. To a supplementary by Jai Prakash Narayan Singh (BJP) on how much time will it take to include other suggestions on the issue, the Minister said, "These suggestions are under consideration of the Ministry." She said those juveniles who have committed serious crimes are put in different juvenile homes and are kept there for three years, where training is given to them to help make them good citizens. "We want to keep children close to our hearts and help them become good citizens," Tirath said.

Ruckus in RS over Sri Lankan war crimes

India committed to ensure justice to SL Tamils: Khurshid
NEW DELHI: There were noisy scenes in the Rajya Sabha as the government came under fire from the AIADMK over war crimes committed by the Sri Lankan government in the last days of the crusade against the LTTE in 2009. Expressing deep concern on the condition of the Tamils in Sri Lanka, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said that the government of India is committed to ensure justice to them. "I want to reiterate the commitment of the House to see the end of hostilities and the end of a very sad period in the history of Sri Lanka with which we are so closely related in terms of our neighbourhoodwe are totally, utterly, committed to an outcome which will give justice to Tamil people of Sri Lanka," Khurshid said in the Rajya Sabha. "They are citizens of Sri Lanka and they must have equal participation and justice within the sovereign country of Sri Lanka," he added. Stressing on the need to fix accountability within Lanka for the alleged war crimes, he said, "It is very moving when any member talks about the manner in which human being were treated, how human rights were violated. We cannot adjudicate about the truth. we have emphasised that accountability must take place. The only difference was whether the accountability should be enforced from outside or should come from inside." "When accountability comes from within then there is greater chance of sustainability of that accountability," he opined. The AIADMK today urged India to change its Sri Lanka policy and branded Colombo as an "enemy" of the Tamils. "It is time the Lanka-centric approach of the external affairs ministry is changed to a Tamil welfare-centric approach," AIADMK leader V. Maitreyan said. The AIADMK's V Maitreyan lashed out at the government for not doing anything for the people of Tamil origin living in Lanka. "The UPA doesn't understand the country, and it will remain so until justice is meted out to the Tamils," he said. He said there was "a general perception" that the Indian foreign ministry was run by diplomats "whose mindset needs to be changed". Maitreyan placed in the house a report by Human Rights Watch on sexual violence in Sri Lanka and a CD of a Channel 4 documentary on human rights abuses in that country. He also submitted photographs of the 12-year-old son of the late Tamil Tigers chief Velupillai Prabhakaran who is said to have been captured and shot dead in cold blood by the Sri Lankan military. Maitreyan alleged that there was no accountability to the "war crimes" committed in Sri Lanka during the final phase of the war that crushed the Tamil Tigers in May 2009. Echoing much of what Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalitha has stated earlier, the AIADMK MP insisted that Sri Lanka was in no position to probe the alleged "war crimes". "A country which does not have an independent judiciary cannot investigate itself." He urged India to move a single-line resolution in the UN condemning the "genocide" of Tamils in Sri Lanka and sought an economic embargo against Colombo. CPI leader D Raja also lashed out at the government for colluding with the Rajapakse government on structural genocide of the Tamils. External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said the government has provided maximum humanitarian assistance. "It is a matter of our consideration, concern and a matter of humanitarian nature. I want to share with the House that we have provided assistance to end the pain the agony in Sri Lanka, we have provided maximum humanitarian assistance," Khurshid said in the House. The issue of war crimes committed by the Lankan government was re-ignited after pictures of Prabhakaran's son before he was killed by the country's army were made public.

ethnic conflict. It is blindfolded by the Lankan President. The Lankan constitution discriminates against minority Tamils," Maitreyan said. "As far as we Tamils are concerned, Sri Lanka is an enemy

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US Senate confirms Hagel as secretary of defence

WASHINGTON, FEB 27 :After a two month battle by a group of Republican senators opposing his nomination, the US Senate Tuesday confirmed former Republican senator Chuck Hagelto be the next Secretary of Defense by a vote of 58-41. Hagel is set to be sworn into office later Wednesday, more than a month after he was first nominated by President Barack Obama. Republicans opposed Hagel's nomination, citing concerns about his approach to Iran, his views on Israel and what many saw as a lackluster performance during his confirmation hearings. A group of senators asked US President Barack Obama to withdraw Hagel is a former Army infantry man who was awarded two Purple Hearts during the Vietnam War. He will be the first enlisted man to become Secretary of Defense. Hagel takes the reins from outgoing Secretary Leon Panetta, who served as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) for four years, before taking over as Secretary of Defense in 2011. Hagel assumes the post just three days before massive, mandatory acrossthe-board budget cuts are scheduled to go into effect, which could force hundreds of thousands of defense layoffs and dangerously erode the US military according to Pentagon officials.

Nuclear talks end on positive note, says Iran

ALMATY: Negotiations between Iran and six world powers at Kazakh city of Almaty concluded here on Wednesday with Iranian negotiator Saeed Jalili terming the talks as a "positive" and more "realistic" than previous ones. The talks between UK, US, France, Russia, China, Russia and Germany (the P5+1) and Iran began yesterday in Kazakhstan's biggest city Almaty after June 2012 when they had ended without any breakthrough. Jalili said that the talks were a "positive step" and the world leaders appeared more realistic than in earlier nuke negotiations, reported the BBC. Technical experts for each side will meet in Istanbul in the guise of a "peaceful" atomic energy programme. have revealed that Iran is developing a second way to a nuclear weapons capability by operating a plant that could produce plutonium. According to the Telegraph, the images showed that Iran has activated the Arak heavy-water production plant. Heavy water is needed to operate a nuclear reactor that can produce plutonium, which could then be used to make a bomb. Inspectors from the IAEA were unable to visit the facility since August 2011 and Iran has refused repeated requests for information about the site, which is 150 miles south-west of Tehran.

Hagel from consideration, and then managed to delay the confirmation vote in an unprecedented filibuster against the nomination.

Obama calls Mursi ahead of Kerry's Cairo visit

WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama has called up his Egyptian counterpart Muhammad Mursi ahead of American Secretary of State John Kerry's visit to Cairo on March 2. In his telephonic conversation, Obama welcomed Morsy's commitment to serving as a President for all Egyptians, including women and people of all faiths, a White House statement said yesterday. The US President also emphasised Morsy's responsibility to protect the democratic principles that the Egyptian p e o p l e fought hard to secure. The two leaders also discussed Egypt's economic situation and the importance of implementing reforms that have b r o a d support and will promote long-term growth, said the statement. "The two Presidents discussed regional security, and President Obama welcomed Egypt's continued role in advancing regional peace and maintaining the ceasefire in Gaza," it added. John Kerry, during his Egypt visit, will meet with government and opposition leaders, besides members of civil society, to build their democracy strong and promote economic stability and prosperity, the statement said.

March to discuss the latest proposals after which another round of negotiations will be held in April in Almaty. International powers suspect Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons' ambitions under

Iran denies the claim saying that its nuke policy is solely for civilian purposes. Meanwhile, reports emerged today of Iran having an alternative way to develop nuclear bomb. atellite images

Parties may struggle to form government in Italy

ROME:A centre-left group of parties appears to have the best shot at forming a coalition government in Italy after an inconclusive national election, but the challenge is steep and comes amid public anger over austerity measures. If Italian parties fail to form a governing coalition, new elections would be required, causing more uncertainty and a leadership vacuum, and that possibility rattled financial markets across Europe yesterday. In early today trading in Milan, the FTSE MIB rebounded 0.5 per cent even though the country had to pay higher borrowing costs in a pair of bond auctions. The index has a long way to go to recoup the previous day's 4.9 per cent fall though. Pier Luigi Bersani and his centreleft allies appeared yesterday to have won a narrow victory in the Lower House of parliament, while the Senate looks split with no party in control. Silvio Berlusconi, the former Italian premier whose centre-right coalition did better than expected, is a key player since his coalition is now the second-biggest bloc in the upper chamber. Beppe Grillo, whose 5 Star Movement capitalised on a wave of voter disgust with the ruling political class, had a surprisingly strong showing. His bloc of seats in Parliament could prove crucial in making any coalition government viable. The two-day election on Sunday and Monday also was a clear rejection of the previous technocratic government led by Mario Monti. That government enacted wide-ranging reforms to the budget and the economy. Though its borrowing rates have fallen in financial markets, the cost to Italians has been high, with Italy mired in recession and unemployment on the rise. Berlusconi has already ruled out an alliance with Monti, his predecessor, whom he blamed for driving Italy deeper into recession. Bersani said he was not opening talks with any potential partners until he submits his program to Italy's president, who taps a candidate to form a government.

Strauss-Kahn fails to ban 'half-man half-pig' book

LONDON: A lawsuit filed by former International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn in France has been rejected that sought to ban the publication of a book written by his ex-lover. Beauty And Beast, written by Marcela Iacub, outlines account of her affair with the former French politician. According to the BBC, Strauss-Kahn had complained that he was "horrified" by the book. Although it can now be published, the book will have to include an insert, and Iacub and her publisher must pay 50,000 euros (43,100) in damages. Iacub does not name Strauss-Kahn in her book, but has publicly stated that he is the protagonist, whom she describes as "half man, half pig". StraussKahn told the judge that the book was a 'violation of the intimacy of private life'. His lawyers demanded that the book be banned or, failing that, an insert be added to each of the 40,000 copies of the first print-run, which had been due to go on sale on Wednesday. They did not provide details on what they wanted the insert to say, the report said.

Pak's Indian High Commission expenses amongst highest in world

ISLAMABAD: With rapid depreciation of the exchange rate and escalating living costs in world capitals, the government of Pakistan spent a whopping Rs 9.8 billion on its foreign missions last year, with the Indian mission in New Delhi being amongst the highest in world. Official documents revealed that over the past six fiscal years, Pakistan's 121 missions abroad registered a 72 percent increase in expenses, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs incurring cumulative expenditures worth Rs 48.8 billion, reports The Express Tribune. Foreign Office spokesperson Moazam Ali Khan linked the sudden increase in expenditures of foreign missions abroad with skyrocketing inflation across the globe. Khan said that foreign missions abroad continued to keep expenditures to a minimum, justifying the sharp increase by recalling that a few years ago one US dollar was equivalent to approximately 62 Pakistani rupees. Pakistan's mission in New Delhi was reported to be the most expensive in South Asia. Islamabad's diplomatic office in New Delhi spent Rs 192 million in the fiscal year 2007-08. Meanwhile, Pakistan's mission in New York spent Rs 138.2 million in the same fiscal year, which was Rs 54 million less than New Delhi. In fiscal year 2008-09, the New Delhi High Commission expenses jumped to a startling Rs271 million compared to the Pakistan High Commission in New York, which spent Rs124 million during the same year.

ECONOMY

Central team to assess drought situation in Maharashtra

NEW DELHI, FEB 27: An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) is currently visiting Maharashtra to assess the drought situation in the state.The team is being led by a Joint Secretary (National Horticulture Mission) in the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation - Sanjeev Chopra - and has members from other concerned Ministries / Departments. The team's assessment will be placed before the Empowered Group of Ministers for effective management of drought and related issues which is likely to meet the next week. Maharashtra is witnessing drought during the current Rabi season, and this drought spell was preceded by drought during Rabi 2011-12 and Kharif-2012. The Central government has already approved Rs. 574.71 crore and Rs. 778.09 crore to Maharashtra from National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for mitigating drought situation during Rabi-2011-12 and Kharif-2012 respectively. Deficit rainfall in western Maharashtra and Marathwada throughout the 2012 monsoon resulted in less availability of soil moisture and water for irrigation. Poor rainfall has affected the storage in all the irrigation projects in the drought-affected region. Live storage in all the dams has rapidly depleted in three divisions viz. Nashik, Pune and Aurangabad. The water storage in Jayakwadi, the biggest dam in Maharashtra, has negligible live storage. The poor rainfall and consequent low water storage have reduced area coverage under Rabi crops, especially jowar. While normal area under Rabi is 58,60 lakh ha, sowing has been done only in 45.27 lakh ha (77%) this year. According to the final paisewari (crop cutting estimates), total number of kharif villages where the crop loss is more than 50% was 7896. The provisional Rabi paisewari declared on 21st January 2013 shows 3905 villages as having crop loss above 50%. This number is likely to increase in the final paisewari figures. Water is being made available to people through private and Government tankers. 441 cattle camps have been opened where 3,39,779 cattle are accommodated.

NEW DELHI: Early conclusion of the stalled Doha Round of talks for achieving a global trade deal should ensure that the interest of developing and least developed countries is served, the government said today. Differences between rich and developing nations on issues like subsidies in agriculture and fisheries, tariff cuts in industrial goods and market access for services have been a stumbling block in the conclusion of WTO's Doha talks, which started in the Qatari capital in 2001. "India is of the view that any early outcome of the negotiations should invariably address issues of interest

India's inflation Early Doha Round conclusion to address interest of LDCs may fall to 6.2-6.6 percent in March
Economic Survey 2013
to the developing countries, especially the least developed countries (LDCs) and the small vulnerable economies," the Economic Survey for 2012-13 said. It said that the Eighth Ministerial Meeting of the WTO which was held in December 2011 in Geneva provided political guidance to the members to resolve the issues involved. However, there was no significant progress in 2012. "Efforts are being made for an early harvest on some issues in time for the Ninth Ministerial Conference (MC9) of the WTO to be held in December 2013," the Survey said. It also said that India and most of the developing countries want issues of market access and trade facilitation to be balanced with developmental issues such as duty free quota, free market access for LDCs and acceptance of the modalities for reducing cotton subsidies. On food security, the G33 group of countries, which is a coalition of 46 developing countries, including India, has tabled a proposal in the WTO last year which seeks for an amendment to certain provisions to allow developing countries greater flexibility in their public stock holding operations for food security purposes. "The issue of food security is very important for India and any concession on the trade facilitation front needs to be balanced by acceptance of the G33 proposal in any package deal for MC9," it added. Further, it said that India is also carefully examining the proposal of the developed countries on expansion of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA). The US, European Union and Japan have proposed expansion of the ITA to increase the coverage of IT products on which customs duty would be bound at zero as well as expanding the number of signatory countries. NEW DELHI, FEB 27: Inflation is expected to fall in the range of 6.2 to 6.6 percent in March this year, helped by moderation in non-food manufacturing sector and global commodity prices, according to the Economic Survey 2012-13 released Wednesday. The core inflation based on the whole price index (WPI) has remained muted in the current financial year and declined to a three year low of 6.62 percent in January 2013. "The recent increase in onion prices in January 2012 and revision in diesel prices may put some pressure on headlineinflation. However, inflation is expected to continue the moderating trend," said the annual document presented in Parliament by Finance Minister P Chidambaram. Addressing a press conference after the release of the annual Economic Survey, Chief Economic Advisor to Finance Ministry Raghuram Rajan said high food inflation remain a worry for the policymakers. Unlike last year when the food price inflation was mainly driven by higher protein food items, this year the pressure has been mounting in cereals. The survey authored by Rajan points out that inflation has eased in almost all major advanced and emerging market economies in the current year. "The positive effect of continuous policy easing by the major advanced and developing countries could pose a higher risk to inflation expectations. However, in the short run, given weak growth sentiments, the impact of policy easing may not lead to a surge in inflation and inflation expectations may remain anchored around current target inflation rates," the Survey said. As per the World Bank, except for metals, most global commodity prices are expected to decline further in 2013 and 2014. "The impact of benign inflationary expectations internationally will have a moderating impact on domestic prices," it said.

Legal services clock a steady annual growth of 8.2%

NEW DELHI: Legal services in the country have been growing at a steady annual rate of 8.2 per cent from 2005-06 to 2011-12 and the profession consists of nearly 1.2 million registered advocates, the Economic Survey today said. "Legal services in the country have been growing at a steady annual rate of 8.2 per cent from 2005-06 to 2011-12... Every year approximately 60,000 to 70,000 law graduates join the legal profession. India is ranked 45th with a score of 4.5 in terms of judicial independence by the Global Competitiveness Report2012-13," said the Survey. As regards efficiency in the legal framework in settling disputes, India has improved its position from 64th rank in 2011-12 to 59th in 2012-13 with a score of 3.8, it added. India is regarded as one of the best Legal Process Outsourcing (LPO) destinations on account of the low cost of legal professionals (which is 50-80 per cent more cost competitive than USA and UK), geographical advantage (Indian Time Zone allows it to offer legal services round the clock), language proficiency, and the legal system which is inspired by those of USA and UK. This is also because the LPO industry in the country can make use of advanced means of communication technology, and legal support in the form of research document reviews, drafting of documents, making applications for patents and various paralegal and administrative services, it added. Through the free legal services available in country, more than 7.82 lakh persons have benefited during April 1 to October 31, 2012. Of this, more than 23,000 belong to the Scheduled Caste and about 20,000 persons are Scheduled Tribes. More than 37,000 women and 5,900 children have also benefited through these free services, it said. In addition, more than 54,000 Lok Adalats have settled 17.3 lakh cases during the same period. Under theNational Legal Services Authority ( NLSA), through the Paralegal Volunteers Project 73,555 PLVs have been trained in the country and have started functioning.

India slips to fourth slot in initiating anti-dumping cases

NEW DELHI: India slipped to fourth position in 2012 after topping a list of countries in terms of initiation of antidumping measures a year ago, the Economic Survey for 2012-13 said. "In 2011, India topped the list of countries initiating such investigations, but in 2012 (up to June) Brazil is at the top followed by Argentina and Canada. India, the US, and EU with seven investigations each are at fourth spot," it said. The survey, which was tabled by Finance Minister P Chidambaram in Parliament today, said that during April- December 2012-13, 10 fresh cases have been initiated by the Directorate General of Anti-dumping and Allied Duties (DGAD). The countries involved in these investigations are China, the European Union, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the USA, it said. Further, it said that anti-dumping investigations initiated by all countries, which hit a high in 2001, declined almost steadily till 2007. "They picked up once again in 2008 but started declining to reach a low in 2011. However, in 2012 they have again increased with 114 investigations (up to June) compared to 68 in 2011," it added. Unlike safeguard duties, which are levied in a uniform way, anti-dumping duties vary from product to product and from country to country. Countries initiate anti-dumping probes to check if domestic industry has been hurt because of a surge in below- cost imports. As a counter-measure, they impose duties under the multilateral WTO regime.

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India moves to 4th spot, Ashwin reaches career best W-Indies clean sweep Zimbabwe in ODI series
DUBAI: India moved up a rung to fourth in the ICC Test rankings for teams replacing Pakistan, while veteran Sachin Tendulkar jumped three places to be 17th in the batsmen's chart announced on Wednesday. Among the bowlers, off-spinner R Ashwin was rewarded for his match haul of 12 for 198 in the first Test as he rose to a career-best 11th. India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni charged up 15 places to 21st courtesy his maiden double hundred at Chennai. Other centurion of the Chennai Test Virat Kohli has gained 10 places and is now on a career-best 25th position. ST GEORGE: West Indies swept their oneday international series against Zimbabwe 3-0 after making comparatively heavy weather of what should have been a leisurely pursuit of 212 before reaching their target for the loss of five wickets. Darren Bravo's unbeaten 72 piloted the home team to victory, the lefthander earning both the man-of-the-match and man-of-the-series awards following on his maiden ODI hundred in the first match on Friday. Kieran Powell contributed 42 at the top of the order while the effort of young wrist-spinners Natsai M'Shangwe and debutant Tinotenda Mutombodzi offered some encouragement for the Zimbabweans ahead of the two T20 fixtures to be played at the weekend in Antigua. Mutombodzi removed Ramnaresh Sarwan caught-and-bowled with just his third delivery in senior international cricket and also accounted for Powell to a catch at long-on. There were a few moments of anxiety for the West Indies when the dismissal of Narsingh Deonarine by Hamilton Masakadza was followed by the running out of Kieron Pollard for a duck without facing a ball to leave the home side at 121 for four. Skipper Dwayne Bravo steadied the innings in partnership with his younger brother and it was left to wicketkeeper-batsman Denesh Ramdin to accompany Disciplined work by the West Indies in the field had restricted Zimbabwe to 211 for nine after the visitors chose to bat first again. The home side's bowlers kept wayward deliveries to a minimum and reaped the reward against the Zimbabweans, a couple of whom got decent starts but weren't able to carry on as occurred in the second ODI on Sunday when three got past the 50-run mark. Playing his first match of the series in place of all-rounder Andre Russell, left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul was the most successful of the Caribbean bowlers, claiming three for 40 off his 10-over allotment. His dismissal of Zimbabwean captain Brendan Taylor (39) proved crucial installing the tourists' efforts and the Guyanese player added the wickets of Malcolm Waller and Regis Chakabva to complete a satisfying morning's work.At the top of the order, Vusi Sibanda promised a substantial innings, but yet again failed to carry on from a good start, falling to fast bowler Tino Best for 41.

State wrestling team leaves for nationals

State Indian Style Wrestling team before their departure for nationals at Jammu on Wednesday. JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Indian wrestling Association on Wednesday named its state team for participation in the All India Invitational Championship and Bharat Kesari title to be held at Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh from February 28 to March three. Earlier, the selected wrestlers underwent a coaching camp and screening process of the State Sports Council. Soon after the final selection, the team left for the venue. The team is comprised of seven wrestlers in as many weight categories. The Team: Sachin Kumar (51 kg Samba), Shami (55 kg, Jammu), Rohit Kumar (60 kg, Jammu), Aniyat Ali (66 kg, Jammu), Rakesh Kumar (74 kg, Jammu), Gopal Sharma (84 kg, Jammu), Sujjan Ali (96 kg, Jammu). Mulkh Raj Sharma (coach), Prem Kumar (Manager) and Bansi Lal Tidyal (technical official). Meanwhile, the president of J&K Indian Style Wrestling Association thanked the Sports Council for the helping hand. He announced that the gold winner in this event will be awarded with Rs 31,000 while the silver medalist will be honored with Rs 11,000 by the Association.

South Africa consolidated their position on the top of the Test rankings after a thumping victory over Pakistan in the third and the final Test at Centurion. There was no other change in the top 10 of the

bowlers' table, which is headed by South Africa's Dale Steyn followed by his teammate Vernon Philander. Hashim Amla continued to lead the Test batsmen chart followed by Australian skipper Michael Clarke.

AIBA denies approving IABF constitution

NEW DELHI: Threatening the IABF with an extended spell of suspension, the International Boxing Association (AIBA) has rejected the barred body`s claim of getting approval for its amended constitution, calling it a "work in progress" for the time being. "The IABF constitution, which was completely revised by the AIBA Legal Department, was only so far sent to the AIBA EC Member from India, Mr Kishen Narsi, on February 11, 2013," AIBA President Ching Kuo Wu said in a letter to India`s IOC member Randhir Singh. "The constitution is still a work in progress and is subject to further consultation between AIBA and the relevant parties in India," he added. The statement came after the IABF claimed that its amended constitution has got the world body`s nod. The IABF was left flummoxed with Secretary General Rajesh Bhandari, who had claimed of getting AIBA`s approval for the constitution, saying that it is a bolt from the blue. "The letter which the AIBA sent to Mr Narsi clearly stated that the constitution had been approved and we could get back to them to seek clarifications if there were any doubts," he said. "I am very surprised with this development," he added. Meanwhile, the AIBA also warned the IABF against going ahead with a Special General Meeting to adopt the constitution in March.

Usain Bolt to run at Paris meet

MADRID: Usain Bolt, holder of six Olympic gold medals, will take part in the 200-meter race at the July 6 Diamond League meet as part of his preparation for August's world championships in Moscow. The Jamaican runner will face France's Christophe Lemaitre, the current European 100m champ, in the final race of the event, organizers said. The two men competed against other in the 200m at the 2011 world championships in Daegu, South Korea, where Bolt won and Lemaitre came in third. Bolt, 26, became the only man to win both the 100m and 200m at successive Olympic Games when he took the gold medals last August in London. "With Bolt, we know that we will easily fill the Stade de France," the head of the Paris Diamond League meeting, Laurent Boquillet, said on Tuesday. Organizers will pay the Jamaican sprinter $300,000 for taking part, Boquillet said, describing the fee as standard for a runner of Bolt's caliber.

Customs and Central Excise shines in TT

JAMMU: The Customs and Central Excise won both singles and doubles titles in the table tennis event of the ongoing Annual Sports Meet of Centre Government employees, organized by Central Government Employees Welfare Coordination Committee (CGEWCC) at IIIM Sports Complex, on Wednesday. In the singles final, Ajay Thakral of Customs and Excise defeated Chand Raina of IIIM in Straight sets in the final. The score: 11-02, 11-04, 12-10. Later the doubles final was won by the pair of Ajay Thakral and S K Gupta, who trounced the duo of Kuldeep and Sat Pal Rawat, again from Customs and Excise 2-1 (1104, 08-11, 11-07) sets. Meanwhile, the badminton event of the ongoing meet shall start tomorrow at RRL School indoor sports complex. The table tennis competition held under the supervision of Committee members, Ashok Chada, B S Bhan, PS Jamwal, Shashi Jamwal, Sunil Chakoo and Anoop Magotra. Caption: (Customs and Central Excise team poses after winning both singles and doubles events of table tennis competition at Jammu on Wednesday)

Ronaldo's double dumps Barca out of King's Cup

BARCELONA: Cristiano Ronaldo continued his fine goal scoring record at the Nou Camp with a brace as Real Madrid beat Barcelona 3-1 to go through to the final of the King's Cup 4-2 on aggregate. The Portuguese hit a first half penalty and then knocked in a rebound after the break as Real took full advantage of their counter-attacks. Raphael Varane headed the third after 68 minutes while Jordi Alba got a late consolation. Ronaldo has now scored in his last six visits to the Catalan capital and came out on top in his personal battle with Lionel Messi, who was largely anonymous in the game. The Argentine, however, has the chance to respond when the pair meets again in the league at the weekend. Jose Mourinho chose Varane, who did so well in the first leg, ahead of Pepe to partner Sergio Ramos in the heart of the Madrid defence while finally there was no space for the rejuvenated Kaka with Angel Di Maria starting on the right wing. Barca were hoping for a penalty of their own moments later but the referee waved away appeals for a foul by Alvaro Arbeloa on Cesc and it showed how the home side were becoming more frustrated at their inability to create clear-cut chances. Real were defending well while they continued to threaten through Ronaldo counter-attacks. Barca did win a free-kick on the edge of the area for a foul by Arbeloa after on Iniesta for which he was booked after 37 minutes and Messi's shot went a whisker past the post. Barca attacked with renewed vigour after the break but it was Real who scored again after 57 minutes. The Catalan side looked stunned and lost their shape at the back as Real cut them apart. Varane got their third as he outjumped the Barca defence at a corner to head in off the crossbar.

Ukraine to bid for Euro 2020

KIEV: Euro 2012 host Ukraine has announced it would bid for the right to stage some Euro 2020 games. The tournament will be spread across 13 stadiums in 13 countries, UEFA said last month, with the aim being to reduce the economic burden on any single country. There was no word on which hosting package the country might apply for. UEFA president Michel Platini said last month that interested nations may apply for group games plus one knockout round fixture or the final plus the two semifinals or both. In June, Kiev, Donetsk, Kharkiv and Lviv played host to Euro 2012 matches. Donetsk mayor Alexander Lukyanchenko claims the 52,000-seater Donbass Arena would fight with the Ukrainian capital for the right to stage Euro 2020 matches. Others to have expressed interest include Munich, Cardiff's Millennium Stadium and Bulgaria's Vasil Levski Stadium in Sofia. Rome, Berlin, Istanbul and Madrid have also been mooted as possible venues. Euro 2020 will feature 24 teams, the second to do so after Euro 2016 in France.

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